CLAIBORNE ACADEMY
6741 Hwy 79
Haynesville, LA 71038
Phone: 318-927-2747 Fax: 318-927-4519
Web Site: http://www.claiborneacademy.org
Jane Brown Wade Heigle
Headmaster Asst. Headmaster
Athletic Director
Sherry Lee Rhonda Chiasson
Guidance Counselor Business Manager
Peggy Speer
Administrative Secretary
Board of Directors
Daryn Clark, President
Dave Acklin Bobby Butler
Jim Colvin Sam Dowies
Maria Haynes John Holtzclaw
Chad Reeder Kerry Reeder
Booster Club
Ellen Shepherd, President
Claiborne Academy admits students of any race, color, or national ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities normally accorded or made available to students at the school. C A does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, disability, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
On behalf of the Claiborne Academy Board of Directors, faculty, and staff, we would like to welcome you as part of the CA family. Whether you are a returning student or new to CA, we will strive to make the upcoming school year an enjoyable and memorable experience for you and your family.
Please keep in mind, that while an effort has been made to outline as many procedures and policies as possible, students and parents should understand that no handbook can illustrate every situation that may arise during a school year. In these situations, the Board of Directors has granted to the Headmaster of the school, the authority to interpret the handbook in accordance with stated school policy upon making decisions in all school matters.
Again, the faculty and staff wish to welcome you to CA. We pledge to work towards making each child’s educational experiences at CA memorable. If the Headmaster, office staff, or faculty and staff can assist you in any way, please contact the school at your convenience.
Claiborne Academy is a private, non-profit, non-denominational school of academic excellence with grades Three Year Old Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade (K3-12). The school is accredited by the State of Louisiana, and the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools, as well as holding Brumfield–Dodd status and participating in the State of Louisiana TOPS tuition program. The school’s purpose is to develop to the fullest possible extent, in a safe and secure environment, the talents and potential of its students so that they may be useful and productive citizens in their communities and our entire nation. To achieve this end, CA maintains scholastic and co-curricular standards at a very high level, as indicated by the school’s mission statement: Claiborne Academy was established to provide academic excellence primarily through a college-preparatory curriculum. It should be noted that academic achievement is limited only by one’s own ability, motivation, and dedication.
Claiborne Academy was founded in 1969 by a group of citizens from throughout Claiborne Parish. Their goal was to provide a high quality, educational facility that would give parents a choice as to where to educate their children. Their goals included: a full service school facility including classrooms, gymnasium, football field and stadium, and complete lunchroom facilities. The founder’s objectives were to present students the opportunity to participate in the highest quality standards of academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities available. These goals and objectives are continuing to be met today.
Beginning with the 1969-1970 school year, two campuses of CA existed with one being in Haynesville and one in Homer. Through the dedication and hard work of many individuals, the campus of Claiborne Academy was built in 1970 at its present location with the 1970-1971 school year being the initial year of operation. Through the ensuing years, many additions and improvements have been made to the original facility.
Claiborne Academy has a rich tradition in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The school has a rich tradition of achievement in academics, as evidenced by its many district and state winners in various academic competitions. Athletics are an integral part of the school, with a full range of junior high and senior high teams offered. Our athletic teams consistently qualify for the state play offs, and the school has won several state championships in different sports. CA offers a wide range of school organizations and service clubs that provide students with opportunities to enrich their knowledge through participation.
Looking to the 21st century and beyond, CA faces many challenges in continuing to provide the highest quality of educational programs and opportunities for students of Claiborne Parish. The school is looking towards the future, in creating additional curriculum opportunities such as college credit courses and other advanced academic courses. Providing technology and meeting the needs of students in today’s changing world, is a primary goal of CA as it strives to be the leading educational institution in Claiborne Parish. With a dedicated community, parents, faculty and staff, the school will be successful in meeting these challenges.
Claiborne Academy is a corporation operated under the supervision of a Board of Directors consisting of nine members. This Board exercises all of the powers of the corporation as specified in the by-laws of the academy. The Directors are elected annually by the stockholders of the corporation, and are notified in writing prior to the election. All of the Directors must be parents of students who are presently enrolled in the school. Directors serve for a three year term and can serve two concurrent three year terms (six years). All Directors serve without remuneration. Members of the Board of Directors serve on committees as assigned by the Chairman or President of the Board of Directors. As members of these committees, the directors analyze, review, and govern the policies and operation of the school.
The Board of Directors encourages all parents to be knowledgeable of school policies and procedures, to participate fully in the operation of the school in accordance with these procedures, and to take an active interest in their child’s education at CA. The Headmaster and school staff are responsible for directing the daily operation of the school in such a way that each student will have the opportunity to maximize their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical capabilities.
Claiborne Academy was established to provide academic excellence. By offering a thorough course of instruction, the staff of CA strives to prepare students for tomorrow’s changing world. By teaching students how to learn, they will be prepared to face the challenges of the 21st century.
Claiborne Academy primarily offers a college-preparatory curriculum. Although the greatest majority of CA students attend college following graduation, a small percentage choose to follow alternate plans for further educational opportunities, as well as choose other paths of preparation for being a success in today’s world. To meet these needs, CA strives to offer a wide range of curriculum opportunities for all students.
We believe that students should be motivated by creative and diversified instruction and continuously challenged to achieve and excel. Students at CA should be stimulated to think independently, to make worthwhile decisions, and to act responsibly.
We believe that teachers should be knowledgeable, cooperative, inspired, and dedicated to the ideals of our democracy. They should have a broad academic background, adequate professional training and preparation, the ability to communicate with young people, and a continuous desire to grow professionally. They should possess intellectual, moral, and spiritual values, as well as an intense desire to see their students grow emotionally, intellectually, and socially.
The school recognizes that in order to provide the highest quality of educational opportunities for student’s in Claiborne Parish, a close and supportive relationship must exist between the school and the parents. True success cannot be attained without this key ingredient.
Our mission is to develop to the fullest possible extent the talents and abilities of our students so that they may be productive, moral citizens in their communities and the nation. Therefore, Claiborne Academy provides a college preparatory curriculum in a Christian environment, while maintaining the highest levels of scholastic and extracurricular standards afforded to its students.
· To provide the basic learning skills so students will be well prepared to excel in any endeavor attempted following graduation
· To encourage students to lead a life of inquiry and to make intelligent and well thought out decisions
· To provide discipline in such a manner that the ultimate goal is self-discipline in each student
· To motivate students to set realistic goals and then to work diligently to meet those goals
· To instill moral and social values in our students along with an important understanding of their responsibilities to their fellow man
· To promote good citizenship and service to others
· To develop physical, mental, and emotional health
Claiborne Academy admits students of any race, color, or national ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities normally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, disability, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Provided student space is available, admission is accomplished by parent/student interview with Headmaster and Counselor, receipt of completed application, the last school year’s standardized test scores, current/final report card, payment of enrollment fee, and approval from the administration and Board of Directors. Students may be required to take an entrance exam as a criterion for placement.
