Student Life Handbook

Middle School

2013-2014

Campus Phone Numbers

Middle School Office: Barb Cochrane (803) 807-4200 School Receptionist: Tracey Ramos (803) 807-4000

Other Important Numbers

Admissions Day Students: Kelly Adams (803) 807-4110 Athletics: Christy Lambert (803) 807-4197 Campus Wear: Sally Settle (803) 807-4132 Events: Kelly Davis (803) 807-4144 FACTS and Tuition Payments: Susan Carpenter (803) 807-4129 Financial Aid: Sheri Burchill (803) 807-4103 Fundraising: Bonnie Spacek (803) 807-4114 Guidance: Wes Hoft (803) 807-4219 Health Services: Michelle Harris (803) 807-4126 Lost and Found: Contact School Office Marketing and Communications: Kyndra Bremer (803) 807-5510 RenWeb: Contact School Office

Office Hours
8 a.m. 4 p.m.

School Hours (Except Mondays)

Monday: Tuesday Friday: 9:10 a.m. 3:15 p.m. 8:10 a.m. 3:15 p.m.

Ben Lippen has late start for all students every Monday. School begins one hour later and ends at the regular time. This allows the faculty and staff time for professional development.

Table of Contents
Ben Lippen School Mission Statement 3 Welcome 3 Primary Expectations of a Ben Lippen Student 4 Spiritual Life Expectations 5 Discipline and Conduct 5 Interpersonal Relationships 8 Media Standards 9 Attendance 9 Technology Policy 11 Campus Wear 12 Lunch 13 Care of Property 13 Lockers/Cubicles/Bookbags 13 Library 14 Safety Considerations 14 Security 14 Health Requirements and Services 14 CIU Campus 15 Academic Information 15 Cheating and Plagiarism 16 Guidance Services 17 Conferences and Addressing Problems 17 Communication 17 Visitors and Guests 17 Volunteers 18 School Closing 18 School Records 18 Withdrawal Procedures 18 Supplementary Education Program 18 Financial Policies and Procedures 18 Middle School Handbook Commitment Form 20

Ben Lippen School Mission Statement

Ben Lippen School seeks to glorify God by assisting the family and church in equipping students spiritually, academically, and socially under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Ben Lippen Middle School Mission Statement

Ben Lippen Middle School seeks to engage, encourage, equip, and energize students by providing a biblically integrated, developmentally appropriate curriculum, which is relevant in its application and delivered in a challenging, compassionate, and Christ-centered environment.

Welcome
Welcome to Ben Lippen Middle School! We believe that a developmental approachboth in philosophy and practiceis essential in the education of the pre-adolescent. Therefore we place emphasis on the spiritual, academic, and social development of our students (Luke 2:52). The Middle School period is unique in its characteristics, areas of growth and change, and areas of needit is therefore vital that students are taught from a foundation of Biblical truth. This foundation of truth becomes the basis from which students develop a Biblical worldview. The primary means of accomplishing this is through what is at the heart of Kingdom education, the Biblical integration of Gods truth within every discipline and activity of the school. The Middle School faculty, staff, and administration are pleased to partner with you in the pursuit of Kingdom education and the development of Christian Scholars. Sincerely,

Mr. Jay Sikkema Ben Lippen Middle School Principal

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy Ben Lippen School admits students of any race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship program, athletic or other school-administered programs.

Primary Expectations of a Ben Lippen School Student

Ben Lippen students RESPECT others, authority, self, and property. Ben Lippen students are open to differences in others (cultural, age, gender, religion, etc.) and purpose to interact with all types of people while taking care to communicate respectfully (Philippians 2:3). Ben Lippen students are personally RESPONSIBLE for their own behavior and learning, as well as exercising self control over their actions and words. Ben Lippen students voluntarily follow Ben Lippen rules, willingly devote themselves to learning, and fulfill their responsibilities without being asked or reminded regardless of whether they will be held accountable for their actions. Ben Lippen students respond to both correction and consequence with a repentant attitude when correction is necessary (Titus 2:12; 2 Timothy 1:7). Ben Lippen students demonstrate personal INTEGRITY by pursuing a wholeness of character, action, and thought, filtering personal choices through the lens of what is morally and justly right in Gods eyes. Ben Lippen students do not lie, cheat, or steal, and they show moral integrity in their relationships with others including matters of sexual purity and propriety (Proverbs 22:1). Ben Lippen students practice good STEWARDSHIP and are responsible to oversee, preserve, protect, and use wisely all resources God has provided them: Gods creation, the Ben Lippen campus and community, their physical bodies, their finances, and their relationships with others (Colossians 3:23-24). Ben Lippen students show COMPASSION and care in their relationships with others. They are sympathetic and empathetic in their response to the needs of others. Ben Lippen students treat others as they wish to be treated and consider the needs of others before they consider their own (Ephesians 4:32; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14).

