Click on any link in the following list to jump down to the topic
Welcome to Edgewood Academy, herein referred to as EA. We are anticipating a very exciting school year. This handbook is designed to help students and parents understand the policies and procedures of EA. This handbook was developed in consultation with a dedicated review committee, and adopted by the Administration and the Board of Trustees, herein referred to as the Board. The handbook is official Board policy, and as such, EA reserves the right to amend, alter, or delete portions of the handbook throughout the course of the school year as the Board and Administration deem necessary and proper without prior notice.
EA is governed by an elected Board of Trustees, whose major roles are developing policies and procedures, funding the total school program, and hiring the School’s chief administrator (Head of School). The administration of EA is delegated by the Board to the Head of School who supervises the overall operation of EA.
Students enrolled in EA are required to abide by these policies and procedures established by the Board and the School. This applies to all school sponsored activities including, but not limited to the following:
- Regular school activities.
- Transportation for school sponsored activities.
- Athletic functions.
- Club or organizational events.
- School sponsored social events.
- School groups representing the school.
- Vehicles driven and/or parked on school property.
EA students attending events at other private and public schools are expected to abide by EA policies and procedures.
The mission of Edgewood Academy is to provide students with a college preparatory education in a safe and supported environment.
We endeavor to prepare students for a future of lifelong learning and productive citizenship.
Edgewood Academy will be regarded as the best and most sought after private school in the tri-county area.
Each student at EA is a unique individual with different physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.
The main objective of EA is that students’ learning needs should be the prime concern in all decisions.
Teachers at EA should recognize the different learning styles of all students and adapt their teachings to meet these styles.
Administrators, teachers, parents, and students at EA share the responsibility of providing a safe and comfortable environment that promotes student learning.
Continuous improvements at EA are necessary in order to prepare students to become lifelong learners.
While EA is not affiliated with any particular denomination, it does affirm the values and beliefs of the Christian faith and allows for the public practice and display of all Christian denominations.
General Information
A. Nondiscriminatory Policy
EA admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to all students at EA. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national or ethnic origin in the administration of the educational policies, athletics, admission policies, or other school administered programs.
As an independent school, EA reserves the right to deny admission to any student. Also, EA reserves the right to ask any student to leave at any time for any reason when the Administration and Board believe it is in the best interest of EA. This also includes the right not to allow students to return for the next school year.
B. Admission Process
The admission process consists of the following:
1. Application for admission.
2. Administration interview
3. Entrance test (fee required)
4. Official transcript
5. Latest report card
6. Birth certificate and immunization form when necessary
7. Review of disciplinary file
8. Review by education committee
9. Admittance or rejection notification
10. Sign enrollment contract and payment of initial fees.
C. Fees and Registration Costs
A testing fee for admissions is required for each student. A non-refundable foundation fee plus a yearly registration fee per family must be paid before the applicant can be placed on the class rolls at EA. These and other fees are described in detail in the annual enrollment contract.
If a family chooses not to re-enroll for the following school year, the family will be treated as a new family if the family decides to re-enroll in any subsequent years.
D. Parents Enrollment Agreement (Contract)
EA relies on tuition and fee payments to operate. Therefore, it is imperative that all accounts remain current. Terms of the enrollment contract and payment options are available in the business office. In addition to the enrollment contract, parents are responsible for paying the cost of any damage or loss of school property by their child or children. Exceptions to the payment policy require Board of Trustee approval, and the Board has the authority to accept or reject any payment plan.
Regular school attendance is a requirement of the State of Alabama. The compulsory school attendance law of the State of Alabama, Title 16, Section 28-12, code of Alabama 1975 provides that “every child between the ages of seven and seventeen years shall be required to attend a public school, private school, church school or be instructed by a competent tutor for the entire length of the school year.” School Administrators are required under this law to enforce the compulsory school attendance laws. Violation of the compulsory school attendance law could result in the child being considered truant, parents fined, and driver’s license suspended. Students not in attendance for at least half the school day will be considered absent for the entire day.
Absences are either excused or unexcused. In accordance with state law, a parent/guardian must explain in writing the cause of every absence of students under his/her control. Every student upon returning to school after an absence must bring the written excuse signed by parent/guardian to the school office. The administration will determine if the absence should be excused. The written excuse should be provided on the day the student, returns to school. Failure to provide a written excuse within two days of the students return will be considered an unexcused absence.
Excused absences are as follows:
A. Personal illness
B. Serious illness or death in immediate family
C. Inclement weather or emergency condition which could be dangerous to the life and health of the students as determined by the administration
D. Legal Quarantine
E. Emergency conditions as determined by the administration
F. Prior permission of the administration
- 1. Late night school activities
- 2. Parent request days. The administration may approve absences for family reasons with prior written request.
- Twenty-four hour advance approval is required. No more than three parent request days are allow for the year. In the event of excessive absenses, parent request days nay be denied. Parent request days will not be allowed the last week of school.
- 3. Driver’s test. One time only. Student must provide documentation of test.
- 4. College campus visits. Seniors may take three visits and Juniors two visits. A written request and advance
- approval is required. Documentation of visit is required.
- 5. Court subpoena
Note: Students involved in school related activities approved by the administration are counted as attending. To participate in extra-curricular activities after school, students must have been in attendance at least four periods that day.
The School represents a physician's excuse for doctor and dental visits.
Absences for any reason other than those defined above are unexcused. Suspensions are unexcused absences.
