An Introduction

Welcome to Bob Jones Academy, parents and students!

We are so glad that God has allowed us to partner with your family this year. Thank you for entrusting us with your most valuable treasure – your children. We do not take lightly the command God has given fathers to bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. In partnering with your family, we are committed to love, communicate with, and care for your child in your place for seven hours each day. What a privilege and what a responsibility we have.

I think everyone is eager for a return to some normalcy after a year of COVID talk, masks, and pandemic news. God knows exactly what we will face this next school year and will give us the grace, courage, and strength to do the right thing. His daily bread is sufficient and all we need for this life. We will continue to communicate with you as a family through each turn in the road on this journey. So don’t worry; we are going to have a great year together.

This handbook has been revised and condensed to make it more useful and accessible to your family. We appreciate your willingness to submit to our policies and procedures. We have tried our best to set policies that take into account both the individual student experience as well as the operational efficiencies of an academic institution. If you have any questions or concerns about what you find here, please come talk to me or someone at the school. We would be happy to explain the reason behind the policy and to hear your perspectives.

Although we prayerfully consider biblical principles in every decision, this handbook itself is not scripture nor a path to spiritual maturity. There are many good ways to organize and operate a Christian school and we have attempted to explain one of those ways here in this handbook.

Our theme for this year comes from Ephesians 4:1-3 where we are challenged by God to walk worthy of the calling with which we have been called. What an amazing thought to meditate on, and one which will affect all our relationships. Thank you for your love and support for us. We look forward to partnering with your family for a great school year!

For all the BJA team,
Dr. Abels

Our Core Identity

A Brief History
Having developed a burden for Christian education, evangelist Bob Jones Sr. founded Bob Jones College and Bob Jones Academy in 1927 in Lynn Haven, Florida. BJA began with 47 high school students and shared many resources with the college.

Along with the college, BJA moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, in 1933, and then—with what was to become Bob Jones University—to Greenville, South Carolina, in 1947. The University established a junior high in 1952 under the leadership of Bob Jones Jr. and an elementary school in the 1970s under the direction of Bob Jones III.

In 2011 under Dr. Stephen Jones, the child development center, elementary school, junior high (renamed the middle school), and high school were consolidated into one school using the name Bob Jones Academy.

Statement of Faith and Key Position Statements
BJA is a distinctly conservative Christian school. As the pre-college program of Bob Jones University, BJA is not part of a particular church or denomination. This does not minimize, however, the importance we place on the church in the life of the believer or the importance of fundamental doctrines of the faith.

Bob Jones Academy affirms and teaches the inspiration of the Bible (both the Old and the New Testaments); the creation of man by the direct act of God; the incarnation and virgin birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; His identification as the Son of God; His vicarious atonement for the sins of mankind by the shedding of His blood on the cross; the resurrection of His body from the tomb; His power to save men from sin; the new birth through the regeneration by the Holy Spirit; and the gift of eternal life by the grace of God.

Our statement of faith above highlights the core truths that we affirm as a school. Bob Jones Academy/Bob Jones University position statements on current issues are available here and frame how we set policy and operate.

Mission Statement

Bob Jones Academy exists to assist like-minded Christian parents in challenging students to love Jesus Christ, to embrace God’s truth, to exercise integrity, to pursue excellence, and to serve others.

Philosophy of Christian Education

Our philosophy of education—and our foundation for all of life—starts with the revealed, inerrant Word of God. From it we derive principles for our internal motives and individual conduct as well as the institutional practices that define our school culture. We are committed to the six areas of focus listed below as prioritized elements of the Christian education you can expect at Bob Jones Academy. These areas are subsumed under our statement of faith and the need for all to recognize their own sinfulness and to come to salvation available only through the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

1. Relationship with the home

We believe God holds parents responsible for educating their children to love God (Deut. 6:4-9) and others (Matt. 22:39). Partnering with parents, BJA assists like-minded families in this training. A strong school-to-parent relationship is foundational to all we hope to accomplish in the lives of our students and influences our instruction, communication, and discipline.