Spiritual Life Expectations

Ben Lippen does not intend to take the place of the local church. Instead, we hope to come along side our students and support what they are learning in church. For that reason, we have established the following guidelines: Quiet Time Developing the habit of meeting with God each day in Bible reading, meditation, and prayer can be the most important thing one learns while at BLS (Psalm 1:2; James 4:8; Mark 1:35). Church Attendance and the Sabbath Day Regular attendance at a local church is expected of all BLS students. Participation in other activities of the church is highly encouraged (Hebrews 10:25). Additionally, while BLS is a busy, hard-working community throughout the work week, it seeks to make the Sabbath day a special day in which we spend more time in quiet rest, worship, and service for our Lord (Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27-28). Chapel Chapel is required for all students. Chapel is generally held once a week for the purpose of worship and spiritual challenge. Faithful Performance A Christian seeks to live a life honoring to Christ out of gratitude for what Christ has done for him. While riches and blessings are not the proper motivation for faithful service, Scripture teaches of the eternal rewards Christ gives to His children. We also seek to express our appreciation to those students who are doing well and to encourage those attempting to put forth their best efforts. Recognition is given to students for exemplary performance in academics, athletics, and other cocurricular activities throughout the school year.

Discipline and Conduct

God commands children to obey their parents and those in authority (Col 3:20; Heb 13:17). By enrolling their children in the school, parents delegate aspects of their God-given authority for their children to the teachers and administrators. Disciplinary Procedures The Ben Lippen Middle School discipline and conduct policy operates under the premise that it is a privilege and not a right to be a student at Ben Lippen School. Students are expected to exhibit behavior that is supportive of Ben Lippen Schools mission and core values. Verbal warning and counsel from a faculty member are the first course of action. Behavioral Reports are issued by faculty to students for offenses. Behavioral Reports are then completed through RenWeb, a copy of the report, including the offence, the number of demerits assigned and the resulting consequence is emailed to the parent. The number of demerits assigned for each report depends on the seriousness and/or frequency of the offense. The Middle School campus is gum free. Detention Hall is automatically assigned for any student chewing gum. An accumulation of demerits will typically have the following results: 6 demerits Detention Hall assigned. 12 demerits Detention Hall assigned. 18 demerits Saturday Detention assigned. Additional violations- administrative action (including conference with parents, additional Saturday detention, in-school or out-of-school suspension, behavioral probation, or expulsion depending on the seriousness of the offenses and the attitude of the student);

Detention Hall (D-Hall) Students are required to attend D-Hall when assigned. Students will be allowed to reschedule a D-Hall one time during each marking period. Practices for a sport are not an excuse to miss D-Hall. To reschedule a D-Hall students should contact the office. If a student misses D-Hall an additional D-hall will be assigned. D-Hall sessions will be held every Tuesday and Thursday as necessary from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday Work Detail Students assigned to a Saturday Work Detail will meet from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Manual labor and/ or academic work will be assigned. Students who are assigned Saturday Work Detail will be charged $30 to defray the cost of supervision. If a student fails to show up for a Saturday Work Detail the student will likely be assigned an in-school or out-of-school suspension. In-School and Out-of-School Suspension Students may receive a varying number of days of suspension depending on the seriousness of the offense(s). The student is expected to maintain his/her classroom work and additional work will be assigned; typically however, no credit will be received for any work missed during the suspension period. Additionally, students who are involved in any co-curricular or athletic activity are not permitted to participate during the suspension period, including events, games, meetings or practices. Suspension can be expected for such offenses as, but not limited to, the following: Cutting school or class Disrespect to a faculty member Excessive violations Fighting Foul, abusive, or crude language and/or gestures Lying or cheating Missing Saturday Detention Plagiarism Possession of pornographic material Possession or use of tobacco products Sexual harassment Vandalism Behavioral Probation Behavioral probation may be applied at the discretion of the principal. Behavioral probation can be expected for, but not limited to, the following: the student has demonstrated a pattern of disobedience or insubordination. the student has demonstrated an unrepentant and/or negative attitude. the student has committed a single major offense. The conditions of such probation would likely include, but are not limited to, the following: weekly meeting with the principal or guidance counselor. suspension from participation in all or specific athletic and/or extra-curricular activities. Additional conditions may be applied at the principals discretion. The probation period will be for a period of time designated by the principal. Behavioral Contract Students, who demonstrate a pattern of disobedience or insubordination, and a habitual unrepentant and/or negative attitude, will likely be required to sign a Behavioral Contract, along with their parents and the principal. Signing this document indicates the students commitment to change and subsequently applying themselves to the behaviors and attitude to which God has called them. This contract will indicate the specific area(s) being addressed and the time frame for monitoring

