Table of Contents

Mission Statement 1

I. Academic Program 2



II. Attendance 9



III. Discipline 12



IV. Dress Code 18



V. Student Affairs 20



VI. Field Trips 24



VII. Service Hours 27



VIII. Index 29







 







Mission Statement

We at Monroe Christian School partner with Christian homes and churches to nurture and equip God's children. We recognize that Jesus Christ is sovereign over all creation and has created each child with unique abilities, gifts, and talents. Our purpose is to develop and encourage growth in every area of their lives: spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically, according to God's Word and relying on the Holy Spirit. Through this process, children will develop a Christian perspective of life that will help them critically weigh the issues of the day and lead them into faithful stewardship of God's world and into a life of joyful service.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will."

Romans 12:2





















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I. Academic Program

Daily Class Schedule

 8:30 - 8:40 Morning Devotions
8:40 - 10:05 BLOCK I
10:05 - 10:15 Morning Break
10:15 - 11:45 BLOCK II
11:45 - 12:05 Lunch
12:10 - 1:40 BLOCK III
1:40 - 1:50 Afternoon Break
1:50 - 2:35 Specials
2:40 - 3:15 Study Hall




Departmentalized Subjects

 Teacher Homeroom Subjects
Mr. Esser 6th Grade Mathematics and Bible
Miss Van 7th Grade English, Literature, and Science
Mr. Bishop 8th/9th Grade Social Studies and PE/Health




Block Schedule

  6th Grade  7th Grade  8th/9th Grade  
Block I Mr. Esser Miss Van Mr. Bishop
Block II Mr. Bishop Mr. Esser Miss Van
Block III Miss Van Mr. Bishop Mr. Esser

 

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Grade Scale and Grade Point Average Scale

Grade Scale GPA Scale

A+ 100%

A 95 - 99 A 4.0



B+ 88 - 91 B+ 3.3 - 3.6

B 85 - 87 B 3.0 - 3.2

B- 82 - 84 B- 2.7 - 2.9



C+ 78 - 81 C+ 2.3 - 2.6

C 75 - 77 C 2.0 - 2.2

C- 72 - 74 C- 1.7 - 1.9



D+ 68 - 71 D+ 1.3 - 1.6

D 65 - 67 D 1.0 - 1.2

D- 62 - 64 D- 0.7 - 0.9



F 0 - 61 F 0.0 - 0.6





Trimester Grading

The academic year is split into three 12 week sessions called trimesters. At the end of each trimester a report card is issued. Percentages rather than letter grades are recorded on report cards. At the end of each trimester, each student will receive a grade point average (GPA) based on an average of the eight academic subjects.

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Honor Roll

In an effort to promote high academic excellence, MCJHS recognizes those students whose scholastic performance meets the following standards.

"A" Honor Roll: a GPA between 3.7 - 4.0 per trimester.

"B" Honor Roll: a GPA between 2.7 - 3.6 per trimester.



 

Progress Roll



We realize that the Honor Roll may be unattainable for some students. However, MCJHS recognizes those students whose scholastic performance consistently improves throughout a trimester.

The Progress Roll is issued at the discretion of the teachers.





Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences

After the first six weeks of each trimester, parent/student/teacher conferences are held. These conferences are held mid-trimester so that the parents have an idea of how well their students are doing in each subject. Conferences have an "open house" format to allow ease in scheduling.

 



Contacting Teachers

Staff hours are from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. When you need to contact a teacher, please leave a message in the office and your call will be returned as soon as possible. We will make every effort to communicate effectively with you during staff hours. When necessary an appointment can be arranged. Please follow this procedure instead of contacting teachers at home.

 

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Video/Movie Policy

The purpose of showing videos/movies within the classroom is to enhance the educational experience. All videos/movies shown within the classroom without prior parent consent are rated "G". Any video/movie with a rating of "PG" or higher will be shown within the classroom only to students who have signed permission slips.



