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ELEMENTARY CAMPUS STUDENT HANDBOOK

2018/2019

8260 – 13th Avenue Burnaby, BC V3N 2G5

Phone: 604-522-1410 Fax: 604-522-4606 e-mail: admin@johnknoxbc.org

admin2@johnknoxbc.org

EDUCATING GOD’S CHILDREN

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JKCS MISSION STATEMENT

Preparing students for a life of transformation and service through excellent Christ-centered education

Romans 12:2 ‘’Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but transformed

by the renewing of your mind.”

Vision Statements

Our Program: • Is grounded in a Biblical Christian perspective. • Provides quality, innovation and excellence in education. • Develops and promotes local and global leadership and service.

Our Students: • Strive to reach their full potential and become passionate lifelong learners. • Develop critical thinking skills and a growing understanding of competing worldviews. • Demonstrate respect for others and all of God’s creation. • Learn to respond to God’s call to live as disciples of Christ.

Our Teachers: • Provide excellence in teaching and student learning practices. • Demonstrate committed and caring relationships. • Establish a dynamic and evolving professional teaching/learning community. • Are Christians committed to living out their faith.

Our School Culture: • Provides a secure learning environment which nurtures, encourages and challenges

students. • Cultivates faith formation, worship and prayer.

Our Community: • Partners together to help children flourish in their spiritual, social, cognitive, physical

and emotional development. • Prayerfully works to strengthen the mission, finances and facilities of the school.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Mission Statement Page 2 General School Information Page 4 The School Home & School Basis &Purpose Curriculum Structure Location Staff Page 5 John Knox Christian School Board Page 6 Other Organizations Daily Time Schedule School Closure – Inclement Weather Page 7 Enrollment & Registration Page 8 Enrolment Procedures Tuition Page 9 Tuition Schedule General Policies and Procedures Page 10 Absentees Unauthorized Absentees Discipline Policy Student Regulations Page 13 Communication Page 17 Student Agendas Bi- monthly Newsletter New Parent Orientation Website Student Progress and Evaluation Procedure for Voicing Parental Concerns Page 18 Student Placement Progress Special Programs Page 19 Educational Support Services Kindergarten Schedule Chapel Page 20 Running Program Extra-Curricular Activities Interschool Sports Program Clubs Page 21 Intramurals Student Leadership Grades 6 and 7 Chapel Worship Teams School Sponsored Ministries Page 22 Computer Use Guidelines Page 22 Computer Use Agreement Page 23

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GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATON

THE SCHOOL John Knox Christian School (JKCS) is a K-12 independent, interdenominational, educational institution owned and operated by the John Knox Christian School Association. The association is made up of parents, whose children are enrolled in the school, and other interested persons who support the school and agree with the constitution.

HOME AND SCHOOL Parents, believing they were responsible for their children's education, established Christian schools. Such schools complement the Christian home and church and present the student with a consistent Christ-centred approach to all of life and learning. Unity between the school and home provides the best foundation for a child's development.

BASIS AND PURPOSE The Bible is the authority that governs and directs the way we educate our children. Christ is recognized as the foundation of all knowledge and truth. The school strives to guide and direct our students to commit their hearts and lives to Christ, to come to a meaningful knowledge of God's wonderful creation and to prepare them to serve God and man in all aspects of life.

CURRICULUM Every subject is taught in the light of God's Word. The curriculum directs our students to a Christian understanding of God, themselves, their fellow man, and the world in which they live. Along with factual information, students are given guidance and direction by teaching values that help develop every potential God has given each of them. The school meets provincial requirements for certification as a Group 1 Independent School.

STRUCTURE BOARD - John Knox Christian School Association (JKCSA) elects a Board of Trustees which carries out the aims, purposes, and policies of the society. It is assisted in its work by a number of committees appointed from the membership. STAFF–The teachers are selected on the basis of their Christian commitment and academic training. All staff members are required to be certified by the BC Ministry of Education. The full-time staff positions are supplemented by part-time teachers and parent volunteers. FINANCING - The school's finances are primarily derived from three sources - tuition fees charged to parents of the students, donations made by supporters of Christian Education, and funds provided by the Provincial Government under the Independent School Act.

LOCATION 8260 – 13th Avenue, Burnaby, V3N 2G5 Phone: 604-522-1410 Fax: 604-522-4606 Email: admin@johnknoxbc.org

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ELEMENTARY STAFF 2018/2019

Principal Mr. Paul Tigchelaar Elementary Vice Principal Mr. Dave Ward Secondary Vice Principal Mrs. Wendy Perttula Intermediate Administrator Mr. Jacob Rodgers Primary Administrator Mrs. Carlee Chan Development Coordinator Ms. Arusha Vegt Business Manager Mrs. Karen Dyck Kindergarten (3 classes) Mrs. Kim Beunk,