Loss of Credit for Excessive Absences
K-6 When a student in grades K-6 has more than 20 absences over the course of the school year, the administration will evaluate the attendance records and may recommend retention.
7-12 Student absences in grades 7-12 are on a per class basis. When a student misses more than 10 days per semester, the teacher and administration will evaluate the attendance record and academic work and may recommend loss of credit for that semester in that particular subject.
Students absent for any excused reason shall be allowed to make up missed work at a time agreeable to the teacher. Obtaining make up work is the sole responsibility of the student in grades 7-12. In grades K-6 the parent or guardian is responsible for arranging necessary make up work. Students will be allowed the number of days absent for make up work. For example, if a student is out 3 days, he/she has 3 days to make up work. When a student is out one day, which may be a test day, the student will be required to take the test upon the day he/she returns to school. School activities sometime require students to leave school prior to normal dismissal times. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with teachers to make up any missed work. Students are expected to make up work missed within the time limits set by the teacher.
Students absent for unexcused reasons will not be allowed to make up work or tests missed. Teachers shall not assign automatic zeros for an unexcused absence. Zeros shall be assigned only when students missed graded activities taken by other students while the student was absent.
A school tardy is when a student arrives at school after the official time set for the beginning of the school day. Excessive tardiness will result in disciplinary action as defined under Code of Conduct. Excessive tardies are more than five each quarter.
The check – in procedure for school tardiness is as follows.
1. All non-driving students must be accompanied by parent/guardian to the main office to receive a pass to class.
2. Student drivers must come to the office to receive a pass to class.
Tardiness is either excused or unexcused as defined under excused/unexcused absences policy. A class tardy is when a student arrives to a class after the time set for the class to begin or after the tardy bell. Class tardiness will result in disciplinary action defined under code of conduct. Class excessive tardiness is more than five per quarter.
Students are encouraged to remain in school the entire school day. If a student needs to check out during the school day, the following procedure should be followed:
1. If a student knows they will be checking out during the day, the student must bring a note signed by parent / guardian
stating:
a. Student name
b. Time of check-out
c. A phone number for parents where they may be reached for verification.
d. The specific reason for checking out.
2. The student will be given a check-out note to provide to the teacher when it is time for the student to leave the class
room. The note should be signed by the first period teacher and by the teachers of the classes the student is going to
miss.
3. Check-out note should be returned to the office where non-driving students will wait until someone picks them up.
Driving students will be allowed to check themselves out.
4. If a student returns to school after checking-out, follow the check-in procedures.
5. When a student becomes ill during the school hours and needs to check-out, come to the office and follow steps 2 and 3
above.
6. Students checking out for doctor or dental appointments should bring a physicians statement upon returning to school.
Check-outs are either excused or unexcused as defined under excused/unexcused Absence Policy.
It is the belief of the Board and the school that proper dress and grooming are an indication of respect for ones self, as well as others. All students are expected to be neat, clean, and appropriately dressed at all times. Students dress will be in good taste and will not be extreme, indecent, dirty, or unsafe. Any dress or garment that tends to distract, disturb, is noticeably unusual, strange or interferes with the educational process is not allowed. Any student deemed by the Administration to be inappropriately dressed may be sent home. Any absence that results from correction of dress will be considered unexcused. Repeated violations could result in further action under the Code of Conduct.
Specific dress code requirements include, but are not limited to the following:
1. Shoes are to be worn at all times. No shoes with wheels.
2. House shoes or pajamas / sleepwear are not allowed.
3. Halter tops, tank tops, spaghetti straps, strapless tops, crop tops, racer back, shirts with inappropriate language or slogans, see through fabric, and camouflage military type clothing are not allowed.
4. Sleeveless shirts for girls should extend from base of neck to the top of the arms.
5. Sleeveless shirts for boys are not allowed.
6. Shorts, skirts, and dresses should extend mid thigh and below. Rule of thumb “If you put your hands by your side and touch skin, it’s too short”.
7. Midriffs and cleavage are not to show.
8. Braless attire for girls is not allowed.
9. Undergarments (except T-shirts) shall not be visible at any time.
10. All shorts, pants, slacks, etc. shall be worn at waist level. No Sagging.
11. Visible body piercing (except for girl’s earrings and no more than 2 piercing per ear), visible tattoos, body art, and unnatural hair color are not acceptable.
12. No article of clothing with holes allowed.
13. Hair shall be well groomed and neatly styled. Boy’s hair shall not extend below the top of the shirt collar or extend to the eyebrows in front.
14. Boys are expected to be clean shaven, having no beards or mustaches.
15.No alcoholic beverage, illegal drugs or tobacco advertisement; obscene, suggestive, or inappropriate language on clothing or accessories allowed.
16. No hats, caps, bandanas, sunglasses or headgear may be worn in the school building during the school day.
17. No clothing that has chains attached is allowed.
18. Clothing worn in P.E. may not be worn to other classes for grades 7-12 .
In order for EA to fulfill its commitment to provide the best possible educational opportunities and experiences, the Administration and faculty and staff have the responsibility and authority to correct student’s inappropriate behavior. EA’s Code of Conduct is designed to achieve appropriate behavior while teaching character and self-discipline.
EA must establish and maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to learning. This atmosphere is developed by each student’s willingness to assume responsibility for his or her own actions.
EA students are expected to exemplify good conduct at all times. This not only applies during the school day, but at any school- sponsored activity either at home or away.
