Handbook

Table of Contents:

  1. Guiding Principles
  2. Virtues of Life
  3. Student and Parent Pledges
  4. School Days
  5. Snow and Emergency Days
  6. Home and School
  7. School Board
  8. Admission Policy
  9. Immunizations and Physical Examination
  10. Student Information (attendance, personal conduct, and classroom expectations)
  11. Children Who are Home Schooled
  12. Hot Lunch
  13. Medication
  14. Insurance
  15. Visitors
  16. Homemade Foods
  17. Discipline Policy
  18. Courses Offered for Grades 9 to 10
  19. Ski Program
  20. Sixth Grade Outdoor School
  21. Financial Information
  22. School Related Misunderstandings
  23. Statement of Notification

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Guiding Principles



Co-operating together, students, parents and staff fulfill the mission by:
  1. Developing a personal relationship with our God and Saviour and sharing that relationship with others
  2. Discovering and applying the principles of scripture.
  3. Developing and maintaining trust in all relationships.
  4. Developing and demonstrating the Virtues for Life
  5. Recognizing that the success of the group depends upon the contribution of each individual.
  6. Choosing reasonable actions and attitudes that result in privilege and freedom.
  7. Experiencing the joy of prayer and growing in God's Grace.

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Virtues of Life

VIRTUES FOR LIFE:

The moral excellence & purity of spirit that radiates from my life as I obey God's word.

Christian Faith Personal Best Integrity Seeking Others Best Respect
forgiveness creativity truthfulness love discretion
wisdom self-control responsibility compassion gratefulness
obedience initiative dependability flexibility attentiveness
patience determination sincerity sensitivity punctuality
contentment organization stewarship
joyfulness thoroughness
reflective thinking
sense of humor

CHRISTIAN FAITH

forgiveness: Healing others by using their offenses as a means of expressing to them Christ's love.

wisdom: Seeing and responding to life situations from God's frame of reference.

obedience: Freedom to be creative under the protection of divinely appointed authority.

patience: Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it.

contentment: Realizing God has provided everything I need for my present happiness.

joyfulness: Exulting in my inward being as a result of my genuine harmony with God and others.

RESPECT

discretion: Timing words, actions and attitudes to accomplish desirable results.

gratefulness: Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life.

attentiveness: Showing the worth of a person, idea or object by giving sincere attention to details.

punctuality: Showing high esteem for other people and their time.

INTEGRITY

truthfulness: Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts.

responsibility: Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me.

dependability: Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice.

sincerity: Doing what is right with transparent motives.

stewardship: Demonstrating God's ownership in my life.

SEEKING OTHERS BEST

love: Giving to other's basic needs without having personal reward as my motive.

compassion: Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others.

flexibility: Allowing others the freedom to adjust my plans and ideas.

sensitivity: Exercising my senses so that I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me.

PERSONAL BEST

creativity: Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective.

self-control: Yielding my personal rights and adjusting my behavior to the initial promptings of God's spirit.

initiative: Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it.

determination: Using all my energies to accomplish God's best regardless of the opposition.

organization: Planning, arranging, and implementing in an orderly way; for greatest efficiency.

thoroughness: Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected.

reflective thinking: Thinking effectively to meet a challenge or to develop God's vision in my life.

sense of humor: Adjusting my attitude to lift the spirit of others.

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Parent and Student Pledges

Student Pledge


I accept that my participation at Tualatin Valley Junior Academy is a privilege. I have read and understand the Mission Statement, Guiding Principles and Virtues of Life. I pledge myself to apply the Guiding Principles in my life and conduct. It is my desire to actively develop the character traits found in the Virtues of Life. I choose to uphold school policies at all school functions and live by the guidelines of this handbook and any other regulations which may be deemed necessary by the Administration or School Board.

I understand that my attendance at Tualatin Valley Junior Academy is conditional upon keeping my commitment. If I make choices contrary to this commitment, I will actively cooperate with the redemptive discipline process of this school.

Parent Pledge


I have read the Handbook and am in agreement with the Mission Statement, Guiding Principles, and Virtues of Life. I will actively support these and the regulations in the Handbook or others deemed necessary by the Administration or School Board. I pledge myself to work with the school not only to meet these goals, but to maximize the educational experience. My financial obligation is clearly understood and I agree to pay my child's account each month unless I arrange otherwise with the school administration or financial committee in advance.

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School Day


Regular School hours for Grades k-2 are:

Monday - Thursday
8:30 am to 3:00 pm
Fridays
8:30 am to 2:00 pm

Students should not arrive before 8:15 am and should leave school grounds by 3:15 pm. Students who have not been picked up by 3:15 will be sent to latch key.

