Parent/Student Handbook 2023-24

Parent/Student Handbook

2023-24

prestonwoodchristian.org

Prestonwood Christian Academy Plano

6801 W. Park Blvd.

Plano, TX 75093

972-930-4107

prestonwoodchristian.org

Prestonwood Christian Academy North

1001 W. Prosper Trail

Prosper, TX 75078

972-798-6780

prestonwoodchristian.org/north

Prestonwood Christian Academy Online

6801 W. Park Blvd.

Plano, TX 75093

972-930-4437

[email protected]

Prestonwood Christian Academy School System

A Ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church

ACSI Exemplary Accredited ~ Accredited by Cognia

The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA)

ii | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

Parent/Student Handbook

2023-24

General Information

. . . . . . . 11-36

Operating Constitution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Vision Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Core Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Personal Christ-likeness Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Statement of Doctrinal Beliefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Purpose and Philosophy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

PCA Crest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Portrait of a PCA Graduate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

The PCA Code of Honor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

The Five Tenets of the PCA Code of Honor Perspective . . . . . 17

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Joshua Plaza and the Divine Servant Statue . . . . . . . . . 18

Administrative Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Executive Team

PCA North Campus

Lower School

Middle School

Upper School

PCA Plano Campus

Lower School

Middle School

Upper School

PCA Online Campus

Admissions

Athletics - Plano Campus

Athletics - North Campus

Business Ofce

Curriculum & Instruction

Facilities Services & Operations

Fine Arts

Human Resources

Marketing and Communications

Ofce of Development

Program Support

Special Programs

Spiritual Development

Technology Services

Admissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Anti-Harassment Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Bullying Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Immature Behavior

Unkind Behavior

Bullying Behavior

Student Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-25

General Guidelines

Student Code of Conduct

Revisions

‘Parents’ Dened

Corporal Punishment

Physical Restraint

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365

Video/Audio Monitoring

Use of Recordings

Access to Recordings

Personal Electronic Devices

Parent/Staff Communication Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . 23

PCA Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-25

General Lower School Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

General Middle School Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

General Upper School Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Denition of Campus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Disaster Drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

iii | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Information (continued...)

Extended Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Facilities Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Financial Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Key Contacts

Student Billing

Tuition and Fees

Withdrawl of a Student & Termination of Contractual Agreement

Medical Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-28

First Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Medication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Non-prescription PCA approved stock meds. . . . . . . . . . 26

Illness Exclusion from School for Health Reasons . . . . . . . 26

Returning to School After Hospitalization . . . . . . . . . . 27

Other Infections Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Routine Medication Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Immunizations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-28

Exemption for Reasons of Conscience . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Medication Consent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

End of Year Medication Pick Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Student Emergency Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Fund Raising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Inclement Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Library Resource Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

SAGE Dining

Non-Discrimination Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Ofce Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Lost and Found . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Parental Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Drugs/Substance Abuse/Alcohol/Tobacco . . . . . . . . . . 30

Search of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . 31

Vehicle Use on Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Visitor Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Weapons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Sexual Harassment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

PCA School-Wide Technology Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) . . 31-34

School-Owned Individual Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Device Cases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Personally-Owned Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Protocol for Damaged or Missing Devices . . . . . . . . . . 32

School-Owned Shared Devices, Network and Printers . . . . . 32

Internet Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Device Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Software, Communications and Multimedia . . . . . . . . . 33

Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Video Conferencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

File Sharing Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Special Note: Cyberbullying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Consequences for Violation of the Acceptable Use Policy . . . . 34

Student Withdrawals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

EPA Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Mediation and Arbitration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Parents/Guardians Statement of Support . . . . . . . . . . 35

PCA Statement of Support for Biblical Morality . . . . . . . . 36

iv | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA North - Lower School

Pre-K—Grade 4

. . . . . . . . . .37-44

Lower School Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Class Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Grading Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Missed/Late Work Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Physical Education Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Elementary Sports Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Promotion to Next Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Double Promotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Report Cards and myPCA (Grades 1-4) . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Student Assignment Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Testing of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39-41

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

In-School Suspension

Out-Of-School Suspension

Restoration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-42

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Excused and Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Tardies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Birthdays and Special Occasions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Classroom Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-44

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Chapel Dress Code for All Students . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Extended Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Searches of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

v | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA North - Middle School

Grade 5—Grade 8

. . . . . . . . .45-55

Middle School Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Ability Skills Grouping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Class Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Dropping Elective Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Upper School Courses in Seventh or Eighth Grade . . . . . . 46

Students with Learning Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Grading Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Minimester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Missed/Late Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Tests and Quizzes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Promotion to the Next Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Double Promotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Report Cards and myPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Testing of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Detention and Saturday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Out-of-School Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Restoration Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Loss of Privilege . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-52

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Excused and Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Excused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Pre-Approved Absenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Make-up Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Doctor Appointment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Unexcused Absenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Tardies to School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Tardies to Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Co-curricular Programs (athletics, ne arts, academics) . . . . . 54

Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Birthdays and Special Occasions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Classroom Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-54

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-54

Dress Code Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Extended Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Guidelines for Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Music and Dancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Searches of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . 55

Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

vi | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA North - Upper School

Grade 9-12

. . . . . . . . . . . . 56-69

Upper School Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Report Cards and myPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Grade/GPA Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

GPA Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Semester Exam Exemptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Credit Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-58

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Honor Roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Upper School Incentive Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Ranking Top Ten Percent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

National Honor Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Class Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Justiable Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Dropping Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Upper School Courses in Seventh or Eighth Grade . . . . . . 59

Non-PCA Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

PCA Online Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Credit Transfer Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Summer School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Minimester/Mission Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Students with Learning Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Advanced Placement Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Distinguished AP Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Standardized Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Graduation Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Math Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Valedictorian/Salutatorian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Honor Graduates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Homework Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Textbook Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-64

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62-63

Tardies (per class) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Detention and Saturday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Public Display of Romantic Affection . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Missed Detention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

In-School Suspension

Out-of-School Suspension

Restoration Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Loss of Privilege . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65-66

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Academically Excused, Exempt and Unexcused Absences . . . 65

Excused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Exempt Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Pre-Approved Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Co-curricular Programs (athletics, ne arts, academics) . . . . . 66

Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Upper School Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Campus Visitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Dress Code Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Guidelines for Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Music and Dancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Search of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . 68

Student ID Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-69

Vehicle Use on Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Non-PCA Guest Policy for School-Sponsored Events . . . . . . 69

vii | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA Plano - Lower School

Pre-K—Grade 4

. . . . . . . . . .70-79

Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Class Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Grading Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Missed/Late Work Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Physical Education Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Elementary Sports Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Promotion to Next Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Double Promotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Report Cards and myPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Student Assignment Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Testing of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73-75

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73-74

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

In-School Suspension

Out-of-School Suspension

Restoration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74-75

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75-76

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75-76

Excused and Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . 75-76

Tardies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Birthdays and Special Occasions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Classroom Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

General Dress Code Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Dress/Chapel Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Extended Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Searches of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

viii | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA Plano - Middle School

Grade 5—Grade 8

. . . . . . . . .79-90

Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Ability Skills Grouping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Class Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Dropping Elective Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Upper School Courses in Seventh or Eighth Grade . . . . . . 80

Students with Learning Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Grading Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Minimester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Homework. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Missed/Late Work Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Tests and Quizzes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Promotion to the Next Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Double Promotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Report Cards and myPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Testing of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82-85

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83-84

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Detention and Saturday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

In-School Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Out-of-School Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Restoration Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84-85

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Loss of Privilege . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85-87

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Carpool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85-87

Excused and Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Pre-Approved Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Tardies to School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Tardies to Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Co-Curricular Programs (athletics, ne arts, academics) . . . . . 87

Sportsmanship Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Birthdays and Special Occasions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Classroom Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88-89

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88-89

Field Trip Attire

Spirit Day Attire

Extended Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Guidelines for Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Music and Dancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Searches of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . 90

Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

ix | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Plano Campus - Upper School

Grade 9—Grade 12

. . . . . . .91-103

Plano Campus Upper School Administration . . . . . . . . . 92

Report Cards and myPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Grade/GPA Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

GPA Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Semester Exam Exemptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Credit Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92-93

Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Honor Roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Ranking Top Ten Percent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

National Honor Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Class Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93-94

Justiable Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Dropping Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Upper School Courses in Seventh or Eighth Grade . . . . . . 94

Non-PCA Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

PCA Online Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Credit Transfer Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Summer School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Minimester/Mission Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 94-95

Students with Learning Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Advanced Placement Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Distinguished AP Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Standardized Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Graduation Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Math Requirements

Valedictorian/Salutatorian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Honor Graduates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Homework Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Textbook Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96-99

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Minor Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Major Infractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96-98

Discipline Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Detention and Saturday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Public Display of Romantic Affection . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Missed Detention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Restoration Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98-99

Disciplinary Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Expulsion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Loss of Privilege . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Arrival and Dismissal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99-100

Academically Excused, Exempt and Unexcused Absences . . . 100

Excused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Exempt Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Pre-Approved Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Unexcused Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Tardies (per class) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Co-curricular Programs (athletics, ne arts, academics) . . . 100-101

Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Sportsmanship Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Upper School Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Campus Visitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Closed Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101-101

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys . . . . . . . . . . . . 101-102

Dress Code Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Guidelines for Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Music and Dancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Search of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . 103

Student ID Policy Vehicle Use on Campus . . . . . . . . . . 103

Non-PCA Guest Policy for School-Sponsored Events . . . . . . 104

x | TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PCA Online Campus

Parent/Student Handbook

GENERAL INFORMATION

11 | GENERAL INFORMATION

General Information

2023-24

GENERAL INFORMATION

12 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Prestonwood Christian Academy Operating Constitution

God has established Prestonwood Christian Academy for the purpose of impacting lives for eternity through biblically-

based and Christ-centered education. This vision and mission statement articulates the purpose behind the school’s

existence. When coupled with seven core values and a series of operating principles, this mission statement provides

Prestonwood Christian Academy with an operating constitution that will guide all of its policies, procedures, and

practices. In addition, a complete explanation of what a Kingdom educator is (supported by seven core values and

operating principles) and the biblical principles for achieving Kingdom education (supported by Scripture and application

points) completes Prestonwood Christian Academy’s Constitution.

Prestonwood Christian Academy

Vision Statement

To advance a Christian school of excellence through Kingdom education so that the generations to

come will know the truth of God’s Word and not forget His works, nor be taken captive by the vain

philosophies of their day.

Mission Statement

In pursuit of excellence in education, the mission of Prestonwood Christian Academy is:

To assist Christian parents by helping equip students to embrace biblical truth, strive for academic

excellence and model Christ-like leadership to inuence their homes, churches and communities for

Christ.

Core Values

In order to successfully fulll this mission, Prestonwood Christian Academy will give priority to seven

core values. Each core value must have operating principles that will allow PCA to put these core

values into everyday practice in every aspect of its educational program.

Bible, Christ-likeness, Christian Family, Church, Excellence in Education, Service, Stewardship

GENERAL INFORMATION

13 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Personal Christ-likeness Assessment

Pursue Excellence

Throughout the Bible, God has encouraged us as believers to always do our best (Colossians 3:23, Philippians 4:8, 1 Peter 2:12,

1 Peter 2:15, Hebrews 12:1-2, Ephesians 4:29).

Christ First in All Things

If we would apply the adage “JOY: Jesus, Others, then Yourself”, then Christ would always be the rst thought of every moment.

If we as PCA stakeholders put Jesus rst in every decision we make, then every aspect of PCA are vertically aligned in a

God-honoring way (Colossians 3:1, 15-17).

Always Show Love

If our decisions, and in turn, our actions always show love, we will truly reect the love of Christ as individuals and as a collective

body of believers (Philippians 2:1-5, Romans 12:9-13, 1 Peter 2:17, 1 John 4:7-11, 19, Ephesians 5:1-2, John 13:35, 1 Timothy 1:5).

If we, the PCA stakeholders:

PURSUE excellence, put

CHRIST rst in all things and

ALWAYS show love

…then Christ is our focus and all that we do will glorify Him.

GENERAL INFORMATION

14 | GENERAL INFORMATION

We believe that a Christian school must be fully and equally

committed to excellence in education and delity to biblical

truth. Prestonwood Christian Academy is unbending in its

dedication to provide the very best educational environment

for students entrusted to its care. Its administration, faculty,

support staff and curriculum adhere to the precepts and

principles of the Holy Scriptures, God’s inspired Word for this

and every age.

Statement of Doctrinal Beliefs

1. THE SCRIPTURES: I/We believe that the entire Bible,

all 66 books of the combined Old and New Testaments, are

verbally inspired by God and are inerrant in the original writ-

ings. Through the providence of God, the Word of God has

been protected and preserved, and is the only infallible and

authoritative rule of faith and practice. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2

Peter 1:20-21)

2. GOD: I/We believe that there is only one true, living,

sovereign, holy, and eternally existent God. He exists in three

co-equal persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – each being

a distinct person and with a distinct function, but all of one

essence and all possessing the same nature, perfection, and

attributes. The triune God is the creator and sustainer of all

things, the source of all truth, and is worthy of worship, con-

dence, and obedience. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Genesis 1:31)

3. JESUS CHRIST: I/We believe that Jesus Christ is God.

He was conceived by the Holy Spirit; born of a virgin, lived a

sinless life, performed many miracles, shed His blood on the

cross to pay the debt for our sins, was buried, bodily resur-

rected, and ascended to the right hand of the Father; and will

return literally, visibly, and personally in glory and power. (John

1:13,14; Matthew 1:18-25; Philippians 2:5-9; Colossians 1:15;

1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Acts 1:11)

4. HOLY SPIRIT: I/We believe that the Holy Spirit is God,

co-equal and co-existent with the Father and the Son. He is

the chief convictor of sin, the chief agent of regeneration and

sanctication. The Holy Spirit lives within every believer and

empowers every believer to live a godly life. (John 14:16-19;

16:7-15; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 8:9-11; Titus 3:5)

5. MANKIND: I/We believe that in the beginning God created

mankind in His image, and man is not in any sense the prod-

uct of evolution. Mankind was originally created with the ability

to live perfectly for God’s glory. (Genesis 1:27, 31) Man is the

special creation of God, made in His own image. He created

them male and female as the crowning work of His creation.

The gift of gender, as predetermined by God and revealed at

conception, is thus part of the goodness of God’s creation.

We believe that human life is sacred from conception to its

natural end; and that we must have concern for the physical

and spiritual needs of our fellow persons.

(Psalm 139:13; Isaiah 49:1; Jeremiah 1:5)

6. SIN: I/We believe that Adam, the rst man, sinned by

disobedience. This act resulted in the fall of all mankind;

therefore, all people have sinned and lost their ability to live

for the glory of God. Every person’s sin incurs both physical

and spiritual death until there is forgiveness and salvation by

the grace of God. (Genesis 3:1-24; Romans 3:10-23, 5:12-21,

6:23)

7. SALVATION: I/We believe the salvation of lost and sinful

people is a free gift of God’s grace apart from human works,

based solely upon Christ’s vicarious and atoning death,

effected by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, and

received only through faith in the person and nished work

of Jesus Christ on the cross and His resurrection from death.

(Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

8. THE CHURCH: I/We believe that the church is the body

of Christ and the family of God. It is made up of saved and

baptized believers, who regularly join together for worship, fel-

lowship, and ministry. (Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14;

Hebrews 10:25)

9. EVANGELISM: I/We believe that it is the responsibility

and privilege of every Christian to proclaim the good news of

Jesus Christ and to seek to make growing disciples. (Matthew

28:18-20; Acts 1:8)

10. THE HOME: I/we believe that God has ordained the

family as the foundational institution of human society. It is

composed of persons related to one another by monogamous

marriage, blood or adoption. Marriage is the uniting of one

genetic man and one genetic woman in the covenant commit-

ment. In addition to these important beliefs, I/we also believe

that God has given the parents and the home the responsibil-

ity to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of

the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6) I/We believe that a

consistent and whole education will occur when home, church,

and school work closely together and are in agreement on the

basic concepts of life.

GENERAL INFORMATION

15 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Purpose and Philosophy

An Academic Focus - A Christian Foundation

Purpose

The purpose of Prestonwood Christian Academy is to assist

Christian parents in providing a sound education for their children

through the integration of faith and learning. PCA is committed

to teaching a biblical view of God and the world through the

development of basic spiritual, intellectual, physical and social

skills.

Assisting Christian Parents

PCA endeavors to function as an extension of the Christian

home, supporting parents in the biblical mandate giving them

ultimate responsibility for the education of their children. Teachers,

parents and students must have a common grounding in the

Lordship of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Scripture and common

commitment to the work of education. In order to serve these

families with biblical instruction and godly examples, the school

employs administrators, faculty and staff who serve as role models

in their Christian walks, their professional lives and Christian faith.

Integration of Faith and Learning

The curriculum is rooted in a God-centered view of life, allowing

students the opportunity to understand themselves and the world

around them from a biblical perspective. All truth is found in

God and is derived from His revealed Word and from objective

observation of the world He created. In all matters, the Scriptures

are supreme. The integration of biblical faith and learning is

the responsibility and a primary function of the teacher at PCA.

The school endeavors to select the best instructional materials

available from secular and Christian publishers in order to reach

its overall goals.

We, at Prestonwood Christian Academy, believe that we have the

mission of enabling our students to live wholesome Christian lives

in a harsh and demanding world. In cooperation with the parents,

we will make the students aware that, while they are created in

God’s image, they are also blessed with distinctive personalities.

They will also learn that they are endowed with special talents,

which they will discover, and nally, that God has a purpose for

each of them, and they can achieve that purpose.

Prestonwood Christian Academy provides an environment that

balances a relationship with God through faith in Christ with

intellectual and artistic pursuits. Academic excellence, coupled

with the development of Christian character, will enable each

student to recognize God’s special plan for his or her life and to

strive to attain that goal.

We are well aware that the primary responsibility for raising

children rests with the parents. With that in mind, Prestonwood

Christian Academy believes that parent and school should work

in cooperation and harmony in nurturing, training, guiding and

expanding the child’s mind and spirit. Such cooperation

creates spiritually-vital families and the foundation not only of our

school, but also of our church, our community and

our nation.

PCA Crest

The primary colors for the PCA crest are navy and gold.

Elements of the Crest

• Lion: The lion is a symbol of courage, strength, gracefulness,

power and perseverance. As Christians, we should strive to

incorporate each of these qualities in our daily walk as we

pursue our various endeavors, all for the glory of Christ. The

lion is printed in a metallic gold color to represent the precious

metal of the same name. Gold is a symbol of wealth. It was a

gift that was suitable for the Christ child.

“...The wicked ee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous

are bold like a lion.” Proverbs 28:1

“...and opening their treasures they presented Him gifts

of gold.” Matthew 2:1

“...and the gold of that land is good.” Genesis 2:12

“...and the street of the city was pure gold.”

Revelation 21:21

• Red Cross: The cross represents Christ’s ultimate sacrice.

The red cross represents the blood that He

shed for each of us.

“...and He went out, bearing His own cross.” John 19:17

“...He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of

death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:8

“...But may it never be that I should boast, except in the cross

of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Galatians 6:14

GENERAL INFORMATION

16 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• Green Leaves: Green symbolizes the everlasting

quality of the characteristic of Christ.

“...the Everlasting God.” Genesis 21:33

“...lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:24

• Shield: The shield represents our protection in Christ by

having a personal relationship with Him and living in His

Word - the Holy Bible.

“...taking up the shield of faith with which you will be

able to extinguish all the aming missiles of the evil one.”

Ephesians 6:1

“...the Lord is my strength and shield.” Psalm 28:7

“...His faithfulness is a shield.” Psalm 91:4

• Latin Inscription: Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam”

- For the Greater Glory of God.

The Portrait of a PCA Graduate

All schools, including PCA, proclaim goals of developing

college preparatory skills as well as a certain level of

fundamental life skills. Understandably, the portrait of an

18 year-old’s character, work ethic, or academic prowess

is far from being complete, knowing that one’s mind, heart,

and overall maturity continues over a lifetime. Scripture

provides insight in that even Jesus matured in four areas

as described in Luke 2:52. This holistic scriptural maturity

paradigm provides a balanced picture, or portrait, for all

of us to contemplate. Indeed, the maturity cycle does not

end when one receives a diploma; however, there are

foundational training strategies that certainly increase the

probability of a child internalizing a desired belief system;

developing learning habits; and, genuinely living out a

Christ-like character trait. Although the primary molder of

these “portraits” are the parents, the school’s inuence

plays a signicant part. Thus, what does the school aspire

to produce? It is our prayer that our students graduate PCA

with the following foundational desired outcomes--Portrait of

a PCA Graduate:

1. Reverence for God is the beginning point of wisdom

(Proverbs 9:10). Without reverence and recognition of

God then education essentially is secular. Learning to

think and discern (Hebrews 5:14) as a mature believer

in Christ is undergirded by authentic respect and love

for our Lord.