Students are expected to be courteous and obedient, and to show proper respect to each member of faculty and staff at all times.
Students shall change classes in an orderly and quiet manner for safety and well being of all students. Students should walk on the right side of the hall.
Students must maintain an acceptable level of noise in the hallways, classrooms, and cafeteria.
Students shall not congregate in groups in the hallway.
School restrooms are maintained for the health and convenience of all students. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and help maintain clean restrooms.
It is the responsibility of students, faculty and staff to help keep the school buildings and campus clean.
The school telephone is for official business and emergency use only. Students will be allowed to use the phone in case of sickness.
All students are to conduct themselves in a proper manner at all assemblies, athletic contests, and other school events on and off campus.
Students and parents are reminded that inappropriate behavior, actions or language at any athletic event could result in EA being fined and placed on probation by the AISA. If the offense is severe enough, EA could be prohibited from participating in athletics.
No student activity will be conducted anywhere on school property at any time without supervision by a sponsor or approved adult personnel.
Knives, razor blades, dangerous weapons, fireworks, stink bombs, and pornography are not permitted on the school campus at any time. Violators are subject to suspension and/or expulsion.
Possession, use, distribution, or sale of alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription drugs, over the counter drugs and drug paraphernalia is not allowed. Violators will be suspended and/or expelled. Sale of controlled substances on school grounds will result in immediate expulsion. If prescription drugs are needed for an illness or injury they are to be kept in the school office with the doctors’ prescription and dosage attached. The prescription must be in the student’s name, not the parent’s name.
All medications (Prescription or over the counter) must be brought to the school by parent or guardian. The student medication information form must be filled out prior to dispensing medicine, and on file. School personnel will not administer the medication without proper signature. A doctor must also sign the form for all prescription medicines. The proper medication forms may be picked up at the school. If you have any questions, please contact the school.
Students in hallways during the school day while classes are in session must have a hall pass from their teacher.
Students should enter and leave buildings in an orderly manner.
Cell phones are allowed as long as they are not seen or heard during the school day. Cell phones should be turned off during all classes. Cell phones may be used during break and lunch. Cell phone misuse is a class II offense.
Students shall not damage or destroy school equipment and/or property. Parents will be held financially responsible for damage or destruction of school equipment and/or property.
Students are expected to be mannerly and respectful of others in the lunchroom by:
1. Remaining seated until dismissed.
2. Keeping voices at normal to low levels.
3. Not leaving the lunchroom with food or drink.
4. Putting trash in proper containers.
5. Not throwing objects or food.
6. Leaving the table and surrounding area clean and orderly.
Open containers are not allowed except at break and lunch. Food is not allowed in any classroom.
Elementary restrooms are off limits to grades 7-12 at all times.
Student harassment of any type will not be tolerated. This includes verbal, physical or sexual. This also includes harassment through electronic means such as text messaging, MySpace, and FaceBook. Violators are subject to suspension and/or expulsion.
No gum chewing allowed at any time.
Pets and other animals are not allowed at school functions, or athletic events on or off campus.
The library is a classroom where students are to abide by the librarian’s rules including conforming to the school computer use rules.
Field trips are part of the school day, and all school rules apply. Students not participating in field trips may be asked by teachers to do special assignments about the trip. Students not going on a field trip must take a parent request day.
Possession or use of tobacco at any time is prohibited.
Only students who are licensed to drive a motor vehicle are permitted to drive on campus. Vehicles must park in the designated areas. Students shall park vehicles as they arrive on campus and immediately leave the parking area. Vehicles are off limits during the school day. Students are not to ride in back of a truck on campus. All vehicles shall remain in the designated area until school is dismissed. All vehicles must be driven in a safe manner and at their lowest speed. Violators are subject to disciplinary measures including possible driving privileges revoked. Atheletes, whose sport is in season, may move their vehicles to the proper venue after 6th period. Vehicles are subject to searching at anytime.
Possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages is not allowed at the school or any school related events.
All students are to exhibit academic integrity by doing their own work. Cheating, plagiarism, and forgery of school documents will not be tolerated. Violations may result in suspension.
Cheating is the unauthorized giving or receiving of information as specified by the teacher. If a student is determined to be cheating the following consequences shall be enforced:
First Offense
1. Zero for that activity
2. Parents notified
3. Excemption privileges revoked in all classes.
4. Ineligible to join any Honor Societies for the current year.
Subsequent Offenses
1. Referred to Administration as specified under Code of Conduct
Any National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, or Beta Club student determined to be cheating will be immediately removed from the Society.
Each classroom teacher will deal with general classroom disruption by taking disciplinary action within the classroom, including making a call to the parent/guardian. Individual teachers are to have written classroom disciplinary policies including consequences. Only when action taken by the teacher is ineffective, or the disruption is severe should the student be referred to the Administration. A copy of teacher disciplinary policies should be given to each student. A copy must also be on file in the school office.
Violations of the code of conduct are grouped into three classes:
Class I – Minor
Class II – Intermediate
Class III – Major
Each classification, if followed by a disciplinary action, is to be administered by the Administration. Before determining the classification of a violation, the Administration will hear the student’s explanation and consult further with witnesses if necessary. The disciplinary action taken will be determined by whether the student is an elementary or secondary student, the number of times he/she has committed violations, and the severity of the violation.