Testing

During the fourth week of October, the Iowa Test of Basic Skills is administered to all students in the Junior High.



Absent Work Policies

Illness/Family Emergency Policy: If a Junior High student has been absent due to illness and/or family emergency, upon return he/she will receive a list of missed assignments. These missed assignments will be due within the number of days that the student was absent. If a parent/guardian or student would like to receive the list of missed assignments prior to the students' return, contact the school office before 10:00 AM with that request. The list of missed assignments would then be available for pickup within the office after 3:00 PM.

Vacation/Planned Absences Policy: We strongly encourage that vacations be scheduled during the times that school is not in session. Missing classes no matter what the reason does affect academic achievement. If it is a necessity that a student be absent, the teacher must have written notification one week in advance. The student will receive a score of 50% on all daily work (excluding tests, quizzes, and projects). Upon his/her return, the student may choose to request, complete and turn in those missed assignments for a possible higher grade. The completed assignments must be turned in



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within the number of school days that the student was absent. Please be aware that time and curriculum often make it difficult for the teacher to give assignments ahead of time.





Late Work Policy

All assignments and projects are expected to be turned in on their due dates. If an assignment or project is turned in late, the following penalty will be assessed: 5 percentage points will be deducted from the final grade for each day late. Test and quizzes must be taken on the day they are assigned.



Academic Detention

When a student has four or more missing assignments (in total from all three teachers) within one weeks time, he/she will receive an academic detention.



Textbooks and Supplies

A Junior High Scholastic Fee of $100.00 is issued each year in addition to the school's tuition. This fee covers the cost of the students' basic classroom supplies and helps to defray the additional costs of Junior High textbooks. Any specialized supplies needed will be included on the supply list issued each fall or a written list will be sent home the first week of school.

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Book Covers

In order to maintain the appearance and integrity of textbooks, each is required to be covered for the entire scholastic year. A covering made from brown paper grocery bags will protect each textbook. The directions for such a cover will be discussed in class during the first week of school. Students are allowed to decorate these paper covers and are responsible for replacing them as needed throughout the school year.



Music Class

Junior High students have the opportunity to attend music class once a week for the entire school year. Band is also available to those students who are interested. Music class is scheduled during the Specials Block in the daily schedule so that no academic time is lost. Band is scheduled during an academic block and therefore, it is the responsibility of each band member to complete the assignments missed while attending band sessions. Students are expected to be on their best behavior during specials. ALL classroom rules apply and consequences will result from improper behavior.



Art Class

Junior High students have the opportunity to attend art class once a week for the entire school year. Art is scheduled during the Specials Block in the daily schedule so that no academic time is lost. Students are expected to be on their best behavior during specials. ALL classroom rules apply and consequences will result from improper behavior.


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II. Attendance

Attendance

Attendance is taken within the homerooms at approximately 8:45 AM. The names of those students who have not yet arrived will be given to the office so that their location can be determined. The total number of tardies and absences are recorded each trimester on the report card.



Entrance Procedure

Staff members are on duty from 8:15 AM - 8:30 AM. Any student arriving earlier than 8:15 AM will not be allowed inside and will be unsupervised. Junior High students are to proceed through both gates surrounding the new play equipment to the rear entrance. Both gates will be locked as of 8:30 AM.



Late Arrival Procedure

Students arriving after 8:30 AM should enter the building through the front doors and proceed directly to the office for a Tardy Pass. Students should present the Tardy Pass to the teacher upon entering the classroom.

Note: It is of the utmost importance that students arrive and begin class on time in order for ALL students to achieve the best education.





Exiting Procedure

Junior High students are dismissed from study hall at 3:15 PM. Students should then exit the building through the front doors and proceed to the designated area of the circle drive where they will await the arrival of their ride home.

 

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Early Dismissal

If a student must leave during the school day due to something other than a school-sponsored sporting event, he/she must provide a note ahead of time. Upon leaving, students must sign out with his/her parent or guardian in the office before leaving.

