secondary student handbook 7th -12th handbo… · make-up work for lab-type activities will be...

SECONDARY STUDENT HANDBOOK7th -12th

7TH-12TH STUDENT HANDBOOK 2

Table of ContentsATTENDANCE.....................................................................................................................................4

TARDY ...............................................................................................................................................4

CHECKING IN OR OUT OF SCHOOL ......................................................................................................4

EDUCATIONAL TRIPS………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….……………..….5

UCS POLICY FOR ABSENCES AND MISSED WORK…………………………………………………………………..……….……5

COLLEGE VISITATION DAYS.................................................................................................................6

STUDENT DRIVING .............................................................................................................................6

ATTENDANCE & DRIVER'S LICENSE ELIGIBILITY…………………………………………………………………………………...6

DRIVER’S/LEARNER’S LICENSE CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE ..............................................................6

SELECTIVE SERVICE REGISTRATION ........................................................................................................7

VOTER REGISTRATION ........................................................................................................................7

UNIFORM POLICY/REQUIREMENTS……………………………………………………………………………………………………..7

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...8

SOCIAL EVENTS ...................................................................................................................................9

RULES FOR SOCIALS AND DANCES ......................................................................................................9

DANCE DRESS CODE ...........................................................................................................................9

STUDENT PROGRESS AND GRADE REPORTING……………………………………………………………………….……………9

VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN……………………………………………………………………………………….……..10

FAILING GRADES……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………11

PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS HIGH SCHOOL COLLEGE PREP……………………………………………………..……..11

POLICY ON MISSING WORK……………………………………………………………………………………………………….………11

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS…………………………………………………………………………………………….……………12

COLLEGE JOINT ENROLLMENT POLICY……………………………………………………………………………………….………12

ON-LINE CLASSES THROUGH GA VIRTUAL………………………………………………………………………………..………..12

SCHEDULE CHANGES/COURSE DROP OR ADD ...................................................................................13

ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT……………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………13

ACADEMIC POLICY AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES….………………………………………………………………..16

CONDUCT IN HALLS..........................................................................................................................16

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….17

EXAMS.............................................................................................................................................17


DISCIPLINE (GENERAL)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………17

UCS CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT PLAN………………………………………………………………………..……….………….18

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF UCS POLICIES…………………………………………………………………………………….19

DEMERITS…………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………….………………19

DETENTION......................................................................................................................................19

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION PROGRAM (ISS) .........................................................................................20

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) ..................................................................................................20

DISCIPLINE CODE GUIDELINES……………………………………………………………………………………………….…………. 20

SEARCH AND SEIZURE ........................................................................................................................24


Unity Christian SchoolSecondary 7th – 12th

ATTENDANCERegular attendance is necessary for success in school. Chronic absenteeism and excessivetardies will be referred to the principal for investigation.

Excused absences are for the following reasons: personal illness, death or illness in theimmediate family (immediate family is interpreted to mean parents, siblings, children,grandparents, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, or legal guardian), religious holidays,government-mandated absences, conditions which render attendance impossible orhazardous to health and safety, military service tests and physical examination, GeorgiaGeneral Assembly page service, and participation in educational activities.

TARDYMorning Arrival TardinessStudents who arrive late to school must first check in with the receptionist before going toclass. A student will receive 2 Demerits for each tardy. A pattern of excessive tardiness willresult in a meeting with the secondary principal.Tardy Time: 7:51 am

CHECKING IN OR OUT OF SCHOOL Students are to check-in with the receptionist when arriving at school any time after

7:50. Except in cases of doctor’s appointments or court appearances, late arrivals will be

treated as tardies. Students are to check out of school with the receptionist. Students who drive to school and wish to check out of school early are to bring a note

from the parent or guardian to the receptionist by 8:10, stating the reason anddeparture time; all notes will be verified. Students are not to leave campus until thereceptionist has called and verified approval with a parent.

Students checking out for medical reasons are to bring a doctor’s note when they returnto school.

Doctor’s offices will be called for verification. Altered or forged notes of any kind will result in disciplinary action. Checking in or out for unexcused reasons will be considered truancy and will result in a

grade of zero on all class work.


EDUCATIONAL TRIPSEducational Trips must meet the following five criteria:

Student is to be accompanied by parent or guardian. Student is to submit a written plan showing educational merit to the principal five days

in advance. Student is to submit a list of educational activities, objectives, and a project description

to the principal upon return to school. Trip limit is five days. Students must make up all work missed. Students must turn in all preassigned projects prior to trip.

Educational trips not sponsored by an entity or institution DO count against the 10-dayattendance rule. No educational absences are granted prior to or during exams. Educationalabsence forms may be picked up in front office and must be submitted to the principal 5 daysin advance of desired absence(s) date(s).

UCS POLICY FOR ABSENCES AND MISSED WORK Students who miss over 10 days during a semester are at risk of compromising course

credit for any course unless a physician’s statement is turned in to the receptionist ontime for all days in excess of the 10 days. Physician's notes should be turned in withinfive days after an absence-preferably the first day a student returns to school so thatteachers will have approval to assign make-up work.

