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WELCOME TO HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN SCHOOL
This handbook has been prepared to assist parents in getting better
acquainted with the purpose, operation, and policies of Heavenly Host
Lutheran School. We hope that such information will make for a closer
home and school. Only when home and school can work together toward
the same goals can the best results be achieved in Christian
Education.
Keep this booklet handy. Refer to it often. Feel free to ask
questions or request any additional information or explanations.
May the Lord richly bless the cooperation of parents, teachers, and
the administrator for an effective program of Christian education!
OUR MISSION
The mission of Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to provide our
students with Christ-centered teaching and excellent academics that
prepare them for service to God, community, and family.
HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN SCHOOL
BOARD MEMBERS
Updated December 1, 2009
Mr. Howard Patschke, Chairman; term expires 2011
Mrs. Susan Schultz, Secretary; term expires 2010
Mrs. Susan Colson, Treasurer; term expires 2010
Mr. Bill Baessler; term expires 2011
Mr. Brad Bingham; term expires 2012
Mrs. Amanda Brantley; term expires 2010
Mr. Jim Groce; term expires 2011
Rev. David McMinn, Associate Pastor
Mrs. Angela Shirley, ECC Director
Mr. Brian Troupe; term expires 2012
Mr. Woody VanStratum; term expires 2011
Mrs. Liz Wickersham, Principal
THE ABC’s OF A SUPPORTIVE PARENT/CHILD SCHOOL RELATIONSHIP
A All…it all begins with God, Our Father. Remember the grace
your Father has given you, and remember to extend that grace
to your child.
B Be aware of the damage that you can cause by telling your
child that he or she is stupid. The child might believe your
mistake.
C Communicate the importance of education to your child.
D Do not criticize a teacher, textbook, or school in front of
your child as the child may well adopt your attitude.
E Encourage your child to discuss what happened at school today.
F Fix your child a good breakfast each day.
G Good readers are made, not born. Read to your child for at
least 10 minutes every day.
H Help your child get organized for school the night before.
I Impress your child with the importance of good attendance.
J Join in with other parents for Parent & Teachers of Lutheran
School (PTLS) activities.
K Keep up with what is happening at your child’s school.
L Lying for your child is wrong. Do not write false excuses
for a child not doing homework or missing a day of school.
M Monitor the amount and type of television your child watches.
N Never do your child’s homework or projects for her or him.
Instead, help your child with homework and projects.
O Observe the work your child brings home from school each day.
P Praise something in the work that your child brings home from
school, even if you only mention how neatly it is written.
Q Quiet corners in your home encourage study. Set up a special
study area for your child.
R Request conferences with teachers or counselors when trouble
begins. Do not wait until a full-grown problem develops.
S Send a happy, well-rested, well-organized and appropriately
dressed child off to school each morning.
T Take your child to the library on a regular basis.
U Understand that learning is not always easy and that your
child may need help at times.
V Value your child as an individual. Never compare a child to
a brother, sister or another child.
W Work with your child’s teacher and school. Consider yourself
a partner of your child’s teacher rather than an adversary.
X X is often an unknown ingredient. It is the Xtra special
things that you do to help your child succeed in school.
Y You are your child’s most important teacher.
Z Zip it all up with love for love is what gives meaning to a
child’s learning and life!
Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, Cookeville, Tennessee, is committed to
a total program of Christian education. At the heart of this program
is Heavenly Host Lutheran School, NLSA and SACS accredited, with its
goal of providing a quality education in a Christian environment.
Christian education equals growing. This includes physical,
cognitive, social, emotional, creative, and spiritual growth.
Heavenly Host Lutheran Church operates Heavenly Host Lutheran School
in response to God's love for his people by sharing the Gospel with
those entrusted to our care. Children are not discriminated against
on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, religion, or disability.
Our school's goal is to equip our students both spiritually and
academically, and enable our students to reach their full potential
as Christian individuals and responsible, productive citizens. We
want to nurture students and their families in Christian love as they
grow in knowledge, attitudes, and skills.
Christian education at Heavenly Host Lutheran School accepts
Christianity as the faith that encompasses all of life. The education
at HHLS is Bible-based. The Christian faith is taught as a complete
body of God-inspired truths, which integrates every area of the
curriculum.
Heavenly Host Lutheran School Purpose
The purpose of Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to share the
Christian faith by assisting parents in providing opportunities for
spiritual, cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and creative
growth of children in a Christ-centered environment.
Thus, we believe that by the Christian church, Christian home, and
Christian school working as a team, our children will receive the
best possible training for their future lives.
Central to every aspect of learning at our school is Christ's love.
We believe that when children learn that they are loved, they learn
to love themselves as well as others.
A Caring Community
Sharing God's love is what Lutheran Schools do best. The staff’s care
for children goes beyond simple or programmed techniques. Their
caring stems from their whole-hearted commitment to model Jesus
Christ. They teach joyfully by words and deeds. Central to every
caring act of every day in a Lutheran School is Christ's love. When
children learn that they are loved by God and by others, they learn
to love Him and each other.
Parents' love and support for their children is basic to every
child's development. Pastors, teachers and other advisors play key
roles in ministering to the children as they grow academically and
mature in their faith. The network of care is genuine - and available
to families beyond school hours, because the Lord's love is genuine
and His love sets no limits. Please feel free to call the pastor,
teacher, or the administrator if you have questions. May God grant
us all wisdom and strength to do this most important work for the
children.
THE LUTHERAN SCHOOL SYSTEM
There are more than 2,500 Lutheran schools in the United States and
Canada, where 12,500 teachers are, with the blessing of the Holy
Spirit, educating over 200,000 children.
The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod also maintains a system of
colleges, universities and seminaries throughout the United States
and abroad.
STRUCTURE OF THE SCHOOL
Below is the structure of Heavenly Host Lutheran School:
GOD
HEAVENLY HOST LUTHERAN CHURCH VOTERS
BOARD OF EDUCATION
As you will note, God is at the top. This is essential to any
successful church ministry. To God be the glory. With God steering
the way, we need not fear.
Next in line are the voters of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, who are
in control of the entire ministry offered by the church. Several
years ago, Heavenly Host Lutheran Church chose to offer a school as a
major part of their outreach in the Upper Cumberland area.
The voters established a Board of Education to nurture and develop
the mission of the school. Policies and procedures are developed by
the Board of Education.
The Pastor of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, the Director of Early
Childhood Education, and the Principal/Director are ex officio
members of the Board of Education. The board elects the Chairperson
of the Board of Education. The Board Chair, a member of HHLC, serves
on the Council of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church. The board recommends
other board members. The Heavenly Host Lutheran Church Council voters
must approve these members.
The Board of Education enlists the aid of the administrator,
Christian educators, and Christian support staff to put into effect
the policies developed by the Board of Education. These workers are
charged with the responsibility of implementing the policies
developed by the Board.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOL
Financial support for the operating costs of the school is derived
primarily from the payment of assessed tuition and fees. Current
information concerning these fees is available through the school
office. Prompt payment of tuition allows us to keep the school
financially healthy. Per contract $25 per month is added as a late
fee. If your account becomes delinquent, your student may be asked
to leave; however, your financial obligation under your signed
contract is still due and payable.
Heavenly Host Lutheran congregation also provides for the financial
support of the school through its voluntary membership
contributions. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans annually matches
funds donated by church and school members. This commitment to the
school is a ministry of the members of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church
in an attempt to keep tuition fees as low as possible to enable more
families to take advantage of the program. Continued growth and
expansion of the school is made possible through the efforts of many
interested parties. An active parent/teacher organization (PTLS)
raises funds for support of school growth, classroom support, library
development, etc. The funds raised at Heavenly Treasures assists the
school with expenses. Some parents and families of HHLS students and
some members of HHLC make regular gifts to the school. All these
financial resources are necessary to enable HHLS to continue
expansion and to continue to add enrichment programs for its
students.
