Student Handbook

This handbook is intended to give direction and understanding of our general goals and procedures. It does not include everything. We encourage your suggestions for improving this handbook by talking directly with the administrator, a teacher, or submitting your ideas in writing.

Richards Christian Academy is dedicated to the philosophy that Christian education, with its associated values and roots, is the best education. All education is spiritual in nature and true education must be administered in a spiritual atmosphere that recognizes God as the Supreme Source of all knowledge and wisdom.

The Word of God is our final authority for faith and life. We believe that the Scriptures give us the true view of God and man. The Scriptures tell us that God is an orderly Personality who created man and the universe and that He is the Author of the order, reason, and reality that are reflected in the universe. All truth is God's truth.
Parents have been given the responsibility for the spiritual as well as the intellectual training of their children. The school's role is to help them fulfill this responsibility.

Our goal is to mold a well-rounded person who demonstrates academic excellence and displays the spiritual and social maturity to glorify God and bring honor to God, his family and his country.

Admissions

Admission to RCA is open to any young person regardless of race, color, or national and ethnic origin who meets the entrance requirements.  Additionally, we are committed to helping a limited number of students who are academically weak, as long as the parents and student are working hard to succeed, and the student’s behavior or academic performance does not impede the affected classes. All students must conform to the standards set forth in this handbook.

Admission Policies:

1. Students must demonstrate teachable and moldable hearts.
2. RCA is unable at this time to provide for students who have:
- a low academic performance as indicated by the entrance achievement test
- failed the most recent grade level prior to application
- emotional or disciplinary problems
- a court record
3. Exceptions to these policies must be taken into advisement with the school administrator.
Admission Procedures:
1. Before making application, read the materials carefully to determine whether or not RCA offers the type of education you desire for your child.
2. Complete and return the application for admission.  The registration fee must accompany each student application.  No processing can be done without this fee which is non-refundable.
3. Since the academic standards at RCA are higher than those of most institutions, an achievement test will be given to most prospective students to determine as nearly as possible how the student will perform academically in comparison with the class he will be entering.  The school does not want to place undue strain upon students who possibly would find the work too difficult.  A representative of the school will call the parent and make an appointment for the child to be tested before entering RCA.  Following the test, the office will contact the parents by telephone.  A personal interview will be arranged with one of the administrators.  The student is not automatically enrolled until all interviews, test results, and previous school clearance is made.
4. An interview will be scheduled with the administrator and a board member to discuss the application.  This interview will be held with both parents and the prospective student(s).  The following items should be brought to the interview:
a. report cards and/or records from the last school attended (if possible).
b. latest achievement test scores
5. Final decision for or against acceptance will be made after the interview, and the prospective student will be notified as soon as possible.  Each child applying for admission will be considered on his/her own merit and not according to religious affiliation, race, or ethnic background.  Parents will be notified by letter of their student’s acceptance status within a week of the interview.
6. Re-admission requirements will differ from admission requirements in registration fee only.
7. Being able to attend RCA is a privilege, not a right.

Re-enrollment:

Students who are presently enrolled in the school are given first opportunity to re-enroll for the following school year beginning Feb. 1st.  Re-enrollment must be done each year and is not complete until the fee is paid.  There will be an annual evaluation of students with low citizenship grades.   All re-enrollments are subject to the administrator’s approval and written notification will be given if rejected.

Open registration for new and prospective families will begin March 1st immediately following the re-enrollment period.

School office hours are 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM Monday through Thursday. When coming to the school for any reason, please come to the school office first and sign in.  Please do not go directly to the classroom.  Lunches, homework, books, etc., may be left in the office to be delivered.
 

Withdrawal or Dismissal

If a parent wishes to withdraw a student during the academic year, an appointment must be made to discuss the situation with the administrator.  If the withdrawal proceeds thereafter, a letter to the administrator stating the reasons for said action should be forwarded to the school.  In order to transfer grades and records to another school, the parent must go to the new school and sign a form requesting the forwarding of the student’s transcripts.  The new school will then correspond with our office, and the transfer of records will be completed if all financial accounts are settled. A 4 week notice is required for withdrawl.

Transcripts and Records

The school maintains a permanent record file on each student.  It includes academic,  behavior and attendance records.

Material in each student’s file is confidential and shall be accessible only by permission of the school administration. Information on the student’s permanent record will be given out to the following:
1. To the parents and students upon request of the parents.
2. To applicable teachers (Academic Information).
3. To prospective employers upon receipt of parent/student authorization.
4. To colleges and universities (military service) upon the student’s request.
5. To another school as a result of withdrawal or transfer upon receipt of parental authorization.
Records will not be automatically transferred, but must be requested.  Records will not be released if accounts are not current. 
One month notice is required for all withdrawals.

Tuition and Payments

Tuition may be paid on a monthly budget plan of ten months (August - May).  The following policies apply to any installment payment of tuition:
1. The first tuition payment is due on August 1st. There is a 10% discount for multiple siblings.
2. The nine subsequent payments are to be made on the 1st of each month, May being the tenth and final month.
3. All accounts are payable on the 1st  of each month granting a 10-day grace period, and become delinquent on the 10th of the month.   
4. A $10.00 late fee is charged to any delinquent account on the 10th.
5. After the 30th of the month, a 1.5% late fee will be charged to the balance of the account.
6. If an account becomes 2 months delinquent, the student(s) will be subject to suspension until the account is brought current.
7. No school records will be released if an account is not current.  This includes report cards, mid-term reports, and information from students’ permanent files.  Students will not be allowed to re-enroll until the account is current.
8. If a check is returned for insufficient funds, the parent will be charged a $10.00 fee.
9. The school will not accept responsibility for payments lost or late when they are sent with a student.
10. Parents should contact the administrator ahead of time if there is going to be some payment difficulty so that satisfactory arrangements for payment can be made.

Closed Campus

RCA operates under the ‘closed campus’ policy.  Once a student arrives on school property in the morning, he/she is not to leave until dismissed from school in the afternoon.  If a student has a special need to leave school, such as a doctor or dental appointment or lunch, a parent must send in a note.

Visiting Classes

Parents of students, of course, are permitted to visit any class.  It would be helpful to call ahead to find the best time to visit, but you are welcome at any time. Parents of prospective students should first call the office for a visiting time.

Students from other schools are allowed to visit. Permission must be granted by the principal at least 24 hours before the visit. Visiting students should go first to the office and sign in. Visiting students must conform to all school standards of behavior and dress while attending school functions.

Homework Policy

RCA is a college preparatory school dedicated to strong academics. Students must turn in homework assignments as required by the teachers. Students can expect approximately one-half hour of homework per night for each academic class. (Middle-High School)

Students who are absent a part of the school day are still responsible to turn in all assignments due and complete scheduled examinations on that particular day. This may require the student to remain after school until the work is completed.

Before leaving school for an excused absence a student is responsible to confer with each of his/her teachers about homework, receive new work assignments and establish a timetable for making up work.  Students are expected to have completed all major projects the day they return from an excused absence.  Students will have two school days (for each day missed) in which to complete daily assignments that were missed due to an excused absence.
 In the case of an unexcused late homework assignment, the student may turn it in the following day for a 5% (1/2 letter grade) deduction after the paper is graded.  Each day the paper is late, the student will receive an additional 5% deduction.  (3 days late = 15% off).  After 5 days, the assignment will be given zero credit.

Academic Honors

Students who receive a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher are placed on the Honor Roll. The academic GPA does not include sports or physical education.

The Principal’s List is composed of those students who have maintained quarterly grades of all ‘A’s in all subjects.  Each quarter the Principal’s List will be published.  At the end of the year award certificates will be presented to those students who have been on the Principal’s List all year.

Attendance and punctuality are responsibilities that each parent and student must take seriously.  Prompt and regular attendance is an excellent habit to establish now and is essential for successful class work.  Attendance records must be sent each month to you local school board.  Please call the Board of Education in your county to receive information on Home School requirements.