Class I – Minor Offenses
1. Excessive distraction of other students.
2. Chewing gum.
3. Excessive tardiness.
4. Non-conformity to dress code.
5. Public display of affection.
6. Food or drink in unauthorized areas.
7. Open containers in unauthorized areas.
8. Unauthorized use of school or personal property.
9. Minor disruption at any school-sponsored event.
10. Failure to keep locker clean and free from food and trash.
11. Placing items on top of lockers.
12. Continued refusal to complete class assignments.
13. Failure to come to class prepared.
14. Failure to return any document that requires signature in the time specified.
15. Littering on school property.
16. Any other violation that the Administration may deem reasonable to fall within this category.
Class I Minor offenses will result in the following sanctions.
Elementary Students
1. First violation – Student conference and parental contact when warranted
2. Second violation – Parental contact and/or disciplinary action
3. Subsequent violation – Disciplinary action such as probation, detention, assignment relative to violation, loss of field trip privileges, loss of break privileges, work detail, corporal punishment, etc.
Secondary Students
1. First violation – Student conference and parent contact when warranted
2. Second and subsequent violation – Disciplinary action such as probation, detention, special assignment related to violation, work detail, loss of break privileges, corporal punishment
Class II Intermediate Offenses
1. Receipt of 3 minor offense referrals within a consecutive nine week period
2. Defianceof school employee’s authority
3. Possession and/or use of tobacco products
4. Vandalism
5. Stealing, larceny, petty theft of less than $100
6. Gambling activities involving money and valuables less than $100
7. Possession of or the selling of stolen property with the knowledge it is stolen
8. Forgery of any type to include parent signature
9. Disrespectful words, actions or attitude toward a school employee
10. Use of profane or obscene language or gestures
11. Possession of pornographic/suggestive material
12. Threats and/or extortion
13. Harassment of students and employees
14. Falsifying or changing any school document
15. Cheating
16. Plagiarism
17. Fighting
18. Inappropriate touching of another student
19. Violation of internet and computer rules
20. Activation of electronic devices, including cell phones during school hours (including detention)
21. Any other violation which the Administration may deem reasonable to fall within this category
Class II Intermediate offenses will result in the following sanctions
Elementary Students
First Violation – Parental contact and disciplinary action such as detention, loss of break privileges, Saturday school if implemented, and/or corporal punishment.
Subsequent Violation – Parental contact and suspension for one to five days
Secondary Students
First Violation – Parental contact and detention, work assignments, corporal punishment, Saturday school if implemented, suspension for one to five days
Subsequent Violation – Parental contact and suspension for three to five days. Special circumstances or repeat offences may warrant a suspension of up to ten days or a recommendation for expulsion.
Class III Major Offenses
1. Receipt of two intermediate offenses within any consecutive 18 week period after the first issuance.
2. Drugs – The unauthorized use, possession, sale, misuse/abuse or being under the influence of drugs, illegal – prescription – over the counter. The Code of Alabama 16-1-14.1 (a) (b) (c) (d) and Legislative Act 94-783 states “A person/student who unlawfully sells, furnishes, or gives a controlled substance to a minor may be liable for injury or damage or both”
3. Possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages
4. Battery upon any person including employees
5. Robbery – Taking of money or other personal property by force or threats.
6. Stealing – Larceny – Grand Theft – The intentional taking and/or carrying away of property valued more than $100
7. Gambling – Intentional, unlawful participation in gambling activities including more than $100
8. Burglary of school property
9. Possession of dangerous weapons or devices which include, but are not limited to firearms, knives, mace, chains, and/or artificial play weapons. Possession of a deadly weapon on school premises with intent to do bodily harm is a Class C felony.
10. Possession of and/or discharging firearms or fireworks.
11. False reporting of bomb threats or other catastrophe.
12. Any sexual acts or written and/or verbal proposition to engage in sexual acts.
13. Unjustified activation of fire alarm
14. Computer hacking or misuse of computers
15. Inciting or participation in disorderly activities that disrupt the educational process
16. Criminal mischief – Willful and malicious injury or damages in excess of $200 to property of school or another person
17. Any other violation when the administration may deem reasonable to fall within this category
Class III – Major offenses will result in the following sanctions:
First Offense – Parental contact and ten days out of school suspension, Law Enforcement personnel will be contacted when warranted and charges filed. Possible expulsion. Sale of controlled substances on school grounds will result in immediate expulsion.
Second and Subsequent Offenses - Expulsion from EA and contact of Law Enforcement personnel when warranted and charges filed.
Any violations of drug and alcohol policies will result in loss of privileges to participate in extracurricular activities for one year or until graduation, whichever occurs first.
Detention – May occur before or after school. Before school detention will begin at 7:00 a.m. on designated days. After school detention will begin at 3:00 p.m. on designated days. Student will report to the designated faculty / staff member. This may include work detail.
Saturday School – Saturday school will be from 8:00am to 11:30 a.m. on designated Saturdays. Students assigned Saturday school will be assessed a $10.00 fee to pay the detention monitor. This may include work detail.
Conduct Probation – This is a period of time specified by the Administration during which a student must correct his/her behavior while abiding by all rules and regulations.
Out of School Suspension – Temporary removal of a student from school for a specified period of time. Suspensions are unexcused absences.
Corporal Punishment -- Administered as a last resort by only the Head of School with parental approval.
Expulsion -- Permanent removal of a student from EA by the Board, at the recommendation of the Administration.
