Escambia Academy Rules and Policies

A.   General Admissions
At least one parent or guardian of any student wishing to enroll at Escambia Academy must first complete and submit an “Application for Admission” form and remit the $250 registration fee.  Applications from non-members will be placed on a priority waiting list until after the end of the pre-registration period for members. After the pre-registration period, if a non-member application cannot be accepted due to class size limitations, the registration fee will be refunded.

For purposes of making application for registration or pre-registration to EA, a “family unit” consists of one adult who has accepted financial responsibility for the expenses of attending EA for their own children and the children of their spouse who are living in the same household as the financially responsible adult. Each “family unit” must make a separate application for admission or pre-registration, accompanied by payment of the respective fees.

The Headmaster and the Recruitment and Admissions Committee of the Board of Directors will review the application.  Within a reasonable period of time the Recruitment and Admissions Committee will make a decision to either admit the student on a probationary basis or to deny admission.

The probationary status will remain in effect until the student’s transcripts are received and the Board of Directors meets.  A final decision will be made concerning the student’s actual admission to Escambia Academy at the next meeting of the Board of Directors following the receipt of all required documents and fees.

Escambia Academy admits students without regard to race, color, gender, religion or national origin.

B.   Pre-registration
In early spring (dates to be set annually by the Board of Directors) an in-house pre-registration will be held for member families.  During this pre-registration period, current EA families are given the opportunity to register their students for the upcoming school year before registration is opened to the public.  All accounts must be up-to-date in order to qualify for pre-registration. In the event that during this pre-registration period there are more registrations for any particular class than the maximum class size limits permit, first priority will be given to those students who are properly registered and currently attending EA in the proper grade.  Any openings remaining in the class will be filled in the order in which the in-house registrations were received.  Any in-house registrations that cannot be accepted due to the class size will be put on a waiting list in the order in which the applications were received.

At any time designated by the Board of Directors applications may also be accepted from non-member families, along with the appropriate registration and testing fees. These applications will be placed on a “priority waiting list,” and will be processed immediately after the close of the pre-registration period. At that time non-member families on the priority waiting list will be admitted, as space is available. Once a student has been accepted the registration fee is non-refundable.  If a space is not available for a “priority wait list” applicant, the registration is refundable in the event that the applicant does not remain on the “priority wait list.”

C.   Student Re-evaluation Policy
Any student who has been suspended for any reason during the school year will require the approval of the Board of Directors prior to re-enrolling for the subsequent school year.

D.  Class Size
Enrollment at Escambia Academy is limited.  Escambia Academy believes that small classes are conducive to optimum learning.  Class size limits are as follows:
K-4 kindergarten: (19); K-5 kindergarten: (20); Grades 1-5: (24); Grades 6-8 (26); Grades 9-12 (28). The Headmaster and the Board of Directors will consider double sectioning a grade when the number of students on the waiting list indicates that such action would be financially feasible.

While Escambia Academy is not a church-sponsored school, it does strive to provide a Christian atmosphere for all of its participants.  Every class has a daily devotion during homeroom. In most cases, this routine consists of prayer, Bible reading, and/or a devotional. Escambia Academy has a Fellowship of Christian Athletes Club and other Christian groups, which serve to further this goal.

A.   Homeroom Mothers
The Homeroom Mothers help to coordinate many of the activities at Escambia Academy. They are active in raising funds to provide materials and equipment not available through the regular operating budget, they provide the workers for the concession stand at home football and basketball games, they support many volunteer activities, and they are responsible for all school-related class parties.

B.   VIP
These volunteers provide many services on a daily basis for the faculty and staff of Escambia Academy.  They arrive at the beginning of each school day and stay until 11:00 A.M.  Maintaining the sick room, making copies for teachers, delivering messages, laminating items for staff members, and running off the daily bulletin are among the many services these wonderful people provide.  Members are encouraged to participate in this worthwhile program.

Tuition and books will be billed to each family when applicable.  Checks presented to the school for payment on account will be deposited the day received in the office, or as soon thereafter as practical.  A finance charge of 1.5% per month on the unpaid balance will be added to past due accounts.  Monthly tuition payments are due in the office on or before 3:00 p.m. the 10th of the month. Payments not received by 3:00 p.m. on the 10th of the month are considered past due.  Students whose Family has not paid their tuition within 30 days of the due date will not be allowed to attend classes or participate in sporting events. There is a $30.00 service charge on all returned checks. Questions concerning billing should be directed to the school bookkeeper.  Tuition is billed for twelve months.  New students’ tuition payments begin in July.  Student records (including report cards) will not be released until all financial obligations are met.

Any changes of addresses and/or phone numbers should be given to the office as soon as possible after they occur. This information is especially critical for contacting members in the event of emergencies.

The mandatory insurance plan covers all students for treatment of bodily injury as a result of accidents occurring during school time; or when participating in school sponsored and supervised activities, whether at EA or away; when traveling directly to or from a school sponsored activity in a school provided vehicle; and when participating in interscholastic sports, school sponsored and supervised religious services and/or classes of religious instruction. The plan benefits are payable for covered expenses not covered and payable by any other plan providing medical expense benefits.  If there are no other valid and collectible benefits available from any other source, this plan will pay the covered expenses, up to the limit of the policy.

The school provides a lunchroom, which operates mainly as a service to parents and students. A lunch count will be taken weekly in homeroom. The lunchroom is set up to make a modest profit and still provide adequate lunches for the students. Those who sign up for lunch and do not eat will be charged for the food prepared unless they are absent due to illness.  If there is an incorrect lunch count, substitute food items may have to be provided to fulfill some orders.  No student will be denied food.

Homeroom is the period from 7:45 A.M. - 8:06 A.M.  Homeroom is used to take roll, fill out admission slips, have devotions, take lunch count, and conduct class business.  Any group with an announcement for the daily bulletin should make sure that it gets to the office the day before the announcement is to be made.