and evaluating the students progress. Not honoring the contract would likely result in the students dismissal from the school. Expulsion A student who has demonstrated an unwillingness to cooperate with the school through habitual disobedience and insubordination by maintaining an unrepentant, negative attitude or through any single major disciplinary offense, may be dismissed from Ben Lippen School. Immediate out-of-school suspension and possible expulsion may be expected from the following offenses: Possession of knives, firearms, or any other weapons on campus, or at any school function Possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and/or abuse of prescription or nonprescription drugs on or off campus Any misdemeanor or felony on or off campus Sexual immorality on or off campus Communicating a threat to another person or the BLS community The administration may, at its own prerogative, choose to allow a student to withdraw in lieu of expulsion if circumstances warrant. A student who has been expelled may apply to return to BLS after one full semester. Evidence of changed behavior and positive references will be considered in a re-application, but there is no guarantee of re-admission. Disciplinary Appeals A student may appeal any disciplinary action after the student has spoken directly with the faculty member or administrator who assigned the consequence (in keeping with Matthew 18). This gives the student an opportunity to explain the circumstances and listen to the faculty members response. If the student still wishes to appeal, an appeal can be submitted to the principal. Suspensions may be appealed to the headmaster. Expulsions may be appealed to the headmaster and a committee of the board of directors. Other Discipline Matters Being a party to anothers wrongdoing is just as serious as actually committing the offense. Actions such as hiding something for someone, concealing the truth to protect another person, giving or selling illegal or unacceptable items to someone, and enticing others to do something against the rules are subject to disciplinary action; For the safety of all, school authorities, campus security, or local authorities have the right to search the locker, car, or possessions of any student on campus. Drug Testing Ben Lippen reserves the right to drug test any student at any time. Repentance and Reconciliation When a student voluntarily chooses to come forward and confess to a faculty member his/her involvement in a misdemeanor or felony on or off campus, the opportunity for reconciliation is available. Consequences (such as suspension, random drug testing, counseling and accountability) can be expected with offenses, but as fruits of repentance are evident, students who have confessed and repented may be allowed to continue their enrollment at BLS upon evaluation by the administration. Students who commit offenses which endanger others on campus (such as verbal threats, possessing weapons, firearms, alcohol or illegal drugs) are not offered continued enrollment.
7

Merit System Merits are given for the following: Fulfillment of domestic duties (one per year). Participation in co-curricular activities (up to three per year). Academic achievement making Honor Roll (up to two per year). Parental attendance at certain school functions. Merits are also awarded to students for exemplary behavior, or behavior which goes above and beyond the call of duty. Merits earned or awarded are recorded within RenWeb under student behavior. Merits may be used to acquire an additional day of excused absence (see Campus Day Pass). In addition, students who earn or are awarded merits will have the opportunity to redeem these at the Merit Redemption Store. Merits are cumulative in the Middle School but do not carry over to the High School.

Interpersonal Relationships
BLS desires that every student learn to develop healthy relationships. Inappropriate touching (including hand holding, hugging, kissing, etc.) is not acceptable (II Timothy 2:22). This expectation is applicable on campus and at all BLS activities. Additionally, students should exercise proper postures and positions while in the presence of others to maintain modesty. Dating Dating or going out in the middle school is strongly discouraged. Any of the language or activities promoting, involving, or connected to dating or going out, including the spending of an undo amount of time together, are not permitted on campus or at middle school activities. Social Restriction Violation of the no touch policy, or relationships/friendships that are perceived to be unhealthy or are heading in an unhealthy direction may result in a social restriction placed on the persons involved. This restricts any social contact between the persons involved while on campus or attending BLS activities. Sexual Immorality While enrolled at BLS, all students are expected to exhibit purity in their relationships. BLS retains the right to refuse enrollment or expel any student who engages in sexual immorality (I Corinthians 6:18), including any student who is a professing or practicing homosexual, bisexual, or transgendered person, as well as any student who supports or otherwise promotes such practices (Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:27). Harassment Policy We protect the right of every student to have an environment that respects human dignity. Harassment of students is contrary to Scripture, morally wrong, and illegal. We expressly forbid sexual harassment (opposite sex or same sex) or any threatening and offensive conduct or expressions with respect to gender, race, color, national origin, disability, or age. Harassment can include a pattern of remarks, gestures, jokes, physical contact, teasing, excessive attention, bullying, picture or written material that you find personally threatening, derogatory, offensive, or unwanted. Sometimes individuals responsible for these actions may not know that they are offensive; you should tell them and your teacher. Any student initiating or persisting in any form of harassment verbal, physical, or visual is subject to immediate discipline by the principal.

If you find your environment hostile or offensive, if you believe you have been harassed by another student, or if you know someone who has, please promptly report this to your teacher. All reports will be thoroughly reviewed and investigated in as confidential manner as circumstances permit, and the appropriate action will be taken. If you are dissatisfied with the investigation or action taken, you should bring the matter to the principal.

Media Standards
Media that is not consistent with Christian living is not to be brought onto campus. Faculty and administrative discretion will be the guiding factor in determining the appropriateness of any media item. Movie Guidelines PG-13 and R rated movies are not permitted on campus or at any BLS sponsored activity unless approved by the administration. BLS students are not permitted to view movies rated NC-17 and X. Music Guidelines Middle School students are not permitted to use personal listening devices during school hours. Music with inappropriate lyrics or themes is not permitted on campus or at school events.