2. Relationship with the church

The New Testament teaches that the local church is indispensable to the spiritual growth and health of every genuine Christian (1 Pet. 1:22–2:3). This means that a true partnership of BJA with parents involves that family being regularly involved in a local church, and our relationship with school families recognizes this scriptural expectation. Practically, we reduce homework load on Wednesday nights because of the evening service of many Bible-believing churches. To avoid competition for a family’s time on weekends, we do not attempt to replicate common youth group activities or ministries with our students. When a student needs formal counseling, we work with parents to pursue help and guidance from the leadership of their local church.

3. Christian Character Training

We believe the Holy Spirit can use education based on the foundation of Scripture to help a student to know God personally and then to fulfill God’s eternal purpose for his life. That inner character that a child develops is known by God and matters more than any acclaim gained in this life. Through God’s power and Word He gives all we need for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3-4).

4. Student Self-Discipline

We believe that a Christian education acknowledges man’s innate sin nature, the necessity of the new birth through faith in Christ, and the need for continual renewing of the mind (Rom. 12:1–2). The act of denying oneself to serve God and others is not natural and must be accomplished by God’s Spirit working in the heart (mind, will and emotions). Developing self-discipline is a vital part of our educational experience at every grade level.

5. Academics

Our rigorous and high-quality core academic program is supplemented by a variety of related arts (K3–grade 5) and elective opportunities (grades 6–12). While grades are important and necessary, the final measure of success is not an academic grade received, nor how one student’s report card compares to that of another student. We believe that our students, regardless of ability, should do their academic work diligently as unto the Lord (Eccl. 9:10, Col. 3:23), ultimately pursuing an understanding of truth because it is God’s truth.

6. Extracurricular Activities

We believe that the academic program at BJA is enhanced by the balanced inclusion of extracurricular experiences. These activities provide opportunities for students to discover and develop God-given talents as well as to practice leadership and to develop character for His glory (Phil. 4:11-13, 1 Pet. 4:10-11).

Parental Support and Cooperation Agreement
Our mission statement says that BJA exists to assist parents in aspects of the training of their children. The partnership of home and school can be successful only to the degree that there is mutual understanding and cooperation in carrying out school policies.

We understand that your personal positions and preferences may differ from BJA policies. In choosing to partner with us in the education of your child we ask that you support the teachers and administration, including helping your child abide by and graciously respond to school policies and decisions. We, too, will attempt to work with you in this process of normal growth and development of your child by, as needed, giving your child reminders, clarifications, or, on occasion, corrections.

BJA’s administration reserves the right to final interpretation of policy. We welcome the opportunity to explain our policies to you on an individual basis and urge you to get clarification as needed. We reserve the right, though we will make every effort to avoid exercising it, to dismiss a student if the administration determines that there is a lack of support or cooperation by the student or parent.

We expect a parent in each family as well as each student in grades 9–12 to read this handbook in its entirety before online check-in and to complete a Cooperation Agreement during the check-in process (K3–grade 12). You can find a copy of the Cooperation Agreement later in this handbook. This agreement is your indication that you understand and will support the policies found in this Parent-Student Handbook.

Policies

Academics

Curriculum
BJA operates a traditional educational program using teacher-centered instruction. Classes include Bible, English, history, math, phonics-based reading, science, and other traditionally taught classes. The high school’s college-preparatory program is designed to prepare students for competitive collegiate work.

Homework
Homework contributes to a student’s learning through further reinforcement, application, and development of material presented in class.

When an average student is attentive and diligent during class and concentrates well while doing homework, a typical night’s homework should be able to be finished in: K5—15 minutes, Grades 1 and 2—30 minutes, Grade 3—45 minutes, Grades 4 and 5—60 minutes, Grades 6 through 8—90 minutes, Grades 9 through 12—2 to 2.5 hours (more for dual credit or other more advanced courses). If your find that your child spends excessive time on homework, please alert your child’s teacher or the appropriate administrator so that we can work together to identify and resolve any underlying issues.

Report Cards
Report cards are calculated and posted in Sycamore in October, December, March, and May. Elementary report cards include a final grade for each quarter. Middle and high school report cards include a midterm report and a final grade at the end of each semester. Middle school courses also receive a final grade for the year. High school transcripts are calculated and posted at the end of each semester and include grades from a student’s dual credit courses.