Ms. Theresa Choi Mrs. Joyce Tam Grade 1 (3 classes) Mrs. Sarah Faber Mrs. Joyce Kwan/Mrs. Anne Langille Mrs. Winnie Wong Grade 2 (3 classes) Mrs. Carlee Chan Mrs. Trisha Miller/Mrs. Liz Johnson Ms. Amy Chao Grade 3 (3 classes) Ms. Angie Au Ms. Sonya Park Mrs. Jessica Duncan Grade 4 (3 classes) Mrs. Ruth Flannigan/Mrs. Trudy Jenkins Ms. Karina Wiebenga Mrs. Kelly Blackmore Grade 5 (2 classes) Mr. Ian Morrison Mrs. Hannah Buikema/Mrs. Jeanine Wasik Grade 6 (3 classes) Ms. Jessica Menagé Mr. Jacob Rodgers Ms. Monica Elford French Ms. Vivian Lew Grades 3-6 Music Instrumental/Vocal Mrs. Tina Shrimer Grades 2-6, Mrs. Rebecca Visser Grades K-1 Educational Support Services Mrs. Mabel Sluis, Ms. Lindsay Chimick Learning Assistance Mrs. Cheryl Embree, Ms. Sophia Tsang Educational Support Services Assistants

Ms. Nicole Chimick Ms. Mary Kim Mrs. Susan Roberts Mrs. Harriet Busch Ms. Casie Lee Ms. Tanja Rokeby Mrs. Deborah Coppen Mrs. Elizabeth Loewen Mrs. Vanessa Uy Ms. Emily Duifhuis Mrs. Jeyne Lund Mrs. Bev Wall Ms. Melody Hung Ms. Jamal Mya Mrs. Ruth Wat

Classroom Teacher Assistants: Ms. Susan Chua, Ms. Dawnie Kahng, and Ms. Colleen Beunk SOI Mrs. Marne Stelzer and Mrs. Linda Rozak Administrative Assistant Mrs. Betty Chien Administrative Assistant Mrs. Gloria Redaon Bookkeeper Mrs. Vanessa Klein Librarian Mrs. Janice Gifford Janitor Mrs. Anna and Mr. Gordie Forbes Network Administrator Mr. Luke Qi School Counsellor Ms. Cynthia Chernoff/Ms. Tiffany Tong Educational Psychologist Intern Ms. Stephanie Martin Facility Maintenance Mr. Fred Hizsa

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John Knox Christian School Board Chairperson Mr. John Vegt Vice-Chairperson Mrs. Francine Anselmo Mrs. Deb Bliss Mr. Tommy Cheung Mrs. Pansy Hwang Mr. Nick Vanderkwaak OTHER AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS District 12 of Christian Schools International Society of Christian Schools in B.C. (SCSBC) Mr. Ed Noot Executive Director Mr. Darren Spyksma and Mr. Greg Gerber, Directors of Learning Ms. Cathy Kits, Financial Stewardship Coordination 7600 Glover Road Langley, B.C. V3A 6H4 Phone: 604-888-6366 Website: www.twu.ca/scsbc Federation of Independent School Associations (FISA) Shawn Chisholm - Executive Director 4885 Saint John Paul II Way Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 0G3 Phone: 604-684-6023 Website: www.direct.ca/fisa/ --------------------------------- DAILY TIME SCHEDULE ELEMENTARY (Gr. K-3) INTERMEDIATE (Gr. 4-7) 8:25 AM First Bell 8:35 AM Class Start Time: 8:30 am Class Start Time: 8:40 am 2:50 PM Closing Bell 3:00 PM

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SCHOOL CLOSURE - INCLEMENT WEATHER If travelling conditions are treacherous due to snowy/icy roads, please listen to CKNW (980)AM and/or Global TV for possible school closures. If the school is closed for the day, a message will also be posted on our website, parents will get an email, and a message may be left on the school’s voice mail. School Phone number: 604-522-1410. The decision about whether or not to close the school is made between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Please use parental discretion when deciding whether to drive to the school when weather conditions are questionable. We do not want any parents to feel that they need to put their child at risk in order to attend school. TRAFFIC FLOW 1. Please enter on 12th Avenue and exit the property on 13th Avenue 2. Load or unload students immediately – Park only in designated areas. 3. Do not let students leave your vehicle from the left side. 4. Students must not run out from between cars or cross the road by themselves. 5. The on-site speed limit is 10 km/hr. STUDENT VISITORS Student visitor arrangements must be made through the principal, vice principal or divisional administrator at least one day in advance of a visit. Unless visitors are considering enrollment at John Knox Christian School, they may not visit while class is in session. All student visitors are expected to respect the school rules.

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ENROLMENT & REGISTRATION

ENROLMENT PROCEDURES 1. Interested parents can receive an INFORMATION PACKAGE about the school

from the school office or from the school website. 2. Kindergarten applicants must turn 5 and Grade 1 applicants must turn 6 by

December 31 of the year they start school. 3. As part of the application process, previous schools may be contacted and students

may be tested for academic placement. The administration team will determine what information is needed. John Knox Christian School (JKCS) will consider accepting a student if the school can provide programs that meet the child’s educational needs.