Students should not arrive before 8:00 a.m.  All students must be picked up by 1:30pm daily.  Any exception to this scheduling must be arranged through the administrator. A fee will be attached to you monthly tuition bill of $5.00 for every 5 minutes late picking up your student.

For security reasons, parents must call the school office to report that a child is absent.  Following the absence, the student must bring a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian.  This excuse must state the time of the absence and the reason for the absence. 

Students who know in advance that they will miss part of the school day must bring a note from a parent stating the nature of the situation.  The note must be brought to school the day prior to the absence.  Dental and medical appointments should be made after school if at all possible.  Responsibility for getting all assignments and making up daily work rests with the parent and student.  The school needs a note giving permission for your child to leave the building with someone other than his/her regular car pool.

Absences Defined

An absence is defined as not attending class. There are two types of absences, EXCUSED and UNEXCUSED.

Excused Absences

An absence will be excused if it is for one of the following reasons:

1. Illness or injury
2. Doctor/Dentist appointment (student must have written note)
3. Bereavement
4. Prearranged absence; this constitutes an absence beyond the control of the student where it becomes a matter of priority for parents or guardians to keep the student out of school. It is the responsibility of the parents and student to contact the teachers at least two days in advance for assignments. If advance notification is not provided, the absence(s) will be considered unexcused.

Unexcused Absences

Most absences due to reasons other than those listed above will be considered unexcused.  The teachers may give zeros for the assignments missed.  However, extenuating circumstances will be handled on an individual basis by the school administration.

Excessive Absences

Any student missing more than 10 days of school per semester may receive an ‘F’ for the semester’s course work.   High school students exceeding the 15-day absence limit will receive an ‘F’ for each and every class where the limit has been exceeded.

Homework Make-up Policy

When returning to school after an absence, the student must turn in a note of explanation from his/her parent and any work missed.  The student will have two school days (for each day missed) in which to complete assignments that were missed due to an excused absence.

Tardiness

A tardy is defined as coming to class after the start of the class period, but within the first ten minutes of the class period.  Parent calls will not excuse a student tardy unless it is for one of the reasons listed as an excused absence.  We do understand that traffic can be an issue on some mornings.  Please try to adjust you schedule to get your student to school on time.

Cutting Classes

A student is cutting class when he/she fails to come to campus or leaves campus without proper permission for any part of the school day or chooses not to attend any class while on campus without proper permission.

Leaving the school campus without authorization (i.e. cutting or skipping classes) will be regarded as a most serious offense, requiring disciplinary action and parent notification.

Cutting Policy

1.  First cut: Student will be required to pay a $25.00 administrative fee; student will be suspended from school; student and parent will meet with an administrator.
2.  Second cut: Student will be expelled from school.
Note: Administrative fees will be paid prior to the student being admitted to class. A cut is an unexcused absence from each class period missed (The $25 fee may be worked off by the student.)

BEHAVIOR /DISCIPLINE

Philosophy

The under girding philosophy for the discipline system at RCA stems from several Biblical premises, first, the Lord is pleased with obedience and respect for authority.  Second, in the security of order and structure, there is true liberty.  Third, though our systems of discipline are designed for consistency and fairness (i.e. equal treatment of all).  The teacher retains the right to discern the needs of the individual student and get to the root of a problem.  Rather than treating just the symptoms, the teacher may employ creative methods of dealing with a problem.  In this crucial area of discipline and conduct, it is expected that every parent will be willing to take an active, constructive part in the overall interaction of the home and the school.

Discipline Objectives

“Discipline your son, for in that there is hope.”  Proverbs 19:18

Areas of concentration for all students:
1. Respect : towards all adults, school property, God’s name and each other.
2. Self-control: in conduct and attitudes.
3. Obedience: for rules and teacher’s instructions.
4. Honesty
5. Orderliness: in conduct, personal belongings, and with regard to assignments.
6. Kindness: in speech, actions, and attitudes. 