Students should not arrive to the campus before 7:15 A.M.  Those students arriving at or after 7:15 A.M. and before homeroom (7:40A.M.) shall report to the office. Students should also be off campus after 3:15 P.M. unless supervised by school personnel or unless they are involved in an athletic event. Parents and Guardians are advised that EA cannot be held responsible for injury or problems for students if these rules are not followed.

SCHOOL WILL NOT BE DISMISSED DURING A TORNADO WARNING DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY OF GETTING CAUGHT BETWEEN TWO PLACES OF SAFETY.
Escambia Academy will attempt to announce any closing due to inclement weather over the following radio station: WNSI 105.9 FM and by email.  Emergencies can be due to weather, a prison break, train derailment, or any other hazard that may threaten the students, faculty, and staff.

The headmaster, faculty, and staff welcome and encourage the opportunity to meet with students and parents to discuss any concerns or problems.  Appointments should be made in advance.  Conferences with high school and elementary faculty members can be scheduled during the planning period and before or after school.  Conferences should be set up in the office and made at least one (1) day in advance.  Two days will be designated on the school calendar for parent/teacher conferences.  Before the Headmaster is contacted about any complaint, the matter should first be taken up with the teacher involved.  If the matter is not resolved satisfactorily after direct contact with the teacher involved, the Headmaster should be contacted.  The Conflict Resolution Committee of the Board of Directors may be contacted if the problem is not resolved after consulting the Headmaster.

A.   General
Escambia Academy is genuinely interested in resolving membership complaints or grievances for the betterment of the entire school.  When a grievance occurs, an attempt is made to resolve the issue quickly and fairly at the lowest possible level.

B.    Conflict Resolution Procedure
1.    The member should first discuss any grievance, problem, or complaint with those directly involved in the issue.  Most grievances can be resolved in discussion at this stage.

2.    If Step 1 has been carried out and the concern cannot be resolved directly between the member and the staff or faculty person, the member may take the concern or grievance to the Headmaster.  The Headmaster will meet with the person(s) concerned in the hope that the issue can be resolved at this level.

3.    If the member is not satisfied with the Headmaster’s resolution, he/she may appeal the decision to the Grievance Committee of the Board of Directors.  The member shall place in writing the grievance/complaint and his/her reason for being dissatisfied with the Headmaster’s resolution/response.  The member and all parties concerned may choose to meet with the Grievance Committee of the Board at this time to seek a resolution.  The Grievance Committee shall inform all parties concerned of its decision in writing within a reasonable period of time.

4.    If the member is not satisfied with the decision of the Grievance Committee, he/she may appeal in writing to the Board of Directors, whose decision regarding the matter will be final.

IT HAS BEEN PROVEN THAT MOST GRIEVANCES/CONFLICTS/PROBLEMS CAN BE RESOLVED AT THE FIRST LEVEL, BETWEEN THE CONCERNED PARTIES.

Any member who knowingly and willfully defames Escambia Academy, its teachers, staff, or board members may, at the recommendation of the Board of Directors, forfeit their membership privileges, including withdrawal from all classes and forfeiture of any paid tuition.  The Board of Directors of Escambia Academy will not tolerate spreading of rumors, petitions or dissention within the membership.  Any problems within the school shall be addressed first with the teacher/staff member in question, followed by the Headmaster and finally the Board of Directors.  At the request of the member, the Headmaster will attend meetings held between the member and the faculty/staff member.

The office telephones are not for use by the students.  A student will be allowed to use the office phones only if they are conducting school business or if there is an emergency.  Parents and students must understand that forgotten lunches, books, P.E. clothes, and homework are not considered emergencies.

All articles of clothing, books, and other materials, which are found on the school campus, should be turned in to the office.  Students who have lost items should check periodically for them.  Students should put their names in all books and clothing.

If a child is injured or becomes ill at school, the office staff or teacher will immediately contact the parent or the emergency contact person indicated on the student’s health card.  A child who has a fever may not return to the classroom.  If a child is sick, he or she should be kept at home to prevent the illness from spreading to his or her classmates.  The school may conduct random checks for certain medical ailments such as measles, pink eye, head lice, or any other medical problem not be readily detectable by visual inspection.  Prescription medicines and over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol® can be given to elementary students if a note from the parent is sent to the teacher with the medication.  High school students must have a note from the parents attached to the health card giving the student permission to receive Tylenol®.  A separate policy concerning prescription medications will be given to each student and requires parental consent.

All physical education students in grades 6-12 are required to dress out in an acceptable gym uniform consisting of shirt, shorts, shoes, and socks.  The P.E. instructor will inform the students what is acceptable.  P.E. students will be graded mainly on dressing out and on participation.  It is the student’s responsibility to have his/her P.E. clothes at school every day.  A student can participate even if he/she forgets P.E. clothes.  A student will be excused only with a doctor’s excuse or with the P.E. instructor’s permission.

A.   General
Exams are given two times each school year for all students in grades 6-12.  A scheduled two- hour exam is given at the end of each semester.

B.    Test Schedules and Weighting

1.     The 6th grade will take a cumulative test each quarter.  The quarterly test will be averaged with the other grades for that quarter.  The 1st and 3rd quarter tests will be given during regular class time.  The 2nd and 4th quarter tests will be given during the scheduled exam time in December and May.  The semester grade will be the average of the two quarters.

2.   The 7th - 12th grades will take a cumulative semester exam during the scheduled exam time.  The exam will count 1/5 of the semester average.

3.   If a senior has a 90 average for first semester before the semester exam, he or she will have the privilege of exempting that semester exam.  Senior students who have a 90 average before the semester exams for second semester will have the privilege of exempting second semester exams.

Underclassmen do not have the privilege of exempting any exams.

Everyone is required to have at least one complete dress uniform except K-4 students. Uniforms are optional for K-4 students.  Dress uniforms will be worn on field trips, for chapel and when deemed suitable by headmaster or teacher.  Teachers and/or administrators will make an announcement prior to any event or day that will require the dress uniform.

DRESS UNIFORM:
Girls K-5-5th:  Plaid jumper or plaid skirt, short or long sleeved white Peter Pan blouse, white socks or white tights,           
Black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoe or black or brown leather shoe.

Girls 6-12th:  Plaid skirt, short or long-sleeved solid white button-down collar oxford cloth blouse, white socks or white tights, black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoes or black or brown leather shoe.

Boys --K-5-12th: Khaki colored uniform style pants, short or long sleeved solid white button-down collar oxford cloth shirt, black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoes or black or brown leather shoe, khaki, brown, black or white socks, black or brown belt.



EVERYDAY UNIFORM:

Girls—K-5-5th:  Khaki colored or navy shorts, skorts or uniform styled pants, white or maroon polo type knit shirt, white socks or tights, black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoe or black or brown shoe.

Girls—6-12th:   Khaki colored or navy shorts or uniform styled pants, white or maroon polo type knit shirt, white socks or tights, black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoe or black or brown leather shoe.

Boys—K-5-12th:  Khaki colored or navy shorts or uniform styled pants, white or maroon polo type knit shirt, white socks, black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoe or black or brown leather shoe, black or brown belt.



OUTERWEAR

The approved outerwear is a BLACK zip (even the half zip), snap or button front jacket or an Escambia Academy
sports issued letterman jacket.


ATHLETIC TEAMS:

Football:  Home game:  Wear football jersey over an undershirt
Away game:  Dress uniform with maroon/gold tie

Cheerleaders are allowed to wear their uniforms the day of the ball games.

All other sports (Volleyball, Softball, Track, Golf and Basketball):
Home games:  Polo style shirt, with the approved logo specific to the Sport, with everyday uniform shorts or
pants.
Away games:  Dress uniform for girls
Dress uniform for boys with maroon and gold tie

RULES FOR UNIFORMS:

1.      No logos, insignias, tags or patches displaying a designer name brand will be allowed on uniform pants, shirts or jackets.  You may have Escambia Academy embroidered on the shirts.  You may have Escambia Academy or the students name embroidered on the jackets, but is not a necessity.

2.      The Sunshine uniforms are still acceptable.

3.      The plaid skirt may be purchased at the Just for Kids or where ever you can buy A+ uniforms.  The number and color for the plaid is the A+ brand wine #4025.  The skirt may be pleated or plain.

4.      Girls skirts or shorts must be longer than their fingertips if they are standing straight with their arms at their side.  This applies to in or out of uniform days!

5.      Bloomers, panty covers or shorts must be worn under skirts at all times!

6.      All shoes MUST have a closed toe and a back.  NO SLIP ON SHOES!  No crock/Birkenstock-like shoes!  No backless, open toe or shoes with straps!  The only shoes that are acceptable are:  black, brown or white tennis/athletic shoes with matching laces.  Black or brown leather shoes may be worn.  NO other shoe is acceptable.  Shoes must be clean, in good repair and neatly ties or fastened.

7.      All shoelaces must match the color of your shoes… they must be white, black or brown.

8.     Shirts must be buttoned and tucked in at all times.

9.    Socks or tights must be worn at all times!!!  This applies to in or out of uniform days!  If a student chooses not to wear socks, he/she will be instructed to go to the uniform closet to purchase a pair of socks and the parent’ s school bill will be charged $5 per pair!

10.     White undershirts or white turtle neck shirts may be worn under uniform shirts, but are not required.  However, shirts with printing that is legible through the outer shirt may not be worn.  If a shirt is worn and the printing can be seen through the uniform shirt, that student will be asked to remove the shirt or be sent to the uniform closet to purchase an undershirt for $5.  This undershirt will be added to the parent’s school bill.  Also, if a girl chooses to wear an odd colored bra with a white shirt and it can be seen through the uniform shirt, they will also
Be sent to the uniform closet to purchase an undershirt.  White turtleneck shirts may ONLY be worn UNDER the uniform shirt.

11.    Outerwear should ALWAYS be worn OVER a uniform shirt…either a dress shirt or one of the optional shirts listed.

12.    No hoodies or sweatshirts are allowed.  No sports jackets may be worn unless they are the Escambia Academy letterman style that is approved.

13.    Uniform pants and shorts must have no more than 4 pockets and must be worn above the hip.  Uniforms must be in good repair at all times (i.e.…hemmed to not touch the ground, no holes, patches, slits, etc.)

14.    Sunglasses are not allowed indoors!

15.    Hats are not allowed indoors!

16.    No oversized belt buckles will be allowed.  The buckle must be in proportion with the belt.

17.     Any time there is an out of uniform day, skirts and shorts still have to follow the guidelines above for length.  And, shorts or bloomers must be worn under skirts AT ALL TIMES…in or out of uniform days.

18.  Piercing is only allowed in the girls’ ears.  No other piercing will be allowed.

19.  No exposed body art (temporary or permanent) on school grounds.

20.  Exam days are regular school days, therefore students should dress in uniform.

21.  Boys must be clean-shaven with no facial hair.  Sideburns must be no longer than the bottom of the earlobes.  Hair cannot come past eyebrows in front or below the earlobe.  No spiked, excessive long or radical hair styles (deemed inappropriate by the headmaster) will be allowed.

22.  The school recognizes that unforeseen problems may occur which make it temporarily impossible for a student to adhere to some part of the uniform code.  If this happens, the parent must contact and inform the headmaster immediately of the circumstance necessitating the student’s attending class without the proper attire needed to adhere to the uniform policy.

23.  If the student is out of uniform, the parent will be called to bring the student the correct uniform.  Uniform policy infractions will be handled in the same manner as any other infraction.

24.  Uniforms are available locally at Just 4 Kids and the Tot Shop.  You may also purchase uniforms at any retailer that carries the specific styles that we require.


AISA RULES

The following is a ruling from AISA.  The board of directors of Escambia Academy has also adopted this ruling for the students of Escambia Academy for all activities and events.

Body Art

Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with exposed permanent body art (tattoos).
Students may not participate in AISA state level and/or activities with exposed temporary body art which is insensitive, derogatory and/or deemed inappropriate by state officials.


Body Decorations/Piercing

Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with exposed body decorations (piercing).  No jewelry or body decorations are allowed at any level in AISA athletics.

Facial Hair / Hair Styles, etc.

Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with:
1.    Facial hair below the lobe of the ear and/or below the nose
2.    Spiked and/or other inappropriate hairstyles deemed so by state officials
3.    Un-natural coloration of the hair

A.  School Discipline Policy - General

Every student is expected at all times to keep in mind that his or her conduct should not interfere with others. A student may be disciplined by any member of the faculty or staff whenever necessary. Disciplinary measures will be commensurate with the offense. The school does have the right to administer corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure (no corporal punishment applied to K4 students).

B.   INFRACTIONS


CLASS I

*Gum/Candy
*Eating/Drinking
*Tardy to Class
*Uniform Violation
*Other Classroom Disruptions   
CLASS II

*Fighting
*Indecent Exposure/Pictures
*Property Damage
*Public Display of Affection
*Cursing
*Stealing
*Skipping School
*Bullying
--Verbal Harassment
--Physical Contact


CONSEQUENCES


CONSEQUENCES FOR TEACHERS
TO FOLLOW    CONSEQUENCES FOR HEADMASTER
TO FOLLOW      

1st Offense – Verbal Warning

2nd Offense – Teacher calls parents; one break    detention served

3rd Offense – Teacher calls parents; one afternoon detail served

4th Offense – Sent to headmaster’s office
(Refer to Class II consequences)   
1st Offense – Sent to headmaster’s office for verbal
warning and three afternoon work details;
headmaster contacts parents

2nd Offense – Paddling or one-day suspension;
parents meet/converse with headmaster

3rd Offense – Saturday School
Saturday School will be held the first Saturday
of each month; a $15 student fee will be charged

4th Offense – Parents meet with school board and
headmaster for further consequences     


Rules for ELECTRONIC DEVICES



*Electronic devices may be kept in the office or a vehicle during the school day.

*No electronic devices are to be used on campus during school hours.


ACTIONS TAKEN/CONSEQUENCES

1ST Offense – Teacher takes up device and turns it in to office;  the student may pick it up at the end of the day.

2nd Offense – Teacher takes up device and turns it in to office;  the parent/guardian may pick it up at the end of one week or pay a fee of $25 for early return.

3rd Offense and beyond – Teacher takes up device and turns it in to the office;  the weeks double for return time, or a $50 fee may be paid for early return to the parent/guardian.

Example:  4th Offense = two weeks that office keeps device;  5th Offense = four weeks;    
6th    Offense – eight weeks, etc.       

PROHIBITED BEHAVIORS

1.      Chewing Gum
Gum chewing in public is considered to be in bad taste.  Students are not to chew gum during school hours.

2.      Tobacco
Escambia Academy does not permit the use of tobacco in any form by its students during school hours, while participating in a school-sponsored activity, on the school grounds, or in the school buildings at any time.  Any student caught smoking or with any tobacco product tobacco in his/her possession during school hours will be suspended.

3.     Alcohol and Drugs
Possession or use of alcohol or illegal drugs of any kind on campus or at any school function is prohibited.  A student in possession or under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substance will be brought to the office immediately for discipline. Any illegal substance found in the possession of a student will be turned over to the proper authorities.  A minimum 3-day suspension and possible expulsion will be enforced.

NOTE: In a decision concerning search and seizure, the U.S. Supreme Court, has provided the authority for the search of lockers and automobiles on campus when there is reason to suspect the presence and/or storage of any illegal substance or item.

A student arriving at a school function under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substance (as determined by two or more chaperones) shall be detained by the chaperons and not allowed to enter the function.  The student’s parents (emergency contact person if parents cannot be reached) will be notified and asked to pick up the student immediately.  No person under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substance will be allowed to enter any school function or be allowed on the school campus at any time. EA adheres to a “zero tolerance” policy on alcohol and illegal substances. The definition of an “illegal substance” under this rule includes any prescription medication taken without proper authorization by a physician and/or without the proper parental documentation to school authorities.

4.     Cheating
Cheating in any form is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.  If caught cheating, a student will receive an office referral as documentation and a “zero” on the work. 

5.     Stealing
Stealing is a crime, which is punishable by law.  If a student is caught stealing on school grounds, he/she will be automatically suspended or expelled.

6.     Property Damage
The walls in the buildings, furniture in the classrooms, library, gym, etc.—in fact, the buildings and whatever fixtures they contain, are provided at a great expense and sacrifice by the students’ parents and the patrons of Escambia Academy.   Every student is to refrain from defacing or destroying school property.  They should also encourage friends and fellow students to care for school property.  In the event of willful property damage or destruction by any student, the parent/guardian will be required to pay for repair or replacement of the property damaged or destroyed and the responsible student will also receive disciplinary action.

NOTE: Beginning with the fall term of the 2002-2003 school year, all textbooks, including consumables, were issued by the school. These books will be the property of Escambia Academy and damage to textbooks books (non-consumables) beyond normal wear and tear will result in damage fees charged to the account of the financially responsible person.  Books are to be treated with the same respect and care as other school property. Lost books will be charged at the rate for a new book.

7.     Skipping
Any student who reports to school and is absent from class or any school activity without permission from the office or the faculty member whose class is being missed will be punished. Students must have a note signed by the responsible teacher or the Headmaster in order to miss class.  Any student who is absent from school without his parents’ permission is skipping school and will get an unexcused absence along with disciplinary action. A second offense will require an automatic suspension.

8.     Tardiness (Lateness to School)
Chronic or excessive lateness is detrimental to the development of good habits, passing academics, and interferes with the educational process of the individual and others.  Excessive tardiness will result in appropriate disciplinary action for high school and elementary students.  Students are expected to be on time.  A student will be classified tardy if he/she reports to homeroom after 7:45 A.M.  Students are to be in homeroom for attendance and lunch count at 7:45 A.M.   All tardy students will report to the office to obtain his/her admit slip. 

A permit to enter class must be issued by the office for all middle and high school tardies. Students with unexcused tardies must sign the unexcused tardy sheet in addition to the regular sign in sheet.   Two tardies within a week will result in one hour of supervised work-detention after school. Three unexcused tardies within a week will result in the loss of the offending student’s privilege to drive a car onto campus the following day.  In cases where the tardy student is not responsible for the tardiness, (i.e. carpools with another driving student), the headmaster has the discretion to waive the additional penalties beyond the sign in procedure in the office and with the homeroom or classroom teacher, but the headmaster reserves the right to contact this student’s parents to make them aware of the situation.

9.      Fighting 
Fighting on the campus will not be tolerated.  Any student causing a fight will be strenuously punished.  A second offense will result in an automatic suspension for grades 7-12.

10.     Electronic Devices 
Electronic devices such as beepers, telephones, radios, games or any other device that would be a distraction to learning are not allowed at school.  Laser pointers are not permitted on campus at any time.

11.     Weapons
Students are not permitted to possess weapons or objects that may be construed to be weapons.  If a student is found to be in possession of weapons or objects on campus or at a school function, he/she will be subject to severe disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from school.

12.     Sexual Harassment
Escambia Academy prohibits sexual harassment in any form.  Sexual harassment will not be tolerated from students, employees or non-employees, including volunteers and suppliers who have contact with employees and students at school or school sponsored events.

Any student who believes that he or she is a victim of sexual harassment shall promptly report the incident to his or her teacher, coach, headmaster, or assistant headmaster.  Such complaints may be filed without fear of retaliation by any employee, peer, or alleged harasser.  Any employee who becomes aware of an allegation of sexual harassment of a student shall immediately report that allegation to the school administration.

Complaints and cases of sexual harassment will be investigated and handled promptly.  Any student found guilty of sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action according to the findings of the investigation.

Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with a student’s school performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment at school or a school sponsored event.

Behavior considered to be sexual harassment includes but are not limited to the following:

1.     Verbal Harassment-spreading sexual gossip; unwanted sexual comments whether intended seriously or as “a joke,” offensive posters, cards, letters, cartoons, graffiti, drawings, or gestures; verbal pressure for sexual activity.

2.    Physical Harassment-unnecessary or offensive touching of a sexual nature; impeding or blocking movement.

Disciplinary action for sexual harassment is at the discretion of the administration according to the severity of the offense and whether it is a first or subsequent offense.  Disciplinary action may include any or all of the following:

I.    Office referral
II.    Parental Conference
III.    Mandatory Counseling
IV.    Written or Verbal Apology
V.    Work Detail
VI.    Lunch and/or Break Detention
VII.    In School Suspension
VIII.    Out of School Suspension
IX.    Probation
X.    Expulsion
XI.    Criminal Charges Filed


1.      Card playing of any type is not permitted on campus.

2.      Sportsmanship Policy

All students and their families are expected to show good sportsmanship at all competitions, both athletics and academic. This applies to both on-campus and off-campus competition.
At no time shall a student, parent or fan approach an official, opposing player or coach. Any contact with such persons shall come through the EA coach, EA athletic director or EA Headmaster.  Additionally, EA fans are expected to be beyond reproach in comments from the stands directed towards officials or opposing coaches and teams. Any fan exhibiting poor sportsmanship that may reflect negatively on EA may be instructed by the Athletic Director, Headmaster, Coach or any Board Member to cease the behavior or be excused from the event. Repeated negative conduct will result in a fine or a ban from future attendance at sporting events.

It is important to be aware that the AISA strictly enforces the “Good Sportsmanship” policy at all events.  Any EA fan identified to be violating AISA policy or sportsmanship rules will be held responsible for any fines imposed upon the school as a result of their behavior. Fans should also be aware that AISA has the ability to sanction our school and disallow any post-season play for teams as a result of unruly fan behavior. Please do not allow your behavior to deny EA’s teams from a play-off!

Escambia Academy is dedicated to academic and athletic excellence, to the personal growth and well being of its students.  This mission requires a school environment that is safe and drug free in order to maximize the full potential of its students.  Escambia Academy is demonstrating its leadership and commitment to the community by instituting a drug-testing program for students, faculty, staff and board members.  It is based on principles and a structure that assists youth, rather than punishing students on the first offense.  It is intended to empower parents with valuable information for active participation in their child’s health, education and safety.

A.    Scope of the drug testing policy

Student Drug Testing

The program advocates universal drug testing of all students in grades 8-12.  The testing schedule would be established as follows:

INITIAL TESTING:  100% of students in grades 8-12 will be tested at program inception and the beginning of each school year.  Initial testing will be conducted over the course of 3 weeks.  Any new students enrolling will be required to be tested by our agent prior to admission.

RANDOM:  Students will then be randomly tested throughout the school year to achieve    a goal of 50% of students in grades 8-12.   

FOLLOW-UP TESTING:  Any student testing positive on the initial test will be tested periodically and any student that is suspected of drug use will be tested.

REFUSAL TO TEST:  The refusal to take the test will result in mandatory dismissal from school, termination of employment, or removal from the board.

Employee/Board Member Drug Testing

The program advocates universal drug testing of all employees and board members.  The drug testing of employees/board members is part of the overall commitment to create and maintain a drug free school.  All employees and board members will be tested at the beginning of the school year and randomly selected throughout the school year to achieve a goal of 50%.

B.    Testing Method

Instant testing has been selected as the current method of testing.  Escambia Academy reserves the right to change the method of testing in the future.  An outside independent testing agent will perform the collection and analysis of specimen utilizing an On-site screening device.

This instant testing method is cost effective, simple and reliable.  The instant testing method enables participants to be tested quickly and efficiently, thus returning them to the classroom.  All tests are FDA-approved for reliability and quality.  Each specimen will be analyzed for a minimum of 6 drugs including amphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, opiates, phencyclidine and/or suspected drugs.

Students, employees and board members will be allowed to verify medications they are taking which have been prescribed and may explain test results.  Escambia Academy will consult with a medical review officer for verification of medical issues.  The medical review officer will be chosen by the Escambia Academy Headmaster and Board of Directors.
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C.    Confidentiality and dissemination of results

All specimen collections and results are identified by a coded number.  No names are record on
the collection bag or on the test results.
Test results will be confidentially provided by the independent testing laboratory to the Headmaster/designee.  All test results will remain strictly confidential between the individual testing positive, parent/guardian, Headmaster/designee and the confidential counseling program.
No tests results will be disclosed to any person or agency not identified above (#2) without signed written consent for the purposes of seeking professional evaluation and possible treatment.
All drug testing files will be destroyed upon graduation, termination of employment or end of board service.

D.      Consequences of positive results

1.    School personnel will not initiate criminal charges or other legal action against the student or the employee based solely on a positive drug test.   
2.    The Headmaster/designee will refer the individual who tests positive and parents/guardians, if applicable, for a substance abuse evaluation through a licensed counselor or community agency acceptable to Escambia Academy.  The counselor or agency will provide recommendations to the family or individual on any type of additional services that are required for successful completion of the program.  The students and parent/guardians, faculty member, employee and/or board member must seek this evaluation and follow all recommendations.  All costs associated with counseling, treatment and periodic testing will be the responsibility of the parents/guardian and/or individual.  A student, employee or board member who tested positive one time and is in a counseling program approved by Escambia Academy may continue all school activities unless directed otherwise by the parent/guardian, headmaster, board of directors, or substance abuse counselor.
3.    Any individual refusing to follow the conditions of this policy will be dismissed from enrollment, terminated from employment or removed from the board of directors at Escambia Academy.
4.    Any individual who test positive more than one time at Escambia Academy will be permanently dismissed from enrollment, terminated from employment or removed from the board of directors.

A counselor or community agency may provide assessments and referrals for further assistance and treatment to any student, employee or board member who tests positive.  Referrals will be made with consideration for the economic resources of the family.  Parents, employees or board members may choose to seek independent resources to provide an assessment of their or their child’s history and current involvement in alcohol or other drug use.  Escambia Academy must approve the program and progress reports must be submitted to the school on a regular basis in order to determine that the student is making progress in an assistance program.

Results of drug tests, other than one pre-approved by Escambia Academy, will not be considered when administering this policy.

E.      Self Referral

Any student, employee or board member who, before being notified that he or she is to be tested, by his or her own free will admits to the Escambia Academy Headmaster that he or she has engaged in drug use and will be required to attend an assessment interview and abide by the suggestions of the counselor or agency.  This will not count as a first time failure under this policy.

A. Driving

Driving to school is to be considered a privilege, which can be rescinded when abused.  No student is allowed to drive a car on the school campus unless he/she has obtained a valid driver’s license.  Cars are to be parked in an orderly manner as prescribed and in the appropriate areas.  Once a student drives a car onto campus, the student is not to move the vehicle again until the end of school.   Athletes going to the field house may drive their car to the field house at the end of 6th period as long as it is done in a safe manner.

B. Parking

Cars are to be parked orderly in the prescribed manner and in the appropriate areas. The appropriate areas are as follows: 1) At the south side of the high school building 2)  At the field house  3) On the north side or behind the middle school  4) In front of basketball gym.

Each year seniors are granted certain privileges in an effort to prepare them for future decision-making, and in recognition of their maturity, leadership, and service to the school. These privileges will be rescinded individually and collectively if abused.  1) Two off-campus lunches – one per semester  2)  College days

A. General

No student will be promoted with two or more failures per year. If a student fails two grades in a period of four years, that student must withdraw from the school.  Any student failing twice will be reviewed for possible withdrawal.

B. Elementary

If there is a failure in any subject an elementary student will not be promoted without a performance review by the teacher and Headmaster.

C. Grades 6, 7, and 8
A student in grade 6, 7 or 8 will not be promoted with two or more failures per year.

The following guidelines will apply to 7th and 8th grade students:
1.  Fail English or Math—must go to Summer School for the course failed.
2.  Fail English or Math plus one—Must go to Summer School for courses failed.
3.  Fail Math or English plus two—Must repeat the grade.
4.  Fail two or more that cannot be made up in summer school—must repeat the grade.

D. High School
A High School student (grades 9-12) must carry a load of six units each year.  Failures must be made up in a summer school program or through an approved correspondence program. NOTE: Compliance with above standards does not guarantee eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities.  See
“Academic Requirements” under “AISA Athletic Eligibility Rules” in section XXXII.

A.    General
Issuance of a high school diploma from an accredited ASIA school recognizes a student’s successful completion of an approved secondary educational program of required and elective courses designed to meet their needs. Upon successful completion of the prescribed units of course credits as outlined in Graduation Requirements, a student is awarded a diploma of graduation.  All graduation fees, tuition, and other charges must be paid prior to the graduation exercises.  If a student is deficient in ½ unit and will complete the deficient credit in Summer School, he or she will be allowed to participate in graduation activities.  Summer School tuition and graduation fees must be paid in advance of graduation exercises in order to participate in graduation activities.  Upon satisfactory completion of all required work in an accredited school, the student will be awarded a diploma.

B.    Diplomas Offered by EA

Escambia Academy offers three types of diplomas as outlined below:

1.      Alabama High School Diploma (Standard Diploma)
If a student follows the credit requirements and takes a minimum class load for graduation, a student will receive a standard diploma.

2.      Advanced Academic Endorsement Diploma
If a student follows the credit requirements and takes the advanced curriculum, the student will receive an Advanced Academic Endorsement Diploma.

3.      AISA Advanced Honors Diploma – Any student seeking this diploma must petition the Headmaster before the beginning of the 9th grade in order to earn this diploma.   


C.     Standards
Each student who graduates from an AISA accredited school will at least meet State Department of Education course requirements for an officially sanctioned state diploma (State Diploma or State Advanced Diploma). AISA diplomas are awarded upon completion of either the College Preparatory Curriculum or the General Curriculum. The following units must be earned for graduation:

1.      Alabama High School Diploma (Standard Diploma)

English                              4       units
Math                                  4    units *
Science                              4    units **
Social Studies                    4    units ***
Physical Education            1    unit
Health                                ½    unit
Fine Arts                            ½    unit
Computer Applications     ½    unit
Electives                          5 ½    units

Total            24     units

* Four credits to include Algebra I and Geometry
** Four credits to include Biology and Physical Science
*** Physical Education must include “Lifetime Sports.”