2. An Eternal Perspective is interdependent with rever-

ence. This type of perspective gives us purpose in our

work and it develops a strong work ethic because we

know and understand that we are working to please

and honor God (Colossians 3:23). The Latin phrase

on our school crest, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the

Greater Glory of God), frames our motives.

3. Humility is then cultivated when one recognizes that

our life is about Him, we are ‘serving-as-His leader’.

Recognizing that God has bestowed intellect, talents and

gifts upon us takes the focus off of us and rightfully places

it on our Lord. This compels us to demonstrate the love

and attitude of Jesus Christ to all people, characterized by

selessness, servant-hood (Philippians 2:2-11) and a lifestyle

of obedience to seeking rst the kingdom of God (Matthew

6:33).

4. The process of learning, or scholarship, is conditioned by

reverence, eternal perspective, and humility. The Chris-

tian liberal arts environment nurtures the mind to become

eager to learn, think and analyze. All knowledge and every

academic discipline is appreciated, and not for a ‘grade’ per

se, but because the very process of learning—scholastic

excellence becomes a commitment to disciple the mind.

Using our mind to not only magnify God but to serve as His

ambassador in areas of law, business, medicine, engineer-

ing, education, ministry and any assignment God calls us to

is an act of obedience and reverence. The development of a

biblical worldview is the fruit of this process.

5. Rigor, high expectations, and accountability complement

the entire learning environment as students grow accus-

tomed to striving for excellence. Problem-solving, thinking,

critical analysis and synthesis strengthen the mind and

become natural thought processes. The apostle Paul encour-

aged the Corinthians to strengthen their mind (II Corinthians

10:5), including all systems of philosophy, opinions, and

powers of reason being subject to the Word of God. A culture

of rigor serves as a catalyst to pursue excellence in every

area of one’s life.

The PCA Code of Honor

The Prestonwood Christian Academy Code of Honor exists for

one purpose. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, which means: “For the

Greater Glory of God.” It is this statement that unies us in both

perspective and purpose.

Recognizing, with Christ-like humility that our life’s purpose is to

live for God’s Greater Glory inspires an environment of integrity,

honor and character. It is the intrinsic inspiration that produces

authentic school pride and cultivates an environment of self-

governance that transcends rules and regulations. There are no

mere words or a single document that can contain the way in

which we are to conduct ourselves at all times - this is found in

God’s own Word, and written on our hearts. It is our heart, our

identity.

Becoming a “pride” of Lions whose unied goal is to revere Christ

in all things motivates us to treat people with dignity and respect,

afrm our commitment to the school’s mission statement that

is eternal in perspective and emboldens students to embrace

biblical truth, strive for academic excellence, and model Christ-

like leadership. Afrmation of our mission drives a deep sense

of responsibility to preserve and pass on this culture to future

generations.

There are no man-made rules greater in value than the internal

resolve to uphold the principles that serve as the foundation of this

institution. We respectfully rally around Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,

our individual duty and commitment as “iron sharpening iron”

(Proverbs 27:17).

GENERAL INFORMATION

17 | GENERAL INFORMATION

The Five Tenets of the PCA Code

of Honor Perspective

Purpose

All stakeholders are challenged to focus on an eternal

perspective. It is through this eternal perspective that one submits

his or her attitude, rights and self to God and a cause that

transcends self.

Key Concepts:

• We have an eternal mindset vs. a temporary, earthly mindset

at all times,

• We possess a constant attitude of gratefulness,

• We are focused on being “others-centered,” seless

servants,

• We recognize that our transcendent cause is more important

than our personal agenda.

Purpose

Every member of the PCA community is challenged to understand

and commit to the school’s Mission Statement. The core compo-

nents of the Mission Statement are continually practiced.

In pursuit of excellence in education, the mission of Prestonwood

Christian Academy is:

To assist Christian parents by helping equip students to embrace

biblical truth, strive for academic excellence, and model Christ-like

leadership to inuence their homes, churches and communities

for Christ.

Key Concepts:

• We recognize that our partnership with parents (family) is

vital,

• We understand that embracing biblical Truth is much more

than “knowledge,”

• We know that striving for academic excellence requires

honesty, integrity and rigor, and

• We understand that modeling Christ-like Servant Leadership

is about being “others-centered,” and serving as His leader

to inuence others.

People

All people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Every-

one has value, therefore our focus should be on serving others.

This begins by respecting them.

Key Concepts:

• We treat all people with respect and dignity (teachers,

custodians, visitors, classmates, other schools and local

businesses),

• We recognize that simple actions such as a smile, friendly

greeting, handshake and eye contact demonstrate respect,

care and being “others-centered.”

Programs

Active participation in the life and culture of the school’s programs is

encouraged. Participation is a privilege and it is an honor to “wear the

jersey.” Supporting other participants models our “others-centered” prin-

ciple. Through participation and support, we are ambassadors for

the King.

Key Concepts:

• We know that our out-of-classroom experiences during school

hours, such as Chapel, service project day and Minimester

mission trips are a major part of our curriculum and that

understanding and supporting their purpose is demonstrated by

respect, and

• We respect that God made some to love the arts, some to love

athletics, and some to love academics or a combination of all.

Supporting one another creates unity and friendship. It makes our

school more complete when all of these programs succeed.

Property

The environment, and in particular, the school’s facilities and equipment

are to be maintained with the utmost care and respect. This stewardship

principle carries over into all areas of one’s life.

Key Concepts:

• We recognize that one only has to travel to another part of the

world to understand how PCA has been blessed with facilities,

• We never leave a space on campus until it is clean,

• We will stop to pick up trash whenever we see it, and

• PCA property is treated with respect therefore we do not do any-

thing that could potentially leave damage to its grounds, facilities or

contents therein.

GENERAL INFORMATION

18 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Joshua Plaza and the Divine

Servant

The following document chronicles the historical account

of naming Joshua Plaza, and the selection of the Divine

Servant Statue as the symbolic marker to communicate

Prestonwood Christian Academy’s ultimate aspiration:

to produce disciples of Jesus Christ. Several PCA

administrators, faculty, and alumni contributed to the

production of this document.

Joshua Plaza is Prestonwood Christian Academy’s marker

reminding past, present, and future generations of the

school’s covenant with God to remain fully committed to

the Biblical principles of Kingdom education. PCA’s culture

has always been characterized by meaningful ceremonies,

practices, and symbols. As is evident from the Latin

phrase Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (for God’s greater glory)

strategically placed on the school’s crest, the Baccalaureate

Coin Ceremony, the ve distinct attributes of the Portrait

of a PCA Graduate, and the annual commissioning of

the senior class at their graduation ceremony, we have a

profound respect for traditions and rituals. The origin of

PCA’s deep-rooted

devotion to culture-preserving ceremonies is God’s Word.

Scripture illuminates the importance of markers honoring

momentous events, sites and decisions.

Joshua Plaza was conceived in the school year 2006-07.

PCA was celebrating its ten-year anniversary, and the

school-wide theme for this celebratory year, A Decade of

Blessings, was based on Joshua chapter 24. Joshua 24 is

the concluding chapter in the narrative of Israel’s pursuit

and occupation of the Promised Land, as well as the

subsequent renewal of the Israelites’ covenant with God.

This covenant renewal reminds the people of the historical

faithfulness of God and the vow to serve and obey their

Lord. After recording the Israelites’ pledge, Joshua took a

large stone and set it up under an oak tree (Joshua 24:22-

28). The tree and stone constituted a tangible memorial

to the people concerning the renewal of their covenant to

faithfully serve God.

Similarly, the 2006-07 school year was a formative chapter

in the narrative of PCA’s pursuit and the establishment of

a culture focused on Kingdom education. Throughout the

year and in several special ceremonies, the PCA faculty

and staff, board of trustees, pastors, students, parents, and

alumni openly vowed to God to remain faithful to Him, to

His Word, and to an educational philosophy and process

whose goal was to produce disciples of Jesus Christ (this

Biblically-based educational philosophy is articulated fully in

PCA’s Constitution). Connected with all of these ceremonial

covenant proclamations was the selection of a specic

site where the visible marker would someday be placed.

Today’s Joshua Plaza was the site selected in 2006-07 for

this symbolic marker. The marker selected is the much-

acclaimed Divine Servant statue of Jesus washing the

feet of the Apostle Peter as recorded in John 13:1-17.

Joshua Plaza represents PCA’s acknowledgement that God

has established this school for the purpose of Kingdom

education, and the statue exemplies PCA’s goal of producing

disciples of Jesus Christ.

The statue displays an act of authentic humility in which Jesus

models the seless love that truly inuences people. Humility

is cultivated when we recognize that our lives are about Him—

we are “serving-as-His-leader.” Acknowledging that God has

bestowed intellect, talents, and gifts upon us takes the focus

off of us and rightfully places it on our Lord. This compels us to

demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ to all people, which is

characterized by seless servanthood (Philippians 2:2-11) and a

lifestyle of obedience to Christ’s command to seek rst the

Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). The word inuence is

acknowledged in the last nine words of PCA’s mission statement:

“…to inuence their homes, churches, and communities for

Christ.” It is our prayer and aspiration that the foundation from

which our students and alumni inuence the world consists of

these attributes: a heart of humility, reverence for God, an eternal

perspective, an attitude of boldness, and a mind that is regularly

transformed by the power of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.

Although the statue is the most prominent feature of Joshua

Plaza at rst glance, it pales in comparison to the most

renowned symbol in all of Christendom—the cross. Just across

the Prestonwood Lake stands the magnicent and glorious

cross. This large cross is actually our church’s original cross; it

was moved to this property when, out of obedience to God,

Pastor Jack Graham relocated the church in 1999.

As humble as it was for Jesus to wash His disciples’ feet, still His

greatest act of humility and resolve was to wash mankind’s

sins through His blood shed on the cross. It is on the cross

that the sacricial Lamb of God died, and by His grace offers

us salvation, the free gift of eternal life. We recognize that

education, intellect, and acts of service do not in themselves

transform hearts. Only the power of God can change hearts and

minds.

We humbly bow and dedicate our school to God. We lay every

individual and institutional accomplishment at the foot of the

cross. Although every other school marker signies its own

meaningful chapter in the PCA story, none is more prominent

than the cross. The amazing accomplishments of our sports

teams mounted on the Wall of Champions all face northward

towards the cross as if to recall the Apostle Paul’s challenge

to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, “Do you not know

that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?

Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who

competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it

to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.”

We will always run and compete in such a way as to win these

perishable crowns, but as followers of Christ, we will place the

higher priority on the crowns that are of eternal value, those that

are imperishable.

Our founding school trustees selected the lion as the school

mascot and placed it on the school crest. The lion represents

GENERAL INFORMATION

19 | GENERAL INFORMATION

honor, strength, and boldness (Proverbs 28:1)—characteristics

we want our students to develop. The PCA lion statue is a

marker in Gateway Plaza that stands tall, proud, and strong

as it greets the thousands of people who enter our campus

every year. But even this majestic lion’s posture is looking back

towards the cross as if to yield its strength and regal status to the

King of Kings and the Lord of Lords—Jesus Christ.

Statues, markers, and the names of facilities have no special

power in themselves, but they do establish benchmarks that

remind us of the transforming power of our Lord Jesus Christ. It

is our prayer that Joshua Plaza serves as a visible exhortation

for current and future generations of PCA stakeholders to

maintain past covenants through constant renewal. May we hold

fast to the unending goal to produce students who view their

diploma as a commission—a charge to pick up their towel and

serve others, bearing witness to the good news of Jesus Christ.

GENERAL INFORMATION

20 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Administrative Staff

Executive Team

Michael Goddard, Ed.D. Superintendent

Toni Perdue Executive Assistant to Dr. Michael Goddard

Clarence Williams, Ed.D. Deputy Superintendent and

North Campus Head of School

Anslie Dysart Executive Assistant to Dr. Clarence Williams

Shannon Cole, Ed.D. Assistant Superindent and

Plano Campus Head of School

Tayna Cooper Administrative Assistant

Laura Anson Chief Financial Ofcer

Angie Gray Chief Enrollment and Marketing Ofcer

Terry Rodgers, Ed.D. Chief Operations Ofcer

Gina Lineberger Administrative Assistant

Jeremiah Johnston, Ed.D. Dean of Spiritual Development

North Campus – Lower School (Grades Pre-K—4)

Katie Chretien, Ed.D. Principal

Becky Knight Assistant Principal

Jane Agee Administrative Assistant

Daphne Key Receptionist

Lucia Rodriguez Extended Day Coordinator

Sandy Matthews Nurse

North Campus – Middle/Upper School (Grades 5—12)

Greg Wright Principal

Lydia Vestal Assistant Principal

Kristin Dysart Guidance Counselor

Tasha Wilkinson Administrative Assistant

April Thurman Administrative Assistant

Sarah Grubbs Guidance Administrative Assistant and Registrar

Sandy Matthews Nurse

Plano Campus - Lower School Grades Pre-K—4

Jan Jeffcoat Principal

Ruth Ann Patrick Assistant Principal

Debi Clark Administrative Assistant

Amanda Henderson Guidance Counselor

Susan McKillip Receptionist

Tasha Wrona Extended Day Coordinator

Angella Fallin Extended Day Administrative Assistant

Janet Ludgar Nurse

Plano Campus - Middle School (Grades 5-8)

Kristan Williams Principal

Bill Doar Assistant Principal

***** Administrative Assistant

Sandy Burrell Guidance Counselor

Michelle Bedient Receptionist/Registrar

Rachel Paape Nurse

Plano Campus - Upper School (Grades 9—12)

Chad Nichols, Ed.D. Principal

Leslie Norris Assistant Principal

Kristi Holden Administrative Assistant

Alicia Guillen Receptionist

Nicole Hall Nurse

Amber Beckles Director of Guidance/College and Career Counseling

Erin Williams Upper School Counselor

Lea Ann Beem Guidance Counselor

Cindy Krummrey Guidance Counselor

Koko Carroll Registrar

Debbie Considine Guidance Ofce Manager

PCA Online

Kathryn Beck, Ph.D. Assistant Principal of PCA Online

Courtney Willingham PCA Online Coordinator

Admissions

Allison Taylor Admissions Lead – PCA Plano

Joyce Kim Admissions Associate – PCA Plano

Kathi Wagnon Admissions Associate –

PCA Plano, PCA Hybrid, PCA Online

Jennifer Obholtz Admissions Lead – PCA North

Mimi LaMendola Admissions Records Manager

Athletics - School System

Todd Graham Sr.Director of PCA System Development and Athletics

Athletics - Plano

Shanon Purcell Boys Assistant Athletic Director

Jillian Bryant Girls Assistant Athletic Director

Christeena Dyer Athletic Coordinator

Athletics – North

Shawn Purcell Boys Assistant Athletic Director

Heather Stewart Girls Assistant Athletic Director

April Thurman Administrative Assistant

Business Ofce

Kathryn Fondren Controller

Heidi Oosthuisen Accounting

Jan Arrington Accounts Payable

Amy Newton Parent/Business Ofce Liaison

Janet Fuller Parent/Business Ofce Liaison

Sarah Harmon Business Ofce Administration

Curriculum & Instruction

Natalie Velez Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Jami Bicknell Coordinator of Curriculum

Facility Services & Operations

Chris Schobey Director of Facilities

Brandon Jernigan Director of Operations

Ted Dysart Facility Operations Associate

Taylor Farfan Facility Operations Associate

Kyle Mendoza Facility Operations Associate

Melissa Ketchand Administrative Assistant

Fine Arts

Joel Rutherford Director of Fine Arts

Anna Leicht Administrative Assistant

Human Resources

Jodi Green Sr. Director of Human Resources

Christine Moore Payroll and Benets Administrator

Deanne Parker Director of Talent Acquisition and Engagement

Ellie Todd Engagement and Support Associate

Becky McLain Human Resources Assistant

Marketing and Communications

Katie McDonald Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications

Toby Graham Manager of Levi’s Locker

Alex Muirhead Digital Media Producer

Teruko LaMendola Communications Coordinator

Ashley Albertson Marketing Specialist

Kenzie Venus Communications Specialist

Ofce of Development

Megan Rogers Interim Director of Development Operations

Brian Aulenbach Director of Major Gifts

Lauren Aulenbach Director of Annual Funds

Heather Smith Director of Corporate Sponsorships

Alex Bellamy Director of Alumni Relations

Rachel Brewer Administrative Assistant

Program Support

Julie Pyle Event Coordinator – Plano Campus

Faith Christensen Co-Curricular Coordinator – Plano Campus

Elaina Esty Event / Co-Curricular Coordinator – North Campus

Special Programs

Dan Panetti Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry

Kim Stidham Director of Communication Arts

Specialized Services

Rob Kelton Director of Specialized Learning

Dena Goddard Dyslexia Coordinator

Angella Fallin Administrative Assistant

Spiritual Development

Maria Bower Director of Spiritual Development - Plano

Stephen Bryant Spiritual Development Associate - Plano

Courtney Caldwell Spiritual Development Associate- Plano

Josiah Isom Director of Spiritual Development - North

Technology Services

Barbara Brown Sr. Director of Technology

Dee Immanuel Administrative Assistant / Help Desk Support

Brad Hilton Technical Services Manager – Plano

James Wilkinson Technical Services Manager – North

Paul Locklin Technical Services Specialist

Doug Sanford Technical Services Specialist

Monica Palnau Instructional Digital Learning Specialist – Plano

Angela Tutt Instructional Digital Learning Specialist – North

Amy Villa Director of Technology Information Services

Rachel Christopher Database Administrator

Karin Porter Technology Information Services Specialist

GENERAL INFORMATION

21 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Admissions

The admissions process involves submitting the following: an

application, parents’ personal testimonies, records from previous

schools (if applicable), recommendations from current English

teacher, math teacher, and principal, a pastor recommendation,

and an admission assessment. Kindergarten and rst grade

applicants take an assessment of readiness skills given in a one-

on-one setting in the Admissions ofce. Second through twelfth

grade applicants take the Independent School Entrance Exam

(ISEE). PCA also accepts PSAT, SAT, and ACT scores for ninth

through twelfth grade applicants. Following the testing and when

the applicant le is complete, parents are invited for a personal

interview with an administrator.

Prestonwood Christian Academy does not discriminate on the

basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin in the administration

of any of its policies or programs. Admissions are contingent on

space, abilities of the student, philosophy, and willingness of the

family to participate within the school guidelines.

Provisional Acceptance: School records or admissions data

that indicate a signicant academic or behavioral problem may

result in the student being admitted provisionally. If the student

shows the ability to be successful at PCA, the provisional status

may be lifted. If the student is not able to be successful, another

placement may be recommended.

Anti-Harassment Policy

The environment at PCA must be one in which all individuals

are free to work, learn and develop relationships without fear

or intimidation or humiliation as a result of unwanted or unac-

ceptable behavior from others. This includes verbal or physical

conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an

individual because of his/her actual perceived identity with regard

to race, color, gender, age, disability, political beliefs, national

or ethnic origin, any other distinguishing physical or personality

characteristics, or any other characteristic protected by law. It is

essential to the well-being of all that students, teachers and staff

members treat each other with due respect for rights, individuality

and personal dignity.

Attendance

Students enrolled at Prestonwood Christian Academy are

expected to be in attendance a minimum of 90% each semester.

Students falling below this percentage (including excused and un-

excused absences) will have their attendance record reviewed by

the Attendance Committee and a possible plan created to ensure

required attendance is maintained for the remainder of the school

year. Academic consequences and for excessive absences may

be applied at the discretion of the division to which the student

reports.

Bullying Policy

Negative behavior exhibited by students is addressed in a fair

and balanced manner. Bullying is characterized by an individual

behaving in a certain way, whether physically, verbally, or through

cyber means, to gain power or control over another person. Once

the school is made aware of any such behavior, the situation

is evaluated as to the seriousness of the behavior by using the

guidelines below:

Immature Behavior

• No intent to be unkind

• Annoying activity that causes discomfort

• Foolish actions that may cause harm to others and/or their

property

Immature Behavior: Such behavior will primarily be addressed by

the classroom teacher. Consequences for this type of behavior

will require restitution and possible loss of privileges and/or

detention.