The teachers each use a classroom management system.  This system integrates Biblical principles and assertive discipline.  It consists of four things:  1) rules, 2) consequences, 3) positive reinforcement and 4) parent/school communication.  Rules are the specific standards or behaviors necessary to maintain a conductive learning environment.  Consequences are applied when classroom rules are broken.  They are organized in a hierarchy, from less to more substantial.  Positive reinforcement of students is used consistently.  Positive reinforcement fits into four categories:  individual praise, notes or calls home, individual positives, and class wide positives.  Each classroom teacher is responsible for posting and consistently enforcing his or her management plan in the classroom.  A typical chart would consist of the following:
RULES may include:
1. Follow directions.
2. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
3. Be in your seat when class starts.
4. Be prepared for class with all homework and necessary supplies.

Destruction of Church Property is grounds for IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL.

CONSEQUENCES may include:
1. Verbal warning.
2. Infraction
3. Loss of lunch recreation period.
4. 45 minute after school detention.
5. Parent and Teacher conference.
6. Visit with principal.

PARENT/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

1. Teacher will make a phone call for a repeated offense.
2. A parent/teacher conference will be required after the 5th infraction.
It is to be remembered that this system is designed to assist students in managing their classroom behavior.  This system does not apply to violation of school standards such as those listed below.

In an atmosphere of definite and positive Christian standards of conduct, there is an opportunity for the development of a strong and stable Christian character.  The following behavior choices are unacceptable in our school:
1. Disrespect for teachers, staff members and other students.
2. Destruction or defacing of school/church property.
3. Cheating on test, homework or other work assigned.
4. Taking items which do not belong to them, i.e. stealing.
5. Fighting.
6. Use of obscene or profane language or gestures on school grounds or at school functions.
7. Possession of obscene pornographic, or anti-Christian literature.
8. Possession of alcoholic beverage, drugs of any kind, cigarettes at school or at school functions.
9. Sexual Immorality (Acts 15:20).

Students involved in these activities will receive appropriate discipline, which may include probation, suspension or both.  Students also face the possibility of being asked to withdraw from RCA or of being expelled.  The administration reserves the right to add to or subtract from the above list.

Because of the adverse effect of the use of drugs, alcoholic beverages and cigarettes on our Christian testimony and our physical well-being, the school has taken a strong stand against their use.  If a student uses any of the above, he will face serious discipline which could result in his being asked to withdraw from RCA or in his being expelled.

General School Rules

In addition to the guidelines stated in the Discipline sections, there are a few general school rules:
1. Students must respectfully obey directions given by any adult.
2. Courtesy, kindness, and respect are expected at all times.
3. Running, pushing or causing disturbances in the building is not allowed.
4. NO gum chewing at school.
5. Radios, cassette players, electronic games, playing cards, and toy guns, knives, etc. may NOT be brought to school. Cell phones must be turned off during the school day.
6. Destruction of any school/church property is not allowed.  Students who deliberately damage any property will be expected to pay for it.
7. Classroom teachers will establish appropriate rules for individual classrooms and lunch.
8. Students must not ‘horse around’ on the school premises (examples include pushing, punching, even just in fun).

Student Classroom Responsibilities

Students are to be seated in the classroom before 8:30am
Students should stop talking when class starts.
Students should have no food in class.
Class is over when the teacher dismisses the class, not before.
Students should have pens or pencils as necessary.

School Jurisdiction

Students are considered under the school’s jurisdiction as follows:
1. When students arrive on the school grounds in the morning until they leave the grounds in the afternoon.
2. When students are in attendance at a school activity whether on RCA grounds or at another location.
It is also to be remembered that students whose behavior directly conflicts with school standards (drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, immoral sexual activity, etc.) whether under school jurisdiction, or not, are subject to disciplinary action by the school.

Infractions

The infraction system is the primary mode of discipline used at RCA.  Because it is our belief that parents primarily responsible for instructing and training their children, infractions are designed to bring parents into the discipline process.  We also believe that students should rely on internal rather than external restraints.