Physical Restraint – School personnel have the authority to use reasonable physical force to restrain a student from abusing or attempting to abuse him or herself, other students, faculty, staff, parents, etc.
Note: Suspended students may not participate or attend any school functions while on suspension. Expelled students may not attend any school functions.
Marriage / Pregnancy
EA does not allow the enrollment of married students. Students that become pregnant or cause impregnation will be required to withdraw from school as soon as the condition is known.
Sexual harassment perpetrated against students or by students is prohibited. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student to be subjected to harassment or to subject another person to harassment through conduct or communication of a sexual nature.Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature against a student or by students.
Students attending EA will be required to submit to random testing for alcohol and drugs. The school has the right to require testing of specific individuals when probable cause exists. Testing will be done by using the hair follicle test for drugs. Alcohol testing will be done with an alcohol breath test. Failure of a student to submit to testing will result in an automatic suspension and the assumption of a positive test result.
All students are subject to search while on campus or at school sponsored events, including the search of vehicles and lockers. Canine searches by Law Enforcement personnel may be conducted when deemed appropriate by the Administration.
The use of the internet by students shall be for educational purposes only as approved by the school. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. Access to network services i.e. internet, will be provided only to those students who agree in writing to act in an appropriate manner. Precautions are taken by the school using filtering and interface systems to limit the access of objectionable information in public domains.
Students are not allowed in the computer lab without faculty supervision. Personal computer use i.e. laptop must be approved by the Administration. School rules apply to the use of personal computers at school.
General Computer use rules are as follows:
1. Shall not be used for political or commercial purposes.
2. Electronic mail should reflect acceptable standards at all times.
3. No reproduction of copyrighted material allowed without permission.
4. No access to inappropriate material.
5. Students may use only accounts, files, software, etc that have been assigned to them.
6. Students are not allowed to use another student’s account to log-on or allow another student to use his/her password to log-on.
7. Students must not attempt to disrupt any computer services or data by spreading viruses or spamming. No hacking.
8. Students are not allowed to use computers for purchasing.
9. Students are not allowed to use computers for derogatory comments or images of school personnel within EA or outside EA.
10. Students are not allowed to visit chat rooms, MySpace, Facebook, etc using school computers. Edgewood Academy should be reflected in a positive manner.
11. For safety reasons, students should not use references to EA on MySpace or Facebook accounts i.e. shirts, hats, etc.
12. Students shall not damage computers or network in any way.
13. Students shall not use computers for harassment of others.
Privacy – Computers and network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. EA reserves the right to maintain integrity by reviewing files and communications at any time. EA cannot guarantee the privacy of any information sent or received over the internet.
Violations of computer use rules may result in loss of access to computers as well as other actions applied under the Code of Conduct
Classes will not be interrupted to deliver student messages unless it is an emergency. If flowers or gifts are brought to school for students, they must be left in the school office until the end of the day.
The school office will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. daily during the days school is in session.
The school phone number is 334-567-5102.
Classes begin each day at 8:00 a.m. Kindergarten dismisses at 2:30 p.m. Grades 1-4 dismiss at 2:40 p.m. Grades 5-6 dismiss at 2:50 p.m. Grades 7-12 will dimiss at 3:05 p.m. The elementary building opens at 7:30 a.m. and the High School building doors open at 7:00 a.m. Before school care is avaliable at 7:00 each day in the cafeteria.
K-4 students arriving before 7:30 a.m. should be dropped off at the back of the high school building where they will be
supervised until the elementary building opens at 7:30 a.m. K-3 students arriving after 7:30 a.m. may be dropped off at either
the front or back of the elementary building. Due to limited parking it is requested that students be dropped off instead of
walked in by parents. All K-6 students remaining after 3:00 p.m. will be sent to after school care at the drop-in rate.
Students in grades 5-12 will be dropped off at the main building.
High School students, who pick up K-6 students in the afternoon, shall walk or drive to the elementary building to pick up
students. As a reminder to High School students who drive, you are to immediately leave the parking area after parking
your vehicle and enter the building. No loitering in the parking area.
After school care will be provided for Edgewood students only who cannot be picked up by 3:00 p.m. to ensure student
safety and supervision. There is no charge for faculty and staff whose children attend Edgewood.
All students will report to the cafeteria. After 3:05 p.m., parents must come to the cafeteria and sign-out the student. At that
time the drop-in fee of $9.00 will be assessed for all non-regular participants.
ASC students can be released from ASC to attend on-site EA events five (5) minutes prior to the start of the event. In order
to attend, students must present a signed note from their parent authorizing release to the ASC director. Students that are
released to an event will remain at the event and will not be authorized on the grounds (except at event) or in the school
hallways. Parents are completely responsible for students once they are released from ASC for a school event.
Registration Fee -- $10.00 per family
Please complete the registration form and indicate the service desired. Return the form to your child’s teacher or office. All
checks should be made out to Edgewood Academy.
Full Time 3:00-5:45 $110.00 /month
$55.00 /month for August, December, and May
Part Time 3:00-4:30 $55.00/month
$27.50 /month for August, December, and May
Drop In 3:00- 6:00 $9.00 /Day
To be paid at Pick-Up
Drop-in spaces are limited and are available for students pre-registered. When possible contact Mrs. Angus two days
prior to attending to check on availability status. Contact the office by 2:30 p.m. in an emergency situation of your child needs
to attend that day. Missed days will not be deducted from monthly fee.