Attendance
Time of School Day Students should not arrive at school earlier than 7:30 a.m. A faculty member is on duty at 7:45 a.m. The classrooms open at 8:00 a.m. and close at 4:00 p.m. Waiting for rides should be done outside, in the breezeway, or in the gymnasium building lobby. Classes begin at 8:10 a.m. and end at 3:15 p.m. Mondays there is a delayed start; classes begin at 9:10 a.m. and end at 3:15 p.m. Students are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without permission. If written permission has been granted by the parent to leave campus, the student must also be signed out at the school office. Students staying on campus after school hours must do so for a specific purpose such as library study, athletic practices or events, music or drama practices, or school-sponsored social events. All students not required to be on campus for a specific activity should be off the campus by 4:15 p.m. Late Arrival Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. should go directly to the office and sign in before going to their scheduled class. Students arriving late to school will not be allowed into class unless they have a pass from the office. Tardies Each student is allowed five unexcused tardies in a nine-week period. Six unexcused tardies results in a Detention Hall being assigned. Unexcused tardies beyond 6 will result in additional consequences. Absences will be excused under these conditions: Illness Marriage in the immediate family Death in the immediate family Medical or dental appointments Use of the Ben Lippen merit system

Students are permitted 2 excused absences per semester for planned activities outside of the reasons given above. Absences beyond the 2 which are permitted or outside of the reasons listed above are considered unexcused, and may result in academic penalty, though the final decision remains at the discretion of the principal. Campus Day Pass Students who will be absent from school due to a planned activity are required to complete a Campus Day Pass. Prior to the pass being issued, parents are to provide by note or email a brief description of the activity to include the dates of the students absence. Once issued, the Campus Day Pass is to be signed by the teachers of the classes the student will be absent from and returned to the office at least one day prior to the planned absence. With advance permission given merits may be used to receive an excused absence. An excused absence using merits requires six (6) merits for a full-day absence and three (3) merits for a half-day absence. School-Related Absences Students are required to make up work missed during absences resulting from participation in any school-related academic, athletic, or co-curricular activity. Work not required to be made up lies at the discretion and approval of the teacher and principal. Students, who miss school during an entire day or during the afternoon for illness or any unexcused absence, may not practice, play sports or attend any school functions that day. Sickness or Medical Appointments Parents are expected to contact the school office by phone or email no later than 9 a.m. on each day of a students absence due to illness. A note giving the reason for the absence is required from the parents or the doctor when returning after an absence. When leaving campus during the school day, a parental note from home is required unless being signed out by the students parent at the office. The note should be brought to the office in the morning before school begins. Whenever possible medical and dental appointments should be scheduled when school is not in session. Late Work The purpose of late work penalties is to encourage faithfulness and responsibility. Students are encouraged to turn in their work, even if it is late, to demonstrate their mastery of learned content. The standard late work penalty is a grade point reduction of up to 10% per day for three days, after which time, completed work may not count for more than 69% of the original grade for up to two weeks. Work defined as Instructional Strategy Daily Assignment (work related to or applied to the daily classroom curriculum and instruction) does not apply to the above latework policy; it is graded as is at the time it is due. Teachers are not permitted to accept late work during the final week of each quarter without the principals approval. Makeup Work If a student is absent from class for illness, the standard policy is that a one-day extension be given for each day absent, as may be necessary. If a student is absent, he/she is responsible to get the notes and the announcements from other students or ask the teacher for missed work. The student is also responsible to meet with the teacher(s) in order to schedule any necessary make-up work. If a student absence is the result of a planned activity or athletic event the student is responsible to meet with teacher(s) either for work to be completed prior to the absence, and/or schedule any necessary make-up work.
10

Technology Policy
Technology is an integral part of our society and an important tool in education, the workplace, and daily life. As such, BLS embraces and utilizes technology in order to enhance the pursuit of the BLS mission and vision. At the same time, BLS recognizes the need to exercise caution and restraint when technology interferes with the primary expectations of a BLS student. Expectations of Student User The student user of the BLS technology network is expected to regard use of computer network as a privilege. The student user accepts all responsibility for the use of his or her account and therefore, he or she must not allow others to use their individualized network access. Expectations regarding the schools one-to-one program and student use of the school issued iPad are noted in the iPad Acceptable Use Policy. This policy is reviewed and signed by both student and parent at the time the iPad is issued to the student. Expectations for Use through the Authorization of Supervising Faculty Student users may occasionally be granted permission from their supervising faculty member and the director of IT to use the BLS technology network for non-educational activities. Permission must be granted on a per occurrence basis. Legal Expectations Regarding Ben Lippen Schools Liability BLS is legally responsible for the technology network. Because of this, it is expected that student users do not infringe on the copyrighted works of others. This includes plagiarism, file-sharing, fileswapping, and downloading copyrighted materials. BLS reserves the right to monitor the network. The community of users is not to expect privacy in their files which are stored on the technology network. Should a problem arise, BLS will cooperate fully with local, state, and federal officials in all investigations related to any illegal activities conducted through the school technology network. Consequences for Misuse If misuse is suspected, student technology use will be suspended immediately, and student equipment can be confiscated, until clarification and resolution can be reached through the school personnel. Students may be disciplined for misusing school owned technology. They may also be disciplined for inappropriate actions stemming from non-school owned technology use. (example: demeaning statements on Facebook) Cell Phones While students are permitted to have a cell phone, they are not permitted to use or display the phone for any reason during the school day. This rule applies to all and/or any other electronic devices as well. Phones with photo capabilities are never permitted to be used in restrooms or locker room areas. The use or display of any electronic devices will result in the following consequences: 1st offense: device taken, sent to the office and returned to the student at the end of the day. 2nd offense: device taken, and sent to the office to be picked up by a parent of the student. 3rd offense: device taken, and sent to the office to be picked up by a parent of the student Detention Hall assigned. 4th offense: device taken, Detention Hall assigned, student is not permitted to have the device at school for any reason.