ADMISSION AND ENROLLMENT
Enrollment policies are set by the Board of Education. The order of
consideration for enrollment is as follows:
1.Children of Heavenly Host Lutheran Church members
2.Those currently enrolled in Heavenly Host Lutheran School and
Childhood Center
3.Siblings of those enrolled in Heavenly Host Lutheran School
and Childhood Center
4.Those from the community who request enrollment
Heavenly Host Lutheran School admits students of any race, color,
national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and
activities generally accorded or made available to students at the
school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
national, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational
policies, admission policies, scholarship program, or any other
school-administered programs.
Steps in the Admissions Process
1. Complete the application form and make an appointment to visit the
administrator. The student should be part of this visit if at all
possible.
2. Meet with the administrator.
3. The State of Tennessee requires the following records and
information for admission:
a. Student Social Security Number
b. Immunization Certificate (Green Card)
c. Medical Examination (Green or Blue Card)
d. Transcript/Grade Card
e. Registered Certificate of Live Birth (not mother's copy)
4. The following are required by Heavenly Host Lutheran School for
admission:
a. Signed Parent’s Contract for Admission
b. Student Enrollment Form
c. Medical Release Form
d. Emergency Card
e. Payment for registration
**Records must be complete within 30 days of enrollment
Each student will be required to re-enroll every year, with a non-
transferable, non-refundable registration fee.
Enrollment Probation
All students applying for enrollment in Heavenly Host Lutheran School
are automatically placed on probation. The Board of Education will
have an opportunity to review records, application forms, family
background, or other information. The student may attend school, with
the understanding that he/she may be removed from the classroom for
almost any reason, until the Board approves enrollment.
AIDS/ARC/HIV POLICY
Heavenly Host Lutheran School will continue its existing enrollment
policies as it relates to all students, including any child testing
positive to the Human Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV), testing positive
to HIV and evidencing AIDS-Related Complex (ARC), or testing positive
to HIV and evidencing symptoms of classic AIDS.
Heavenly Host Lutheran School, as it demonstrates its care and
concern for all students and evaluates its program as it relates to
each child, will make a decision regarding enrollment in the spirit
of the Gospel and its service to people. Any case of HIV-, ARC-, or
AIDS-infected child will be considered individually in the following
manner.
If a child who has AIDS, ARC, or tests positive for HIV seeks
admission to the school, a pre-enrollment conference including the
child's parents, physician, probable teacher, administrator, the
pastor of Heavenly Host, Board of Christian Education members, and a
representative from the congregation with a medical background to
determine:
a. AIDS-induced impairment of the child's mental function.
b. Psychological impairment manifested in the potential for possible
aggressive behavior and the potential exposure of others to infected
blood.
c. The immunization status of the child.
d. The necessary limits on the child's curricular and extra-
curricular school participation.
With the above information, the school will determine whether or not
the child is to be enrolled.
In addition, the following guidelines will be followed:
1. Each enrolled child is expected to meet immunization
requirements of the school for
the protection of the student body and staff. Because children with
HIV, ARC, or AIDS are highly susceptible to infections, procedures
shall be established which certify that such a child has been
examined by a doctor before attending school or returning to school
after an illness. An infected child must continue to be under a
doctor's supervision in order to assess periodically whether the
child should remain in school.
2. As part of the health and/or religion curriculum the facility will
provide appropriate instruction about AIDS and its prevention.
3. As appropriate in the religion curriculum, teachers will emphasize
the compassion of Christ to the sick, the promise of divine care for
those who place themselves at risk in the service of others, the hope
of the Resurrection in the presence of terminal disease, and the
celebration of the new life in Christ through faith.
4. The school will maintain a supply of latex gloves, and will
instruct staff and other persons in procedures that will protect them
as they respond to open wounds. The school will also maintain the
highest standards of cleanliness in rest rooms, waste disposal, and
janitor's closets through adequate cleaning procedures, and the use
of proven disinfectants.
All records (personnel's and children's) are confidential, except as
federal and state law requires inspection by specific authorities.
Disclosures of information regarding children's developmental
progress, physical or mental conditions (handicaps) or family
circumstances are treated carefully and confidentially, shared only
with those who have a need to know in order to provide care for the
child.
ANTI-HAZING POLICY
Pursuant to Tennessee Code Section 49-2-120 relative to hazing,
Heavenly Host Lutheran School (HHLS) will allow no act of hazing to
be ignored.
Hazing is defined as any intentional or reckless act, on or off HHLS
property by one student acting alone or with others which is directed
against any other student that endangers or coerces another person to
endanger the mental or physical health or safety of that
student. “Hazing” does not include customary athletic events or
similar contests or competitions, and is limited to those actions
taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or
affiliation with any organization.
Students who engage in acts of hazing will be dealt with swiftly and
firmly. The matter will be brought to the School board in closed
session. The student may face in/out of school suspension, and
possible expulsion. Unless the student is expelled for legal
violations, the records remain a part of HHLS record and do not
follow the student.
Should criminal intent become obvious, law enforcement will be
notified.
Approved 10/27/09
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Students should arrive between 7:45 and 8:00 A.M. The school building
opens at 7:30 A.M. and a teacher/staff member is on duty to monitor
the children until 7:45. No student should arrive before 7:30 A.M.
Children arriving before 7:30 A.M. should wait with their parent.
Students arriving after 8:00 must be escorted into the building and
signed in at the office.
Dismissal is at 3:00 P.M. Please do NOT go to your child’s classroom
door to get them early. Please call if an emergency situation
necessitates a late pick-up. Parents should pick up their children
between 3:00 and 3:30 P.M. A late charge will be assessed for those
students being picked-up after 3:30 P.M.
Faculty and administration discourage early pick-ups. Early
dismissals may be subject to an unexcused tardy.
In the event that a student needs to leave before his/her scheduled
dismissal time parents are required to sign their child out in the
school office. Someone in the office will be responsible for getting
the child from the classroom. Parents are NOT to go to the classroom.
Specific instructions for arrival and dismissal will be given at
orientation.
Be aware of children being ANYWHERE on the church or school grounds.
Be especially aware of children getting in or out of vehicles on the
right (passenger side). Please do not attempt to go around a vehicle
when a child is getting out/in on the passenger side.
A maximum speed of 5 mph should be observed at all times while on
school grounds. Please drive as though your own child might be in the
drive-around area.
Please do not leave your car unattended in the drive-around area.
Please do not park under the school/church’s covered entrance.
Please do not engage in conversations with teachers during arrival
and dismissal. The teacher’s focus is on the safety of children and
efficiency of arrival/dismissal at this time. Please make other
arrangements to speak with your child’s teacher at a more appropriate
time.
A student re-entering the school during pick-up time should be
accompanied by an adult.
STUDENT LATE PICK-UP
Any student who is still at school at 3:30 P.M. will be escorted to
HHLS After-School Care. The charge for this “drop-in” service is
$10.00 per child per day, regardless of the amount of time the
student is present for After-School Care on that day.
ATTENDANCE
All students of Heavenly Host Lutheran School shall meet minimum
attendance standards. Elementary minimum attendance is established by
the State of Tennessee at 90% of the school calendar. To constitute a
full day, a child must be in attendance a minimum of 4 hours.
Regardless of a student's academic standing or reasons for absences,
the school board will review for promotion any student who has less
than 90% attendance. Days present for transfer students will include
those obtained in Heavenly Host Lutheran School and all other schools
for the year or semester. At the end of each month, attendance and
dismissal patterns will be reviewed to determine academic impact. If
necessary, a conference will be scheduled.