Regular School hours are for Grades 3-6 :

Monday - Thursday
8:30 am to 3:15 pm
Fridays
8:30 am to 2:15 pm

Students should not arrive before 8:15 am and should leave school grounds by 3:30 pm. Students who have not been picked up by 3:30 will be sent to latch key.

Regular School hours for Grades 7-10 are:

Monday - Thursday
8:30 am to 3:00 pm
Fridays
8:30 am to 2:00 pm


Junior high students need to be picked up as soon as possible after school as there is no supervision provided.

Latchkey (AM-PM) is available for grades k-6 (for a fee). Latch key hours are 6:30 am to 6:00 pm M-TH and 6:30 am to 5:30 pm on Fridays. There is a fee for this service.

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Snow and Emergency Days


Whenever unusual weather creates hazardous road conditions, TVJA follows closure/delays of the Hillsboro School District. In case of a two-hour delay, school will begin at 10 am.

Home and School


The Home and School Association is TVJA's parents organization. It serves to draw the Home, Church and School closer together into a positive working relationship that fosters a cooperative and understanding spirit toward the total school program. It coordinates our student advocate program, Art Smart, and special events and fund raising campaigns.

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School Board


The Board of Trustees, which is charged with the general management of the school, is made up as follows:
  1. The Educational Superintendent of the Oregon Conference of designee.
  2. The Principal of the school.
  3. The Treasure of the school
  4. The Pastoral staff of each constituent church, sharing one vote.
  5. One member from each constituent church.
  6. One additional member from each constituent church for each 200 members, or a fraction thereof.
  7. The Home and School Association Leader

School board meetings are typically held on the third Monday of the month, and are open to parents and constituency except when the board is in executive session.
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Admission Policy


  1. It is the policy of Tualatin Valley Junior Academy to admit students of any race, ethnic background, gender, or religious beliefs who are willing to support the principles and regulations of the school.
  2. All student applications will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee before acceptance. New students in grades 5-10 must have a personal interview with the principal prior to being accepted. An applicant's acceptance will be based on previous academic records and personal references.
  3. The school reserves the right to evaluate any student before placement in grade level. Students in Kindergarten and First Grade must meet the following age requirements and be evaluated.
    Kindergarten 5 years old by September 1
    First Grade 6 years old by September 1


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Immunization


Oregon state law requires all students in grades k-12 to submit proof of immunization against polio, diphtheria, tetanus, measles. mumps, varicella, Hepatitis B, and rubella at the time of registration in order to be admitted to school. Certificate of Tuberculosis Status is required on all foreign born students enrolling in an Oregon school for the first time.

Physical Examination


All new students and all students entering Kindergarten or Grades 1, 4, and 7 are required to have a physical and dental examination. Necessary forms are available with the school enrollment forms and should be presented upon registration.


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Student Information


Attendance and Punctuality

Personal Conduct and Classroom Expectations
The following guidelines for student behavior have been established:

  1. I will be courteous and responsible for my actions.
    Use appropriate language; display personal integrity; be respectful of adults and peers.
  2. I will respect the learning environment.
    Refrain from bringing to school:
    • Personal electronics
    • Skateboards, inline skates, skate shoes, scooters, ect.
    • Inappropriate reading and listening materials
    • Anything that distracts from the learning process.
  3. I will support a safe school environment.
    • I will not bring weapons such as but not limited to: knives, firearms, or explosives. Possession of these items at school or at school sponsored activities may result in my dismissal.
    • TVJA reserves the right to search lockers and personal belongings for objects or materials deemed non-compliant with the schools' policies, or which threaten the safety of other students. Confiscated property may be returned at the discretion of the school administration.

    The dress and grooming of TVJA students should reflect principles that demonstrate our Christian school community.
    It should be clean, modest, functional and appropriate for each school-sponsored activity.

    As a Christian school we can maintain a high standard of modest dress that will promote Christian choices yet allows freedom of expression.

    I will come to school well groomed and appropriately dressed for the business of school. I am a walking billboard for God, not for gangs, alcohol, drugs, profanity, or sex. I will be sure that any messages on belongings reflect Christian standards. What I wear will honor Christ in the image I portray to others.