A child must be 3/4 years old before September 30th in order to begin Pre-K 4/5. A child must be 5 years old before September 30th in order to be eligible to begin regular kindergarten. A child must be 6 years old before September 30th and have completed a kindergarten or other approved program before said student will be eligible to begin 1st grade.
The State of Louisiana and Claiborne Parish has made it mandatory for students attending school or Kindergarten to be vaccinated. The minimum number of immunizations required is as follows:
· Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus 4
· Polio 4
· HIB 4
· Measles, Mumps, Rubella 2
All kindergarten, first grade, and transfer students must have complete, up to date health records on file in the school office. The state of Louisiana requires that this record show proof of age by means of a birth certificate or birth certificate number, all required immunizations, and a physical examination by a physician.
All students also must have a completed, updated medical information sheet on file in the front office.
CA contracts are issued on an annual basis. All accounts must be current in order to be eligible to re-enroll for the upcoming school year. Please be advised that a student must be re-enrolled to participate and/or be eligible to try out for activities for the upcoming school year (cheerleading, dance line, spring football).
Tuition is set annually by the Board of Directors. Payment plans are outlined in the tuition and fee schedule and are arranged through coordination with the school business office. Tuition is due the first day of each month, with a late fee of $20.00 being assessed on the 10th day of each month for any fee not yet received. When the 10th of the month falls on a holiday or weekend, all payments are due on the school day immediately following this date.
Students whose accounts are in arrears will have a hold placed on all progress reports, report cards, and all other student information. In addition, students in grades 7-12 will be excluded from taking their midterm or final exams and their class grade is marked incomplete until all debts are cleared and the exam taken. Please be advised that in the event that any account is considered to be 30 days delinquent, your child’s continued education at CA will be in jeopardy.
In the event that a student chooses to leave CA and enroll in another school during the course of a regular school term, then that student’s parent must notify the school, in writing, prior to withdrawal from the school. A withdrawal form is available in the business office. The school’s policy is that all financial obligations for a student must be met (tuition, textbooks, library books, cafeteria charges, club or class dues, athletic charges, and any other charges) prior to a student’s transcript or any other necessary information being forwarded.
If a student withdraws from school or is dismissed, then the entire semester of tuition is due to the school. There will be no prorating of book/technology fees, or other CA fees.
From time to time, parents may have questions regarding CA policies and procedures, or classroom procedures. The philosophy of the school is to resolve all issues at the lowest level. The school continually strives to establish an open line of communication through the use of methods such as elementary weekly newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and school organizations and clubs.
The following outlines the procedure a parent should follow in the event it is necessary to address a concern or issue.
1) In the event that a parent has a concern about the treatment of their child or of a classroom procedure, the parent is encouraged to contact the school office so that the school secretary may set up an appointment with the faculty member in question during their free period during school hours (7:30 – 3:30) to discuss the situation.
2) If the situation remains, the parent is directed to contact the Headmaster to discuss this matter. A conference may be requested and in most cases written correspondence will be provided as a means to follow up the conference in an attempt to resolve the matter to the satisfaction to all parties.
3) After an adequate period of time (in most cases 5 days), and the parent still has concerns; then the parent may provide a written request to the Board Chairman regarding the circumstances. The Board Chairman will immediately notify the Headmaster. The Board Chairman has the prerogative to place this issue with any Board committee, or to pursue other problem solving solutions.
4) In the event that the nature of the issue is sensitive in nature, or that all other avenues have been exhausted, The Board Chairman has the authority to place the item on the agenda at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors.
The CA administration, faculty, and staff continually strive to establish and maintain a positive partnership with students and their families. The success of our school will be the result of creating an effective, professional, and caring atmosphere.
Parents should notify the school office (as well as the business office) when the student’s information on file in the school office changes. This includes home address, home phone, and pertinent health information. Please remember to update and notify the school in the event that any emergency information changes at any time during the school year.
During school hours, visitors are required to check in with the school office immediately upon entering a school building. All visitors will be required to sign in and out, and visiting badges may be issued during their visit. Students from other campuses are only allowed on campus through prior approval from the Headmaster. Those without prior approval will be asked to leave the campus immediately. The only exception to this guideline will be for co-curricular events.
CA has established the following guidelines concerning the responsibilities of students while on campus at CA.
· Once a student arrives on the school campus, they will not be authorized to leave the school campus until school has been dismissed, or the student in question has received authorization from the school office or the Headmaster.
· Any student who drives to school in their personal automobile shall park in the designated area and it is recommended that they lock their car. Upon arrival, the student is not allowed to sit in the car, but is to report to the cafeteria immediately. The parking lot is off limits for any reason without approval from the Headmaster until school is dismissed. Violation of this rule will result in detention or out of school suspension.
· Students may not leave the campus during lunch for any reason.
· Any student entering the campus after school has started, or leaving before school has been dismissed must sign in at the school office. Failure to do so may result in detention or out of school suspension.
· Students who have permission to leave campus after their last class of the day are expected to go directly to the parking lot and leave the campus immediately.
· The school authorizes students to leave campus for school sponsored events prior to the end of school. Students who desire to leave school for any other reason, must have prior authorization from the office, and must follow all school dismissal permission procedures.
No student will be allowed to possess any type of medication during the school day. Students who are under a doctor’s care should present necessary medication to the office upon arrival to school. Any student required to take medication during the school day, must present detailed information outlining the following:
· The student’s doctor must provide a signed, detailed description of the reason for the administration of the medication, along with name of required medication and the proper dosage.
· Any anticipated reaction to the medication.
· Parent’s signature authorizing the school to administer this medication.
A primary goal of Claiborne Academy is that we are a drug free environment. Educational programs aimed at substance abuse, intervention, self-awareness, and self-esteem will be a primary form of maintaining such an environment. Some of these programs are drug information programs to elementary students such as DARE, the Northland Project, drug and alcohol awareness programs in junior and senior high, as well as assemblies and speakers. In order to assist with maintaining a drug and alcohol free environment, the school has instituted a Drug Testing Program in grades 7-12. All students in grades 7-12 are subject to testing at any time at the sole discretion of the Headmaster and the CA Board of Directors. Please see the CA Drug Testing Policy in this handbook.
The administration of the school is authorized to take any actions to ensure the safety, welfare, and security of the CA student body and faculty and staff. These actions include but are not limited to the inspection of lockers, vehicles, and/or personal effects of students without notification. A student’s refusal to allow such an inspection will automatically result in immediate removal from the campus and having that student’s educational contract with the school voided. Possible readmission to the school will require the student to re-apply for admission with approval by the CA Board of Directors.
Any illegal substances discovered at school will result in having the law enforcement authorities notified. The Drug/Alcohol Testing Policy will be initiated depending upon the nature of the possible infraction, and disciplinary actions will be decided after consultation with the CA Board of Directors and local law enforcement officials.