Late Fees:
· A late fee of $3.00 per minute per child for every minute the student is in ASC past 5:45 p.m. after three occurrences of
late pick-up, the late fee increases to $5.00 per minute.
Cancellations:
· Cancellations must be submitted in writing to the office at least one week in advance. If notice is not given, you will be
charged the regular monthly fee.
Parents/Guardians are welcome to visit the school at any time. When visiting the school, you are asked to check in through the
main office to receive a visitor’s pass. Unauthorized visitors are not allowed.
Necessary changes in a students’ schedule must be approved by parents, Administration, teachers, and counselor. Students
may request a schedule change only during the first week of each semester. All changes must ensure that students studies
remain on track to make sure graduation requirements are met. The Director of Secondary Education will handle all schedule
changes.
Edgewood offers two types of diploma. They are as follows:
1. Standard diploma - 24 credit hours are required. This includes:
§ 4 units of English
§ 4 units of social studies
§ 4 units of science – must include a physical science and biology
§ 4 units of math – must include Algebra II and geometry
§ 1 unit of physical education
§ ½ unit of health
§ ½ unit of fine arts
1 unit of foriegn language
§ 4 ½ units of electives
§ Volunteer Service 50 hours (20 hours must be served on school grounds)
2. Advanced diploma – 25 credit hours required. This includes:
All Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered at Edgewood Academy.
§ 4 units of English
§ 4 units of social studies
§ 4 units of science – must include a physical science, biology, Physics, and one additional life or physical science unit
§ 4 units of math – must include all advanced math offered
§ 1 unit of physical education
§ ½ unit of health
§ ½ unit of computer applications
§ 2 units of the same foreign language
§ ½ unit of fine arts
§ 4 ½ units of elective courses
§ Volunteer Service of 100 hours (40 hours must be served on school grounds)
Advanced placement (AP) courses are offered at EA. All students taking AP courses must take the AP exam. Parents are resonsible for paying the cost of the AP exam.
A. 90-100
B. 80-89
C. 70-79
D. 60-69
F. Below 60
Quarter Grades:
40% - Quizzes/Tests
40% - Homework/Classwork
20% - Quarter Exam (comprehensive)
Term Grades:
40% - 1 st. quarter
40% - 2nd quarter
20% - Term Exam (comprehensive)
Grades 1-12 are available at any time on EdLine. A hard copy progress report is available at parent request. Grades 1 - 6
Progress Report will be sent home at mid quarter.
Report cards are passed out after each nine weeks. Report cards are required to be signed by parents and returned to the
school within 5 days. Failure to return signed report cards will result in a violation of the Code of Conduct.
Students in grades 7-12 may be exempted from term exams on a class by class basis. Exemptions are earned by:
1. Academic Exemption
a. Must have at least a 90 average in the course.
b. No more than 1 disciplinary referral during that semester.
2. Attendance Exception
a. Must have an 80 average or higher in the course.
b. Must not have more than 5 combined of the following: Tardies, absences, check-ins, check-outs, in that course.
c. No more than 1 disciplinary referral during that semester.
Students that are exempt have the option to take term exams. If students opt to take the exams, the exam will be counted
only if the exam improves the student’s term average. Absences due to school related functions approved by the
administration do not count against exemptions.
Grades K-8
A student must pass all subjects to be promoted to the next grade. A student who fails two subjects for the year will be retained. A student who fails one subject may be promoted if:
1. They attend and pass a certified summer school approved by the Administration.
2. Take and pass a distance learning class approved by the Administration.
Grades 9-12
Credits for graduation are earned in grades 9-12. Required credits for promotion are
From 9th to 10th 6 credits
From 10th to 11th 12 credits
From 11th to 12th 18 credits
Any student, who makes a failing grade for a semester may be required to make up the credit. This must be approved by the administration. Students failing a subject for the semester will be placed on academic probation. If a student fails both sememsters, he/she may be dismissed from EA, required to repeat that subject, or attend summer school.
Students, who desire to take courses not offered at EA, must get approval of Administration and Director of Secondary Education. If approval is not given, these courses will not count toward graduation requirements. Parents are responsible for all costs associated with the courses.
Academic Warning status occurs when a student's GPA and grades indicate that a student is headed toward Academic Probation. Academic Warning status is issued at the end of each reporting period for which the student's cumulative GPA is below 2.0 and/or the student fails any course.
Academic Probation is a severe warning that occurs when a student's GPA and grades are dangerously low, and immediate action is required for a student to earn his/her way back to "good standing". Academic Probation is issued at the end of each semester for which a student's cumulative GPA is below 2.0 and/or the student fails any course.
Actions:
* Any new student admitted to EA with GPA of 2.4 or lower will be placed on Admission Probation. The student will have one semester to maintain his GPA of 2.0 or higher, and pass all courses. Failure to do so, could lead to dismissal. New students are allowed to participate in extracurricular activities while on Admission Probation.
* Academic Warning period last until requirements are met, or the student is placed on Academic Probation.
* Academic Probation occurs in the following grade reporting period i.e. 3rd quarter.
* Students on Academic Probation will not be allowed to participated in extra curricular activities including athletics.
* If a student on Academic Probation fails to meet requirements the following reporting period, they are subject to dismissal.
Administrative Procedures:
* Students/Parents will be notified in writing by the Head of School when a student is placed on Academic Warning or Academic Probation.