Unkind Behavior

• Intent is to be unkind

• Behavior is not frequent

• Behavior intensity level is low

• Behavior may reect impulsivity and is infrequent

• Behavior duration is short

Unkind Behavior: Such behavior may be addressed by the

classroom teacher or school administration. Consequences for

this type of behavior will require restitution and some type of

detention. In addition, a Saturday School may be given. A parent

conference will take place.

Bullying Behavior

Bullying is an act of repeated aggressive behavior (including

ridicule) in order to intentionally hurt another person, physically or

emotionally. Bullying is characterized by an individual behaving in

a certain way to gain power or control over another person.

• Intent is to be harmful (physically, emotionally,

psychologically, or any combination of the three)

• Behavior is frequent

• Behavior intensity level is moderate to severe

• Behavior duration is long

• Negative behavior is mostly one sided

Bullying: Such behavior is determined and addressed by the

classroom teacher and school administration. Consequences for

this type of behavior will require restitution, a parent conference

and a minimum of one day suspension.

GENERAL INFORMATION

22 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Student Discipline

General Guidelines

School personnel shall adhere to the following general

guidelines when imposing discipline:

1. A student shall be disciplined when necessary to improve

the student’s behavior, to maintain essential order, or to

protect other students, school employees or property.

2. Students shall be treated fairly and equitably. Discipline

shall be based on a careful assessment of the

circumstances of each case. Factors to consider shall

include:

a. The seriousness of the offense;

b. The student’s age;

c. The frequency of misconduct;

d. The student’s attitude; and

e. The potential effect of the misconduct on the school

environment

f. The impact of others

3. In the ideal structure of Kingdom education, the home,

the church, and the school work together in a cooperative

manner to fully educate and train students. Cooperation

between these three groups must be evident to fully

develop the character of the student, and promote

behavior consistent with biblical worldview. Whenever

the student behavior problems arise, there can be the

temptation to focus on the disciplinary process rather than

the actual problem. The goal of discipline is to correct

and train students while protecting the overall safety and

educational environment of PCA.

During the course of investigating actions and events

concerning possible student incidents, the School

may seek to question students alone or in groups.

Administrators have full discretion in the questioning of

students, and in the evaluation of events may conduct

their investigation without parental notication or

attendance. The administration strives to adapt individual

discipline procedures and processes to the needs of the

student, and communicate expectations and ndings to

parents in a timely manner.

Attending PCA is a privilege that is extended on the

condition that students and parents accept and support

school policies. The School, in its sole discretion, makes

the nal determination of whether there has been a

violation of the School’s Student Code of Conduct. If

a student is suspended, expelled or withdrawn due to

disciplinary actions, there is no refund of tuition or waiver

of nancial obligations.

Student Code of Conduct

At the beginning of the school year and throughout the school

year as needed, the Student Code of Conduct shall be made

available on myPCA and/or as hard copy to students, parents,

teachers, administrators and to others on request.

Revisions

Revisions to the Student Code of Conduct included in the

Parent/Student Handbook shall be made as needed and are

approved by school administration. Revisions made during the

year are communicated electronically.

‘Parents’ Dened

Throughout the Parent/Student Handbook, Student Code of

Conduct and discipline policies, the term “parents” includes a

parent, legal guardian or other person having lawful control

of the child.

Corporal Punishment

PCA prohibits the use of corporal punishment. Students shall

not be spanked or paddled for violations of any kind.

Physical Restraint

Within the scope of an employee’s duties, a school employee

may physically restrain a student if the employee reasonably

believes restraint is necessary in order to:

1. Protect a person, including the person using physical

restraint, from physical injury.

2. Obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object.

3. Remove a student refusing a lawful command of a school

employee from a specic location, including a classroom or

other school property, in order to restore order or to impose

disciplinary measures.

4. Control an irrational student.

5. Protect property from serious damage.

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365

Students are expected to represent PCA in a positive manner

even when they are not on school grounds and/or attending

school functions (including extracurricular activities). Students

and their parents acknowledge and understand that students

are subject to discipline for conduct occurring off-campus or

during non-school hours, including weekends, holidays and

summers. The administration will deal directly with any student

who violates the Student Code of Conduct or draws attention

to PCA in a negative manner which may result in disciplinary

action or a student’s dismissal from the school.

A student may be removed from participation in extracurricular

activities or may be excluded from school honors or more

for violation of extracurricular standards of behavior for an

activity or for violation of Student Code of Conduct relating to

24/7/365.

Video/Audio Monitoring

Video/audio equipment is to be used for safety purposes to

monitor student behavior on the school campus.

Use of Recordings

Recordings shall be reviewed as needed by the principal,

and evidence of student misconduct shall be documented. A

student found to be in violation of the school’s Student Code of

Conduct shall be subject to appropriate discipline.

GENERAL INFORMATION

23 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Access to Recordings

Video recordings obtained from surveillance cameras that contain

images of students are student records. Video surveillance

records will only be released to local law enforcement.

Personal Electronic Devices

Personal electronic devices (including personal communication

devices such as cellphones and computers) are discussed in the

divisional sections of the handbook. Please note, audio or video

recording may not be conducted anywhere on the PCA campus

without the prior approval of PCA Administration. No audio or

video recording is permitted in bathrooms or locker rooms under

any circumstances.

Parent/Staff Communication Guidelines

The beginning of PCA’s Mission Statement points out the

incredible opportunity for the school to “assist Christian parents”

and that responsibility and privilege is taken very seriously.

Understandably, there may be times when conict will arise and

issues must be resolved.

The Apostle Paul gives some words of wisdom for both parents

and school personnel as each enters into this endeavor. Romans

12:10 says, “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one

another in showing honor.” Let us remember this challenge not to

avoid conict that can bring clarity to a situation, but to prioritize

the greater calling, which is to honor God with our words and

actions, especially when those communications can be difcult

and emotional. We “do our work heartily as unto the Lord, and

not for man”(Col. 3:23), and we are encouraged as Christians to

“do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others

more signicant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only

to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Phil.

2:3-4). With these verses and this mindset as our framework,

the process of resolving issues of conict or misunderstanding

promises to be God-honoring and a witness to a watching world

of how brothers and sisters in Christ seek to “live in harmony with

one another” (Romans 12:16).

To that end, here are guidelines for parents to follow when

addressing concerns with the faculty and staff of Prestonwood

Christian Academy:

Step 1: Contact Individual Staff Member Experience has shown

that the majority of concerns can be resolved through one-

on-one conversation with the staff member directly connected

with the parent concern. Parents are to rst contact that staff

member to discuss via email or phone conversation, or in a

face-to-face meeting with the purpose of resolving the issue and

both parties are in agreement with any next steps that are to be

taken to ensure the success of the student in all areas. Every

communication, parent to faculty/staff and vice versa, should be

prayed through and presented with civility and “brotherly love”

(Romans 12:10).

Step 2: Contact Campus Administrator If a concern is unable to

be resolved through a conversation or meeting between parent

and staff member, campus administrators are available to assist

in facilitating a resolution. Parents may contact the principal or

assistant principal, after following Step 1, to request a meeting

for the purpose of assisting to resolve the issue, aid in the

development of a plan of action to ensure student success in all

areas, and encourage restoration of the relationship between

parent and staff member while adhering to the policies and

procedures outlined in the PCA Parent/Student Handbook.

Only after Step 1 and Step 2 have been completed and

documented should a parent request additional intervention at

the next level by completing a Conict Resolution Request Form

found on the divisional tile of myPCA and submitting it to the

appropriate campus Head of School ofce.

PCA Dress Code

Prestonwood Christian Academy has chosen to implement the

dress code policy by the adoption of a uniform program. The

administration reserves the right to determine if a student is

dressed and groomed appropriately. We require that all uniforms

be purchased through Lands’ End School Uniforms. Lands’ End

School Uniforms can assist you with the required components for

each grade level.

There are clear biblical principles that ought to govern choice

for dress:

1. Dress types are deemed inappropriate if they attract undue

attention to the outward appearance, detracting from the

reection of Christ, which initiates internally

(1 Timothy 2:9-10).

2. Dress is to be distinctively masculine and feminine, reecting

a wholesome appreciation for God’s creative plan

(Deuteronomy 22:5).

3. Immodesty in dress is incompatible with the concept of the

Christian as one indwelt by the Holy Spirit, God Himself

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

General Lower School Dress Code

Guidelines

• Shirts are to be tucked in at all times.

• Only solid white I-shirts (without writing) may be worn under

uniform shirts.

• Students may only wear PCA sweatshirts, hoodies,

sweaters, and jackets (purchased at Levi’s Locker) during

the school day. Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at

all times under approved outerwear.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students in

grades 2nd and above only if belt loops are visible. If belt

loops are covered by PCA outwear, then no belt is required.

• Hats may not be worn inside the school building.

GENERAL INFORMATION

24 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• Abnormal hairstyles/highlights/feathers are not permitted.

• Tattoos and/or body piercings (except ear-piercings for

girls) are not permitted.

• Shoes must be a matching pair, and have a closed toe and

heel. Lower School shoes must be predominantly white,

navy, black, brown, or gray. No blinking lights or wheels are

allowed.

• Socks must be a matching pair and be predominantly white,

navy, black, or gray. Lower School fringed socks must

match uniform.

• It is important that every uniform item be labeled with the

owner’s name. PCA is not responsible for misplaced items.

• Pants and shorts must be worn at the waist, above the hips.

• Middle and Upper School shoes must be a matching pair

and have a closed toe and heel.

• Girls may also wear saddle oxfords or Mary Janes. Boys

and girls may wear loafers or Sperrys®that are solid color.

• At all before school and after school PCA events (sporting

events, ne arts events, etc.) students donot need to be

inuniform but must follow similar guidelines and dress

standards of PCA.

• Lower School girls must wear modesty shorts under skirts,

skorts or jumpers. Appropriate undergarments must be

worn at all times and should not visible.

Field Trip Attire

Casual Attire: The monogrammed Prestonwood Christian

Academy shirt with collar is worn with uniform shorts, slacks

or denim pants. Denim shorts/skorts are not allowed. PCA

sweatshirts and jackets are appropriate to wear with the

monogrammed shirt. This collared shirt may also be worn with

uniform shorts/pants on any school day, with the exception of

chapel day when the chapel shirt should be worn. No baggy

jeans or jeans with holes or frayed ends, denim shorts, or denim

skirts are allowed. Belts must be worn if jeans have belt loops

and shirts must be tucked in at all times. Uniform shoes should

be worn on all eld trips.

Spirit Day Attire

Items purchased through Levi’s Locker, which include PCA-

branded t-shirts (not general t-shirts) or sweatshirts are

acceptable to wear with uniform shorts, slacks and denim pants.

Denim shorts / skorts are not allowed. No baggy jeans and no

jeans with holes or frayed ends will be allowed. Belts are to be

worn in adherence with the general dress code guidelines for

boys. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Non-uniform tennis

shoes may be worn. Blinking lights, wheels or shoes that make

noise are not allowed. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel.

General Middle School Dress Code

Guidelines

At all events held before or after school hours on campus, stu-

dents are not required to be in school uniform, but they must be

dressed modestly and appropriately for the event.

• Shirts are to be tucked in at all times.

• Students may only wear PCA sweatshirts, hoodies,

sweaters, and jackets(purchased at Levi’s Locker) during

the school day. Uniformpolo shirt collar should bevisible at

all times under approved outerwear.

• Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at all times under

approved outerwear.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students only

if belt loops are visible. If belt loops are covered by PCA

outwear, then no belt is required.

• Hats may not be worn inside the school building.

• Hairstyles that are deemed distracting to the school

environment are not permitted.

• Tattoos and/or body piercing (except ear-piercings for girls)

are not permitted while student is enrolled at PCA.

• Socks should match and be predominantly white, navy,

black, or gray.

• It is important for every uniform item to be identied with the

owner’s name. PCA is not responsible for misplaced items.

• Pants and shorts must be worn at the waist, above the hips.

Shoes must have a closed toe and heel.

• Shoes should be a matching pair, predominantly white,

navy, black, brown, or gray. No blinking lights or wheels are

allowed.

• Appropriate undergarments must be worn at all times and

should not visible.

At all before hour and after hour PCA events (sporting events,

ne arts events, etc.), students do not need to be in uniform but

must be dressed modestly. Dress code while on-campus and

attending school-sponsored events such as: Retreat, Athletic

and Fine Arts events, Athletic and School Competitions:

• Logos, images and sayings on shirts should be PCA

appropriate.

• Shirts must cover the stomach, have sleeves (no tank tops)

and not show cleavage.

• Shorts should be modest and have full coverage. If wearing

a t-shirt, shorts should be visible at all times.

• When wearing leggings, a shirt should cover your backside

at all times or shorts should be worn over the leggings. No

spandex shorts.

GENERAL INFORMATION

25 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Field Trip Attire

Students must wear required eld trip attire (uniform shirt and

uniform pants, skirt, or shorts) unless special permission has been

obtained from an administrator. No baggy jeans, jeggings or jeans

with holes, rips, frays or tears is allowed. Belts must be worn if

jeans have belt loops and shirts must be tucked in at all times.

All uniform sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets are appropriate to

wear on eld trips. Special dress guidelines for eld trips may be

communicated as needed depending on nature of trip.

Spirit Day Attire

Most items purchased through Levi’s Locker, which include PCA-

branded t-shirts, sweatshirts, and denim shirts, are acceptable to

be worn with uniform shorts, slacks, denim pants and appropriate

shoes. No denim shorts or skorts are allowed. No baggy jeans,

jeggings or jeans with holes, rips, tears or frays or non-uniform

shorts are allowed. Belts are to be worn in adherence with the

general dress code guidelines for boys.

General Upper School Dress Code

Guidelines

• Only solid white I-shirts (without writing) may be worn under

uniformshirts.

• Uniform shirts are to be worn under PCA outerwear.

• Students may only wear PCA sweatshirts, hoodies,

sweaters, and jackets (purchased at Levi’s Locker) during

the school day. Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at

all times under approved outerwear.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students only

if belt loops are visible. If belt loops are covered by PCA

outwear, then no belt is required.

• Socks should match and be predominantly white, navy,

black, or gray.

• Hats may not be worn inside the school building. Abnormal

hairstyles are not permitted.

• It is important for every uniform item to be identied with the

owner’s name. PCA is not responsible for misplaced items.

• Pants and shorts must be worn at the waist,above the hips.

• At all before school and after school PCA events (sporting

events, ne arts events,etc.), students do not need to be in

uniform but must follow similar guidelines.

• Appropriate undergarments must be worn at all times and

should not visible.

At all before hour and after hour PCA events (sporting events, ne

arts events, etc.), students do not need to be in uniform but must

be dressed modestly. Dress code while on-campus and attending

school-sponsored events such as: Retreat, Athletic and Fine Arts

events, Athletic and School Competitions:

• Logos, images and sayings on shirts should be PCA

appropriate.

• Shirts must cover the stomach, have sleeves (no tank tops)

and not show cleavage.

• Shorts should be modest and have full coverage. If wearing

a t-shirt, shorts should be visible at all times.

• When wearing leggings, a shirt should cover your backside

at all times or shorts should be worn over the leggings. No

spandex shorts.

Spirit Day Attire

On spirit days, students may wear any PCA approved t-shirt with

uniform shorts, pants or appropriate blue denim pants (denim

shorts or skorts are not allowed) and appropriate shoes. No baggy

jeans, jeans with holes, rips, tears or frays or non-uniform shorts!

Denition of Campus

The Prestonwood Christian Academy Plano Campus is

encompassed within the boundaries formed by Midway Road,

Plano Parkway, Marsh Lane and Hebron Parkway. The PCA North

Campus is located at 1001 W. Prosper Trail, in Prosper, Texas.

All buildings, athletic facilities/elds, parking areas and student

lockers utilized by PCA students and/or faculty within the above

mentioned perimeter are considered part of the PCA Campus as it

relates to any school-related activities.

Disaster Drills

Practice drills are provided for re and tornado safety precautions.

Fire drill charts are posted in each classroom.

Evacuation practices are conducted and recorded in an orderly

fashion. Fire drills are held throughout the year in conjunction with

state and local requirements.

Pulling the re alarm with undue cause results in reporting to

the county re department, and/or disciplinary action. Careless

or malicious initiating of a false alarm is an extreme offense that

could lead to serious injury in an attempt to evacuate the building.

Deliberate offenses are handled with the utmost severity. The

student and his/her family become nancially responsible for fees

resulting from a false alarm.

Extended Day

Extended Day is committed to providing a safe, onsite

environment for your student to receive after school care.

This service is offered exclusively to PCA students ranging

in grades from PreK to 8th grade. The Extended Day staff is

composed of PCA faculty and childcare professionals that align

with our biblical beliefs and school mission. PCA is fortunate

to be able to provide this service to our parents and attending

Extended Day is considered a privilege. Students participating in

this program are required to adhere to the PCA Code of Conduct.

Discipline policies that pertain to the school day, also apply to

the Extended Day program. An administrator at any time has the

authority to remove a student and/or revoke their enrollment from

the Extended Day program.

Registration is required. Program details, pricing, and enrollment

information can be found on myPCA.

Facilities Usage

All school events taking place on or off the Prestonwood Christian

Academy campus must be approved by the PCA administrative

ofce. Only when the event is approved will it be placed on the

school calendar.

GENERAL INFORMATION

26 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Financial Information

Key Contacts

Centralized points of contact for PCA’s Business Ofce are as

follows:

Student Billing

[email protected]

Tuition Assistance

[email protected]

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and annual fee payments are automatically debited

from the method of payment registered in FACTS Tuition

Management [hyperlink should remain the same] in accordance

with the established payment plan.

Families are encouraged to enroll in FACTS Auto Pay for

incidental and co-curricular charges. This enables payment to

be debited from the method of payment registered in FACTS.

Families not enrolled in FACTS Auto Pay for incidental and co-

curricular charges will need to log in to FACTS to remit payment

manually. Payments can also be made directly with FACTS by

calling (866) 441-4637 Monday – Thursday 7am-7pm or Friday

7am-5pm.

If an account becomes more than 30 days delinquent, PCA

reserve the right to limit or remove access to school resources

and participation in school activities until the account is brough

current. If the account remains delinquent, the student’s

enrollment may be revoked. Student records including report

cards, testing results, academic transcripts, and diplomas are

not released for delinquent accounts

Withdrawal of a Student & Termination of

Contractual Agreement

When you sign the enrollment contract, you pledge to PCA that

you will pay tuition, fees and other relevant charges. If you

nd it necessary to withdraw your child from PCA, notify the

admissions director or the administrative ofces in your child’s

division and complete aq Student Withdrawal Form. Additional

details regarding the termination of contractual agreement can

be found in the annual contract of enrollment for each student.”

Medical Information

Please note Medical Information guidelines are subject to change

during the school year.

First Aid

We have a nurse on staff and teachers are provided rst aid kits

equipped with band-aids and antiseptic to assist students with

the cleansing of cuts and abrasions. With the exception of an

emergency, the student must have a pass from a teacher to be

admitted to the clinic.

Medication

We recognize that there are times when students will need to

take medications during the school day. All medication brought

to school must be in the original container and kept in the school

nurse’s ofce. If a prescription or over-the-counter medication

(OTC) must be given during the school day, each must be

accompanied by a note signed by the parent or legal guardian

giving directions for its administration including date, time,

dosage and reason for administration. Prescription medication

which does not appear to be prescribed to the child will not be

administered even with a parental consent form. A physician’s

signature is required to administer OTC medications for more

than 10 consecutive days.

Non-prescription PCA approved stock

meds.

PCA health clinics maintain a limited supply of approved non-

prescription medications for unexpected situations at school

when no parent-provided non-prescription medication has

been provided. These medications may be given by the nurse

in accordance with the standing orders provided by the PCA’s

medical advisor and with appropriate written or electronic

parent/guardian consent. Upon school enrollment, the parent/

guardian is given the opportunity to electronically consent to the

administration of these approved non-prescription medications.

In the event a parent does not consent to these medications

during enrollment, the parent may provide written consent by

completing a medication request form. Verbal consent is not

acceptable. Any other over-the-counter medication not included

on the approved non-prescription stock medication list requires

a separate medication request form to be lled out with the

medication in it’s original container. The nurse reserves the right

not to administer any medication which the nurse would deem

unsafe. At any time, a nurse can request physician consent for

student’s needing non-prescription medication more than the

occasional use. Dye-free medications will not be provided and

must be supplied by the parent/guardian.

Texas State Law now allows students with asthma to carry and

self-administer their own inhalers provided certain conditions

are met. These conditions indicate that an asthma action plan

developed and signed by the child’s physician and signed by

the parent or legal guardian must be on le with school health

services.

Illness Exclusion from School for Health

Reasons

To protect all children from communicable illnesses, students

infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school

while they are contagious. Students should be symptom free for

24 hours before returning to school. Contact your campus nurse

if you are unsure whether your child should return to school.

The guidelines below have been developed for the exclusion

of students who have communicable or contagious diseases.

These regulations are in compliance with requirements of the

local health authority, and Prestonwood Christian Academy

administrative guidelines.

GENERAL INFORMATION

27 | GENERAL INFORMATION

A student with any of the following symptoms will be excluded from

school until such time as the student is free of symptoms, has been

satisfactorily treated or submits a signed physician’s statement that

he/she is not contagious.

• Temperature of 100 degrees or more. Student must be fever free

for 24 hours, without medication, before re-entry.

• Swelling beneath the jaw in front of one or both ears.

• Undetermined rash over any part of the body accompanied by

fever.

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Student must be symptom free for

24 hours without medication before re-entry.

• Red eyes with colored discharge and crusting around eyes.

• Open, draining lesion or blisters.

For readmission, some diseases may require a statement

from the student’s physician afrming that the student is not

contagious.

Parents are expected to pick sick children up from school within one

hour of contact by the nurse/school personal. Arrangements should

be made in advance of illness so that if your child becomes ill at

school during the school day, someone will be available to pick your

child up within the hour. The school nurses are not on duty during

extended care after the end of the school day.

Students diagnosed by their physician with strep throat must be fever

free for 24 hours without fever reducers, have been on antibiotics

for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school and bring a

physician’s note documenting the date the student is permitted to

return to school.

Parents of students who are sent home with illness and parents of

students who are absent with illness must contact the school nurse

before bringing the student to campus to verify that the child is

permitted to return to on campus instruction.

In the event any student has been diagnosed with a communicable

disease (Chicken pox, inuenza, pertussis, strep pharyngitis,

measles, COVID-19, etc.) the parents are expected to notify PCA,

and the student will only be re-admitted to school once a medical

provider has given written permission for the child to return to school

and the illness guidelines have been followed.

Returning to School After Hospitalization

Students will not be allowed to return to school following

hospitalization for illness or injury until the school nurse has an ofcial

written release from the physician authorizing the student to return

to school. The physician must indicate any restrictions, activity or

otherwise, for the student.

Other Infectious Conditions:

• “Pink eye” bacterial conjunctivitis – students presumed to

have bacterial conjunctivitis will be sent home and they may

not return to school until the student has been on antibiotic eye

drops for a minimum of 24 hours, and symptoms have improved.

• Head lice – students found to have head lice will be sent home

from school and will not be permitted to return to campus until

cleared by the nurse. Students must be treated with the proper

lice-killing shampoo or an approved alternative treatment, and all

eggs (nits) and live bugs have been combed out.

• Molluscum Contagiosum – a student diagnosed with

molluscum on an area of the body that can come in contact with

other students will be required to keep the lesions covered while

at school.

Routine Medication Administration

If your child needs routine medication rst thing in the morning,

please administer the medication before you leave your home.

Routine medications will be administered by the nurse with the

appropriate written documentation from the parent or physician, but

will not be administered within the rst 2 hours of the school day (with

few exceptions).

Immunizations

All new students are required to submit an ofcial copy of the

student’s immunization records. To be considered ofcial, the

immunization records must have either a physician’s signature or

stamp. Parents are responsible for submitting updated immunization

records to the school when they occur.

Students must be vaccinated as required by the State of Texas as

follows:

• DTP/DtaP: Five doses, including one received on or after the child

turns 4; must be received by Kindergarten entry. Four doses are

required for Pre-K students.

• MMR: One dose received on or after the child turns one; must

have a total of two doses by Kindergarten entry.

• Hepatitis A: All students in Pre-K 4 through 12

grades are

required to have two doses. Students younger than 42 months

are required to have one dose. The rst dose must have been

received on or after the rst birthday.

• Hepatitis B: Three doses are required for all students in Pre-K

through 12

grades. For students 11-15 years of age, two doses

meet the requirement only if the adult vaccine was given AND if it

is clearly documented that Recombivax was given at a dose of 10

mcg/1.0 ml.

• Polio: Four doses, including one received on or after the child

turns four; all four doses must be received by K entry. Three doses

for students younger than four.

• Hib: A complete series of Hib vaccine or one dose given on or

after 15 months of age is required for all students under ve years

of age.

• Prevnar/PCV: Students in Pre-K are required to have had three

doses of pneumococcal vaccine with one of the three doses

having been given on or after 12 months of age. Two doses meet

the requirement if both were given on or after 12 months of age.

One dose meets the requirement if it was given on or after 24

months of age.

• Varicella/Chicken Pox: One dose is required for students in

Pre-K. Two doses after the rst birthday are required for all

students in K through 12th grades. For students who have

had chickenpox disease, an approximate month and year of

chickenpox disease must be documented by the child’s health

care provider on the immunization record or by a parent signed

statement stating the approximate date and year the child had

chickenpox disease.

GENERAL INFORMATION

28 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• Tdap/Td booster: All students entering 7

grade are required

to have a booster dose of Tdap vaccine if it has been ve years

since their last dose of tetanus containing vaccine. Students

in grades 8-12 are required to have a booster dose of Tdap

if it has been 10 years since their previous dose of tetanus/

diphtheria vaccine. Td is acceptable if a medical contraindication

to pertussis exists.

• Meningococcal Vaccine: One dose of Megninogococcal

vaccine given on or after the 11th birthday for all students

entering grades 7-12. If the vaccine was given at 10 years of age

this also satises the requirement.

Students who are not in compliance with state immunization

guidelines will not be allowed to attend school or participate in

school-sponsored activities. All students must show proof that the

above immunizations have been received before the rst day of

school. Current immunization records and non-expired original

conscience exemption forms must be on le with the school nurse

prior to school attendance.

Exemption for Reasons of Conscience

Exemptions for reasons of conscience, including religious

beliefs are allowable. To claim the Afdavit of Exemption from

Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience form go to www.

immunizetexas.com then scroll down to School and Childcare

Immunizations then click School Requirements and scroll down to

Exemption Information. The parent or legal guardian must submit

a request to obtain the Afdavit of Exemption from Immunizations

for Reasons of Conscience form to the Department of State

Health Services Immunization Branch. It will most likely take at

least 3 weeks for the form to be mailed from Austin, so please

allow sufcient time to receive it and get it notarized before school

begins. You must submit the original non-expired completed,

signed, dated and notarized form to the school nurse. Copies and

expired forms are void and will not be accepted. Since proof of

immunization status is required before the rst day of school, to

claim this exemption, this form must be submitted prior to the rst

day of school. A new original copy of this form is required to be

resubmitted every 2 years. In the event of a disease outbreak, the

Texas Department of State Health Services or state or local health

authority may mandate that students having exemptions from

immunizations be kept out of school until the outbreak is over as

determined by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

If your child is on a delayed immunization schedule and is not

meeting the above requirements, then it is expected that you will

submit an Afdavit of Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of

Conscience until your student has received all of the immunization

doses as required according to the immunization requirements

above.

Comprehensive information about immunization requirements can

be found at www.immunizetexas.com under School Requirements

K-12 and under Childcare Requirements for students who are

attending PreK.

Medication Consent

Any medications to be administered during the school day to any

students must be kept in the nurse’s ofce along with a completed

Medication Consent Form informing the nurse of the dosage and

the time to be given. Medication Consent Forms are available

from the clinic. All medication must be in its original container with

specic directions. No medications are administered without a

completed Medication Consent Form.

Medications that are sent to school and must go home at the end of

the school day are the responsibility of the parent. When bringing

prescription medications to school, please have your pharmacist

label a second bottle for school use.

Although it is best to time dosages of OTC medications to avoid

dosages at school, the clinic will assist families by dispensing those

types of medications (i.e. allergy medications) when absolutely

necessary. At no time will the recommended dosages for OTC

medications be exceeded without a written, signed request from

the child’s physician. The nurses reserve the right to refuse

to administer any medication or treatment if their professional

judgement deems it unsafe to do so.

End of Year Medication Pick Up

All medications stored in the clinic must be picked up by the parent/

guardian by the end of the last day of classes. Please be aware, the

school nurse will destroy all medications remaining in the clinic the

day after the last day of classes. If the parent/guardian wishes to

make other arrangements, he/she should contact the school nurse.

Student Emergency Contacts

Emergency contacts are required for every student. Parents are

required to review and update the student’s emergency contacts

online on the student’s myPCA contact card prior to the start of

school. Changes to emergency contact information in myPCA will

automatically be updated nightly in the Magnus, PCA’s student

health system. In an emergency, every attempt is made to reach

the parents; however, if the parent cannot be reached, the contact

person listed under emergency contacts is called.

Fund Raising

Fund raising makes it possible to recruit and retain the most

dedicated and stimulating teachers and to provide the highest-

quality programming. All fund raising must be approved through the

PCA Development Ofce.

Tuition and fees cover approximately 95% of the cost of a PCA

education. The rest comes from voluntary, tax deductible donations

from parents, faculty, staff, alumni, grandparents, parents of alumni

and friends of PCA.

Fund raising at Prestonwood Christian Academy comes in a variety

of events yearly, to support the current operations of PCA. These

gifts help enhance the day-to-day life of every student and faculty

member by supporting a variety of programs, including academics,

faculty development, the arts, athletics, technology and the Library

Resource Center. We encourage the members of the school

community to share their God-given treasures to permit the school

to continue carrying out its mission.

Inclement Weather

It may be necessary to close or delay the start of school because

of ice, snow or other inclement weather. Additionally, school may

need to dismiss early due to inclement weather. It is important that

you tune in to a local radio, TV station or online news source when

there is a question regarding inclement weather or dangerous road

conditions. We will update the PCA website (please remember

to refresh the page frequently for updates) and notify most major

area radio and television media of any delays, closures or early

dismissals. It is, however, the decision and responsibility of the area

radio and television stations to air such notices.

GENERAL INFORMATION

29 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Legal Proceedings

If the school (or any of its employees, board members, volunteers, or

agents) is involved in legal disputes between the Student’s parents/

legal guidance and/or other legal disputes any domestic or other legal

disputes, the school shall be promptly reimbursed for all expenditures

incurred. Additional information regarding reimbursement to PCA can

be found in the enrollment contract.

Library

It is the mission of the PCA Library is to prepare students in grades

PreK—12 to be information literate in the 21

century as well as

advancing them toward the premises of being life-long learners and

seekers of God’s truth. It is our goal to accomplish this by inspiring,

motivating and challenging them through the use of technology and

the printed word.

North Campus Lower School (Pre-K—Grade 12)

Plano Campus Lower School (Pre-K—Grade 4)

Students in grades PK-4 will utilize the elementary Library facility for

all their book needs as well as having the availability to do research.

The Library has an open door policy for students but also operates

from a planned schedule agreed upon by the faculty.

There is a set limit to the number of books each student can checkout

and books must be returned before more can be checked out. A

renewal system is available if a student needs an extension on his/

her time limit. Charges are assessed for damaged or lost books and

must be paid through the Business Ofce in order for the nal report

card to be released. The Library is open each day 7:50 a.m. - 3:30

p.m. with the exception of Wednesday when it closes at 2:30 p.m. for

staff training.

Plano Campus - Middle School (5-8)

Students in grades 5-8 will utilize the Middle School Library for their

book needs and ability to do research. Students may check out up to

(5) books at a time

Plano Campus - Upper School (9-12)

Students in Grades 9-12 will utilize the Upper School Library for

personal book selection, research needs, makerspace use, and as

a place to study or collaborate with classmates. The Library is open

from 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. each day with the exception of Wednesday

when it will close at 2:30 p.m. for staff training. We have an open

door policy with every student having the availability of checking out

as many books as needed with the approval of staff. A set time limit

is established with the availability of renewal if extension is needed.

Charges are assessed for damaged or lost books which must be paid

through the Business Ofce in order for the nal report card to be

released.

Challenged Materials Policy

Despite the great care taken in the selection process, there may be

occasional objections raised to some of the materials included in the

Library. Anyone hearing any concerns should refer that person to

the campus Librarian and should be handled in a Scriptural manner,

following the principles in Matthew 18:15-17. Anyone hearing any

concerns should refer that person to the Librarian. Any parent,

faculty or staff member may challenge materials he or she deems

objectionable by following the procedures outlined herein.

PCA supports the rights of all parents to monitor their child’s reading

and instructional materials. However, those rights extend only to their

own children. Individuals are not free to dene what is appropriate

for all students or teachers to read, view or hear. The school retains

the right for students to have availability to materials which have

gone through the selection policy and chosen by the professionals as

acceptable use.

If after discussion a concern still exists, the Librarian will connect

the concerned party with the Worldview Director and provide a

Request for Reconsideration of Library materials form. Note: Prior

to submission of this form, the text in question must be read in its

entirety by the person submitting the request.

When materials are challenged, the following procedure is to be

followed:

1. Bring concern to the campus Librarian.

2. If after discussion a concern still exists, the Librarian will connect

the concerned party with the Worldview Director and provide a

Request for Reconsideration of Library materials form. Note: Prior

to submission of this form, the text in question must be read in its

entirety by the person submitting the request.

3. The form is then referred to the Literature Review Committee.

4. The Literature Review Committee then reviews the challenged

materials based on the objections set forth in the Request for

Reconsideration form. Based upon that review, the Literature

Review Committee makes a decision whether to keep or remove

the material from the curriculum collection.

5. The Literature Review Committee then sends the written notice to

the concerned party regarding their decision.

6. All challenged materials shall remain in circulation during the

challenge process period.

7. All nal decisions would be approved by divisional administration.

Lunch

SAGE Dining is the PCA premier school dining provider. SAGE uses

organic and locally sourced produce whenever possible to support

sustainable practices and feels strongly about fostering community at

PCA through healthy dining.

PCA and SAGE Dining works to craft a comprehensive program

with student safety and satisfaction in mind. Daily offerings satisfy

most dietary needs, including nut-free and gluten-free, and students

have the opportunity to create a meal tailored to them. There are

procedures in place to alert parents and students of potential

allergens and an executive chef will assist in the preparation of food,

assuring recipes are followed according to directions with no added

ingredients.

Throughout the school year, SAGE Dining coordinates “Educational

Seasonings” where the menu will highlight food from a particular

culture and historical context. Educational Seasonings provides

students with the opportunity to learn about ingredients, cuisines and

cooking methods with the philosophy that learning isn’t just limited to

the classroom. Students will have the opportunity to taste food and

avors from around the world.

GENERAL INFORMATION

30 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Participation in the Dining Program is campus inclusive, and enrollment

in the program is handled at time of re-enrollment or enrollment.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Prestonwood Christian Academy admits students of any race, color,

national or ethnic origin t07o 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, national or

ethnic origin in administration of its education, employment, admissions

policies, tuition assistance, athletic and other school-administered

programs.

Ofce Procedures

Lost and Found

All personal articles, outer garments, class materials, binders,

notebooks, lunch boxes, musical instruments, etc. should be labeled

with the student’s name. Lost and found items are kept in an area in

the Library Resource Center at the Lower School and at the Upper

School reception desk. At the end of each quarter, all items remaining

are donated to the City Missions ministry of Prestonwood Baptist

Church.

Parental Involvement

Parental involvement at PCA is welcomed and encouraged. Parents

are provided opportunities throughout the academic year to become

involved within the classroom and in support activities.

Prestonwood Christian Academy has several Special Interest Groups

parents can join to provide service and support to PCA. These Special

Interest Groups include:

• Fine Arts Council

• Friends of the Library

• Learning Lab Partners

• Lions Den (Athletic Booster)

• Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) Prayer Ministry

• Grandparents’ Association

• For additional volunteer opportunities, check with divisional areas

or the Events Coordinator.

Parents have been given the responsibility by God for the education

and upbringing of their children. It is the desire of our teachers to work

together with parents in this endeavor. The best education can only

be achieved when parents and teachers work together to support and

encourage students.

Security

Closed Campus

Prestonwood Christian Academy maintains a closed campus. All

visitors must enter the building at the main entrance. All other doors

leading into the buildings must remain locked during the school day to

provide maximum security for all students. Non- PCA guests are not

allowed in the classroom or in the lunch room (including Main Street

Café) without prior approval from administration.

PCA believes that the safety and security of students and staff is a

major priority. Safe schools require a collaborative effort of the Board,

administrators, teachers, students, parents and community. A variety of

prevention and intervention strategies, programs, and activities must

be in place to ensure students’ and staffs’ welfare.

Physical aggression, hostile behavior, intimidating acts of harassment,

extortion, violent behavior, or possession of weapons shall not be

tolerated. Anyone who demonstrates such behavior shall be held

accountable for his or her actions in accordance with the Parent/

Student Handbook, the Student Code of Conduct, and civil and

criminal law.

The Administration shall develop detailed procedures to be followed to

implement school safety and security measures. Those measures shall

include routine campus security procedures as well as directives to

administrators to follow when responding to threats of serious harm.

The Administration shall develop detailed procedures to be followed to

implement school safety and security measures. Those measures shall

include routine campus security procedures as well as directives to

administrators to follow when responding to threats of serious harm.

The routine campus security measures shall include, without limitation:

1. Controlled access to campuses

2. Additional staff training

3. Increased communication to students, parents and to the

community

4. Increased student and community awareness

5. Physical inspections and monitoring using various means

including canine security units

Drugs/Substance Abuse/Alcohol/Tobacco

The possession, use, distribution of illegal drugs, controlled substances

and/or misuse of over-the-counter drugs, alcohol and tobacco products

is prohibited. Students connected to, in the presence of or associated

with any drug-related persons or events may be required to submit

to drug testing and subject to expulsion. Violation of this rule is dealt

with whether on or off campus. PCA is considered a drug, alcohol and

tobacco free zone and has a zero tolerance policy as it relates to

the possession, use, and/or distribution of illegal drugs, alcohol

and controlled substance on its campus.

GENERAL INFORMATION

31 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Search of Students

Students, their lockers, and their motor vehicles shall be subject

to searches by school ofcials including, but not limited to,

students’ outer clothing, pockets, locker or belongings.

Students also understand and agree that PCA shall have the

right to monitor or examine any electronic device at the school

or any PCA activity. Additionally, PCA may monitor or examine

any postings on the Internet or other electronic medium, which

includes but is not limited to, text messages and postings on

personal websites, social networking sites, or other private or

public domains. Such monitoring includes, but is not limited to,

all verbiage, pictures, depictions, graphics and videos.

Students understand and agree that they are responsible for and

may be subject to disciplinary action for inappropriate material

sent, posted, made available, shown to others or possessed by

the student themselves.

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement

The school shall retain the right to utilize third party resources,

including, but not limited to, security guards or canine units to

further establish a secure zone on the PCA campus.

Vehicle Use on Campus

Students and parents are required to follow all trafc signs while

on the Prestonwood campus. Speed limit on campus is listed

as 15 mph. Any student or parent that does not follow these

trafc regulations may have their privileges to drive on campus

revoked. All carpool lines are considered a cell phone-free zone.

Cars belonging to students and of grades 7-12 staff must be

registered through the vehicle registration form found at the

receptionist desk of the Upper School building.

Visitor Check-In

All visitors to the school campus must check in at the Lower

School or Upper School reception areas. Upon checking in,

each visitor will receive a visitor badge to be worn at all times.

Weapons

The possession, use, distribution or attempted distribution (by

sale, gift or otherwise) of any type of operable or inoperable

weapon such as rearms, knives, switchblades, mace, tear gas,

bullets, reworks, and other explosives are expressly forbidden.

Whether designed as a weapon or not, an object is considered

a weapon if it is used as a weapon. Use of a toy designed to

look like a weapon is prohibited on campus. Pending divisional

administrative approval, exceptions for this may be granted for

school projects.