4. Original documents of Citizenship or Permanent Resident status for both student AND parents must be submitted (to be photocopied) for verification before any meeting with the principal.

5. Enrollment at JKCS is a partnership which requires that the home and the school work together in harmony. The first three months are considered an evaluation/adjustment period. At any time during this probationary period it may be necessary to review the enrollment.

6. If there is a vacancy in a grade, a meeting may be arranged with the principal when all documentation has been received.

7. Once acceptance has been confirmed, the school requires a non-refundable $300 deposit which will be applied towards the first month tuition and a one-time $25 Emergency Kit fee. After the parents have read the information package, questions about the school and its program may be answered by the secretary or principal.

8. John Knox is a Christian School. We are a community of families who deeply value

our Christian faith. To nurture this foundation, new families and students are enrolled on the basis of the following categories for student acceptance:

a. Students presently enrolled. b. Siblings of students presently enrolled. c. Children of parents or guardians who regularly attend the First Christian

Reformed Church of New Westminster (with whom we have a historic, neighbourly relationship) and/or Alumni who wish to send their children to our school.

d. Students who, or whose parents or guardians regularly attend a Bible-based Christian church.

e. Parents who earnestly seek a Christ-centered education for their child(ren), but who do not attend a Christian church, will be asked to attend an Alpha program (a seminar introducing the Christian faith) and to commit to supporting the school.

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f. The Board of Directors believes that parents who desire to send their children to JKCS should be familiar with the educational direction towards which the school is committed. The Board believes this for two reasons:

i) Our school seeks a cooperative working relationship with parents in the belief that home and school have to work together in the Christian nurture of our children. ii) The educational program at JKCS is based on a philosophy that is not found in many other schools. It is important that parents understand our uniqueness and be willing to work with the school towards its stated goals. For these reasons an orientation meeting will be held early in the school year and all new parents are expected to attend. Parents who after the orientation session sign a Membership Application indicating they are in full agreement with the Constitution, By-Laws and Elements of Christian Education, as recorded in the school’s Constitution and Bylaws document, may join the school society as voting members. John Knox Christian School is committed to showing all applicants respect as image-bearers of God irrespective of their gender, race, culture, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. TUITION PAYMENT The Board requires that tuition be paid by ten (10) preauthorized payments from September to June, as most expenses are incurred during that time. Each family is required to complete a tuition form together with a preauthorized payment form. For those families wishing to make one tuition payment on September 1, cheques should be made payable to John Knox Christian School for the full amount of the yearly tuition, less any discounted amount, as advised by the Board from year to year.

JOHN KNOX CHRISTIAN SCHOOL TUITION SCHEDULE FOR 2018/2019

Grade of Oldest Child 1 Child 2 Children 3+ Children International

Students K-Grade 3 $7,650 $9,800 $10,900 $16,000

Grades 4-5 $7,750 $10,000 $11,100 $16,500

Grades 6-7 $8,200 $10.450 $11,600 $17,000 Grades 8-9 $8,700 $10,900 $12,100 $18,000 Grades 10-12 $9,500 $12,900 $14,150 $19,000

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GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

SAFETY Staff at John Knox Christian School believe that student safety is a first priority. The following policies help keep our students safe. ABSENTEES

If a student will be absent, the PARENTS are requested to complete the online form on our website johnknoxbc.org/absentee-form/ OR phone the school before 9:00 a.m. The student must bring a note upon their return to school stating the reason for the absence only if a website form has NOT be completed. Our Government Funding is dependent upon a student attending 135 days of school by May 15th. Sick days are counted as being in attendance. Absences, other than for medical reasons, do not count towards the 135 days total.

UNAUTHORIZED SCHOOL HOLIDAYS or FAMILY HOLIDAYS We encourage you to plan all family vacations to coincide with scheduled school holidays. Much of the vital learning that happens in the classroom cannot be packaged and sent home. Asking teachers to provide work for children who are away for unexcused absences creates significant work for teachers, who must prepare work for the child’s absence and “catch them up” when they return. If it is absolutely necessary that you to take your child out of school during the school year, we ask that you inform the principal and your child’s teacher in writing. We would like to remind you that the Board's policy is that students must attend all regularly scheduled school days, except if absences are due to medical reasons. If arrangements to miss school have not been made according to the aforementioned guidelines, the teachers are not responsible for work missed by students. During inexcusable absenteeism days, upper grade students may receive 0% on tests and assignments.

DISCIPLINE POLICY John Knox Christian School has developed a set of regulations of which we would like students to be aware. We ask parents to support us in the enforcement of these rules and guidelines. GUIDELINES OF DISCIPLINE AT JOHN KNOX CHRISTIAN SCHOOL The guidelines of discipline at John Knox Christian School are positive and restorative. Students are encouraged to “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.” While students are to conform to the image of Christ, we realize that no one is perfect and that expectations are not always met. Although we do not expect perfection, an earnest desire to meet school expectations as well as biblical standards is a necessity. Students are taught to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love their neighbour as themselves. This provides the foundational standard for the goals of our discipline policy.