Throughout the school year CA students will have the opportunity to participate in school sponsored field trips. CA faculty and staff are in charge of all aspects of field trips (scheduling, pricing/collection of money, transportation, chaperones, and supervision). Please keep in mind that the primary purpose of field trips is to enrich and reinforce the learning experience of the classroom. Students who do not participate in class field trips and who do not have a prior approved absence or signed medical excuse, will be considered to have an unexcused absence. In order to be able to attend a class sponsored field trip, a student must have a signed and dated permission slip from their parents.
Field Trips are considered a school sponsored activity; therefore, students are required to observe all CA rules of conduct. Official student attire for all field trips in all grades shall consist of a navy shirt with the school crest and khaki pants, unless otherwise specified by the faculty member in charge.
Emergency procedures for fire and tornado are held at regular intervals throughout the school year. The following procedures will apply to actual emergencies as well as emergency drills.
· Fire: The signal for fire is one long, continuous sound of the buzzer, bell, and fire alarm. Instructions indicating how to exit the building are posted in each classroom. The classroom teacher is responsible for directing the students. Students should move quickly and quietly to these designated areas.
· Tornado: The signal for tornado is six (6) short rings of the buzzer and bell – followed by a pause and repeat the pattern of six short rings. Students in the classroom will proceed to designated areas and sit on the floor with back to the floor and feet brought to the chest, and head on knees. The signal for “All Clear” will be one long bell.
CA offers an optional full service cafeteria facility. A lunch is provided with the menu being announced on a monthly basis. Snacks are also offered to all grades during recess/break periods. Students may bring sack lunches. No student will be allowed to leave campus during lunch. Any food that is delivered for a student must be left in the front office for the student to pick up at the appropriate time. Students are encouraged to pre-pay for their meals through the use of a meal ticket.
All class lunches must be approved by the Headmaster in advance of the event. This includes but is not limited to birthday parties.
All CA rules of conduct are expected to be followed during the use of the cafeteria. No student will be allowed outside of the cafeteria or in a classroom or hallways during lunch without permission from a CA faculty/staff member or Headmaster.
Timely, regular attendance of a student lies solely with the student’s parent/legal guardian. Students are required by the State of Louisiana to attend school unless a valid excuse is presented. Educational literature has repeatedly shown that there is a direct correlation between attendance and academic success in school. While the school does not encourage students to attend school who are sick or who have fever (students should be free from fever for 24 hours prior to reporting to school), the school does believe that it is the responsibility of the student to come to school with minor aches and pains.
Elementary students may have no more than a total of 20 absences during the school year and receive credit for work achieved, or be promoted into the next upcoming grade. High school students who are enrolled in a yearly course may have no more than 20 absences per year, and receive a grade for work achieved or receive credit for that individual course. Students who have an extended illness and accumulate above the prescribed amount of absences may have their absences reviewed by the Claiborne Board of Directors. Students must attend class for 30 minutes in order to be counted present for that class. In order for a student to be counted present for the day, a student must attend class until 11:30 or four complete class periods.
· Any student absent in Pre K (Little Red Schoolhouse) should report to the Little Red Schoolhouse and sign in with the child’s teacher.
· Any student absent in grades K5-12 should report to the office with an appropriate excuse and obtain an admit slip.
This is an excused absence in which a student is allowed to make up work over a prescribed length of time. This absence counts against each student’s allowed number of absences. This type of absence includes personal illness, doctor’s appointments, or other extenuating circumstances that would be deemed appropriate by the administration.
This is an excused absence in which a student is absent from school due to a school event such as a field trip, or athletic event. This absence does not count against the number of days allowed each student to be absent, and students are allowed to make up work over a prescribed length of time.
This is an excused absence where a student is aware of an upcoming absence from school, and permission is received from the administration to miss school. Generally, approval for this type of absence must be gained with a note from a parent or guardian one week prior to the absence, reason for the absence, dates of the absences, and a signature from the parent. This is considered to be an excused absence that counts against the number of days that a student is allowed to be absent, and make up work is usually assigned to the student prior to the absence. Students are generally expected to complete all or the majority of the make-up work upon returning to school.
A student who is absent and presents no legitimate excuse for being absent will be granted an unexcused absence. This absence will count towards the number of days that a student is allowed to be absent. No make-up work will be given to students.
Any student with two unexcused absences during the same grading term will receive an out of school suspension.
· Note from parent/legal guardian outlining the nature of the absence, along with a signature from the parent, and telephone number
· Note from medical doctor signed by the attending physician
All excuses that do not have one of the above will be considered to be “pending.” A pending excuse will generally require additional information prior to the administration giving approval. After two days a pending excuse will automatically be considered unexcused.
Any suspension will be treated as an unexcused absence.
Students who are absent and are excused under CA guidelines will be given a chance to make up any work missed. Students will receive a time period equal to the number of days missed, in order to make up all work to teacher’s specifications (EX: a student misses three (3) days of schools and is excused under CA guidelines for all three days. That student will receive three days in order to make up all work missed). After three days, that work will be considered to be unexcused and will not be accepted.
Students who are dismissed from school prior to the end of the school day due to participation in extra-curricular activities are expected to be prepared the next day with all assignments. Students are responsible for making sure that they are aware of all assignments, class work, and tests assigned prior to leaving for their extra-curricular activity. Students who participate in extra-curricular activities and habitually come to school late the day after extra-curricular events will receive an unexcused absence for all classes missed, as well be dropped from said activity.
The student is solely responsible for getting the information, assignments, or work they need prior the extracurricular activity.
If a student is not in their assigned homeroom/1st period class at the tardy bell (7:55), then that student is considered tardy to school, regardless of the reason. Students will be allowed three tardies per semester in grades 7-12. Upon receiving the fourth tardy, the student will be assigned detention. After two additional tardies, students may receive an out of school suspension. The above policy applies to non-drivers as well as student drivers. The administration will have final authority on all tardy notices. This policy does not apply to CA bus riders who are tardy due to the late arrival of the bus due to the fact that they are already under the supervision of CA personnel.
Students are expected to be in their scheduled class/activity at all times and on time. A student who arrives to class late without written authorization from the office or a faculty member is considered tardy. A tardy will be considered a disciplinary notice generated from the office and will be considered to be part of the disciplinary code. An accumulation of four tardies will mean that an individual student enters the disciplinary process and will be placed in detention.
· Pre-K 3 and 4 will offer developmental/skill development reports at regular intervals.
·
· Grading Scale for grades Kindergarten-12 will be as follows:
A (Excellent) 94 - 100
B (Good) 87 – 93
C (Average) 77 – 86
D (Poor) 70 – 76
F (Unsatisfactory) Below 70
Interim Reporting: Progress reports will be issued at four and ½ week intervals during the school year, and will be issued for classes in which a student has an average of 77 and below. Upon receiving a progress report in any class, parents are encouraged to contact the school office to set up an appointment to discuss their child’s academic progress. All progress reports are to be signed and returned within two days of receipt.