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III. Discipline


Standard of Conduct

Monroe Christian Junior High School holds that the Bible is the infallible, divine Word of God and that salvation by faith in Christ is the initial step in the Christian life. There is adequate Biblical basis for the idea of spiritual growth into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), which is the work of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:8). This growth begins with the initial act of personally inviting Christ into their life. The Holy Spirit makes the Christian conscious of the Biblical demands for a holy life which fulfills both God's moral law and high law of love (Matthew 22:37-39, Romans 13:8-10, Galatians 5:14). The result is a life consecrated unto God and separated from the world.

Monroe Christian Junior High School must, therefore, provide an environment conducive to the spiritual growth and development of young people who are not yet mature Christians. A standard of conduct based on the following Biblical imperative is necessary to provide such an environment. All of the activities of the Christian must be subordinate to the glory of God who dwells within us (1 Corinthians 8:9, 12-13, 10:32). The Christian will endeavor to avoid practices which cause the loss of sensitivity to the spiritual needs of the world and loss of the Christian's physical, mental, or spiritual well-being (1 Corinthians 9:27).



MCJHS, therefore, expects each student - whether at home, school, or elsewhere:

 

1. to refrain from engaging in sexual harassment, swearing and worldly music (the world's music as it relates to drugs, alcohol, Satan, physical and sexual abuse, violence and suicide), indiscriminate movie/video and TV viewing.



2. to maintain Christian standards in courtesy, kindness, language, morality, and honesty.



3. to be a role model of Christian living especially to younger children.

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Positive Reinforcement

We realize that positive reinforcement will also help each student to grow, therefore, each teacher has his/her own form of positive reinforcement.



Guidelines for Misbehavior
    Detention In-School

Suspension

 At Home

Suspension

 School Board

Review of

Student's

Enrollment
 Disobedience 

refusal to work, to follow rules, teacher instructions, etc.

    
 Disrespect 

insolence, back-talk, arguing, etc.

    
   Insults 

ridiculing others, name calling, mocking, taunting, etc.

    
   Harassment 

physical, verbal or sexual

    
   Lying      plus

apology
Cheating plus

score of zero

Stealing plus restitution
Vandalism 

intentionally damaging textbooks, furniture, facility, equipment, etc.

 plus reparation
Written or Verbal Vulgar Language 

swearing, profanity, obscene language, etc.

  
Fighting 

fist fights, scuffles, verbal threats, intimidation, etc.

  
Verbal or Written Threats 

anything leading to an atmosphere in which an individual does not feel safe such as verbal or written threat of killing

    
Substance Abuse 

use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco

on or off campus

  
Weapons 

knives, guns, "look a likes", etc. brought on campus

  



Level 1 D 1 D 2 D 3  
Level 2   ISS D 1 D 2 D 3  
Level 3   AHS D 1 D 2 D 3
Level 4   SBR

D = Detention ISS = In School Suspension

AHS = At Home Suspension SBR = School Board Review of Student's Enrollment



The length of suspensions are at the discretion of the Principal and will be determined by the severity of the offense.





Detention Procedure

When a student receives a detention, a discipline report form is filled out and a copy is sent home with the student. That same day, the teacher who filled out the discipline report contacts the parents of the student to inform them of the detention and answer any questions. The date the detention will be served is indicated on the report. Detentions are held from 3:15 PM - 3:45 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays. When students are absent on the day of their detention, the detention is then expected to be served on the very next detention day. During a detention students will not be allowed to

 

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work on homework, instead he/she will complete a writing assignment and then be expected to sit upright facing the front of the classroom.





In-School Suspension Procedure



When a student receives an in-school suspension, a discipline report is filled out and a copy sent home with the student. That same day, the teacher who filled out the discipline report along with the principal will contact the parents of the student to inform them of the suspension and answer any questions. Suspensions are served the day after they are issued. The student should enter the school building through the front doors and report directly to the principal. The student will be expected to spend the day in the office under the supervision of the principal and other office staff. During a suspension the student will complete a writing assignment and then be allowed to read a book. In-school suspensions are considered absences. Before going home, the student will receive a list of missed assignments to complete.