  4. We will be known for modesty.
    • Shorts may be worn if they are mid-thigh length or longer
    • Dresses and skirts should be no shorter than the top of the knee
    • Sheer, tight, or revealing clothing is not permitted
    • Shirts and tops should be long enough to keep the midriff covered at all times
    • Tank tops and spaghetti straps are not appropriate
    • Necklines and backs should be modest
    • Only modestly-cut one piece bathing suits are acceptable
  5. We will keep the learning environment free of distractions.
    • Hats and sunglasses should not be worn in the building.
    • Extreme hairstyles, hair colors, or fashions are not allowed.
  6. We will be safe.
    • Appropriate footwear should be worn to school, at PE, and on the playground
    • Adequate weather-appropriate clothing shold be worn.
    • Jewelry may not be worn to school
    • Accessories, hairstyles, clothing, or color combinations that are associated with gangs, hate groups or other inappropriate groups are not allowed.
  7. We will look sharp.
    • All clothing should be neat, clean, well-fitted, and in good repair.
    • Oversized clothing is not allowed
    • Undergarments should remain covered at all times.
    • Body stickers, tattoos and excessive makeup are not allowed.
  8. I will practice good health habits.
    • Get plenty of sleep, nutritious food, and exercise; abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
    • Wear appropriate clothing during cold weather; like sweatshirts and/or coats
    • Prescription medication are to be dispensed by the office. A medication form must be on file in the office in order to dispense medication.
    • Stay home when sick to protect teacher and classmates. Remain at home for 24 hours after a temperature of 100 degrees or higher -returns to normal, or after vomiting has stopped. Serious coughing is also cause to remain home.
  9. I will be prepared and have materials ready when class begins.
  10. I will not leave campus during the formal school day. I will remain within my designated areas from the time I am dropped off until the time I am picked up.

Phone calls

Students will be allowed to use the phone in the office and only in emergencies. Calls to students need to be to the office. Messages will be relayed--callbacks will be at the teacher's convenience.

Student Vehicle Policy

Automobiles and motorcycles- students driving automobiles and motorcycles to school must complete an information form, which will be on file in the office. Travel to and from school is NOT COVERED BY SCHOOL INSURANCE.

Illness

The Public Health Dept. informs us of conditions for which children are to be excluded from school until either covered or diagnosed and cleared for inclusion by a physician. Unless otherwise indicated, students are excluded from attendance until they have been free of symptons for 24 hrs. The conditions for exlusion are:

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Home Schooled Children


Tualatin Valley Junior Academy honors and values home school education and wishes to provide opportunities to enrich the home schoolers education through participation in various activities such as:

We are also willing to provide curriculum and instructional help as time permits.
Each child must register and there will be a yearly fee of $75 per child to participate.
A monthly fee of $40 for the first non-academic class (band, choir, art, ect.) and $20 for each additional non-academic class will be charged.
*There will be additional charges for each of the starred activities.
All home schooling students who take advantage of these opportunities must be willing to sign the student pledge and uphold the Christian principles upon which the school is founded.

Hot Lunch


You may purchase monthly or daily tickets from the office prior to school. Vegetarian meal includes milk. Juice is available for students with lactose intolerance. Meals with a drink cost $3.00 for grades k-6 and $3.50 for grades 7-10. A drink is only $0.50. Lunch must be paid for in advance or at time of eating lunch. Students can pay for one lunch at a time or they have the option of purchasing a 10-punch lunch card which is $30 for grades k-6 and $35 for grades 7-10. Checks must be made out to Alicia Bucio. Lunches can NOT be charged.

Medication


Students requiring medication at school, including aspirin and non-aspirin pain relievers, must have a form from the parent or doctor stating that the medication is required and giving a brief description of the medication. Forms are available at the office. The medication must be left at the school office where the student may request it when necessary. Medication must be provided by the parents and must be in its original container.

Insurance


Student insurance premiums are part of the entrance fee. Limited coverage for accidents while the student is traveling to and from school and while he is engaged in a school-sponsored activity is provided. All accidents must be reported to the teacher and the school immediately to qualify for coverage. Should your child get hurt during school activities, your school provides insurance to help with the cost of medical treatment not covered by other insurance you may have. It doe not cover items including, but not limited to, glasses, musical instruments, watches, bicycles, clothing, and money.

Visitors


Parents and students are welcome to visit the school. Persons wishing to visit a classroom should make arrangements at the office ahead of time. Visitors are asked to use the front doors, sign in at the office and wear a visitor/volunteer badge at all times.

Homemade Foods


Due to the concern about Hepatitis in Washington County, any food items brought to school for birthday or special occasions must be commercially prepared.

Discipline Policy


At TVJA our discipline process is founded on the fundamental principle of trust and endeavors to demonstrate the Biblical process of accountability, repentance, reconciliation and restoration. We expect students to accept responsibility for wrong choices and follow the process for redeemeing the damage caused by those choices. Problem solving, observation-response forms, face-to-face meetings and suspspension are componenets of this process.

Formal Disciplinary Action


Christian Conduct: Students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner by refraining from profanity, obscene gestures, and other disrespectful behavior. Harassment, abuse, and/or threats of any kind (as defined in NPUC code 3050:94) will not be tolerated and will be disciplined. Any offense should be reported immediately and will be investigated by the school administration. A written record of the offenses will be kept.