The school year will be divided into four nine - week grading terms. A report will be issued to all students at the end of this grading term. The school operates on a traditional seven period day schedule with all classes being offered daily (Monday through Friday) throughout the school year. There will be no nine weeks testing; however, a midterm (semester exam) as well as a final exam will be administered in grades 7-12. Report Cards will typically be issued on Thursday after the conclusion of the term. Students are required to have all report cards signed by their parent and returned to the school.
· Exams are administered to students in grades 7-12.
· Semester exams are given in all academic courses.
· The midterm grade consists of two 9 week grading terms and the semester exam.
· The exam grade will count 1/6 of the semester grade.
· The yearly average will be determined by adding together each semester grade and dividing by two.
All students in grades 7-12 will be assigned exams at the end of the first semester. Exemptions for students in grades 7-12 for the second semester will be as follows:
· For the 2011-2012 school year, CA will continue the following policy as a reward, with emphasis on exemplary student behavior, regular student attendance, and timeliness to school and to class. Students in grades 7-12 will be exempt for exams in each subject area in which they have no more than four excused absences for the entire year, no more than two detentions per semester, or no more than three tardies (to school and to each individual class) per semester.
· Any unexcused absence will automatically result in the student having to take exams in all classes. Four tardies during the last semester will result in a student having to take exams in all classes. Students who are exempt but wish to take an exam may do so without risk of lowering their grade.
Dates for Progress Reports and Report Cards for the 2011-2012 School Year
|
Grading Term |
Reporting Period Ends |
Progress Report Issued |
Reporting Period Ends |
Report Card Issued |
|
First Term |
September 15 |
September 22 |
October 13 |
*October 17 |
|
Second Term |
November 10 |
November 17 |
December 16 |
January 5 |
|
Third Term |
February 2 |
February 9 |
March 1 |
March 8 |
|
Fourth Term |
April 5 |
April 12 |
May 18 |
May 24 |
*Conference Day for Parents/Teachers
· K3, K4, and K5 advancement of students will be determined by the teachers’ evaluation of work performance and readiness for placement in the next grade. Evaluation will consist of development and skills report cards, along with teachers’ evaluation and observation, and school administered achievement and readiness tests.
· Grades 1 and 2: A student who fails either reading or math will be retained in that grade for the upcoming school year.
· Grades 3 – 6: The failure of two major subjects (English, reading, math, science, social studies) will constitute failure of that grade level.
· Grades 7and 8: The failure of two major subjects will require that a student do one of the following: 1) Successfully complete a Louisiana Department of Education approved summer school course work. 2) Successfully complete required tutoring or independent study courses as specified by CA. Upon completion of prescribed work, the student may be eligible for promotion.
· Grades 9 – 12: Students who fail to receive a full credit in a course, will be required to complete both semesters of that subject in a state approved summer school course or a CA approved independent study or correspondence course. All independent study or correspondence work will be conducted under the approval of the CA administrative and guidance department. All exams will be conducted at CA under the authorization of CA personnel. Students who fail to receive credit for a ½ credit course will need to take only the applicable semester.
All coursework must be completed and the school must receive final grades prior to the start of school. Failure to complete all coursework in the summer jeopardizes a student’s standing in the class and ability to achieve a diploma since the school may be unable to schedule all required courses prior to the anticipated graduation date. The responsibility for the completion of such credits rests with the student and his/her family. The failure of three major subjects will result in failure of that grade.
Honor Roll will be calculated at the end of each grading term. Honor Roll is calculated based upon a student’s performance in major subjects. (Exceptions include PE, ALS, Health, Music, Art, Yearbook, Web Design, and Enrichment). All others are major subjects.
· Principal’s List: All A’s in all major subjects.
· A Honor Roll: 94 overall average with no individual grade lower than a B
· B Honor Roll: overall average must be 87 or above with no individual grade
lower than a C
Homework is used to reinforce what has been taught or introduced in the classroom. The amount of homework assigned, will be that which the average student can accomplish within a reasonable length of time. Students may have time to begin their homework while at school under the direction of the teacher or during any free time.
As set forth by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, graduation requirements of 24 Carnegie units will be effective beginning with the incoming freshmen of 2009-2010 In addition, BESE requires all incoming 2009-2010 freshmen and beyond be enrolled in the Louisiana Core 4 Curriculum.
· In order for a student to request a transfer to the Louisiana Basic Core, the student must have attended high school for a minimum of two years. The student, parent/legal guardian, headmaster, and counselor will then meet to determine which curriculum will provide the student with the greater educational benefit.
· The student’s parent/legal guardian shall sign and file with the school a written statement asserting their consent to the student graduating without completing the LA Core 4. The parent/guardian acknowledges the consequences of not completing are ineligibility for the TOPS Opportunity Award and possible ineligibility to enroll in a Louisiana four-year college or university. The statement will be approved upon the signature of the headmaster.
Tops Core LA Core 4 LA Basic Core
|
Math: 3 Units - Algebra I - Algebra II - Remaining Unit(s): Geometry, Advanced Math I, Advanced Math II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus |
Math: 4 Units - Algebra I - Geometry - Algebra II - 1 Unit: Financial Math, Advanced Math I, Advanced Math II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus |
Math: 4 Units - Algebra I - Geometry - Remaining 2 Units: Algebra II, Financial Math, Advanced Math I, Advanced Math II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus |
|
English: 4 Units - English I - English II - English III - English IV |
English: 4 Units - English I - English II - English III - English IV |
English: 4 Units - English I - English II - English III - English IV |
|
Science: 3 Units - Biology - Chemistry - Remaining Unit: Environmental Science, Physical Science, Physics, Biology II |
Science: 4 Units - Biology - Chemistry - Remaining 2 Units: Physical Science, Physics, Biology II, Environ Science |
Science: 3 Units - Biology - I Unit from: - Physical Science, Physics, Chemistry - I Unit from: - Environmental Science, Biology II |
|
Social Studies: 3 Units - American History - Civics - Remaining Unit: World History, World Geography |
Social Studies: 4 Units - American History - Civics - 1 Unit from: World History, World Geography - 1 Unit from: Psychology, World History, World Geography |
Social Studies: 3 Units - American History - Civics - Remaining Unit: World History, World Geography |
|
Additional Requirements: - 2 Foreign Language (Consecutive Units) - Fine Arts Survey, or substitute 1 extra unit from those listed above. - ½ IBCA, BCA - 1 additional unit of advanced math or science. - ½ Health - 1½ PE - 5½ Elective Units |
Additional Requirements: - 2 Foreign Language (Consecutive Units) - Fine Arts Survey - ½ Health - 1½ PE - 3 Elective Units: - Journalism - IBCA - BCA |
Additional Requirements: - ½ Health - 1½ PE - 8 Elective Units |
In addition to meeting curriculum requirements for graduation, a student must also pass the English and math components and either the science or social studies component of the GEE.