For students who have received a short-term in-school or out-or-school suspension thefirst time ever at UCS, the days absent due to the suspension will not count toward the10-day limit. Students cannot make up missing assignments. All future suspensions willcount throughout his/her school career.

A student returning to school after an absence is to bring a written excuse signed by aparent/guardian telling why the student was absent. Notes will be verified by theprincipal’s office. The receptionist accepts excuses each morning beginning at 7:50.Students are to turn in excuses immediately upon arriving at school-before the tardybell rings.

Students who miss assignments due to EXCUSED absences have a maximum of 3 daysto complete and turn in the missed graded assignments. Failure to turn in theassignments within the 3 days results in a “0” recorded in the grade book. All missedassignments due to unexcused absences receive a “0” in the grade book. Middle schooland high school students are responsible for any prescheduled assignments such as atest or a project during an absence. Projects should be emailed to the teacher or sent tothe school on the due date to receive full credit, and students should be prepared totake missed tests on the day of return. Make-up work for lab-type activities will beexplained in course outlines. For extended consecutive absences over 5 days, the timeallowed for making up work will be determined administratively. A student will not beallowed to make up any work for an unexcused absence.


COLLEGE VISITATION DAYS Juniors and Seniors may visit a college if the College Day Form (available from the

secondary principal) is completed and approved three days in advance by thecounselor.

This will count as an excused absence. College visits are limited to two days per school year for Juniors and Seniors. All missed work must be made up. College visitation days will not count as unexcused absences provided students

return approved college documentation to the receptionist prior to 8:10 a.m. We encourage you to visit colleges on teacher in-service days and student holidays.

STUDENT DRIVINGStudents who have good attendance, good deportment, and who possess a valid driver licenseare permitted to drive a vehicle to school. All parking is limited to designated areas. Studentsmay not leave the campus for any reason during the school day without written permissionfrom a parent or guardian. No student will be permitted to leave the campus with anotherstudent unless parental permission is provided in writing from both parents. A copy of thestudent‘s driver’s license and vehicle registration information must be on file in the UCS recordsoffice.

ATTENDANCE AND DRIVER’S LICENSE ELIGIBILITYAccording to Georgia State Law (40-5-22; 2-2-701):

This code section requires a person younger than 18 who has not completed highschool (or has not received GED, a special diploma, or certificate of high schoolcompletion) to be in school and meet attendance requirements in order to obtainand keep a leaner’s permit or a driver’s licence.

The minor must have satisfied relevant attendance requirements for one academicyear prior to applying for a learner’s permit or driver’s license.

The minor is ineligible to receive a learner’s permit or driver’s license if the minorhas been suspended from school for certain discipline code violations: suspensionfrom school for threatening, striking, or causing bodily harm to a teacher or a schoolpersonnel; possession or sale of drugs or alcohol on school property; any sexualoffense prohibited under Chapter 6 of Title 16; or causing substantial physical orvisible bodily harm to or seriously disfiguring another person, including anotherstudent.

The minor who misses ten school days of unexcused absences will have his/herlearner’s license suspended or revoked by the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.

DRIVER’S/LEARNER’S LICENSE CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCEA certificate of attendance is required for all students under the age of 18 in order to get alearner’s and/or driver’s license. Confirmation that a student has successfully completed the


Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program is required for a student to receive his/her driver’slicense. These forms may be requested in the Registrar’s Office. The certificates of attendanceare good for only 30 days from the date they are notarized.

SELECTIVE SERVICE REGISTRATIONThe law requires that all males age 18 register for the Selective Service. Information on howto register may be obtained from the Guidance office.

VOTER REGISTRATIONAll students who are at least 18 years old may register to vote. Students who arenearing their 18th birthday can complete the registration form early if they wish,but they cannot vote until their 18th birthday. Registration forms are available inthe Guidance office to fill out and mail to the Floyd County registrar's office thatverifies eligibility.

UNIFORM POLICY/REQUIREMENTSWe are committed to excellence at Unity Christian School. We want this excellence to be seenin all aspects of our school, including the uniforms. We want our students to feel they are a partof something great, because they are. Just as athletic uniforms bring a sense of unity, pride andcommon goal to a team, so can school uniforms to a school.

Uniform ScheduleSchool Uniform----Polo shirt with crest logo (navy, gray, or burgundy) & khaki or navypants/shorts/skort should be worn M-Th.

Spirit Day----Friday dress will be spirit wear. Students must wear any UCS shirt and blue jeansor pants (with no holes), shorts or skirts in good condition (no shorter than 2” above knee),or UCS P.E. pants or shorts.

P.E.- Only UCS P.E. uniforms may be worn for P.E. – 7th-12th grades will change for P.E. each day.

UCS will have one Free Dress Day per month. Students with no dress code violations mayparticipate in Free Dress Day.

Please see the uniform details below or refer to the uniform brochure with photos that isavailable in the Admissions Office and on our school website.