Sexual Harassment

Prestonwood Christian Academy is committed to providing an

environment free from any form of sexual harassment. Sexual

harassment is a violation of both the law and PCA’s policy and

will not be tolerated. Males and females can both be victims and

perpetrators of sexual harassment. It is an issue that may affect

any member of the PCA community and is dealt with promptly

by the administration. Report any harassment immediately to a

teacher, principal or the administrative ofces.

PCA School-Wide Technology

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

Prestonwood Christian Academy (PCA) has a commitment to

the integration of technology into the academic programs of

the school. The PCA network and computer equipment are

available for students, faculty and staff to use for research, study

and other educational purposes. The goal in providing access

to these technological resources is to promote educational

excellence and innovation and to facilitate communication and

creativity in the expression of ideas and information.

Access to PCA technological resources and the Internet is a

privilege that is tied to responsibilities. Students must use these

resources in a legal, ethical, moral and responsible manner

in accordance with the school’s stated mission. The following

guidelines are intended to help individual technology users

understand appropriate use and apply to any device brought

to or used at school or provided by the school. The school may

restrict, suspend, or terminate any user’s access to the school’s

technology systems and network for inappropriate use of tech-

nology.

School-Owned Individual Devices

• All students in grades K-12 are assigned a computing

device for use during the school day. Students in Pre-

Kindergarten have access to shared devices.

• A school-owned device assigned to a student remains

the property of PCA and is managed by PCA Technical

Services. The device is labeled with a property identication

tag that must not be removed for any reason. Upon gradu-

ation or withdrawal from PCA, each student’s assigned

device must be returned to PCA Technical Services in

working order, with all assigned accessories such as power

cords, cases, etc.

• Devices assigned to Lower School students remain at

school each day. Devices will only be sent home with the

students in situations that require remote learning or with

the approval of the division principal and Chief Academic

Ofcer.

• Middle and Upper School students may take their assigned

device home at the end of the school day and are responsi-

ble for bringing it back to school with a fully charged battery.

• The assigned device needs periodic maintenance by PCA

Technology Support. Students may not attempt to repair

a school-owned device or allow anyone other than PCA

Technology Support to repair the device.

GENERAL INFORMATION

32 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• PCA retains ownership of software licenses and any content

installed by the school on a school-owned device. Students

may not duplicate or transfer school-owned software to other

devices.

• If software/hardware problems arise, the assigned device may

need to be restored to its original settings or be replaced. In

this event, the school cannot be responsible for recovering a

student’s personal les including any software the student may

have installed.

• Each teacher has the right to limit classroom use of any type

of device, whether personally-owned or school-owned.

Device Cases

Cases are essential to prevent scratched, dented and cracked

devices. If a student’s school-issued case breaks, the student must

bring the broken case to the PCA Helpdesk for a replacement.

Personally-Owned Devices

• Lower and Middle School students are not allowed to use

personally-owned devices during the school day.

• Upper School students are allowed to bring their own device.

The device must be connected to PCA Guest WIFI.

• The school monitors computer activities that take place on

campus during the school day including logging website

access, social media access, bandwidth and network use.

• Any computing device used at school, even if privately owned,

is subject to all policies and consequences of the AUP includ-

ing the right to view the content of the device at any time.

• A computing device may be removed from a student’s pos-

session if there is an infraction to the AUP that deserves that

consequence. In this case, it will be necessary for a parent or

guardian to reclaim the device from school administration.

• Any computing device used at school, even if privately owned,

is subject to all policies and consequences of the AUP includ-

ing the right to view the content of the device at any time.

• A computing device may be removed from a student’s pos-

session if there is an infraction to the AUP that deserves that

consequence. In this case, it will be necessary for a parent or

guardian to reclaim the device from school administration.

Protocol for Damaged or Missing Devices

• Students are responsible for all maintenance on personal

laptops and other personally-owned devices.

• It is the responsibility of each owner to be sure that all

personally-owned equipment is insured.

• Students must notify the school immediately if a device is

discovered missing while on school grounds. If a device is

reported stolen and cannot be located within a reasonable

period of time, the school may require a police report to be

led.

School-Owned Shared Devices, Network and

Printers

• Students have access to shared computing devices in

designated locations, including Pre-Kindergarten through

6th grade classrooms and some Library Resource Centers

including Pre-kindergarten through 6th grade classrooms and

some Library Resource Centers.

• Personally-owned laptops and unapproved wireless routers

may not be connected to the Prestonwood Ethernet (wired)

network. Only school-owned devices may be connected to

Prestonwood’s wired network.

• Students are prohibited from accessing faculty, administration

and staff computers as well as restricted le servers for

any reason without explicit permission from the user or

administrator of that computer. Student are prohibited from

utilizing the command prompt interface or altering PCA

Administration/Installation accounts.

• Students are prohibited from utilizing the command prompt

interface or altering PCA Administration/Installation accounts.

In addition to this, students are prohibited from using any

method to obtain control of another person’s computer through

the use of their own computer.

• Students are not to use another person’s username or

password to gain access to accounts owned by another

individual.

• Users are responsible for their individual accounts and

should take all reasonable precautions to prevent others

from using their account. Students should not provide

their password(s) to any other person. If there is ever any

concern about a password being compromised, the student

should change their password used to access their laptop and

PCA managed systems.

• No food or beverages should be in the vicinity of PCA-owned

computing devices, including laptop and desktop computers.

• Families may be responsible for reimbursing the school for

any misuse that leads to damage subject to the Accidental

Damage, Loss and Theft Policy.

Internet

• Students have ltered Internet access through all school-

owned devices, whether on campus or off campus.

• Students’ use of the Internet at school must be in support of

education and research and be consistent with the educational

objectives of PCA, whether that use is on a PCA computer or

a student-owned device. Misuse of the Internet is prohibited,

including production or use of threatening or obscene material,

and infringement of copyrighted material or material protected

by trade secrets.

• PCA reserves the right to monitor the Internet usage of all

students through specialized software reporting as well as

any other means available to teachers and administration.

This includes school owned computers as well as any other

computers or devices that access the Internet through PCA’s

GENERAL INFORMATION

33 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• Students may not use any social networking, instant

messaging, blogging, chatting, photo-sharing or other

collaboration method to communicate with others during

the school day unless a teacher or administrator expressly

authorizes this use for educational purposes.

• If a student inadvertently accesses a website that contains

obscene, pornographic or otherwise offensive material, the

student must notify the teacher or a campus administrator as

quickly as possible so that such sites can be blocked from

further access.

• The Internet is a rich and valuable source of information

for education. Inappropriate materials are available on the

Internet, but are strictly prohibited. These materials include

items of a sexual or pornographic nature, extremist or

militant materials, gambling, depictions of violence, images

that are intended to be abusive or harassing, etc. Students

must not access, display or store this type of material.

• These policies and procedures apply to all computing

devices used at PCA, including devices owned by the school

as well as personal devices owned by the student. Teachers

may set additional requirements for computer use in their

classroom.

Device Security

• If a student brings a computing device to school and then

loans it to another student who uses it inappropriately, the

student owner may also bear some responsibility for the

inappropriate use.

• Students are responsible for all data on their device as well

as taking care of their computing device and accessories

such as the case, battery and charger.

• Student computing devices must not be left unattended at

any time. Computing devices that are not being monitored by

the student should be secured with the device passcode.

• Students are entirely responsible for saving their data to the

cloud. Lost or damaged data is not the responsibility of the

school. Device malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse

for not submitting work.

• If students are participating in an afternoon activity, they

must make prior arrangements to store their devices in a

secure place.

Software, Communications and Multimedia

• Students may not alter or remove the software or “apps”

installed by PCA on any school-owned device and may only

install apps from the PCA Self-Service Store.

• No computer programs (executables), pornography or

copyrighted material may be distributed at any time. This rule

prohibits sending les through email as well as setting up

“servers” on a student’s device or by any other physical or

electronic means.

• Unauthorized duplication of data or software is prohibited.

• Students are not to use electronic devices to send

text messages, emails or other forms of electronic

communication during class periods without teacher

permission.

• The volume setting on computing devices should be muted

when using the device in a setting that would be distracting

to others unless required for the activity being conducted.

• No audio or video recording is permitted in bathrooms or

locker rooms under any circumstances.

• Electronically posting data (including but not limited to

audio recordings, video recording, images, and personal

information) about others or oneself when it is not related to

a class project and / or without the permission of all parties

is prohibited.

• Sharing of music over the school network is strictly

prohibited and is subject to appropriate consequences.

• Downloading music, videos or software from the Internet at

PCA is prohibited unless specically approved by a faculty or

staff member.

• Using the district electronic communication systems for

illegal purposes including, but not limited to, cyberbullying,

gambling, pornography, and computer hacking is strickly

prohibited.

• Downloading of games and VPNs are prohibited. Playing

games during class is prohibited.

• Violent games and computer images containing violence or

pornographic material are not allowed on school grounds

in any format. Any le found on a student’s device that is

considered violent, obscene, vulgar or pornographic will

result in immediate disciplinary action.

• Students are prohibited from disabling or attempting

to disable any Internet ltering device, encrypting

communications to avoid security review, or intentionally

introducing a virus to the computer system.

• Downloading or using copyrighted information without

permission from the copyright holder is a possible copyright

infringement. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken

if it is discovered that a student has infringed a copyright

holder’s rights and/or plagiarized material.

• PCA has installed anti-virus software on all school-owned

devices. This software is congured to automatically scan

removable devices for malware. Students must not alter or

disable this automatic scanning.

GENERAL INFORMATION

34 | GENERAL INFORMATION

• Student email accounts are provided for educational

purposes only. The school issued email address is to be

used only for academic purposes.

• Be polite. Do not become abusive in messages to others.

Email accounts may not be used to harass others or send

inappropriate or offensive messages.

• Email etiquette should be observed. In general, only

messages that one would say verbally to the recipient in

person should be written.

• Students who receive harassing or threatening messages

must notify a faculty member as soon as possible.

• Grade-level and school-wide mailing lists are for school

purposes only. Emails to the entire school are permitted

only with permission from the Principal.

• The use of email during class, without teacher approval, is

strictly prohibited.

• Do not send out bulk emails. This includes chain letters,

advertisements, or any other message that includes many

different recipients without their consent.

• Students must not disclose personally-identifying

information, such as home address or phone number, or

those of other students or faculty.

• Forgery or attempted forgery of email messages or other

electronic documents is prohibited.

• Attempts to read, delete, copy or modify the electronic mail

or other electronic documents of other users or deliberate

interference with the ability of other users to send/receive

email is prohibited.

• Any malicious attempt to harm, alter or destroy school

technology equipment or materials, the data of another

user, or any of the institutions, or other networks that are

connected to the Internet is prohibited.

• Email and any other use of the electronic communication

systems by students shall not be considered condential

and may be monitored at any time by designated staff to

ensure appropriate use.

• School email addresses are not to be given to ANY

website, company, or other third party without the explicit

permission of PCA administration.

Video Conferencing

• Mute your microphone when you are not speaking.

• Mute your video if you are eating, talking with someone

else in the room, or anything else that might be distracting

to others.

• Wear appropriate clothing when joining the conference.

• Close unneeded applications on your computer to keep the

video optimally functioning.

• Using video conferencing tools to host a conference that is not

for academic purposes and approved by the teacher is strictly

prohibited.

File Sharing

• File sharing is the public or private sharing of computer data or

space. Any program that creates a point–to–point connection

between two or more computing devices for the purpose of

sharing data is considered le sharing.

• File sharing is only appropriate when approved by the teacher

and for educational purposes.

Special Note: Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is dened as the use of an Internet-connected device

for the purpose of bullying, harassing, or intimidating another student.

Cyberbullying is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Sending abusive text messages to cell phones, computers, or

Internet-connected game consoles.

• Posting abusive comments on someone’s blog or social

networking site.

• Creating a social networking site or web page that masquerades

as the victim’s personal site and using it to embarrass him or her.

• Making it appear that the victim is posting malicious comments

about friends to isolate him or her from friends.

• Posting the victim’s personally identiable information on a site to

put them at greater risk of contact by predators.

• Sending abusive comments while playing interactive games.

• Recording and distributing media with the intent to manipulate or

embarrass others.

Consequences for Violation of the Acceptable

Use Policy

• Appropriate disciplinary or legal action in accordance with the

Student Code of Conduct and applicable laws including monetary

damages.

• Loss or restriction of technology privileges.

• Parental notication.

• Revocation of the PCA electronic communications system

account(s).

• Termination of System User Account: PCA may deny, revoke,

or suspend specic user’s access to the district’s system with

or without cause or notice for lack of use, violation of policy or

regulations regarding acceptable network use, or as a result of

disciplinary actions against the user.

• Although not all-inclusive, violation of the above policy may result

in a detention, suspension or immediate separation from the

school. In all cases, the administrator reserves the right to make

the nal decision for any disciplinary action.

• Students are subject to a random check of the history and activity

on school-owned devices that they have used.

Students are to report any known violations of this AUP to

appropriate administrative staff members.

GENERAL INFORMATION

35 | GENERAL INFORMATION

Student Withdrawals

To withdraw a student, notify the admissions director or the

administrative ofces in your child’s division and complete a

Student Withdrawal Form. All textbooks and school-purchased

materials must be turned in to the classroom teacher. Students

in Grades 5 through 12 return technology and peripheral

devices to the Technology Ofce.

Student records including grades, testing reuslts and transcripts

for any student withdrawing enrollment will be released when all

relevant charges to the account have been paid in full.

EPA Inspection

In compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA),

in the spring of 2006 we performed inspections and developed

management plans for Prestonwood Christian Academy campus

concerning asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM).

The AHERA management le is on le in the school

administrative ofce.

No ACBM has been identied during this process. We will

continue to monitor and update the management plan as

required by applicable regulatory requirements.

Anyone is welcome to view these documents that are present

in the management ofce anytime during normal school hours.

The Asbestos Program Manager, Ron Johnson, is available

to answer any questions you may have about asbestos at

Prestonwood Christian Academy at 972-820-5120.

Mediation and Arbitration

PCA believes that the Bible commands us to make every effort

to live at peace and to resolve disputes with each other in

private and within the Christian community in conformity with

the biblical injunctions of 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, Matthew 5:23-24

and Matthew 18:15-20. In response to this belief, disputes and

disagreements between PCA and its families should be handled

directly and quickly to restore unity to the relationship.

For those times when the resolution of issues is not clear,

disputes are handled through biblically-based mediation.

As supported by the enrollment contract between PCA and

its families, if resolution of the dispute and reconciliation

does not result from mediation, families can then submit the

dispute to a single independent and objective arbitrator for

binding arbitration. If PCA and a family are unable to reach

an agreement as to the selection of the arbitrator, the Institute

for Christian Conciliation division of Peacekeeper Ministries

of Billings, Montana, shall be asked to select a qualied

person who will serve in that capacity. The mediation and

arbitration process shall be conducted in accordance with the

“Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation” contained in

the Peacemakers Ministries booklet, “Guidelines for Christian

Conciliation.”

Further information for this process is contained in the

enrollment contracts for students, which indicates this is the sole

remedy for any controversy or claim arising from the relationship

between PCA, students, families and staff.

Volunteers

We welcome parent volunteers to assist in various classroom/school

activities. Any parent wishing to volunteer must have an acceptable

background check on le and be cleared by administration.

Parents/Guardians Statement of

Support

a. I/We have received and read the “Statements of Doctrinal Beliefs”

of the School and are willing to have the Student educated in

accordance with them.

b. I/We will regularly and earnestly pray for Prestonwood Christian

Academy.

c. I/We will worship the Lord regularly 7at a Bible-believing church.

d. I/We will fully cooperate in the educational activities of

Prestonwood Christian Academy by doing my/our best to make

Christian education effective in the life of the Student.

e. I/We will require the Student to support the spiritual activities of

the School (chapel, Bible classes, scripture memory, etc.).

f. I/We agree to provide a home environment that does not conict

with the Biblical understanding of sexuality (As dened in the

School’s ‘Sexual Ethics Policy’). I/We support the principle and

practice of purity in singleness and delity in marriage, which

is the union of one man and one woman (further dened in the

School’s ‘Sexual Ethics Policy’). Specically our home will afrm

the Biblical teaching that all sexual conduct outside the sanctity

of marriage, including both hetero and homosexuality, is a sin, a

turning away from God’s ideal as outlined in Scripture.

g. I/We will pay all of our nancial obligations to Prestonwood

Christian Academy on or before the date due. If I/we are ever

unable to do so, I/we will notify the School’s Business Ofce,

giving a reasonable explanation for the delay and stating when

payment will be made.

h. I/We understand that the School has full discretion in the testing

requirements and discipline of the Student in accordance with the

“discipline policy” as published.

i. I/We understand that the School reserves the right to place

the Student at the appropriate grade level and designate the

appropriate teacher(s).

j. I/We understand that the School reserves the right to dismiss the

Student when either the parents/guardians or the Student does

not cooperate with (or counter witnesses against) the policies of

the School.

k. I/We will volunteer for duties and responsibilities for Prestonwood

Christian Academy as opportunities arise and God provides the

time and strength.

l. I/We will be faithful to attend all parent functions at Prestonwood

Christian Academy as best we can.

m. If I/we become dissatised with Prestonwood Christian Academy

in any way, I/we will strive to resolve the matter with the person(s)

involved as privately and lovingly as possible, rather than

spreading criticism and negativism. (Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23-24)

GENERAL INFORMATION

36 | GENERAL INFORMATION

n. I/We will seek to support and advance Prestonwood

Christian Academy in every area possible – spiritually,

academically, physically, and nancially.

o. I/We understand that it is the responsibility of the student

and parents/guardians to ensure the student is college

and NCAA eligible. I/We release the School from any

responsibility and/or liability related to student college and

NCAA eligibility.

p. I/We understand that virtual science courses do not include

teacher-supervised, hands-on laboratory components which

some universities and colleges require, including University

of California institutions.

The School covenants to provide the best it can for the Student in

the way of facilities, curriculum, faculty, athletics, social functions,

and instruction. The School further pledges to do all possible to

support your home in growing every student in the nurture and

admonition of the Lord. As the legal parents or guardians of

the Student, I/we covenant to support the School in its efforts at

Christian education. I/We agree that it is my/our responsibility to

strive diligently toward the observance of the “Parents/Guardians

Statement of Support” as God enables me/us by the power of

the Holy Spirit. If for some reason I/we become dissatised, I/we

promise to handle the matter as privately and lovingly as possible.

If support or resolution cannot be reached, I/we recognize it is

my/our responsibility to leave the School and seek a school in

alignment with our personal convictions. Together, as a school

and as parents/guardians, I/we pledge to submit our lives to one

another and to the nal authority of the Word of God.

PCA Statement of Support for

Biblical Morality

Prestonwood Christian Academy’s biblical role is to work in

conjunction with the home to mold students to be Christlike. Of

necessity, this involves the school’s understanding and belief of

what qualities or characteristics exemplify a Christlike life. The

school reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse

admission of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a

student if the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home or

the activities of the student are counter to or are in opposition to

the

biblical lifestyle the school teaches.This includes, but is not

necessarily limited to, participating in, supporting, or condoning

sexual immorality,

homosexual activity, or bisexual activity,

transgender and/or non-binary identication and activism;

promoting such practices; being unable to support the moral

principles of the school (See Lev 20:13, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 1

Timothy 1:10 and Rom 1:27) or illegal use of drugs or alcohol,

or violation of the law. Lifestyle choices not in agreement

with scriptural guidelines or Prestonwood Christian Academy

Missional beliefs are subject to administrative intervention and/or

disciplinary consequences up to and including dismissal from the

school or non-renewal for future academic years.

Acceptable sexual behavior is exclusively reserved to occur within the connes of

a monogamous marriage union of a consenting man and woman (Matthew 5:28, 1

Corinthians 7:2-1, Hebrews 13:4). Any sexual behavior outside of this relationship

is likewise outside of God’s design for human sexuality as prescribed by the word

of God (Ephesians 5:3, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).

We believe the Bible sets forth a clear precedent and upholds a description of

God’s denition of marriage. At the outset of mankind’s existence, God established

the institution of marriage as the union of one man and one woman (Genesis 1:27,

Genesis 2:18-23). This model for marriage is exclusively maintained and endorsed

throughout the biblical record (Matthew 19:4, Ephesians 5:22-28).

