Contents
1. Morning Procedure
2. Pick-up and Drop-off locations
3. Early Dismissal
4. Book policy
5. Electronic equipment and Cell phone policy
6. Fire and severe weather drills
7. Lost and Found
8. Lunchtime procedure
9. School Closing Announcement policy
10. Deliveries to students
11. Conduct
12. Bus Procedure
13. Dress Code
14. Grading and Report Cards
15. Attendance Policy
16. Academic policy
17. Health Policy
18. Sports Policies
19. Discipline Policy/Demerits
20. Tuition Policy
GENERAL INFORMATION
A. Morning Arrival
Students that arrive earlier than 7:45 AM should report to Precare in the Gym. Students should not wait in the school office or
hallways. Students may be dropped off as early as 7:15 AM; however, this extended-care option will be invoiced at $5.00 per
morning, per student, when a student arrives prior to 7:45 AM. There will be no charge if the student arrives at school after 7:
45 AM. Students using the Precare program will be supervised in the gymnasium by a staff member. (With advance notice,
students may be dropped off as early as 6:30 AM for an additional cost.)
At 7:50 AM, students will be dismissed to their classrooms for the start of the day at 8:00 AM. Students arriving to the
classroom after 8:00 AM will be considered tardy and must report to the school office before going to class.
B. Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Traffic Flow
We need your help and cooperation for the SAFE pick-up and drop-off of our student body.
Important reminders:
1. NEVER ENTER ONTO NOR LEAVE FROM HWY 278
2. WE ASK THAT YOU NOT PARK on 9th Ave in front of CCS in the fire lane or on the other side of the street; The
neighbors have asked that we not park in front of their property.
3. WE ASK THAT YOU NOT PARK on 8th Ave in front of and beside Eastside Baptist Church on neighbor's property.
Location
All students K-4 through 12th Grade will be dropped off and picked up at the west entrance to CCS (gym area) located
between the church and school building under the awning. Cars will come from 4th Street SE and turn on 8th Ave SE heading
towards Hwy 278. (Please follow the one-way signs in front of the church and drive around between the buildings.) Children
should exit the car on the left when they are completely under the awning. To exit, continue to drive around the church and
leave via 8th Ave SE. Never enter or leave from Hwy 278 (3rd Street).
Parking
For safety reasons, parents must never enter or leave the school from Hwy 278. Short term parking is available in the circle
on the 9th Ave SE side of the school. Long term parking is available outside the gymnasium and along 9th Avenue as
marked. Parents should not exit their cars when in drop-off or pick-up lines. If your child is not where they should be for pick-
up, you may be asked to circle around to keep traffic flowing. Student drivers will park on the far end of the faculty parking
lot located on 8th Ave, SE.
C. Dismissal/Early Dismissal
All students must be signed out through the office if they are being dismissed early. You may call the office or send a note to
your child’s teacher if you plan to pick your child up early. Please try to call by 1:30 pm so we can see that your child receives
the message to avoid last-minute confusion. Please do not go directly to your child’s classroom to get your child.
If someone other than a parent is authorized to pick up your child, a parent MUST communicate this in writing. The note
needs to include the person’s name along with make and color of the car they will be driving. ID’s will be checked for persons
unknown to school personnel.
All carpool students must be picked up at 3:00 PM. Students picked up after 3:15 P.M. will be sent to Aftercare in the Gym
and charged the set rate for after-school care. Please call the office ahead of time if your child will be picked up after 3:15 P.
M. so that arrangements can be made.
D. Textbooks
Classroom textbooks will be provided by CCS and may be sent home at the discretion of the teacher. Each student is required
to have covers for (his/her) books. These books must not be defaced and, if damaged or lost, charges will be assessed
accordingly.
E. Electronic Equipment/Cell Phones
Radios, CD players, iPods, etc., may not be brought to school unless permission has been obtained from a teacher for use in
the classroom. Electronic toys (Gameboys for example) should also be kept at home unless permission has been granted.
Please know that CCS cannot be responsible for expensive toys or gadgets. All student phone calls, incoming or outgoing,
should be made through the office. However, we realize that some parents may supply an older child with a cell phone for
emergency contact. In this case, students should keep their phones in their backpacks or locked in their lockers. Cell phones
should be turned off at all times in the school building, as they may not be used during the school day for calling or text
messaging. If a student is observed using a cell phone, it will be taken up and kept in the school office until a parent picks it
up.
G. Fire, Severe Weather, and Lockdown Drills
Information about fire and severe weather drill procedures will be posted in each classroom and explained to the students.
Evacuation routes will also be posted. Drills will be rehearsed periodically without prior notice.
I. Lost and Found
Clothing, books, and personal articles are placed in a location near the school office. Students and their parents or guardians
are asked to check and reclaim articles. The school assumes no responsibility for articles left lying about the building or
schoolyard. Articles that are not reclaimed after a reasonable time shall be donated to charity.
Please label all of your child’s belongings, including uniforms, lunch boxes, coats, sweatshirts, and backpacks.
J. Lunchtime
Students must bring their own lunches each day. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted in the lunchroom. Soft drinks
(canned or bottled) are not permitted. Please do not plan to bring lunch to school for your child during the school day, as this
interrupts the office, teacher, student and the classroom routine. However, if, on occasion, you need to bring lunch to your
child, it must be here by 11:00am. You may leave it with the office where the child may stop by before lunchtime and pick it
up. Parents are welcome to eat lunch at school with their child. Please meet your child in the lunchroom. Students in
Kindergarten through 4th grade should also bring a snack to eat at midmorning consisting of a food item and drink. Snacks
are optional for 5th through 12th grade.
K. School Closing Announcements
School closing announcements will be made over radio station WKUL 92.1 FM. We will follow the City of Cullman’s
emergency plan of action.
L. Deliveries
Deliveries of flowers, gifts, balloons, etc., for students should be made to the school office rather than to the classroom. These
will be delivered to the student before the close of the day.
M. Conduct
At all times while on school property and at school-sponsored events, students will conduct themselves in a manner honoring
to themselves, their School and our Lord. Certain behaviors are not permitted which include any romantic physical contact
between students. Chewing gum will not be consumed during school hours. The balcony, stage and all upstairs rooms located
inside the gym are prohibited at all times unless given permission by a faculty member. During after-school events, the
entrances to downstairs facilities will be locked. Admittance to these areas is only given to students accompanied by a faculty
or staff member.
N. Bus Procedures
While riding the bus, students must stay in their seats (no standing, turning around in the seat, or switching seats). Arms,
heads, objects, etc…must not be placed outside the window. If the driver turns on the overhead lights, there should be no
talking. No food or drinks are allowed on the bus without permission.
O. Preschool Toys
No toys are to be brought to school from home. However, children may bring one stuffed animal or doll for nap time. Toys
are sent home weekly to be washed. On occasion toys will be allowed; you will receive a note when toys are permitted.
DRESS CODE
The following uniform standards have been established for CCS students. Uniforms are purchased by parents. Homeroom
teachers are given the primary responsibility for recognizing uniform policy violations. However, other staff members are at
liberty to speak to a student if the student is out of uniform at any time during the day. The uniform policy applies at all
times on school property and on all field trips unless otherwise specified by the teacher. We believe it is the parents’
responsibility to ensure the proper modest attire of their children. Home school Co-op and EP students will also be asked to
dress accordingly on campus.
A. Girl’s Uniform
Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st through 4th Grade Girls
Girls may wear pants or just above knee-length shorts in solid khaki or navy blue. Girls may also wear jumpers, skirts, or
skorts in solid navy blue, khaki or "Classic Navy" plaid. Our school's Classic Navy plaid is only purchased from Land's
End. Uniform skirt, short, and skort lengths should be no shorter than approximately 2-3” above the top of the knee;
however, a longer length is acceptable. Shirts will be white, navy, gold, or light blue. Short-sleeve polo shirts without designer
logos or long-sleeved button-down shirts. Polo shirts in navy and white with the CCS logo will be available. Optional belts
should match the uniform. Girl’s shoes should be closed-toed. They should have shoelaces, or Velcro and have heels less
than 2 inches. Socks and tights should be solid white or navy. “Leggings” are not permitted. Black, navy blue, or brown
shoes are acceptable, as well as sneakers. Hats and scarves are not to be worn inside the building. If warmth is desired,
either CCS sweatshirts or CCS fleece, solid navy sweaters (V-neck cardigan or V-neck pullover) may be worn in the
classroom. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class. A solid navy polar fleece embroidered
with the CCS crest may be worn in place of the sweaters. During the winter months, a plain white turtleneck may be worn
underneath. Hair should be neat and conservative. No tattoos (permanent or temporary) or body piercing, other than ears,
should be visible.
5th through 12th Grade Girls
Girls may wear pants or just above knee-length shorts in solid khaki or navy blue. Girls may also wear jumpers, skirts, or
skorts in solid navy blue, khaki or "Classic Navy" plaid. Our school's Classic Navy plaid is only purchased from Land's
End. Uniform skirt, short, and skort lengths should be no shorter than approximately 2-3” above the top of the knee;
however, a longer length is acceptable. Shirts will be white, navy, gold or light blue. Short-sleeve polo shirts without designer
logos or long-sleeved button-down shirts. Polo shirts in navy and white with the CCS logo will be available. Optional belts
should match the uniform. Girl’s shoes should have heels less than 2 inches. Socks and tights should be solid white or navy.
“Leggings” are not permitted. Black, navy blue, or brown shoes are acceptable, as well as sneakers. Hats and scarves are
not to be worn inside the building. If warmth is desired, either CCS sweatshirts or CCS fleece, solid navy sweaters (V-neck
cardigan or V-neck pullover) may be worn in the classroom. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn
to class. A solid navy polar fleece embroidered with the CCS crest may be worn in place of the sweaters. During the winter
months, a plain white turtleneck may be worn underneath. Hair should be neat and conservative. No tattoos (permanent or
temporary) or body piercing, other than ears, should be visible.
1. Morning Procedure
2. Pick-up and Drop-off locations
3. Early Dismissal
4. Book policy
5. Electronic equipment and Cell phone policy
6. Fire and severe weather drills
7. Lost and Found
8. Lunchtime procedure
9. School Closing Announcement policy
10. Deliveries to students
11. Conduct
12. Bus Procedure
13. Dress Code
14. Grading and Report Cards
15. Attendance Policy
16. Academic policy
17. Health Policy
18. Sports Policies
19. Discipline Policy/Demerits
20. Tuition Policy
GENERAL INFORMATION
A. Morning Arrival
Students that arrive earlier than 7:45 AM should report to Precare in the Gym. Students should not wait in the school office or
hallways. Students may be dropped off as early as 7:15 AM; however, this extended-care option will be invoiced at $5.00 per
morning, per student, when a student arrives prior to 7:45 AM. There will be no charge if the student arrives at school after 7:
45 AM. Students using the Precare program will be supervised in the gymnasium by a staff member. (With advance notice,
students may be dropped off as early as 6:30 AM for an additional cost.)
At 7:50 AM, students will be dismissed to their classrooms for the start of the day at 8:00 AM. Students arriving to the
classroom after 8:00 AM will be considered tardy and must report to the school office before going to class.
B. Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Traffic Flow
We need your help and cooperation for the SAFE pick-up and drop-off of our student body.
Important reminders:
1. NEVER ENTER ONTO NOR LEAVE FROM HWY 278
2. WE ASK THAT YOU NOT PARK on 9th Ave in front of CCS in the fire lane or on the other side of the street; The
neighbors have asked that we not park in front of their property.
3. WE ASK THAT YOU NOT PARK on 8th Ave in front of and beside Eastside Baptist Church on neighbor's property.
Location
All students K-4 through 12th Grade will be dropped off and picked up at the west entrance to CCS (gym area) located
between the church and school building under the awning. Cars will come from 4th Street SE and turn on 8th Ave SE heading
towards Hwy 278. (Please follow the one-way signs in front of the church and drive around between the buildings.) Children
should exit the car on the left when they are completely under the awning. To exit, continue to drive around the church and
leave via 8th Ave SE. Never enter or leave from Hwy 278 (3rd Street).
Parking
For safety reasons, parents must never enter or leave the school from Hwy 278. Short term parking is available in the circle
on the 9th Ave SE side of the school. Long term parking is available outside the gymnasium and along 9th Avenue as
marked. Parents should not exit their cars when in drop-off or pick-up lines. If your child is not where they should be for pick-
up, you may be asked to circle around to keep traffic flowing. Student drivers will park on the far end of the faculty parking
lot located on 8th Ave, SE.
C. Dismissal/Early Dismissal
All students must be signed out through the office if they are being dismissed early. You may call the office or send a note to
your child’s teacher if you plan to pick your child up early. Please try to call by 1:30 pm so we can see that your child receives
the message to avoid last-minute confusion. Please do not go directly to your child’s classroom to get your child.
If someone other than a parent is authorized to pick up your child, a parent MUST communicate this in writing. The note
needs to include the person’s name along with make and color of the car they will be driving. ID’s will be checked for persons
unknown to school personnel.
All carpool students must be picked up at 3:00 PM. Students picked up after 3:15 P.M. will be sent to Aftercare in the Gym
and charged the set rate for after-school care. Please call the office ahead of time if your child will be picked up after 3:15 P.
M. so that arrangements can be made.
D. Textbooks
Classroom textbooks will be provided by CCS and may be sent home at the discretion of the teacher. Each student is required
to have covers for (his/her) books. These books must not be defaced and, if damaged or lost, charges will be assessed
accordingly.
E. Electronic Equipment/Cell Phones
Radios, CD players, iPods, etc., may not be brought to school unless permission has been obtained from a teacher for use in
the classroom. Electronic toys (Gameboys for example) should also be kept at home unless permission has been granted.
Please know that CCS cannot be responsible for expensive toys or gadgets. All student phone calls, incoming or outgoing,
should be made through the office. However, we realize that some parents may supply an older child with a cell phone for
emergency contact. In this case, students should keep their phones in their backpacks or locked in their lockers. Cell phones
should be turned off at all times in the school building, as they may not be used during the school day for calling or text
messaging. If a student is observed using a cell phone, it will be taken up and kept in the school office until a parent picks it
up.
G. Fire, Severe Weather, and Lockdown Drills
Information about fire and severe weather drill procedures will be posted in each classroom and explained to the students.
Evacuation routes will also be posted. Drills will be rehearsed periodically without prior notice.
I. Lost and Found
Clothing, books, and personal articles are placed in a location near the school office. Students and their parents or guardians
are asked to check and reclaim articles. The school assumes no responsibility for articles left lying about the building or
schoolyard. Articles that are not reclaimed after a reasonable time shall be donated to charity.
Please label all of your child’s belongings, including uniforms, lunch boxes, coats, sweatshirts, and backpacks.
J. Lunchtime
Students must bring their own lunches each day. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted in the lunchroom. Soft drinks
(canned or bottled) are not permitted. Please do not plan to bring lunch to school for your child during the school day, as this
interrupts the office, teacher, student and the classroom routine. However, if, on occasion, you need to bring lunch to your
child, it must be here by 11:00am. You may leave it with the office where the child may stop by before lunchtime and pick it
up. Parents are welcome to eat lunch at school with their child. Please meet your child in the lunchroom. Students in
Kindergarten through 4th grade should also bring a snack to eat at midmorning consisting of a food item and drink. Snacks
are optional for 5th through 12th grade.
K. School Closing Announcements
School closing announcements will be made over radio station WKUL 92.1 FM. We will follow the City of Cullman’s
emergency plan of action.
L. Deliveries
Deliveries of flowers, gifts, balloons, etc., for students should be made to the school office rather than to the classroom. These
will be delivered to the student before the close of the day.
M. Conduct
At all times while on school property and at school-sponsored events, students will conduct themselves in a manner honoring
to themselves, their School and our Lord. Certain behaviors are not permitted which include any romantic physical contact
between students. Chewing gum will not be consumed during school hours. The balcony, stage and all upstairs rooms located
inside the gym are prohibited at all times unless given permission by a faculty member. During after-school events, the
entrances to downstairs facilities will be locked. Admittance to these areas is only given to students accompanied by a faculty
or staff member.
N. Bus Procedures
While riding the bus, students must stay in their seats (no standing, turning around in the seat, or switching seats). Arms,
heads, objects, etc…must not be placed outside the window. If the driver turns on the overhead lights, there should be no
talking. No food or drinks are allowed on the bus without permission.
O. Preschool Toys
No toys are to be brought to school from home. However, children may bring one stuffed animal or doll for nap time. Toys
are sent home weekly to be washed. On occasion toys will be allowed; you will receive a note when toys are permitted.
DRESS CODE
The following uniform standards have been established for CCS students. Uniforms are purchased by parents. Homeroom
teachers are given the primary responsibility for recognizing uniform policy violations. However, other staff members are at
liberty to speak to a student if the student is out of uniform at any time during the day. The uniform policy applies at all
times on school property and on all field trips unless otherwise specified by the teacher. We believe it is the parents’
responsibility to ensure the proper modest attire of their children. Home school Co-op and EP students will also be asked to
dress accordingly on campus.
A. Girl’s Uniform
Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st through 4th Grade Girls
Girls may wear pants or just above knee-length shorts in solid khaki or navy blue. Girls may also wear jumpers, skirts, or
skorts in solid navy blue, khaki or "Classic Navy" plaid. Our school's Classic Navy plaid is only purchased from Land's
End. Uniform skirt, short, and skort lengths should be no shorter than approximately 2-3” above the top of the knee;
however, a longer length is acceptable. Shirts will be white, navy, gold, or light blue. Short-sleeve polo shirts without designer
logos or long-sleeved button-down shirts. Polo shirts in navy and white with the CCS logo will be available. Optional belts
should match the uniform. Girl’s shoes should be closed-toed. They should have shoelaces, or Velcro and have heels less
than 2 inches. Socks and tights should be solid white or navy. “Leggings” are not permitted. Black, navy blue, or brown
shoes are acceptable, as well as sneakers. Hats and scarves are not to be worn inside the building. If warmth is desired,
either CCS sweatshirts or CCS fleece, solid navy sweaters (V-neck cardigan or V-neck pullover) may be worn in the
classroom. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class. A solid navy polar fleece embroidered
with the CCS crest may be worn in place of the sweaters. During the winter months, a plain white turtleneck may be worn
underneath. Hair should be neat and conservative. No tattoos (permanent or temporary) or body piercing, other than ears,
should be visible.
5th through 12th Grade Girls
Girls may wear pants or just above knee-length shorts in solid khaki or navy blue. Girls may also wear jumpers, skirts, or
skorts in solid navy blue, khaki or "Classic Navy" plaid. Our school's Classic Navy plaid is only purchased from Land's
End. Uniform skirt, short, and skort lengths should be no shorter than approximately 2-3” above the top of the knee;
however, a longer length is acceptable. Shirts will be white, navy, gold or light blue. Short-sleeve polo shirts without designer
logos or long-sleeved button-down shirts. Polo shirts in navy and white with the CCS logo will be available. Optional belts
should match the uniform. Girl’s shoes should have heels less than 2 inches. Socks and tights should be solid white or navy.
“Leggings” are not permitted. Black, navy blue, or brown shoes are acceptable, as well as sneakers. Hats and scarves are
not to be worn inside the building. If warmth is desired, either CCS sweatshirts or CCS fleece, solid navy sweaters (V-neck
cardigan or V-neck pullover) may be worn in the classroom. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn
to class. A solid navy polar fleece embroidered with the CCS crest may be worn in place of the sweaters. During the winter
months, a plain white turtleneck may be worn underneath. Hair should be neat and conservative. No tattoos (permanent or
temporary) or body piercing, other than ears, should be visible.
| CULLMAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 303 9th Ave, SE CULLMAN, ALABAMA 35055 734-0734 |
| Student Handbook |
B. Boy’s Uniform
The basic uniform for CCS boys in all grades consists of solid khaki or navy blue slacks or Bermuda-length shorts with a
white, light blue, gold or navy blue polo shirt. No cargo-style pants will be allowed. Boys may also choose to wear a
long-sleeve button-down oxford in white or light blue. Polo and oxford shirts are available in either long or short sleeves
and should be solid colors without logos. Oxford and polo shirts can be worn with the “CCS” crest and will be available.
Shirts should be tucked in at the waist. Belts should be worn. Hats may not be worn inside the building. Footwear is to
be black or brown shoes or sneakers. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class. Solid
navy sweaters may be either a V-neck cardigan or V-neck pullover. If warmth is desired, either of the two school sweaters
may be worn. A solid navy “CCS” monogrammed polar fleece or sweatshirt may be ordered and worn in place of the
sweaters. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class During the winter months, a plain
white turtleneck may be worn under the sweater. Hair should be neat and not below the collar, over the eyebrows or ears.
Boys should be clean-shaven with no piercing or tattoos (permanent or temporary) visible.
C. Physical Education Uniform
Girls and boys in 5th through 8th grades are required to dress out for physical education. Gym uniforms consist of a
Cullman Christian School Athletics shirt and navy shorts which may be purchased from the School. An order form can be
printed here. Those students on an athletic team that practices during PE class will wear their sport practice uniform. On
days that the team does not practice they will wear the standard PE uniform. During events where swimwear is
appropriate, girls may wear modest one-piece bathing suits and tankinis; bikinis are not permitted.
Sources for School Uniforms:
Cumming’s Sporting Goods
Order forms are available from the school or can be downloaded here.
Land’s End
go to www.landsend.com/school
Use preferred school code # 900127663 to see our school dress code and order desired items.
The school crest (Logo Number: 0848814K can be applied to shirts and fleeces for $8.10 each)
French Toast
Go to www.frenchtoast.com
Use school source code# QS5CXKE to see our school dress code and order desired items.
*Please make sure any uniform items purchased from other retail stores conform to the school dress code. Please consult the
handbook above for details. Please note gold colored polos must be gold and not yellow- for example "pure gold" by
Hanes. Land's End and FrenchToast do not carry gold polos.
D. Special Programs, Casual Days and Extracurricular Activities
When students are participating in special programs, they may be allowed to wear clothing other than the school uniform.
In this event, parents will be notified in writing before the program. All clothing must be modest in length and coverage (no
low-cut, short length, or halter/spaghetti-strap dresses). For field trips, all students will wear the same color shirt or school
uniform- to be announced by the teacher. At times during the year, CCS may sponsor a dress-down day for a celebration,
field trip, or fundraiser. All changes will be made in writing or by email before the event, with appropriate clothing listed.
Students may wear clothing other than school uniforms to extra-curricular activities such as sports events. All clothing
must be modest in length and coverage and must follow the guidelines set forth in this handbook.
E. Consequences (for improper apparel)
The first time a student comes to school out of uniform, the parents will be notified in writing or by e-mail. The second
time, the parents will be contacted and required to bring the appropriate uniform to school. If the problem persists, the
parent/guardian and student will be required to meet with the Headmaster to deal with the problem and formulate a
solution. Determination of uniform policy violations is at the discretion of the CCS faculty. Demerits will be
assigned- see below.
GRADING AND REPORT CARDS
Report cards record each student’s grades and also personal comments about the student’s achievements, effort, and
conduct. To monitor student progress, a report card will be issued every six weeks during the school year. The Christian
school student should strive at all times to do the best work possible.
During the first six weeks, report cards will be given out at parent/teacher conferences. The following six-week periods, the
student will bring the report card home to the parents. If there is a past due balance on a student’s account, the report card
will not be released until the balance is paid in full.
Progress reports will be given out every three weeks to inform parents of grades and conduct on an ongoing basis. Parents
will be required to sign and return the progress reports as soon as possible.
Kindergarten/Conduct marks
O Outstanding 93 - 100
S+ Above Average 86 - 92
S Average 76 - 85
N Needs Improvement 70 - 75
U Unsatisfactory Below 70
Grades 1 - 12
A+ 97 – 100
A 93 – 96
A- 90 – 92
B+ 87 – 89
B 83 – 86
B- 80 – 82
C+ 77 - 79
C 73 - 76
C- 70 - 72
D+ 67 – 69
D 63 – 66
D- 60 – 62
F Below 60
Honor Awards
Annual awards are given out for academic achievement in grades 1 –12 as follows:
High Honor Roll: A in major subject areas
Not less than a B in conduct, effort and other subjects
Honor Roll: A’s and B’s in the major subject areas
A or B in effort and conduct
Not less than a C in other subjects
ATTENDANCE POLICY
A. Absences
Providing a quality education depends on regular class attendance.
Parents are asked to call the school office at 734-0734 before 9:00 AM if their child will not be coming to school on a
particular day. Students who are absent must submit a written excuse signed by a parent/legal guardian on the day of
returning to school. If a written excuse is not received by the third day after an absence, your child’s absence will be
documented as unexcused. The note should indicate the reason for the absence and the date(s) of absence. Please note that
phone calls to the school office notifying a staff member of an absence does not replace the need for written documentation
from the parent/legal guardian.
A doctor’s note will be required for any absence over five consecutive days or for any contagious illness or condition.
Absences, tardies, and early departures will be considered excused or unexcused according to the following standards:
Excused: illness, death in the family, emergency (specify), impassable roads due to inclement weather or accidents,
medical appointments which cannot be scheduled at other times. If absence is excused, make-up work will be allowed.
Make-up work should be completed within 3 days of the student’s return to school or they will receive a zero for the missing
assignments.
Unexcused: any other circumstance not approved by school officials or absence without a written note. Make-up
work will not be allowed.
If a student is going to be absent from school for reasons other than illness (i.e., medical or academic testing, extended
family vacations, etc.), the parents should notify the school in writing as far in advance of the absence as possible.
All students are expected to abide by all Alabama state laws and school regulations regarding school attendance.
Parents/guardians should make every effort to see that a student is present every day that school is in session. Absences
disrupt the continuity of instruction and education cannot be entirely regained, even by extra after-school help. Learning
gained
through interaction with peers and staff in the class cannot be duplicated.
Any student who is absent may not participate in any after-school activities on that day.
If a student has more than fifteen absences in a semester, his/her academic standing may be jeopardized. The parents may
be asked to meet with the Headmaster to discuss the situation and any possible ramifications. In addition, if a child is
absent for at least 20 days during the school year, his/her school records may be subject to review and his/her academic
standing may be
jeopardized in this case, as well. A determination will be made whether dismissal is warranted due to lack of attendance.
Also, the appropriate City truancy officer may be contacted to report excessive absences to comply with Alabama state law.
B. Tardiness
Any student arriving after 8:15 AM must use the front entrance and report to the school office for a late slip before entering
the
classroom. All tardiness (excused or unexcused) must be recorded for state records. Tardiness will be excused if due to
motor
vehicle problems or medical emergencies. Any student arriving after 11:00 AM will be marked absent for the day.
Getting to school on time is an important cooperative effort for the whole family.
Being consistently tardy is a hindrance to academic progress and will not be tolerated.
A conference with the Headmaster, parents/guardians, and the student may be required when a student in grades 4-12
accumulates three unexcused tardies. Demerits will be assigned-see below.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
A. Homework Policy
Homework is assigned to CCS students for review, practice and development of skills presented during class time.
Homework also teaches a child responsibility and allows a family an opportunity to participate in certain learning
experiences. The amount of homework varies, depending on the grade level, and may be given any night, including
Friday. Homework on Wednesday night will be lighter to encourage family church attendance. Homework assignments for
certain middle and high school classes will be posted weekly on the website listed under the respective teachers.
B. Homework Requests
There may be times when a child cannot be in school and parents wish to request homework.
Please observe the following procedures when requesting homework:
If you would like homework on the day of the child’s absence, please request the homework as early as possible.
Homework may be picked up at 2:15 PM. However, on some days, teachers have no free time and homework may not be
available until the next day; we will notify you if this is the case. For prolonged absences such as vacations or trips, please
request the work at least one week in advance. Work missed will have to be made up. Even though homework can be given
and made up, absences may still affect grades. This can happen when a student misses classroom discussions, oral drills,
initial instruction and some activities that can’t be duplicated. Please be aware of this when making traveling plans.
C. Permanent Records
The school maintains a permanent cumulative file on all CCS students. Records of health, grades, standardized test scores,
and disciplinary reports make up most of the content. Parents may view their child’s permanent record at any time by
making an appointment for this purpose. Transfer of records to another school is provided by mail directly to the receiving
school.
D. Standardized Testing
All students in grades K-12 will participate in standardized testing in April. The Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) is used
in each grade to help measure academic progress and to evaluate strengths and weaknesses. Parents will receive copies of
the results, typically during the summer.
E. Promotion
Students in grades one through twelve are promoted to the following grade level on the basis of academic achievement.
Students in kindergarten are also evaluated by emotional and social growth for readiness for first grade. If there does not
appear to be adequate progress by the Christmas break, a conference will be held with the teacher, parents, and the
Headmaster to consider a plan for the child.
F. Withdrawal
Although CCS would like a student to spend his/her entire academic career here, due to a great variety of circumstances,
parents sometimes find it necessary to withdraw their child/children from CCS. Realizing that this is a natural occurrence, a
release form must be signed by the parent giving CCS permission to forward the child’s permanent file to the new school
setting. However, records will not be released if a student’s tuition and/or fee account are not up-to-date. Once all
accounts are paid in full, a student’s records will be forwarded to the new school.
HEALTH ISSUES
A. Illness/injuries in School
Parents will be notified if their child becomes ill during school hours, so the child can be taken home. Parents need to
arrange for transportation home promptly, as there are no facilities or extra personnel to care for sick children. In the event
of a serious accident, CCS will contact the parents and Cullman EMS to provide immediate medical attention.
B. Immunizations
All Students need to provide the school with a current health record, which should include a physician’s exam and
immunization record. Students must have all required immunizations before entering CCS. Annual immunizations are
required for all students. Influenza vaccine is now recommended each fall for all school age children.
C. Emergency Contacts Notification
An Emergency Contact Form is sent home at the beginning of each school year. It is important for parents to provide the
school with emergency telephone numbers of home and business, as well as the name and number of a relative or neighbor
to be contacted if a parent cannot be reached. If a child becomes ill or is injured at school, it is crucial that we get in touch
with someone, should the child need immediate care or need to be picked up from school. If this contact information changes
during the school year, please notify the school in writing immediately.
D. Medication Policy
If it becomes necessary for a student to take medication during school hours, the parent or a designated responsible person
will assist the student upon written orders from the physician or parent bearing the following information:
• Signed consent by the parent/guardian to give the medication
• Signed medication order
The Medication Order Form should be taken to your child’s licensed prescriber (physician, nurse practitioner) for completion
and returned to the school office signed by the doctor and the parent. This information must be on file in a child’s health
record before we can administer any medication at school. A separate form for each medication needed to be taken at school
is required. This order must be renewed as needed and at the beginning of each new school year.
All medications should be delivered to school in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled container. Any container needs to be
clearly labeled with the student’s name. Please ask the pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and for home. No
more than a 30-day supply should be delivered to school. Please follow this policy so that your child will receive all
prescribed medication as soon as possible. Over the counter medication (i.e. Tylenol, cough drops, aspirin, etc) may be
dispensed by appropriate school personnel, if it is provided in the original container, labeled with the child’s name, and
accompanied by written parental permission. Sufficient medicine may be left in the office and will be dispensed per
instructions given. No medication will be administered without the approval of the office.
Under no circumstances should medication of any kind be packed in the child’s lunchbox to be taken at his/her
discretion.
C. Contagious Illnesses
Parent cooperation is important in maintaining a healthy environment at CCS.
Please do NOT send your child to school if he/she is ill!
The following are indications that a child should not be in school:
• Fever over 99 degrees
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Pediculosis (head lice)
• Strep throat or pending throat culture
• Contagious diseases such as chicken pox, influenza, Fifth’s disease, etc.
Please keep your child at home if he/she has a fever over 99 degrees, even if you have given Tylenol to reduce the fever.
Your child should also stay at home if he/she has vomited during the night. Stomach viruses spread through the classroom
very quickly! If your child contracts a contagious virus or illness, please inform the school office. Students who have had a
fever or vomiting must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child contracts head lice, please let
us know so we can monitor classrooms and check students. Letters will be sent home to the parents of the infected class.
Children will not be readmitted into the classroom until cleared by their pediatrician.
D. Clean Air
Cullman Christian School is a smoke-free campus. Tobacco products including smokeless tobacco are not allowed indoors
or on campus.
E. Fragrances
CCS also requests that students and faculty refrain from wearing cologne and perfume during school hours.
ATHLETIC POLICIES
Our athletic handbook contains more detailed information needed by parents and student athletes.
A. Sports Participation Requirements
Students need a physical exam prior to participation in team sports. Please click here to download a form for your
pediatrician or doctor to complete and return to his/her teacher or coach. Student health and safety from heat-related illness
and injury are our highest priority.
B. Academic Eligibility
Student athletes must maintain a certain grade point average to continue participation in extracurricular team sports. If a
student athlete falls below a C grade average, the student will be disallowed from practice and competition until cleared to
return by the teacher(s) and team coach. Coaches may set higher standards for individual sports.
C. Registration and Fees
Students will need to sign up for sports offered by the deadline posted. A $50 participation fee per student per sport will
cover team jerseys, common team equipment, and travel expenses. Uniforms remain the property of CCS.
DISCIPLINE POLICY
“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) “No discipline seems
pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have
been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11)
The Bible teaches that discipline is an essential part of growth and maturity in all areas of life… physical, emotional,
mental, and spiritual. Students are the school’s actual responsibility for the school day, yet it is our basic philosophy to
involve the parent in the process of developing mature behavior patterns. Consistent parental support of the teachers and
administration is of major importance in the joint effort of training children.
Preschool
Harsh punishment is prohibited. Teachers are required to use appropriate measures to help the child develop his own self
control and to become responsible for his actions. At the same time, there are strict limits to ensure safety of individuals
within the group. Excessive aggressive behavior will not be tolerated. If a child is exhibiting dangerous behavior toward
another child or teacher, the parents will be called immediately to pick up the child. A conference will be scheduled with the
parents to discuss appropriate disciplinary procedures .CCS reserves the right to terminate enrollment in the event that a
child’s behavior is harmful to other students or the child’s needs are not compatible with our program.
Kindergarten
The THREE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions
• Stay in seat
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
Students are expected to adhere to the above rules. Teachers will assign consequences if these behaviors are not followed.
CONSEQUENCES:
Children will pull strips for not following the rules. Strip consequences are as follows:
Yellow – warning
Orange – 5 minute time-out and note sent home
Red – 10 minute time out and teacher will contact parents
Black – student will be sent to the office and parents will be contacted for conference
Elementary School
The FIVE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions
• Stay in seat
• Raise hand to speak in class
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
• Show courtesy and respect for others
MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL
The FIVE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions the first time they are given
• Be in your seat when the bell rings and remain seated unless given permission to get up.
• Raise hand to speak in class and wait to be called on.
• Respect each other by keeping hands, feet, and objects to yourself and do not call each other names.
• Bring all materials to class.
Students are expected to adhere to the above rules. Teachers will assign consequences if these behaviors are not followed.
The purpose of the discipline system is to provide a record of the student’s disciplinary problems.
Each time a student violates the CCS classroom discipline plan a copy of the discipline form will be sent home to be signed
and an e-mail will be sent to the parent. The student he/she will be assigned various penalties and/or specific disciplinary
action:
Minor infraction: A letter is sent home and the student is required to see an administrator.
Detention
Detentions may be given by teachers for infractions of classroom and/or school rules. Students will serve detention in school
at recess or free activity periods. Students may not participate in any after-school activities on the day of serving a
detention. Detentions take priority over any after-school activities. If a student is assigned four (4) detentions in a semester,
the Headmaster may assign an in-house suspension or require a parent conference. After four (4) additional detentions, an
out-of-school suspension may result. Saturday work detention may be required from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00, billed to the
parents at $8.00 an hour. Parents are required to meet with the administrator, and the student is placed on disciplinary
probation.
A student on probation is not allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities, including but not limited to field trips.
A student with two consecutive semesters of disciplinary probation may not re-enroll for the next school year.
Suspension
The Headmaster will contact the parents when a suspension is issued and, if necessary, a conference will be scheduled.
Work missed during the time of suspension must be completed. The following areas will result in immediate suspension:
• Use of obscenities (swear words), racial slurs, or profanities (taking the Lord’s name in vain) (Exodus 20:7)
• Physical abuse (fighting) with another student
• Theft, vandalism, or destruction of personal or school property
• Defiance of authority
In addition, if a student displays chronic misbehavior or cheats, a suspension may be imposed at the Headmaster’s
discretion. Parents will be notified should this type of a problem exist.
Expulsion
Upon the recommendation of the Headmaster, the School Board may move to dismiss a student. This may involve a
conference with the School Board, Headmaster, parent(s), and where appropriate, the student. Any action for dismissal
would be duly noted in the student’s permanent file. The decision of CCS is final. Unused tuition will not be refunded.
Expulsion may be the result of:
• Excessive behavior problem or two out-of-school suspensions
• Negative attitude: a consistently negative attitude and/or behavior pattern detrimental to the goals of the school and/or
disruptive to the educational process.
• Drugs (illegal)/alcohol possession
• Weapons: possession of a gun, knife, or any other weapon, or threatening the use of same
• Serious physical threats or attacks of any nature that would jeopardize the safety of the students or staff
A Partial List of Conduct Not Allowed
1. Cheating on homework: F on homework (Homework will be redone for no credit)
2. Cheating on a quiz: F on the quiz
3. Cheating on a test: F on test
4. Cheating on semester exam:
5. Cutting classes:
6. Direct disobedience:
7. Disrespect:
8. Drinking alcoholic beverages:
9. Fighting or horseplay(Depending on offense):
10. Gum chewing:
11. Hair or dress code:(Depending on frequency and Type of offense):
12. Sexual Activity:
13. Having/using electronic equipment:
14. Illegal drugs:
15. Profanity:
16. Rowdiness in rooms or halls:
17. Smoking:
18. Stealing:
19. Being tardy for school or class:
20. Lying
21. Vandalism (Depending on offense): payment for repairs
22. Writing, passing and/or reading notes:
23. Defacing textbooks including Bible: purchase of replacement
24. Public Display of Affection:
25. Having a weapon on school grounds (depending on“weapon”):
Alabama Driving Privelges/ Taylor's Law -Each accumulated point makes the student wait one week to apply for a
permit or driver's license.
*One day in-school suspension.........1 point
*One day out-of-school suspension......2 points
*Alternative ed. Placement................6 points
*Expulsion from school....................20 points
*Points begin to accumulate the school year the student turns 13 (typically 7th grade)
*As the law currently reads, no teen will have to wait more than one year to obtain a permit or license
*If a student accumulates points in a school year, but does not accumulate points in the following school year...the number
of accumulated points will be reduced by half.
* If a student does not accumulate any points for two consecutive years, all of the points will be removed.
The state-wide data collection system, known at STI will contain the program for calculating accumulated points
Harassment Statement
Cullman Christian School will not tolerate abusive behavior toward its students or employees. CCS will be a safe
environment for those who work and study here. Among prohibited behaviors are bullying of one student by another
student or other students. In addition, unlawful sexual harassment, as defined to include unwelcome sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature is strictly prohibited and will be
punished to the fullest extent of the law. All complaints should be directed to the Headmaster who will be the school’s
reporting officer. Investigation will include written statements from the accused and the complainant. The accused has ten
days to respond to the allegations. Sanctions will be imposed for substantiated charges as appropriate and may include
expulsion of student offenders and termination of staff offenders.
TUITION POLICY
Basic Policies
• The registration fee is due upon submission for application or re-enrollment. This fee is nonrefundable.
• The first month’s tuition is due June 1st. A form designating how one wishes to pay tuition should accompany all
enrollment and re-enrollment forms
• Tuition is payable in 12 monthly installments from June 1 through May 1. Alternatively the payments can be
spread over 10 months beginning August 1st.
PreCare and Aftercare is billed on a monthly basis, with a time slip sent out the beginning of each month. The
family will pay for days to be used at the beginning of each month. Extra days may be added at the daily rate but
unused days will not be refunded.
• A check returned for insufficient funds (NSF) will be charged a fee of $30.00. If an account has more than two
returned checks for NSF, all future payments must be made in the form of a money order, cashier’s check, or cash.
• All accounts are due and payable on the first day of each month, unless prior arrangements have been made with the
Headmaster. There is a five day grace period for all tuition payments. A late fee of 10% per month will be charged if
tuition is received after the 5th day of the month.
• Any account over 30 days past due will be subject to the student being held from the classroom unless arrangements
are made through the school office. A written notice will be sent on the 30th day giving families five school days to make
the payment before the student is withheld from class.
• Past due accounts will be subject to report cards being withheld until payments are up to date.
• All accounts must be current in order to re-enroll for the next school year.
• Graduating students’ accounts must be paid in full before graduation.
Automatic bank draft of monthly tuition is available. An enrollment form is attached here.
Discounts
There is a discount for tuition paid-in-full in advance of the school opening in the fall. There is a 4% discount* if
complete tuition is paid by May 31st.
There is a $25 discount for early registration (by February 28).
There is a discount plan for families with more than one child enrolled in CCS* (see the fee schedule). Discounts do
not apply to the portion of the tuition used for book fees.
There is a discount for children of CCS full-time staff (50%), CCS part-time staff (25%), and local church pastors
(25%). Employees and pastors are not eligible for the additional prepayment discounts. Discounts do not apply to the
portion of the tuition used for book fees.
*these discounts are eligible only for students in K5-12 grades but do not apply for preschool (K3, K4)
Proration: a month's tuition will be prorated by half month increments for late enrolling students who enter CCS after the
15th day of month. Withdrawing students will not be refunded for months in which full or partial attendance occurs. Only
unused months will be refunded. The portion of the tuition used for book fees cannot be refunded.
Please see the Tuition Page for this year’s tuition fee schedule, multi-child discounts, and definition for eligible clergy.
In addition, if your child’s tuition is to be paid by a third party (someone other than the child’s legal guardian), the legal
guardian must sign a release form. This signed release form will allow CCS to discuss financial information ONLY with
this person. Please direct any questions concerning tuition to the school office
Revisions and Updates
The Board of Directors and School administration reserve the right to modify or edit School policies as needed. Please refer
to the most current version of the student handbook or contact your teacher or the Headmaster for questions. This on-line
copy of the Handbook will be considered the most recent version.
rev. 1/10
The basic uniform for CCS boys in all grades consists of solid khaki or navy blue slacks or Bermuda-length shorts with a
white, light blue, gold or navy blue polo shirt. No cargo-style pants will be allowed. Boys may also choose to wear a
long-sleeve button-down oxford in white or light blue. Polo and oxford shirts are available in either long or short sleeves
and should be solid colors without logos. Oxford and polo shirts can be worn with the “CCS” crest and will be available.
Shirts should be tucked in at the waist. Belts should be worn. Hats may not be worn inside the building. Footwear is to
be black or brown shoes or sneakers. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class. Solid
navy sweaters may be either a V-neck cardigan or V-neck pullover. If warmth is desired, either of the two school sweaters
may be worn. A solid navy “CCS” monogrammed polar fleece or sweatshirt may be ordered and worn in place of the
sweaters. Coats, sweatshirts, or non-uniform polar fleece may not be worn to class During the winter months, a plain
white turtleneck may be worn under the sweater. Hair should be neat and not below the collar, over the eyebrows or ears.
Boys should be clean-shaven with no piercing or tattoos (permanent or temporary) visible.
C. Physical Education Uniform
Girls and boys in 5th through 8th grades are required to dress out for physical education. Gym uniforms consist of a
Cullman Christian School Athletics shirt and navy shorts which may be purchased from the School. An order form can be
printed here. Those students on an athletic team that practices during PE class will wear their sport practice uniform. On
days that the team does not practice they will wear the standard PE uniform. During events where swimwear is
appropriate, girls may wear modest one-piece bathing suits and tankinis; bikinis are not permitted.
Sources for School Uniforms:
Cumming’s Sporting Goods
Order forms are available from the school or can be downloaded here.
Land’s End
go to www.landsend.com/school
Use preferred school code # 900127663 to see our school dress code and order desired items.
The school crest (Logo Number: 0848814K can be applied to shirts and fleeces for $8.10 each)
French Toast
Go to www.frenchtoast.com
Use school source code# QS5CXKE to see our school dress code and order desired items.
*Please make sure any uniform items purchased from other retail stores conform to the school dress code. Please consult the
handbook above for details. Please note gold colored polos must be gold and not yellow- for example "pure gold" by
Hanes. Land's End and FrenchToast do not carry gold polos.
D. Special Programs, Casual Days and Extracurricular Activities
When students are participating in special programs, they may be allowed to wear clothing other than the school uniform.
In this event, parents will be notified in writing before the program. All clothing must be modest in length and coverage (no
low-cut, short length, or halter/spaghetti-strap dresses). For field trips, all students will wear the same color shirt or school
uniform- to be announced by the teacher. At times during the year, CCS may sponsor a dress-down day for a celebration,
field trip, or fundraiser. All changes will be made in writing or by email before the event, with appropriate clothing listed.
Students may wear clothing other than school uniforms to extra-curricular activities such as sports events. All clothing
must be modest in length and coverage and must follow the guidelines set forth in this handbook.
E. Consequences (for improper apparel)
The first time a student comes to school out of uniform, the parents will be notified in writing or by e-mail. The second
time, the parents will be contacted and required to bring the appropriate uniform to school. If the problem persists, the
parent/guardian and student will be required to meet with the Headmaster to deal with the problem and formulate a
solution. Determination of uniform policy violations is at the discretion of the CCS faculty. Demerits will be
assigned- see below.
GRADING AND REPORT CARDS
Report cards record each student’s grades and also personal comments about the student’s achievements, effort, and
conduct. To monitor student progress, a report card will be issued every six weeks during the school year. The Christian
school student should strive at all times to do the best work possible.
During the first six weeks, report cards will be given out at parent/teacher conferences. The following six-week periods, the
student will bring the report card home to the parents. If there is a past due balance on a student’s account, the report card
will not be released until the balance is paid in full.
Progress reports will be given out every three weeks to inform parents of grades and conduct on an ongoing basis. Parents
will be required to sign and return the progress reports as soon as possible.
Kindergarten/Conduct marks
O Outstanding 93 - 100
S+ Above Average 86 - 92
S Average 76 - 85
N Needs Improvement 70 - 75
U Unsatisfactory Below 70
Grades 1 - 12
A+ 97 – 100
A 93 – 96
A- 90 – 92
B+ 87 – 89
B 83 – 86
B- 80 – 82
C+ 77 - 79
C 73 - 76
C- 70 - 72
D+ 67 – 69
D 63 – 66
D- 60 – 62
F Below 60
Honor Awards
Annual awards are given out for academic achievement in grades 1 –12 as follows:
High Honor Roll: A in major subject areas
Not less than a B in conduct, effort and other subjects
Honor Roll: A’s and B’s in the major subject areas
A or B in effort and conduct
Not less than a C in other subjects
ATTENDANCE POLICY
A. Absences
Providing a quality education depends on regular class attendance.
Parents are asked to call the school office at 734-0734 before 9:00 AM if their child will not be coming to school on a
particular day. Students who are absent must submit a written excuse signed by a parent/legal guardian on the day of
returning to school. If a written excuse is not received by the third day after an absence, your child’s absence will be
documented as unexcused. The note should indicate the reason for the absence and the date(s) of absence. Please note that
phone calls to the school office notifying a staff member of an absence does not replace the need for written documentation
from the parent/legal guardian.
A doctor’s note will be required for any absence over five consecutive days or for any contagious illness or condition.
Absences, tardies, and early departures will be considered excused or unexcused according to the following standards:
Excused: illness, death in the family, emergency (specify), impassable roads due to inclement weather or accidents,
medical appointments which cannot be scheduled at other times. If absence is excused, make-up work will be allowed.
Make-up work should be completed within 3 days of the student’s return to school or they will receive a zero for the missing
assignments.
Unexcused: any other circumstance not approved by school officials or absence without a written note. Make-up
work will not be allowed.
If a student is going to be absent from school for reasons other than illness (i.e., medical or academic testing, extended
family vacations, etc.), the parents should notify the school in writing as far in advance of the absence as possible.
All students are expected to abide by all Alabama state laws and school regulations regarding school attendance.
Parents/guardians should make every effort to see that a student is present every day that school is in session. Absences
disrupt the continuity of instruction and education cannot be entirely regained, even by extra after-school help. Learning
gained
through interaction with peers and staff in the class cannot be duplicated.
Any student who is absent may not participate in any after-school activities on that day.
If a student has more than fifteen absences in a semester, his/her academic standing may be jeopardized. The parents may
be asked to meet with the Headmaster to discuss the situation and any possible ramifications. In addition, if a child is
absent for at least 20 days during the school year, his/her school records may be subject to review and his/her academic
standing may be
jeopardized in this case, as well. A determination will be made whether dismissal is warranted due to lack of attendance.
Also, the appropriate City truancy officer may be contacted to report excessive absences to comply with Alabama state law.
B. Tardiness
Any student arriving after 8:15 AM must use the front entrance and report to the school office for a late slip before entering
the
classroom. All tardiness (excused or unexcused) must be recorded for state records. Tardiness will be excused if due to
motor
vehicle problems or medical emergencies. Any student arriving after 11:00 AM will be marked absent for the day.
Getting to school on time is an important cooperative effort for the whole family.
Being consistently tardy is a hindrance to academic progress and will not be tolerated.
A conference with the Headmaster, parents/guardians, and the student may be required when a student in grades 4-12
accumulates three unexcused tardies. Demerits will be assigned-see below.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
A. Homework Policy
Homework is assigned to CCS students for review, practice and development of skills presented during class time.
Homework also teaches a child responsibility and allows a family an opportunity to participate in certain learning
experiences. The amount of homework varies, depending on the grade level, and may be given any night, including
Friday. Homework on Wednesday night will be lighter to encourage family church attendance. Homework assignments for
certain middle and high school classes will be posted weekly on the website listed under the respective teachers.
B. Homework Requests
There may be times when a child cannot be in school and parents wish to request homework.
Please observe the following procedures when requesting homework:
If you would like homework on the day of the child’s absence, please request the homework as early as possible.
Homework may be picked up at 2:15 PM. However, on some days, teachers have no free time and homework may not be
available until the next day; we will notify you if this is the case. For prolonged absences such as vacations or trips, please
request the work at least one week in advance. Work missed will have to be made up. Even though homework can be given
and made up, absences may still affect grades. This can happen when a student misses classroom discussions, oral drills,
initial instruction and some activities that can’t be duplicated. Please be aware of this when making traveling plans.
C. Permanent Records
The school maintains a permanent cumulative file on all CCS students. Records of health, grades, standardized test scores,
and disciplinary reports make up most of the content. Parents may view their child’s permanent record at any time by
making an appointment for this purpose. Transfer of records to another school is provided by mail directly to the receiving
school.
D. Standardized Testing
All students in grades K-12 will participate in standardized testing in April. The Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) is used
in each grade to help measure academic progress and to evaluate strengths and weaknesses. Parents will receive copies of
the results, typically during the summer.
E. Promotion
Students in grades one through twelve are promoted to the following grade level on the basis of academic achievement.
Students in kindergarten are also evaluated by emotional and social growth for readiness for first grade. If there does not
appear to be adequate progress by the Christmas break, a conference will be held with the teacher, parents, and the
Headmaster to consider a plan for the child.
F. Withdrawal
Although CCS would like a student to spend his/her entire academic career here, due to a great variety of circumstances,
parents sometimes find it necessary to withdraw their child/children from CCS. Realizing that this is a natural occurrence, a
release form must be signed by the parent giving CCS permission to forward the child’s permanent file to the new school
setting. However, records will not be released if a student’s tuition and/or fee account are not up-to-date. Once all
accounts are paid in full, a student’s records will be forwarded to the new school.
HEALTH ISSUES
A. Illness/injuries in School
Parents will be notified if their child becomes ill during school hours, so the child can be taken home. Parents need to
arrange for transportation home promptly, as there are no facilities or extra personnel to care for sick children. In the event
of a serious accident, CCS will contact the parents and Cullman EMS to provide immediate medical attention.
B. Immunizations
All Students need to provide the school with a current health record, which should include a physician’s exam and
immunization record. Students must have all required immunizations before entering CCS. Annual immunizations are
required for all students. Influenza vaccine is now recommended each fall for all school age children.
C. Emergency Contacts Notification
An Emergency Contact Form is sent home at the beginning of each school year. It is important for parents to provide the
school with emergency telephone numbers of home and business, as well as the name and number of a relative or neighbor
to be contacted if a parent cannot be reached. If a child becomes ill or is injured at school, it is crucial that we get in touch
with someone, should the child need immediate care or need to be picked up from school. If this contact information changes
during the school year, please notify the school in writing immediately.
D. Medication Policy
If it becomes necessary for a student to take medication during school hours, the parent or a designated responsible person
will assist the student upon written orders from the physician or parent bearing the following information:
• Signed consent by the parent/guardian to give the medication
• Signed medication order
The Medication Order Form should be taken to your child’s licensed prescriber (physician, nurse practitioner) for completion
and returned to the school office signed by the doctor and the parent. This information must be on file in a child’s health
record before we can administer any medication at school. A separate form for each medication needed to be taken at school
is required. This order must be renewed as needed and at the beginning of each new school year.
All medications should be delivered to school in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled container. Any container needs to be
clearly labeled with the student’s name. Please ask the pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and for home. No
more than a 30-day supply should be delivered to school. Please follow this policy so that your child will receive all
prescribed medication as soon as possible. Over the counter medication (i.e. Tylenol, cough drops, aspirin, etc) may be
dispensed by appropriate school personnel, if it is provided in the original container, labeled with the child’s name, and
accompanied by written parental permission. Sufficient medicine may be left in the office and will be dispensed per
instructions given. No medication will be administered without the approval of the office.
Under no circumstances should medication of any kind be packed in the child’s lunchbox to be taken at his/her
discretion.
C. Contagious Illnesses
Parent cooperation is important in maintaining a healthy environment at CCS.
Please do NOT send your child to school if he/she is ill!
The following are indications that a child should not be in school:
• Fever over 99 degrees
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Pediculosis (head lice)
• Strep throat or pending throat culture
• Contagious diseases such as chicken pox, influenza, Fifth’s disease, etc.
Please keep your child at home if he/she has a fever over 99 degrees, even if you have given Tylenol to reduce the fever.
Your child should also stay at home if he/she has vomited during the night. Stomach viruses spread through the classroom
very quickly! If your child contracts a contagious virus or illness, please inform the school office. Students who have had a
fever or vomiting must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child contracts head lice, please let
us know so we can monitor classrooms and check students. Letters will be sent home to the parents of the infected class.
Children will not be readmitted into the classroom until cleared by their pediatrician.
D. Clean Air
Cullman Christian School is a smoke-free campus. Tobacco products including smokeless tobacco are not allowed indoors
or on campus.
E. Fragrances
CCS also requests that students and faculty refrain from wearing cologne and perfume during school hours.
ATHLETIC POLICIES
Our athletic handbook contains more detailed information needed by parents and student athletes.
A. Sports Participation Requirements
Students need a physical exam prior to participation in team sports. Please click here to download a form for your
pediatrician or doctor to complete and return to his/her teacher or coach. Student health and safety from heat-related illness
and injury are our highest priority.
B. Academic Eligibility
Student athletes must maintain a certain grade point average to continue participation in extracurricular team sports. If a
student athlete falls below a C grade average, the student will be disallowed from practice and competition until cleared to
return by the teacher(s) and team coach. Coaches may set higher standards for individual sports.
C. Registration and Fees
Students will need to sign up for sports offered by the deadline posted. A $50 participation fee per student per sport will
cover team jerseys, common team equipment, and travel expenses. Uniforms remain the property of CCS.
DISCIPLINE POLICY
“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) “No discipline seems
pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have
been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11)
The Bible teaches that discipline is an essential part of growth and maturity in all areas of life… physical, emotional,
mental, and spiritual. Students are the school’s actual responsibility for the school day, yet it is our basic philosophy to
involve the parent in the process of developing mature behavior patterns. Consistent parental support of the teachers and
administration is of major importance in the joint effort of training children.
Preschool
Harsh punishment is prohibited. Teachers are required to use appropriate measures to help the child develop his own self
control and to become responsible for his actions. At the same time, there are strict limits to ensure safety of individuals
within the group. Excessive aggressive behavior will not be tolerated. If a child is exhibiting dangerous behavior toward
another child or teacher, the parents will be called immediately to pick up the child. A conference will be scheduled with the
parents to discuss appropriate disciplinary procedures .CCS reserves the right to terminate enrollment in the event that a
child’s behavior is harmful to other students or the child’s needs are not compatible with our program.
Kindergarten
The THREE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions
• Stay in seat
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
Students are expected to adhere to the above rules. Teachers will assign consequences if these behaviors are not followed.
CONSEQUENCES:
Children will pull strips for not following the rules. Strip consequences are as follows:
Yellow – warning
Orange – 5 minute time-out and note sent home
Red – 10 minute time out and teacher will contact parents
Black – student will be sent to the office and parents will be contacted for conference
Elementary School
The FIVE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions
• Stay in seat
• Raise hand to speak in class
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
• Show courtesy and respect for others
MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL
The FIVE BASIC BEHAVIORS that are posted for all students are as follows:
• Follow directions the first time they are given
• Be in your seat when the bell rings and remain seated unless given permission to get up.
• Raise hand to speak in class and wait to be called on.
• Respect each other by keeping hands, feet, and objects to yourself and do not call each other names.
• Bring all materials to class.
Students are expected to adhere to the above rules. Teachers will assign consequences if these behaviors are not followed.
The purpose of the discipline system is to provide a record of the student’s disciplinary problems.
Each time a student violates the CCS classroom discipline plan a copy of the discipline form will be sent home to be signed
and an e-mail will be sent to the parent. The student he/she will be assigned various penalties and/or specific disciplinary
action:
Minor infraction: A letter is sent home and the student is required to see an administrator.
Detention
Detentions may be given by teachers for infractions of classroom and/or school rules. Students will serve detention in school
at recess or free activity periods. Students may not participate in any after-school activities on the day of serving a
detention. Detentions take priority over any after-school activities. If a student is assigned four (4) detentions in a semester,
the Headmaster may assign an in-house suspension or require a parent conference. After four (4) additional detentions, an
out-of-school suspension may result. Saturday work detention may be required from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00, billed to the
parents at $8.00 an hour. Parents are required to meet with the administrator, and the student is placed on disciplinary
probation.
A student on probation is not allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities, including but not limited to field trips.
A student with two consecutive semesters of disciplinary probation may not re-enroll for the next school year.
Suspension
The Headmaster will contact the parents when a suspension is issued and, if necessary, a conference will be scheduled.
Work missed during the time of suspension must be completed. The following areas will result in immediate suspension:
• Use of obscenities (swear words), racial slurs, or profanities (taking the Lord’s name in vain) (Exodus 20:7)
• Physical abuse (fighting) with another student
• Theft, vandalism, or destruction of personal or school property
• Defiance of authority
In addition, if a student displays chronic misbehavior or cheats, a suspension may be imposed at the Headmaster’s
discretion. Parents will be notified should this type of a problem exist.
Expulsion
Upon the recommendation of the Headmaster, the School Board may move to dismiss a student. This may involve a
conference with the School Board, Headmaster, parent(s), and where appropriate, the student. Any action for dismissal
would be duly noted in the student’s permanent file. The decision of CCS is final. Unused tuition will not be refunded.
Expulsion may be the result of:
• Excessive behavior problem or two out-of-school suspensions
• Negative attitude: a consistently negative attitude and/or behavior pattern detrimental to the goals of the school and/or
disruptive to the educational process.
• Drugs (illegal)/alcohol possession
• Weapons: possession of a gun, knife, or any other weapon, or threatening the use of same
• Serious physical threats or attacks of any nature that would jeopardize the safety of the students or staff
A Partial List of Conduct Not Allowed
1. Cheating on homework: F on homework (Homework will be redone for no credit)
2. Cheating on a quiz: F on the quiz
3. Cheating on a test: F on test
4. Cheating on semester exam:
5. Cutting classes:
6. Direct disobedience:
7. Disrespect:
8. Drinking alcoholic beverages:
9. Fighting or horseplay(Depending on offense):
10. Gum chewing:
11. Hair or dress code:(Depending on frequency and Type of offense):
12. Sexual Activity:
13. Having/using electronic equipment:
14. Illegal drugs:
15. Profanity:
16. Rowdiness in rooms or halls:
17. Smoking:
18. Stealing:
19. Being tardy for school or class:
20. Lying
21. Vandalism (Depending on offense): payment for repairs
22. Writing, passing and/or reading notes:
23. Defacing textbooks including Bible: purchase of replacement
24. Public Display of Affection:
25. Having a weapon on school grounds (depending on“weapon”):
Alabama Driving Privelges/ Taylor's Law -Each accumulated point makes the student wait one week to apply for a
permit or driver's license.
*One day in-school suspension.........1 point
*One day out-of-school suspension......2 points
*Alternative ed. Placement................6 points
*Expulsion from school....................20 points
*Points begin to accumulate the school year the student turns 13 (typically 7th grade)
*As the law currently reads, no teen will have to wait more than one year to obtain a permit or license
*If a student accumulates points in a school year, but does not accumulate points in the following school year...the number
of accumulated points will be reduced by half.
* If a student does not accumulate any points for two consecutive years, all of the points will be removed.
The state-wide data collection system, known at STI will contain the program for calculating accumulated points
Harassment Statement
Cullman Christian School will not tolerate abusive behavior toward its students or employees. CCS will be a safe
environment for those who work and study here. Among prohibited behaviors are bullying of one student by another
student or other students. In addition, unlawful sexual harassment, as defined to include unwelcome sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature is strictly prohibited and will be
punished to the fullest extent of the law. All complaints should be directed to the Headmaster who will be the school’s
reporting officer. Investigation will include written statements from the accused and the complainant. The accused has ten
days to respond to the allegations. Sanctions will be imposed for substantiated charges as appropriate and may include
expulsion of student offenders and termination of staff offenders.
TUITION POLICY
Basic Policies
• The registration fee is due upon submission for application or re-enrollment. This fee is nonrefundable.
• The first month’s tuition is due June 1st. A form designating how one wishes to pay tuition should accompany all
enrollment and re-enrollment forms
• Tuition is payable in 12 monthly installments from June 1 through May 1. Alternatively the payments can be
spread over 10 months beginning August 1st.
PreCare and Aftercare is billed on a monthly basis, with a time slip sent out the beginning of each month. The
family will pay for days to be used at the beginning of each month. Extra days may be added at the daily rate but
unused days will not be refunded.
• A check returned for insufficient funds (NSF) will be charged a fee of $30.00. If an account has more than two
returned checks for NSF, all future payments must be made in the form of a money order, cashier’s check, or cash.
• All accounts are due and payable on the first day of each month, unless prior arrangements have been made with the
Headmaster. There is a five day grace period for all tuition payments. A late fee of 10% per month will be charged if
tuition is received after the 5th day of the month.
• Any account over 30 days past due will be subject to the student being held from the classroom unless arrangements
are made through the school office. A written notice will be sent on the 30th day giving families five school days to make
the payment before the student is withheld from class.
• Past due accounts will be subject to report cards being withheld until payments are up to date.
• All accounts must be current in order to re-enroll for the next school year.
• Graduating students’ accounts must be paid in full before graduation.
Automatic bank draft of monthly tuition is available. An enrollment form is attached here.
Discounts
There is a discount for tuition paid-in-full in advance of the school opening in the fall. There is a 4% discount* if
complete tuition is paid by May 31st.
There is a $25 discount for early registration (by February 28).
There is a discount plan for families with more than one child enrolled in CCS* (see the fee schedule). Discounts do
not apply to the portion of the tuition used for book fees.
There is a discount for children of CCS full-time staff (50%), CCS part-time staff (25%), and local church pastors
(25%). Employees and pastors are not eligible for the additional prepayment discounts. Discounts do not apply to the
portion of the tuition used for book fees.
*these discounts are eligible only for students in K5-12 grades but do not apply for preschool (K3, K4)
Proration: a month's tuition will be prorated by half month increments for late enrolling students who enter CCS after the
15th day of month. Withdrawing students will not be refunded for months in which full or partial attendance occurs. Only
unused months will be refunded. The portion of the tuition used for book fees cannot be refunded.
Please see the Tuition Page for this year’s tuition fee schedule, multi-child discounts, and definition for eligible clergy.
In addition, if your child’s tuition is to be paid by a third party (someone other than the child’s legal guardian), the legal
guardian must sign a release form. This signed release form will allow CCS to discuss financial information ONLY with
this person. Please direct any questions concerning tuition to the school office
Revisions and Updates
The Board of Directors and School administration reserve the right to modify or edit School policies as needed. Please refer
to the most current version of the student handbook or contact your teacher or the Headmaster for questions. This on-line
copy of the Handbook will be considered the most recent version.
rev. 1/10
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