Seniors who have not fulfilled all requirements for graduation as set forth by Claiborne Academy and BESE will be denied participation in graduation practices, graduation exercises, and any other event associated with graduation.
· All students must meet all State of Louisiana and CA attendance and conduct requirements.
· Minimum course load requirements dictate that all CA students must take a minimum of 5 subjects per year; however, in most cases students in grades 7-12 will be enrolled in six academic classes. The school reserves the right to modify course requirements because of inability to schedule courses for individual students or due to transfers.
· Students may reschedule courses only during the first week of school. Students will be allowed to reschedule only after receiving all of the following: teacher approval, counselor approval, administrative approval, and parent note with signature and date.
· Students enrolled in Louisiana Virtual School courses may withdraw from said course under conditions listed above and those set forth by LVS.
· Admittance in dual enrollment courses require prerequisites and meeting academic criteria as required by LA Tech University, including a verified ACT score and GPA.
· No student will be allowed to take coursework (summer school, on-line, or correspondence work) without prior approval from the administration. Summer remediation courses are to be completed before the next school session begins.
All students at CA take standardized tests each school year. Results of these tests should always be taken in context with all other methods of evaluating academic progress. Although the score of any given test may not be significant in and of itself, a series of scores over a period of time may provide a comprehensive picture of the overall progress that a student is making. Parents and students are notified are notified about test results at the end of the school year, and the guidance counselor/administration is available for consultation at parent/student request. Students in grades 4 – 12 are required to participate in the summer reading program with testing to be during the first week of school in the fall.
Readiness Tests: All students entering kindergarten may be given readiness tests prior to enrolling at the beginning of the school year.
Achievement Tests: Each grade is administered an achievement test on a yearly basis. Scores are recorded on the student’s permanent record, and sent to parents. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s scores with the teacher or counselor.
End of Course Tests: Tests given to high school students enrolled in the following subjects: Algebra I, English II, Geometry, Biology, and English III.
Kindergarten (5 Year Old): Metropolitan Readiness Test
Grades 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9: Stanford Achievement Test
Grades 4 and 8: Louisiana Educational Assessment Program ( LEAP )
Grade 7: Duke University Talent Identification Program (Selected Students)
Grades 10 and 11: Graduate Exit Exam (GEE) and End-of-Course (EOC) tests–
Required for graduation
Claiborne Academy’s mission is to provide students with a college preparatory education, and as such, all juniors are required to take the ACT test before or during the spring scheduled testing.
Active Prep, an ACT prepared software which provides students with practice tests with immediate feedback, is installed on all computers in the high school lab.
* CA’s ACT code is 191-172.
ACT 2011-2012 Registration/Testing Dates:
|
Registration Deadline |
Late Registration Deadline |
Testing Date |
|
August 12, 2011 |
August 26, 2011 |
September 10, 2011 |
|
September 16, 2011 |
September 30, 2011 |
October 22, 2011 |
|
November 4, 2011 |
November 18, 2011 |
December 10, 2011 |
|
January 13, 2012 |
January 20, 2012 |
February 11, 2012 |
|
March 9, 2012 |
March 23, 2012 |
April 14, 2012 |
|
May 4, 2012 |
May 18, 2012 |
June 9, 2012 |
Exams for the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP), given to students in fourth and eighth grades, and the Graduate Exit Exam (GEE), given to students in tenth and eleventh grades, will be administered in two phases.
Phase 1 Testing
Test Date: March 20
Make up test dates: March 21 and 22
Fourth and eighth grade LEAP students will be tested on the writing and math constructed response items. Tenth and eleventh grade GEE students will be tested on the writing as well as the math, science, and social studies constructed response items.
Phase 2 Testing
Tests Dates: April 12-13 and April 16-17
Make up test dates: April 18-19
LEAP and GEE students will be tested on the remaining portions of the ELA and math exams, as well as the science and social studies tests.
Parents will have access to student’s grades through the Parent Command Center online. Test papers are also helpful in informing parents of student progress, as well as serving as a review and study items for exams. In grades 1-6, all graded work from the prior week will be sent home each Monday to be signed and returned to school the following day. If the student repeatedly fails to get work signed or returned, the parent will be contacted and the student will face disciplinary measures. Although test papers may not routinely be sent home in junior high and high school, it will be done at the discretion of the individual teacher. When deemed appropriate, a detention may be issued for students who do not return signed work within a designated time frame. In grades 7-12 all unit or chapter tests are kept on file and are available for parent review.
Alcohol/Drugs: Any student found using, having in their possession (including vehicle), or being under the influence of any form of drugs, narcotics, alcoholic drinks on campus or during school sponsored events shall immediately be suspended until the Board of Directors may convene to rule upon expulsion from school.
Tobacco: Any student found using tobacco products or having them in their possession (including vehicle) on campus will be subject to suspension.
Any students found to have taken any items or property belonging to others or the school will be immediately suspended pending a possible expulsion hearing. Penalties enforced will depend on the nature and severity of the offense and the age of the student. Minor offenses may be handled at the discretion of the Headmaster.
In acts designated as “major” (those acts of damage exceeding $250.00), any student found in the act or admitting guilt in the destruction of school property shall be immediately suspended and subject to expulsion. Appropriate law enforcement agencies may also be notified. In cases designated “minor” such as writing on walls or desks, general disciplinary action such as detention and or suspension may be used. Any student who willfully destroys or damages non CA property such as property of another school or at a fieldtrip location will 1) draft a letter of apology and 2) be subject to disciplinary actions listed above. In all cases, the student and/or their family will be required to restore damage property at their own costs.
Any student who modifies or attempts to modify the existing hardware or software configuration of a school computer will be assigned a disciplinary notice and will be fined the on-site cost of reconfiguring the computer. Any use of a computer in any mode not specifically authorized by the teacher may require that a review of the software configuration be conducted. In this case, the student will be assessed the cost of the verification process.
Computers located in the labs and library as well as several classrooms, are equipped with internet access. Students and parents must sign an internet usage agreement form in order to gain access. Students who abuse this privilege will forfeit their entire computer privileges as well as being referred to the administration for disciplinary action.
Due to the recent federal ruling regarding proprietary music downloads, no student is authorized to download any type of audio or video file without approval from the CA computer instructor in charge. Any violation of this rule will result in immediate disciplinary action.
Any student who modifies (or attempts to modify) the existing software or hardware configuration of a school computer will be assigned a disciplinary notice and will be fined the onsite cost of reconfiguring the computer. The use of a computer in any mode not specifically authorized by the teacher may require that the student be assessed the cost of the verification process. In the event that the damaged computer is irreparable or the damages will equal to the approximate cost of the replacement value, at the discretion of the computer teacher and administration, the cost of a computer will be assigned to that student.