We believe God created human beings as biologically male or female, and this

gender distinction continues through the natural process of biological reproduc-

tion. (Genesis 1:27, Genesis 5:1-3) God’s design for these two distinct genders

was to reproduce and ll the earth. (Genesis 1:28, Genesis 4:1) Jesus afrms this

gender distinction in the New Testament. (Matthew 19:4, Mark 10:6)

37 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

North Campus

Lower School

Pre-K3—Grade 4

Parent/Student Handbook

2023-24

38 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Lower School (Pre-K—4) Administration

Katie Chretien, Ed.D. Principal

Becky Knight Assistant Principal

Jane Agee Administrative Assistant

Daphne Key Receptionist

Lucia Rodriguez Extended Day Coordinator

Sandy Matthews Nurse

Academics Class Placement

It is our goal to balance each class with equal boy/girl ratios, but it

is not always possible. Parental requests for specic teachers is not

honored. Placement of students is an administrative and teacher

decision.

Grading Scale

The grading scales used by the Lower School are as follows:

Pre-K 3, 4, 5 and Kindergarten will receive a detailed

developmental checklist indicating progress/mastery in academic,

behavioral, social, and physical milestones.

Grades 1-2

Letter Grades: Letter Grades: Conduct

Scale

A, B, C G-Good or N-Needs

Improvement

Reading Science

Writing/Grammar Social Studies

Spelling Bible

Math Penmanship

Grades 3-4

A+ 98-100 B+ 87-89 C+ 77-79 F 0-69

A 93-97 B 83-86 C 73-76

A- 90-92 B- 80-82 C- 70-72

Homework

The primary purpose for homework is to develop responsibility

and accountability. It is assumed that homework is a regular part

of school life, with increasing time and application required as a

student progresses through each grade. In general, homework

is for skill practice, enrichment, or more in-depth attention to a

given unit of study. We do not give homework on Wednesday

nights. Some assignments are given days or weeks in advance

and students may choose to use weekend time to work on them.

Homework will take approximately 10 minutes per grade level

(i.e. rst grade = 10 minutes, second grade = 20 minutes, etc.)

not including Bible memory, test preparation, projects and reading

minutes. Please understand each child’s ability is different.

Therefore, whether a student spends less or more time depends

on the organization, use of time, homework environment, and other

factors. For good communication and to avoid late homework, we

ask that you review your child’s daily assignments. If at any time

there is a question or concern regarding an assignment, please

contact your child’s teacher.

Missed/Late Work Policy

The policy listed below pertains to students in grades 3-4 only:

1. A student will have one day for each day he/she is absent

to make up any work or tests missed in class, provided the

absence is excused.

2. Parents of students with a pattern of missed assignments will

be notied and a conference may be called.

Physical Education Participation

When any student has a physical challenge that limits activity or

prohibits a particular activity, the school requires a note from the

family medical doctor indicating the reason for the limitation and the

period of time for which the limitation is valid. Likewise, if a student

needs to be excused from participation in P.E. due to an illness, a

note is required from a doctor or parent.

Elementary Sports Program

Working hand-in-hand with the Prestonwood Sports Organization,

located at the Plano Campus, and other local leagues, students

have opportunities to be involved in youth sports. Team sports,

individual activities, summer camps, off-season training and

personal coaching clinics are available. One of our goals is

to develop our students for Middle/Upper School athletics.

Competition and recognition coupled with character developing

coaching complements our school mission, and is a great

opportunity to become a part of the school community.

Academic Probation

Students may be placed on academic probation at the discretion of

the administration.

Promotion to Next Grade

If a student is consistently struggling academically or socially,

a parent conference is scheduled to discuss the possibility of

retention for the following year. Students may not be promoted to

the next grade if they have a failing yearly average in math, reading

or both (failure is considered anything below a 70).

Double Promotions

PCA typically does not practice promoting current or newly enrolled

students into a grade beyond their age group. In assisting parents,

our focus remains on what would be best for the children in light of

what has been widely observed when children are promoted into

a grade beyond their age mates. Generally the situation results

in students experiencing difculty in their social and/or academic

development.

39 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Report Cards and myPCA (Grades 1-4)

Parents and students have the ability to check and monitor progress

in each of the students academic classes through myPCA. This

information is available on the student’s progress tab. Report Cards

will also be available at the end of each quarter on the progress

tab. Parents and students are assigned an individual username and

password to access myPCA. For questions regarding your myPCA

account, contact [email protected].

Student Assignment Notebook

Each teacher will explain the classroom schedule at the beginning of

the school year. Homework assignments are recorded by students

in their student assignment book in grades 2-4. In addition, students

in grades 3-4 will keep a study skills notebook to aid in organization.

Teachers in First Grade have individual methods for communicating

assignments to the students and parents. Parents are encouraged to

review assignments daily and to check with the teacher if there are

questions about the classroom schedule. It is the parents’ responsibility

to carefully review what the student is actually accomplishing in the

homework process and to sign the work or assignment notebook.

Parents are encouraged to review assignments daily and to check

with the teacher if there are questions about the classroom schedule.

It is the parent’s responsibility to carefully review what the student is

actually accomplishing in the homework process.

Testing of Students

All students entering grades PreK—4 are tested prior to admission.

Students who are re-enrolling will not normally be expected to take

tests beyond the standard achievement and school ability tests;

however, if school personnel need additional test data to make a re-

enrollment decision, parents are so advised.

Textbooks

PCA assigns textbooks for a student to use throughout the year.

1. No writing or marking is to be done in any school-assigned

textbook. Additional copies may be purchased for home use, if

necessary, through the textbook publisher. Additional information is

available on the PCA website.

2. Students pay for damages done to a textbook because of abuse

or misuse.

3. Students pay for lost textbooks.

4. Report cards are held until such nes are paid or until your PCA

account is billed.

Discipline

We believe it is God-ordained that parents bear the primary

responsibility for teaching their children biblical standards for behavior

and attitudes. Prestonwood Christian Academy provides an atmosphere

of order that is essential in allowing a student to lead a Spirit-controlled,

Christ-like life. It is the responsibility of the teacher to dene behavioral

boundaries consistent with biblical principles and developmental

capability. Teachers establish classroom procedures and discuss

school-wide rules with students at the beginning of the school year.

A student who disobeys school or class rules or the teacher’s verbal

instructions may lose privileges or be separated from the class. When

misbehavior is habitually repeated or there is a severe infraction of

school policy, the student is sent to the appropriate administrator.

STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS AGREE AND ACKNOWLEDGE

THAT PCA’S DECISIONS REGARDING DISCIPLINARY ACTION

SHALL BE FINAL. Students violating the student Code of Conduct

outside of the school campus or in school activities are subject to

disciplinary action.

Just as the family has rules to help children learn to get along with

parents, brothers, sisters and others, our school has expectations for

orderly daily operation in a setting with many students and activities.

The following are rules by which PCA students agree to abide:

Minor Infractions

The following is a non-comprehensive list of minor infractions:

1. Chewing gum while on school premises.

2. Electronic devices, toys, games (including cell phones/smart

watches and cameras), posters and playing/trading cards are

subject to conscation by school personnel. No electronic devices

that connect to the internet or take pictures are allowed during

Extended Day. Cell phones and smart watches must also be

turned off and put away in backpacks and are only allowed to be

used if given direct permission from a school ofcial. Cell phones/

smart watches and other electronic devices are subject to search

and seizure provisions to examine postings, messages, pictures,

graphics, videos and depictions and appropriate disciplinary

actions may result from inappropriate material or use. Cell phones

will not be used for instruction during the school day.

3. Failure to comply with the PCA dress code.

4. Failure to obey playground rules given by teachers.

5. Failure to follow the instructions of school adults and students who

serve as carpool safety supervisors.

6. Use of school equipment without a teacher’s permission.

7. Failure to act in a quiet and orderly fashion while in hallways,

restrooms and during carpool.

8. Failure to refrain from behavior that inhibits learning in classroom

situations.

40 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Major Infractions

The following is a non-comprehensive list of major infractions that

may result in suspension or immediate separation from the school:

1. Use of Abusive or Profane Language and Disrespect: Using

abusive or profane language and showing disrespect or

insolence to teachers and classmates will not be tolerated and

will result in disciplinary action.

2. Disruptive/Disrespectful Behavior: Repeated classroom

disruptions that prohibit learning in all classroom situations will

not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. Disrespectful

behavior towards authority will not be tolerated.

3. Bullying: Repeated use of ridicule, threats, intimidation or causing

bodily harm to any person will result in certain disciplinary action.

See also: Anti-Harassment Policy in General Section.

4. Cheating: Students are responsible for preventing the giving

or receiving of assistance (written, oral or otherwise) on tests,

examinations, nal evaluation or class assignments that are to

be graded as the work of a single individual. This also includes

lying, plagiarism or forgery.

5. Drug Use/Substance Abuse: The possession, use, distribution of

illegal drugs, controlled substances, alcohol, tobacco product(s)

electronic cigarettes, vaping and/or misuse of over-the-counter

or prescription drugs is prohibited. Students connected to, in

the presence of, or associated with any drug-related persons

or events may be required to submit to drug testing and subject

to expulsion. Violation of this rule is dealt with whether on or

off campus. PCA is considered a drug/alcohol-free zone and

therefore practices a zero tolerance policy as it relates to the

possession, use and/or distribution of illegal drugs or a controlled

substance on its campus.

6. Electronic Device or Medium: A repeated misuse, as dened by

the Acceptable Use Policy, of an electronic device or medium

or a signicant abuse of such privilege may result in disciplinary

action beyond conscation of a device. Additionally, students

must understand that inappropriate material or depictions

sent, posted, shared or possessed on any electronic device

including cell phones and the Internet are subject to appropriate

disciplinary action at the discretion of PCA administration.

7. Fighting: Students are responsible for settling confrontations in a

peaceful manner and without the use of violence. Fighting or play

ghting will not be tolerated on or near school grounds or at any

school-sponsored activity. Students are reminded that ghting

may result in suspension, followed by a parent conference in

order to return to school following a rst offense.

8. Violation of Fire Safety Regulations: Violations of re regulations,

including tampering with re alarms, using matches, lighters or

recrackers, are considered serious offenses.

9. Gambling: Card playing for the purpose of gambling, or any other

form of gambling, is forbidden.

10. Immorality: Students are expected to maintain moral purity as is

outlined in God’s Word.

11. Stealing: Students are expected to refrain taking items that do

not belong to them..

12. Truancy: Missing school or any part of a school day without

parent or teacher permission is truancy. The penalty for truancy

is a zero for all work missed, plus possible suspension or

expulsion from the school. Students must obtain permission

before leaving a classroom.

13. Vandalism: Destruction or defacing of property belonging to

the school, PBC or others, including textbooks, will result in

disciplinary action as well as assessing compensatory damages.

14. Possession of Weapons: The possession, use, threat of use,

distribution or attempted distribution (by sale, gift or otherwise)

of any type of operable or inoperable weapon such as rearms,

knives, switchblades, mace, tear gas, bullets, reworks and

other explosives is expressly forbidden. Whether designed as a

weapon or not, an object is considered a weapon if it is used as a

weapon. This includes toys and/or replicas of weapons.

15. Repeated violation of minor infraction is considered a major

infraction.

Discipline Method

This process normally follows specic steps as described below:

• The teacher is the rst line of authority on addressing behavior

requiring discipline.

If the behavior continues, a parent is contacted.

• If there is still no resolution of the problem and parents have

been notied of a discipline problem, a school administrator

becomes involved. At this time a phone call or conference with

the parents, administrator and/or teacher and child are held to

implement a plan of action to resolve the situation.

• Discipline referrals are given to the student and a copy is sent to

the parent to be signed and returned to the ofce.

Disciplinary Probation

Students who accumulate a series of minor infractions or are guilty of

a major infraction may be subject to disciplinary probation - see listing

of infractions above. While on probation, the student’s behavior is

closely monitored by teachers and school administration. Methods to

address behavioral change are recommended. Disciplinary probation

may include denial of privileges and participation in school activities.

The length of the probation period is determined by the administration.

Parents are informed of the probationary status. Students who do not

meet the criteria are required to withdraw from school.

41 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Suspension

A student may be suspended from school following parent

communication. Specic changes in attitudes and actions are

expected prior to readmission. A re-admission parent/administrator

conference is necessary for the student to return to school.

Disciplinary probation is invoked when a student is suspended from

school. Re-admitted students are placed on disciplinary probation

upon their return to PCA. An administrator has the authority at

all times to suspend a student for any violation of a school rule.

The length of suspension is one to ve days as determined by the

administrator. There are two types of suspensions:

In-School Suspension: Students who violate a major school rule

may be assigned an in-school suspension. While excluded from

participating in regular classes, students are able to complete class

work in school.

Out-of-School Suspension: This is for a designated period of time

during which students are not allowed to attend school. Work missed

during any suspension is required to be made up.

Restoration

It is always PCA’s intention to lovingly restore students after a period

of suspension. “Loving them back onto the team” is the only Christ-like

option. As a means to that end, some or all of the following guidelines

govern the readmission of suspended students.

At the beginning of the suspension period, PCA staff and

administration:

• Clearly identify the offense at both the beginning and

end of the suspension.

• Assist the student in verbalizing why the offense was inappropriate

and/or harmful.

• Notify the student’s teachers of the suspension term.

At the end of the suspension period, PCA administration will:

• Conduct a re-entry interview with the student and

at least one parent.

• Assist the student in identifying a plan to ensure improvement.

• Remind the student of their importance in the

PCA community.

Explain that the student is on disciplinary probation and its

ramications, if applicable. Engage in a time of prayer in which the

administrator and parent(s) pray for the student and the student

prayers for any whom they have offended as well as themselves. Staff

encourage the student prior to and/or after re-admission to ease the

discomfort/embarrassment of the student.

Expulsion

Attendance at PCA is a privilege. Any student whose conduct in or out

of school that shows him/her to be in opposition to the basic principles

and purposes of PCA are required to withdraw from the school.

Expulsion is required if it becomes apparent that the school is not

able to meet the needs of a student, or that the student’s behavior is

preventing classroom instruction. When expulsion is recommended, a

date of withdrawal from the school is set and the withdrawal procedure

followed.

Attendance

Arrival and Dismissal

Following are the school day times for each grade:

• PreK-K 8:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

• Grades 1-4 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

• All grade levels dismiss at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday

We respectfully request that parents refrain from signing out their

student during the last 15 minutes of the instructional day. All students

are dismissed at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. Only those students

enrolled in Extended Day may stay past dismissal times. Any child not

picked up by 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, or

2:20 p.m. on Wednesday, is sent to Extended Day and charged the

appropriate fees. Students in Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten may

utilize Extended Day until the 3:15 p.m. carpool. There is a nominal

fee for this service and students must be ofcially enrolled in the

program.

Absences

The following procedures apply to absences:

1. Teachers and the PCA administrative ofce will maintain an

accurate record of attendance and tardiness. The record appears

on myPCA on the student’s progress tab.

2. Parents must phone or email the Lower School receptionist and

teacher to report any absence by 9:00 a.m. (972-798-6780)

3. Students returning after an absence must supply the teacher with

a written excuse from the parent/guardian. Please note that a

telephone call to the PCA receptionist regarding the absence is

not sufcient notication.

4. Students may not miss more than 2 hours of the instructional to

be counted present.

5. In case of illness, a homework assignment sheet is given to the

student upon their return to class (for grades 3-4). Students in

grades PreK-2 receive missed assignments directly from their

teacher. Students have one day for each day they are absent to

make up any work or test missed in class, provided the absence

is excused. If missing work is not turned in, a late grade of 20

points a day will be taken off.

6. If a student is absent, parents may request and pick-up make-

up work. The request for make-up work to be picked up at the

end of the school day (4:00 p.m.) must be made by noon to the

classroom teacher or receptionist.

42 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Excused and Unexcused Absences

• Release from Class. An absence which is initiated from

the school and given prior approval by the administrator,

such as school-scheduled eld trips and school-initiated/school-

scheduled activities, are not reported on the student’s report

card.

• Excused Absences. The following absences are considered

excused if the school receives a note from the parent within

three days after the student returns to school. If a note is

not received within three days, the absence is considered

unexcused which carries an academic penalty on course work

missed. These absences include illness of student or a doctor’s

appointment, death in the family, unavoidable family emergency

or a court appearance.

• Pre-Approved Absences. For the following absences to be

excused, they must be cleared at least one week in advance

with the principal or assistant principal. With advance notice,

these absences are still counted on the report card, but without

points deducted for make-up work or tests, if submitted on time.

Make-up work must be requested at least two days prior to

the pre-approved absence. Students are permitted ve pre-

approved absences. Absences exceeding this amount are at

the principal’s discretion. Pre-approved absences include family

vacation, church retreat or a mission trip.

• Make-up Work. Students or parents are required to contact

the teacher to make arrangements for missed work. Students

must make up all work missed due to approved absences.

Students or parents are required to meet with the teacher to

make arrangements for missed work. A student who misses any

portion of the day must have a note from the doctor or approval

from the principal or assistant principal in order to participate in

any extra-curricular activities that day. A student has one day for

each day he/she is absent to make up any work or tests missed

in class, provided the absence is excused.

• Doctor Appointment. A student who misses school due to a

doctor’s appointment is required to bring a doctor’s note in order

for the absence/tardy to be considered excused.

• Unexcused Absences. All other absences are unexcused and

counted with the student’s total absences recorded on the

student’s report card. Any absences on Grandparent’s Day

is counted as unexcused. Students must be in attendance

a minimum of 90% of the school year or they run the risk of

repeating the grade level. A letter is sent to parents after a

student reaches ten absences. An attendance committee

reviews any absences over ten per semester to determine the

educational process of the student.

Tardies

Students are expected to be in their classrooms and ready for the

school day by the time the tardy bell rings at 8:15 a.m. In order to be

on time. Students coming into the building after the 8:15 a.m. tardy

bell must be accompanied by a parent to sign in with the receptionist.

Excused tardies include: doctor/dental visits, illness and trafc

situations that result in a large number of students being late. All other

tardies are considered unexcused. Three unexcused tardies count

as one absence for the purpose of perfect attendance awards. In the

event of excessive tardies, an administrator will notify the parents.

Carpool

1. Students may not be dropped off at the carpool drop-off point

prior to 8:00 a.m. Students arriving between 7:15 a.m. and

8:00 a.m. must be signed in with school personnel assisting

with Early Morning Care. An exception to the above: If a Lower

School student has a Middle School sibling whose school day

begins at 8:00 a.m. the Middle School student may walk the

sibling to Early Morning Care.

2. Afternoon carpool for PreK-K begins at 2:30 p.m. and 1

- 4

carpool begins at 3:15 p.m. To maximize our instructional day,

we do not load cars until 3:15 p.m. All students are dismissed at

2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and carpool begins at that time.

3. All families are assigned a carpool number. For student safety,

children are only to be placed with a driver showing an ofcial

carpool sign issued by the school. If you are in the carpool line

and do not have your number, you are required to park and

come into the building. The receptionist can then identify you as

a person on the ofcial student Pick-Up and Release Form and

you are then allowed to take the student.

4. Parents are expected to remain in their vehicles in order to

expedite the dismissal process. Walk-ups, particularly during

the afternoon carpool, delay the process and present a safety

concern.

5. For safety reasons children must exit on the curb side of vehicle

and not cross between vehicles

6. For everyone’s safety, our carpool lines are a cell phone

free zone.

Birthdays and Special Occasions

A child’s birthday is very special. If you want to have birthday

refreshments at the school, you must contact the teacher in advance

to set up a day and time. School parties are not an occasion to

exchange gifts; however, a special treat is acceptable at lunchtime or

at another time designated by the teacher. For children with summer

birthdays, please contact the teacher to determine a day and time to

celebrate the summer birthday. For birthday parties outside of school,

please adhere to these guidelines:

1. Invitations may not be distributed in school unless the entire

class is invited. If they are distributed in school, they may be

distributed only at a designated time approved by the teacher.

2. After school carpool lines may not be used as pick up times for

birthday parties. Flowers, balloons and/or gift baskets may not

be delivered to students during the school day or at any school-

sponsored event or program. The exception to this would be

participation in the annual Friends of the Library carnation and

popcorn sales.