2.  Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement

English            4    units
Math            4    units *
Science            4    units **
Social Studies        4    units
Physical Education    1    unit ***
Health            ½     unit
Fine Arts        ½    unit
Computer Applications    ½     unit
Foreign Language    2     units
Electives        3 ½    units

Total            24    units

* Math must include advanced level of Algebra II with Trigonometry.
** Science must include Biology and a physical science.
*** Physical Education must include “Lifetime Sports.”


3.  AISA Advanced Honors Diploma (on an individual basis – requires approval of Headmaster prior to
entering 9th grade)

English            4    units
Math            4    units*
Science            4    units**
Social Studies        4    units
Physical Education    1     unit
Health            ½    unit
Foreign Language    2    units
Fine Arts        ½    unit
Computer Science    ½    unit
Research and Writing    ½    unit
Community        ½    unit
Electives        3 ½     units

Total            25    units

* Math must include advanced level of Algebra II with Trigonometry.
** Science must include Biology and a physical science.
*** Physical Education must include “Lifetime Sports.”

D. Course Sequence
Students must maintain a minimum grade of 75 in advanced math and/or science courses in order to take the next level math and/or science course. Conditional acceptance in the next level may be granted after conference with parent, student, teacher, and Headmaster.

The Valedictorian and Salutatorian of Escambia Academy shall be the students having the highest academic ranking among those who have attended E.A. their entire junior and senior years. This shall be determined at the end of the first semester of the senior year.  The Valedictorian and the Salutatorian must be recipients of an Advanced Endorsement Diploma. In order to qualify for Valedictorian or Salutatorian a student must have taken the most advanced courses available in each subject. Class ranking is used for determining Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and in scholarship consideration.

The top three students of a graduating class will be determined as those college-prep students who completed their 11th and 12th grades at Escambia Academy and have the highest numeric averages (for grades 9 through 12) in the core courses and foreign language. The more advanced courses will be weighed with preference given to the higher-level courses. Transfer students who completed grades 11 and 12 at EA are eligible for consideration but only grades earned at Escambia Academy will be averaged for determining rank. Only students receiving the Advanced Endorsement Diploma will be ranked.

Students are expected to attend all classes.  When absence is due to illness or a death in the family, students may be excused.  State Law reads, “Excused absences are as follows:  illness, death in the immediate family, inclement weather which would be dangerous to the life and health of the child as determined by the principal, legal quarantine, emergency conditions as determined by the principal, and prior permission of the principal and consent of the parent or legal guardian.”  For non-emergency absences (as indicated by the State Law), Escambia Academy students may simply bring a written excuse from their parents two days prior to their being absent for any non-emergency reasons, which must be approved by the Headmaster.  On the day of return to school following an emergency absence, the student must bring a written explanation, signed by his parents or legal guardian.  By State Law, if a student returns to school after an absence without presenting a written excuse from his/her parents explaining the reason for the absence, the absence will be ruled unexcused. A student who has more than 20 absences may not receive credit for the year.  Special circumstances involving extended illness or hospital confinement will be considered by the Headmaster and Board of Directors. Students on school-authorized trips are considered to be in attendance.  Work must be completed prior to departure, if possible.

For a non-emergency absence to constitute an excused absence, parents must inform the Headmaster in writing prior to the absence.  The student will then inform the teachers concerning that absence. It is the responsibility of the parents and students to work out a feasible policy for make-up work prior to an excused personal absence.

Students should consult each teacher concerning make-up work immediately following return to school following an illness or other emergency absence.  The time allowed for a student to complete make-up work will be a maximum of 3 days (except in the case of an extended illness).  Students will not receive credit for any work missed due to an unexcused absence.  If a student does not bring a note from home explaining his absence on the following day, he/she will be given a 3 day grace period with a temporary, unexcused admit slip.  If the note is brought and the reason is sufficient, the unexcused absence will be changed to excused.  If a note is not brought on the second day, the unexcused absence will stand regardless of the reason.  A telephone call from the parents does not take the place of a written excuse.  A note must be on file at the office.

A.     General
At the end of each nine week period and at the end of each semester, the following honor rolls will be published for grades four and above:  A-B Honor Roll, A Honor Roll, and Headmaster’s List.  In order to qualify for Honor Roll, a student may not have a below average citizenship grade in any class.

B.     Requirements

1.  All A:  Any student who has at least a 90 average in every class or subject or all A’s on his/her report card.
2.  A-B:  Any student who has at least one A and no grade below an 80 in any class or subject or no grade below a B on his/her report card.

Teachers are required to notify parents of those students who have academic problems.  This may be accomplished by sending home a major test to be signed by the parents and returned to the teacher.  Teachers may call and notify parents if a problem is evident.

A Progress Report will be sent after 4 ½ weeks of each nine-week period if a student is not performing with at least a 71 average.  Report Cards will be issued within a week following the end of the nine-week grading period.  Dates are announced on the school calendar.  If the grading period falls on a holiday, the report card will be sent out within a week after the return to classes.

Homework is an integral part of the school program.  Each teacher is at liberty to give homework to aid the students in their studies.  Therefore, each student is required to complete his/her homework assignments on time. 

Homework is given for several reasons:

A.    For reinforcement:  Most students require adequate review to master material essential to their educational process. 
B.    For practice:  Following classroom explanation, illustration, and review of new work, homework is given so that the material will be mastered.
C.    For remedial work:  As instruction progresses, various weak points in a student’s grasp of a subject become evident.  Homework following instruction is given to overcome such difficulties.
D.    For special projects:  Book reports, compositions, special research assignments, and projects are some of the activities that are frequently assigned as homework.

Parents need to give full cooperation in seeing that the assignments are completed.  Failure to complete homework will affect the student’s daily grade, which is a portion of the final grade for the course.