* Edline progress reports will be sent home to be signed by parents and returned to school.
* Coaches/sponsors will be notified when a student in placed on Academic Warning and Academic Probation.
* Electives are considered when computing th GPA.
* Final decisions concerning Academic Warning and Academic Probation will be made by the Head of School.
The following eligibility requirements must be met to be considered for Valedictorian and Salutatorian:
1. Only students pursuing the advanced (or honors for 2008-09 classes) will be eligible.
2. Student must have been enrolled at EA in grades 9-12.
3. All transcript grades for a transfer student must be from a SACS accredited school.
4. The student with the highest GPA seeking the advanced diploma will be the Valedictorian. The student with the second highest GPA will be the Salutatorian. *GPA is based on transcript letter grade point value, not numerical averages.
5. If a tie occurs, the student with the highest ACT score will be the Valedictorian.
Note: Effective with the graduating class of 2012, numerical averages will be used to determine Valedictorian and Salutatorian.
Membership
EA maintains membership in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA), and functions under the guidelines established by the AISA.
Eligibility
To participate in athletics (cheerleading), all students must meet the eligibility requirements established by the AISA. These requirements are found on the AISA website and in the AISA athletic handbook at www.aisaonline.org. The athletic department and the administration at EA will determine all eligibility. No student may participate in any game until his/her eligibility has been established.
In addition to meeting AISA requirments, all students must meet the following EA requirements for participation :
1. Maintain an overall 70 average in all classes.
2. Students may make up classes during the summer to maintain eligibility.
These courses must be approved by the administration.
3. Unless excused by the administration, students must attend 4 classes in order to participate that day.
4. All athletes must follow school rules relative to tardiness and absences.
5. If an athlete quits a sport during the season, he/she will not be allowed to participate in another sport until the sport he/she quit is finished.
6. Any athlete on conduct suspension is not allowed to participate.
Mandatory Study Hall
Any athlete whose grade falls below 70 at mid term, quarter, or semester during the school year will be required to attend mandatory study hall, 7:00 am to 7:50 am, Monday through Friday. Athletes will remain in study hall until grades are above 70 in all subjects.
Early Dismissal
Because of scheduling and travel time, it is sometimes necessary for teams to leave school early. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with teachers to make up any missed work. Students are expected to make up work within the time limits set by the teacher.
Travel Attire
Athletes represent EA when participating in athletic events. They are expected to dress appropriately traveling to and from athletic events. Each coach will determine appropriate dress for the team.
Transportation
All athletes must travel on EA transportation when it is provided. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the coach. Athletes wishing to ride home woth parents after away events must provide written request prior to the event. It is at the discretion of the coach whether or not to allow the athlete to ride home with the parents.
Uniforms
Athletes are responsible to take proper care of uniforms and return them in good condition at the time specified by the coach. Lost or damaged uniforms must be replaced by the athlete.
Athletic Funding
Funds for the operation of the athletic program are generated by the school and booster club. These funds are generated through sources such as participation fees, advertising, admission, concessions, merchandise sales, and fund raisers. The athletic director (in consultation with individual coaches) and the Head of School develop the yearly athletic budget. The budget is monitored monthly.
Participation fees are as follows:
Grades 2-6 $100
Grades 7-12 $200
These fees are due and payable before the athlete participates in the sport. Participation will not be allowed until fees are paid.
Booster Club
The athletic director and the coaches will work with parents to organize and maintain the EA Booster Club. The Club is made up of volunteers whose primary focas is to support and encourage the athletes and coaches at EA. Membership is open to anyone assoiciated with EA who is commited to making EA athletics the best. All Booster Club activities must be approved by the administration.
Required Forms
The following required forms must be on file before a student us allowed to participate in athletics:
1. AISA participation permit
2. Medical release form
3. Medical history form
4. Physical examination form
5. Consent to treat form
These forms are available in the Athletic Directors office.
Sportmanship
Good sportmanship is a top priority. All athletes will respect parents, coaches, teahers, officials and opponents, and represent Ea with honor, respect and a postive attitude. All parents will support the team and coaches in pubic and address concerns in private. All parents will respect officials and opponents. Parents will assist coaches by staying off practice and playing fields/courts at all times. Coaches will respect officials and opponets, and treat all people with dignity and respect. Coaches should lead by example on and off the field or court, and teach athletes to play hard, but to win or lose in equal grace.
Unsportsmanlike conduct
Any coach or player that is ejected from a contest that results in the school being fined is responsible for paying the fine. Any player ejected from the contest will be reprimanded. A player ejected a second time will be suspended for the next game. A player ejected a thrid time will be suspended for the remainder of the season. If the ejection is the last game of the season, the punishment will be administered during his/her next sport season.
Alabama Sports Official Bill
Alabama has severe punishment for angry sports fans that attack game officials, coaches, and administators. The crimes of harassing, menacing, and assaulting sports officials, coaches, and administrators are harsher than normal convictions for harassment, menacing, and assault. This law applies to all levels of athletics.
The following extracurricular activities are available at EA for grades 7-12.
Drama Club – This club teaches acting skills needed in presenting dramas, comedies, and musicals.
First Priority – This club organizes activities for the school and community that reflect a strong Christian influence.
Student Government Association (SGA) / Youth in Government – This organization prepares students for leadership roles. It also prepares students for Youth Legislation Activities Associated with State Government.
