Peace Lutheran School is a part of Peace Lutheran Church. PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH is called and empowered by the Holy Spirit to welcome all people to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When Peace Congregation was organized in 1941, its members felt that the most effective manner in which to carry out the Lord's directives completely was to provide for a daily program of Christian education which would educate the whole child: body, mind, and heart. It was on the basis of the following passages from Holy Scripture that this was carried out:
Religion is not a course added to the secular course of studies. Rather, all studies are presented in the light of God's Word, and all subjects become meaningful to the child of God as ways of developing talents for greater service to a loving God who redeemed him from sin. CREDO OF PEACE LUTHERAN SCHOOL WE BELIEVE that the purpose of Christian education is to teach the Christian faith through instruction in God's Word as found in Holy Scripture, and learning to live a life of discipleship. (Ephesians 4:15; Matthew 7:24; John 1:12) WE BELIEVE God's people need to learn their proper relationship to God and their fellow men. WE BELIEVE that effective education is carried on through quality learning programs that relate the Christian faith to all activities and areas of life. WE BELIEVE in emphasis on a thorough academic training, on developing morally responsible citizens for this life, and on the nurturing of souls on their path to eternity. WE BELIEVE that a Christian educator is committed to provide, to the best of his ability, a complete education for God's people by meeting their spiritual, mental, social, physical, and emotional needs. (Genesis 2:7; Matthew 4:4) WE BELIEVE that the uniqueness of our Christian education rests in this: Christian education views the pupil through the cross of Christ; Christian education has the Father's given reasons for educating man. (Proverbs 22:6; Isaiah 54:13) Christian Education is empowered by the Spirit for accomplishing its purpose. We but plant, water, and nurture. -adequate time for Christian instruction; -the impact of professional teachers who are Christians teaching in a day-to-day Christian environment necessary for Christian education; -the plus of the "Body" of Christ at work; and -the fact that the Lutheran school tries to meet the learner' s needs in a single school setting. WE BELIEVE that the FAMILY exerts the basic influence on the child's total education, and that the Church and school must equip adults for their important role in Christian education. To these ends Peace Lutheran Church operates without profit this elementary school to provide children instruction in all subjects in accordance with the tenets of Biblical faith and in the interest of good citizenship. The prime responsibility of training the child still remains with the home. While Peace Congregation has provided for a program of systematic Christian instruction for its children, it does not intend to remove any of the obligation of the parents. Home devotions, parental interest in the attitudes toward church and school, regular attendance at divine services as a family unit, as well as the example of good Christian living set by parents are all very important factors in the total Christian training of the child. ADMINISTRATION The Lutheran School system is an integral part of the American educational program. The elementary schools of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod date back to the decade of the 1830s, when a number of Lutheran congregations were organized in Midwestern states and established Christian schools for their children. The first of these schools is older than the public schools in most states. Peace Lutheran School was established in 1941. Peace is a part of the Michigan District of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod. The Michigan District has 100 Lutheran schools which employ approximately a thousand teachers and enroll over seventeen thousand students. Lutheran pre-schools add an additional 290 teachers and nearly seven thousand pupils. Peace Lutheran School follows curricular standards comparable to public schools. Peace Lutheran School meets the educational standards of the state, and its graduates are accepted in any high school of the state. Peace Lutheran Church has delegated the responsibility for the operation of the school to the Board for Christian Day School. This group consists of lay members of the congregation elected by the Voter's Assembly. The Pastors, Principal, and teachers serve as advisory members of the Board. The School Board formulates, implements, supervises, and evaluates all policies that pertain to the operation of Peace Lutheran School. The Principal is the administrative agent of the Board and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school. FACULTY Teachers at Peace Lutheran School are certified by the Michigan State Department of Education as required by state law. In addition, they are also certified by the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. A number of the faculty members have also earned Masters degrees. Our teachers are dedicated men and women who are committed to full-time teaching in a Lutheran Christian school, and, as such, are interested in and concerned about the personal welfare of each pupil under their care. ACCREDITATION Since 1990 Peace Lutheran School has been accredited with the National Lutheran School Accreditation program. This process also provides accreditation with the Michigan District of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod as well as with the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools (MANS). RELATION TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS We greatly respect the public school system for the work they do. Peace Lutheran School does not exist in opposition to the public school system, but for the purpose of supplying the Christian education which the public school by its very nature is unable to provide. Rather than being in competition with the public schools, we seek to work closely with them in fulfilling the responsibilities of education in the community. II. ENTRANCE POLICIES A. WHOM WE SERVE Though Peace Lutheran School is maintained primarily for the children of Peace Lutheran Church, we offer our program of Christ-centered education to as many as we can accommodate. Enrollments will be considered in the following order: 1. Children of the congregation when one or both parents are members of Peace 2. Children of sister congregations. (Missouri Synod) 3. Children whose parents have no church affiliation. 