43 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

Classroom Visits

We want to minimize disruption to classroom instruction. Therefore,

we ask that parents who wish to visit classes do so within the

following guidelines:

1. Contact the teacher and administrator in advance to schedule

your visit to coincide with the class you wish to visit. The teacher

and/or administrator reserves the right to choose the time of the

visit.

2. At the time of your visit, please sign in with the receptionist

and obtain a visitor’s badge. You must sign out and return your

visitor’s badge at the conclusion of your visit.

3. Any visitor/parent may be accompanied by a PCA employee

during their visit.

Closed Campus

Prestonwood Christian Academy maintains a closed campus. All

visitors must enter the building at the main entrance and check-in with

the receptionist. Non-PCA guests are not allowed in the classroom or

in the lunch room without prior approval from administration.

Dress Code

General Dress Code Guidelines for Lower School are located in the

General Section (pg. 23-25).

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls

• Dress, jumper, skirt, and skort length should not be shorter than

four inches from the crease of the back of the knee. Shorts length

should not be shorter than six inches from the crease in the back

of the knee and must not be tight/form tting.

• Students may only wear PCA sweatshirts, hoodies, sweaters,

and jackets (purchased at Levi’s Locker) during the school day.

Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at all times under

approved outerwear. Blue Polo dresses can be worn by PK-

Fourth Grades.

• Shirts and blouses are to be tucked into slacks, shorts and skirts

at all times.

• Lower School girls must wear modesty shorts under skirts, skorts

or jumpers. Appropriate undergarments must be worn at all times

and should not visible.

• Shoes must be a matching pair and have a closed toe and heel.

The rst choice is tennis shoes for safety purposes during P.E.

and recess.

• Shoes must be a matching pair, predominantly white, navy, black,

brown, or gray. No blinking lights or wheels are allowed.

• Girls may also wear saddle oxfords or Mary Janes. Boys and

girls may wear loafers or Sperrys that are solid color. Socks must

be worn with all shoes.

• No boots of any type, including UGG

type boots

• No ip-ops, clogs, Crocs

, sandals or moccasin-type

footwear.

• No Tom

type slip on shoes

• Socks should be a matching pair and be predominantly white,

navy, black, or gray only; solid color knee socks are permissible.

Fringed socks must match uniform.

• Tights and ankle length leggings are acceptable and must be

solid white, navy or black opaque weight. Leggings must be worn

with socks. Athletic tights, warm-ups, long johns or stirrup pants

are not acceptable.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students in grades

2nd and above only if belt loops are visible. If belt loops are

covered by PCA outwear, then no belt is required.

• Hair accessories should be limited to navy blue, forest green,

black, brown, white, gold, yellow or black-watch plaid in color.

Hair pieces and feathers are not allowed.

• Hair must be the natural color; highlighting or bleaching is not

permitted.

• Make-up may not be worn during the school day.

• Hats may not be worn during the school day.

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys

• Shorts length should not be shorter than six inches from the

crease in the back of the knee and must not be tight/form tting.

• Students may only wear PCA sweatshirts, hoodies, sweaters,

and jackets (purchased at Levi’s Locker) during the school day.

Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at all times under

approved outerwear. Shirts are to be tucked into slacks and

shorts at all times.

• Shoes must be a matching pair and have a closed toe and heel.

The rst choice is tennis shoes for safety purposes during P.E.

and recess.

• Shoes must be a matching pair, predominantly white, navy, black,

brown, or gray. No blinking lights or wheels are allowed.

• Boys may wear loafers or Sperrys

that are solid color. Socks

must be worn with all shoes and must be visible. “No-show”

socks are not acceptable.

• Dress shoes and loafers - leather or suede, solid color in navy,

black or brown.

44 | LOWER SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - LOWER SCHOOL (Pre-K—4)

• No boots of any type

• No Toms type slip on shoes

• No ip-ops, clogs, Crocs

, sandals or moccasin-type

slipper footwear

• Socks should match and be predominantly white, navy, black, or

gray.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students in grades

2nd and above only if belt loops are visible. If belt loops are

covered by PCA outwear, then no belt is required.

• Hair may not extend past the bottom of the collar or fall lower

than the eyebrows or below the bottom of the ear lobe. Mohawks

(shaved sides) are not allowed.

• Hats may not be worn during the school day.

• White t-shirts only are allowed under the uniform shirts.

Chapel Dress Code for All Students

• Girls (PK-4th): plaid pleated jumper or plaid skirt with Peter Pan

collar blouse.

• Boys (Pre-K-4): Navy or Khaki slacks or shorts with blue and

white striped oxford.

Extended Day

Extended Day is committed to providing a safe, onsite environment for

your student to receive after school care.

This service is offered exclusively to PCA students ranging in grades

from PreK to 8th grade. The Extended Day staff is composed of PCA

faculty and childcare professionals that align with our biblical beliefs

and school mission. PCA is fortunate to be able to provide this service

to our parents and attending Extended Day is considered a privilege.

Students participating in this program are required to adhere to the

PCA Code of Conduct. Discipline policies that pertain to the school

day, also apply to the Extended Day program. An administrator at

any time has the authority to remove a student and/or revoke their

enrollment from the Extended Day program.

Registration is required. Program details, pricing, and enrollment

information can be found on myPCA.

Field Trips

Field trips are taken during the school year. They are fun and

informative learning experiences, primarily designed to enrich the

curriculum of PCA. The Parent Authorization Form, which must be

on le before your child begins school, releases the school from any

liability. Any parent who wishes to drive on a eld trip must be cleared

by PCA to chaperone or drive on eld trips, must be licensed and must

be able to demonstrate that they are properly insured. Any parent

interested, please submit your name to your child’s teacher to begin

the approval process.

1. PCA activities are for current PCA students only. No other

students are allowed to attend. Siblings are not allowed to attend.

2. Any student on disciplinary probation may be excluded from the

eld trip.

3. School rules, regulations and policies are in effect on all eld trips

on or off campus.

4. The sponsoring teacher communicates the dress code.

5. If parents choose not to allow their child to participate in a

scheduled eld trip, parents should make other arrangements for

their child’s care and an absence is documented.

6. Parent chaperones are secured in advance for all eld trips and

must have the completed background check on le. Parents who

do not have a completed background check on le will not be

allowed to chaperone children other than their own on eld trips.

Parties

Because of the secularization of so many holidays, the following

guidelines are used in the handling of class parties:

• All parties are to be held on campus. Parents are welcome to

attend class parties but should make child care arrangements for

siblings. This allows the focus to remain on the students in each

classroom.

• Halloween: Halloween is not observed.

• Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is celebrated with a Thanksgiving

feast in certain grades.

• Christmas: Class parties may be planned with an emphasis on

the birth of Christ.

• Valentines: Class parties may be planned. Valentines may be

exchanged provided students bring them for all class members.

Derogatory, negative or “putdown” cards are not acceptable and

may not be used.

• Easter: Class parties are planned with an emphasis on the

substitutionary death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus

Christ.

• End of the Year: Parties are held on the last week of school.

Searches of Students

Students, their cubbies or desks shall be subject to searches by

school ofcials including but not limited to student’s outer clothing,

pockets, cubbies, desks or belongings, backpacks, purses and other

cases designated to carry or that can conceal items.

Use of Third Party Security Enforcement

The school shall retain the right to utilize third party resources such as

security guards, canine units, etc. to further establish a secure zone

on the PCA campus.

Volunteers

We welcome parent volunteers to assist in various classroom/school

activities. Any parent wishing to volunteer must have an acceptable

background check on le and be cleared by administration.

45 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

North Campus

Middle School

Grade 5—Grade 8

Parent/Student Handbook

2023-24

46 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Middle School (5—8) Administration

Greg Wright Principal

Lydia Vestal Assistant Principal

Kristin Dysart Guidance Counselor

Tasha Wilkinson Administrative Assistant

April Thurman Administrative Assistant

Sarah Grubbs Guidance Administrative Assistant and Registrar

Sandy Matthews Nurse

Arrival and Dismissal

Following are the school day times for grades 5-8:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

8:00 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.

• Wednesday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Academics

Ability Skills Grouping

Students in grades 7-8 are given individualized schedules based on

academic skills grouping in math. Placement is determined using

MAP assessment scores, skills assessment, yearly math average,

and teacher recommendation. For students new to PCA, information

obtained during the admissions process is used for placement.

Class Scheduling

In the Spring of each year, students make course requests through

MyPCA and their schedule is based upon these selections as closely

as possible. Students may not request specic teachers or sections.

Dropping Elective Courses

Students have approximately two weeks to make any change

requests regarding elective classes once the semester (fall or spring)

has begun. Approval is given by administration and dependent upon

availabilty.

Summer School for Failing Students

Students who are completing 8th grade will be required to attend

summer school if they have earned a failing grade for the year (below

70) in English or Math.

Upper School Courses in Seventh or Eighth Grade

Algebra I, Spanish I courses taken in grades 7-8 are included on the

Upper School transcript, but not in the calculation of the student’s

cumulative Upper School GPA.

Students with Learning Differences

If a student has been tested and diagnosed with learning differences

within the past three years, he/she may qualify for special classroom

or testing accommodations. A copy of the evaluation must be

submitted to the Director of Specialized Learning.

Grading Scale

The grading scales used by PCA for grades 5-8 students are as

follows:

A+ 98-100 B+ 87-89 C+ 77-79 F 0-69

A 93-97 B 83-86 C 73-76

A- 90-92 B- 80-82 C- 70-72

Semester Exams: Semester exam grades count 10 percent of the

semester average in grades 7-8.

Anything below 70 indicates a lack of mastery.

Minimester

Minimester is a time of specialized learning for each grade level

that helps to prepare students for Upper School travel, service, and

evangelism trips. Additionally, Minimester is part of the Middle School

curriculum, with the potential for graded assignments connected to

each trip; therefore, participation is required.

Students in 8th grade have a week-long trip focusing on their grade-

level curriculum. There is a cost to parents above and beyond tuition

for this trip. Parent meetings are held in the fall to provide more

information, including a tentative itinerary and scheduled payment

plan.

Students in 6th and 7th grades will attend an overnight, outdoor

education experience which focuses on Biblical principles and service

opportunities.

Students in 5th grade will have a time of specialized learning on and

off-campus that complements the classroom curriculum and a service

emphasis.

Homework

The primary purpose for homework is to develop responsibility and

accountability. It is assumed that homework is a regular part of

school life, with increasing time and application required as a student

progresses through each grade. In general, homework is for skill

practice, enrichment or more in-depth attention to a given unit of

study. Middle School teachers will avoid assigning a new homework

assignment on Wednesday that is due the next school day. Some

assignments are given days or weeks in advance and students

may choose to use weekend time to work on them. Whether or not

a student spends less or more time depends on the organization,

use of time, homework environment and other factors. For good

communication and to avoid late homework, we ask that you review

your child’s daily assignments.

If at any time there is a question or concern regarding an assignment,

please contact your child’s teacher.

Missed/Late Assignments Policy

The policy listed below pertains to students in grades 5-8 only:

• 15 points are deducted from an assignment (HW, classwork, or

project/essay) that is turned one day late.

• 30 points are deducted for an assignment that is two days late.

• 50 points are deducted for an assignment that is three days late.

A teacher may assign a zero for an assignment that is turned in

more than three days late.

47 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Tests and Quizzes

As a result of an excused absence, it is the expectation that the

student will have one day for each day missed to make up tests

and/or quizzes. Extra time to make up tests and/or quizzes are at

the discretion of the teacher. Additionally, teachers may contact the

guidance ofce and parent if needed to assist in scheduling a make-

up test and/or quiz.

Physical Education

When any student has a physical challenge that limits activity or

prohibits a particular activity, the school requires a note from the

family medical doctor indicating the reason for limitation and the

period of time for which the limitation is valid. Likewise, if a student

needs to be excused from participation in P.E. due to an illness, a

note is required from a doctor or parent.

Academic Probation

Students are placed on academic probation if they receive two

“F” grades at the end of a semester grading period. Parents are

informed of the probationary status. Once a student is notied of their

probationary status, they remain on the list for one calendar year (12

months/two semesters).

During this time, PCA faculty makes every effort to ensure student

success with regards to academic improvement. A student may not

receive one “F” for a semester average in any subject during the

12-month probationary period. If such grades do re-occur during this

period, the student may not be allowed to re-enroll for the following

school year. Students who are asked to leave PCA for academic

reasons may reapply after one calendar year. If they choose to

return to PCA after the academic year, they must apply through the

Admissions Ofce and follow normal admissions procedures.

Promotion to the Next Grade

Middle School students are not promoted to the next grade unless

they attend the PCA Credit Recovery Program in the summer or a

summer school program approved by PCA administration for any of

the following reasons:

1. Student has failed math for the school year.

2. Student has failed language arts for the school year.

3. Student has failed a combination of any two subjects other

than math or language arts for the school year. In all cases, the

administration reserves the right to make the nal decision for any

academic actions.

4. In accordance with the Texas Education Code, students must be in

attendance a minimum of 90% of the school year or they may be

required to repeat the grade level.

Double Promotions

PCA typically does not practice promoting current or newly enrolled

students into a grade beyond their age group. In assisting parents,

our focus remains on what would be best for the children in light of

what has been widely observed when children are promoted into

a grade beyond their age mates. Generally the situation results

in students experiencing difculty in their social and/or academic

development.

Report Cards and myPCA

Parents and students have the ability to check and monitor progress

in each of the students academic classes through myPCA. This

information is available on the student’s progress tab. Report Cards

will also be available at the end of each quarter on the progress tab.

Parents and students are assigned an individual user name and

password to access myPCA. MyPCA is one of the most important

ways teachers communicate with parents and students, including

assignments and due dates, test and quiz dates, and comments on

grades as feedback. Utilizing myPCA and its resources regularly is

essential to the family/school partnership. Parents are encouraged

to review assignments daily and to check with the teacher if there

are questions about the classroom schedule. It is the parent’s

responsibility to carefully review what the student is actually

accomplishing in the homework process.

Testing of Students

All students are tested prior to admission. In addition, Middle School

students will demonstrate academic progress and mastery through

Beginning, Middle, and End-of-Year administration of NWEA’s MAP

Growth assessment in, at minimum, Math and Language Arts/

Reading. For 8th grade students, PCA administers the PSAT in the

fall. The PSAT is a practice test for the College Board’s Scholastic

Aptitude Test (SAT). PCA offers these exams at no additional charge.

Students are automatically registered for the exam and the exams are

taken during the standard school day. Exam results are also used for

PCA course level placement. Students who are re-enrolling are not

normally expected to take tests beyond the standard achievement

and school ability tests; however, if school personnel need additional

test data to make a reenrollment decision, parents are so advised.

Textbooks

Some textbooks will be accessed digitally, while others are physical

copies provided to students either in class or as consumables to

use for practice and assignments. If a physical textbook is assigned,

students are expected to maintain them as directed by the teacher

and have them ready for use in class when needed. If a physical

textbook is lost or damaged beyond usability, the family of the student

who lost or damaged the book will be responsible for its replacement.

In ELAR classes, students will be provided with copies of the in-class

novels for units of study, with the exception of summer reading books

(when applicable).

Discipline

We believe it is God-ordained that parents bear the primary

responsibility for teaching their children biblical standards of

behavior and attitudes. Prestonwood Christian Academy provides

an atmosphere of order that is essential in allowing a student

to lead a Spirit-controlled, Christ-like life. It is the responsibility

of the teacher to dene behavioral boundaries consistent with

biblical principles and developmental capability. Teachers establish

classroom procedures and discuss school-wide rules with students

at the beginning of the school year. A student who disobeys school

or class rules or the teacher’s verbal instructions may lose privileges

or be separated from the class. When misbehavior is habitually

repeated or there is a severe infraction of school policy, the student

is sent to the appropriate administrator. STUDENTS AND THEIR

PARENTS AGREE AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT PCA’S DECISIONS

REGARDING DISCIPLINARY ACTION SHALL BE FINAL. Students

violating the student Code of Conduct outside of the school campus

or in school activities are subject to disciplinary action.

48 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Code of Conduct: 24/7/365

Students are expected to represent Prestonwood Christian

Academy in a positive manner even when they are not on school

grounds or attending school functions. Students and their parents

acknowledge and understand that students are subject to discipline

for conduct occurring off-campus or during non-school hours,

including weekends, holidays and summers. The administration

deals directly with any student who violates the Code of Conduct

or draws attention to PCA in a negative manner which may result in

disciplinary action or a student’s dismissal from the school.

Minor Infractions

The following non-comprehensive list of minor infractions can be

handled in class by teachers, depending on situation and severity.

After a verbal warning and conversation with student, parents

will be contacted and the infraction will be entered into MyPCA

by the teacher. For subsequent or ongoing infractions, additional

consequences include assignment of teacher detentions, ofce

referral, and principal-assigned disciplinary actions.

The following is a non-comprehensive list of minor infractions:

1. All toys, electronic games or devices (including cell phones and

cameras), and playing/trading cards are subject to conscation

by school personnel. Cell phones must also be turned off (not

on silent or vibrate modes) and kept in backpack if on the North

campus or Plano Campus) at all times. Cell phones are only

allowed to be used if given direct permission from a school

ofcial. Cell phones and other electronic devices are subject to

search and seizure provisions to examine postings, messages,

pictures, graphics and depictions and appropriate disciplinary

actions may result from inappropriate material or use.

2. Failure to comply with the PCA dress code.

3. Failure to obey all rules given by teachers.

4. Use of any school equipment without a staff member’s

permission.

5. If Middle School students bring cell phones, ear pods/airpods,

headphones, earphones or smart watches to school, these

devices should not be a distraction, and should be powered

off or on silent. Devices may not be out during the day without

permission from school staff.

5th through 8th Grade students are not allowed to use

personal cell phones or other smart devices, ear buds/airpods,

headphones, or smart watches during the school day unless

they are specically given permission by a staff member. These

devices should be turned off and kept in the student’s locker

(Plano Campus - backpack if on North campus) at all times. If

a student uses one of these devices without permission during

school hours, either in a classroom, during lunch, or during a

passing period, the device will be conscated and the following

steps are taken:

• 1st Offense - Item will be conscated and can be picked up in

the ofce at the end of the school day. Items conscated at the

end of the school day can be picked up at the end of the next

school day.

• 2nd Offense - Device is conscated. Parent picks up the device

at the end of the school day and schedules student for Saturday

School.

• 3rd Offense, and any offense beyond this - Device is

conscated and student is assigned a Saturday School. Device

will not be returned to the student until the student serves the

Saturday School.

6. Failure to act in a quiet and orderly fashion while in hallways,

restrooms and during carpool.

7. Engaging in behavior that disrupts the learning environment or

progress.

Major Infractions

Although not all-inclusive, the following may result in suspension

or immediate separation from the school: In all cases, the

administrator reserves the right to make the nal decision for

any disciplinary action.

The following is a non-comprehensive list of major infractions.

1. Use of Abusive or Profane Language and Disrespect: Using

abusive or profane language, and showing disrespect or

insolence to teachers and classmates, is not tolerated and

results in disciplinary action.

2. Disruptive Behavior: Repeated classroom disruptions that

prohibit learning in all classroom situations is not tolerated and

will result in disciplinary action.

3. Bullying: see Anti-Harassment Policy in the General Section.

4. Cheating/Dishonesty: Students are responsible for preventing

the giving or receiving of assistance (written, oral or otherwise)

on tests, examinations, nal evaluation or class assignments

that are to be graded as the work of a single individual. This

also includes lying, plagiarism, or forgery.

5. Drug Use/Substance Abuse: The possession, use or distribution

of illegal drugs, controlled substances or alcohol and/or misuse

of over-the-counter drugs or prescription drugs, is prohibited.

Students connected to, or associated with, any drug-related

persons or events may be required to submit to drug testing

and subject to expulsion. Students in the presence of these

substances may be disciplined as well. Violation of this rule is

dealt with whether on or off campus.

6. PCA is considered a drug/alcohol-free zone and therefore

practices a zero tolerance policy as it relates to the possession,

use and/or distribution of illegal drugs or a controlled substance

on its campus.

7. Tobacco Products: The possession, use, or distribution

of tobacco product(s) such as but not limited to electronic

cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco etc. is prohibited.