At Home Suspension Procedure

When a student receives an at home suspension, a discipline report is filled out and a copy sent home with the student. That same day, the teacher who filled out the discipline report along with the principal will contact the parents of the student to inform them of the suspension and answer any questions. Suspensions are served the day after they are issued. The student must stay home from school for the duration of the suspension and will not be allowed on school grounds. At home suspensions are considered absences. Students will receive a list of missed assignments upon their return.





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School Board Review of Student's Enrollment

When a student has reached the fourth level of discipline, his/her enrollment at MCJHS will be evaluated by the School Board.





Items Not Permitted

The following is a list of items not permitted on school grounds or at any school sponsored event. This is an incomplete listing.

Sexual Harassment

Any form of sexual harassment will not be tolerated at MCJHS. Whenever a student feels that they have been a victim of sexual harassment it is crucial that they confide the details of the incident to a trusted adult. Hopefully a student will feel comfortable talking to one of the Junior High teachers or the principal. However students may wait until they are home and confide in a parent or sibling. It is essential that the school be notified of any such harassment as soon as possible so that the situation can be handled quickly and effectively.

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IV. Dress Code


Dress Code

We realize that the students' wardrobe choices are important statements of their individuality. However, as a Christ-Centered institution, MCJHS prefers clothing choices that promote a healthy Christian lifestyle. Clothing must not detract from the learning environment, therefore, the following are examples of inappropriate clothing:

The appropriate shorts and skirt length is based on the following guideline:



These are not complete listings, therefore, teacher discretion will be used. If a student's clothing is deemed inappropriate, his/her parents will be contacted for a change of clothing.





Hair

Hair must be conservatively styled, well groomed, and neat.



Headwear and Sunglasses

All headwear (i.e. baseball caps, hats, crowns, do rags) and sunglasses or other tinted eyewear are not permitted indoors.



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V. Student Affairs



Note: any appropriate items not seen here can be found in the school-wide handbook.



Lunch

Students shall eat in designated areas only. Students are required to bring a cold lunch and all the "equipment" it takes to eat it. Please do not bring food that is to be heated. For health and personal reasons, students are expected to eat all that is present in his/her lunch.



Chapel

Chapel is held weekly at New Hope Fellowship to provide our students an opportunity to worship and be challenged by the Word of God. Chapels will be held on Fridays from 9:15 until 9:45. Every third Friday of the month is designated as a service project day.



Hall Passes

To leave a classroom, the student must have in their possession a PASS. No student is permitted in the hall during class hours without a pass.



Cubbies (lockers)

This area for each student is a privilege. Students are expected to keep his/her cubbie clean and organized. A daily check will be done upon exiting the building. A student will not be permitted to leave school unless his/her cubbie is clean.

 

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Note: Avoid bringing any valuables to school.



If you plan to decorate your cubbie, it must done in a tasteful and school-appropriate manner. All decorations must be completely removed at the end of the school year without damage to the cubbie. The school reserves the right, without notice to parents or students to search cubbies or take down inappropriate decorations.





Hallway Conduct

While hallways will be monitored between classes, students are expected to behave appropriately in the hallways. This includes using manners, walking, and using an indoor voice. No public display of affection (PDA) of any kind is allowed on school grounds.



Telephone

The office telephone is off limits to students unless there is an emergency. Please make all social arrangements before or after school.



Visiting Students

Visiting students (related or not) are NOT permitted on school grounds during school hours. This is present to ensure safety and academic excellence.

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Extra Curricular Activities

Specific information on sports programs are available upon the beginning of each sport. It is important that the students, faculty, and extra-curricular volunteers reflect the school appropriately:

 



Conduct: This includes cooperation with teachers in both academics and attitude, and being a positive example in student relationships.