4. Children of other churches. The school policy is to accept no more than a maximum of 20 pupils per classroom in kindergarten, 25 in grades 1-3, and 30 in grades 4-8. Since we are not equipped for Special Education, we must limit our instructional program to children who have been making a reasonably good adjustment to school and to life in general. B. AGE As required by state law, children enrolling in Kindergarten must attain the age of five on or before December 1st. Those entering first grade must have reached their sixth birthday on or before December 1. C. CERTIFICATE OF BIRTH State law requires us to see a copy of the child's birth certificate at the time of registration for Kindergarten. D. APPLICATION AND DEPOSIT Those wishing to enroll in Peace Lutheran School will need to complete and sign an Application for Enrollment which includes the Parental Agreement. A Registration Fee equal to the Educational Fee for the coming school year must accompany the Application. This fee is non-refundable if a student does not attend. However, it is credited against the Educational Fee for fall registration. If we are unable to accept the student(s), the Registration Fee would be returned. E. PREVIOUS SCHOOLING Parents will be asked to sign a Release of Records form requesting records from the previous school. Acceptance is conditional upon the receipt of those records and their indication of probable success in the grade for which the student is enrolling. F. IMMUNIZATION It is the requirement that any student entering school for the first time in either Kindergarten or Grade 1 or by transfer from another state, must have his/her immunization program brought up to date as required by Act 12, Public Acts 1960. This law includes immunizations against smallpox, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, rubella, measles, varicella (chicken pox) and hepatitis B. The principal is required by law to suspend any student who does not meet the state's requirements by a certain date.
III. FINANCIAL INFORMATION A. SUPPORT The cost of a full-time Christian education is considerable. The cost of building, maintenance, salaries, materials, etc., added up to approximately $4,900 per student for the 2004-05 school year. The majority of these costs are shared by all members of Peace Lutheran Church. They do so because they realize the importance of Christian Education for all. The following Member Support Policy applies to members of Peace Lutheran Church: WORSHIP ATTENDANCE POLICY
Families whose children are enrolled as students in Peace Lutheran Church's educational ministries, Peace Lutheran School and Valley Lutheran High School, will need to register their attendance each week on special green fellowship cards. Parents and students alike will need to meet the 50% minimum to continue to benefit from Peace's school ministries. Children from kindergarten through grade five can choose either Sunday School or Church as their attendance requirement. Students in grades six through twelve, along with a minimum of one parent, must register 50% minimum attendance at Peace Lutheran Church. Failure to meet the 50% standard over any one semester (July 1 - December 31 or January 1 - June 30) will bring about a one semester probation period during which time the family will need to show the necessary improvement to the 50% minimum level. If parents or students choose not to fulfill this requirement they will be placed on full tuition status at Peace Lutheran School and Valley Lutheran High School. We are so thankful that most Peace families worship
much more than 50% of the time. With a school financial obligation over
$2500 per student and a Valley commitment of nearly $26,000, you can see
the need for spiritual renewal each Sunday to move us to support those
important educational ministries with our worship attendance and
offerings. If you have any concerns or questions, please address them to
the Member Support Policy Committee through the church office. We praise
our Lord for the opportunity to serve our children at Peace Lutheran
School and Valley Lutheran High School! B. TUITION The School Board has established tuition rates so that those receiving direct benefits will share in the costs. The tuition charged does not cover the full cost of education for each child. The difference is made up by members of Peace Lutheran Church. Tuition and fee rates are listed in Appendix A. Tuition payments are due to the SMART tuition program on the tenth day of the month, September through May. Any payment that is over ten days late will be subject to a late fee of $ 15.00. When an account becomes 60 days past due, we will send a certified letter with a dated response, from the school office. If an account becomes 90 days past due, a certified letter will be sent that states that your child(ren) will be excluded from school unless payment is received. Promotions, report cards, and transfer of records will be withheld until all bills are paid in full. C. REGISTRATION FEE At the time of initial enrollment, new students will pay a Registration Fee equal to the Educational Fee for the coming school year. This fee is non-refundable if a student does not attend. However, it is credited against the Book fee for fall registration. D. EDUCATIONAL (BOOK) FEE Hardbound books used during the school year are
provided on a rental basis. The Educational or Book Fee pays for their
cost as well as for workbooks, art supplies, audio-visual fee, library
materials, P.E. equipment and supplies, and other instructional items.
This fee is due on Registration Day at the beginning of the school year.
Bible, hymnal, and catechism are purchased separately by students and
become their own property. E. RE-ENROLLMENT FEE Students indicating an intention to re-enroll for the following school year have a Re-enrollment Fee equal to the Educational Fee due on February 15. This fee is non-refundable if a student later decides not to return. For the returning student, it is credited against the Educational Fee for the coming school year. Only one re-enrollment fee is needed for each family. If that fee is not paid by February 15, the student's name is removed from the Roster. The fee to re-enroll after February 15 is $15 higher than the Educational Fee, and students will be accepted on a "space available" basis. F. P. T. L. FEE Each family pays a membership fee to the Parent-Teacher League which helps it to maintain its programs and services to the parents, students, and school. G. PARTY FUND Each student pays a fee which provides money for the parties held in the classroom throughout the year. The charge for students in grades five through eight is slightly higher to better provide for their needs. H. DAMAGES Children are expected to keep their books, desks, classrooms and playground clean and in good order. They will be asked to reimburse the school for loss as well as for any careless or willful damage to textbooks. Pupils will also be held responsible for school furniture, equipment or school property which is carelessly or deliberately defaced, damaged, or marred. Textbooks are required to have a paper book cover. I. HOT LUNCH Hot lunch is served daily by the Saginaw Township Community Schools Food Service Department. Parents deposit funds in each student's account which is then debited each time they eat hot lunch. Questions about account balances should be directed to the Saginaw Township Community Schools Food Service Department at 793-9713. Free and reduced-price lunches are available for those who meet the guidelines established by the National School Hot Lunch Program. J. MILK A flat fee will be charged to cover the cost of kindergarten milk for the school year. All fees are reviewed on an annual basis relative to the costs involved. Current fee amounts are listed in Appendix A. All fees must be paid before students may receive their final report card for the year. K. RETURNED CHECKS A $15.00 charge will be added for any check returned to us by the bank for non-sufficient funds or other non-payment. This charge covers our costs assessed by the bank as well as administrative costs.
IV. CURRICULAR MATTERS A. CURRICULUM In keeping with the purpose of Peace Lutheran School, the curriculum is based on the Word of God. The pupils have the opportunity of hearing the Word of God taught daily in its truth and purity. The truths of the Bible are taught not only during the Religion period, but they permeate into all teaching and thereby they inculcate in the children a truly Christian philosophy of life. A brief devotion begins each class day, which includes instruction in Christian doctrine and Bible study. In the lower grades the Religious instruction consists chiefly in learning Bible stories, together with their application to life situations. Systematic instruction in Christian doctrine as outlined in Luther's Small Catechism is added in the upper grades. Memorization of Bible selections, hymn verses and prayers is carried on in all grades. In keeping with the Christian philosophy of education and with respect to the educational requirements of the State of Michigan, our children receive a thorough education in the following subject areas: RELIGION AND WORSHIP Bible study, Voyages Curriculum, Memorization, Church History, Confirmation Instruction, Morning Devotions, Wednesday and Sunday Services and Special Services which involve the children. LANGUAGE ARTS Handwriting, Spelling, Language, Reading, Phonics, Literature GENERAL SCIENCE Concepts of Biological and Physical Sciences, Health, Safety. SOCIAL STUDIES Geography, History, Civics and Current Events. MATHEMATICS Number Usage, Arithmetic, Elementary Algebra, Geometry and Metrics. FINE ARTS Music, Music Appreciation, Band, Choir, Drawing, Painting, Crafts, Art and Art Appreciation. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Skills, Games, Sports, Physical Fitness, Rhythm, and Recreation. COMPUTERS Computer assisted instruction in other subject areas with some computer literacy, keyboarding, and word processing. Internet access is available in all classrooms. B. CURRICULUM REVISIONS The curriculum and textbooks are reviewed on a rotating, five year plan. The areas considered are: Year Subject area 2004-2005 Reading, spelling 2005-2006 Mathematics, computers 2006-2007 Science, Physical Education 2007-2008 Social Studies, Art
2008-2009
Language, handwriting, music C. LIBRARY Our school has a central library with a large number of books in many fields of interest and learning. An extensive periodical file contains articles grouped by subject area. Students in each class have regularly scheduled library periods. In addition to this, they have access to the library at other times according to their needs and their teacher's direction. D. INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA Peace Lutheran School holds membership in the Instructional Media Center of the Saginaw Intermediate School District. Through it classes have access to a huge number of audio-visual resources which assist in the learning process. In addition the school equipment includes computers, film projectors, VCR's, video disk player, record players, tape recorders, overhead projectors, computers, filmstrips, recordings, and many other learning aids. Science equipment and maps and globes are available for those areas. E. HOMEWORK There will generally be some homework each evening. The amount depends on the grade level, ability and study habits of the child. Parents can help by providing encouragement and a quiet place for study. If your child is unable to complete his assignments, kindly send an explanatory note to his teacher. If assignments are consistently burdensome, the teacher should be contacted so the matter can be adjusted. F. REPORTING TO PARENTS Report cards are issued four times each year, at the end of each quarter (approximately nine weeks). They are a report to the parents of how the child has progressed during that period. For a better understanding of the report card and the individual child, Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first and third quarters. All parents are expected to attend the fall conference, while the spring conference is optional. Parents are urged to consult the teacher at any time whenever the progress of their child seems unsatisfactory. G. GRADING SCALE A- 92 - 90 C 76 -73 B+ 89 - 87 - Good C- 72 - 70 B 86 - 83 D 66 - 63 D+ 69 - 67 - Below Average B- 82 - 80 D- 62 - 60 F 59 - 0 - Failure + Commendable /Satisfactory - Needs Improvement Honor Roll awards are given to students in grades 4-8 in recognition of excellent classroom work and as an encouragement to work harder and to improve their grades. Honor Roll is awarded in two phases. Recognition is given upon the completion of each quarter of the school year based on the grades for that quarter. A final Honor Roll is awarded on the last day of school in June based on grades compiled from all four quarters. In order for a student to be considered for the year end Honor Roll, he/she must have achieved a standard of High Honors (A or A-), Honor Roll (B or B+) , or any combination thereof, at least three of the four quarters. The standards for achieving either type of award are the same. Grades to be included in determining Honor Roll awards are religion, memory work, reading-literature, language, spelling, social studies, math, science, history, civics, and phonics. Subjects not used are any of the above for which a teacher has no grade, any of the above for which a teacher gives a +, check , or - grade, and subjects such as handwriting, music, band, art, computer, physical education and electives. However, a student will not be considered for Honor Roll or High Honors is he/she has an unsatisfactory or a grade lower than a C- in any subject. To determine quarterly Honor Roll status, the grades for the eligible subjects are averaged. To determine yearly Honor Roll status, the four quarterly grades for each subject are averaged and those averages are averaged to determine a final grade. In these calculations, only the whole number percentage will be considered without any rounding. There are two levels of achievement in the Honor Roll
system. To achieve High Honor Roll a student' s average grade must
be 100 - 90%. To achieve Honor Roll a student' s average must be
89 - 85%.
All High Honors and Honor Roll recipients names will
be published quarterly in the Thursday Parent Note.
I. PROMOTION AND RETENTION Whenever a student is having problems achieving success in the classroom, the teacher will work closely with the parent(s). If it appears doubtful that the student will be able to be promoted to the next grade, the parent(s) will ordinarily be informed of that at the end of the first semester. The teacher, parent(s), and principal will seek to determine whether promotion or retention would be in the best interest of the child. The ultimate decision of whether or not to promote a student lies with the school. J. TESTING In addition to regular subject testing, Achievement Tests are administered to all children in the spring o f the year. Through them the school is able to draw a comparison of its pupils with a national average or standard. The results point up strengths and weaknesses in the teaching program, methods, and materials as well as with individual students. School Ability Index tests are administered to students in grades 2, 4, and 7 to help determine the level of ability of each child. The test results are shared with the parents as well as entered into the child's permanent record. K. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Every child at Peace is included is some phase of the physical education program. All grades have several gym classes per week, the number depending upon the grade of the child. In these classes they learn various skills and work on physical fitness. L. COMPUTER EDUCATION Students have at least two computer classes in the computer room each week. They are taught to use the computer as a tool to assist them in their education. Keyboarding skills and word processing are an important part of the program. Computers are also available in the classrooms. Students also use the computers for testing in the Accelerated Reader program M. OUTDOOR EDUCATION On alternating years our fifth and sixth graders spend three days at the Hartley Nature Center in St. Charles during the fall, winter, or spring of the year. They are under the direction of their teacher and the staff from the Center. Their activities are devoted to nature study, geology, and other areas of interest which can be taught most effectively in an outdoor setting. N. MUSIC EDUCATION Students in Grades 1 - 8 receive two half-hour classes per week of general music instruction. Kindergarten and pre-school use music frequently in their learning process. Students also have the opportunity to participate in band and/or choir. O. TOURS AND FIELD TRIPS Individual classes usually take several tours and field trips during the school year to help enhance their learning. Parents are asked to assist with transportation and supervision for these activities. Parents attending field trips will be responsible for their own expenses, including any admission fee and transportation costs.
V. CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES A. CHOIRS In addition to the general music curriculum, students are given the opportunity to participate in various choirs. These choirs will take part in chapel services as well as church services throughout the school year. Students are expected to be present at the worship services during which their choir is scheduled to sing. B. BAND Students in grades five through eight have the opportunity to participate in the band program. A Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Band meet twice a week under the direction of an instructor. A special fee is charged for this instruction. Students are responsible for purchasing or renting their own instruments. C. MUSIC FESTIVAL Since 1966 the Saginaw Valley Lutheran schools have sponsored a Music Festival each spring. Soloists, ensembles, large groups, etc., share their talents with others and are rated on their performance. D. SPELLING BEES Each spring Spelling Bees are held for the students of Peace Lutheran School in grades 3 & 4, and 5 - 8. Students are selected through a competition held in each classroom. Also in the spring, the Saginaw Valley Lutheran Schools sponsor a Spelling Bee. Representatives for Peace compete with students from other Lutheran schools in the area. Peace also competes with other area schools in the Saginaw County Spelling Bee. This contest can lead to participation in the National Spelling Bee held in Washington, D. C. E. ATHLETICS Peace Lutheran School is a member of the Tri - County Lutheran League and participates with neighboring Lutheran schools in a variety of interscholastic sports. Most sports opportunities are on the seventh and eighth grade level, although some things are also available for the lower grades. Peace fields teams for both boys and girls in basketball and track. Girls also have volleyball and cheerleading/pom pons. The league has also held one day tournaments for boys volleyball and girls soccer. ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY Besides their relationship with their Savior, a first priority of students of Peace Lutheran School is academic Christian education. Participation in athletics is a privilege granted to students who are making satisfactory progress in their academic and Christian growth. In order to participate in athletics a student must be putting forth satisfactory effort towards his/her academic or Christian behavior and growth. Falling grades, incomplete assignments, or lack of concern for academic performance are some evidences of an unsatisfactory effort in the area of academics. Inappropriate classroom behavior, excessive checks/warnings for disturbances or disrespect, or removal from the classroom are some things that give evidence of unsatisfactory effort in Christian behavior and growth. A student observed displaying a problem in any of these areas may be encouraged by any or all of the following means: - Parent(s) are informed of the problem - If the student has not corrected the problem in the allotted time, the student and parent(s) /guardian will be notified that athletic privileges are being withheld. Such removal of athletic privileges includes practices, games, or other activities of the team. The removal will last until the problem is corrected, but not less than one week. - Continued ineligibility may result in dismissal from the team. VI. ATTENDANCE MATTERS A. ATTENDANCE In accordance with the laws of the State of Michigan,
it is the parent's responsibility to see to it that each child of school
age is in attendance whenever school is in session. Illness is the only
excused reason for absence. Parents must exercise discretion so that a
child is not absent when not truly sick. Likewise, for their own sake as
well as concern for others, students should not be in school when they are
ill. B. SCHOOL CALENDAR The school provides the necessary school days each
year as required by the State Department of Education. Two emergency
closing days (snow days, ice storms, flooding, etc.) are allowed each
year. Where possible, the schedule attempts to coincide with other school
systems in the area. The calendar for the current school year is in
Appendix C. C. SCHOOL SCHEDULE The daily schedule of Peace Lutheran School provides the number of hours of instruction to meet state requirements. Classes begin at 8:10 AM and students are dismissed at 3:10 PM. D. EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS Peace Lutheran School will follow the decision of the Saginaw Township Community School district when closing or delaying the opening of a school day due to inclement weather (snow days, ice storms, fog, etc.) For closings necessitated by reasons other than weather, Peace will make an independent decision and announce it separately. If by chance there is a delay because of fog, grades K - 8 will begin at 10:15 A.M., (there is usually a 2 hour delay), and the 3 yr. old or 4 yr. old pre-school class scheduled for that morning would be canceled.
Announcement of such closings or delays will be made on radio stations WSGW, WIOG, WSAM, WGER, WKCQ, WHNN, WMJK, WMJA and WUGN (Family Life Radio) as well as TV channel 5, 12 and 25. The TV stations also have web sites that post this information. The web site for Channel 5 is wnem.com, Channel 12 is abc12.com and Channel 25 is NBC25.net. If announcement is not made, school is presumed to be in session. It would be wise to check more than one source, since sometimes mistakes are made which are beyond our control.
E. ABSENCE Whenever a child is absent from school, it is the
parent's responsibility to call the school with this information prior to 9:00 AM. When the child is absent for more than one day, it is necessary for the parent to inform the school office every day. F. EXCUSES In addition to bringing a written excuse for
absence(s), each child is required to bring a note explaining his
tardiness as well as permission for medical, vision, and dental
appointments and for non-participation in physical education or recess
activities. Parents are asked to exercise care not to remove children from
the classroom during the time of achievement testing. G. STUDENT VACATIONS ON SCHOOL DAYS If at all possible, a one week notice must be given to the teacher for unexcused or illegal absences. Depending upon the teacher preference and availability of assignments, homework may be given before the absence. Makeup work is due within one week after returning to school. No grades will be given for the daily work, but the teacher will check the work to be sure it was done. If the work is not done, the student will receive a zero for the assignment. Parents are responsible for correcting the work when they return. The teacher will supply the answers if needed. The teacher will give and grade all makeup tests missed during the absence. These have to be taken within one week after the student returns. H. EARLY ARRIVAL A latchkey area is provided for those students who need to arrive between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Students arriving during that time are to go to the Latchkey area in the cafeteria where they will be under supervision until classroom doors are open at 7:55 AM. After school latchkey services are provided until 6:00 P.M. Students must be registered in advance in order to participate in this program. All students must be signed up for Latchkey even if you do not anticipate using the service. Students who are not picked up from school by 3:20 P.M. will be required to go to the Latchkey area for supervision. Emergency forms and other paperwork needs to be on file for each participant. Parents are billed monthly for the number of days that their child has used the Latchkey area. I. TRANSPORTATION Saginaw Township Schools will provide bus transportation for residents of the Township who live more than 1.5 miles from our school. Final determination of eligibility to ride the bus rests with the Township Transportation Department. Routes and pick-up points are also published in the Township Times. A detailed copy of regulations for bus riders and their parents is provided by the Saginaw Township Schools. Failure to follow those rules may result in suspension of bus privileges. VII. DISCIPLINE MATTERS A. DISCIPLINE It is important that both parents and teachers have the same understanding about discipline. Both must be working with the child toward common goals by common means, with open and prompt communication between parents and teachers. The goal to be worked for is always self-discipline. For a Christian, this self-discipline is something special, because the Christian is disciplined also by the Holy Spirit. Self-discipline means having a sense of responsibility, but a Christian in a democratic society has added responsibilities. He must be responsible not only to himself, his community and country, his family, and the rest of the world, but also to God. All of these responsibilities are seen in the light of God's forgiving love shown to us in Christ. The ultimate source of our power to love others and act responsibly is God's Holy Spirit. Christian discipline can be thought of as having four parts: 2. Repentance 3. Forgiveness 4. New Life was wrong. Forgiveness must follow. But, if new life, a fresh relationship with God and fellow believers, doesn. t happen, real Christian discipline has not taken place. The new life of the Christian is not just a slight changing of the old life, or the natural ways, but it is an entire transformation, done by the power of the Holy Spirit. Working through the Gospel, the message of God's love, the Spirit creates new life in the believer. The activity of this new life is love-powered. This new love-powered behavior comes as a result of the Gospel, the Word of forgiveness, never just the Work of law alone. We as parents and teachers can never count on a scolding or punishment to give truly Christ-centered behavior. If we do, we have left out a major portion of what Christian discipline is all about. Do we seek out a Christian elementary school just because it seems to have better "discipline" or orderliness? A Christian school is, rather, a place where a child's disorder can be forgiven each day. If we fail to think of discipline as a process of confessing and forgiving, we pass up God's power. We must never forget that the words "discipline" and "disciple" come from the same root, and that a disciple of Christ is what he is because of God's forgiveness. This must be the process happening at home and at school. B. RULES OF CONDUCT The basic rule for Peace Lutheran School is God's rule of love in Christ Jesus. In following Him we want to show respect for ourselves, teachers, students, and property. Such respect demands that we: - be honest at all times. - touch others only in appropriate ways, whether with hands, feet, or objects. - obey anyone in authority without showing disrespect in words, tone, or actions. - avoid disturbing others with noise, tardiness, running, or other distraction. - maintain cleanliness and
clean up messes whether caused by you or someone else.
-Cooperate and work together to learn and achieve goals. C. STEPS OF DISCIPLINE In dealing with problems of discipline, the following steps will be followed: 2. Parent(s) are informed of the problem. 3. Principal and parent(s) are informed of the continuing problem. 4. If the problem persists, the student will be
temporarily suspended from classes and may ultimately be expelled from the
school. 2. Theft - the act of dishonestly acquiring, and/or knowingly and willfully having in possession, the property of another or others. 3. Arson - the intentional wrongful burning of, or attempt to burn, any building, contents, or property on school or church property, or at a school function. 4. Physical Assault/Battery - the act of intentionally touching another individual in a wrongful manner on school property, going to or from school, or at a school function. 5. Fighting - the act of quarreling, which may include fisticuffs or other wrongful bodily contact, on school property or at a school function. 6. Sexual Harassment - unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that substantially interferes with an individual peace and happiness at school or at a school function, or which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment at school or at a school function. 7. Threats - the act of intentionally threatening another individual's mental or physical well-being, or willfully causing fear or apprehension in another, whether by words, graphic depiction, or conduct. 8. Bullying - the act of intentionally intimidating, harassing, or demeaning another student, by words or conduct. 9. Insubordination - the willful failure to obey a reasonable request by a staff member or other person placed in a position of authority. 10. Vandalism - the act of willful destruction of school or church property or property belonging to another or others on school property or at a school function. 11. Profanity and Obscenity - the act of using profane or obscene language (oral or written), gestures, pictures, or conduct on school property or at a school function. 12. Weapons and Incendiary Devices - the act of possessing, using, or threatening to use any weapon (gun, knife, explosive device, etc.), or wrongfully possessing, using, or threatening to use any other instrument capable of inflicting bodily injury. The possession of matches, lighter, fireworks, ammunition, explosive device, or other incendiary device, even if no fire occurs. 13. Controlled Substances - the possession, use, or transfer of drugs, alcoholic beverages, or other controlled substances as well as the wrongful possession, use, or transfer of other substances that alter behavior (e.g. glue-sniffing). Any substance that mimics a controlled substance (e.g. near beer) is also included. 14. Tobacco - the possession, use, or transfer of tobacco in any form. 15. Disruption - the continued disruption of the educational process or the continued disruption of orderly procedures involved in any school activity. E. RESULTS OF MISCONDUCT 1. Admonition - A warning to the student with notification to the parent(s). 2. Separation from Class - The student is separated from the class for a period of time determined by the teacher or principal (if involved). 3. In-School Suspension - The student is suspended from classes but remains in the building under supervision. The parent(s) or legal guardian is notified and the suspension is recorded on the students' permanent record. 4. Suspension - The student is removed from class for the balance of the school day, and the student shall after a decision by the principal be suspended from attending school for a specified period of one to five school days. A meeting is held between the student, parent(s), teacher (if involved), and the principal as soon as possible to discuss the nature and severity of the matter, and to take steps to ensure that no further misconduct will occur, and the principal solely shall make a determination as to an appropriate term of suspension. The suspension is recorded on the student's permanent record. 5. Automatic Suspension - Misconduct which is determined by the principal, after consultation with the teacher (if involved), to be particularly serious, or a threat to the well-being of others, may result in an automatic suspension of up to five days. The student is removed from class for the balance of the school day, and suspension shall commence the next school day following the incident. A meeting shall thereafter be held between the student, parent(s), teacher (if involved), and principal as soon as possible after suspension is imposed to discuss the nature and severity of the matter, and to take steps to ensure that no further misconduct will occur. The suspension is recorded on the student's permanent record. 6. Expulsion - Defined as the removal of a student from the school for a minimum of the remainder of the school year. The principal will set up a meeting with the student, parent(s), teacher (if involved), and the Board for Christian Day School. After hearing the evidence, and having given all concerned the opportunity to speak, the Board for Christian Day School will determine whether or not the student will be expelled. The student will be suspended until this hearing is held and a determination by the Board for Christian Day School is made. 7. Law Enforcement - In appropriate cases, a referral of the matter to law enforcement authorities also may be made. 2. Running in the school building is not permitted at any time. 3. Gum chewing is not permitted anywhere in the building or on school grounds at any time. 4.. Children moving in organized groups from place to place in the building are asked to do so quietly and orderly. 5. All children are expected to keep school and church property neat and clean. 6. Washrooms, corridors and locker rooms are not to become places for congregating and loitering. 7. All children are expected to leave the building and grounds promptly after dismissal. The only students remaining past 3:20 P.M. should be in scheduled activities or by special arrangement. 8. Snowballing is not permitted on the school grounds or in the general school vicinity, including during non-school hours (e.g. evening activities). 9. Children are not to leave school grounds during the day without written permission. Parents picking up children during school hours must do so at the child's classroom after completing sign-out in the office. 10. It is the duty of all teachers to correct any child out of order. G. NUISANCES Such things as comic books, objectionable magazines, CDs, squirt guns, and the like are not to be brought to school. Such articles will be confiscated and my not be returned. The use of certain of these items at school for educational purposes must have the approval of the teacher.
VIII. WORSHIP SERVICES A. CHAPEL Each week grades one through eight meet together in the church for a worship service. The service is usually on Wednesday at 8:20 A.M. The exception would be special occasions such as Maundy Thursday, Ascension, etc., when the week's worship would be held on those special days. The services are conducted by staff personnel or individual classes. Offerings are gathered at the services for special mission and home projects. Parents and friends are encouraged to attend these services and worship with us. B. CHRISTMAS SERVICE Students in Kindergarten through eighth grade annually present a Christmas worship service for the congregation prior to Christmas. All students are expected to take part in this service. C. WEEKEND WORSHIP Peace Lutheran Church provides an opportunity to worship on Sunday mornings at 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 A.M. The 11:00 A.M. service uses a more contemporary format. A 7:00 P.M. youth service is also available on Sunday evening. In addition, a traditional service is also available on Monday evenings at 6:30 P.M. as well as a Vintage service which is held on Saturday evenings at 6:30 P.M. at the Lawndale campus. Regular family attendance at these services is an essential part of the worship life of every Christian family. Our school choirs take part in some of these services.
IX. MISCELLANEOUS A. HEALTH AND SAFETY SERVICES A systematic program of vision and hearing testing is conducted by the County Health Department. Regular visits are made by our school nurse to check on the general health of our students. All immunizations required and made available to all children as a public service are likewise available to our students. If a child contracts certain communicable diseases (pink eye, impetigo, etc.) he may not attend school until the doctor has granted permission. B. MEDICATION No kind of medication, including aspirin, shall be dispensed by school personnel. When a child is in need of medication, parents should notify the school in writing that the child be allowed to take the medicine at school. Such medication will be stored in the school office. C. DRESS CODE In order to maintain an efficient educational climate,
a dress code is enforced. The current dress code is printed in Appendix
B. D. TELEPHONE The phone number of our school is 792-2581. Parents are kindly requested to use their good judgment in calling teachers and students, and when possible, should be directed to the teacher's voicemail by phoning 792-8266 and following the voice mail prompt menu. Teachers will check their voice mail messages throughout the day and students may return calls at an appropriate time. Only in cases of extreme emergency should a teacher or pupil be called to the phone. Please remember that each phone call to a classroom involves an interruption in the student's education. The school secretary is available daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The phone in our school office is not a "pay phone", but each student using it for outgoing calls is expected to pay the office $.10 per call. Permission to use the phone must be obtained from the child's teacher. E. PICTURES A photograph of each student will be taken in the fall for records purposes. Copies of these photographs may be purchased from the photographer. F. YEARBOOK A school yearbook is published each spring. It includes individual pictures of students as well as various school activities. G. PARENT. S NEWS A "School Notes" is published monthly in the church "Prints of Peace" and contains information appropriate to school life. Each week a "Panther Prints" is sent home with the youngest child to make parents aware of the upcoming activities. H. PARENT- TEACHER LEAGUE Our school is affiliated with the National Lutheran Parent-Teacher League and holds regular meetings throughout the year. The PTL serves to bring families together for sharing and Christian fellowship. Fundraisers are conducted to raise funds for programs and for school improvement. I. LOST AND FOUND Each year various items of clothing and other belongings accumulate here at school, because they were either misplaced or neglected. Parents are urged to label all clothing so there is minimum confusion as to the owner, and please insist that your child brings home all items each night. Unclaimed articles are sent to a charitable institution at the end of the school year. J. PRE-SCHOOL Our school maintains a co-op pre-school program for 3 and 4 - year olds. If interested, contact the school for more information. This program is supported by a tuition fee charged both members and non-members. K. HOT LUNCH A daily hot lunch program is provided through the Saginaw Township Community Schools Food Service Department. Menus are published on a monthly basis. Money for multiple meals may be added to a student's hot lunch card on the first day of the week. Those wishing to do so should put the proper amount of money in an envelope with the student's name and class on the outside of the envelope. This envelope is to be given to the teacher at the beginning of the school day. The teacher will have the cards available at lunch time. Checks should be made payable to "Peace Lutheran Food Service". Students may also pay the cashier on a daily basis. If a student fails to have money or a ticket on a given day, the student may receive lunch on a charge basis. The student will be asked to fill out forms recording the charge which will include a notice to the parent that the charge was made. That charge needs to be paid the next school day. L. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE As Christians we are bound by what our Lord tells us in Holy Scripture. In Matthew 18:15 Jesus said, "If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you." Thus, the first step whenever there is a disagreement involves working directly with the person involved. If that does not resolve the issue, other people are available to help. Students certainly have the opportunity to request their teacher's help. The principal may be contacted for help with issues that are not resolved previously. Some items that cannot be dealt with in other ways may be brought to the attention of the School Board. Since their area of responsibility involves the policies of the school, things referred to them should deal with a policy concern. M. PARKING Student Drop-off and Pickup O. DISMISSAL DURING SCHOOL DAY Occasionally it becomes necessary for a student to leave school during the school day. At such times it is necessary for the parent or other adult providing transportation to come into the building for the student. If the child is ill, he/she will usually be in the school office. Otherwise the adult should go to the child's classroom. This helps us to know who is picking up the child and that the child did indeed leave with an adult. A sign-out sheet is maintained in the school office for this purpose. P. FUND-RAISERS Any fund-raising activities of the school or any
related group (Eighth grade, PTL, Athletic Association, etc.) must have
the approval of the Principal before any commitments are made or
information made public. Fund-raisers where someone connected to Peace
(faculty, staff, parent, etc.) would make a personal profit will not be
considered. Rebates and cash gifts are to be included in the funds for
which the fund-raiser was intended. Merchandise gifts may be kept by the
person responsible for the fund-raider or the person doing the major work
on the project. If a merchandise gift can be used as reward to
participants, that should be done. email: Peace Lutheran School |