P.E. Uniform Navy long or short-sleeved Unity t-shirt or dri-fit shirt Navy hooded sweatshirt when needed Burgundy shorts, sweatpants, or athletic pants Athletic shoes in good condition with backs – Must have athletic shoes for gym floor.


Regular Wear for Boys Polo shirts with logo (navy, burgundy, and ash gray) Navy or khaki pants or shorts (pleated or flat-front styles) no exterior pockets Belt must be worn every day; shirt must be tucked in at all times. Athletic shoes (same as P.E.) or conservative school shoe (brown, tan, navy, black or

gray). Shoes must be in good condition with backs. Boots must be covered by pant legs. Navy sweater/sweater vest with logo (optional)

Regular Wear for Girls Polo shirts with logo (navy, burgundy, and ash gray) Navy or khaki pants, Capris, or shorts (pleated or flat-front styles) no exterior pockets Navy or khaki skirt or skort (no greater than 2 inches above knee) Belt must be worn whenever pants have loops. Athletic shoes (same as P.E.) or conservative school shoe (brown, tan, navy, black, or

gray). Shoes must be in good condition with backs. No boots with shorts, skorts, or skirts. Boots must be covered by pant legs. Navy sweater/sweater vest with logo (optional)

Jackets, Sweaters and Sweatshirts All jackets and sweaters worn on campus must be solid navy, blue, black, brown, or gray

(logo or embroidery optional) All sweatshirts must be Unity spirit wear (purchasable in UCS Development Office).

JewelryAny jewelry item or display that distracts from the educational process is prohibited.

Boys: no earrings Girls: 1-2 sets of earrings Studded and spiked bracelets, necklaces, and other items are prohibited Long chains and overly heavy or jagged pendants are prohibited.

HairHair styles are to be non-distracting in color, cut, and length. (Examples: No Mohawks, No skinheads, NO extreme hair color, or inconsistent hair dye, etc.) All boys' hair must not be belowthe top of the collar in length or cover the student’s eyes. Boys cannot have any facial hair andmust be clean-shaven.

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONSThe administration retains full discretion in determining the appropriateness of school dressand its effect on the instructional environment. The school will follow the following proceduresto correct students in violation of uniform policy:


First offense: Parents will be notified through RenWeb. Student will receive 2 demerits.Second offense: Student will receive 2 demerits and will be asked to call parent to bringcorrect uniform item.

*Any uniform violation in a month results in forfeiture of the Free Dress Day given byadministration for that month.

SOCIAL EVENTSSocial events are primarily for the benefit of UCS students. The school reserves the right torefuse admittance to any school event. Students who wish to invite non-students todances and other social events at UCS must sign up the date with the sponsoring advisortwo weeks before the event. All dates must adhere to UCS policies.

RULES FOR SOCIALS AND DANCESAdmittance to school functions is limited to the 1st hour of the event. Students will be asked toleave for inappropriate behavior. If a student is asked to leave, they must leave the premises,and a parent will be contacted. When students exit the facility, they may not return. Anystudent in In School Suspension, Out of School Suspension, or under school discipline may notattend a social function. High School socials are for students who are considered to be of highschool age; dates over the age of 20 will not be admitted.

DANCE DRESS CODEThere is a standard for appropriate apparel for UCS formal and semi-formal events. Attire mustbe within the boundaries of the standard in order to be considered acceptable. Formal dressmust be approved by the high school area director.

STUDENT PROGRESS AND GRADE REPORTING Unity Christian School seeks the most indicative and effective evaluation of progress

available. Assessments are intended to be age appropriate, consistent within sectionsof a grade, and grow with the student. Each teacher is charged with designingassessments for his or her class.

Grades are determined based on achievement of stated learning objectives andperformance in the subject. The criteria for evaluation includes, but is not limited to,written and oral classroom assignments, homework, tests, quizzes, projects, and finalexams. Learning objectives may legitimately include such things as followingdirections, proper format, and other procedural considerations.

Core subjects have a comprehensive final exam at the end of each semester. Progress in academic subjects is indicated using a numeric grading system based on a

one hundred-point scale. Report Cards are emailed every six weeks to show studentprogress. Progress reports are sent at the end of the third week of the six-week period.The grading scale is as follows:


NOTE: Grade Point Averages (GPAs) are used for class rank and honor rolls and arecommunicated to colleges and universities for scholarship purposes. The GPA iscalculated by the average at the end of each semester, not yearly averages. Transfergrades from a non-accredited institution will not be factored into GPA calculation.Beginning with grade nine, all core subjects whether passed or failed are included inthe computation. Core subjects that are calculated into Unity’s GPA include English,Math, Science, History, Bible, and Foreign Language. Grades for Advanced PlacementClasses are scaled to equate course difficulty and are awarded an extra weight of 1.0.

VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN The UCS Valedictorian must meet the following criteria: Highest Academic GPA Exemplary Discipline Record Attended UCS all four years of high school

The UCS Salutatorian must meet the following criteria: Second highest Academic GPA

Grade Code Average GPA

A 100-93 4.0

A- 92-90 3.7

B+ 89-86 3.3

B 85-83 3.0

B- 82-80 2.7

C+ 79-76 2.3

C 75-73 2.0

C- 72-70 1.7

D 69-68 1.0

F 67-0 0

I - Incomplete NA NA

P - Passing 68 NA


Exemplary Discipline Record Attended UCS all four years of high school

In the case of a GPA tie in consideration for Valedictorian or Salutatorian, UCS will calculatecumulative numerical average, based on semester averages, to break the tie.

FAILING GRADES Once a student is failing a core academic subject at any 6-weeks grading period, the

student will be placed on Academic Probation. The following will take place: There will be a meeting with student, parent(s), and teacher(s) to make a plan

of improvement. The student will be required to attend ASA the day(s) the teacher(s) of the

failed subject area(s) is assigned to ASA. Note: Students who participate inextra-curricular activities are required to attend ASA 3 days per week. (seeAcademic Policy and Extra-curricular Activities)

If a student fails any subject required for graduation, he or she will be required toretake that class during subsequent high school years or during summer school.

PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS HIGH SCHOOL COLLEGE PREP Averages for promotion in yearlong classes are determined by the average of the first

and second semester grades. A student must successfully complete a minimum of 5 Carnegie Units to be considered

a sophomore, a minimum of 10 Carnegie Units to be considered a junior, and aminimum of 15 Carnegie Units to be considered a senior. In order to graduate, astudent must complete satisfactorily a minimum of 24 Carnegie Units.

POLICY ON MISSING WORK If a student has incomplete work at the end of the semester, a zero will be given for the

work and the final average will be computed. If prior administrative approval wasgiven for the incomplete work, the grade will be changed when and if the work iscompleted (deadlines apply).

Students who miss assignments due to EXCUSED absences have a maximum of 3 daysto complete and turn in the missed graded assignments. Failure to turn in theassignments within the 3 days results in a “0” recorded in the grade book. All missedassignments due to unexcused absences receive a “0” in the grade book. Middleschool and high school students are responsible for any prescheduled assignments suchas a test or a project during an absence. Projects should be emailed to the teacher orsent to the school on the due date to receive full credit, and students should beprepared to take missed tests on the day of return.

Students who miss assignments due to absences for sporting, fine arts, or academiccompetitions are required to turn in all missed assignments, including homework, andtake missed quizzes and tests the day they return to school.


Students who have more than 10 absences during a semester, excused or unexcused,are in jeopardy of failing the course and not receiving credit. Special consideration willbe given to students with medical issues such as life-threatening illnesses, surgeries,mental illness, extended illness, etc. Credit will not be given in courses that exceed 10absences without approval from the academic committee.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSCollege Prep DiplomaSubject Carnegie Units RequiredBible 4 UnitsLiterature 4 UnitsHistory 4 UnitsMathematics 4 UnitsScience 4 UnitsForeign Language 2 UnitsHealth/PE 1 UnitFine Arts 1 Unit

Total 24 Units

COLLEGE JOINT ENROLLMENT POLICYStudents participating in joint enrollment must meet all rules, regulations, and guidelinesoutlined in the following: Georgia Board of Education Rule 160-4-2-34, Postsecondary DualCredit Program Regulations Directory (GaDOE & Ga. Student Finance Commission), and UCSJoint Enrollment Guidelines and Procedures.

UCS Guidelines and Procedures Students must meet with the UCS Counselor and obtain a UCS Joint Enrollment Form. Students must complete the Joint Enrollment Form including all required signatures

and return it to the UCS Counselor. To receive credit on the UCS transcript, students must wait for approval from the

counselor BEFORE enrolling in any off campus class. UCS will accept only the official transcript grade sent by the Joint Enrollment School. Grading on the UCS transcript will reflect UCS grading scale and class weight. Joint

Enrollment classes are not given extra weight.

ON-LINE CLASSES THROUGH GA VIRTUALHigh school students are allowed to take courses through the GA Virtual On-line Academy. GAVirtual is an accredited on-line school. Pre-approval is required through the GuidanceCounselor or Principal. To be approved, students should be in good academic standing andself motivated.


SCHEDULE CHANGES/COURSE DROP OR ADDBecause much time and effort goes into the process of scheduling students for classes,schedule changes requested by students will be reviewed but rarely granted. Occasionally,however, the need to drop or add a class is justified. Legitimate reasons for requesting aschedule change are:

The course has been taken and passed. The student is incorrectly placed in the class, and his or her ability level requires a

change of schedule. The schedule contains a course obviously inappropriate for the student's grade

level. The student needs another class to meet graduation requirements.

When a change is needed on the student's schedule, the student should see the GuidanceCounselor or Registrar and complete a Drop/Add form. The student must remain in hisscheduled classes until the requested change has been approved and processed. It is thestudent's responsibility to return any textbooks/materials to teachers of courses dropped.A class can only be dropped or added within the first two weeks of the course.