Grading Scale and High School GPA Calculation
The following percentage values are equivalent to the letter grades used in most classes. Some high school teachers may use a wider scale to determine letter grades.

A             90–100    Excellent
B             80–89      Above average
C             70–79       Average
D             60–69      Unsatisfactory
F              0–59        No credit given
I                                 Incomplete
P                                Passed

Details about quality points assigned as well as about GPA calculation are available on our website.

Assessment for the early grades includes S (Satisfactory), U (Unsatisfactory), and N (Needs improvement); and for K3–K5 only M (Mastered appropriately), and P (Making progress).

Graduation Requirements
BJA’s graduation requirements meet or exceed the requirements of the South Carolina Department of Education for public high school students to graduate with a South Carolina high school diploma. To earn a BJA diploma, a student must

• Earn 24 high school credits:
  • English—4 credits (English 9–12)
  • Math—4 credits (includes Algebra I and Geometry)
  • Science—3 credits (includes 1 physical and 1 biological science)
  • Social studies—3 credits (includes 1 U.S. History, .5 Government, .5 Economics)
  • Foreign language*—1 credit
  • Computer science (includes Keyboarding)—1 credit
  • Physical education—1 credit
  • Electives**—7 credits
    *BJA recommends that a college-bound student earn 2 credits in a foreign language.
    **Includes Bible courses, which are required each semester a student is enrolled in BJA. Also includes dual enrollment opportunities at BJU—see the website or academic advisor for qualification requirements and available courses.
• Be a full-time student at BJA for his or her final two semesters.

Seniors earning a BJA diploma are required to attend the senior trip and graduation. Tuition and fees are to be paid in full before graduation.

BJA recommends that students take a college entrance exam before graduation. In addition to being a step in applying for college, it allows the student to be considered for a variety of scholarships, awards, and honors at both the college and precollege level.

Integrity
Integrity is a key aspect of Christlike character. Students exhibit academic integrity by being truthful about their own academic work.

We take seriously any form of deception including cheating, plagiarism, inappropriate collaboration, or failing to report known violations in these areas. These behaviors destroy trust and violate God’s Word.

• Cheating: acting dishonestly or unfairly on graded work, including copying from another student’s test or assignment, giving or using notes when not allowed, discussing or sharing quiz/test questions or answers among students who have or have not already taken the quiz/test, changing answers after the test or assignment has been completed/graded, or parents or students using teacher editions/test banks for textbooks in classroom use
• Plagiarism: turning in work the student did not create or write independently; using someone else’s ideas, information, or words without giving credit to the source
• Inappropriate collaboration: Individual teachers and individual assignments will have different expectations about collaboration—how much students can work with others or give/receive help on a task. It is the student's responsibility to fully understand and follow the teacher's instructions about collaboration. Inappropriate collaboration may be handled as cheating or plagiarism. If there is any question whether collaboration is allowed, please check with the teacher before collaborating.

Attendance

Consistent attendance is critical to learning, and students are expected to arrive on time and remain at school throughout the day.

School Hours
The regular school day begins at 8 a.m. Students enrolled in the K3–K5 half-day program are dismissed at 11:45 a.m. Students in K3–grade 5 are dismissed at 2:45 p.m., and those in grades 6–12 are dismissed at 3:10 p.m.

• Morning drop-off
  • Students in grades K3–8 may be dropped off at school once teacher supervision is available, which is at 7:15 a.m. Initially they should go to the designated drop-off area (see School Hours & Contact below). Beginning at 7:30 (K3–grade 5) or 7:45 (grades 6–8) students should go to their own classrooms.
  • High school students may enter the Academy Main or the Markham Center beginning at 7:15 a.m. After 7:40 a.m. they may enter the other high school buildings. For student safety, high school students should be dropped off only from vehicles which are at the curb (not on the stadium side of the street) or in the Print Shop parking lot (the lot by the stadium and Activity Center).
• Afternoon pick-up: Students in K3–grade 8 who are not picked up during car line or shortly after an official after-school activity ends are to report to late stay. Late stay is available until 5:30 p.m. at an hourly rate to cover the cost of supervision. High school students who are still at school after 5 p.m. may be in front of the Academy Main only (or in Markham Center until 5:30 p.m.)
  • K3–Grade 5 Car tags: For student safety, parents are given car tags to display when picking up an elementary child after school or from late stay. If someone without a car tag will pick up a student on a particular day, please notify the office in writing and let the person know that he or she will need to provide photo identification for pickup.
  • Grades 1–8 Walking home: With a parent’s written permission, students may walk home to the immediate neighborhood or to their parent’s office on campus. Forms are available at the office. Students may not be anywhere on campus except with their own parent.
  • Grades 6–8: Until 3:25 p.m. students may be picked up at the Applied Studies Building or the Middle School. After 3:25 p.m. students are to be at Late Stay (in the Middle School) until their parent arrives. For student safety students should not cross car line or a street without help of an adult or crossing guard.
• 6–12 schedule:

1st hour 8–8:50 a.m.
2nd hour 9–9:50 a.m.
3rd hour 10–10:50 a.m.
4th hour (middle school) 11–11:50 a.m.
4th hour (high school) Bible days 11–11:40 a.m., chapel days 11–11:35 a.m.
5th hour 12:30–1:20 p.m.
6th hour 1:25–2:15 p.m. (For the middle school Monday and Friday is chapel.)
7th hour 2:20–3:10 p.m.

• 9–12 Free hours: When a student’s semester schedule includes a class period without a class assigned to it, we call that a “free hour.” This can occur when a student has a dual credit class on MWF, resulting in free hours during that class period on TTh. This can also occur when a student does not have a class scheduled during a particular class hour for the semester. Students in grades 11–12 who have a free hour may use the Markham Center, sit on the benches in the Quadrangle, or use university facilities such as the library. Permission from the office is required to go to the elementary or middle school. Students may not use free hours or lunch to run errands off campus. In the rare situations where a student in grades 9 or 10 has a free hour, the student reports to a supervised location, the Markham Center, as for a regular class.
• 9–12 Special events: During Bible Conference, students attend all daytime services—please do not schedule medical appointments or request pre-approved absences during service times. All students are to attend Academy Graduation, and students in grades 11–12 are to attend the Junior-Senior banquet (see BJA’s current tuition and fees for the banquet fee). Students may attend the University’s Concert, Opera & Drama Series at no charge.

Absences
BJA recognizes two types of excused absences: medical/emergency and preapproved.

• Medical/emergency absences: medical or dental appointments, illness, and emergencies (car accident, injury, or a death in the immediate family)
  • Students need to stay home if they have any of the following symptoms: fever of 100 degrees or higher, vomiting, frequent diarrhea, frequent cough, widespread rash, earache, or severe headache. Students should be symptom-free (including being fever-free without fever-reducing medicine) for at least 24 hours before returning to school. For detailed information about when to keep a student out of school and when a student may return after an illness, see the chart below.
  • If a student will miss school due to illness, a parent should contact the office in the morning. A student who misses classes due to illness may not participate in extracurricular activities that day.
  • In the case of a doctor’s appointment, a parent should notify the office in advance, and the student should check out when leaving and back in upon return to school.
• Preapproved absences: Out-of-town trips with a student’s own parent, out-of-town activities with his or her own church youth group, educational opportunities (with administrative approval), court proceedings, or other special circumstances (with administrative approval)
  • A parent should obtain approval from the administration before making arrangements for an event that requires a student to be absent from school and at least one week before the event. Failure to seek administrative approval may result in an unapproved absence.
  • Students in grades 6–12 use a preapproved absence form to inform teachers of the absence ahead of time. Additional details and the form are at the student’s respective school office. Preapproved absences should not be requested during the last week of school either semester.
• Summer school attendance: Because the high school’s summer school condenses a full year’s coursework for one subject into a six-week period, summer school students attend every day except in the case of illness.
• K3–5 Tardies: Three tardies are considered an absence.
• 6–12 Unexcused absences and lates: Unexcused absences incur discipline points, including significant penalties if intentional. Students are to be in the room before the bell rings and if late are expected to join class for the remaining time. Students who miss more than 10 minutes will be counted absent.
• Dual credit courses: BJU’s attendance policies apply to University classes taken by Academy students.
• Excessive absences: For students in K5 and above, after a fifth absence in a semester, students may be absent only for medical reasons or emergencies (medical/dental appointments, illness, car accident, injury or death in the immediate family), and all absences related to illness are to be followed with a note from a medical doctor. BJA’s administration will review situations involving an extended illness.