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SEQUENCE OF DISCIPLINE Minor and first time disciplinary issues will be discussed with the child directly without notifying the parents. Significant issues or those with an observed pattern will be communicated directly to the parents. When some form of discipline is necessary, appropriate consequences will be given at that time. The sequence of discipline is as follows: 1. Problem Solving and or In-School Counseling: a student has the opportunity to

discuss behaviour with a staff member to ensure understanding of school guidelines and to develop alternate ways to respond to similar circumstances. Appropriate consequences will result, and ongoing counseling support may be required.

2. Progressive Discipline: repeated occurrences may result in increased consequences.

3. Suspension: a student is removed from the day to day life of the school for a period of time.

4. Probation: a student is placed on a behavioural contract with regard to specific behavioural concerns.

5. Permanent Removal from the School: this can be done by parents/guardians withdrawing their child from the school or by expulsion. If expelled, the student loses the privilege of attending John Knox Christian School. The school may expel a student whose conduct consistently conflicts with the school’s behavioural standards and program. The school board and the principal make the final decisions about expulsions.

Sometimes there will be variations in the consequence given for similar student behaviours. Although not limited to these factors – age, maturity, intent and a record of previous misdemeanors will be considered when disciplining a student. Depending on the seriousness of the infraction, one or more steps in the disciplinary process may be left out.

HUMAN DIGNITY POLICY (BULLYING HARASSMENT) John Knox Christian School intends to provide its staff members and students with a safe supportive environment, one that is free from offensive kinds of behaviour. Conduct, whether intentional or unintentional, that subjects another person to unwanted attention, comments, or actions because of gender, race, culture, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. Instead, we expect all persons to treat each other with respect.

A. We do not condone or allow harassment of others by teachers,

administrators, support staff, students or other persons at school or school events.

B. Any person who believes they have been subjected to harassment should report it immediately to an appropriate superior. Students may report to a teacher, administrator, or counsellor. Teachers should report an offence to their administrator. If a report is about the conduct of an administrator, the offence should be reported to the chairperson

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of the school board. Each report will be given serious consideration and investigated appropriately.

C. Reports of harassment and subsequent investigations will be handled discreetly to avoid embarrassment of the person making the report or of a person who may be unjustly accused.

D. Any person who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action including the possibility of employment termination (for staff members) or expulsion (for students).

E. Sexual harassment includes: - making unwelcome sexual advances, - engaging in improper physical contact, - making improper sexual comments, - writing a note to someone else, either electronically or by

hand, with content that may be construed as sexual, - Using words (written or spoken), pictures, objects, gestures,

or actions relating to sexual activity to create a sexually intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning or working environment.

F. Any other form of ridicule of others based on race, physical characteristics, ability, family background, or similar feature is harassment. Persons engaging in this misbehaviour will be disciplined.

G. All students and all school employees are expected to conduct themselves with respect for the dignity of others.

SOCIETY OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA RATIONALE FOR REPORTING AND MANAGEMENT OF

CHILD ABUSE PURPOSE This document outlines a Protocol for reporting and management of child abuse in Christian schools in the province of British Columbia. In this Protocol the use of any gender includes the other gender. STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLE The following basic principles are fundamental to the rationale for reporting child abuse and may serve to provide guidance when the protocols do not address a specific matter. A. The response of the Christian community to child abuse should be one of obedience

to the Word of God and instituted authorities, and guided by principles of justice, mercy, compassion and healing with love.

B, The protection of the child is paramount. If there is any doubt in the reporting or management of child abuse, the person should err on the side of protecting the child. This does not, however, obviate the need to assist other persons affected by the child abuse.

C. The primary responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of the child lies with the parents or guardians.

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D. Sin may corrupt the relationship between the child and the parents or guardians or other adults. The Christian community must recognize that it is not immune to the problems of child abuse.

E. The State has the authority from God to intervene in the relationship between the child and the parents, or guardians or other adults, only when the parents or guardians are unable or unwilling to ensure the safety and well-being of the child or when assistance is requested by the family. The State also has the authority from God to use the means at its disposal to protect a child from abuse.

F. The Christian community is responsible to protect and support the abused child when the parents or guardians are unable or unwilling to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.

G. The Christian community should cooperate with the instituted authorities concerning the problem of child abuse.

H. The Christian community must be sensitive to the particular needs of the child in the reporting and management of child abuse.

I. The focus of the Christian community should be the prevention of child abuse. STUDENT REGULATIONS Dress and Demeanour at School and any School Event

1. Students are expected to use wholesome language and must be respectful of other students and adults.

2. All our elementary campus students are expected to dress appropriately and modestly. Any logos on clothing should be in good taste. Spaghetti straps, tube tops, and bare midriff shirts are not allowed. Shorts and shirts should be of proper length. Caps are to be removed upon entering the building. Student clothing and demeanor should reflect a wholesome Christian attitude.