Some common requests for schedule changes that will NOT be approved are: Requests for change of teacher. Requests to move into classes with friends or out of classes with students one

"doesn't like." Requests to change the time of day a class is scheduled.

ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT PLAGIARISM POLICY

Writing skills drive the work students do at the university level and form a crucialcomponent of most, if not all, professional jobs. Teaching students how to writeeffectively is one of the primary objectives of the UCS English Department that reachesacross the curriculum. To accomplish this objective, teachers will stress the importanceof writing as a process, giving credit to all influencers of one’s writing. The Faculty atUnity Christian School is committed to teaching students how to become ethical users ofinformation and ideas. It is our intention to educate our students in the researchprocess, mechanics of writing, the proper documentation, and to hold studentsaccountable for honest work. Whether an assigned project is in visual, written, orspoken format, students are expected to reference accurately all sources of informationconsulted for the project.

Plagiarism or any academic cheating is regarded as a serious offense and will not betolerated. It is an expectation that all departments and students adhere to and enforcethe UCS Plagiarism Policy. The Faculty and Staff of Unity Christian School believe it isimportant to have a clear policy concerning plagiarism and academic cheating. All high


school students sign a Plagiarism Honor Code indicating their understanding of thepolicy.

Definition: Plagiarism is the unauthorized use or close imitation of the language andthoughts of another author and the representation of them as one’s own original work,as by not crediting the author. (dictionary.com)

Forms of plagiarism include but are not limited to:o Submitting another writer’s papero Using copy and paste (from found sources)o Neglecting necessary quotation markso Paraphrasing without citing a sourceo Confusing borrowed material with your own ideas

UCS distinguishes between two different degrees of plagiarism. They are defined as follows: Intentional Plagiarism includes but is not limited to: Obvious, substantial, verbatim reproduction of information Copying and pasting from sources without citing the source Fabrication of sources, falsification of page numbers, or other deliberate

misdocumentation Submission of others’ work as the students’ own. This applies to uncited

paraphrasing of another’s ideas as well as verbatim use of another’s words. (Othersmay refer to either scholarly sources, online “cribbed” essays, or the work of parentsor other students.)

Technical Plagiarism includes but not limited to: Poor paraphrasing, amounting to translating another’s work Improper citation or documentation that misrepresents a source Insufficient citation of factual information not held to be common knowledge

(common knowledge is defined as facts readily available from a variety ofsources)

Poor integration of direct quotations with the student’s own writing

Determination of Plagiarism:With the use of search engines and Turnitin.com, teachers will be able, in most cases, toprovide documented evidence of plagiarism. A committee of teachers shall be established, asneeded, to review suspected cases. The purpose of the committee will be to determine thatthe evidence exists and which definition applies.

PENALTIES are prescribed below: Academic Consequences: Intentional Plagiarism

o 1st Offense:


Behavior is documented in RenWeb Conference with student, parent, and teacher and/or counselor “0” in grade book and student must re-do assignment under teacher

supervision (checking progress) with no credit given If the “0” causes the grade to drop below 70 the student is placed on

academic probation and must attend ASA 3 days a week.o 2nd Offense: Behavior is documented in RenWeb as 2nd offense Parent is contacted “0” in grade book and student must re-do the assignment with no credit

given Student is placed on academic probation and must attend ASA 3 days a week

o 3rd Offense: Behavior is documented in RenWeb as 3rd offense “0” in grade book Parent contacted An official letter is put in student’s record which is sent to other institutions

when records are requested Technical Plagiarism

o 1st Offense: Behavior is documented in RenWeb Deduction of points as determined by the teacher, based on the severity and Number of occurrences in the assignment the plagiarism occurs Conference with student, parent, teacher and/or counselor

o 2nd Offense: Behavior is documented in RenWeb as 2nd offense “0” in grade book and student must re-do the assignment with no credit

given Student must set up a time with the teacher for whose assignment the

plagiarism occurred for tutorial help Parent contacted

o 3rd Offense: At this time the behavior will be considered “Intentional Plagiarism” and will

follow the academic and disciplinary consequences for “IntentionalPlagiarism.”

Disciplinary Consequences:In addition to the academic consequences, intentional plagiarism/academic cheatingmerits disciplinary consequences. Those are as follows:

o 1st Offense: Warning and explanation of future consequences if behavior continues

o 2nd Offense: Students are stripped of all positions in, but not limited to, the following:

Student CouncilNational Honor SocietyExtra-curricular Leadership Roles

o 3rd Offense: Three days OSS

ACADEMIC POLICY AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITESThe following academic policy governs the participation of students in extracurricular activitiesat Unity Christian School:

Eligibility – Full Status Any student with no average below 70 and no course failure at

the end of any grading period (6-weeks) is eligible to participate in the activityof his/her choice.

Probation – Partial Status Any student with an average below 70 or a course failure

at the end of any grading period (6-weeks) may participate in an extracurricularactivity if the following requirements are met:

o The student must attend After School Activity (ASA) provided by theschool for 3 days every week. ASA is provided 4 days a week, Monday-Thursday, 3:15-4:30. A teacher will be present to help with any needs orquestions. The student needs to be on time and stay the full hour. Noexceptions.

o No missing homework assignments

Ineligibility Status If the student does not meet the probation requirements (above) any week

following an unacceptable grading report, he/she is declared ineligible until thenext 6-weeks grading period and the student meets eligibility requirements.

If the student fails the same class for 2 consecutive 6-weeks, he/she is declaredineligible.

When a student is deemed ineligible, he/she is no longer eligible to participatein the extracurricular activity including practice time.

CONDUCT IN HALLS Students should walk in the halls. Students are not to run; talk loudly; push; or loiter between classes. Students will be assigned detention for misconduct in the halls.

Students should demonstrate respect and courtesy to others and themselves; No publicdisplays of affection.

Middle and High school students are not allowed in the Preschool-6th grade hallwaysduring the school day.

Middle and High School students are not allowed to use the downstairs primaryschool bathroom located in the stairwell across from Rooms 110 and 111.

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOLStudents may not enter the building before 7:30 a.m. Students wait in the locker hallway untiltime for homeroom. Homeroom tardy bell rings at 7:51 am. Students are not allowed towander the building before or after school. After the dismissal bell at 3:15 pm, students are towait in the locker hallway during carline. Students who are planning to go to ASA may reportthere. Student drivers may leave at 3:30 or when the “Student drivers may leave”announcement is made. At the end of carline at 3:45, any remaining 7th-12th grade studentswho are still waiting for rides should do so in the lobby.

EXAMSDuring exam week, most students will have two exams a day. There is one exam week persemester. A doctor’s excuse is required for absences during final exams. It is the student’sresponsibility to make up the exam at the convenience of the teacher; all exams must be madeup within one week unless there is permission from the principal. No exams will be givenearly. Re-exams are given to students whose overall average prior to the exam was passing,and as a result of the failed exam grade the student would fail the class. With a re-exam, thehighest grade that a student can earn in a class is 70.

*See Exam Schedule posted separately on school website.

DISCIPLINE (General)Although the punishment for some offenses is specific, no student or parent shouldautomatically expect to receive the minimum or maximum disciplinary action when he/she isinvolved in a problem. Disciplinary action may be determined on an individual basis based on awide range of variables such as, but not limited to, the age of the student, past record ofbehavior, student attitude, the severity of the infraction, and the severity of the problem as itexists in that particular setting. School administrators will exercise professional judgment inthese decisions. Administrators retain the right to treat each occurrence on an individual basiswithout creating a precedent in any future case and to suspend any disciplinary action that theydeem appropriate.

The types of consequences that will be used at UCS are, but are not limited to:

Loss of extracurricular privileges Classes-only restriction Detention ISS (In-school suspension)


OSS (Out-of-school suspension) Police referral and/or arrest

Actions leading to possible suspension or expulsion include, but are not limited to:Bullying/fighting/harassment; conviction of a felony; gambling; involvement in the occult;plagiarism/cheating; possession of a knife/firearm; premarital sexual activity;proclamation or acts of non-heterosexual orientation; stealing; use or possession ofalcoholic beverages, tobacco, drugs, or pornography; vandalism.

UCS CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT PLANThis plan does not cover aggressive behavior. In matters of disciplinary consequencesfor minor repetitive offenses, the Classroom Management Plan is the model forreporting and measuring consequences for behaviors.

The purpose of this plan is to provide a systematic and consistent structure for proactivelymanaging minor classroom behavior. The plan must include documentation, counseling,parental involvement, progressive discipline, and due process. Some offenses are toodramatic or severe to be handled by this simple rubric.

Areas covered by this plan: Disrupting class with minor infractions Talking too much or at the wrong time Eating or drinking in class without prior permission Sleeping in class

Sample Plan of Action for Repetitive Behavior 1st Offense Renweb/documentation Counsel with student (explain what he/she did wrong and how he/she can

correct the problem) Warn the student of the consequences of continued misbehavior.

2nd Offense Renweb/Documentation CONTACT THE PARENT preferably by phone, email is permissible Warn the student/parent of consequences

3rd Offense Renweb/Documentation Counsel with student - notify parent Principal will ASSIGN 1 DAY OF DETENTION as a minimum consequence

4th Offense Renweb/Documentation Counsel with student


Principal will ASSIGN 1 DAY OF DETENTION as a minimum consequence 5th Offense Refer to the principal Principal will confer with parents.

These offenses will result in progressively more severe discipline assigned by the Head ofSchool. Students who commit “shocking acts or aggressive behavior” may be sent to theoffice immediately. (Please see the Aggressive Behavior Rubric)

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF UCS POLICIES

Demerits

Demerits will be used to address dress code violations, class conduct & preparednessand tardiness.

Teachers will let students know if they have a dress code violation, and the student willreceive 2 demerits.