Inclement Weather/School Closure
Because Greenville County Schools district covers a region with a wide variety of terrains, BJA does not necessarily close when GCS close. BJA asks parents to assess inclement weather conditions in their own areas and determine if it is safe to travel—whether BJA or GCS closed or remained open.

In case of inclement weather, BJA will alert families through SchoolCast, a rapid-alert messaging system. Please ensure that your phone and email information is current in SchoolCast. BJA also uses television stations (WYFF 4 and Fox Carolina 21) and BJA’s Facebook page to announce a closing or delay.

Attire

We want BJA to be an environment where young people can develop Christ-like habits, focus on academics, and prepare for productive lives as adults. In the area of appearance, this desire is expressed through an emphasis on neatness, appropriateness, and modesty.

School Uniforms
With these three goals in mind, we have specific expectations and limitations on student attire. When on campus for school as well as when on field trips, students should be dressed in a logoed school uniform purchased through our exclusive provider, Lands’ End. To ensure you are ordering the correct items for your child’s grade, be sure to start at the link on our website or by using school number 900162611 at the Lands’ End website. Note that certain garments and colors are options for certain grade levels only (e.g., shorts and skorts for K3–grade 5; more colors available for grades 6–12).

• Logoed top or dress
  • A non-uniform shirt may be worn under a uniform shirt or dress.
    • K3–grade 5: solid navy, white, or light blue
    • Grades 6–12: any solid color
  • For young men the shirt is to be tucked in except for those polos that have even hems.
• Logoed lower half (K3–K5: uniform item not required)
  • Pants: long enough to cover the ankle
  • Shorts/skorts (through grade 5), skirts: come at least to the knee when standing, walking or sitting
  • Belts
    • Grades 1–5: wear with shorts or pants
    • Grades 6–12 (young men): wear when a shirt is tucked in
• Shoes and socks
  • K3–grade 5 (for safety’s sake on the playground/other activities): shoes should have backs or back straps; tennis shoes for physical education classes; socks should be worn
  • Grades 6–12
    • Young ladies: no flip flops or shower shoes
    • Young men: no flip-flops or sandals; socks should be worn
• Outerwear
  • K3–grade 5: Uniform sweaters, fleece pullovers and vests may be worn in class; other jackets, vests, sweaters, hoodies and outerwear are not worn in class.
  • Grades 6–12: Non-uniform sweaters, jackets, hoodies, etc., may be worn over a uniform top.
• Accessorizing: Students are welcome to accessorize in ways that avoid distraction or drawing undo attention to oneself.
  • Hats: appropriate outside the buildings (except for specific occasions and at athletic events)
  • Young men: no earrings or necklaces. Finger rings and wristbands may be worn by young men in grades 6–12.
  • Young ladies: may wear one or two sets of earrings in their ears
  • Body piercings (except as noted above) and temporary/permanent tattoos/body drawings are not appropriate.
  • Leggings may be worn under skirts or PE shorts.
• Physical education
  • Grades 1–3 (young ladies): wear uniform skorts or pants on PE class days
  • Grades 4–5: may change into uniform shorts (or non-uniform athletic pants) and t-shirt for PE class; girls not changing into uniform PE attire wear uniform skorts or pants
  • Grades 6–12: wear uniform t-shirt and shorts that are ordered in class (optional: non-uniform black athletic pants). Students in grades 9–12 who have PE first or last hour may wear their PE attire to or from school, being dropped off/picked up in front of the gym or Brown building, and not going to the Quadrangle.
• School Spirit Days (Fridays): may wear BJA-issued/purchased tops with uniform lower half

Students not in uniform may not attend class. Missed days or class periods are considered unexcused absences.

Dress for After-Class Activities on Campus
We encourage all our families to come out and support the athletic teams for games and competitions on campus. We recognize that your child is under your auspices as a parent during these events and kindly ask for your cooperation in helping your child follow the general pattern and spirit of our dress requirements for school events. We view these as special opportunities to leverage BJA’s testimony and interactions with our competitors, community, and officials for the sake of Gospel and God’s glory.