49 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

8. Electronic Device or Medium: A misuse, as dened by the

Acceptable Use Policy of an electronic device or medium or

a signicant abuse of such privilege may result in disciplinary

action. These items are not allowed to be on or used during the

school day. Additionally, inappropriate material or depictions

sent, posted, shared or possessed on any electronic device

including cell phones and the Internet are subject to appropriate

disciplinary action at the discretion of PCA administration.

For safety reasons, all cell phones must be put away during

afternoon carpool. Repeated failure to comply will result in

disciplinary action.

9. Fighting: Students are responsible for settling confrontations in

a peaceful manner and without the use of violence. Fighting or

play ghting is not tolerated on or near school grounds or at any

school-sponsored activity. Students are reminded that ghting

may result in suspension.

10. Violation of Fire Safety Regulations: Violations of re regulations,

including tampering with re alarms, using matches, lighters, or

recrackers, is considered serious offenses.

11. Gambling: Card playing for the purpose of gambling, or any other

form of gambling, is forbidden.

12. Immorality: Students are expected to maintain moral purity

as is outlined in God’s Word. Unacceptable sexual behavior

includes but is not limited to inappropriate contact and any issue

associated with pornography, whether on or off campus. Public

Display of Romantic Affection: Students are not allowed to show

public display of romantic affection on campus.

13. Insubordination/Disrespect: Insubordination or disrespect,

including lying to a staff member or administration; may result in

the assignment of Saturday School, or possible suspension.

14. Stealing: Knowingly taking items that do not belong to you,

constitues stealing. Minimum Suspension: Saturday School or

suspension.

15. Truancy: Missing school or any part of a school day without

parent or teacher permission is truancy. Students must obtain

permission before leaving a classroom.

16. Vandalism: Destruction or defacing of property belonging to

the school, PBC, or others, including textbooks will result in

disciplinary action as well as assessing compensatory damages.

17. Possession of Weapons: The possession, use, threat of use,

distribution or attempted distribution (by sale, gift or otherwise)

of any type of operable or inoperable weapon such as rearms,

knives, switchblades, mace, tear gas, bullets, reworks and

other explosives is expressly forbidden. Whether designed as a

weapon or not, an object is considered a weapon if it is used as a

weapon. This includes toys and/or replicas of weapons.

18. Repeated violation of minor infractions is considered a

major infraction.

Discipline Method

This process will normally follow specic steps as described below:

• The teacher is the rst line of authority on addressing behavior

requiring discipline.

If the behavior continues, a parent is contacted.

• If there is still no resolution of the problem and parents have been

notied of a discipline problem, a school administrator becomes

involved. At this time a phone call or conference with the parents,

administrator and/or teacher and child is held to implement a plan

of action to resolve the situation.

• Discipline referrals are given to the student and a copy is sent to

the parent.

Detention and Saturday School

Detentions may be given when students fail to comply with school

regulations and may be given before or after school, during lunch or

Saturday mornings. Failure to report to detention on time or disruptive

behavior during detention could result in further disciplinary action. If a

student misses a detention or Saturday School, he/she serves two.

Parents are notied of a student’s detention. Saturday School

are from 7:00 to 10:00 a.m. Students attending Saturday School

must:

• Arrive in school uniform at 6:55 a.m.

• Pay $25 upon arrival

• Bring supplies (pen, paper and school work) for a silent study

hall. Students who arrive after 7:05 a.m. or fail to bring their $25

payment are not permitted to stay for Saturday School.

Suspension

A student may be suspended from school following parent

communication. Specic changes in attitudes and actions are

expected prior to re-admission. A re-admission parent/administrator

conference is necessary for the student to return to school.

Disciplinary probation may be invoked when a student is suspended

from school. An administrator has the authority at all times to suspend

a student for any violation of a school rule. The length of suspension is

determined by the administrator.

Out-of-School Suspension: This is for a designated period of time

during which students are not allowed to attend school. Work missed

during any suspension is required to be made up over a reasonable

time period as determined by administration.

50 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Restoration Plan

It is always the intention of Prestonwood Christian Academy to

lovingly restore students after a period of suspension. “Loving them

back onto the team” is the only Christ-like option. As a means to

that end, the following guidelines will govern the re-admission of

suspended students:

At the beginning of the suspension period, PCA staff and

administration will:

• Clearly identify the offense at both the beginning and end of the

suspension.

• Assist the student in verbalizing why the offense was

inappropriate and/or harmful.

• Notify the student’s teachers/coaches of the suspension term,

but not the nature of the offense.

At the end of the suspension period, PCA staff and administration

will:

• Conduct a re-entry interview with the student and at least one

parent.

• Assist the student in identifying a plan to ensure improvement.

• Remind the student of their importance in the PCA community.

• Explain that the student is on disciplinary probation and its

ramications, if applicable.

• Engage in a time of prayer in which the administrator and

parent(s) pray for the student and the student prays for any

whom they have offended as well as themselves.

• In addition, staff are encouraged to call the student with words

of encouragement (not lecture) prior to re-admission to ease the

discomfort/embarrassment of the student.

Disciplinary Probation

Students who accumulate a series of minor infractions or are guilty

of a major infraction may be subject to disciplinary probation [see

listing of infractions.]. While on probation, the student’s behavior is

closely monitored by teachers and school administration. Methods

to address behavioral change is recommended. Disciplinary

probation may include denial of privileges and participation in school

activities. The length of the probation period is determined by the

administration. Parents are informed of the probationary status. If

a student on disciplinary probation is involved in any disciplinary

infraction (major or minor), he/she may be subject to immediate

dismissal at the discretion of the school administration following the

guidelines outlined under the section titled “Expulsion.”

Expulsion

Attendance at Prestonwood Christian Academy is a privilege.

Any student whose conduct in or out of school that shows him/

her to be in opposition to the basic principles and purposes of

Prestonwood Christian Academy is required to withdraw from the

school. Expulsion is required if it becomes apparent that the school

is not able to meet the needs of a student, or that the student’s

behavior is preventing classroom instruction. Expulsion may also be

recommended for unresolved academic or disciplinary probation.

When expulsion is recommended, a date of withdrawal from the

school is set and the withdrawal procedure followed.

Loss of Privilege

In an effort to help guide our students in their behavior, the school

administration may remove any school related privilege as a

disciplinary consequence for a determined period of time. Campus

administration determines the length of the removal of privileges

according to the disciplinary consequence necessary.

Attendance

Arrival and Dismissal

Following are the school day times for grades 5-8:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

8:00 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.

• Wednesday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Middle School students who are not involved in a school-related

sport or other supervised activity should not be dropped off on

campus before 7:30 a.m., and must be picked up no more than

20 minutes after dismissal time. Any Middle School student who

remains on campus more than 20 minutes after school dismissal will

be sent to Extended Care and parents will be subject to a drop-in

charge.

Carpool

1. We respectfully request that parents refrain from signing out

their student during the last 15 minutes of the instructional day.

Afternoon carpool begins following the 3:20 p.m. dismissal. To

maximize our instructional day, we do not load cars until after

the 3:20 p.m. dismissal.

2. Parents are expected to remain in their vehicles in order to

expedite the dismissal process.

3. No cell phone use by drivers is permitted in the carpool line.

51 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Absences

When your child is absent from school, please call or email the

school receptionist. The following procedures apply to absences:

1. Teachers and the receptionist maintain an accurate record of

attendance and tardiness. The attendance record appears on

report cards.

2. Please call (972)798-6786 or email the receptionist by 9:00 a.m.

on the day of the absence.

3. Attendance is recorded by class period. Students must be

present for more than half of the class in order to be counted

present.

4. Students who are not present for three full academic subjects

of the school day may not be permitted to participate in

extracurricular activities on that particular day without

administrative approval.

5. Students that are absent are responsible for obtaining

homework assignments utilizing myPCA, fellow classmates

or email the teacher requesting the assignments. It should be

noted that teachers do not always check their emails during

the school day, resulting in some responses to emails being

delayed.

6. Students have one day for each day absent to make up work,

provided the absence is excused. A plan for making up work for

an extended absence should be arranged with each teacher.

7. An absence that is initiated from the school and given prior

approval by the administration is not reected on the report card.

These include school-scheduled eld trips, activities, and school

sporting events where the participant is involved. In accordance

with the Texas Education Code, students must be in attendance

a minimum of 90% of the school year. A student may not

miss more than 9 class periods per semester. Once a student

has missed 5 or more days, a doctor’s note is required. An

attendance committee reviews absences over 9 per semester

to determine the educational progress of the student. Saturday

School may be assigned for credit recovery.

Excused and Unexcused Absences

Release from Class: An absence which is initiated from the school

and given prior approval by the administrator, such as school-

scheduled eld trips and school-initiated/school-scheduled activities,

are not reported on the student’s report card.

Excused Absences: The following absences are considered

excused if the school receives a note from the parent within three

days after the student returns to school. If a note is not received

within three days, the absence is course work missed. These

absences include illness of student or a doctor’s appointment, death

in the immediate family, unavoidable family emergency,

or a court appearance.

• Pre-Approved Absences: For the following absences to be

excused, they must be cleared in advance with the principal

or assistant principal. Students should use the Pre-Approved

Absence form, found on myPCA on the MS/US Resource Board

or in the school ofce, to schedule a pre-approved absence.

With advance notice, these absences are counted on the report

card, but without penalty for make-up work or tests, if submitted

on time. Students are permitted ve pre-approved absences

during the school year. Absences exceeding this amount are at

the principal’s discretion. Pre-approved absences include family

vacation, church retreat or a mission trip. Students must be in

good academic standing to be granted pre-approved absences.

• Make-up Work: Students must make up all work missed due

to approved absences. Students are required to meet with the

teacher to make arrangements for missed work. A student who

misses any portion of the day must have a note from the doctor

or approval from the principal or assistant principal in order to

participate in any extra-curricular activities that day. A student

has one day for each day he/she is absent to make up any work

or tests missed in class, provided the absence is excused.

• Doctor Appointment: A doctor’s note is required in order for the

absence/tardy to be considered excused.

• Unexcused Absences: All absences not meeting the criteria

listed for Excused Absences are unexcused and are counted

with the student’s total absences and recorded on the student

report card. Examples of unexcused absences:

a. Staying home to study.

b. Oversleeping

c. Tired from previous day’s activities

d. Choosing not to come to school

e. Absences without parent permission

Additionally, a student cannot miss more than nine of a particular

class period per semester. If a student misses more than one-

half of any one period, he/she is counted as having been absent

for the whole period. If a student has more than nine absences

in any one period, the student may be assigned to School

Attendance Recovery.

• When a student is absent from school because of illness, the

student—upon returning to school—must bring a note signed

by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. Five

parent notes are allowed per semester to receive an excused

absence. Once the student has exceeded the allowable amount

of parent notes, all subsequent absences are unexcused unless

a doctor’s note is provided.

• In conjunction with Texas State Law, our attendance policy

requires that a student not incur more than nine absences that

are excused, unexcused or pre-approved (10%) of a particular

period per semester. If a student has more than nine absences,

he or she is assigned School Attendance Recovery time (before

school, after school for individual class periods or on Saturday

52 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

for full days missed) in order to make up time missed during the

semester. You are notied if your student reaches nine absences

for any period, along with the appropriate action that is taken.

• We would ask that you please refrain from picking your child up

early as it affects our instruction time.

Tardies to School

Students are expected to be in their seat and ready for the start of

the school day by the time the tardy bell rings at 8:00 a.m. In order

to be on time, students should be dropped off no later than 7:50

a.m. Students coming into the building after the 8:00 a.m. tardy bell

are required to sign in with the receptionist. Excused tardies include

doctor/dental visits, illness (limit 3 without doctor note) and trafc

situations that result in a large number of students being late. All other

tardies are considered unexcused. Three unexcused tardies count

as one unexcused absence for the purpose of perfect attendance

awards.

In the event of excessive tardies, an administrator will notify the

parents.

• 1st Tardy - Warning with parent contact

• 2nd Tardy - Warning with parent contact

• 3rd Tardy - Lunch detention with parent contact

• 4th Tardy - 2 lunch detentions with parent contact

• 5+ Tardies - Saturday School

Tardies to Class

Students are expected to be in their seats when the bell rings.

Arriving more than 5 minutes late to class unexcused (unless

there is an extenuating circumstance determined at the discretion

of administration) is considered excessive tardiness and result in

additional consequences. Repeated tardies to class that are less than

5 minutes will result in discipline action admininstered by the teacher.

• 1st Tardy - Warning

• 2nd Tardy - Parent contact

• 3rd Tardy - Lunch detention with parent contact

• 4th Tardy - 2 Lunch detentions

• 5+ Tardies - Week of Lunch detentions

Students begin each semester with zero tardies in each class.

Co-curricular Programs (athletics, ne arts, academics)

In order for students to participate in Middle School athletics, a

physical by a physician is required. The appropriate forms must be

on le with the Athletic Ofce prior to the rst practice of the sport in

which the student is participating. Middle School athletic wear, must

be worn by all athletes during practices unless otherwise specied by

the coaches.

Eligibility

Competitive sports and other co-curricular activities (Academics and

Fine Arts competitions) can contribute to a well-rounded education;

however, being that such activities are co-curricular, they require

some basis for eligibility in order to ensure that these activities support

rather than hinder a student’s overall education.

Students failing more than one course are considered ineligible for

a minimum of two weeks. The rst day of ineligibility begins on the

date the ofcial report card is posted on myPCA and runs for 14

consecutive days. On the rst day after the 14-day ineligibility period

ends, the student is considered eligible for full participation in co-

curricular activities if they are no longer failing more than one course.

A student who continues to fail more than one course (not limited

to the initial courses they were failing at the start of the 14-day

ineligibility date) shall remain ineligible on a week-to-week basis until

such time as the student is failing no more than one course. These

weeks are considered to be a seven-day period beginning on the

day following the 14-day ineligibility time period and continuing seven

consecutive days. Upon the end of the seventh day, grades are

checked by administration to determine eligibility.

All eligibility and ineligibility requirements stated above are in

compliance with Article V and Subchapter K, Section 77 as stated

in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS)

governance handbook. Middle School co-curricular activities are not

governed by TAPPS, but follow the same guidelines as Upper School

for eligibility.

Sportsmanship Code of Conduct

All types of competitive team experiences contribute signicantly to

the development of Christian character, mutual support and school

spirit. Sportsmanship is an important part of this training. We expect

our coaches, players and students to represent PCA in a manner that

is respectful of others on and off the eld of play. We also encourage

and endorse the enthusiastic support of parents and friends. In the

process, we expect all to uphold the same high standards that we

ask of our students. Opposing teams and their fans are to be treated

as honored guests. Students who fail to meet these standards face

disciplinary action or be removed from athletic participation.

Fees

Fees are required for most co-curricular activities. Access to grades is

withheld for unpaid fees or items that are not returned.

Birthdays and Special Occasions

A child’s birthday is very special. If you would like to provide birthday

refreshments at the school, this must be done during the lunch

time. School birthday celebrations are not an occasion to exchange

gifts. For children with summer birthdays, please contact the front

ofce for prior approval to determine a day and time to celebrate the

summer birthday. Should a parent wish to provide lunch for a grade

level, please contact the Middle School ofces prior to the date of the

lunch. For birthday parties outside of school, please adhere to these

guidelines:

1. Invitations may not be distributed in school unless the entire

class is invited. If they are distributed in school, they may be

distributed only at a designated time approved by the teacher.

After school carpool lines may not be used as pick up times for

birthday parties. As children age, they should have certain things to

anticipate upon entering Upper School. Because of this, owers and/

or gift baskets may not be delivered to students during the school day

or at any school-sponsored event or program. The only exception is

participation in the annual Friends of the Library fundraiser.

53 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

Classroom Visits

We welcome visitors to our classrooms. However, we want to minimize

disruption to classroom instruction. Parents who wish to observe

classes must do so within the following guidelines:

1. Contact the teacher or an administrator in advance to schedule

your visit to coincide with the class you wish to observe.

2. At the time of your visit, please sign in with the receptionist

and obtain a visitor’s badge. You must sign out and return your

visitor’s badge at the conclusion of your visit.

3. Visitors (other than parents) who wish to visit PCA must get prior

written permission from the school administration. This includes

lunch visits with current PCA students.

Closed Campus

Prestonwood Christian Academy maintains a closed campus. All

visitors to PCA North Middle School must enter at the PCA North

Middle School (Portable 2/Pride Rock) entrances and check in with

the receptionist. Prior approval from an administrator is required to

visit a classroom or lunch. Visitors to campus who wish to have lunch

with a PCA North Middle School student must have prior approval and

a printed visitor badge from the PCA North Middle School reception

desk before entering the lunch area.Non-PCA guests are not allowed

in the classroom or in the lunch room without prior approval from

administration.

Dress Code

General Dress Code Guidelines for Middle School are located in the

General Section (pg. 23-25).

Dress Code Guidelines for Girls

• Skirt and skort length should not be shorter than four inches from

the crease of the back of the knee. Shorts length should not be

shorter than six inches from the crease in the back of the knee

and must not be tight/form tting.

• Students may only wear sweatshirts, hoodies, sweaters, and

jackets in PCA colors (solid navy, gray, or black) with no logos

other than PCA branded logos (purchased at Levi’s Locker) during

the school day. These items cannot extend longer than the hips

and/or cover the uniform skirt.

• Shirts and blouses are to be tucked into slacks, shorts and skirts

at all times.

• Appropriate undergarments and modesty shorts are to be worn

under skirts at all times and should not be visible.

• Girls have the option of wearing the approved Lands’ End Stretch

Pencil or Plain Front Stretch Chino Pants.

• Only solid white T-shirts (without writing) may be worn under

uniform shirts.

• Camisoles worn under uniform, eld trip or spirit shirts

must be white and not visible.

• Shoes must be a matching pair and have a closed toe and heel.

• Socks must be a matching pair and should be predominantly

white, navy, black, or gray. No boots of any type, except on Spirit

Days.

• No ip-ops, clogs, sandals or moccasin-type footwear including

slippers/house shoes or shoes with wheels.

• Tights should be white, navy or black. Athletic tights, warm-ups,

long johns or stirrup pants are not acceptable. Leggings may be

worn but must be solid navy or black.

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students only if belt

loops are visible. If belt loops are covered by PCA outwear, then

no belt is required.

• Hair accessories should be modest and coordinate colors with

uniform; hair pieces are not allowed.

• Highlighting and coloring of hair are permitted as long as the

highlights and color are a natural hair color and the highlights

blend with the hair color.

• For girls in grades 5-6, make-up may not be worn during the

school day. For girls in grades 7-8, make-up may be worn in

moderation.

• Hats may not be worn during the school day.

Dress Code Guidelines for Boys

• Shorts length should not be shorter than six inches from the

crease in the back of the knee and must not be tight/form tting.

• Students may only wear sweatshirts, hoodies, sweaters, and

jackets in PCA approved colors (solid navy, gray, white or black)

with no logos other than PCA branded logos (purchased at Levi’s

Locker) during the school day. Uniform polo shirt collar should be

visible at all times under approved outerwear.

• Shirts are to be tucked into shorts or pants at all times.

• Only solid white T-shirts (without writing) may be worn under

uniform shirts.

• Uniform polo shirt collar should be visible at all times under

approved outerwear.

• Shoes must be a matching pair and have a closed toe and heel.

• Socks must be a matching pair and should be predominantly

white, navy, black, or gray.

• No boots of any type, except on Spirit Days.

• No ip-ops, clogs or sandals or moccasin-type footwear

including slippers/house shoes or shoes with wheels.

54 | MIDDLE SCHOOL - NORTH CAMPUS Parent/Student Handbook

PCA NORTH - MIDDLE SCHOOL (5—8)

• Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for students only if belt

loops are visible. If belt loops are covered by PCA outwear, then

no belt is required.

• Hair may not extend past the bottom of the collar or fall lower

than the eyebrows or below the bottom of the ear lobe. Mohawks

(shaved sides) are not allowed.

• Highlighting and coloring of hair are permitted as long as the

highlights and color are a natural hair color and the highlights

blend with the hair color.

• No facial hair is permitted. Boys should be clean-shaven at all

times. Sideburns may not extend below the earlobe.

• Hats may not be worn during the school day.

• Students are not permitted to wear pants with the hems torn or

ripped.

Dress Code for Physical Education

All students in grades 7-8 are required to dress out for their Athletics or

PE classes. Students in grades 5-6 stay in school uniform for PE.