Athletics – Sport activities such as baseball, basketball, cheerleading, dance, football, softball, track, and volleyball are provided to teach students teamwork and sportsmanship while promoting discipline.
In addition to the above activities, grades 9-12 also have the following:
Beta Club - Students are recognized and inducted into the Beta Club for their high academic achievement and leadership. A GPA of 3.0, with two consecutive semester averages with grades not lower than B’s is required.
Spanish Honor Society – For students taking Spanish, and maintaining two consecutive semesters of an “A” average.
National Honor Society -- For Juniors and Seniors maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher and an evaluation by teacher’s leadership skills, character, and service. All students inducted must have two consecutive semesters with no grade lower than B. A member of the National Honor Society found guilty of cheating will be removed from the organization.
Boys and Girls State – Available for Juniors with an opportunity to participate in State Government Activities.
Yearbook – Those students prepare the school annual called the Lynx.
Mr. and Miss Edgewood Guidelines
Canidates for Mr. and Miss Edgewood should meet the following recommendation: Enrolled at Edgewood since ninth grade
in a consecutive, non repeating years since tenth grade. Be in good standing with the student code of conduct. Must be a senior
and female.
Homecoming Queen and Homecoming Court Guidelines
Canidates for Homecoming Queen should meet all the following recommendations: Can not be Miss Edgewood. Enrolled at
Edgewood in consecutivem non repeating years since the tenth grade. Be in good standing with the student code of conduct.
Must be a senior and a female. Canidates for Homecoming Court: Must have attended Edgewood the entire preceding academic
year. Be a female in good standing with the student code of conduct.
Prom Queen/King Guidelines
Canidates for Prom Queen/King: Cannot be Mr. or Miss Edgewood or Homecoming Queen. Enrolled at Edgewood in
consecutive non repeating years since the tenth grade. Must be a senior. Be in good standing with the student code of
conduct.
EA participates in the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA). EA relies on the PTA to assist in raising funds to enhance the education environment. EA encourages all parents/guardians to become members of the PTA.
The primary purpose of this procedure is to provide prompt resolution to a perceived or real wrong, which is the cause for complaint. A student, parent/guardian, or employee who has a grievance and wishes to be heard shall follow the following established procedure:
Step I – If a complaint includes a teacher, coach or other staff member, the complaint shall be taken to the person it involves first for possible resolution. A conference may be needed after school hours. The complaint/grievance must be filed within five days of occurrence.
Step II – If there is not a resolution in Step I, and both parties have been informed of further resolution steps, the aggrieved person may consult with the School Administration within two days of occurrences for resolution.
Step III – If the aggrieved party is still not satisfied with the deposition of the grievance in Step II, the aggrieved may make a request in writing to appeal the resolution to the Board Chairman within fifteen days of the occurrence. The Board Chairman shall schedule a conference with the aggrieved within seven days, or render a written decision.
Step IV – In the event the aggrieved remains unsatisfied after Step III, the aggrieved may request in writing the matter be brought before the full Board of Trustees. The full Board shall meet within two days after receiving the written request. The full Board decision shall be in writing to the aggrieved, and the decision of the full Board is final.
If the complaint is by a school employee against the Administration, follow Steps I, III, and IV.
In the event of school closing for any reason, EA will notify media and parents. Updates may also be listed on EA website and through the SchoolCast. It is imperative that during times of emergency (inclement weather) the school phone lines remain open to communicate with the local EMA officials. Please Note: No one will be allowed to leave school is the school is under a Tornado Warning. Students are safer at school than on the highway.
Asbestos Notice
EA has been inspected by an EPA-approved asbestos inspector and maintains a management plan file in the school office as required under ADHERA regulations. The majority of our asbestos materials is non-friable and is in the form of floor tiles. Although EA has some friable suspect asbestos in our facilities, these materials are well maintained and are not accessible to the students.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This page requires a Parent/Guardian’s Signature, and MUST be returned to the main office during the first week of school. It will be maintained on file for future reference if needed.
Handbook Policy
I have read and understand this handbook which outlines the expected behavior and the consequences that my child can expect if he/she does not meet those expectations. I understand and agree that this handbook is not a contract with EA, and that EA reserves the right to amend any provision herein with or without advance notice to me and with or without my consent.
Drug Testing Policy
I have read and understand that EA utilizes searches conducted by the Head of School, the Counselor, those persons specifically designated by the Head of School, the local police force, and/or the police dog unit in conducting random searches of students and their possessions, including but not limited to: automobiles, lockers, purses, gym bags, backpacks, and other similar items at school. The possessions may be searched without the presence of the student or parent/guardian. Students who do not submit to an ordered search are subject to dismissal from EA.
The Use of Computers
The Internet and Electronic Mail
As a parent of guardian of a student at School, I have read the information about the appropriate use of computers at the school and I understand this agreement will be kept on file at the school. (Questions should be directed to the Head of School for clarification.)
Media Policy
I understand that EA maintains a school website describing daily activities, sports, and other school functions. I understand that from time-to-time the school will publish examples of student projects, photographs of students, other work on the website, and in the local media.
______________________________________________________Date_______________________
Parent /Guardian signature
My signature above indicates I understand and accept this handbook and will assist in making sure my (child/children) abide by the items in this handbook.
Student section: As a student at Edgewood Academy, I agree to comply with the above stated rules which include use of the internet in a constructive and educational manner.
Student Name (Print)_______________________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature______________________________________________________________________Date_____________________