11

Campus Wear
It is our desire to create a sense of unity, develop school spirit, and promote a learning environment. To aid in this the school has adopted a campus wear policy. The following criteria provide the basis for the campus wear dress code: Propriety, Modesty, and Neatness. The guidelines listed below address the different areas of the campus wear dress code. Please note that the principal may deem particular items or areas of the dress code as inappropriate although they are not specifically addressed. Ben Lippen requires a campus wear top and bottom for all students. Tops Students must wear a polo shirt, oxford-style shirt, or blouse (girls only) from Lands End with Ben Lippens logo. A maximum of one button may be left unbuttoned at the neck. Bottoms Only pants, skirts (girls only) and shorts purchased from Lands End or specific types of uniforms purchased from Old Navy may be worn. Pants from Old Navys Ladies Perfect Khaki (SKU #s 595183, 675504, 898728, 898027, or 569323) or Mens Classic Khaki collections (SKU #633496) are allowed. The hem of a skirt or a pair of shorts should be to the knee while standing up straight. Students who cannot obtain skirts or shorts that reach to the knee while standing straight should wear khaki pants instead. If an item of clothing has belt loops, students are expected to wear a belt. Belts may be purchased from any store, but must be black, brown, or color-coordinated with the students shirt. Socks and Shoes Socks and shoes may be purchased from any store. Socks should be coordinated with the color of shirt or pants worn by the student. Shoes must be clean and in good repair. Beach-style or bathroom flip-flops, athletic sliders, and slippers (including moccasin style) are not permitted. Outerwear and Heavy Coats All students must wear appropriate campus wear including tops and bottoms (see above), even when wearing BLS-approved outerwear (see below). Outer layer clothing such as sweatshirts, cardigans or other sweaters, hoodies, fleeces, half-zip fleeces, decorative scarves, etc. must bear the BLS logo or otherwise promote BLS athletic teams, clubs, or organizations. All other outerwear, including scarves and hats, should be removed when a student enters a school building and stored in the students locker. Friday Spirit Wear Students are permitted to wear Ben Lippen sanctioned t-shirts on Fridays. The shirt should clearly promote Ben Lippen School. This includes t-shirts which have been purchased through the Spirit Store and/or other sanctioned Ben Lippen venues such as the Booster Club, athletic teams, fine arts, or middle school teams. Students may also wear blue jean pants or shorts on Friday. The pants or shorts do not have to be purchased from Lands End but are to be no shorter than the top of the knee, and are to be in good repair (no rips, tears, frayed edges, excessive wear, or excessive designs). Casual Dress for All Students After School Hours The following guidelines should be observed while on campus after school hours (e.g. athletic practice, athletic events, fine arts performances, and any school-sponsored event): Properly fitted modest jeans Modest athletic shorts may be worn while participating in practice or in a game T-shirts, not undershirts, may be worn. Modest sleeveless shirts are acceptable. Boys may practice on the athletic field without a shirt at a coachs discretion. Shirts are required under all other circumstances on campus, including after athletic practice. Clothing which advertises tobacco, alcoholic beverages, the drug culture, lifestyles or sentiments associated with social or spiritual rebellion, the occult, ungodly music groups, or which has slogans with ungodly or double meanings is never acceptable.

12

Only modest, one-piece swimsuits are allowed for female students at appropriate school trips, events or activities. Modest clothing is expected at all Ben Lippen events. Extremely short shorts and skirts, strapless tops or tops with only skinny straps, etc. do not generally conform to this expectation.

Hair Standard All students are to keep their hair neat and well-groomed. Hair should not cover the eyes. Hair coloring (including highlights or accents) that does not blend with the natural color of the hair is not permitted. Extreme hair styles are not acceptable. Some examples would be hair with shaved portions, spikes and/or ponytails on boys. Boys hair should also not fall below the collar or completely cover the ears. Boys are not permitted to have facial hair. Piercings and Body Art Boys are not permitted to have visible piercings or gauges (gages). Wearing a bandage to cover ear ornamentation is also not allowed. Girls are only allowed to have pierced ears visible. No gauges (gages) are permitted. Visible tattoos or body art are not allowed.