Exceptions to the Minimum Attendance Standards
The Board of Education recognizes that exceptional circumstances
beyond a child's control may arise which will result in failure to
meet the minimum attendance standards.
The parents/guardians of any child who is subject to failure under
the provisions of this policy may be notified. The parents will also
be notified of their right to apply for a waiver of the policy. The
parent's appeal must be in writing, and must explain in detail why
the student was hindered from attending the required number of school
days.
Upon receipt of an appeal, the administrator may appoint a hearing
committee to consider the parent's written appeal and may consider
the student's academic record, standardized and other test scores,
and written excuse notes for the absences. Upon receiving
recommendation from the committee, the administrator may issue or
deny the waiver. Unfavorable decisions may be appealed in writing by
the parent to the Board of Education.
Absences from School
An absence occurs when a student is not in attendance for 4 hours at
Heavenly Host Lutheran School. Absences are discouraged, but will be
recorded as an excused absence by the administrator for personal
illness, death in the family, or approved extra-curricular
activities. With prior approval from the administrator, other reasons
may be acceptable. Please notify the school before 8:15 A.M.
explaining the reason for absence. If the office has not been
notified by 8:15 A.M. concerning the absence of a child, an attempt
will be made to determine the cause of absence. Upon returning to
school, a written explanation of the absence must accompany the
child. A written note is not required if we have received prior
notice.
Excuse notes from parents should clearly state the reason the student
has been absent. Notes from professionals should state the period of
time the child was required to be absent from school.
Failure on the part of the parent/guardian to provide some form of
notification of the absence will result in an unexcused absence. In
the event that some form of notification is not received, the parent
will be contacted.
The school strongly discourages children leaving school early for
appointments, recreational activities, and lessons. Early dismissals
will be subject to a tardy, which may be unexcused.
In the event that a child leaves the school grounds for any reason
during the instructional day, the person responsible for the child
must sign the child out in the office and HHLS staff will be
responsible for escorting the child to the parent.
Students will make up all work not completed due to excused absences
from school. Incomplete work will be made up by a time designated by
the teacher. Make up work for vacations and trips may be assigned
selectively at the teacher's discretion. All tests missed during
trips and vacations will be taken upon the student's return to school.
Tardiness
School begins promptly at 8:00 A.M. A student who is not in his/her
seat with the required materials at 8:00 is late and will be marked
TARDY. Students entering the building after 8:00 A.M. must be
accompanied to the office by a parent, who must sign in the student.
School personnel will see that the child gets to the classroom.
Faculty and administration discourage early pick-ups. Early
dismissals may be subject to an unexcused tardy. The office will
determine if the tardy is excused or unexcused.
The administrator may contact the parent of a student who has 4
tardies in a 9-week grading period.
When a student has accumulated 6 tardies in a 9 week grading period
the administrator will request a conference with the parent.
Eight (8) unexcused tardies in a 9-week grading period constitutes an
unexcused absence.
Please notify the office by 8:15 A.M. concerning student's late
arrival. If the office has not been notified by 8:15 A.M. concerning
the tardiness of a child, an attempt will be made to determine the
cause of the tardiness.
BOOK FAIRS
Book Fairs are held each year. These Book Fairs will feature books
from Scholastic, Concordia, or other comparable vendors. Proceeds
will help to build school and classroom libraries. Volunteers will
assist with the book fairs. While every effort will be made to see
that books are appropriate, the school will not censor books; this is
considered a parental responsibility.
Bullying Policy
At Heavenly Host Lutheran School no acts of bullying behavior will be
ignored. Teachers will actively and consistently teach positive
behavior, redirecting aggressive or harassing behavior, using Jesus
as the model of behavior.
Definition
Bullying includes but is not limited to: name calling; mean teasing;
harassing; making fun of; mocking; irritating; annoying; pushing;
grabbing; shoving; poking; tripping; kicking; taking or destroying
property; excluding others; spreading rumors; play fighting.
Policy Procedure
Students who are caught in the act of bullying will be subject to the
discipline process as described in the handbook and outlined below.
1.Warning-When a minor incident occurs, the teacher will take the
opportunity to help students define bullying and to express the
inappropriateness of bullying, referencing Jesus’ example of reaching
out in love and kindness and practicing the blessings of the Holy
Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness,
faithfulness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Teacher will
document the incident and response
2.Inform parents-Teachers will keep parents informed of their child’s
behavior. Document the conversation.
3.Inform\confer with Principal-The principal is involved after the
warning has occurred. Confer with principal who will contact parents
and if necessary, arrange a meeting with teachers and parents.
Teacher will bring the documentation to the meeting with the
principal. Principal will document contact with parents.
4.Conference with parents and principal-Gather invested staff persons
and discuss the situation. Documentation will be kept.
Options for Action:
I. Consult with Pastor
II. Draw-up a behavior contract
III. Suggest counseling options
5. Time-out in classroom or principal's office. To be documented.
6.Removing privileges - Loss of privileges and/or special activities;
i.e., recess, student council, sports. Parents notified and
documentation kept.
7.In-School suspension in Principal’s office - Student may spend from
1 hour to 1 day in in-school suspension in the principal’s office.
Principal will document and contact parents.
8.Suspension from school - After consultation with the Principal,
Pastor, and the School Bd. Chair, the student may be suspended for 1-
3 days out of school. The student may be asked to develop a plan for
positive behavior. Principal will document notification of parent
and student.
9.Expulsion - When every effort to correct the inappropriate behavior
has met with no success, and after consulting with parents, teachers,
Pastor, and the HHLS School Bd., the principal may expel the
student. Minutes of the expulsion meeting will kept. All records
will be placed in the school’s records on the student.
10.Unless the student is expelled for legal violations, those records
remain a part of HHLS record and do not follow the student.
Should criminal intent become obvious, law enforcement will be
notified.
Approved Sept. 25, 2007
CELEBRATIONS
Classrooms may celebrate these holidays and events:
1.Fall
2.Christmas
3.100 Day
4.Valentine’s Day (elementary grades)
5.End of the year/field day
The Christmas party and Valentine’s Day party will be held from 1:30 –
3:00 P.M. The Fall party, 100-Day party, and End of the Year party
may be held off premises. Volunteers need to meet with the teacher
and follow the guidelines set by the classroom and the school.
CHAPEL
Chapel will be held on a weekly basis. Parents are welcome to
attend. Students are to wear dress uniforms. Please refer to
the “Dress Code” section of this handbook for appropriate chapel
dress. Please refrain from flash photography or video camera use
during chapel services. Arrangements can be made to take pictures
after the service.
CLASSROOM MEETINGS
There will be a classroom meeting conducted for parents at the
beginning of the school year. Other meetings may be held at the
teacher's discretion. The purpose of the meeting will include, but
not be limited to, familiarizing parents with classroom procedures,
curriculum, and expectations. Classroom meetings are for the PARENTS
ONLY.
CONFERENCES
A fall conference will be held with your child’s homeroom teacher to
discuss student progress. Teachers of specific subject areas or
parents may request a conference at any time. Please refrain from
discussing issues and concerns with teachers during the school day,
which begins at 7:45 A.M. These conferences may be held before or
after school hours, or on designated conference days. Specific dates
will be announced to you either by the school’s monthly newsletter
(Heavenly Headlines) or through the individual teacher’s weekly
newsletter. Every effort will be made to arrange a time convenient
for the parents.
As a courtesy to teachers, phone calls should be made no later than
8:30 P.M. Parents are encouraged to visit the school and
classrooms. Please make prior arrangements through the office.