School Times 1. Students should arrive at school after 8:15 a.m. because there is no morning

supervision. 2. At the end of the school day, students should leave the building by 3:15 p.m. 3. Students should be on time for all classes. Students who arrive late must report to

the office for a late slip. Excessive tardiness will lead to parents being contacted by the administration. Students of Grades 4-7 may earn after school detentions for habitual tardiness.

4. If leaving the premises for any reason during regular school hours, please report to the office when leaving and returning.

Morning and Lunch Breaks 1. Students are to remain outdoors in the morning before the bell and during breaks,

except when given permission by their teacher to be in the classroom. Before school, students may wait outside under an overhang until the bell rings.

2. Snow is beautiful to enjoy, but it can be used to cause injuries; therefore, snowball throwing and face washing are not allowed on the John Knox Christian School property.

3. Students may only leave the schoolyard during school hours with permission from their teacher or the principal. This means that students may not retrieve an over-thrown ball from a neighbour’s yard without permission from the supervising teacher.

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4. Parents, please don’t take your children off campus during lunch breaks, as this disrupts monitoring and easily leads to tardiness.

School Property and Equipment 1. Using school equipment in ways for which it is not intended can cause damage or

injury to students. Climbing the fence, climbing onto the roof and dangling from the basketball hoop is not permitted.

2. Students may not remove equipment from other classrooms, the gym or the sports equipment room. Class monitors are responsible for taking out and returning all equipment. Students must have teacher approval to use audio-visual equipment, the photocopier or the phone.

3. Keep all coats, lunches and backpacks in assigned lockers. 4. Treat all school property, including furniture and books, with respect and care.

i. Keep your school and school property clean. ii. Place all garbage in trash containers. iii. Keep lockers clean and free from graffiti or attachments (e.g. stickers,

pictures). iv. Keep desks tidy and clean. v. Keep floors clean. vi. Remove dirty footwear before entering the classrooms.

Lunches and Snacks

1. Parents are asked to provide their children with a nutritious snack that will be eaten during a short recess snack-time in the morning.

2. Food should be eaten in the classrooms during snack-time and lunchtime. Eating is not permitted on the school grounds or in the halls.

3. No gum chewing is allowed on the school premises or during regular school hours or at any school functions.

Other

1. Observe the following rules when using the bathrooms: i. Limit use during classroom time ii. Avoid gathering in the bathroom iii. Do not litter iv. Wash your hands before you leave v. Take personal belongings with you when you leave.

2. Do not run or congregate in the hallways. 3. Students are not allowed to skateboard or rollerblade on school property until after

5:00 p.m. on school days. The school will not be held liable for injuries incurred by skateboarders or rollerbladers.

4. No electronic toys of any kind, including IPods, MP3 Players, video games or laser games are permitted at school, at school functions, or on school trips, unless teacher permission has been granted.

5. Arrangements for student visitors must be made in advance through the Vice Principal. Unless visitors are considering enrolment in John Knox Christian School, we highly recommend that they refrain from visiting during school hours, as visitors can be distracting to our students. Visitors are required to follow school rules.

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SCHOOL CONGESTION We request parents wait in the front foyer until the bell rings. After school, have your children meet you in the foyer or at a designated spot outside. Please note all exit doors at the school are locked from the outside to provide a secure school environment. Please Do Not use exit doors as a point of entrance into the school. LOCKERS Lockers are assigned to the students at the beginning of the school year. Each student is expected to keep their locker neat and clean. Periodic locker inspections are held. LIBRARY The elementary campus school library is open on a regular basis for the students to check out reading and resource materials. Library books may be kept for one week. Any books damaged or lost must be paid for by the student.

FIRE DRILLS PROCEDURE A number of fire drills are held each year. Whenever the fire alarm rings, everybody in the building must leave through a designated exit and meet in the assigned areas. Each classroom has a map posted near the door showing the route to be taken and the place to assemble. The principal will issue a signal to re-enter the building. EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURE Because our school is located in an earthquake-prone area, we want to remind you that in the event of an earthquake, the subsequent procedures will be followed: No student will be dismissed from school unless a parent (or guardian designated by a parent) comes for him/her. No child will be allowed to leave with another person, even a relative or babysitter, unless we have written permission to that effect, or unless that particular person is listed on the student's emergency card in our files. All parents or designated guardians who come for students must sign out their child at the office or at the alternative Student Release Station. We are prepared to care for children in the event of a critical situation, or if parents are not able to reach the school. Our Staff have First Aid training and will be in communication with local emergency services. We do ask for your help in the following areas:

- Please do not call the school as we must have the lines open for emergency calls. - Following an earthquake or other emergency, do not immediately drive to the

school. Streets and access to our school may be cluttered with debris. The school access route and street entrance areas must remain clear for emergency vehicles.

Each new student is required to pay a one-time fee of $25.00 for our Emergency Preparedness supplies.