Lunch
Lunch is provided for all students on full school days when school is in session. Food is not to be taken out of the cafeteria during lunch hours. Students should not be in the cafeteria during meal times unless it is their assigned period to eat. Orderliness and good manners are essential to maintaining a pleasant eating environment. Breaking in line, running and loud behavior is not acceptable. Students are expected to demonstrate good stewardship and a grateful attitude by not complaining about or wasting the food that is provided for them. Domestics Every 7th and 8th grade student will have a domestic. A domestic is an assigned responsibility to assist in the functioning and maintaining of the school. Domestic responsibilities are rotated regularly and include serving and cleaning-up after lunch in the cafeteria. Students must arrange for their own substitute when they are unable to do their assignment.

Care of Property
All students, faculty, and staff are stewards of the property of BLS and are responsible for its care. Willful damage to school property or to the property of another student will result in disciplinary action, and the cost of repairing the damage due to willful acts will be charged to the student(s) at fault. Food and drink should only be taken into approved and designated areas. Food or drink from the cafeteria should not be taken into the classroom buildings or the gym.

Lockers/Cubicles/Bookbags
Middle school students are assigned a cubbie in their classroom. Students are responsible for their personal items. While items left in the cubbies are generally secure, students are advised not to leave expensive or valued personal items. Students taking PE or participating will use a locker and are strongly encouraged to lock personal items when the locker is in use. Students may be issued a school lock, or use a personal lock. Lockers used during PE are to be locked for only that period. The locker is to be emptied and left unlocked when the period ends. School issued locks are to be returned at the end of the year.

13

Lockers, cubbies, and bookbags may not include any advertisement or promotion of tobacco, alcohol, illegal substances, non-Christian musical groups, slogans or symbols with ungodly or double meanings.

Library
Checking out and returning books properly and promptly make it possible for everyone to benefit from the library. Overdue notices are sent out to students when books are overdue, and a list of overdue books is published on the student bulletin board. A fine of $.10 per book per day will be charged beginning with the first 3-day overdue notice. If the fines reach $5.00, books may not be checked out until the fine is paid in full. The library is a place for quiet reading, research and study. The library is not an appropriate place for group study.

Safety Considerations
Skateboards and roller blades are not permitted on campus at any time.

Security
Concealed weapons are not permitted on any of the Ben Lippen campuses unless carried by a professional law enforcement or CIU security officer. The phone number for BLS security is (803) 513-3968.

Health Requirements and Services

It is mandatory that the school receive a copy of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control Certificate of Immunization for each new student on or before the first day of school. This form is available at a physicians office or can be obtained from the Health Department if other proof of immunization is provided. Students participating in athletics must receive an annual physical on or after April 1 prior to the start of school. The physical must be recorded on the Athlete Physical Form found on the Ben Lippen website under Student Life - Athletics - Athletic Forms. All students must be covered by health/accident insurance to attend BLS. Families will be asked to submit their insurance company name and policy number or given the option of purchasing insurance through the school. Medication Students may not have medication in their possession at school except their own Epi-Pen, insulin, or rescue inhaler, unless approved by the school nurse. All other medication(s) must be dispensed by the school nurse or her designee. All medication dispensed at school must be in the original container. Prescription medication must be in a current, completely labeled (date, pharmacy, physician, student, medication, full dosing instructions) prescription container. Over-the-counter medication must be in clearly labeled original packaging.
14

A prescription medication authorization form must be filled out by both the parent and the physician when the physician has ordered a medication (prescription or over-the-counter) that will require

in-school administration for an indefinite period of time. However, a prescription medication authorization form is not needed if a medication is to be given for a limited number of days (up to two weeks), as long as the medication is brought to the nurses office in an approved container (see above) and accompanied by a parent note indicating the purpose of the medication and the time(s) it should be given to the student. Services The health services office is open to all Monticello Road day and boarding students during school hours. Please note that the RenWeb Student Medical form must be completed before medication will be dispensed to a student.

CIU Campus
Students are not permitted to be on the campus, or to use the facilities, of Columbia International University without BLS faculty supervision.