Please sign in and notify someone in the office when you come to
visit so you can be escorted to the classroom.
If a question concerning classroom policy or procedure should arise,
parents should contact the teacher, in writing or by phone, for an
appointment.
CURRICULUM
HHLS curriculum is chosen to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth
by the State of Tennessee. Parents may view the curriculum at
classroom meetings or other pre-arranged times.
HHLS strives to be creative in the preparation and presentation of
all areas of class work. HHLS also seeks to meet the needs of the
various learning styles and developmental stages of each child in the
classroom. Field trips and resource people will be used to enhance
the course of study. At HHLS, Christ will be in all that we do,
including the curriculum.
DISCIPLINE
The goal of discipline at Heavenly Host Lutheran School is to teach
students self-control, Christian attitudes, orderliness, and
efficiency, rather than to punish them. Teachers interact with
students in accordance with the teachings and philosophy of Christ.
Teachers consider actions acceptable for certain stages of growth.
Teachers redirect actions when necessary, and stop any behavior or
conduct that interferes with teaching activities. Students are
taught to love, serve, and respect one another’s rights and
privileges.
All students are expected to:
A. Be respectful to adults
B. Be kind and respectful to fellow students
C. Be respectful of school property
D. Come to class prepared for the day
E. Complete work neatly and turn in on time
F. Think safety first
DISCIPLINE POLICY 1st-4th Grades
Rules
Be Respectful
Be Responsible
….because we are to (R2) be Christlike.
Consequences for Breaking the Rules
1st infraction – a mark on the clipboard listed as a warning
2nd infraction – a mark on the clipboard and loss of privilege
3rd infraction – a mark on the clipboard, loss of privilege, and a
demerit
Any subsequent marks may result in a conference with the teacher,
principal, continued loss of privilege, etc.
For 1st grade, the marks on the clipboard “reset” every day at mid-
day and at the end of the day. So, students start over at lunch and
also start over the next day with a “0.”
For 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades, the marks on the clipboard “reset” each
day. So, students start off every day with a “0.”
R2
Students can earn R2s for doing good things. A teacher completes the
R2 about the student, the student brings the R2 to the office for a
treat. The R2 paper goes into a bucket. Names are drawn
approximately every 2 weeks for an additional reward.
“No Demerit” Movie Reward
At the end of every 9 weeks, any student without a demerit for that 9
weeks is invited to the “No Demerit Movie.” Student who did receive
a demerit will remain in a supervised classroom working on other
activities.
MIDDLE SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
A copy of the Behavior Tracking Sheet used by the Middle School
teachers is inserted after this page. Letter C. “Unprepared for
class” includes failure to dress-out for P.E. Class.
Severe clause – Per state law, teachers and administration have the
right to immediately remove a student from the premises when
threatening or carrying out violent acts. Such acts will not be
tolerated and will be subject to permanent dismissal from the school.
Behavior Probation
Realizing that attitudes influence behavior, Heavenly Host Lutheran
School places great emphasis on the student's attitude. Believing
that attitudes affect not only the student but also his/her peers,
HHLS reserves the right to dismiss a student for negative attitudes.
If counseling and discipline have failed to make a positive change, a
probation period may be imposed. The length of the probation is at
the discretion of the administration. The reasons behavior probation
is placed on any individual student includes, but are not limited to:
1. Consistently breaking school rules
2. Using language that is considered foul, slanderous, disrespectful,
or blasphemous
3. Failing to complete assignments over an extended period of time
4. Committing acts of violence against any person or property
5. Consistently displaying negative attitudes toward school and/or
others
6. Behaving in a way that brings adverse publicity to the school
{The Behavior Tracking Sheet is utilized by Middle School and travels
with each grade-level class throughout the day. Each chart lists the
students' names and the days of the week, with spaces to record
infractions. The infraction codes listed on the Behavior Tracking
Sheet are: A.Disobedience to adults; B.Unkind or disrespectful of
peers; C.Unprepared for class (this includes failure to dress out for
P.E.); D.Missing Homework (H indicates "missing homework;" H on 3
days equals a demerit); E.Talking or being too loud; F.Other
Disruptions. Consequences are listed as: 1 demerit - call home; 2
demerits - day in office; 3 demerits - conference.}
DRESS CODE
Students are required to wear uniforms purchased from Dennis Larose
School Uniforms with the exception of HHLS t-shirts, HHLS Hooded
sweatshirt, belts, socks, and shoes. It is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian to see that their child is properly dressed for the
school day. A written reminder will be sent for the first uniform
violation. Failure to comply with the HHLS dress code will result in
the parent’s being called to bring proper clothing.
DRESS UNIFORM: Each child will need at least one complete DRESS
UNIFORM. Solid colored shoes are to be worn with the dress uniform.
Shirt and blouse sleeves must be worn down and buttoned; shirts must
be tucked in.
*Other uniform pieces required for all students are khaki pants and a
navy polo shirt. While only one navy polo shirt is required, it is
suggested that students have both long and short sleeves due to
seasonal changes.
*Field trips will require either dress uniforms or khaki pants with
navy polo shirts. This decision will be based on the nature of the
field trip and is left to the discretion of the teacher. Students
not in compliance with the required uniform will not be allowed to
attend the field trip.
*Shoes that fasten or tie are required for the sake of safety.
Western style boots, clogs, open-toe shoes, open-backed shoes, shoes
with elevated heels, and shoes with lights wheels, and/or sound
effects are not permitted. Socks must be worn at all times. In the
event that these guidelines are not followed, parents will be called
to bring another pair of shoes.
*Non-uniform sweatshirts, sweaters, and jackets may not be worn in
the school building. Hats, bandanas and do-rags (head scarves) are
not to be worn in the building.
*Shorts/skirts/skorts must fall to the fingertips or no more than 3
inches above the knee.
The Administration reserves the right to make decisions concerning
dress code and appearance as needed.