Any student fighting or committing any act that promotes fighting will warrant immediate disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion.
Any student in possession of fireworks, weapons, or other dangerous implements on campus or at any school function will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension, expulsion, and possible notification of law enforcement agencies.
Any student who is disrespectful to a staff member or who utilizes any profane or rude language toward a staff member or other student will face immediate disciplinary action, which can include suspension or expulsion based upon the severity of the offense. Any form of sexual harassment will not be tolerated and all such incidents will be reported to the guidance counselor.
The act of cheating lowers the self-esteem of the student and invalidates the assessment. It comprises the integrity of the student, and in the long run, diminishes the value of each student’s diploma. If cheating occurs, all students involved will receive a grade of zero on the assessment in question, and the child will receive an automatic disciplinary notice that will involve detention and possible suspension. The second offense will result in the automatic failure of the course in question, and possible expulsion. All subsequent offenses after the initial offense will be noted on the student’s permanent record. A student who is a member of an honor/academic club (i.e. National Honor Society) and is caught cheating will be dismissed permanently from that organization.
Any student who “skips” any portion of the school day is subject to being assigned an out-of-school suspension and will receive an unexcused absence with a zero for each class period missed. Note: a student is considered in attendance once that student is present on any part of the campus during the school day.
As part of the school community, students are expected to exercise discretion in the public display of affection. School is not the appropriate place for these actions. A disciplinary notice will be issued for all infractions.
Any misbehavior, which impedes orderly classroom procedures, general school operation, or transportation safety, will result in disciplinary actions in accordance with the stated policy.
While participating in school events, co-curricular events, and field trips, students are expected to follow the same code of conduct that is applied during the regular school day when attending any school event. Regarding athletic and other co-curricular events, all CA students and their families are encouraged to attend these school sponsored events. Positive support at school sponsored events and an extra-curricular event is considered to be part of the school experience. The MAIS has guidelines in place directed to the behavior of team members, cheerleaders, and fans in attendance at all MAIS sponsored events. The MAIS has the authority to impose a monetary fine or deny entry to students, their family members, and school fans who fail to act with good sportsmanship during an MPSA sponsored event.
While attending events on our campus, students often are not under the direct supervision of their parents or an adult. Although school personnel and other adults are assigned to CA extra-curricular events, they cannot be responsible for such unsupervised students at all times, and as such are asking that families please acknowledge that there must be certain behavioral guidelines in place for all students while on our campus. CA expects all those participating in or attending school events to remain courteous, respectful, and cooperative while on school grounds. Regular disciplinary consequences may be called into use should a student elect to behave otherwise. If the administration deems it feasible, students may be asked to stay directly under their family’s or an adult’s supervision. The administration reserves the right to maintain an orderly and safe environment and has the full authority to ask any person whose behavior warrants to leave any CA sponsored event. Students found outside of regular areas during extra-curricular activities and events will be directed to return to designated areas. Repeated infractions will result in the loss of privilege to attend such events.
The school recognizes the need for students to have devices that will enable them to remain in contact with their families. However, no type of electronic device is allowed in any classroom or classroom sponsored activity. Additionally, electronic devices are not to be in any student’s possession while on campus. Students who drive are encouraged to leave cell phones locked in vehicles. Other students who must have cell phones for activities after school may check phones into the office immediately upon arriving to school. Any such devices observed within the classroom environment, or in the possession of a student, will result in the item in question being taken away from the student and placed in the front office, where it will remain until a parent or guardian picks them up. A $25.00 fine will be assessed on the first offense. A second offense will result in a $40.00 fine. On a third offense the administration will reserve the right to hold the phone for the remainder of the year. Students are never to call home either on a school phone or cell phone without permission from the office. Doing so may result in detention or suspension.
Students are not allowed to leave the campus during school hours without permission from Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Sherry, Mrs. Rhonda, or Mrs. Peggy. Students who are leaving early are responsible for checking with teachers of classes missed to receive assignments. If a student needs to leave during the day, parents are requested to send a note for the student to be dismissed early. All parents are asked to arrange all doctor and dental appointments after school or on school holidays whenever possible. Parents arriving at the school to sign out their child must come to the office. The student must sign out in the office before leaving, and failure to sign out may result in out of school suspension. Some school sponsored events may require a student to leave school early. In these cases, only participants will be granted school sponsored absences.
The gym is not to be used before or after school for any activity unless approval is obtained from the office. Students or persons not directly involved in the activity in the gym area should not be in the gym or in the building after school has been dismissed for the day. All activities must be supervised by appropriate sponsors, coaches, or an approved adult at all times.
The gym floor is off limits during the school day except for PE classes. Students should enter and exit the building from the cafeteria doorway and not go through the gym.
Any item which a teacher deems is disrupting to the class will be confiscated from the student. Items will be turned over to the administration which will issue appropriate disciplinary measures, as well as keep the item in question for a period of time specified by the administrator.
1st Offense: Call parents to change clothes. Students will be removed from class until a change of clothes is provided, resulting in lost class time. Work missed, will not be allowed to be made up.
2nd Offense: Call parents to change clothes. Students will be removed from class until change of clothes resulting in lost class time. Work missed will not be allowed to be made up. Detention will be assigned.
3rd Offense: Call parents for change of clothing. Student will be removed from class until change of clothes resulting in loss of class time. Work missed will not be allowed to be made up. Detention will be assigned. Student will forfeit test exemption for the semester.
4th Offense: In-School Suspension. Student will be removed from class and will be supervised by a teacher. Student will receive a zero in all classes for the day. A $40.00 fee will be charged to the parent for the teacher.
The CA Board of Directors has authorized the administration to act as the final authority on all issues relating to the dress code.
CA elementary staff has been authorized to attend to classroom behaviors at their assigned level and handle accordingly. The following pages primarily are associated with grades 7-12.
In an effort to administer and enforce a consistent code of conduct, disciplinary offences have been divided into two categories, major and minor infractions. Methods of enforcing this code of conduct and student misbehaviors include Regular Detention, Saturday Detention, In-School Suspension, and Out-of-School Suspension. The following outlines our methods and procedures regarding the discipline system in use at CA.
Regular Detention: Will be held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:05 – 4:05. Students who are assigned detention can be excused only with permission from the administration. Students who miss detention without a valid excuse will be automatically assigned a second detention or move to the next level within the disciplinary scale.
Saturday Detention: Will be held from 8:00–12:00 on Saturday mornings, and will be assigned at the discretion of the administration. Students who miss Saturday Detention will be assigned an In-School Suspension. Each student will be charged a fee of $40.00, payable prior to serving the Saturday detention.
In-School Suspension: Will be assigned for an accumulation of minor infractions. In-School suspension will be assigned at the discretion of the administration, and will be considered as an unexcused absence. A substitute teacher will be contracted to supervise each student assigned In-School Suspension. Each student will be charged a fee of $40.00 (payable prior to serving suspension).
Out-of-School Suspension: Will be served for major infractions of the disciplinary code or for repeated offenses. Out-of-School Suspension length will be generally from one to five (1-5) days at the discretion of the administration. It will result in an unexcused absence, and said student will have a zero added to each class missed for each day served during the suspension. Students who are a member of an academic club or organization will be placed on probation and have those privileges removed for a period of one semester. Two out-of-school suspensions within the same quarter may result in an expulsion upon recommendation of the administration to the Board of Directors.
Corporal Punishment: Corporal Punishment is an alternative form of discipline which may be appropriate for some students at the request and approval of parents. It will be administered by the Headmaster or Assistant Headmaster with at least one other witness. Parents will sign a permission form at the beginning of each school year.
All students who are suspended (In-School/Out-of-School) will be removed from all extra-curricular and athletic events during the duration of the suspension.
Teachers will fill out a CA student behavior referral form regarding an infraction which has occurred. It is the responsibility of the office and administration to administer, document, and record the violation and notify the student, the parent, and the teacher of the procedures involved. The following outlines the regular course of action that students and parents can expect the school to enforce.
All student behavior notices assigned to students must be signed by parent and returned to the office by 7:50a.m. the following day. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in a second disciplinary notice being assigned to that student.
The school and administration reserves the right to determine all disciplinary issues and assign appropriate procedures.
The athletic and extra-curricular programs are considered to be a vital part of the curriculum at CA. Expected learning outcomes include following MAIS, school, and individual team rules, developing self-discipline and self-esteem, learning the benefits of teamwork, responsibilities of winning and losing, and exercising the qualities of leadership and loyalty. These learning experiences coupled with core subject knowledge and moral understanding will build a solid foundation for a young person’s development into a mature and productive citizen.
Students who commit to a specific sport or activity should be encouraged to complete their commitment. Those students who discontinue an activity or sport should discuss their intentions with the appropriate coach or administration prior to the withdrawal. Voluntary removal from a team situation may negate the athlete’s attainment of a letter in that sport. Once again, learning the value of team and commitment is a major program goal for CA activity programs.
· All athletes are to be covered through a family insurance policy or sign a parent waiver for participation.
· Voluntary supplementary insurance is available through the school.
· A student must not have reached their 19th birthday on or before August 1st in the school year in which said student wishes to participate in athletic activities.
· A student must complete a physical with a physician’s statement for approval for athletic competition prior to participation in any CA official team practice. MAIS requires that each student’s physical form be on file in the school office and all physicals are in effect from July 1st to June 30th of each school year, regardless of when the physical was taken.
· A student will not be permitted to take part in any school sponsored extra-curricular activity, practice, or game unless they are in attendance for ½ day of school (11:30). Exceptions may be granted for a doctor’s appointment or other specified emergencies with prior approval from the administration.
· Students who are suspended (in school or out of school) and are currently participating in extracurricular athletic activities will be suspended for the next upcoming game. This will not carry over into another sport season.
Students who participate in extra-curricular events but are habitually tardy for school the day following an athletic event will be addressed by the school disciplinary process, as well as, a possible recommendation to be dropped from that athletic team.
Under MAIS guidelines, to be eligible a student must earn 4 major credits (English, science, math, foreign language, or social studies) the previous academic year.
All students who participate in any extra-curricular activity (athletic, cheerleading, and any other activity as designated by the administration) will have to fulfill the following requirements in order to gain and retain eligibility throughout the school year.
· All students must meet all MAIS requirements for eligibility.
· At the end of each nine week grading term, all students will have their grades checked for determining eligibility.
· At the end of each nine week grading term, a student may not have more than one F on their report card.
· A grade of incomplete for that term will be computed as a failing grade until the final grade is rendered. The final authority for any incomplete grades will rest with the Headmaster.
In the event that a student becomes ineligible at the end of the term, that student will be ineligible for a minimum period of 4½ weeks (midterm) until progress reports are issued and sufficient progress has been made. At the midterm, a student who has been ineligible and satisfies the above criteria will be considered eligible again to immediately resume all extra-curricular activities.
Once a student is considered ineligible over a nine week term, he/she will be unable to participate in any extra-curricular activities after school (Any student who is ineligible, will be able to participate in all extra-curricular and sports related activities during the school day before 3:00 PM). Participation is defined as being able to engage in any practice session as well as being able to dress out for any inter-scholastic games or events.
All students who are involved in extra- curricular activities will be issued progress reports at the midterm regardless of the status of their grade. Students who fall below the stated criteria for the midterm will be placed on academic probation until the remainder of that grading term. During this time, students who have been placed on probation may continue in their extra-curricular activities until the end of that term.
· Eligibility will be computed at the end of each nine week grading term
· Progress reports will be issued to all students involved in extra-curricular activities at each midterm.
· Eligibility will be computed based on that term grade only (exam grades, midterm or semester averages will not be used to compute extra-curricular eligibility).
· Eligibility at the end of the year will be based upon meeting the MAIS criteria of passing 4 major subjects the previous year and will have to meet all Claiborne Academy Extra-Curricular Standards.
JV Football JV Basketball
4th, 5th, & 6th Pee Wee Football 5th & 6th Basketball
Varsity Basketball Track & Field
JV Basketball
5th & 6th Basketball Varsity Softball
JV Softball
Track & Field
Varsity Swim Team
Varsity Baseball JV Swim Team
JV Baseball Elementary Swim Team
Varsity Golf Varsity Cheer
JV Cheer
Varsity Swim Team
JV Swim Team
Elementary Swim Team
· All articles of clothing must be appropriately sized, worn with a belt and shirt tucked in at all times.
· All pants must be a traditional fit. Pants must have a sewn hem with no flared ends or holes. Pants with slits in the bottom hem will be allowed provided that they are hemmed and/or purchased with slits. Pants that are cut up the sides of the leg will not be allowed.
· Painter style pants, pants with excessive pockets or bulging cargo pockets will not be allowed.
· Students must have shoes on at all times. Sandals and flip flops are allowed for male and female students with exception of rubber type flip flops.
· No hats, caps, or bandanas shall be worn on campus at any time.
· No earrings will be worn by female students on any body part other than the ear. A male student shall not wear an earring of any type.
· All students must be properly and neatly groomed. Any article of clothing or extreme hair style including feathers in the hair which distracts from the educational process will be deemed inappropriate for school at the discretion of the administrator. No visual tattoos at any time when wearing school and athletic uniforms will be allowed.
· No facial hair shall be worn by any male student. All haircuts shall be neat with no excessive hair coloring. Any hair style or color which detracts from the educational process will be deemed inappropriate for the school at the discretion of the administrator.
All students will be required to have a navy blue polo shirt with a crest emblem. This is considered to be the official CA uniform, and will be required for all field trips, and other school activities or functions as identified by the school administration.