Dress: This includes the school regulations for dress. Participants will be asked to "dress up" during the school day and en route to the event if time permits.



Academics: The student should display his/her best effort at all times. To participate in extra-curricular activities, a student must maintain a "C" average with no failing grades. In addition, students must remain caught up on homework via homeroom teacher discretion.



Quitting: At MCJHS, we ask students to strive for a commitment. Any student who turns out for a extra-curricular activity and quits without permission forfeits his/her right to participate in any activity the remainder of the school year.



School Attendance: Unless given previous permission, students must be in school the entire day in order to participate in any extra-curricular activity that same day.



Discipline: All appropriate school rules apply at school-sponsored events. If a student's behavior is deemed out of control at a particular event, the student's parent will be notified immediately to retrieve son/daughter. If a student is thrown out of an event (red card, ejection) it is the school policy that the student also be held from participating in the next event's scheduled match or game. The student will still be expected to attend that match or game.





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VI. Field Trips

Transportation

Transportation of students is a major endeavor. One method is used: volunteer parents/ caregivers. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly manner. The driver (not teacher, coach, or other school official) is in full charge of his/her vehicle.

Note: All drivers must have a copy of their driver's license and proof of insurance on file in the office.





Valuables

Unless given permission, students are not to bring food or valuables (CD players, etc.) on trips. Weapons or "look alikes" are also not permitted.



Discipline

Discipline will be carried out similar to when students are present at school. Dress code will also coincide with school rules. While at event, students are to remain with teacher and appropriate group at all times.



Permission Slips

Designated Permission slips must be given to teacher/ appropriate personnel BEFORE THE EVENT. SORRY, NO EXCEPTIONS. The phone or fax machine may not be used as a substitute for a written permission slip.





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Walking Field Trips

If students are walking to a nearby event/ project, he/she must conduct him/herself in a manner which is safe, appropriate, and reflective of our Christian school.

Note: Failure to abide by above field trip guidelines will result in loss of field trip privileges, school discipline, or both.


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VII. Parent Involvement

Service Hours

Since Christian schools run well only when the home, church, and school cooperate, we find it essential that parents involve themselves in school activities. The following is a list of possible Service Hour opportunities:

organizing class parties

making phone calls

stuffing envelopes

making copies

changing bulletin boards

arranging field trips



outdoor benches

computer equipment

science equipment

athletic equipment

playground equipment



Note: Please contact your child's homeroom teacher if you wish to participate.



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VIII. Index

Index



Absent Work Policies Illness/Family Emergency 6

Vacation/Planned Absences 6



Academic Detention 7



Art Class 8



At Home Suspension Procedure 16



Attendance 10



Block Schedule 3



Book Covers 8



Chapel 21



Contacting Teachers 5



Cubbies (Lockers) 21



Daily Class Schedule 3



Departmentalized Subjects 3



Detention Procedure 15



Dress Code 19



Early Dismissal 11



Entrance Procedure 10



Exiting Procedure 10



Extra Curricular Activities

Academics 23

Conduct 23

Discipline 23

Dress 23

Quitting 23

School Attendance 23



Field Trips

Discipline 25

Permission Slips 25

Transportation 25

Valuables 25

Walking Field Trips 26



Grade Point Average Scale 4



Grade Scale 4



Guidelines for Misbehavior 14



Hair 19



Hall Passes 21



Hallway Conduct 22



Headwear and Sunglasses 19



Honor Roll 5



In-School Suspension Procedure 16



Items Not Permitted 17



Late Arrival Procedure 10









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Late Work Policy 7



Lunch 21



Mission Statement 1



Music Class 8



Parent/Student/Teacher 5

Conferences



Positive Reinforcement 14



Progress Roll 5



School Board Review of 17

Student's Enrollment





Service Hours 28



Sexual Harassment 17



Standard of Conduct 13



Telephone 22



Testing 6



Textbooks and Supplies 7



Trimester Grading 4



Video/Movie Policy 6



Visiting Students 22