Any student who leaves the school campus during school hours must check out in the main office.  The school strongly encourages parents to schedule routine medical and dental appointments outside of school hours.  Teachers should be notified of non-emergency medical and dental appointments as soon as possible. Parents must send written notification of the appointment to the office.  If not, the absence will be unexcused.  Any student who leaves school during the day for any reason is responsible for all work missed.  Tests and work missed during this time must be made up at the discretion of the teacher.  Failure on the part of the student to see the teacher at the teacher’s convenience upon the student’s return to school concerning work missed may result in a zero.  All prearranged absences must have work completed before departure, if possible.

No one is allowed to visit others on campus without first being cleared by the office.  Social visitation is not allowed during the school day.  An unauthorized visitor will be asked to leave the school campus.

Beginning with the 2002-2003 school year, all textbooks were issued by the school to students, including consumables. Parents will no longer be responsible for locating and purchasing books. Students will be responsible for damage to or loss of books and damage fees may be assessed as appropriate. Lost books will be charged the cost of a new book. Each family will be assessed an annual Book Rental Fee to cover the cost of providing textbooks and consumables. In the case of families with more than two students attending EA, the oldest two students will be charged the Book Rental Fee, and the other children will only be charged for their consumables.

A.     Lockers
The school will provide a locker for all students in grades 6-12.   Any items on the lockers, floor or other inappropriate place will be collected.  The school reserves the right to search student’s lockers if necessary to maintain school operations and to protect other students’ safety.

B.     Parties
End of the Year parties must be held at school, at a student’s home, or at a park.  Parties must have prior approval from the Headmaster.  A certified lifeguard must be at all pool parties.

C.     Field Trips

Field trips are planned in conjunction with classroom activities and have a specific objective. The Headmaster must approve all field trips. Permission slips must be completed for each child for each trip. Expenses associated with field trips whether admissions, transportation, or meals, will be the responsibility of the student except in those cases where the field trip is already covered by a class fee. All efforts will be made to keep expenses to a reasonable level.

Students are required to attend all approved field trips. Field trips are considered regular school days, therefore attendance rules (see XXIV) will apply to any absence. In addition, any student missing a field trip is required to make-up any work assigned in relation to the field trip. It will be the responsibility of any student missing the field trip to complete any test, quiz, homework, etc. that is assigned in relation to the field trip. In cases of an excused absence, the instructor will allow the student to take any test, quiz, or homework assignment associated with the field trip at a later date, with the instructor having full latitude on the timing of the assignment. If a grade is given a student for the actual attendance of the field trip, the instructor may or may not give an additional assignment related to the content of the field trip in the case of an excused absence. In the case of an unexcused absence, the student will receive a grade of zero for this event.

A.    Bona Fide Student

1.    To qualify as a bona fide student of an ASIA member school, an individual must be enrolled and in attendance for two full school days.  To maintain the status, an individual must remain enrolled, sustain regular attendance, and be assigned a typical class schedule, which will allow normal progression toward graduation.  In order to compete the day before the official opening day of school, that student must meet the bona fide student criteria of that school on opening day.

2.    Any member school in interscholastic competition, which allows the participation of an athlete prior to the official opening day who does not qualify as a bona fide student on the official opening day of school, will forfeit to their opponents any and all games played by the member school while that student was a participant.  That school will also be subject to further disciplinary action by the ASIA.

B.  Age Restrictions

1.    A student is eligible for Termite competition the entire year if his/her 11th birthday falls on or after the first of September and he/she is enrolled in the 4th grade or below.

2.    A student is eligible for Pee Wee competition the entire year if his/her 13th birthday falls on or after the first of September and he/she is enrolled in the 6th grade or below.    

3.    A student is eligible for Junior High competition the entire year if his/her 16th birthday falls on or after the first of September and he/she is enrolled in the 9th grade or below.

4.    Student athletes who will be 19 years of age prior to the first of September will be ineligible for ASIA interscholastic athletics.

C.   Academic Requirements

All AISA student-athletes must meet the following grade requirements:

1.   Seventh grade students must have passed the sixth grade and have been promoted to the seventh grade.

2.   Eighth grade students must have passed the seventh grade and have been promoted to the eighth grade.

3.   Ninth grade students must have passed the eighth grade and have been promoted to the ninth grade.

4. Seventh and eighth grade students must pass five subjects the first semester in order to be eligible for the second semester.   

5.   Tenth through twelfth grade students must have passed six new Carnegie units in the previous academic year in order to be eligible for the first semester. NOTE: A minimum of four core curriculum credits must be included in this requirement.  Ninth through twelfth grade students may earn and/or retain second semester eligibility by passing 2.5 new Carnegie units during the first semester of the current year. A minimum of one core curricular credit must be included in this requirement.
Core curricular subjects include: English, history, math and science.  A student-athlete repeating any grade will be ineligible regardless of the reason for repeating.

All students and their families are expected to show good sportsmanship at all competitions, both athletic and academic, on campus and at other school or facilities.
Individuals displaying poor sportsmanship face the possibility of being banned from Escambia Academy athletic events, both home and away.

A.  Athletic Programs

VARSITY ATHLETICS
Boys Sports                            Girls Sports

Football                            Basketball
Basketball                            Softball
Baseball                            Track
Track                            Cross Country
Golf                            Golf
Cross Country                        Volleyball
Weightlifting                            Weightlifting

VARSITY SPIRIT ORGANIZATIONS

Cheerleaders
Pep Club

JR. HIGH SPORTS & SPIRIT ORGANIZATIONS

Boys Football
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Volleyball
Track
Cheerleaders
J.V. Baseball
J.V. Softball
Golf

PEE WEE PROGRAMS            TINY MITE PRPOGRAMS
(Grades 5-6)                        (Grades 3-4)

Boys Football                    Boys Football
Cheerleaders                        Cheerleaders
Basketball*                                                             Basketball*

* 1st -6th  graders may participate

All Fund Raising Projects that are on the behalf of Escambia Academy, Classes of Escambia Academy, Students of Escambia Academy or groups or organizations related to Escambia Academy must be approved in writing by the headmaster to avoid disciplinary actions to the students involved, benefiting from or associated with the fund-raiser.