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LOCKDOWN PROCEDURE The Principal will make an announcement over the PA indicating that lockdown procedures must begin. Teachers will secure the classroom doors, turn off the lights and direct students to be silent and to move away from windows.

MEDICAL PROGRAM The aim of the Community Health Nurse is to aid in maintaining the physical well-being of all school children. Throughout the year, various routine screening procedures will be carried out in the school. The Preventive Program includes vision, hearing and dental screening. In addition, teachers receive training in administering an epipen. All children entering Kindergarten should have a booster of Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus (DPT) and Oral Polio. This may be done by a family doctor, a local Health Unit, or a Child Health Centre. The DPT booster is effective for 10 years. Children should also have been immunized twice for Measles, Mumps and Rubella. All grade 6 students are offered the Hepatitis B, Meningococcal C and Chicken Pox vaccine. Grade 6 girls are offered the HPV vaccine. Parents are requested to periodically check their children for signs of head lice. If you discover head lice on your child, inform the school and DO NOT send your child to school until after successful treatment. For confirmation of diagnosis and recommendation of proper treatment, call the Burnaby Health Department (604-918-7605). If your child requires medication at school, and if it is necessary for a member of the staff to administer this medication, the School Nurse will provide you with a letter to your doctor and the necessary form to be completed by your doctor. HOMEWORK Excerpts from: Ending the Homework Hassle: Understanding, Presenting and Solving School Performance Problems by John Rosemond. Kansas City: Andrews and McMeel, 1990. ISBN 0-8362-2807-3. The Seven Hidden Values of Homework: 1) Responsibility 4) Time Management 7) Resourcefulness 2) Autonomy 5) Initiative 3) Perseverance 6) Self-Reliance For Parents: The ABC’s of Effective Homework Management: A. All by myself: Have the child do his homework in a private, personal place,

such as in his own room. B. Back off: Parents should get involved only if asked by the child, and

should limit their involvement to: - clarifying or reinterpreting directions, -demonstrating or giving examples of a particular procedure, -reviewing or checking work for accuracy, clarity and

adequacy C. Call it quits: At a reasonable, consistent hour, such as 8:00 pm, end the

homework time. (It is best if the child takes responsibility for deciding when to begin their homework).

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SLEEP ON IT Here are some guidelines for “reasonable” bed times for students: Grades K – 2:7:00 – 7:30 p.m.Grades 3 – 5:8:00 – 8:30 p.m.Grades 6 – 8:8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Most researchers agree on the following sleep estimates based on the age of the child:

One-year-old: 14 hours, including one or two naps. Two-year-old: 11 to 12 hours at night, including a single after-lunch nap that lasts

one to two hours. Three-year-old: 12 to 12 ½ total hours, with some kids stopping naps. Five-year-old: 11 hours with most kids stopping naps by this age. Six-year-old: 10 ¾ to 11 hours. Seven-year-old: 10 ½ to 11 hours. Eight-year-old: 10 ¼ to 10 ¾ hours. Nine-year-old: 10 to 10 1/3 hours. Age 10 through puberty: 9 ¾ to 10 hours. Teens: 9 ¼ hours

(Recommended by:Knight-Ridder)

COMMUNICATION

STUDENT AGENDAS In Grades 4-6, students will receive a Student Agenda. The agendas are used to assist the student in completing his/her homework. Parents are encouraged to check their child’s agenda for homework assignments and/or notes from the student’s teacher.

THE “TIMES”NEWS The “Times” newsletter is published every second and fourth Thursday/Friday of the month and highlights the events that take place within the school community. The newsletter is available via email, sent home upon request with the youngest sibling in the family, and highlights are posted on our school website. Any submissions for the newsletter must be made to the principal before 3:00 pm Tuesdays.

WEBSITE All parents and students are encouraged to check our website www.johnknoxbc.org for regular information about our school. NEW PARENT ORIENTATION All new parents to the school must attend an orientation evening in September of their commencing school year. The purpose of this orientation is to provide parents with details about the daily operation of the school.

STUDENT PROGRESS AND EVALUATION Our reporting practices are currently under revision so that our JKCS Reporting Policies and Practices are compliant with the recently mandated BC Ministry of Education Student

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Reporting Policy Guidelines and Orders. Although transitions in our reporting practices will unfold over the course of this school year, students and parents can expect:

• Timely and responsive reporting throughout the year • A minimum of 5 reporting events, presented as a combination of formal and

informal parts • Reports that reflect student learning and progress in relation to the most current

curriculum learning standards.