Pants: navy or khaki
Pant must be the traditional pant of cotton or cotton blend.
No sagging will be allowed.
Capri Pants have been approved provided they meet all other pant requirements.
Shirts: navy, red, white, or gray
Long or Short Sleeved, Polo Type, or Button-up (Oxford Style) will be allowed.
No cap sleeves allowed.
Emblems other than the crest should be no larger than a quarter.
Skirts/Jumpers/Skorts: school plaid, navy, or khaki
When arms are straight down at the side, tips of fingers should not touch skin
Shorts: navy or khaki
When arms are straight down at the side, tips of fingers should not touch skin.
Walking or knee length shorts are preferred for boys.
Shorts must be hemmed and no rough hems are allowed.
Belts: brown, navy, or black is preferred
All pants with a belt loop require a belt.
Belt colors/styles must not distract from the educational process in any way.
Shoes: Open-toed shoes and flip flops are allowed, however, plastic or rubber flip flops are
not allowed. Elementary student’s shoes should not be backless.
Outerwear and Pullovers
CA uniform guidelines must be maintained for clothing under all outerwear and pullovers.
Fleece outerwear and all pullovers must be red, navy, white, or gray. No logos will be allowed anywhere on this type of outerwear. The exception to this policy is any type of clothing that is considered to be CA outerwear that has a CA team/school logo or any item that the Booster Club makes available to be sold during the course of the school year.
Friday will be considered Casual Day. Jeans and CA spirit t-shirt purchased through the CA booster club or other approved school organizations may be worn. Other approved CA shirts, t-shirts, and other apparel as approved by the administration may be worn. Abuse of the casual dress code policy on Friday will result in the elimination of Casual Day at the discretion of the administration.
· Jeans with slits, tears, or holes will not be allowed.
· No sagging will be allowed.
· CA wind suits may be worn on casual day.
A bus service is available for CA students. Bus routes are organized for transportation to and from specific demographic areas. Bus routes and fees are determined each year according to student need and cost to operate the vehicles.
Bus Rules
Student riders are expected to adhere to all aspects of the CA code of conduct and bus regulations listed below.
· The bus driver is in complete charge of the bus, and students shall obey the bus driver at all times.
· All students will be issued an assigned seat in which they must sit in at all times.
· Student should be ready to board the bus upon arrival to the designated stop. Drivers are not authorized to wait on any student.
· There will be no boarding or unloading until the bus has completely stopped. Once students are on the bus, they should face the front and sit properly in their assigned seat.
· There will be no standing on the bus for any reason once the bus is in motion.
· Students will not throw any items from the bus window. Students will not put their head, arm, or legs out of the window. Students will not hold any item out of the window. Any violation of this rule may result in immediate and permanent removal from the bus.
· There should be no conversation with the driver at any time the bus is in motion.
· Students are not to vandalize or deface the bus in any manner. Any damage to the bus will be the responsibility of the student to repay in full. Any act of vandalism will result in immediate and permanent removal from the bus.
· It is the responsibility of every rider on the bus to keep the bus clean at all times. No trash is to be thrown on the floor or left on the bus for any reason. There will be no throwing of any items, fighting, spitting, or profane/offensive language of any kind. Any violation of these rules may result in immediate and permanent removal from the bus.
· There will be no eating or drinking on the bus.
· No student may board the bus for any reason without the driver in attendance or remain on the bus without the driver.
Any violation of these rules will result in disciplinary action by the driver and a report issued to the transportation coordinator and Headmaster. Consequences will be as follows:
1st Offense: Written warning issued by driver to be signed and returned by the parent to the driver. A copy will be placed on file in the school office.
2nd Offense: Loss of bus privileges for one week.
3rd Offense: Loss of bus privileges for one month.
4th Offense: Loss of bus privileges for remainder of the school year.
The transportation coordinator and Headmaster reserve the right to act as final authority on all disciplinary issues relating to the bus.
Student Automobiles
Students are permitted to drive their own automobile on campus. In order to drive on campus, a student must be a properly licensed driver, have proof of insurance, an auto tag number, and a CA Parking Permit.
The CA Parking Permits must be purchased for each automobile the student will be driving to school. The permits will be purchased in the office and placed on the back right corner of the back rear glass.
The observed speed limit on campus is 5 miles per hour with the speed limit on Academy Road (side street running perpendicular to Highway 79) being 15 miles per hour. Students are not permitted to ride on the exterior of a vehicle or drive a vehicle registered to another driver. Violations of these rules will result in the loss of driving privileges at the administration’s discretion. A second violation of this rule will result in permanent suspension of driving privileges.
Students are not permitted to drive with excessively loud music on the school campus or on Academy Road. Violations will result in the loss of driving privileges.
Active Participation
An active Booster Club is vital to the present and future success of the school. All parents should ensure that their active participation in their child’s education is demonstrated by their active membership in the Booster Club. Periodic meetings are scheduled on a monthly basis.
The Booster Club sponsors several major events during the school year, with the funds raised from these activities being used to support numerous school projects. Parents interested in their child’s education will wish to become involved in the Booster Club.
Fundraising
Fundraising will include but not be limited to the following:
· Back to School BBQ
· Auction
· Bingo
· Halloween Carnival
· Basket Raffle
· Box Tops for Education
· Money Raffle
4-H Club
Spelling Bee
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
Student Council
National Honor Society
Art Competition
Art Fair
Photography Club
Claiborne Academy
2011-2012 School Calendar
Friday, August 12 Professional Day for Staff
Monday, August 15 Teacher In-Service
Back to School BBQ – 5:00
Tuesday, August 16 School Begins – dismissed at 12:00
Monday, September 5 Labor Day Holiday
Mon/Tues, October 3 & 4 Fall Break
Tuesday, October 11 Claiborne Parish Fair Day – half day
Monday, October 17 Students dismissed at 12:00
Parent/Teacher Conference (1:00 – 4:00)
November 21 – 25 Thanksgiving Break (Monday – Friday)
Dec. 19 – Jan. 2 Christmas Break
Tuesday, January 3 2nd semester begins
Monday, January 16 Holiday – no school
Monday, February 20 Winter Holiday/Presidents’ Day
Friday, March 9 MAIS District Teachers Meeting
No school for students
Tuesday, March 20 Phase I of LEAP/GEE Testing
March 26 – 30 Spring Break
Friday, April 6 Good Friday
Monday, April 9 Easter Monday
April 12, 13, 16, & 17 Phase II & Standardized Testing
Friday, May 18 Last Day of School
End of 1st 9 weeks – Thursday, October 13 --- Report Cards issued Thursday, October 17
End of 2nd 9 weeks – Friday, December 16 --- Report Cards issued Thursday, January 5
End of 3rd 9 weeks – Thursday, March 1 --- Report Cards issued Thursday, March 8
End of 4th 9 weeks – Friday, May 18 – Reports issued Thursday, May 24