Girls Uniforms
K-3
Girls Dress Uniform (K-3) Warmer Weather
Drop waist jumper in plaid
White round-collared blouse, short sleeve
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Girls Dress Uniform (K-3) Cooler Weather
Drop waist jumper in plaid
White round-collared blouse, long sleeve or short sleeve
Navy Cardigan sweater
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)/or
Tights: black or navy
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Girls are not permitted to wear pants under the uniform skirt
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Girls Daily Wear (K-3) Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, skirt, or skort
Solid polo shirts long or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
white, light blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Girls Daily Wear (K-3) Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, skort or short
Solid polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, white, light
blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
Girls Casual Friday (K-3)
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, skort or short
(season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
white, light blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
T-shirts will not be allowed with plaid
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Girls Uniforms
Grades 4-5-6-7-8
Girls Dress Uniform (4-5-6-7-8) Warmer Weather
Plaid skirt or plaid skort (4th graders may wear plaid jumper if
desired)
White button-down oxford shirt, short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Girls Dress Uniform (4-5-6-7-8) Cooler Weather
Plaid skirt or skort (4th graders may wear plaid jumper if desired)
White button-down, long sleeve or short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks: white, black, or navy (long or short socks)/or
Tights or leggings: black or navy only
Navy vest
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed
Pants may not be worn under a skirt
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Girls Daily Wear (4-5-6-7-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pants, any skirt, or approved skort
(4th graders may wear jumper)
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, white, light blue,
pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
Pants may not be worn under a skirt
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Girls Daily Wear (4-5-6-7-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, short or approved
skort; (4th graders) jumper
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors navy, red, green, white, light blue,
pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
Girls Casual Friday (4-5-6-7-8)
Khaki, navy or plaid items - pant, capri, skirt, approved skort or
short (season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
white, light blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Plaid may only be worn with navy, red, green or white polo shirts
T-shirts will not be allowed with plaid
Girls Gym Clothes (5-6-7-8)
Gray T-Shirt (HHLS or plain; no logo of any kind)
Black or Navy Sweat Pants or Shorts (plain; no logo of any kind)
Socks
Athletic Shoes
Girls Other Approved Items (K-8)
Sweatshirt (navy)
Hooded zip up sweatshirt (navy)
Fleece Jacket, Pullover or Vest (red)
Boys Uniforms
K-8
Boys Dress Uniform (K-8) Warmer Weather
Khaki pants or shorts with belt
White button-down oxford shirt, short sleeve (tucked in)
Socks
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Boys Dress Uniform (K-8) Cooler Weather
Khaki pants with belt
White button-down oxford shirt long sleeve, or short sleeve (tucked
in)
Navy vest
Socks
Shoes (preferred dark dress shoes, clean crisp tennis shoes allowed)
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Boys Daily Wear (K-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Cooler Weather
Khaki or navy pants
Polo shirts long sleeve or short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green,
white, light blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Only HHLS sweatshirts or sweatshirts with NO logo may be worn in
classrooms
Boys Daily Wear (K-8) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Warmer Weather
Khaki or navy pants or shorts
Polo shirts short sleeve (colors: navy, red, green, white, light
blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Boys Casual Friday (K-8)
Khaki or navy pants or shorts (season permitting)
Blue Jeans if earned
Any Heavenly Host Lutheran School T-Shirt
Polo shirt long sleeve or short sleeve (colors navy, red, green,
white, light blue, pink)
Socks
Shoes
Boys Gym Clothes (5-6-7-8)
Gray T-Shirt (HHLS or plain; no logo of any kind)
Black or Navy Sweat Pants or Shorts (plain; no logo of any kind)
Socks
Athletic Shoes
Boys Other Approved Items
Sweatshirt (navy
Fleece Jacket, Pullover or Vest (red)
Hooded zip up sweatshirt (navy)
ADDITIONAL DRESS CODE INFORMATION FOR ALL STUDENTS
“Out of Uniform” Days
When students are not in uniform while attending HHLS, they will be
expected to adhere to the following dress code.
Shirts
1.No muscle shirts or tank tops (boys).
2.No low-cut tops.
3.No form-fitting clothing.
4.Shirts must be long enough to cover the back and belly when arms
are raised.
5.No spaghetti straps.
6.Sleeveless tops are permitted, but no underclothing can show.
Shorts/Slacks/Skirts
1.Shorts/skirts must fall to the fingertips or no more than 3 inches
above the knee.
2.Slacks/jeans/pants/shorts, etc., must have no holes.
3.Pants must fit appropriately at the waist with no
underclothing showing.
All Clothing
1.No “inappropriate” writing on the clothing; i.e., no racist or
sexist remarks, no advertising for beer, cigarettes, etc.
2.All clothing must be size-appropriate, neither too baggy nor too
tight.
3.No flip-flops. Shoes must be firmly attached to the feet. The
same footwear guidelines apply on non-uniform days as on uniform
days.
POLICY ON ELECTRONICS
Students MAY NOT bring electronics to school. This includes, but is
not limited to: Palm pilots, CD players, Gameboys, and cell phones.
If approved by the teacher, students will be allowed to bring
calculators for math class.
In an emergency, if a parent needs to get in touch with a child who
is on a field trip, the parent may call the school. The school will
then contact one of the adults on the trip who has a cell phone.
Any time prohibited items are brought to school, the item will be
confiscated and demerits may be issued.
EMERGENCY DRILLS AND PROCEDURES
Fire drills
Fire drills will be conducted monthly as required by the State Fire
Marshal. An exit map will be posted in the classroom. Teachers are
responsible for establishing classroom fire drill procedures and
making children familiar with them. Children will be counted and roll
called as needed. Hallway doors will be closed, and bathroom doors
will be opened. If a fire drill occurs while class is outside, the
teacher will gather the children in a safe location, and determine
the presence of children in each class.
Tornado Drill
Children will move to designated areas and follow tornado procedure.
At least one drill will be practiced annually
Safety Plan
The school has developed a Safety Plan. Copies are in the school
office and library. Safety drills and lockdown drills will be held
periodically.
FACULTY DEVOTIONS
The faculty sets aside 7:30-7:45 A.M. each day for personal
devotions. At 7:45 A.M. the teachers go to their respective
classrooms, and teacher supervision of children begins. Children
arriving before 7:45 A.M. will report to Early Bird Care.
FEES
All families are required to sign and fulfill the terms of the
contract for the payment of all tuition and registration fees. You
will receive a monthly statement that includes any balances due and
the next month's tuition fee. It may also include unpaid lunches, and
late pick-up charges. There will be a separate billing for After-
Care. Accounts will be reviewed each month.
IMPORTANT CHANGE: Beginning with the 2009-2010 school year, all
tuition payments are required to be made by automatic draft. A form
for your convenience is included in the registration packet. The
automatic withdrawal will be made from your account on the 5th day of
each month. If you change any of your account information, it is
your responsibility to notify the office. Failure to let us know
your updated information will result in fees for NSF and late charges.
In addition, these conditions still exist:
A. The Board of Education may suspend the right of the students to
receive reports and records, pending payment to the school of
delinquent fees.
B. At its sole option, the Board of Education may suspend or
terminate the attendance of any student when payment of fees is in
arrears by an amount equal to 20% (2 months) of the yearly tuition
and has not been received by the school within five (5) school days
after the mailing of a request for payment at the address given on
the registration form.
For information pertaining to the registration fees, contracts, or
other questions regarding fees, contact the administrator.
Non-Sufficient Funds Checks (NSF)
For fees paid by check: Returned checks may be charged a $50.00 fee.
After two (2) NSF returned checks, future payments must be made by
cash, money order, or cashiers check.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips will have a specific, educational purpose. Many
worthwhile opportunities for educational trips are available as an
extension of the curriculum. Students are expected to attend field
trips unless there is a medical reason for non-attendance. Careful
planning is always necessary before leaving the school grounds. Each
teacher is responsible for his/her students. This responsibility is
shared with adult chaperones/drivers.
A signed written permission form is required prior to each trip. The
permission form will include a trip description, location, dates,
times, uniform requirements, number of seat belts for children, and
driver and chaperone requests. Verbal permission from parents will
not be accepted. Other arrangements will be made for the supervision
of children without written permission while the class is on the
trip. Every effort will be made to give adequate notice for a trip.
However, opportunities may arise that call for spontaneity and
flexibility. All parents who are driving for a school-sponsored event
must have a completed volunteer driver form on file with the school.
The primary concern of the teachers and administration is the safety
of the students.
Each driver/chaperone is responsible for the students in his/her
vehicle, and he/she is responsible for monitoring the students'
safety and behavior for the duration of the field trip. Because of
this responsibility, siblings (of any age) will not be permitted on
field trips. Teachers should be informed of both positive and
negative student behavior during the field trip.
ALL STUDENTS/PARENTS/FIELD TRIP PARTICIPANTS MUST WEAR SEAT BELTS
WHILE BEING TRANSPORTED.
While on field trips, students, teachers, and parents are
representing Heavenly Host Lutheran School. Students are to behave
appropriately and safely. Administration reserves the right to
revoke future field trip privileges for students exhibiting
inappropriate behavior.
GUIDELINES FOR PARENT CHAPERONES
1.If a parent is planning to attend a field trip, s/he must sign up
on the field trip permission note and talk to the teacher about
attending.
2.Parent chaperones must stay with the group and supervise the
assigned children at all times.
3.Parents should follow the dress code for “Out of Uniform Days,” as
stated in this Handbook.
4.Pursuant to TN State law 0520-12-1-.10N smoking is not allowed in
the presence of children. Smoking is NOT allowed on field trips.
FIELD TRIPS -- School Board Policy 1/26/05
Given the limited time that teachers have to interact with
students, it is of critical importance that such time is used in the
most productive ways possible. As a result, both traditional
classroom as well as non-classroom activities such as field trips are
to be planned in order to meet this objective. Classroom activities
are typically driven by the curriculum provided. In order to assist
in providing direction for the use of student time in conjunction
with field trip activities, the following guidelines are to be
utilized.
Purpose: Field trips stimulate and enhance academic learning in
conjunction with curriculum standards. Field trips require extra
time and effort from teachers and parents. Field trips may be planned
for one of the following reasons:
1.1. To complete or compliment a unit of study
1.2. To launch a unit of study
1.3. To network or team together with students from other schools
1.4. To attend special events
Guiding Principle: All participants on a school trip will at all
times act as ambassadors for Christ and for Heavenly Host Lutheran
School.
2.1 While representing our school community, participants will
conduct themselves courteously and responsibly. Participants will
demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and others' property.
1. The Principal is responsible for ensuring that all field trip
activities provided by the school are integrated with the curriculum
currently being taught.
2. In approving field trips the principal will consider the impact
such trips have on the completion of the yearlong instructional
objectives for each individual class. In addition the principal will
attempt to schedule field trip experiences which are not duplicative
for students as they proceed through the various grade levels in the
school.
3. The principal will develop an integrated field trip experiential
calendar by October 15 of each school year. The calendar should
include: date of activity, grade/class involved, learning activity
involved, and learning outcomes expected.
The testing schedules for criterion-referenced testing, norm-
referenced testing, functional testing, and final exams are to be
primary considerations in planning.
Student Behavioral Expectations
3.1. At all times students will:
3.1.1. Demonstrate respect for all rules and regulations
3.1.2. Cooperate with those in authority
3.1.3. Respectfully pay attention to instructions, information,
guided tours, and visual presentations.
3.2. Any student who fails to meet these expectations, or who
demonstrates dangerous or anti-social behavior will be sent home
immediately at his/her parent's expense.
Trip Leadership
4.1. A school staff member shall be designated as trip leader and
shall be responsible for implementation of field trip policy.
4.2. For overnight field trips, the leader will communicate with the
school at least twice each day. All unforeseen changes will be
reported immediately to the school secretary who will inform the
school administrator and parents.
4.3. Staff members responsible for trip will carry a cell phone,
first aid kit, parent permission forms, emergency medical forms, and
emergency phone numbers.
4.4. Student to Adult supervision ratios - the following ratios will
be strictly observed
4.4.1. Kindergarten 5/1
4.4.2. Grades 1-3 6/1
4.4.3. Grades 4-6 8/1
4.4.4. Grades 7-8 10/1
4.4.5. Students with special needs may require 1/1 supervision. This
decision is left to the teacher and/or school administrator.
4.5. Adult chaperones will include teachers, administrators, parents,
or legal guardians.
4.6. All students must be directly supervised 24 hours per day.
Adults must remain with the group at all times.
4.7 While cell phones are good for emergencies, they can cause
distractions while driving and participating in field trips. Please
use good cell phone etiquette such as reducing or terminating ringer
volume, screening calls, using voice mail, talking quietly when you
have to talk. Please do not use the phone while you are driving.
FUND-RAISERS
The parent group (P.T.L.S.) sponsors many fund-raisers to support
activities or special needs for the school.
GRADING PROCEDURES/REPORTING
The school year at HHLS consists of 180 days divided into (4) nine-
week grading periods for kindergarten through eighth grade. Progress
reports are issued the Friday following the close of the grading
period. Additionally, mid-term progress reports are issued at
the "mid-point” of each grading period (first grade and above).
Parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers regarding student
progress.
Kindergarten will use the following grading system.
Behavior/Skill consistently evident
Behavior/Skill developing
Not evaluated.
First and second grades will use the following grading system.
Percentages will be given for Reading, Math, Spelling and English.
S (satisfactory), N (needs improvement), and I (improving) will be
used in all other areas.
Third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grades: All major
subject areas will be graded on a percentage scale. Elective classes
will be reported using S for satisfactory, I for improving, and N for
needs improvement.
Grading procedures and policies will be discussed at classroom
meetings.
HOMEWORK
Homework for all children at HHLS should include nightly reading by,
and/or to the child. Homework expectations will vary according to
grade level. Teachers will inform parents of specific homework
requirements during the classroom meetings.
HEALTH POLICY
Children are to be free of vomiting, diarrhea and fever FOR 24 HOURS
WITHOUT THE AID OF MEDICATION BEFORE RETURNING TO SCHOOL.
For the safety and health of all, HHLS has the option to ask the
parent to pick up a child that is determined too ill to be at school.
Children with the following illnesses are not permitted to attend:
Chicken Pox: until the last crop of blisters has dried into scabs.
Generally six days after the onset of the rash.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): until the physician has been contacted and
medication has been administered for 24 hours.
Giardiasis: until the child receives a medical examination, has
started treatment, and has physician approval to return to the
school.
Head Lice: until the child is nit free.
Impetigo: until sores have been treated with an antibiotic and
covered. If sores persist or spread, the child is excluded until
there is physician approval to return to the school.
Measles: until 4 days after the rash appears.
Mumps: until 1 week after the swelling begins.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): until 5-7 days after antibiotic treatment
begins.
Pinworms: until after the treatment has been started.
Respiratory Infections/Respiratory Illness: until child is fever-free
for 24 hours without the aid of medication
Ringworm: until 24 hours after treatment begins.
Rubella (German Measles): until 5 days after treatment is completed.
Scabies: until 24 hours after treatment is completed.
Strep Throat/Scarlet Fever: until 24 hours after treatment begins and
fever is gone.
Temperature: until child is fever-free (100 deg. or less) for 24
hours without the aid of medication
Please let the teacher know when your child is not feeling well so
that we may be on the alert for other symptoms.
Prior arrangements should be made to have an emergency contact
person. The procedure for sick children is as follows:
1. The office will attempt to contact the parent or emergency contact
person.
2. If contact cannot be made within one hour, the administrator
assumes responsibility for the care of the child.
3. In emergency situations, it may be necessary for the school to
call 911 or transport the child to the emergency room.
INTERNET USAGE
Adopted 10/28/08
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to set guidelines for Internet
Usage on the HHLS Campus per TCA Title 49, Chapter 1, Part 2, and
Senate Bill 3702.
Scope: This policy applies to all HHLS students, faculty, and staff.
Responsibility: The HHLS Teachers and Administrator have direct
responsibility for administering this policy and monitoring Internet
use by students.
HHLS will maintain appropriate filters for the Internet.
Policy: Because we believe that the Internet can be a valuable
learning tool, HHLS students will participate in projects throughout
the year using the Internet. A teacher must supervise all Internet
usage. These projects will be directed for educational purposes and
curriculum support. Guidelines for Internet usage are as follows:
Student Responsibilities:
Maintain your Christian integrity when using this tool.
Visit approved Internet sites. Teacher’s written approved web sites
must be posted at the computer station in order for students to visit
approved sites.
Only use the Internet for educational purposes during school hours.
Other teacher-approved sites may be visited before and after school,
with teacher permission
Honor all copyright laws.
Minimize unnecessary use that may interfere with the ability of
others to use the Internet.
Students May Not:
Send or receive e-mail or instant message
Send or display offensive messages or pictures
Use obscene language
Harass, insult, or attack others
Construct personal web pages
Share passwords
Use the Internet to copy software or plagiarize
Reveal personal information
Damage computer, computer systems, or computer networks
Attempt to circumvent the filter
Violations and Consequences:
If a student finds him/herself on an inappropriate site accidentally,
he/she MUST notify the teachers immediately.
If the teacher is immediately notified, it will be considered an
accident, and no disciplinary action will be taken toward the student.
Sanctions:
1.Violations of the rules will result in a temporary or permanent
loss of Internet privileges.
2.Additional disciplinary action may be added in line with existing
practice on inappropriate language or behaviors.
3.When applicable, police or local authorities may be involved.
Teachers will teach Internet safety to students before allowing them
to use the computers. They will:
Identify appropriate websites
Discuss appropriate computer use with students
Post appropriate websites near the computers in each classroom
All Faculty and Staff will:
Use Christian values while searching the Internet
Avoid sites that contain obscene or offensive language or pictures
except as needed for educational purposes (Holocaust studies, etc.)
Parents are encouraged to be aware of their child's Internet use at
home. Please discuss the need for personal safety and privacy while
accessing the Internet.
Using trained personnel, HHLS will provide training for parents and
students on Internet safety on an annual basis.
LIBRARY
Students will attend library on a weekly basis. Children will be
allowed to check out one book for a period of one week. Books will be
due back before library time the following week. Books lost or
damaged will be charged to the student (minimum twenty dollars
hardback--ten dollars paperback processed). Checkout privileges will
be suspended until the book is either returned or replaced.
LIBRARY -- Challenged Literature
Purpose: To create an avenue for questioning literature
being used in the HHLS library.
Scope: The policy applies to all HHLS students.
Responsibility: The administrator and the school librarian.
Policy: If a piece of literature in the HHLS library is
challenged by a student, parent, or faculty member, he/she must:
1. Present the material to be challenged to the librarian.
2. Obtain a challenge form from the librarian
3. Complete and return to librarian.
The librarian presents challenge form to the principal and arranges a
meeting with parent, principal and librarian to discuss the challenge
and reach an agreement as to the dismissal or approval of the
literature.
If an agreement cannot be reached - the challenge is presented with a
recommendation to the school board by the principal.
The school board makes a final judgment concerning the challenge.
LUNCH/SNACK
Parents are encouraged to send healthy, nutritious snacks with their
child. The purpose of snack is to maintain energy levels, and to
maintain daily requirements for nutrition. Drinks for snack must be
brought from home. High sugar/caffeine “energy drinks” are
discouraged.
Lunches may be purchased by ordering in advance from Terri Sergio.
Milk is served with lunch and available daily. A menu will be sent
home and is to be returned to the homeroom promptly. Payment must be
made by check only, payable to Sergio & Co. Specific costs are
determined at the beginning of each year.
Parents may send a sack lunch/drink/snack with their child at any
time. Please send a lunch that your child can manage independently.
If you are sending a lunch from home please include the needed
condiments and utensils. The school does not provide these items.
Those not buying milk are responsible for providing their own drink.
Students will not be allowed to refrigerate or microwave snacks,
drinks, or lunches. The use of cold packs is recommended for sack
lunches and drinks. Please do not send glass containers. Juice
pouches, squeeze bottles, drink boxes, or any labeled, reusable
plastic container with a lid is acceptable. All other containers and
carbonated beverages are prohibited. Please label all personal items
from home with your child’s name.
If a child forgets his/her lunch, or does not have a lunch at the
scheduled lunch time, a lunch will be provided for him/her. A note
will be sent home for the cost of the lunch.
HHLS expects children to use appropriate manners and behavior in the
lunchroom. The first 10 minutes of each lunch period may be silent
to allow ample eating time.
Parents are welcome to come and have lunch with their child at
school. Prior arrangements need to be made for your own lunch. If
parents choose to take their child off premises for lunch, the
student must return before classes resume or an unexcused tardy will
be given.
Fast food meals/hot meals brought in that day by parents are
discouraged and will not be eaten in the lunchroom. A designated
area will be set aside for the parent and child to eat together.
Fast foods/hot meals are defined as:
1.Food from drive-up windows, such as Taco Bell and McDonalds
2.Chinese food or other hot food in restaurant containers
Cold sandwiches, such as Subway’s, or soups are allowed. The
guideline to follow is: if the item can be purchased the day before
and packed in student lunch boxes, it is acceptable for the lunchroom.
In honor of a child's birthday, a parent may choose to provide a
snack during the regular snack time.
MEDICATIONS
Students who are under a doctor's care and need to take prescribed
medicine during the school day are to follow the medication policy of
the school. It is most desirable for medication to be administered in
the home or at the physician's office rather than at school. However,
any student who is required to take medication during the regular
school day must comply with the following regulations.
1. All medications which are physician prescribed must be accompanied
by written orders detailing the name of the student, date, name of
the medication, dosage, and the time interval the medication is to be
taken.
2. The parent or guardian must request in writing, via the medication
form, that the school comply with the physician's medication order.
This note should include phone number(s) in case of question or
emergency. Be sure to sign the permission note.
3. Medication is to be brought to the school medicine box by the
parent or guardian (NOT THE STUDENT). The medication must be in its
original container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or
physician. Means of dispensing the medication must also be provided
by the parents or guardian when appropriate; i.e., spoon, measuring
cup, etc.
4. The teaching staff will not administer medication to students nor
allow students to self-administer medication. Cough drops, however,
may be kept in the teacher’s desk in a labeled container for the
student.
5. Aspirins will be administered by parents only.
6. All medication, including Rolaids and anti-itch creams will be
kept secure by the school office, not on the child's person, desk,
locker, or by the teacher.
7. Prescribed asthmatic inhalers may be carried by the student with
the knowledge of the office and the teacher.
8. Parents are responsible for removing any unused medication from
the school office at the end of the treatment regime, or it will be
discarded.
9. The administration reserves the right to make medication
decisions based on specific concerns.
PARENTS AND TEACHERS IN LUTHERAN SCHOOLS (PTLS)
HHLS enjoys a very active, supportive parent group. By having a child
enrolled at HHLS parents are automatically members of this group.
The support, encouragement, and involvement of PTLS are of great
benefit to our school. PTLS meetings are held on a regular basis.
You are encouraged to participate.
PARENT/STUDENT GRIEVANCES
If a student and his/her parent feel aggrieved on account of any
policy of the Board, the administrator, or a teacher, the parent
shall use the following procedure:
If the grievance is with a teacher, contact the teacher immediately
and discuss the problem with the teacher. The teacher is expected to
solve the problem.
(For a variety of reasons, some parents are reluctant to confront
teachers directly with their concerns about classroom practices.
They prefer to discuss these matters with the administrator. The
administrator should first encourage such parents to speak directly
with the teacher. Many parents, however, will refuse, citing a
variety of reasons. In such situations, administrators should ask
the teacher to use the Matthew 5:23-24 principle, which
says, “Therefore, if you…remember that your brother has something
against you…go and be reconciled to your brother…” Administrators
should lovingly make teachers aware of the complaints registered by
parents and urge them to follow Matthew 5 by going to the parents or
students they have offended.
For all other grievances – including unresolved teacher grievances –
contact the school administrator and set forth in detail, either
written or verbally, the action or policy that is the basis for the
grievance. The administrator will be responsible for solving the
problem.
If the grievance is not settled within a reasonable time - the parent
and the administrator will mutually agree on the timeframe – the
parent shall contact the Board chair. The Board chair may either
refer the matter back to the administrator or may set a meeting
between himself, the administrator, the parent and other appropriate
parties.
If the grievance is still not settled, the parent may file a written
statement with the Board and request a meeting with the whole Board
or a Board designated committee. At the next regularly scheduled
Board meeting – the Board chair may, at his/her discretion, call for
a special Board meeting – the Board will meet with the parent and all
parties involved in the dispute.
Following the conference, but not later than the next regularly
scheduled meeting, the Board will communicate its decision in
writing, together with supporting reasons, to all parties in
interest. The Board decision is the final step in the procedure
In Administering this policy:
A parent and/or student will never appear before the Board without
the offending person’s also being present and given a chance to
defend him/herself.
No reprisals of any kind will be taken by any party to this procedure
against any party in interest, any witness, or any other participant
in the procedure.
The procedure above is the sole and only course available to any
aggrieved person.
All parties concerned will treat the grievance as confidential
information.
All grievances will be processed as rapidly as possible.
Definitions
Grievance: any event or situation that affects the conditions or
circumstances of a parent and/or student, allegedly caused by
misinterpretation or unfair application of established policies or
regulations
Parent and/or student: the person(s) making the claim and any person
who might be required to take action, or against whom action might be
taken, in order to resolve the problem.
RETENTION
The school board, administration, and the classroom teacher have the
final say concerning retention. A final core average of 70%, across
the curriculum, will be REQUIRED for promotion to the next grade.
SAFETY
Parents should constantly remind their children of the need to
practice good rules of safety at all times. Children should be
conscious of the need for safety in the school building as well as on
the school grounds. A member(s) of the faculty and/or staff is always
on supervisory duty during school hours.
Written permission (from a parent) is required for anyone, other than
the parent, taking a child off school grounds. Students should always
be signed-out in the office when leaving the school grounds during
the day.
Parents must provide written notification of any pending legal or
domestic situation that could affect the safety and welfare of their
child.
As required by law and local code, the school will exercise routine
drills to prepare for fire and tornadoes.
General Safety
Running, ball throwing, chasing or rowdy conduct will not be
tolerated inside the building. This includes school hours and school-
sponsored events held after school hours.
Shoes that fasten or tie are required for the sake of safety. Western
style boots, clogs, open-toe shoes, open-backed shoes, flip-flops,
and shoes with heels are not permitted. In the event that these
guidelines are not followed, parents will be called to bring another
pair of shoes.
HHLS has a zero tolerance policy for any weapons on campus. Under
no conditions may toy guns, rubber band shooters, bows and arrows,
knives, or any other weapon-like objects be permitted. Likewise, the
school discourages using any objects in a weapon-like manner.
Visitors
All visitors must sign-in at the office immediately upon arrival. The
school reserves the right to ask any visitor to leave.
This policy should not be interpreted as a deterrent to visitors. It
is intended to help maintain the safest and best educational
atmosphere for our students.
For further information, see the Safety Plan in the school office.
SCHOOL PICTURES
School pictures will be taken each year. Both individual and class
photographs will be taken.
SEVERE WEATHER DAYS
HHLS will follow Putnam County exactly on every severe weather day.
Full-day closings and/or delayed openings announced for the Putnam
County School System will be followed exactly. A message will be
recorded on the school's answering machine. Parents are to use their
own discretion on getting children to and from school. Any absence
attributed to weather will be considered an excused absence. If
Putnam County closes early during the day, parents may, at their
discretion, pick up their child(ren); however, HHLS will remain open
for the duration of that school day, fully staffed.
SPORTS EARLY-DISMISSAL POLICY
Purpose: Pursuant to Tennessee Rules of Compliance 49-6-1002, this
policy will allow students participating on sports teams for Heavenly
Host Lutheran School (HHLS) to be dismissed early in order to
participate in sports events.
Policy: Students participating on sports teams for HHLS, will be
allowed to leave school at a time determined by the coach and
approved by the principal in order to participate in scheduled
events. This early dismissal will not be counted against the
student’s attendance.
In the event that a sports event is scheduled during school, the
student will be excused without penalty to his/her attendance in
order to participate as a representative of HHLS.
Approved 10/27/09
TEACHER GIFTS
If you would like to remember your child's teacher in a special way,
please consider a gift that can be shared in the classroom such as
books and classroom materials. Wish lists may be available from the
classroom teacher. Gifts/gift certificates from Books A Million,
Schoolhouse Supply, and Discovery Depot are always appreciated.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Any parent who finds it necessary to call their child is encouraged
to call the office and leave a message. Messages will be given to the
student as soon as possible. Phone calls will not be transferred
into the classroom. Children will not be called to the phone except
in an emergency. Parents who wish to contact teachers are asked to
do so after regular school hours except in cases of emergency. Any
other use of the phone by children will be limited as well.
VOLUNTEERS
There will be many opportunities for volunteering at HHLS. Volunteers
are used in many capacities. A list of those “opportunities” will be
provided throughout the school year.
ODDS AND ENDS
Unless special arrangements have been made with the teachers, pets
should not be brought to school.
Toys are not to be brought to school. This includes cosmetics, hair
care products, electronic devices, trading cards, and laptops. There
may be times when the teacher will give special permission to bring
items as they relate to a unit of study. This permission from the
teacher will be in written form.
Students should not bring money to school unless requested.
Invitations to special celebrations and birthday parties are to be
mailed unless all students in the class are to be invited.
Teachers should be creative in determining teams. Suggestions are:
color of hair, shoe style, etc.
Please label with your child’s name all personal items that are
brought to school, including clothing.
Please be prepared to respond on the end-of-the-year survey as to
other information that would have been helpful or sections that need
clarification in this handbook.
Information is sent home regularly via, Heavenly Headlines, teacher
newsletters, and notes from the office. PLEASE read these notes; the
information they contain is important.
Solicitations of any kind are not allowed on school grounds.
In order to meet state criteria for Approval of a Category I school,
the following pages contain information regarding Meningococcal
disease and the contact numbers for Children's Services.
(The sheet provided is distributed by the Department of Health and
Human Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
"Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial illness. It is a
leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children 2 through 18 years
old in the United States. Meningitis is an infection of the fluid
surrounding teh brain and spinal cord.
Meningococcal disease also causes blood infections.
About 1,000 - 2,600 people get meningococcal disease each year in the
U.S. Even when they are treated with antibiotics, 10-15% of these
people die. Of those who survive, another 11-19% lost their arms or
legs, become deaf, have problems with their nervous systems, become
mentally retarded, or suffer seizures or strokes.
Anyone can get meningococcal disease. But it is most common in
infants less than one year of age and people with certain medical
conditions, such as lack of a spleen. College freshmen who live in
dormitories, and teenagers 15-19 have an increased risk of getting
meningococcal disease.
Meningococcal infections can be treated with drugs such as
penicillin. Still, abouty 1 out of every 10 people who get the
disease dies from it, and many others are affected for life. This is
why PREVENTING the disease through use of meningococcal vaccine is
important for people at highest risk.
You can learn more by asking your doctor or nurse. They can give you
the vaccine package insert or suggest other sources of information.
*Call your local or state health department.
*Contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Call 1-800-232-4636 (1-800-CDC-INFO)
- Visit CDC's National Immunization Program website at
www.cdc.gov/vaccines
- Visit CDC's meningococcal disease website at
www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/meningococcal_g.htm
- Visit CDC's Travelers' Health website at:
wwwn.cdc.gov.travel
CONTACT NUMBERS FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES
Department of Children's Services 1-877-237-0004
Tennessee Parents' Helpline/Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-356-6767
To report suspected abuse or neglect: 1-877-54ABUSE (1-877-542-2873)
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