PROCEDURE FOR VOICING PARENTAL CONCERNS: There may be times when parents have a concern or a complaint related to something that happened at school. We encourage openness and honesty throughout any process related to achieving a healthy resolution to parental concerns or complaints. As a Christian School, we follow the Matthew 18:15-19 Principle. In summary, the Matthew 18 principle requires that individuals talk to each other about issues before they talk to the Principal. If unresolved at the two people level, the matter is prayerfully and in an orderly fashion moved upward in the organizational structure. Please note the following: 1. If your issue has anything to do with the child’s teacher, share your concern first with the teacher, with the intention of working together to resolve the issue. 2. If your meeting with the teacher does not result in a satisfactory outcome, please book an appointment to talk to the school vice principal about your concern. The vice principal will arrange a meeting with involved parties and oversee the process of working toward a healthy resolution. If the concern is not satisfactorily resolved with the vice principal, bring your concern to the attention of the principal. 3. If you have a general concern that is not related to your child or their teacher, please bring your concern to the attention of involved parties or to the attention of the school principal. STUDENT PLACEMENT PROCESS When making up classes for the following year, our goal is to create balanced, teachable classes so that optimal teaching/learning practises can occur. Each year team/teachers create class rosters after thoughtfully considering the variety of their students’ cognitive and social/emotional needs (i.e. learning strengths and weaknesses, friendships, motivation and special needs). The Learning Support Services team also advocates for the optimal placement of children with unique learning support needs. We value parent input regarding the educational factors that they consider important for their child’s learning success. The respective school principal is happy to accept written letters that outline these factors. If you submit your letter by May 15th, the information you provide will be considered within student placement rationale discussions. We ask that the letters focus on educational factors rather than upon a request for a particular teacher.

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SPECIAL PROGRAMS EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES The Bible states clearly that man was created in the image of God. Genesis 1:27 reads: "So God created them in His own image; in the image of God He created them." Though all are created in His image, we are all different, one from another! As such, each child is an individual with individual gifts, talents and characteristics received from his/her Creator. The Educational Support Services (ESS) staff is available at the school to facilitate successful and enriched learning experiences for all students. We provide in-class assistance and individual and small group directed teaching. We believe that utilizing both methods will maximize student learning opportunities. In support of a team approach, we collaborate with teachers, parents, students and outside agencies concerning the learning needs of the students we work with. By being involved in the classroom on a daily basis, ESS staff strive to meet the needs of all students in their learning environment. The ESS staff consists of coordinators and educational assistants who work with parents in planning and implementing programs that meet the criteria Individual Educational Plans (IEP). ESS Staff implement a variety of programs. These programs include but are not limited to teaching phonemic awareness to all kindergarten students, providing sensory integration programs that enhance student learning potential, coordinating speech and language services at school, providing enrichment activities in class and in small groups and modifying and adapting curriculum to suit the individual needs of some students. In the Educational Support Services program we aim to keep learning exciting and stimulating for students and to help students develop confidence in their God-given gifts and abilities. KINDERGARTEN SCHEDULE There are three kindergarten classes at John Knox Christian School. The classes meet full days every day of the school week. In September we schedule a gradual entry for Kindergarten students. COUNSELLING SUPPORT John Knox Christian School provides 3 days of counselling support for our students Kindergarten through Grade 12. Need is assessed by our staff on a case by case basis.

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CHAPEL Chapel occurs Monday morning at 8:50 a.m. for the Primary students. An all-school chapel occurs on the first Monday of the month. The intermediate grades most often hold their chapels on the third Wednesday of each month. RUNNING PROGRAM At recess time, students in Grades 3-6 are involved in a mandatory running program. The students run around a prescribed city block and the number of laps they run is recorded. The following rules apply: a) Students are to run the long sides and may walk the short ends of each block. b) Students are not allowed to “cut” corners, bunch up, push or play games while running. c) Students must run on the inside of the sidewalk so passing can occur on the left side. d) Students are not to run on lawns or to touch vehicles. A warm-up session helps teach students proper running techniques, by emphasizing dynamic stretching prior to running. The goal of doing pre-running exercises is to focus on students’ overall health, to help them become more successful runners, and to teach them to prevent injuries. Running Days: Grades 5-6 will run on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.The Grade 3 and 4 students will run together on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Grade 4 students also run on Fridays. Minimum Laps: The minimum number of laps for Grades 4-6 students is 4. The grade 3 students are not assigned a minimum number of laps, but most usually run 3 laps. Awards: At the end of the school year students in grades 4-6 are awarded a ribbon if they run between 100 km – 149 km, a medal if they run between 150 km-199 km and a trophy if they run over 200 km. Students in grade 3 are awarded a participatory ribbon if they run less than 100 km, a medal if they run between 100 – 150 km and a trophy if they run over 135 km.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

INTERSCHOOL SPORTS PROGRAM Sports Philosophy The Middle School sports program exists to give all students opportunities to grow and excel in the area of athletics. The program strives to engage and challenge students with differing abilities while they participate in competitive and non-competitive sports. It is necessary that students take responsibility for the areas listed below: Attendance It is essential that students attend all practices and games. Attitude A goal of the Middle School Athletic Department is to develop Christian character in young and developing athletes. Athletes need to respect and obey coaches and officials. They