Violent acts or threats of Violence. (bringing firearms etc., other violent acts, verbal or written threats of violence) Any violent act or perceived threats of violence will be treated as serious offences. The parents of the offending student will be notified and the offender will be suspended and sent home pending investigation of the offense. After investigating the situation, if the school chooses to allow the student to return and deems it necessary, the student will not be allowed to re-enter school without a professional psychological evaluation and clearance. The student must also complete the discipline process of the school.

Suspensions or Expulsion. Students involved in the following (whether on or off campus) will be suspended and may be expelled from school: bringing on campus illegal knives, firearms (guns) , or fireworks, or any illegal incident involving these items; use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco; any serious incidence of theft or property damage or any other illegal activity. Students may also be suspended or expelled for lack of academic effort, insubordination; or other serious misconduct.
If action by the faculty or School Board is needed as a result of a suspension, it will be arranged at the earliest opportunity convenient to the members.

Courses Offered for Grades 9 and 10


Grade 9 Grade 10
Bible Bible
English English
Physical Science/Biology Physical Science/Biology
History History
Algebra I/II Geometry
PE Health
Choir/Bells Choir/Bells
Keyboarding/Computer Photo/Media Technology
Publications Publications
Humanities Elective Humanities Elective

Ski Program


Students in grades 7-10 have the option of participating in a ski program at Mt. Hood Meadows for an additional fee. Academic and citizenship grades are considered prior to participation.

Sixth Grade Outdoor School


Students in grade 6 have a four day outdoor school at Camp Tadmor in Lebanon. ODS runs from Sunday to Wednesday, in October.

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Financial Information


Tuition
k (half day) $1,627.00
k (All day)- grades 6 $2,373.00
Grades 7 and 8 $2,948.00
Grades 9 and 10 $3,692.00

A non-refundable charge of $750 per student per year will be added for those who are not members of the Seventh-day Adventist church in the Portland metropolitan area.

Entrance Fees
k (half day & full day)- 5th grade $353
grades 6 $398
Grade 7 $383
Grade 8 $391
Grade 9 $463
Grade 10 $503

Non-refundable entrance fee includes: insurance premium, textbook rental, workbooks, room supplies, library books, A-V aids, PE, and playground supplies, art and science supplies, classroom music, testing, room mother's funds, locker fees, yearbook, fieldtrips, projects and 6th grade Outdoor school.

Discounts
If paid by the 10th of the month billed
1 Student 1%
2 Students 2%
3 Students 8%
4 or More Students 12%

Optional Charges
Handbell Choir Dues
After School Sports
Cafeteria
Lunch, including milk $3 (k-6) $3.50 (7-10)
Drink $.50
Lunch Seconds $1.00

Music Lessons: Fees are set by the instructor.
Piano
Violin
band

Latch Key: AM/PM

Collection Policy

  1. Payment is due on the 10th of the month.
  2. If payment has not been received by the 10th of the month, a letter will be sent requesting immediate payment or for other arrangements to be made.
  3. If satisfactory arrangements are not made by the 30th of the month, a follow up letter will be sent and/or personal contact will be made.
  4. If payment is still not made after 45 days, the child will not be allowed to attend school until satisfactory financial arrangements are made either with Administration or the Accounts Receivable Committee.

Specific Policies

Financial Assistance
All request for financial assistance are to be made to the local pastor and/or church educational committee.

Previous Accounts at TVJA
No one will be admitted to TVJA with a delinquent school account.

Current Accounts at TVJA
A late fee of $20 will be charged to any past due accounts. Parents with an unpaid school bill may be asked to withdraw their child(ren) from school.

Transferring
A student transferring from another school should show, at the time of registration, that the account at the previous school is paid in full.

8th Grade Diplomas
Diplomas will be issued at graduation when the account is paid in full.

Payments
Please make all checks payable to Tualatin Junior Academy or TVJA. A charge of $35 will be made for any check returned due to insufficient funds.

All rates quoted in the handbook are subject to change by the action of the School Board.

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School Related Misunderstandings


Any parent wanting to discuss a concern, misunderstanding, or difficulty should do the following:
  1. Make arrangements to meet with the teacher to resolve the problem. please make an appointment either directly with the teacher or through the school office.
  2. If discussion with the teacher does not adequately resolve the issue, a meeting with the principal and teacher should be arranged.
  3. If meeting with the Principal and the teacher does not reconcile the issue, you may request the matter to be considered by the School Board.

It is our desire to reconcile all difficulties. In order to do this, we ask that you counsel with us on a timely basis.

Statement of Notification
The Federal law requires a public announcement to be given to school patrons regarding any asbestos material in our school. TVJA has been checked by a certified asbestos person. This report is in the school file. This document is available for those wishing to see it. The asbestos in the school is in a non-friable condition and presents no hazard to anyone at the present time. It will be checked at stated periodic intervals to ascertain any changes in the material.
It will be checked in April 2004

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