Academic Information
RenWeb The internet based school management system used by Ben Lippen is Renaissance Web (RenWeb). It may be accessed through a link on the school webpage or directly at www.renweb.com. Parents and students may access grades, lesson plans, homework assignments, attendance and behavior reports through RenWeb. Academic Assessment BLS seeks to assess and evaluate student academic performance using multiple methods and styles. While some uniformity is needed, teachers are encouraged to exercise professional judgment in developing assessment standards in their courses. All assessment and evaluation procedures are outlined in the syllabus published at the beginning of the course. Academic Grading Scale In 2004, Ben Lippen adopted the South Carolina Uniform Grading Scale (UGS). BLS uses a numeric grading system for report cards and student assignments. 93-100 = A 85-92 = B 77-84 = C 70-76 = D 0-69 = F Academic Probation Academic probation is designed to assist students in becoming more responsive to and responsible for their academic progress. Academic probation also promotes important communication among students, parents, and the school. Academic probation may be invoked throughout the school year and/or as a condition of admittance to the school. Students with cumulative grade averages below 77%, or averages in two or more core subject areas which are below 77%, are subject to consideration for placement on Academic Probation. Athletic and Co-Curricular Eligibility Athletes who complete the school year with a cumulative average of lower than 77% will begin the next school year with the following provisions in effect: Academic status for athletes will be evaluated at each nine-week grading period. All athletes must have a 77% average grade during the grading period being evaluated. Athletes will be suspended from all games if their average is below a 77% (including pep rallies for cheerleaders). Athletes placed on suspension will be re-evaluated five weeks from the first day of a marking period, and at the end of a marking period. Athletes who have a 77% average but have a failing grade in individual subjects will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the athletic director and principal.

15

 Athletes must pass four core subjects each year to participate in athletics. Athletes are required to continue practicing with the team during academic probation. Exams End of semester exams are given in the 7th and 8th grade Algebra I course, the 8th grade Algebra II course, and the 8th grade Physical Science course. Homework Homework is an important aspect of the learning process. It is carefully assigned to help the students gain the most out of their classroom time. All homework is expected to be completed on time, thoroughly and neatly. Homework is assigned Monday through Thursday evenings, with the exception of math homework which may be assigned Friday as well. Honor Roll The middle school honor roll is calculated on the basis of five core classes taken each year. There are three honor rolls in the middle school: Headmasters List 97-100 Principals List 93-96 Honor Roll 88-92 Middle school core courses consist of Bible, English, Math, Social Studies and Science. Report Cards Report cards are done at the completion of each of the 4 marking periods and are accessible through the school online management service RenWeb. Standardized Tests Middle school students take the Terra Nova Achievement Test in April each year. In conjunction with this test, all students also take the InView School Ability Test. Tests and Quizzes A student should regularly have no more than two major tests (additional quizzes are possible) on a normal day. Students are not permitted to request extensions on tests or quizzes because they are not ready to take them (except after an absence due to illness). Major tests are typically not given on Mondays.

Cheating and Plagiarism

BLS expects students to be honest in all their academic work. Students are responsible for their own work. Dishonesty in homework, assignments, examinations, written papers, or any other academic work violates scriptural principles of Christian living and is an offense to fellow students and faculty. Plagiarism, regardless of intent, is the presentation of words or ideas of another as ones own. For example: The words, sentences, ideas, conclusions, examples, and/or organization of an assignment are borrowed from a source (a book, an article, another students paper, tapes, etc.) without acknowledging the source. A student submits work done by another student, in part or whole, as ones own work. A student submits assignments received from commercial firms or any other person or group. A student knowingly aids another student in plagiarizing an assignment as defined above.
16

Plagiarism will result in academic penalty, which may include failure for the assignment, the grading period, or of the course. It may also necessitate further disciplinary action.

Guidance Services
Guidance services seeks to assist students and their parents in discovering the unique calling God has placed on each student. See the Ben Lippen website for additional information.

Conferences and Addressing Problems

Parents are encouraged to communicate directly with their childs teachers, and email or phone is often an efficient way to do this. Parents who would like to arrange a conference with a teacher should make arrangements in advance. During school hours, teachers need their full attention directed toward their students. Please do not drop by class during school hours to talk with your childs teacher(s). When questions or problems arise, in keeping with the principle outlined in Matthew 18, please make arrangements to speak first with the teacher or responsible party. Please refrain from talking to other students, parents, or families about a problem; it can easily become divisive and destructive. If a problem persists after speaking to the responsible party, please make an appointment to speak with the principal, with the teacher or responsible party present.

Communication
Regular forms of communication include the school webpage (www.benlippen.com), RenWeb, and the Talon Times (weekly e-mail). Parents are always welcome to call or email a teacher when necessary; however, parents who would like a conference with a teacher are asked to make arrangements in advance. During school hours, teachers need their full attention directed toward their students. Please do not drop by the class during school hours to talk with the teachers.

Visitors and Guests

BLS permits volunteers and visitors on campus with the following guidelines: Approved volunteers have completed the application procedure (page 9). All school volunteers and visitors are required to report to the office upon arrival to receive an ID sticker. The Ben Lippen security system, Raptor, issues an ID sticker after completion of an instant security check. A valid drivers license is required for the security check to be completed. Before inviting or allowing anyone to be a guest to classes or lunch, students must get permission from the principal. Guests are expected to abide by the guidelines and regulations of the school while on campus. If family members or friends are to eat in the dining room, arrangements should be made one day in advance, if possible. Sometimes students will be asked to host a prospective student during the day. Students are asked to help orient these guests and accompany them through the daily routines of school life.