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must respect their teammates, their opponents, and the facilities being used. John Knox Christian School would like to develop athletes who are coachable, eager to apply skills taught, self-controlled, determined and humble. Practicing Time Management The Management of Inter-school sports teams requires a large commitment of staff and student time. Students face the challenge of balancing their games and practice times with other obligations. Academics take priority over sports. Students must fulfill their homework obligations before being permitted to participate in team sports. Leagues John Knox Christian School participates in a variety of sports leagues. Depending on the event, most teams from Grades 4-7 participate in the Christian Elementary School Sports League (CESS). In this league, the only official games take place at season-end tournaments. Exhibition games may take place in preparation for tournaments. Player Selection It is the objective of Intermediate School staff to allow as many interested students as possible to participate in team sports. To this end, coaches do their best to encourage and facilitate participation. Because inter-school tournaments restrict the number of participants, we also run a rotation of lunch-time intramural sports events for all upper- grade students. By Grade 7, the focus of coaching shifts to the refinement of skills at an elevated level of play. Coaches may select students based upon ability and skill development. Coaches The Intermediate Grades Athletic Department depends on volunteer parent help. Please contact Mr. Morrison if you are able to share your time and expertise in a particular sport. CLUBS Various cross-grade clubs at the elementary campus are available during some months of the school year. Staff and parent volunteers run student clubs during noon hour breaks or after school. Secondary Campus: Students at the Secondary Campus are encouraged to sign up and participate in the various clubs.

INTRAMURALS - Seasonal STUDENT LEADERSHIP Grade 6 Student nominated leadership teams plan and organize special fun days and activities throughout the school year. The Student Leadership Team operates under the guidance of a teacher and/or volunteer parent. CHAPEL WORSHIP TEAMS Students in Grade 6 are encouraged to participate on a Chapel Worship Team. Participating students gain experiences in leading worship by singing or playing a musical instrument during chapel services.

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SCHOOL SPONSORED MINISTRIES

HOLT INTERNATIONAL AGENCY Our students sponsor two orphans through the Holt Adoption Agency. The cost for providing shelter, food, medical care and education for these children is about one cent, per day, per student. The school regularly receives information on the progress of Holt Adoption Agency children. Many children have been adopted during the past years. This program was started in the school to help teach our students to share the abundant resources the Lord has given us. We have various fundraising activities to support this cause (i.e. The Coin Drive).

LIVING STONES VILLAGE This organization in China does important work in God’s kingdom assisting children with disabilities. We are privileged to have the ability to tithe 10% of our Knox Walk fundraising to our friends at the Living Stones Village. UNION GOSPEL MISSION On special occasions students are asked to bring an item of non-perishable food to donate to the Union Gospel Mission. Support of this ministry helps our students become aware of the needy right here in our community.

COMPUTER USE GUIDELINES

Computer classes are teacher-directed. As students’ progress through the grades, the computer program expands and it becomes increasingly critical that they understand proper computer use protocols. Parents are essential to the ongoing process of teaching their children to use technology responsibly. For this reason, parents and their children are required to sign a Computer Use Agreement. If the terms of the agreement are violated by your child, permission to use school computers may be revoked. Please read through the Computer Use Agreement form attached below. Your child’s classroom teacher will send home a form to be signed and returned to the school, upon entry into grade 4 and again in grade 7.

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JOHN KNOX CHRISTIAN SCHOOL COMPUTER USE AGREEMENT

Students will have access to the John Knox Christian School (JKCS) computer/Internet systems for educational purposes under the instruction of teaching staff. Before access is given, parents must give permission for their son/daughter to use the computer/Internet systems and students must agree to comply with the following rules:

1. I understand the values of John Knox Christian School and will uphold these values as I use the computer/Internet systems.

2. I will use the computer/Internet systems for educational purposes only, as instructed by teaching staff.

3. I will not have food or beverages around the computer systems. 4. I will use correct log-on and log-off procedures. 5. I will not share my password with others, and will not log on as anyone else. I will

respect the privacy of other users. 6. I will not change or alter the computer icons, or change or alter passwords without

a teacher’s permission. 7. I will refrain from going into private files (software/hardware) that belong to JKCS

staff, students or teachers. 8. I will not install, move, delete download, upload, reconfigure or modify any

software/hardware files without permission of a teacher. 9. I will not compose or transmit anything that may disrupt, crash, or disable the

security features of the computer/Internet systems. I will follow all precautions to prevent viruses from being introduced onto the school’s computers.

10. I will immediately report any known damage, viruses, or change on the computer/Internet systems to a JKCS staff member.

11. I will respect software programs that are copyrighted, and will not violate license agreements by copying protected media.

12. I will not use the computer/Internet systems to participate in any form of online messaging/chat, blogging or social networking sites, such as but not limited to Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. I will only use this type of site if I am granted permission by a supervising teacher.

13. I will not use the computer/Internet systems for online or personal game applications or gambling.

14. I will use appropriate language in all communication on the computer/Internet systems. I will not use abusive, threatening, profane, or obscene language/material. I will not participate in cyber bullying, hate mail, or harassment. I will not use the computer/Internet systems to access, purchase or sell goods and services.

Parent’s Name: Parent’s Signature:

Student’s Name: Student’s Signature:

Date: