Student Handbook

2019 – 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Information Page/Alma Mater..........................................................................................................................................3Mission Statement/Objectives and Beliefs......................................................................................................................4Accreditation/Purpose/Facilities/Board of Directors..................................................................................................5Faculty and Staff..................................................................................................................................................................6Admissions and Enrollment Procedures.........................................................................................................................7Delinquent Account Policy................................................................................................................................................7

Delinquent Accounts...................................................................................................................................................71st Failed Collection Attempt......................................................................................................................................82nd Failed Collection Attempt/1st Failed Collection Attempt with Problematic History/One (1)

Month Behind on Payments...............................................................................................................................83rd Failed Collection Attempt/Two (2) Months Behind on Payments................................................................84th Failed Collection Attempt/Three (3) Months Behind on Payments..............................................................8

Attendance Policies.............................................................................................................................................................8Arrival and Departure; General Attendance Policies.............................................................................................8Make-Up Work for Excused Absences; Truancy; Class Attendance; Student Check-Outs............................9Student Check-Ins; Tardies......................................................................................................................................10

Student Conduct................................................................................................................................................................10Your Record; Discipline; Behavior.........................................................................................................................10Cell Phones and Communication Devices; Social Media and Blogging...........................................................11Bullying/Cyberbullying; Lockers; Food and Drinks............................................................................................12Drugs and Alcohol; Tobacco, E-Cigarettes, Vapor, or Other Vapor Related Products; Student

Drug Testing for Reasonable Suspicion.........................................................................................................13Laser Lights; Weapons; Threats, Physical Harm, or Threatened Physical Harm; Gambling;

Forgery of Notes; Stealing; Lost or Damaged Textbooks/Library Books; Married Students,Pregnant Students, Students with Children; Care of School Property.......................................................14

Attire and Appearance .............................................................................................................................................15Dress Code............................................................................................................................................................15-16AISA Student Appearance Policy............................................................................................................................16Honor Code................................................................................................................................................................16Expulsion and Suspension........................................................................................................................................17

Academic Expectations....................................................................................................................................................17Instructional Guidelines............................................................................................................................................17The Curriculum.....................................................................................................................................................17-18

Grading System..................................................................................................................................................................18Grading Scale/Progress Reports/Nine-Weeks Tests..........................................................................................18Semester Exams/Report Cards/Headmaster’s List/Honor Roll......................................................................19

Graduation Requirements and Diploma Options..................................................................................................20-21High School Credits..........................................................................................................................................................22

Transfer Students/Transfer Student Credits.........................................................................................................22Dual Enrollment Credits...........................................................................................................................................22

Promotion...........................................................................................................................................................................22Community Service...........................................................................................................................................................23Standardized Testing.........................................................................................................................................................23Permanent Record Folders..............................................................................................................................................23Honors and Awards....................................................................................................................................................24-25Vehicle on Campus...........................................................................................................................................................25Problem Solving Procedure.............................................................................................................................................25Miscellaneous Information..............................................................................................................................................26

Daily Announcements; Break and Lunch; First Aid; Lost and Found; Restrooms; Telephone;Visitors; Emergency/Safety Drills...........................................................................................................................26

Parental Responsibility................................................................................................................................................26-27Extracurricular Activities/Clubs/Organizations..........................................................................................................27

Yearbook Staff; Scholars Bowl; Student Government Association (SGA)......................................................27

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Pep Club; Cheerleading; Beta Club; Homecoming..............................................................................................28By Laws of the Student Government.......................................................................................................................28-30General Rules for Athletes...............................................................................................................................................31

Athletics; AISA Athletic Eligibility; Chambers Academy Athletic Eligibility; Student Insurance;Athletic Pass; Tuition Schedule...............................................................................................................................31

AISA Athletic Eligibility Rules..................................................................................................................................32-37

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Chambers AcademyEst. 1969

15048 US Highway 431LaFayette, AL 36862

Administration (334) 864-9852Athletic Facilities (334) 864-8242Early Learning Center (334) 864-7211Cafeteria (334) 864-0197Fax (334) 864-9691

Alma Mater

Centered in the heart of Dixie,land where my heart will stay,

Proudly stands our Alma Mater,home of the blue and gray.

Sons and daughters sought her knowledgeand went forth to meet life’s test,

Loyal may we strive to honorgoals and truths we now profess.

Enter to learn, go forth to serve,let us forever be

Faithful to this lesson learnedat Chambers Academy.

-Bryan King

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MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Chambers Academy is to provide our students with an exceptional education in a Christian environment, including experiences that prepare them for a journey of lifelong learning. We aspire to develop in our students a strong moral foundation and intellectual ability to prepare them for the challenges of adulthood.

OBJECTIVES AND BELIEFS

To develop our students to be lifelong learners.

To hold our students, faculty, and staff to high expectations of moral standards.

To employ certified and quality teachers.

To foster and maintain a safe and nurturing environment.

To offer a college and career preparatory curriculum.

To provide blended learning opportunities to appeal to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners.

To provide clubs and extracurricular activities to enhance student learning.

To maintain a competitive and affordable tuition program.

To remain committed to continuous improvement.

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ACCREDITATION

Chambers Academy, established in 1969, is a private school accredited by both AdvancED (SACS CASI) and the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA). Chambers Academy offers students a quality educational opportunity, including an advanced academic curriculum. Instruction is offered for students from Kindergarten through 12th Grade with an accompanying Early Learning Center that serves children from Infancy to K-4. All instructional personnel meet AdvancED and AISA certification requirements.

PURPOSE

The purpose of Chambers Academy is to provide a superior education. At CA, we promote academic excellence as well as social growth and development of our students.

CA provides an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and employs a well-qualified faculty. The athletic and extracurricular programs are designed to complement and strengthen the academic program. Every student is provided with the opportunity to be involved in a school activity outside the classroom.

FACILITIES

Physical facilities at Chambers Academy include instructional classrooms; a computer lab; a science laboratory; a library; a cafeteria; administrative, coaching, and counseling offices; a gymnasium; a daycare facility; a playground area; a basketball/volleyball court; a football field; a baseball field; a softball field; and a parking lot. Busses are provided to assist in the transportation of students for field trips and athletics.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman – Stephen SheppardVice Chairman – David HowardSecretary – Tammy MorganTreasurer – Robert SandersMembers Travis Allen Calvin Milford

Matthew Brown Mark MitchamApril Fuller Michelle MitchamJessica Hendricks Josh PhillipsKyle Jackson Mack WaldropKeith Kite

Board members are elected to serve a three-year term. Officers of the Board are elected annually.

The Chambers Academy Board of Directors meets a minimum of one time monthly.

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FACULTY AND STAFF

AdministrationHeadmaster David OwenAssistant Headmaster Jon OwensCounselor Emily MilfordOffice Manager Sheila Carter

Support StaffMedia Specialist Merit SimsTechnical Support John GranadeMaintenance Eddie WilliamsCafeteria Manager Kerri ReeseCafeteria Assistant Janet Ison

Elementary SchoolKindergarten Leanna HamerFirst Grade Norma HydeSecond Grade Ruth BassThird Grade Yvonne FlannaryFourth Grade David BelserFifth Grade Deborah HamerSixth Grade Jeff Hines

High SchoolEnglish/Language Arts Leverne DavisMathematics Merry Abney; Regenia BarningerPhysical Education Dillon NesSmithScience Brandi Fuller; Kim SlaySocial Studies Tom Garrett; Trey FetnerWorld Languages Lacey Gullage

Athletics and CoachingAthletic Director Jason AllenBaseball Dillon NesSmithBasketball (Boys) Jason AllenBasketball (Girls) Jeff HinesCheerleading Emily MilfordFootball Jason AllenSoftball Jon OwensVolleyball Randy Bonds

Early Learning CenterDirector Lauren OsborneInfants April PhillipsToddlers June Lindsey K-3 Harley ThomastonK-4 Meredith Sasser

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ADMISSIONS AND ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES

Chambers Academy admits students of any race, color, national, or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school. CA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origins in administration of its educational policies,admissions practices, athletic, or other school administered programs.

1. A parent/guardian must complete an application and pay the registration fee prior to admission consideration.

2. The K-4 class is designed for children who are four years old prior to September 1. The K-5 class (traditional Kindergarten) is designed for students who are five years old prior to September 1.

3. Applicants for the first grade must be six years old prior to September 1 of the entering school year. No child shall enter the first grade for the first time after the end of the first six weeks of school unless approved by the Headmaster.

4. Any exceptions to the age rules above will require the approval of all affected teachers, parents, and theHeadmaster.

5. Students older than eighteen years of age may enroll at CA only upon approval of the Headmaster. Students must be younger than nineteen years of age before the beginning of the scholastic year to be considered for admission. If approved for admission, student must maintain satisfactory academic progress or be subjected to dismissal.

6. The following documents must be on file prior to admission: (a) official birth certificate copy; (b) socialsecurity card copy; (c) current Alabama immunization form; and (d) official transcript and other academic records from the student’s former school.

7. All applicants must be interviewed by the Headmaster.

8. After all requirements have been met by the applicant and the interview has been held, the application will be reviewed by the Headmaster. Following this evaluation, the applicant and his/her parents will be notified as to the acceptance or rejection of the application.

9. Admission of students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan from a public school shall be permitted only if the administration determines that they are able to provide all necessary resources to meet the special needs of the student.

10. Upon acceptance, all first-time students begin a nine-week probationary period. During that time, the student’s attendance, academic record, and behavior will be carefully monitored by administration.

DELINQUENT ACCOUNT POLICY

Effective with the 2019-2020 school year, the Chambers Academy Board adopted a Delinquent Account Policy. Tuition collection attempts through Facts Management Tuition or the CA office are made beginning on either the 10th or the 20th of each month, depending on whether tuition is set-up for payment on a quarterly or monthly schedule. Facts Management Tuition will re-attempt to collect 10 days after any failed collection attempt. If families refuse to use Facts Management Tuition, they will be expected to remain current through payments made with the CA Office Manager.

Delinquent AccountsIt is the family’s responsibility to contact the Chambers Academy Headmaster or Office Manager and be proactive in their tuition management plan. Contact can be made via phone, e-mail, or in person.

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1 st Failed Collection Attempt The family will receive a generated email if a payment is not collected on the first attempt for any given month during the payment cycle. No further contact with the family will be made unless there is a problematic payment history as determined collectively by the CA Office Manager and Headmaster.

2 nd Failed Collection Attempt/1 st Failed Collection Attempt with Problematic History/One (1) Month Behind on PaymentsIn addition to the above email, the family will be requested to visit the school to sign a letter documenting thefailed collection attempt, disclosing the amount due to the school, and acknowledging receipt of the Delinquent Account Policy.

The following will be in effect:1. Until an agreement for account resolution is reached, all students in the family may not participate in

extracurricular activities or be considered a part of a CA sports team, regardless if infraction occurs after an activity/season has begun. This includes, but is not limited to, trips, sports practices, camps, tournaments, sports team manager or otherwise, theatre, academic competitions, class field trips, graduation ceremonies, Student Council, SGA trips, and high school activities requiring overnight stay. Students will be allowed to participate in class trips that are part of class work for a grade.

2. School records (including, but not limited to, diplomas, schedules, transcripts, report cards, and test information) will not be released until the outstanding balance is paid in full. The student’s Renweb and (if applicable) Facts Student Information System account will be deactivated.

3 rd Failed Collection Attempt/Two (2) Months Behind on Payments 1. The family will be contacted by the school and a meeting will be set to occur within one week between

the family and the Headmaster.2. All sanctions in prior section (2nd Failed Attempt/Problematic History) will be enforced.3. All students in the family will be placed on academic leave and not allowed to be on campus until an

agreement for account resolution is reached or the delinquent portion is paid in full.4. If paid in full within five (5) school days and the case is reviewed and approved by the Board, absences

will be “excused”. School work will be subject to policy covering same as found in Student Handbook.

4 th Failed Collection Attempt/Three (3) Months Behind on Payments All students in the family will be withdrawn from Chambers Academy. No records will be released until the account is paid in full.

ATTENDANCE POLICIES

Arrival and DepartureStudents should not arrive on campus before 7:15 a.m. each day. Upon arrival, students must enter the building. There is to be no unsupervised play outside, either before or after school.

Parents are required to pick-up students by 3:00 p.m. Chambers Academy will not be responsible for childrenleft at school after 3:15 p.m. unless they are enrolled in the after school day-care program or involved in supervised extracurricular activities.

General Attendance PoliciesEducational research has long shown a direct correlation between academic performance and regular attendance. With that knowledge in mind, it will be the policy of Chambers Academy to assign a failing grade to students who are absent more than ten (10) days from a class during a semester. Students who exceed the ten days will be given an opportunity to make-up hours in a manner prescribed by the administration.

Students absent from school for an extended period of time due to a serious accident or illness will be discussed and decided upon by the administration on a case-by-case basis. Absences from school will be classified as excused or unexcused.

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According to the State of Alabama, excused absences include the following:

1. Pupil too ill to attend school.2. Inclement weather which would be dangerous to the life or health of the child if he/she attended school.3. Legal quarantine.4. Death in the immediate family.5. Emergency condition as determined by the Headmaster.6. Pupil absent from school with permission of the Headmaster and consent of the parent.

When a student returns to school after an unplanned absence, he/she should bring a written note to the office stating the date(s) of absence, reason for the absence, and parent/guardian signature. The note will be filed in the office and the absence will be coded as excused or unexcused. “ALL ABSENCES WILL BE UNEXCUSED UNLESS STUDENTS BRING THE REQUIRED NOTE FROM HOME THE NEXT DAY AFTER THE ABSENCE.”

Any planned absence must be approved by the Headmaster at least one (1) week prior to the absence. The student should bring a note from the parent/guardian stating the reason for the absence and the date(s). The Headmaster will review the circumstances and notify the student and parent/guardian as to whether the absence will be excused or unexcused.

Absences for students participating in school sponsored activities will be school-excused and will not affect exemptions from final exams.

Make-Up Work for Excused AbsencesStudents with an excused absence will be allowed to complete missed work within three (3) days of their return to school. In the case of an extended absence, more time will be granted for completion of make-up work, but all arrangements should be made within three (3) days of return to school. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements and see that all missed work is turned in. Students with an unexcused/unapproved absence will receive zeros for all work missed during the absence.

TruancyTruancy cannot be tolerated. Parents of Chambers Academy students have a right to expect CA personnel to closely monitor attendance. Truancy will be dealt with firmly and can lead to suspension or expulsion.

Class AttendanceStudents are required to attend all classes. Teachers are required to check attendance at the beginning of each class. If a student is given permission to miss a class, the teacher must be informed in writing. If a student needs to leave class temporarily, permission must be obtained from the teacher.

Student Check-OutsPermission to leave campus, for any reason, must be secured from the office. Students desiring to check-out early must bring written parental permission to the office at the beginning of the school day. The student will receive a checkout form to be signed by an administrator and the classroom teachers of classes to be missed. The form will indicate whether the absence is excused or unexcused, which determines whether missed work can be made up or zeros will be given. Prior to departure from campus, the student must also complete the sign-out sheet in the office.

Parents coming to campus to check-out a student should report to the office.

NOTE: Telephone checkouts will not be accepted. The student must have prior written permission to check-out or have the physical presence of a parent/guardian in order to leave campus. Cases of dire emergency or illness will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

If a student becomes sick, he/she should report to the office for parents to be contacted.

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Student Check-InsIf a student returns to campus after missing part of the day, he/she should complete the sign-in sheet in the office and obtain an admittance slip before reporting to class. The student will provide the slip to the teacher for admittance to class.

TardiesWhile each of us is occasionally tardy for some event, continued and habitual tardiness represents a lack of personal discipline. Each high school student will be allowed three (3) tardies for each nine-weeks grading period. Upon the fourth tardy, the student will be assigned detention. Since three (3) tardies are allowed without consequence, there will be no distinction between excused and unexcused tardies. No more than six (6) tardies will be allowed for elementary students per nine-weeks grading period.

Excessive tardiness (per class period) will be handled as follows:4th Tardy of the Nine-Weeks: 3 Days Break Detention5th Tardy of the Nine-Weeks: 1 Hour After-School Detention6th Tardy of the Nine-Weeks: 1 Hour After-School Detention7th Tardy of the Nine-Weeks: 1 Hour Before-School Detention8th Tardy of the Nine-Weeks: 1 Day SuspensionAny Additional Tardies: Penalty to be determined by the Headmaster during student/parent conference.

STUDENT CONDUCT

Your RecordEvery day that you live you are making a record. You should be conscious that this record becomes synonymous with your name. The working world has learned through experience that a complete school record of your scholarship, activity, and citizenship gives valuable information in evaluating your ability and fitness to do a certain job. Your school record is a link in your life that will be examined many times through the years by those concerned about you and your future. Remember that your record is what you make it.

DisciplineDiscipline is necessary to instill the fundamental lessons of self-control. The student grows in character as he/she becomes more aware of the consequences of his/her decisions. The foundation of this school is based on the theory that students should be capable of conducting themselves in accordance with the accepted standards of behavior.

Students are not permitted to be absent from school or repeatedly tardy without a legitimate excuse. A no tolerance policy is in effect with regards to using tobacco products, gambling, or using profane language at school. The conduct of a student should not interfere with others; rather, it should be an example to others.

All students are subject to supervision and correction by all faculty members of Chambers Academy. Rudeness or disrespect toward any CA faculty or staff member will not be tolerated.

BehaviorStudents at Chambers Academy are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner. The following guidelines are in place for specific situations:

During Assembly Programs Enter the gym in an orderly manner. Remain quiet and attentive during the presentation. Refrain from bringing food and/or drinks to assembly presentations. Failure to follow assembly procedures may result in your removal.During Break and Lunch Be respectful of others at all times. Breaking in line is not allowed. Use your best table manners and leave your area clean.

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Dispose of all garbage in proper containers. Remain in the cafeteria at all times unless prior permission has been granted.In the Classroom Teachers will set the expectations for each class. Students should not question the authority of the teacher. Students will remain respectful of the teacher and fellow classmates. Students should report to class with the expectation of learning and working the entire class period.In the Library Students will have frequent access to the library. Students will respect the library as a quiet learning zone. Students will handle all materials, including books, with care. Students will follow procedures set forth by the Librarian.In the Hallway Keep to the right of the hallway at all times. Avoid loud talking, whistling, loitering, running, pushing, crowding, etc. Be respectful of others.

Cell Phones and Communication DevicesThe administration of Chambers Academy recognizes the practical uses of cell phones in the 21st century. Theadministration further recognizes that there are valid uses for cell phones for both personal and educational use. The following cell phone policy will address responsible use of cell phones at CA:

Students in Grades 7-12 are allowed to use cell phones before and after school, during the change of classes, during break, and during lunch. Cell phones are not to be used during class time, unless specifically allowed by the teacher for educational purposes.

Cell phone misconduct will be handled as follows:1st Offense: (1) Phone will be confiscated and turned in to the office.

(2) Phone may be retrieved at the end of the school day.

2nd Offense: (1) Phone will be confiscated and turned in to the office.(2) Parent/Guardian must retrieve the phone.

3rd Offense: (1) Phone will be confiscated and turned in to the office.(2) Phone will be held by school administration for a period of one (1) week.(3) Parent/Guardian must retrieve the phone.

Additional Offenses: Penalty to be determined by the Headmaster after a student/parent conference.

Social Media and BloggingThe students of Chambers Academy will be held to the highest standard regarding anything posted to social media during school hours and/or during school activities. Content posted to social media during school hours and/or school activities that is deemed inappropriate, distasteful, or disrespectful is not permitted. Any student involved with the post will be subject to disciplinary action. The administration reserves the right to confiscate any student’s cell phone and/or digital device during school hours to search such device(s) for inappropriate content or materials.

Students should also refrain from posting anything to social media outside of school hours that would disruptthe educational process. Disciplinary action may be taken if social media behavior disrupts the educational process.

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The following guidelines are expected to be followed when members of the school community (students, faculty, administrators, or staff) are representing Chambers Academy in social media spaces, regardless of whether these are considered professional or personal spaces.

Use Good Judgment We expect good judgment in all situations. Behave in a way that will make you and others proud and

reflect well on the school. Know and follow the school’s Community of Respect and Responsible Computer Use Policy. Regardless of your privacy settings, assume that all of the information you have shared on your social

network is public information.

Be Respectful Always treat others in a respectful, positive, and considerate manner.

Be Responsible and Ethical Share and interact in a way that will enhance your reputation, the reputation of others, and the

reputation of the school, rather than damage them. Stay Away from Inappropriate Posts.

Be a Good Listener Keep in mind that one of the biggest benefits of social media is that it gives others another way to

talk to you, ask questions directly, and share feedback.

Be Accurate and Appropriate A significant part of the interaction on blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and other social networks involves

passing on interesting content or sharing links to helpful resources. However, never blindly repost a link without looking at the content first.

And if you don’t get it right... Be sure to correct any mistake you make immediately, and make it clear what you’ve done to

fix the mistake. Apologize for the mistake if the situation warrants it.

Respect Private and Personal Information To ensure your safety, be careful about the type and amount of personal information you provide. Avoid talking about personal schedules or situations. Always respect the privacy of school community members.

Post Images with Care Respect brand, trademark, copyright information and/or images of the school.

Bullying/CyberbullyingBullying can threaten students’ physical and emotional safety at school and can negatively impact their ability to learn. Acts of bullying will not be tolerated at Chambers Academy. Students found in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline.

LockersLockers will be assigned to each student in Grades 7-12 during the first week of school. Students are responsible for keeping their books or supplies in the places assigned and should report any unsatisfactory conditions of the lockers to the office. Students are responsible for closing their locker after each locker visit. Students who choose to lock their locker will provide the office with a duplicate key or combination.

Food and DrinksNo food or drinks will be allowed outside the lunchroom except on pre-approved occasions. No food or drinks will be allowed in the classrooms with the exception of water. Ample time is provided at break and

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lunch for student nutrition. Students who bring outside breakfast food to school must finish it before the firstmorning bell and properly dispose of their trash. Students are prohibited from leaving campus to obtain food or drinks.

Drugs and AlcoholChambers Academy does not condone the use, possession, sale, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco by its students. Engaging in such activity on the school grounds or at school-sponsored activities away from the Chambers Academy campus will be grounds for severe disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. “On school grounds” means the sidewalks, streets, and areas adjacent to the school property or in sight of school property. “School-sponsored activity” refers to any event on campus or off campus where Chambers Academy students are participating and/or in attendance representing the school.

Possession and/or use of drugs or alcohol products: No student may provide to any other student, by sale or any other means, any substance that is represented to be a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimulant, inhalant, legal drug, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. No student may possess, use, or be under the influence of any substance which is, or the student has reason to believe is, or which has been represented to be a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimulate, legend drug, depressant, inhalant, or intoxicant of any kind, or any kind that closely resembles, or is represented to be any of the above items.

Administration reserves the right to search any locker, automobile, person, or personal belongings, including communication/digital devices, on the campus at any time. Drug dogs or other special search strategies may be used as deemed appropriate by administration.

Tobacco, E-Cigarettes, Vapor, or Other Vapor Related ProductsThe possession and/or use of tobacco products, vapor, e-cigarettes, or other vapor related products of any kind is strictly prohibited by Chambers Academy students on campus or at any school function, athletic or other, whether on or off school property. Possession includes on the person, in the locker, in vehicles, or in other effects of a student.

Possession of Cigarettes, Lighters, or Chewing Tobacco: a minimum out-of-school suspension of three (3) days will be assigned to students holding a lighted cigarette/cigar/etc., inhaling or exhaling the smoke of tobacco, or using any other tobacco products.

Possession of Vapor, E-Cigarettes, or Other Related Vapor Products: due to the fact that THC oil can be utilized in a vape, students caught in possession of and/or using vapes, e-cigarettes, or other vapor related products such as vape cartridge refills nicotine oil, etc. will receive a minimum out-of-school suspension of 5 days and be subject to drug testing at the parent’s expense.

Student Drug Testing for Reasonable SuspicionDrug testing for reasonable suspicion shall apply to all students enrolled at Chambers Academy in Grades 7-12. School administrators are authorized by the Board to require any student to submit to a chemical test of the student’s breath or urine if the administration has “reasonable suspicion” that the student is using or is under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances, and/or illegal drugs while on school grounds; off school grounds at a school activity, function, event or any other school sponsored activity; or when traveling to or from school by school sponsored transportation.

Reasonable suspicion may arise from the following: (1) A student’s behavior, in conjunction with physical appearance, actions, and/or odor, indicating the possibility that the student has used or is in possession of alcohol, marijuana, or any illegal substance; (2) The student possesses drug paraphernalia, alcohol, marijuana, or any other controlled substance; (3) Information communicated by a source to an administrator indicating astudent is using, possessing, or under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any other illegal substance, and/or (4) If a drug task force canine unit hits on a student vehicle or personal belongings. Any such report will beinvestigated by the school’s administration and any of the above scenarios can result in the student being subjected to drug testing.

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Refusal to submit to drug testing and/or cooperate with the school administration will result in immediate suspension from school pending due process and a disciplinary hearing. All information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda, and test results, either written or otherwise, pertaining to alcohol and drug testing are confidential communications.

Laser LightsLaser lights are specifically prohibited at school and school functions. Any laser light confiscated will not be returned. Any student caught with a laser light at a ball game will be asked to leave.

WeaponsNo weapons of any kind will be allowed on school grounds at any time. This includes, but is not limited to, firearms and knives. Any student with weapons on campus will be subject to suspension or possible expulsion.

Threats, Physical Harm, or Threatened Physical HarmThe school Headmaster can notify appropriate law enforcement officials when a person violates board policies concerning weapons, physical harm to a person, or threatened physical harm to a person. If any criminal charge is warranted, the administration is authorized to sign the appropriate warrant. If that person isa student, Chambers Academy shall immediately suspend that person from attending regular classes and schedule a disciplinary hearing within five (5) school days.

GamblingGambling will not be tolerated by students at Chambers Academy on the campus or at school-related events. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action.

Forgery of NotesAny student caught forging a signature or using a forged signature for any reason will be subject to disciplinary action.

StealingIf a student is found guilty of stealing school or individual property, the penalty is immediate suspension and possible expulsion by the Board.

Lost or Damaged Textbooks/Library BooksStudents are responsible for all textbooks and library books issued to them. Lockers are provided for the storage of books when not in use. Books on the floor, on benches, on top of lockers, etc. will be picked up for safe-keeping. Students will be responsible for the replacement cost of any textbooks and/or library books.All debts incurred for lost or damaged textbooks/library books must be settled prior to student being allowedto take semester exams.

Married Students, Pregnant Students, Students with ChildrenThe Chambers Academy School Board has established a policy that prohibits married students, pregnant students, or students with children from attending Chambers Academy. Students getting married or involved in a pregnancy while enrolled at CA shall be subject to dismissal.

Care of School PropertyChambers Academy students should take pride in the appearance of our school. Visitors judge our school to a great extent by the appearance of the buildings and grounds. Our facilities at CA have been provided at great expense and sacrifice by the stakeholders and patrons of our school. Students should refrain from defacing and/or destroying school property. Paper and waste should be placed in the containers provided for this purpose. Students are encouraged not to be wasteful of restroom supplies. Any student causing damage to school property either intentionally or through neglect will be liable for such damages and face disciplinary action.

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Attire and AppearanceParents are encouraged to take an active part in monitoring the clothing choices, hair styles, shoe safety, personal hygiene, etc. of their Chambers Academy students.

The following dress code has been developed by a committee comprised of parents, students, and faculty. It will not meet every situation; however, it should serve as a handy guide in determining the appropriateness of apparel for school. Clothing manufacturers are motivated by profit not by any desire for young people to dress neatly and in good taste. Hopefully, parents and school personnel can work together to encourage our students to develop clothing styles that are neat, clean, and represent an appropriate sense of decency.

In the event the questionable clothing or appearance is not specifically covered by the following code, the decision of the Headmaster will be final.

DRESS CODE

The following will apply to all students in Grades 4-12: All shirts should cover the abdomen and back and be long enough to tuck in.

Test for Length: Raise arms above head—if abdomen or back is exposed, the top is too short. Shoulder straps on shirts and dresses must be a minimum width of two inches. Shirts and dresses should

have both shoulder straps. Boys’ sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Students should not wear clothing of a revealing nature; no exposed cleavage. Shorts and skirts should be of school-appropriate length, not to exceed six (6) inches above the middle of

the kneecap. On Fridays only, if leggings or tights are worn, the outerwear (shirts/dresses/skirts) must be of

appropriate length. Test for Length: Hold arms at side—length should be no shorter than end of fingertips.

Boys’ slacks must be worn at the waist line – no “slacking”. On Fridays only, sweatpants/athletic pants may be worn if they were purchased thru an athletic team at

CA and include the school logo. Overalls must be fastened as intended by the manufacturer. No pajama pants allowed. Gym or exercise shorts shall not be worn, with the exception of P.E. and/or athletic class. Clothing that is frayed, torn, or ripped that exposes the skin should not be worn at school. Students shall choose clothing that fits properly. Clothing which is too tight or too loose shall not be

worn. Clothing with insignia of alcoholic or tobacco products is strictly prohibited. Clothing which carries “suggestive” writing, logos, pictures, etc. will not be allowed at school. Shoes are to be worn at all times. No cleats may be worn inside the building. This includes the elementary

and breezeway areas. Shoes should be appropriate to the activity and safety—classroom, P.E., science lab, etc. Sunglasses are not appropriate for school without a doctor’s excuse. Hats, caps, and other headgear are not allowed inside the building. No body or cartilage piercing except that females may wear up to two (2) earrings per ear. Hair should be neat, clean, and not disruptive to the educational process. Boys’ hair should not be over the earlobe, below the eyebrows, nor over the collar in the back. No unnatural hair color is allowed. Boys must be clean-shaven at all times. Sideburns should not extend below the bottom of the earlobe. No over-excessive make-up. No visible body art.

Consequences for dress code violation will result in the student being verbally corrected and required to comply with the dress code. Multiple offenses will result in additional discipline.

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Any class time missed due to a dress code violation will be coded as unexcused with no opportunity to make-up missed work.

Special Events Dress CodeAdministration and event sponsors reserve the right to establish an event dress code for formal events and/or field trips. Students representing CA off-campus will be held to a higher standard of attire than while at school.

AISA STUDENT APPEARANCE POLICY

The AISA State dress and appearance policy will apply to ALL AISA Academic and Athletic activities and events.

I. Body ArtA. Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with exposed permanent

body art (tattoos).B. Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with exposed temporary

body art which is insensitive, derogatory and/or deemed inappropriate by state officials. Face painting is not allowed by athletes.

II. Body Decorations/PiercingA. Students may not participate in AISA state level events and/or activities with exposed body

decorations (piercing). Exemption: Females may wear no more than one earring per ear. *Note! No jewelry or body decorations are allowed at any level in AISA athletics.

III. Facial Hair/Hair Styles, etc.A. 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 non-traditional hairstyles deemed inappropriate by state officials.3. Unnatural and/or non-traditional coloration of the hair.

AISA state officials (state events) or the host school head of school (interscholastic events held at a host school) will be the final authority to determine acceptable dress and appearance at AISA events and/or activities. Schools will be fined $250.00 for failure to follow this policy. The host school’s head of school is responsible for reporting the incident in writing to the AISA office with supporting evidence.

Failure to comply at state events may result in student and/or school disqualification by the AISA directors.

NOTE! The direct responsibility to enforce compliance with the above stated policy is delegated to the school’s head of school.

HONOR CODE

Academic cheating is a gross violation of the principles upon which Chambers Academy was founded. Students caught cheating will be dealt with as follows:

1st Offense: (1) Student will be assigned a “0” on the test/assignment/activity/etc.(2) Student is ineligible for the Honor Roll for that nine-weeks grading period.(3) Parent will be notified.

2nd Offense: (1) Student will be assigned a “0” on the test/assignment/activity/etc.(2) Student is ineligible for the Honor Roll for that nine-weeks grading period.(3) Student will be placed on academic probation for the remainder of the school year.(4) Parent will be notified.

Additional offenses will result in potential removal from school.

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EXPULSION AND SUSPENSION

Any student who is a repeat violator of the rules and regulations of Chambers Academy could face suspension and/or expulsion. A student may be dismissed from CA for violations of school rules, poor conduct, or the failure of his/her parent/guardian to discharge all debts to CA. Any student expelled from school will still be expected to settle any incurred debts to Chambers Academy.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Sudents are expected to exert their best effort at all times. CA expects students to achieve academically according to their abilities. A conscious effort should be made to ensure an appropriate balance between academic and extracurricular activities.

Instructional GuidelinesCopies of the daily instructional schedules for students in Grades K-12 can be found on subsequent pages. Six hours of classroom instruction are scheduled each day. In the case of an emergency, a full school day can be counted if school is in session for four hours. Students attend school for a minimum of 175 days, not including holidays or in-service days.

The teacher’s lesson plans will outline the daily lessons. The plans should indicate the basic objective being taught in each class, the appropriate text with page numbers, and any supplementary materials to be used in the presentation, and the classroom and/or homework assignment. Additional guidelines concerning lesson plans are given in the teacher handbook section of the policy manual.Teachers are encouraged to use a variety of instructional and evaluative methods including tests, reports, projects, oral assignments, etc. to determine student progress in mastering the course objectives. Homework is assigned to reinforce the mastery of skills as well as to stimulate creativity and independent study by the student. Homework assignments for students in Grade 7-12 should include projects and reports requiring theuse of the library and other resources for reference work.

The CurriculumThe elementary curriculum is uniform for each child in each grade. A summary of courses is shown on the following pages.

Prior to registration for high school courses, students must decide whether they will pursue the college preparatory or general curriculum program and declare their choice by completing the appropriate form. Courses listed for the chosen curriculum must be taken and passed without exception.

It is recommended that the parents and students meet with the counselor to review grades and test scores andto discuss post-secondary educational plans (college, trade school, etc.) or plans to seek employment before making this decision. In this way, students can be guided in choosing the courses in high school that will prepare them for employment or assist them in gaining admission to the college of their choice. Appointments can be scheduled in April or May for this purpose.

The courses that the student chooses in Grades 9 - 12 must meet the approval of the parents and the headmaster. Students are not permitted to change their schedules without the approval of both. Before the teacher can drop or add a student to the class roll, written authorization from the office accompanied by permission from the parents must be presented by the student. Students may not schedule a required course above their grade level without the headmaster’s approval.

Finally, the Academic Committee, including the headmaster, reviews the curriculum to ensure it is consistent with the school’s philosophy and objectives. Teachers are also involved in the continuing evaluation and evolution of the curriculum to ensure that the scope and sequence of the basic subjects are appropriate withineach grade and from grade to grade.

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THE CURRICULUM

Kindergarten, First GradeSecond Grade, Third GradeLanguage ArtsMathematicsScience/HealthSocial StudiesPhysical Education

Fourth GradeLanguage ArtsMathematicsScience/HealthGeography/AL HistoryPhysical Education

Fifth Grade, Sixth GradeLanguage ArtsMathematicsScience/HealthAmerican HistoryPhysical Education

Seventh GradeGrammar & CompositionMathematicsLife ScienceWorld Geography/CivicsPhysical Education

Eighth GradeEnglish & LiteraturePre-AlgebraEarth ScienceWorld HistoryPhysical Education

In addition to the curriculum stated above, students in Grades K-6 are also assessed for Conduct, Spelling, and Handwriting. Students in Grades 7-8 are offered two additional elective classes: Life Skills and Exploratory Spanish.

GRADING SYSTEM

Teachers are to record numerical grades in the online grading system. Teachers are required to use a variety ofevaluation procedures (i.e., tests, quizzes, oral and written reports, projects, etc.). All earned grades are to be considered in determining the nine-weeks grade.

The semester average will be determined by counting each nine-weeks grade twice and the semester examination grade once.

Grading ScaleKindergarten students will be given grades of S (Satisfactory) or U (Unsatisfactory). This grading system also applies to the 1st Grade students during the initial grading period.

The grading scale for Grades 1-12 is as follows:A 90-100B 80-89C 70-79D 60-69F 0-59I *Incomplete

*Incomplete—Must be approved by Headmaster prior to issuance

Numerical grades are recorded on the report cards, permanent records, and transcripts (if grade level applicable) of all students in Grades 1-12. Letter grades are recorded for Kindergarten.

Progress ReportsA progress report at the 4½ week mark of a grading period will be posted to the RenWeb account for each student. Parents/guardians are encouraged to review the progress report for their child and request a parent-teacher conference if desired.

Nine-Weeks TestsTeachers may elect to administer a nine-weeks exam at the end of the first and/or third grading period. If administered, the nine-weeks exam will count as a test grade.

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Semester ExamsSemester exams will be given at the end of the 1st and 2nd Semester based upon the following guidelines:1. Exams will be given to all students in Grades 7-12.2. A 90-minute testing period will be allocated for all exams.3. A semester exam schedule will be published.4. Students are required to stay a minimum of 60 minutes for each exam. Dismissal after 60 minutes will

only occur if exam is completed.5. No more than two exams will be given per day.6. Semester exams will be comprehensive, teacher-made tests.7. Exams will count as 20% of the student’s final grade for each course.8. All students in Grades 7-12 are required to take 1st Semester exams. No exemptions are allowed.9. Exemption from 2nd Semester exams (per class) may be earned as follows:

a. Student must have earned an “A” grade for 1st Semester Final Grade.b. Student must have earned an “A” grade for both 3rd and 4th nine-weeks grading periods.c. Student must have no more than four (4) absences for the class during the 2nd Semester.

Report CardsA report card will be sent home at the conclusion of each nine-week grading period. Teachers may require that the report card be signed and returned. Parents/guardians should contact the Chambers Academy office if a report card is not received by the dates indicated on the school calendar.

Headmaster’s List/Honor RollStudents who have earned a numeric grade of 90 or above in each class at the end of each nine-week grading period will be recognized for the Headmaster’s List. Students who have earned all “A’s and B’s” in each class at the end of each nine-week grading period will be recognized for the Honor Roll. Both the Headmaster’s List and Honor Roll will be printed in the local newspaper.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS AND DIPLOMA OPTIONS

State of Alabama Department of EducationGraduation Requirements for an Alabama High School Diploma

English Language ArtsFour credits to include English 9, English 10, English 11, and English 12.

4

MathematicsMust include:

Algebra IGeometryAlgebra II

111

4

ScienceMust include:

BiologyPhysical Science

11

4

Social StudiesWorld HistoryU.S. History IU.S. History IIGovernmentEconomics

111.5.5

4

Physical EducationNote: ½ unit of the Physical Education requirement will be the

“Lifetime Sports” curriculum.1

Career Preparedness 1Health .5Computer Science/Foreign Language/Arts Education 3Electives 2.5

TOTAL 24

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Alabama Independent School AssociationGraduation Requirements for an Advanced Honors Diploma

English Language ArtsFour credits to include advanced levels of English 9, English 10, English 11, and English 12.Note: All must incorporate a heavy emphasis on research and writing.

4

MathematicsMust include:

Algebra IGeometry

Must include advanced levels of:Algebra II with TrigonometryPre-Calculus

11

11

4

ScienceMust include advanced levels of:

BiologyPhysical ScienceAnatomy & PhysiologyChemistry

1111

4

Social StudiesWorld HistoryU.S. History IU.S. History IIGovernmentEconomics

111.5.5

4

Physical EducationNote: ½ unit of the Physical Education requirement will be the “Lifetime Sports” curriculum.

1

Foreign LanguageCredits must be sequential (i.e., Spanish 1 and Spanish 2)

2

Health .5Fine Arts .5 Computer Science .5 Service (School and/or Community) .5 Electives 4

TOTAL 25

Diplomas are issued upon the recommendation of the Headmaster with the approval of the Board Chairman.

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HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS

At Chambers Academy, students begin earning high school credits in 9th Grade. One credit is earned per completed course when a passing grade (60 or above) is obtained. Students can earn a total of seven (7) credits per school year. A minimum of six (6) credits must be earned per year to be considered for promotionto the next grade level. Credit for failed required subjects must be earned at the earliest opportunity and prior to graduation.

Transfer StudentsTransfer students from non-AISA member schools enrolling in Grades 10 or 11 must meet at least the minimum Chambers Academy graduation requirements for that particular grade level. Transfer students will only be permitted to enroll in Grade 12 after their transcript and records have been reviewed. The transcript and records of potential Grade 12 students must indicate successful completion of state required and elective courses for graduation at an accredited school and reflect sufficient credits earned through Grade 11 to be considered for admission.

Transfer Student CreditsChambers Academy accepts (as received) grades and credits from other AISA schools, Alabama public schools, and AdvancED accredited schools. Grades and credits earned from non-AdvancED accredited schools or home schools will be subject to challenge. In the event of a challenge, the student will be required to take and pass an end-of-year comprehensive exam in the core curriculum area in the highest grade passed. (Example: A student has completed English 9 at a non-accredited school. The student will take the ChambersAcademy English 9 End-of-Year Exam. If the student scores 60 or above on the exam, he/she will be given credit for English 9 and placed in English 10.) Note: Only core curriculum courses are eligible for challenge. All other courses will be considered for elective credit.

Dual Enrollment CreditsStudents in good academic standing at Chambers Academy are permitted to enroll in dual enrollment courses.Upon successful completion of a dual enrollment class, the student will receive college credit as well as high school credit for the course. The school counselor is available to advise students desiring to enroll in a dual enrollment class.

PROMOTION

Elementary School (Kindergarten thru 6 th Grade) Students who have successfully completed academic work for the grade will be promoted to the next grade. Students who have not made satisfactory progress within the limits of their abilities may be retained. The decision to retain a student will be based upon consideration of academic progress, physical maturity, and emotional maturity. This decision will be made following a conference between the teachers, parents, and the Headmaster. In the event of a disagreement, the decision of the school will be final.

Middle School (7 th and 8 th Grades) Students in Grades 7 or 8 who fail two or more core curriculum courses (English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies) will be retained. With approval of the Headmaster, retained students have the opportunity to earn promotion by satisfactorily completing credit recovery and/or attending summer school. Students failingonly one core curriculum course are strongly encouraged to seek remedial help to ensure mastery of the subject and prevent a repeat failure in the subject.

High School (9 th thru 12 th Grades) The grade level for students in Grades 9-12 will be determined based on the number of credits a student has earned. The following classification system will be used:

1. To be classified as a Sophomore (10th Grader), a student must have a minimum of six (6) credits.2. To be classified as a Junior (11th Grader), a student must have a minimum of twelve (12) credits.

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3. To be classified as a Senior (12th Grader), a student must have a minimum of eighteen (18) credits and must be on track to graduate during that academic year.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

All students in Grades 9-12 are required to obtain twenty (20) hours of documented community service per year to fulfill the service learning requirement for the high school curriculum. Note: Students seeking the Advanced Honors Diploma will receive a total of ½ credit for this requirement.

STANDARDIZED TESTING

Chambers Academy will administer a variety of standardized assessments for students in the various grade levels. Results from all standardized assessments will be shared with students, parents, teachers, and administrators.

The ACT with Writing will be administered to all students in Grades 11 and 12. Students are also encouraged to consider taking the SAT College Board entrance exam. The school counselor can provide additional information about the SAT program.

The SAT-10 will be administered to all students in Grades 1-8.

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) will be administered to all students in Grades 11 and 12. The ASVAB provides information about the abilities of the individual student and identifies types of training, civilian, or military careers that require these aptitudes. The ASVAB is also a good indicator of the student’s suitability for additional formal education (college or technical school).

Seventh grade students who meet the established criteria may participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program (TIP) which recognizes gifted students.

Score reports for all standardized assessments will be filed in the students’ permanent record folder. The school score reports will be filed in a locked filing cabinet in the records room.

The school counselor is available to interpret the students’ performance on all standardized assessments and to suggest remedial and/or additional diagnostic procedures.

The Headmaster reports the results of the testing program to the Board. The results are also used by the Headmaster to evaluate the total school program and to make recommendations to the Academic Committeeregarding changes to the curriculum.

PERMANENT RECORD FOLDERS

A permanent record folder is kept on file indefinitely for all students that attend and/or graduate from Chambers Academy. Items typically kept in the permanent record folder include the academic record, official birth certificate, social security card copy, immunization record, medical records (if applicable), and any other information pertinent to the educational process.

Permanent records are confidential and housed in a locked cabinet in the records room. Access to the recordsroom is restricted to office personnel. Permanent records are not allowed out of the secure area. All information contained in the permanent record folders is the property of Chambers Academy. No student records will be released without a signed consent from the student and/or parent (while the child is under theage of 18). No student records will be released until all financial obligations to the school have been met.

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HONORS AND AWARDS

Award Ceremonies will be held in May of each school year for all grade levels. Below is the criteria for the high school and senior awards.

High School Awards CriteriaGeneral Awards1. Headmaster’s List—recognizes students who maintained a 90 or higher average for each class during

each nine-week grading period.2. Honor Roll—recognizes students who maintained at least an 80 average for each class during each

nine-week grading period.3. Perfect Attendance—recognizes students who have been present each school day for the entire school

year with no more than two (2) tardies total per semester.4. AISA District and State Awards—recognizes winners in the Alabama Independent School Association

(AISA) district and state academic competitions. Such competitions include the Science Fair, Scholars Bowl, Spelling Bee, Art Show, Drama, or Math.

5. Southern Union Mathematics Tournament Participant Awards—recognizes the students who are chosen to participate. To be chosen to participate, students must have the highest average in the represented mathematics classes and/or a qualifying math score on the ACT.

6. Boys’ and Girls’ State Participant Awards—recognizes students chosen by an American Legion Committee to attend the respective programs.

7. Hugh O’Brian Foundation Leadership Award—recognizes the student in Grade 10 that has been selected to attend the respective conference. To be considered for selection, the student must have submitted the best application as judged by the faculty.

8. Duke University Talent Identification Program (TIP)—recognizes the students in Grade 7 who scored at the 97th or higher percentile on the Stanford Achievement Test and met all other criteria for the respective program.

9. Lon Torbert Award—recognizes the student in Grade 10, 11, or 12 with the highest overall average forthe current school year in the advanced honors curriculum.

10. William Holliday Award—awarded to the student in Grade 11 who best exhibits the qualities of respect, dignity, and loyalty.

11. Chris Adams Award—presented to the student who has overcome adversity through courage and determination.

12. Highest Average Awards—presented to the student(s) in Grades 7 thru 12 with the highest average in each academic class.

13. Outstanding Student Council Member Award—recognizes the student chosen by vote of the Student Council members for the current school year.

14. Outstanding Beta Club Member Award—recognizes the student chosen by vote of the Beta Club members for the current school year.

15. Scholars’ Bowl Team Awards—presented to the members of the Scholar’s Bowl team for the current school year.

Senior AwardsAlthough seniors may receive general awards, the following awards are restricted to students of Senior Status in Grade 12:

1. Individual Scholarship Recipient Awards—recognizes seniors who have been awarded scholarships for postsecondary education coursework.

2. Outstanding Southern Union Senior Awards—recognizes three (3) seniors chosen by class rank to attend the Honors Banquet hosted by Southern Union State Community College.

3. Senior Valedictorian Award—recognizes the senior student in the advanced honors curriculum with the highest overall numerical average from Grades 9-12. To be eligible for this award, the student must have been a student at Chambers Academy for the past two (2) consecutive years. The average for this award will be calculated at the end of the third nine-weeks grading period.

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4. Senior Salutatorian Award—recognizes the senior student in the advanced honors curriculum with the second highest overall numerical average from Grades 9-12. To be eligible for this award, the student must have been a student at Chambers Academy for the past two (2) consecutive years. The average for this award will be calculated at the end of the third nine-weeks grading period.

5. AISA Scholar/Athlete Awards—recognizes one senior male student and one senior female student who have demonstrated both academic and athletic excellence.

6. Dr. Richard Lowe Citizenship Award—awarded to the senior student who exhibits good behavior, respects others, and displays the values that America was built upon. This award is selected by the high school faculty.

7. Billie Anne Tucker Award—recognizes one senior male student and one senior female student who have excelled on the Drama Team.

8. Stevie Adams Award—recognizes one senior male student who has demonstrated the most school spirit. This award is selected by the coaches.

9. Carla Blackmon Award—recognizes one senior female student who has demonstrated the most school spirit. This award is selected by the coaches.

10. Bo Clark Award—recognizes the senior athlete who best represents Chambers Academy. Five nominees are chosen by faculty vote of the high school teachers. The recipient is selected by a vote of the Booster Club officers and the coaches.

11. Jeremy Smith Award—recognizes the senior student who has served as a goodwill ambassador, is non-judgmental, relates well to other students, and has displayed school spirit.

12. Mark Stephens Award—recognizes the senior male student who demonstrates the most sportsmanshipin basketball. This award is selected by the basketball coach.

13. Mr. & Miss Chambers Academy—recognizes the senior male and senior female students who best represent the values of Chambers Academy. Three male and three female nominees are chosen by the faculty. From those nominees, one male student and one female student are chosen by students in Grades 9-12. Candidates for this award must have been students at Chambers Academy for a minimumof two (2) years prior to the start of the senior year.

14. Yearbook Awards—presented to the Editor and Business Manager of the Yearbook Staff.

VEHICLES ON CAMPUS

Chambers Academy will not be liable for vehicles and/or their contents at any time while on school grounds. Only licensed drivers will be allowed to drive vehicles on campus. Students are not to return to vehicles at anytime during the day without permission from the office. All drivers should observe posted speed limits and pedestrian right-of-ways. No loud music is allowed on campus. Parking spaces should be used properly.

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCEDURE

When more than 200 people are assembled at one site for 175 days with our most prized possessions (our students) the center of attention, some conflict and disagreement is inevitable. In such a situation, it is absolutely necessary that all parties remember we are part of the Chambers Academy “Family”. We must all keep our emotions in check and pursue a reasonable solution to whatever problem exists.

School conflict should be solved at the lowest possible level. If a problem exists between a parent and a teacher, the first attempt at resolution should be a parent/teacher conference. If the parent and teacher are unable to resolve the conflict, a parent/Headmaster conference should follow. If that conference also fails to resolve the problem, the parent will be referred to the Board of Directors Education Committee. Should the parties fail to reach a solution with the Board of Directors Education Committee, the parent may request a hearing before the entire Board of Directors.

Hopefully, such situations will be rare. We must remember we are all working for the same thing—a quality education for our quality students.

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MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

Daily AnnouncementsDaily announcements of general school interest will be made at a designated time each school day. All announcements must be approved by the Headmaster, including non-school activity announcements. Announcements for meetings should be made a minimum of one (1) day in advance. Special or emergency announcements will be made by intercom on an as-needed basis.

The Headmaster must also approve posters and/or flyers prior to them being displayed on the school campus.

Break and LunchThe Chambers Academy lunchroom offers a variety of breakfast foods for students at the morning break andhot lunches daily. Students have the option to purchase breakfast and/or lunch each day. Students may elect to pay daily, but are encouraged to put money on their lunch account to avoid daily payment. Every effort is made to hold lunchroom prices as low as possible. Lunchroom prices may change as needed due to increased fuel and grocery prices.

First AidBasic first aid supplies (Band-Aids, tape, antiseptic spray, etc.) are available in the school office. Tylenol can only be administered with the consent of a parent/guardian. Documentation, including student signature, of supplies/medication administered will be kept in the office.

Lost and FoundAll articles found in or about the school building or grounds should be turned in to the office. Articles will bekept for approximately six (6) weeks and then donated to charity. Chambers Academy will not be responsible for unclaimed items.

RestroomsAdequate restroom, lavatory, and water cooler facilities are placed throughout the building. Students should make every effort to keep the facilities orderly and not be wasteful of supplies.TelephoneIn emergency situations, students are allowed to use the office telephone after obtaining office personnel permission.

Messages to students from parents/guardians will be conveyed at the earliest opportunity.

VisitorsAll visitors should check-in thru the school office. Student visitors must be approved by the Headmaster in advance.

Emergency/Safety DrillsEmergency and safety drills have been developed for various situations which might impact students and personnel safety. These drills (fire, tornado, intruder, etc.) will be taught to students and practiced on a regularbasis.

PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Responsibility to StudentsParents should take an active interest in all activities in which their children are involved. This should include a continuing knowledge of the academic qualifications and achievements of each child. Parents should use RenWeb to actively monitor the academic progress of their children.

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Responsibility to TeachersParents should make an effort to know and communicate with each child’s teachers and be willing to discuss any problems that may arise which directly affect the learning process of that pupil. Parents should not request the release of a child from the classroom unless it is for a valid reason. Parents should respect the authority of the teacher and cooperate whenever possible.

Responsibility to the SchoolParents should make every effort to be informed concerning all aspects of Chambers Academy and be available whenever possible to support all programs designed to maintain and improve CA as an educational institution. As part of your commitment to CA, each family agrees to provide 24 work assessment hours or the equivalent of $480 per school year.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS

Extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations were formed to afford students a means of putting into practice the things that lie beyond the ordinary scope of the curriculum and classroom. The purpose of these activities at Chambers Academy is to increase fellowship and cooperation among groups of similar interest, tobroaden the interest of students in different areas, to motivate and enrich classroom work, and to develop worthy social ideals, attitudes, and habits.

Students involved in extracurricular activities must meet all AISA requirements. Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege, not a right. Privileges will be suspended for those students not meeting satisfactory academic progress.

Yearbook StaffThe Yearbook Staff is comprised of students in Grades 10, 11, and 12. The Chambers Academy yearbook, The Panacea, is published annually and funded by ad sales and yearbook sales. Through pictures, The Panacea records important events that happen throughout the school year and also features the student body, faculty, staff, clubs/organizations, and athletic teams.

Scholars BowlChambers Academy sponsors two Scholars Bowl teams: a Senior Scholars Bowl team and a Middle School Scholars Bowl team. Members of both teams will be chosen through a written exam administered during the first two weeks of school. Former team members must re-qualify each year. The top eight scorers in each category will be chosen as the preliminary teams. Special provisions will be made for students in 6 th and 9th grades. Up to four students from each of these grades will be accepted and considered a part of the team as long as satisfactory progress is demonstrated in practice.

Any student who makes an “F” in any subject for a grading period will be automatically suspended from the team for the remainder of the academic year. Team sponsors have total authority to discipline team members (up to and including suspension) for any disciplinary problems encountered.

Chambers Academy participates in the various district and state competitions sponsored by the AISA. Such competitions are held in art, mathematics, spelling, drama, scholars bowl, and business technology. Student participation is encouraged. Grades included, dates, and other specifics are announced as needed.

Student Government Association (SGA)The Student Government Association (SGA) is an organization made up of student representatives to promote cooperation between the faculty and student body; to promote the high ideals of scholarship, citizenship, and honor; and to assist in the orderly operation of the school. The SGA officers will meet periodically with the Headmaster to communicate any academic/other concerns of students in Grades 7-12. The SGA sponsors the following projects: Miss Panacea Beauty Pageant and Veteran’s Day Memorial Program.

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Pep ClubThe Pep Club is made up of students in Grades 7-12. The purpose of the Pep Club is to provide support to the athletic teams at Chambers Academy.

CheerleadingChambers Academy sponsors two Cheerleading teams: Varsity and Junior Varsity. Cheerleaders are selected thru a tryout process. In order for a candidate to be eligible to tryout for cheerleader, the student must be enrolled at Chambers Academy before the end of the 1st Semester grading period. Tryouts are typically held early in the second semester to select cheerleaders for the following school year. Tryouts are judged by three independent judges. Once the judges scores are totaled, the candidates with the highest qualifying scores will be named to the squad.

Beta ClubBeta Club is an honor organization created for the purpose of service to both the school and the community. Students invited to join Beta Club will be of worthy, moral, and ethical character; display creditable achievement, and possess a commendable attitude. To attain membership in the Beta Club, a student must beperforming on or above grade level and have an 88 or higher average in core academic curriculum courses based on the last semester of the previous school year and the first nine-weeks of the current school year. To remain in good standing, Beta Club members must maintain an 88 or higher average in core academic curriculum courses each nine-week grading period. If the average of a member falls below 88, the member will be put on probation for a period of nine weeks. Beta Club membership will be revoked should the member not have an 88 or higher average at the end of probation. Revoked membership in Beta Club can be regained the following academic year if the former member once again meets the membership requirements. The Beta Club Induction Ceremony is typically held during the 1st Semester of the school year.

HomecomingThe Homecoming Court will include the following representatives: 3 Seniors; 1 Junior; 1 Sophomore; 1 Freshman; and 1 Boy and 1 Girl Grade Representative for students in Grades K-5 through 8th Grade. Students in each grade will select the class representatives for their respective grade (i.e., the senior class will select the three senior representatives, the junior class will select the junior representative, the sophomore class will select the sophomore representative, etc.) The previous year’s Homecoming Princess is ineligible to be selected for the Homecoming Court; however, all seniors are eligible to be selected. The previous year’s Boy and Girl Grade Representatives are ineligible to be selected. Students in Grades 9-12 will elect one Homecoming Queen from the senior representatives and one Homecoming Princess from the combined junior, sophomore, and freshman representatives. The Homecoming Queen will be crowned at the Homecoming Football Game.

The escorts for the queen and princess candidates will be selected by the candidates.

BY LAWS OF THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT

ARTICLE IName

The name of this organization shall be Student Government Association of Chambers Academy.

ARTICLE IIObjective

The Student Government Association shall be organized to promote cooperation between the faculty and thestudent body; to promote the high ideals of scholarship, citizenship, sportsmanship, extracurricular activities, service, and honor system; and to assist in the orderly operation of the school.

ARTICLE IIIMembership

Section I. Every registered student of Chambers Academy between grades seven and twelve is a constituent of the student council and has the right to vote in school wide elections. Every registered student of

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Chambers Academy is subject to the rules and regulations contained in this document and in the By-laws of the student council, and in all approved actions of said student council.

Section II. The Student Council shall consist of two representatives, one boy and one girl from each homeroom (grades seven to twelve) and the elected officers of the student body.

Section III. The honorary members of this organization shall consist of those persons selected by a majority of the SGA members.

ARTICLE IVOfficers

The officers of this organization shall be president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and parliamentarian.

ARTICLE VCandidates

Any student in grades eight through eleven having an overall “C” average and not failing any courses the preceding semester may run for an office. A student meeting these qualifications and desiring to run for an office will attend a general meeting before SGA Election Week. This meeting shall be for the purpose of briefing the candidates seeking election on their expectancies if elected to an office of the Student Council. Inorder to become a candidate seeking office, one must attend this meeting unless permission is given by the sponsor and/or the headmaster.

ARTICLE VICampaigning

The Headmaster shall designate SGA Election Week during the second semester prior to the AISA SGA Convention. Campaigning shall begin on the Monday of SGA Election Week and last until the following Friday. On that Friday, each candidate shall give a campaign speech to the student body.

ARTICLE VIIVoting

Section I. The election shall take place on the Friday of SGA Election Week immediately after the campaign speeches. Each class will vote with their homeroom teacher.

Section II. Voting shall be by secret ballot. If no candidate for an office receives a majority, a runoff election shall be held between the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes. This election will take place on the following Monday, and the results will be announced the same day.

Section III. The president shall be elected from the senior class and the vice president, secretary, and treasurershall be elected from grades nine through twelve.

Section IV. The officers of the student council shall hold no more than one office at a time and shall not serve for more than one term in the same office. The officers elected may not be the head of any other school organization.

ARTICLE VIIISpecial Elections

If a vacancy occurs in any of the aforementioned offices for any reason, including lack of qualified candidates at the time of a regular election, the Executive Board shall call a special meeting to fill the vacancy. Rules governing the meeting/election shall prevail in all called meeting/elections. The elections shall occur within one month of the time the vacancy occurs.

ARTICLE IXExecutive Board

The executive board shall consist of the president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and sponsor.

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ARTICLE XDuties and Limitations of the Executive Board

1. Plan and conduct worthwhile projects for the school.2. In cooperation with the FCS, the Executive Board shall plan and conduct special assemblies.3. Conduct all elections not under the direct control and responsibility of classes and clubs.4. Sponsor social functions.5. Investigate and report on questions referred to it by the Headmaster and the majority of the Student

Congress.6. Assist, at the request of the Headmaster, in regulating student activities.7. Conduct all other activities with the approval of the Headmaster and the majority of the Student

Congress.

ARTICLE XIRemoval from Office

Representative may be removed from office.1. If he/she misses three meetings at which his/her attendance is required without proper reasons. A

person shall be excused if he is absent from school and excused by the office, or for such other reasons as the Student Government Association faculty advisor sees proper.

2. If three-fourths of the members of the homeroom vote to recall him/her.3. If three-fourths of the members of the Student Congress vote for his/her removal because of non-

participation in Student Government Association work. The members of the Executive Board may be removed from office by the same methods listed for the representatives to the Student Congress in this charter, except that in recall, three-fourths of the student body must be present to vote for his/her removal.

ARTICLE XIIParliamentary Authority

The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the Councilin all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these by-laws and any special rules of order the Council may adopt.

ARTICLE XIIISpecial Acts

If twenty-five percent of the student body signs and presents to the Executive Board a petition requesting a vote by the student body on a law, rule, or regulation, that has been passed by the Student Council, the Executive Board shall call a special election to be held in no fewer than ten school days from the time of its presentation to the Executive Board. If a majority of all votes cast are against the law, rule, or regulation, the same shall be invalid, just as though the Council had never passed it.

ARTICLE XIVAmendment of By-Laws

These by-laws can be amended at any regular meeting of the Council by a two-thirds vote, provided that the amendment has been submitted in writing at the previous regular meeting.

Rules Concerning MISS PANACEA PageantThe following rules were approved by a majority vote of the Student Government Association on March 3, 2005.1. Miss Panacea will be open to all girls from K3 - 12th grades except the reigning queens.2. A $20.00 entrance fee will begin with the 2004 pageant.3. Junior Miss Congeniality and Miss Congeniality will be chosen by the contestants in the pageant.4. Junior Miss Congeniality and Miss Congeniality can also be a Class Beauty.5. Junior Miss Congeniality and Miss Congeniality can also be Miss Panacea.

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GENERAL RULES FOR ATHLETES

AthleticsIt is the goal of Chambers Academy to offer a quality athletic program for both male and female athletes. To that end, we attempt to recruit and employ experienced, knowledgeable coaches in all sports offered.

All coaches and athletes are advised that our school is judged by the behavior of our most visible students, our athletes. Coaches and athletes are expected to be role models for our younger students and ambassadors to the outside world. Behavior which is detrimental to the reputation and good name of Chambers Academy will not be tolerated.

AISA Athletic EligibilityAs a member of the AISA, Chambers Academy is bound by eligibility requirements of that organization. (Please see full policy beginning on page 29 of this handbook.) The following are partial requirements of the AISA. If you have any questions regarding eligibility, please contact Athletic Director Jason Allen.

Chambers Academy Athletic EligibilityIn addition to the requirements of the AISA, the following guidelines relate to all student athletes representing Chambers Academy.

A student who is absent from school more than one-half of the school day is ineligible to participate in gamesor practices that day without written consent from the Headmaster.

In order to maintain eligibility, all financial obligations to the school must have been met.

While each head coach of an athletic team at Chambers Academy has the authority to impose additional reasonable rules for his/her athletes, the following rules will apply to all Chambers Academy athletes.

1. The use of any type of tobacco products is strictly prohibited.2. The use of any type of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited.3. The use of any type of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited.4. Profanity by coaches or athletes is prohibited.5. Chambers Academy will abide by the AISA Student Appearance Policy for athletes. (Please see policy on

page 13 of this handbook.)

Violations of the above or any other rules of Chambers Academy athletic teams will be handled by the coaches. Serious infractions will be taken to the Athletic Director and then to the Headmaster if necessary. Disciplinary action will be appropriate to the offense and may be any reasonable punishment up to and including removal from the athletic team and/or athletic program.

Student InsuranceAll Chambers Academy students in Grades K-5 thru 12th Grade are covered by a school-day insurance plan. The cost of this insurance plan is included in the student fees.

Athletic PassAll Chambers Academy students in Grades K-5 thru 12th Grade are granted free admission to all athletic events sponsored solely by the school. Tournaments and play-off contests are not included.

Tuition ScheduleTuition rates are stated on the registration form. This completed form for each student serves as our contract and is required to be on file in the school office.

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AISA ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY RULES

To be eligible to participate in AISA interscholastic athletic events, a student is subject to the following requirements:I. Bona Fide Student

A. To qualify as a bona fide student of an AISA member school, an individual must be enrolled andin attendance for two full school days at grade level. 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. When a student attends school for the third day, the student becomes a bona fide student.1. If a student represents:

a. That school in interscholastic competition before the official opening day of school,that student must meet the bona fide student criteria of that school on opening day;

b. The member school in interscholastic competition prior to the official opening day but does not qualify as a bona fide student on the official opening day of school, anyand all games played by the member school while that student was a participant will be forfeited to its opponents. That school will also be subject to further disciplinary action by the AISA.Note: Eligibility starts in the seventh grade.

II. Age RestrictionA. A student is eligible for Junior High competition the entire year if his/her 16th birthday falls on

or after August 1 and is enrolled in the 9th grade or below.B. Student-Athletes who will be 19 years of age prior to August 1 will be ineligible for AISA

interscholastic athletics.III. Academic Requirements

A. All student-athletes must meet the following minimum requirements at each grade level to be eligible for interscholastic athletics.1. Seventh grade students must have passed the sixth grade the previous academic year, and

have been promoted to the seventh grade.2. Eighth grade students must have passed the seventh grade the previous academic year, and

have been promoted to the eighth grade.3. Ninth grade students must have passed the eighth grade the previous academic year, and

have been promoted to the ninth grade.4. Seventh and eighth grade students must pass five (5) subjects the first semester to be

eligible for the second semester.5. Tenth through twelfth grade students must have passed six (6) new Carnegie units during

the previous academic year to be eligible for the first semester. Note: A minimum of four (4) core curriculum credits must be included in this requirement. Ninth through twelfth grade students may earn and/or retain second semester eligibility by passing 3 new Carnegie units/courses during the first semester of the current year. Note: A minimum of (1½) core curricular credit/courses must be included in this requirement. If students do not meet AISA grade requirements at the end of the 1st semester, students may regain theireligibility for 2nd semester if all member school/AISA approved coursework is completed and in compliance with AISA grade requirements. Verification is due in the AISA office no later than March 1st. If requirements are completed earlier, student athletes may participate upon verification of coursework by the AISA office. If students do not meet requirements of this policy, they will continue to be ineligible for athletics for the remainder of 2nd semester. Students may not enroll in make-up coursework until the end of 1st semester as set on the AISA calendar of events. Only AISA approved courses may be used.**Core curricular subjects include English, History, Math, and Science.**A student-athlete repeating any seventh or eighth grade will be ineligible (for 1 calendar year), regardless of the reason for repeating. Students in grades 9-12 will follow the AISA Academic requirements.

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Grace Period: All student athletes transferring to an AISA member school will be given a one semester grace period to comply with AISA academic requirements (clarification: excluding graduation exam) for athletic eligibility providing they are eligible in the system from which they transfer. Note! A system is defined as a regulatory agency governing an association of Secondary schools interscholastic athletics with written guidelines for eligibility and sports programs. An AISA student-athlete declared ineligible at the beginning of a semester may not gain eligibility during that same semester by utilizing the grace period rule as stated above.

B. Explanation1. Student-athletes in grades 9-12 may earn a unit of credit for each course which meets for

140 clock hours during the school year and is successfully completed. If the student fails one semester and passes one semester of a course, one-half unit of credit will be earned.NOTE: Credit for courses not normally offered by AISA member schools and which are not clearly within the above definition must be approved by the AISA office for athletic eligibility purposes.

2. Courses taken in summer school shall be considered an extension of the school year and credits earned in summer school may be used in determining scholastic eligibility of students. Independent Study and tutorial type courses may not be used for athletic eligibility purposes. All summer school work and approved correspondence/on-line courses may be used for eligibility purposes but final grades must be in and recorded on student's transcript on the Monday prior to the AISA’s third playing date for football. A student is allowed a maximum of two (2) units in summer school to establish eligibility for the fall semester.Clarification: Summer school is defined as any coursework begun after end of 2nd semester(as stated on AISA calendar) and concluded by the deadline set by the AISA.

3. Only one (1) unit of credit may be earned for eligibility purposes when duplicate courses are taken during the same school year unless course(s) are scheduled for credit make up.

IV. Time LimitationsA student entering the ninth (9th) grade and meeting the bona fide student criteria will have a maximumof four (4) consecutive years of interscholastic athletic eligibility.

V. High school graduates are ineligible.VI. Participation Requirements

A. Student athletes are ineligible if they have participated in athletics above the high school level. (This does not mean that a student cannot attend football and basketball camps and other summer camps that are sometimes held on college campuses and often instructed by college coaches.) Member schools cannot conduct such camps, unless sanctioned by the AISA.

B. Student-athletes cannot complete a season in any sport at any school, public or independent, andthen transfer to a member school and represent that school in the same sport during the school year.

VII. Required FormsBefore participating in athletics and/or cheerleading, a student must have a current physician's statement, concussion form, medical history form, certified Birth Certificate, Social Security number, a parent's permit to participate, and a medical treatment form on file in the administrator's and/or athletic director's office (includes termite/pee wee).

VIII. Amateur StatusA student must be an amateur to be eligible for AISA interscholastic competition. A student-athlete will lose his/her amateur status by committing any of the following acts:1. Use athletic knowledge or skill for financial gain;2. Sell an award prize earned in competition;3. Receive prize money;4. Bet on a contest in which he/she is a participant;5. Compete for a money guarantee or share of gate receipts;6. Teach or coach a sport for money; (An amateur may referee or coach a Y Team or Boys Club

Team and accept necessary expenses on athletic trips.)

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7. Accept payments of excessive expense allowances; (It is permissible for an athlete to accept only actual and necessary expenses on athletic trips.)

IX. Transfer StudentsA. Student-athletes transferring to an AISA member school must have their current transcript on

file in the administrator's office and be in compliance with all other stated eligibility requirementsbefore participation in AISA interscholastic athletics.NOTE: A transferring student athlete will not be eligible in the AISA if he/she is academically ineligible in the system from which transferring.1. A student transferring from a non-member school to a member school is eligible for

competition after a two week (10 week days) waiting period, provided he/she meets all other stated AISA eligibility requirements.NOTE! Additions to sports eligibility list will not be allowed after the opening date of thesport season as listed on the AISA Calendar of Events, unless the bona-fide move rule criteria has been met and all other transfer rules complied with. Exception: An exception to this rule may be made provided the students were enrolled in the school for the first twenty (20) days as set forth by 2009-2010 AISA Calendar of Events. This is effective for the 2009-2010 basketball season.

2. A student in grades 7-12 who transfers from one member to another member school and whose parents' residence has not changed and meets the criteria for a bona-fide move, shall not be eligible for interscholastic competition at any level for one (1) year beginning with the date of withdrawal from the previous school or the date of his/her attendance at the school transferred to, whichever comes first. A student may transfer from a member school to another member school at the end of sixth grade and be eligible. A student transferring from an AISA member school to a member school may participate in their school’s spring scrimmage and/or jamboree. The student must be a bona-fide student and meet all academic eligibility requirements.

3. If a student athlete transfers to another AISA member school, the parents’ residence must change to a location that is geographically (as measured by road miles) closer to the schoolattended. This move must meet the criteria for a bona fide move if eligibility is to be granted.

4. A student enrolled in an AISA member school may transfer to a new school, in its first year of operation on a secondary level, and be eligible for junior high athletics only. This rule applies to students who live nearer (most direct route) to the new school. All other transfers must meet stated AISA transfer rules.

5. In the case where a student lives equal distance from two or more schools, the one which he/she last attended will be considered his/her home school.

6. A student transferring from an AISA member school to a non-member school and transfers to another AISA school must have been officially withdrawn from previous member school for one (1) calendar year in order to be eligible to participate in athletics at that AISA member school. Furthermore, that student must also be eligible according to allthe stated AISA rules prior to participating at the new AISA member school.

7. A transferring student-athlete may be eligible to compete in any sport at the school he/shetransfers to if the school from which the transfer came does not offer competition in that sport.

8. Once school starts, a student athlete may not change schools and compete in the same sport at two different AISA schools within the same year.

9. The full-time professional employment (degreed Administrator, teacher, or coach) of a student-athlete's parent(s) or guardian supersedes the AISA transfer policies (they must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and must be employed full-time (30hours per week).

10. Any student whose parents' residence has changed from one community to another is eligible for competition, providing the residence change meets ALL of the following criteria for a bona fide move:a. The family's household furniture and all personal belongings must be moved into an

unoccupied house, apartment, or a dwelling of similar structure and size.

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Documents substantiating the inhabitancy of a new dwelling must be available uponrequest.

b. The entire family (all immediate dependents) must move to the new residence.c. The original residence must be closed, rented, or disposed of and not used by the

moving family.d. Documents verifying a vocational change relocation, transfer, or for other related

vocational and/or livelihood reasons which necessitate a move by the primary family bread winner must be available upon request. Residence changes for purposes other than those stated above will receive no consideration.

e. The parents' residence must change to a location that is geographically (as measured by road miles) closer to the school attended.

f. The AISA office must be notified immediately in writing by the receiving school of any student-athlete transferring in from a member school.

g. The AISA office staff must personally visit and evaluate any move which is questioned in writing by a member school administrator.

h. Eligibility approved on the compliance with the bona fide move criteria will be revoked immediately upon the families return to the dwelling from which they moved.

11. Boarding School Transfer: A student from a member school may transfer to a member boarding school and maintain eligibility. This procedure may be applied only one time during a student’s four years of high school. A member boarding school student may transfer back to his/her home school and maintain eligibility if the transfer is made before school starts. This procedure may be applied only one time during a student's four years ofhigh school. Other transfers must comply with all stated AISA transfer rules. This rule does not apply to day school students.The following criteria must be met in order for an AISA member school to be classified asa boarding school:a. The boarding school must have appropriate dormitory facilities that are school

owned property to house, feed, and provide general living accommodations for the boarding students.

b. The boarding school must employ properly trained supervisory personnel who are on duty at all times, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

c. A boarding student must spend at least an average of four (4) nights per week living and boarding on campus while school is in session.

d. The boarding school must meet all of the criteria listed herein and be approved as a boarding school through the AISA office prior to any athletic eligibility beingestablished for boarding students.

e. All other eligibility requirements must be met prior to the establishment of athletic eligibility.

12. Student-athletes transferring from a home school and/or a non-traditional school programwill be eligible for AISA interscholastic athletics, if all AISA eligibility requirements have been met.

13. International Students: International students will have one (1) year of eligibility in AISA interscholastic athletics providing: (a) they are assigned by an approved CSIET Foreign Exchange Program or reside with a parent or legal guardian, in accordance with AISA policies; and (b) they meet all AISA eligibility specifications. It is the responsibility of the head school administrator to ensure that all foreign education credentials have been properly evaluated for the purposes of athletic eligibility. The AISA recommends the professional foreign education credentialing services of Lisano International (www.lisano-intl.com), if the school does not have staff members qualified to properly evaluate the credentials. Note: Only those international students meeting the criteria for a bona-fide move and in compliance with AISA legal custody policies will be considered for additionaleligibility.Note: All international students on your master eligibility list prior to January 29, 2015 will be “grandfathered” under the previous policy and practices. Any international students

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admitted, or added, to your master eligibility list after January 28, 2015 must comply with the new policy for the purposes of athletic eligibility.

14. The eligibility of student-athletes enrolled at a member school that either closes or merges with another member school will be considered as follows:a. If the school's secondary facility closes or merges, the school's student-athletes may

transfer to any member school without loss of eligibility.b. Student-athletes enrolled at the school selected to remain open in a merger are

required to comply with stated AISA transfer policies.15. TRANSFER RULES APPLY TO ALL STUDENT-ATHLETES IN GRADES 7-12.

X. Legal CustodyThe changing of legal custody, guardianship, or the process of adoption and legal separation are not considered conclusive by the AISA and will not establish athletic eligibility.For the purposes of athletic eligibility, the AISA will recognize only court order custody decrees in divorce cases and finalized legal adoption papers signed by a judge regarding proper custody of a child. In addition, the student must reside with the legally assigned custodian.If a student has been declared a “ward of the state” and placed by the Department of Human Resources (DHR), that student would meet the Transfer Rule requirement in the school zone where the student has been placed.Note: All other matters related to legal custody are subject to review by the Athletic Committee prior to the establishment of athletic eligibility.

XI. Eligibility ListsA. Each member school must have on file in the AISA office a MASTER ELIGIBILITY LIST

BY GRADE AND ALPHABETIZED, listing all students enrolled in grades 7-12. Forms for this requirement will be provided by the AISA annually. NOTE: Additions and/or deletions maybe made on an annual or need basis.

B. Each member school’s Sports Eligibility Master List must be on file in the AISA office at least ten (10) days prior to the opening of the fall sports season. There will be a $250.00 fine for a late report. Note: A copy of a new student’s transcript must accompany the New Students’ List for AISA Sports Eligibility for each transfer student-athlete listed.

C. Each member school shall mail a copy of their sports roster to each opponent at least five (5) days prior to their scheduled contest.

XII. Birth CertificateAll student-athletes participating in interscholastic athletics must have a CERTIFIED, STATE-NUMBER BIRTH CERTIFICATE and SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER on file in the Athletic Director's or Headmaster's office.

XIII. PenaltyAny member school using an ineligible student-athlete in interscholastic competition (including the spring) will have all its wins while that individual was participating forfeited to its opponents. The ineligible player shall be dropped from the team, and the school will be fined a minimum of $500.00. The school will be banned from post season play in the sport concerned if violation is deemed intentional. The school may be subject to further disciplinary action, if deemed necessary by the AISA State Office and the AISA Athletic Committee. No ineligible player is allowed to dress in uniform or participate in an AISA interscholastic event.

XIV. Procedure StatementIF THERE IS A QUESTION ABOUT AN INDIVIDUAL'S ELIGIBILITY STATUS, HE OR SHE IS INELIGIBLE.

XV. If an athletic member school discontinues or does not sponsor a sports team (i.e., varsity Football, junior high basketball, etc.), a student may transfer to another member school and play on the sports team that the student’s former school discontinues or does not sponsor. The student will not be eligible to play on any sports team at the student’s new school if that sports team was offered at the student’s old school prior to the transfer and is still sponsoring the sports team in the current year of the student’s transfer. All other eligibility and transfer rules apply for the transferred student.

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XVI. (EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, AS OF AUGUST 26, 2009): Reinstatement of Former Students returning to an AISA Member School:Student-athletes who have transferred to a non-member school may return to their original member school and become eligible immediately if the following conditions are met:A. Student-athlete was on the AISA member school’s eligibility list at the end of the prior school

year.B. Student must be on roll no later than the first Wednesday after the 2nd week of the regular AISA

football season for first semester or the first Wednesday in January for second semester eligibilityin accordance to the AISA Calendar of Events.

C. Student-athlete participation in the non-member school’s sport practice or games prior to the above dates will not prohibit the student-athlete’s participation at the AISA member school.

D. Student-athlete must meet all eligibility requirements and submit appropriate forms for approval to the AISA Athletic Director prior to participation.

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