Therefore, an infraction is meant to represent not only a breech of RCA policy but also a lack of internal discipline on the student’s part.  The purpose of the system is not to punish those students who are seeking to abide by the expectations held at the system is not to punish those students who are seeking to abide by the expectations held at RCA.  Rather it is to discipline those students who willfully rebel against authority in ways such as blatant disobedience or repeated acts of misbehavior.  The infraction process proceeds as follows:

1 infraction = 1 lunch detention and a call home by the teacher issuing the infraction.
2 infractions = 1 lunch detention and another call home by the teacher issuing the infraction.
3 infractions = 1 after school detention from 1:30 – 3:00pm on a date determined by the principal.  This time parents will be notified by a phone call and letter sent by the principal.
4 infractions = 1 lunch detention, another call home from the teacher and a pre-probation discussion with the principal.
5 infractions = Probation and a meeting with parents and administrators to discuss possible in or out of school suspension and possible expulsion.

Probation

The student is given a chance to correct the problem himself when he/she is put on probation.  If he/she does not improve to a satisfactory level, he/she will be dismissed or asked to withdraw from the school.  The problems for which a student would be put on probation include the following offenses:
1. Academic: Students whose overall quarter average is less than a C or who received an F in any academic core course (English, math, science, or social studies) on their quarterly report cards will be placed on academic probation.  If a student finishes the year on academic probation, he may have to attend a summer school in order to return to RCA.
2. Attitude:  A rebellious spirit which is unchanged after being confronted or a continued negative attitude and bad influence upon the other students is grounds for probation.
3. Discipline:  continued deliberate disobedience of a teacher or of school rules. Committing a serious breach of conduct inside or outside school.
Probation will last for six to nine weeks.  Student activities will be limited and students will step down from positions of leadership.  At the end of the probation period, the faculty will reconsider the student and recommend removal from probation or withdrawal from school.  A student who has been dismissed or has been asked to withdraw will be considered for readmission after a minimum of nine months from the date of dismissal or withdrawal.  Faculty action placing a student on probation for the second time in two consecutive semesters constitutes a recommendation to the administration that the student be dismissed from school.

Suspension

A student who has a persistent discipline problem at the school may receive a one to five day suspension as a last warning prior to dismissal from the school.  In the event of a suspension, the parent(s) is/are required meeting with the administrator and the teacher(s) involved for a conference.  The student will be required to sit in on all or part of this conference in most circumstances.  A suspension may result from any serious infraction of school rules or standards.  The students are required to make up any work that is missed during the suspension days.  Although the work must be made up, no credit is given for work missed due to a suspension.
Conflict Resolution/The Matthew 18 Principle
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.” (NIV)
RCA is made up of people such as parents, administrators, teachers and students.  Like any other institution where there is a large group of people, the potential for misunderstanding, disagreement, and even wrong-doing exists.  Nevertheless, it is God’s will that we all work together in harmony.  We are to always give a ‘good report’ and to constantly work for ‘unity.’  When misunderstanding or strong disagreements occur, the following principles should be followed in solving people-to-people problems.  These principles are based upon Matthew 18:15-17.
1. Keep the Matter Confidential.   The very pattern of sharing the problem only with those directly involved establishes the principle of confidentiality.  This is important in that it stops gossip and statements which can hurt.
2. Keep the Circle as Small as Possible.  The first step and usually the only step needed in solving a person-to-person problem is for one of the two people involved to initiate face-to- face dialogue.  Most problems are solved at this two-person level.
3. Be Straightforward.  Sometimes it is difficult to be straightforward and tell someone the very heart of the matter.  But restoration and improvement can only come when the issues are lovingly yet clearly presented.
4. Be Forgiving.  “If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.”  This implies that once the matter is resolved, you should wholeheartedly forgive and restore the person whose fault has caused the problem.
5. The Parent and Teacher Should Agree to Share the Matter with the School Principal “take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”  An open and honest discussion among people who are sensitive to godly principles will most often reach an amiable solution.
In summary, the Matthew 18 principle requires that parents talk to teachers about student problems before they talk to administrators.  If unresolved at the two-person level, the matter is prayerfully, and in an orderly fashion moved upward in the school organizational structure.
A prayerful, systematic approach to any problem dealing with people can help to improve any situation, if not solve the problem completely.  RCA is a Christian school, and as a result, we need to carefully handle our problems the best way possible with guidelines that lead us to a ‘good report,’ and which honor the Lord and His Word.

DRESS CODES

7.1  General Dress Code Guidelines 5K – 6th Grade

Goals:   
To create a good self-image, which is vital to Christian growth.
To teach students to dress appropriately for a given occasion.
To encourage students to be neat and modest in appearance.
To provide a safe environment.
 Teachers need to concentrate attention in areas other than monitoring dress.  Therefore we ask parents to take an active role in assisting students in following these guidelines.  This standard applies to all classes, before and after school, during field trips, and other school related activities.
A. Students should have a pleasing appearance by being neat and clean.
B. Clothing which is form fitting, in any way revealing, too short, faded, or tattered is inappropriate.
C. Shirts and blouses should be buttoned or fastened properly, shirt colors are: Navy, Gray, Light Blue, White. All polos MUST have the school logo on them. Pant colors are Navy Blue and Khaki.
D. Hats or sunglasses are not to be worn in the building.
E. Clothing which promotes or depicts un-Christian messages or symbols are unacceptable and should not be worn.
F. The Administration shall make the final determination if questions of interpretation arise.

Dress Code for Young Ladies 5K – 6th grade

A. Dresses/Skirts/Jumpers/Shorts:  Must be no shorter than two inches above the knee.  Mini skirts, and mini dresses are unacceptable.
B. Blouses/Tops:  Blouses, shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts are acceptable with school logo.  Tank tops, T-tops, blouses that are low-cut, midriff, or sleeveless shirts that have enlarged or oversized armholes are unacceptable.  Appropriate under clothes shall be worn at all times.
C. Slacks/Pants:  Pants should not be form fitting.  Stretch or stirrup pants are acceptable but must not be tight.  (If they cling to the leg or buttocks, they are tight.)  Warm-ups, sweatpants, and biker’s pants are unacceptable.  Pants should not be overly sized or intentionally saggy.
D. Footwear:  Sturdy, comfortable shoes are desired. Flip flops are not acceptable.
E. Jewelry/Make-up:  Appropriate jewelry should be worn in modesty, with safety in mind.  Make-up should be worn moderately.
F. Hair:  Hair should be neat and clean.  Punk styles, dye or painted, or shaved designs are unacceptable.
School Uniforms REQUIRED in 5K – 6th grade.  See Guidelines for School Uniforms.
 

Dress Code for Young Men 5K – 6th grade

A. Shirts:  Cotton, knit, flannel, polo, oxfords, sweaters, and sweatshirts are acceptable.ALL SHIRTS MUST HAVE SCHOOL LOGO ON THEM.  Tank tops are unacceptable.
B. Pants/Slacks:  Navy and Khaki pants.   Pants should not be form fitting.  Warm-ups, sweatpants, and biker’s pants are unacceptable.  Pants should not be overly sized or intentionally saggy.  Underwear should not be showing.
C. Footwear:  Sturdy, comfortable shoes are desired.  Flip flops are not acceptable.
D. Hair:  Hair must be neat and clean, away from the eyes and off the collar.  Punk styles, dye or painted, rat tails, or shaved designs are unacceptable.
E. Jewelry:  Jewelry, if any, should be worn discreetly and moderately.
F.. Academic Meets & Special Events:  Dress clothes are required.  Girls: dress pants, skirts, dresses.  Boys : collared shirts & dress pants.