• Young ladies
  • Tops: high enough and long enough to be modest (e.g., no cleavage or midriff showing), sleeved
  • Lower half (skirts, jeans, etc.): touch the knee or below when standing, walking or sitting
    • For official athletic practices as well as when using fitness or athletic facilities on campus, athletic shorts that approach the knee while being not shorter than 2 inches above it may be worn.
  • All garments: loose-fitting
• Young men
  • Tops: t-shirts or sleeved shirt
  • Pants (athletic pants, jeans, etc.): fit properly (not oversized, low-riding, or tight)
    • For official athletic practices as well as when using fitness or athletic facilities on campus, athletic shorts that approach the knee while being not shorter than 2 inches above it may be worn.

For athletic activities, student spectators may use the gym locker room to change into after-class attire. Athletes changing for practices and games will have priority.

Athletes coming from their practice or game may remain in practice/uniform shorts as spectators for athletic events.

Fine Arts Events/Formal Occasions
Participants/performers wear an outfit as instructed by the director of the event. This may be more formal, as appropriate for this type of event.

For formal fine arts events, we encourage audience members to show deference to the formality of the event by being more dressed up, though students are also welcome to wear school uniforms.

For the Junior-Senior Banquet and graduation, a dress check for the young ladies who participate is held well in advance of the event to verify the appropriateness of their dresses.

For BJA’s graduation, students who attend wear regular school uniform attire.

Hair Guidelines
Hair should be neat and professional.

• Appear natural in color
• Young ladies: in a distinctly feminine style
• Young men:
  • In a distinctly masculine style
  • Off the collar, ears, and eyebrows
  • Straight/wavy hair should be blended in length; curly hair should not be more than three inches off the scalp.
  • Sideburns not below the lower opening of the ear
  • Clean shaven

Attire should be clean, in good condition, and sized to fit.

We reserve the right to approve any alteration or adjustment made on a uniform garment as well as to determine the appropriateness of any non-uniform garment, accessory, hair style/cut, etc.

Discipline

Our discipline system is based on the functions of Scripture taught in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, so that the believer is “fully equipped for every good work.” We understand that children will need loving correction and communication in a school as part of their educational growth. Our desire is that our method and manner of discipline will always communicate God’s love and character. In this regard, we are partnering with you as parents to nurture your children toward a heart for the Lord. We will communicate with you as a parent as is appropriate to the age, but always in a spirit of partnership and support. We have no intention of replacing your role as parents, but on the contrary, ask for and treasure your support, communication, and involvement.

BJA parents have a wide variety of preferences for entertainment, and we heartily support each parent’s liberty to decide before the Lord as the conscience allows. At school, we will guide the conversations of our students regarding movies, video games, and other entertainment to focus on blameless, harmless, and edifying topics. For high school students, we intentionally teach critical thinking and a biblical framework for making entertainment and other life choices. If you have any specific concerns or questions, please talk to your child’s teacher or an administrator.

K3–Grade 5
Teachers are given the liberty to design and enforce classroom expectations consistent with the general policies of the school. The teacher contacts parents directly about minor situations. Loss of privileges may include, for example, partial loss of participation in non-academic activities. In any major situation, such as cheating or harm to people or property, an administrator will be involved and will contact parents. Correction can include probation or expulsion.

To comply with the South Carolina Department of Social Services regulations, BJA requires that parents of K3 and K4 students annually complete a statement of cooperation with the school’s discipline policies.

Grades 6–12
BJA’s disciplinary system begins with discipline points for areas that relate primarily to personal discipline.

Teachers or staff members normally clarify the student’s understanding of the expectation and/or issue a warning for minor offenses before issuing discipline points. They also communicate with parents about the discipline points that they issue.

An escalating system of correction identifies and addresses patterns of irresponsibility as well as offenses involving respect for others, integrity, and purity. The system escalates from higher numbers of discipline points to conduct warning to ineligibility to probation to expulsion. These types of violations are referred to an assistant principal who will assess the situation, work with the student for the purpose of growth, assign consequences and communicate with parents.