Students who are tardy to class or homeroom receive 2 demerits per violation. Students with 10 demerits will receive detention. Each subsequent penalty past 10 demerits will result in detention. Violations will be recorded in RenWeb. Demerits apply to the current semester only.

DetentionDetention is assigned as a method of discipline; no other punishment will besubstituted for detention. Having a job or being involved in athletics, band, or anyother extracurricular activity is no excuse for missing detention. The secondaryprincipal is in charge of detention.

Detention is held on scheduled days from 3:15-4:30. Detention is not negotiable. A student who misses detention for whatever reason will be assigned another

detention. Students who miss three detentions will be assigned 1 day of Out of School

Suspension. Suspended students cannot make up missed work. Students are required to be actively engaged in schoolwork during detention.

Failure to do so will be regarded as skipping. There is no talking allowed indetention.

No one can miss detention for any reason other than a doctor's appointment orcourt-ordered appearance during the detention time. A doctor's note or a courtsubpoena must be given to the detention teacher the first day back to school sothat doctor’s appointment time or court appearance time can be verified.

All athletes, band members, etc. must report to detention on the assigned dayregardless of game or practice. Teams dismissed early from school will NOT be


excluded from this rule.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION PROGRAM (ISS)The purpose of ISS is disciplinary. It serves to replace out-of-school suspension in lesssevere discipline cases. Only an administrator may assign ISS. Refusal to reportimmediately to ISS will result in five (5) days OSS with the student being required toreturn to school with a parent/guardian for a conference and then serving the originalISS assignment.

Students report to ISS at 8:00 a.m. on days assigned. Students in ISS are confined to onearea; they do not change classes or eat lunch with the student body. Students in ISScannot take part in or attend any school functions, including all athletic activities on or offcampus, classes, club meetings, field trips, etc. Violation of this rule will result inadditional days in ISS. All students in ISS remain at school for the entire day. Teacherssend students' work to the ISS coordinator. ISS work is monitored, and assistance isavailable if requested. Students are to make up the work that is taking place in theregular classes; students must work the entire time they are in ISS; and they must havesupplies and books each day in ISS. Students must have permission to speak or leavetheir seats for any reason. ISS students are not allowed to use the telephone. Days inattendance in ISS are not recorded as absences from school. Work is sent to theclassroom teacher for evaluation. Students are responsible for making that work up withindividual teachers. Note: Students are limited to 10 days of ISS per semester. Eachdiscipline code violation thereafter, which would normally result in ISS,will result in OSS.

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS)Students who are suspended out of school are not allowed to participate in or attend anyschool function during or after school, on or off campus. Students suspended out ofschool are NOT allowed to make up any work. Parents will be notified when a student issuspended and are required to come for a conference with the principal before thestudent is allowed to return to school. Please call the principal’s office for anappointment.

DISCIPLINE CODE GUIDELINESUnity Christian School does not tolerate Aggressive Behavior in any form. A UCSstudent is called to a higher standard of conduct. UCS students are accountable fortheir behavior on and off campus.

Severe cases will be referred to the Head of School office.

Rule 1: FightingFighting, physical attack, assault, taking part in arguments which lead to a fight, ordoing bodily harm to another student are included in this policy. Students who do


not stop immediately upon request subject themselves to a more severeschool punishment.

Peer mediation might be an option to resolve difficulties arising between oramong students depending upon the circumstances. To avail themselves of apeer mediation opportunity, students must not have been involved in anyphysical violence relating to the particular incident.

Rule 2: Bullying - Harassing - Abusing - TauntingGeorgia Law defines bullying as: any willful attempt or threat to inflict injuryon another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to doso, or any intentional display offence such as would give the victim reason tofear or expect immediate bodily harm.

Bullying, verbally abusing, making lewd or suggestive comments, taunting,harassing, inappropriately touching, or threatening students, faculty, or staffare not allowed. Students are not to annoy, intimidate, or make derogatorycomments to others.

Aggressive Behavior RubricAggressive Behavior is not tolerated at Unity Christian School. Some offensesare too dramatic or severe to be handled by this simple rubric.

1st Offense – verbal warning; student will offer apology; offense recordedin Renweb; parents of both parties will be called.

2nd Offense – 1 day out of school suspension; student will offer apology;offense will be recorded in Renweb, and parents of both parties will becalled.

3rd Offense – 3 days out of school suspension; student will offer apology;offense will be recorded in Renweb, and parents of both parties will becalled.

After the 3rd Offense, the student’s enrollment status will be evaluated.Students who do not respond positively to redirection or correction arenot profiting from the UCS environment and are subject to expulsion.

Rule 3: Refusing to Follow InstructionsRefusal to follow instructions of faculty or staff and all acts ofinsubordination are serious offenses at UCS.

Rule 4: Classroom Disturbances, Rude and Discourteous BehaviorAny continuous student actions or inappropriate comments, disruptions, ordisrespect that prevents a teacher from conducting class is not tolerated.UCS faculty who find it necessary to stop teaching to discipline a student


who continues to be uncooperative will send him/her to the officeimmediately with a disciplinary referral.