17

Volunteers
Volunteers must complete a volunteer application and interview as well as submit to a background check before they can be approved to serve the school in any capacity. Volunteer applications are available in the school office.

School Closing
In case of inclement weather or emergency, listen to radio station WMHK (89.7 FM) or to television stations WLTX (channel 19), WIS (channel 10), or WOLO (channel 25) for information regarding school closings.

School Records
Change of Information Please contact the school immediately upon any change in such matters as address, phone number, church membership or a serious change in family situations. Student Records The school maintains a complete record, including a cumulative academic record, for each student. All materials in these files are treated as strictly confidential and are available only according to the following policy: Students who have withdrawn from BLS will have their cumulative records sent directly to the new school upon the schools request, provided their BLS tuition is paid in full. Administrative permission will be needed for parents wishing to hand carry a stamped sealed copy of their childs cumulative record.

Withdrawal Procedures
Student withdrawals are to be initiated through the principals office and will be subject to the terms outlined in the Ben Lippen School Education Agreement.

Supplementary Education Program

Private supplementary services are available through Academic and Educational Services, Inc. AES utilizes a therapy approach developed by National Institute for Learning Disabilities (NILD). This program is not covered by BLS tuition.

Financial Policies and Procedures

Payment Plans Tuition payments are drafted through FACTS. The payer must set up a FACTS account and choose one of the following payment options: 1. Annual Plan full payment due July 1. This plan will include a tuition deposit for the following school year for all PreK-11th grade students. 2. Semester Plan 60% payment due July 1 and 40% payment due December 1. A tuition deposit for the following school year will be included in the December 1 payment. 3. Ten-Month Plan automatic drafts beginning in July and ending in May for tuition, with the month of February being reserved for the tuition deposit for the following year. For 12th

18

 grade students, tuition will be drafted each month from July through April. There is an additional payment plan fee to be on the 10-month plan. Delinquent Accounts Students with delinquent accounts will not be permitted to start classes. Families who fall into arrears and fail to clear the FACTS draft must make full payment plus any penalty fees assessed by the bank. Student records such as grade reports and official transcripts will not be released unless account is current. Students whose accounts are more than 60 days past due are subject to suspension from school sponsored activities, sports participation, and academic classes. Access to RenWeb will be denied should an account become past due. Students with an outstanding balance from previous years may not re-activate or re-enroll until the balance is paid in full. Financial Assistance Families desiring to apply for financial assistance may do so as part of the application or re-enrollment process. Applications are accepted online through FACTS. (An application fee is assessed and payable to FACTS.) A link to FACTS is available on the Ben Lippen website. Families are encouraged to apply by February 28 in order to have the greatest opportunity for assistance. Financial aid is offered on the basis of demonstrated financial need and is limited. The following are the conditions for financial aid: No family will be awarded financial assistance or need-based scholarships without applying through FACTS. Should a student withdraw, the unused pro-rated portion of the financial aid/scholarship will be returned to the school and may be awarded to another family. Families may not receive financial assistance over and above the amount for which they have qualified. Only the parent(s) or legal guardian may apply for aid. Late Fees A $25 late fee will be assessed on tuition payments received 15 days past the due date. Returned Checks (NSF) A $25 service charge will be assessed for all returned checks and returned FACTS withdrawals. After two NSF, only cash, cashiers check, or money orders will be accepted for all payments through the remainder of the school year.

Please complete the Handbook Commitment Form.

This form must be signed and returned each year to BLS before the start of classes. Please return the form to the school office.

19

Middle School Handbook Commitment Form

Parental Commitment Please initial next to each statement indicating agreement, and sign where indicated. As parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a Ben Lippen School student, I (we): Commit to participate in the Christian education of our son or daughter by regular attendance at a local church and exemplify Christian principles of life in our home. Commit to support the principles contained in the Statement of Faith and Mission Statement of BLS.

Commit to support Ben Lippen School and Ben Lippen policies as set forth in the Ben Lippen Student Life Handbook. Commit to communicate directly with BLS teachers and/or administrators in the event of conflict or disagreement before involving other parties. Approve the publication of pictures of our son/daughter taken during the year. Approve establishing a Ben Lippen technology account, including email, for my student(s).

Fathers or Guardians Signature

Fathers or Guardians Printed Name

Date

Mothers or Guardians Signature

Mothers or Guardians Printed Name

Date

Student Commitment Please initial next to each statement if you agree, and sign where indicated. As a student at Ben Lippen School, I: Commit to do my best in all my studies.

Commit to obey the biblical and community standards set forth in the Ben Lippen Student Life Handbook without complaint. Commit to maintain a high standard in accordance with the social life guidelines and entertainment standards outlined in the Ben Lippen Student Life Handbook. Commit to appropriate technology usage in line with Ben Lippens technology policies.

Students Signature Students Printed Name Date 20

www.BenLippen.com
Middle School | 7401 Monticello Road | Columbia, SC 29203 (803) 807-4200 (MS) | (803) 807-4000 Main Office | Fax (803) 744-1387