7th Grade – 12th Grade Dress Code

Guidelines for school uniforms
Uniforms are mandatory for this age group.
Girls Uniform:  Shirts:  Cotton, knit, flannel, polo, oxfords, sweaters, and sweatshirts are acceptable.  Tank tops are unacceptable. Colors allowed are White, Royal, Grey and Pink. ALL SHIRTS MUST HAVE THE SCHOOL LOGO ON THEM.  Pants/Skirts :  Pants, capris, skorts and skirts are acceptable. Colors are navy & khaki.  ALL skirts must be a school uniform skirt. Please go to www.classroomuniforms.com to view the style of skirts that are acceptable (plaid skirts are available). Mini-skirts and mini dress are unacceptable.
Hair:  Hair must be neat and clean, away from the eyes and off the collar.  Punk styles, dye or painted, rat tails, or shaved designs are unacceptable.
Boys Uniform: Shirts:  Cotton, knit, flannel, polo, oxfords, sweater and sweatshirts are acceptable.  Tank tops are unacceptable.  Colors allowed are White, Royal, and Grey.  ALL SHIRTS MUST HAVE SCHOOL LOGO ON THEM. Pants/Shorts:  Khaki’s and navy pants are allowed. Warm-ups, sweatpants, and biker’s pants are unacceptable.  Pants should not be overly sized or intentionally saggy.  Underwear should not be showing.  
Hair:  Hair must be neat and clean, away from the eyes and off the collar.  Punk styles, dye or painted, rat tails, or shaved designs are unacceptable.
Students will be instructed as to what to wear on field trips.  
Dress Code Enforcement
Any student not adhering to the guidelines set forth will be sent to the school office for final determination by the administration.  Parents will be notified so the situation can be resolved.  Until the violation is corrected, the student will remain out of classes.

ALL OUTERWEAR INCLUDING SWEATSHIRTS, HOODIES, ETC.. MUST HAVE SCHOOL LOGO ON IT for 7th - 12th GRADE.

Dress Code Summary

The RCA dress code is presented so that our school families will have an understanding of the standards agreed to when students are enrolled.  The intent of the standards is to present a peaceful, orderly and respectful school atmosphere, not to measure spirituality.  The standards are not meant to be divisive or to dictate pseudo-righteousness.  RCA recognizes parental authority and depends on parents to support the dress code by checking their children before school each day.

Care of School and Church Property

All children are expected to take care of our school and church property at all times.  The child must reimburse the school for willful or careless damage to school and church property, or loss of textbooks.  School property, including furniture and equipment, must not be defaced, marred or damaged.  Violators will be billed for damages.

Carpool Information and Student Pickup

1. Each family is responsible for student transportation to and from school.
2. NO students should stay at school after 1:30 p.m(except those involved in an after school activity).

Change of Address/Telephone

Any student moving must report the change of address to the school office as soon as possible.  Changes in telephone numbers should also be reported immediately.  This is essential for school records and in case of an emergency or illness.

School Closing

We follow Cobb County Schools for inclement weather closings.

School Office Hours

The school office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily. 

Student Drivers

Any student possessing a valid Georgia driver’s license may drive to school, providing the student drives in a responsible manner.  Any student who drives in a careless or reckless manner will forfeit the privilege of driving to school.

Students who drive to school must park in the designated parking areas.  No student may use his car during school hours without special permission from his parents and the school administrator.  Under no circumstances are students to transport anyone other than those assigned by parents to ride with that student driver.

Regulations:

1. Drivers are to be adequately licensed and insured.
2. Vehicles are to be parked at stipulated area and may not be occupied or otherwise used during school hours. All students must park in the upper parking lot near the main sanctuary.
3. Student riders must have their parents’ written consent on file.
4. Careless or reckless driving is prohibited and will result in temporary or permanent loss of the driving privilege.

Field Trips

Various classes take trips to interesting and educational places in the area from time to time as a vital part of the instructional program.  Parents will be notified beforehand and must sign a permission slip for the students to go.  Small fees may be charged to cover expenses.  Parents will also be asked to help provide transportation and chaperone on these trips.  Volunteers in this area are welcome.   Some field trips will require special dress.  Students should check with the faculty sponsor prior to the field trip to find out what dress is appropriate for the outing.

Thank you,

RCA Staff