Rule 5: School DisturbancesDisturbances and loudness in the halls, classrooms, or other areas of thebuilding and campus endanger the safety of others.

Rule 6: Drugs and Alcohol - Zero Tolerance PolicyA student shall not possess, sell, use, transmit, or be under the influence ofany illicit drug or inhalant, substance represented as a drug, drugparaphernalia, or alcohol. This rule is in effect on all UCS grounds, en routeto and from school on school-related activities, on school buses, and atschool activities away from school. The proper use of a drug authorized by aregistered physician shall not be considered a violation of this rule-prescribed medication must be kept in the school's designated office.

Rule 7: Weapons - Zero Tolerance PolicyStudents cannot possess, supply, handle, use or transmit a knife of any size,razor blade, or other object that can be considered a weapon or represents aweapon including but not limited to toy guns. This rule is in effect on all UCSgrounds, en route to and from school at school-related activities, on schoolbuses, and at school activities away from school. The term "weapon" meansand includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended topropel a missile of any kind, or any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife,ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of three or more inches,straight-edge razors, spring stick, metal knuckless, blackjack, or any flailinginstrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a way toallow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chuck, or chain,throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind. No mace, pepperspray, stink/smoke bombs, firecrackers, explosives, gasoline, etc.

Rule 8: Vulgar Communications including Pornography and Sexual MisconductUse of profane, vulgar, or obscene words, gestures, or actions, or possession ofpornographic materials are not allowed at UCS and cannot be displayed on clothing,book bags, school materials, etc. Students found to be distributing inappropriateimages or messages via any means either low-tech or high-tech will be disciplined.Discipline may include possible suspension or expulsion.Engaging in any sexual activity by UCS students is not permitted. Sexual activityincludes heterosexual or homosexual acts. Behavior of this nature is punishable bypossible suspension or expulsion.

Rule 9: PropertyWillful and malicious destruction or vandalism to school or private property


while under school supervision is a violation of the code of conduct. Theft ofany property belonging to students or school personnel at any time or placeis a violation of code of conduct.

Rule 10: TobaccoStudents shall not possess, transmit, or use tobacco in any form on any UCS schoolgrounds, en route to and from school, on school buses, or off the school groundswhile in attendance at any school function. Students shall not be in possession oflighters, matches, or other smoking paraphernalia.

Rule 11: Extortion or Attempt to Extort, IntimidationStudents shall not obtain anything from others through pressure, by force, or byundue or illegal power.

Rule 12: GamblingStudents shall not gamble on school property or while attending an activityunder school supervision.

Rule 13: Off-LimitsStudents are to go only to sections of the building/campus wherefaculty/staff have given permission. Students are to remain on the UCScampus throughout the school day; students are not to go to cars in theparking lot during the day without prior permission. Students are not to bein the building at any time without supervision.

Rule 14: Truancy-Skipping any Portion of the School day and LeavingCampusMissing any class or homeroom time without written permission approvedby an administrator or teacher constitutes truancy; failure to check in orcheck out properly will be considered truancy; leaving campus during theschool day without permission is truancy. Students are considered to be oncampus the moment they enter the parking lot and may not leave withoutchecking out. Failing to report to homeroom is considered an issue oftruancy. Students must have express permission to miss any class orextracurricular activity.

Rule 15: Forgery/False StatementsParent/guardian signatures are required on documents. School records ormedical excuses are not to be altered. Making false accusations againstteachers and/or students is prohibited.


Rule 16: State or Federal LawsAny student violating a law of the State of Georgia or the United States ofAmerica while on any UCS school grounds or at any school function shall besubject to disciplinary action.

Rule 17: Dress Code ViolationsStudents will be dressed appropriately. Please refer to the UniformPolicy/Requirements section of this handbook for guidelines.

Rule 18: TardiesStudents should be in class and seated when the tardy bell rings. Teacherswill assign consequences for students who are repeatedly tardy. If a studentarrives at school after homeroom is over, he or she is to see to check in withthe receptionist. Failure to follow this procedure will be considered truancy.Tardies, which are excessive in length, may be considered truancy.

Rule 19: Intimidation or Assault of a School EmployeePhysical threats, physical contact, or verbal threats to any school employeeare not tolerated.

Rule 20: Athletic Events and School Related ActivitiesStudents attending athletic events and school related activities on or off thecampus are governed by school rules. See academic policies regardinggrades and athletic participation.

SEARCH AND SEIZUREAccording to Georgia Laws, schools have access to student lockers, automobiles, andpersonal belongings while on the school campus when there is reason to suspect that thewelfare of students and other personnel may be threatened. The search shall be made inthe presence of at least one witness, except in emergency situations or if dangerous orillegal materials are in plain view. Discovery of dangerous or illegal materials shall bereported to proper authorities. Delegated search officials are the principal and certifiedemployees who are responsible for students who are away from school before, during, orafter regular school hours.

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