• Conduct warning: results from an accumulation of 50 discipline points—an alert to a pattern of irresponsibility—or an issue of respect, integrity, or purity; provides a chance to reflect, change, and grow.
• Ineligibility: results from two conduct warnings or from certain offenses. The student becomes ineligible to participate in interscholastic sports or other competition and may not run, be selected for, or continue to hold an office or position of honor. A student who becomes ineligible two consecutive semesters will be on probation the following semester. A student may not enroll in summer school if he will be on probation the following semester.
• Probation: results from three conduct warnings, from becoming ineligible two consecutive semesters, or from a significant lapse in moral judgment. A student who is on probation two consecutive semesters is denied reenrollment for one semester. A student who withdraws for any reason while on probation will return on probation.
• Expulsion: results from four conduct warnings or from offenses such as major moral failure (including immorality, sensual behavior, use of alcohol or drugs), stealing or shoplifting, possession of a weapon, committing a crime or not disclosing an arrest occurring before or during enrollment, or encouraging or aiding another student in an action that results in expulsion. An expelled student may not return to BJA for one full semester. A student expelled twice may not reenroll in the Academy. Students who have been expelled from BJA are not permitted to return to campus or participate in BJA activities without permission from an administrator.

The administration has the discretion to issue discipline points in proportion to the circumstances surrounding the infraction. A student may receive disciplinary correction, including expulsion, for grievous offenses, such as immorality, that come to light from a previous semester or break. Below are selected discipline issues and associated consequences. Repeated violations carry heavier consequences.

Students begin each new semester with no discipline points.

Minor violations: teacher issued

• Tardy (fewer than 10 minutes late): 2 discipline points
• Class/hall/cafeteria disturbance: 5 discipline points
• Did not check in/out at the office: 5 discipline points
• Gum/food/drink in restricted location: 5 discipline points
• Dress code or hair violation: 10 discipline points

Major violations: referred to an assistant principal

• Absence (unexcused): 10–25 discipline points
• Euphemism: 25 discipline points
• Cheating¹: 25 discipline points or conduct warning
• Bullying/threats²: Conduct warning to expulsion
• Inappropriate language³: Conduct warning
• Untruthfulness: Conduct warning
• Use of tobacco products/vaping: Ineligibility or probation
• Moral indiscretion: Probation or expulsion
• Alcohol/drugs: Expulsion
  ¹Cheating results in academic and/or disciplinary penalties; cheating on a high school final exam may result in denial of reenrollment.
  ²Includes actions on or off campus or online settings
  ³Includes inappropriate, repeated, or unwanted conversations about sexual topics.

Technology

While technology changes rapidly, our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). The Gospel is as powerful and essential today as it was before the Internet. BJA encourages students to think about leveraging technology for the Kingdom and to apply a strong biblical worldview in all aspects of their lives, including their use of technology.

In a public setting like a school, it is necessary to have guidelines for technology use. A student is responsible for all content both he or she and others post on his or her social media accounts, blogs, or any other internet site, as if it were spoken or displayed at school.

Personal Communication Devices (cell phones, smartphones, smart watches, etc.)

• K3–grade 5: Device should be given to the classroom teacher or left in the office until the child is leaving school for the day. Phone calls may be made from the school office.
• Grades 6–8: Devices are to be stored in the student’s locker (in the student’s backpack during late stay); with permission may be used in the school office. Smart watches must be in airplane mode and may be used as timepieces only.
• Grades 9–12: Devices may be carried by the student and may be used before 8 a.m., after 3:10 p.m., during the student’s scheduled lunch hour, and at the office with permission from a teacher or staff member. During other times devices must be off or on airplane mode. During school hours (including lunch), devices may not be used to take pictures, watch/record videos, or play video games.
• Grades 6–12 penalties for misuse: If a student misuses a personal communication device, the student will surrender the device and be sent to the school office to meet with an administrator. The school office will hold the device until a parent meets with an administrator. In addition, the student will lose the privilege to have a device on school premises from 8 a.m. until 3:10 p.m.; a fine may also be posted to the student’s school account.
  • 1st offense—warning
  • 2nd offense—two-week loss of privileges; $25 fine
  • 3rd offense—one-month loss of privileges; $25 fine
  • 4th offense—loss of privileges for the remainder of the semester; $25 fine

Email, Network, and Google Classroom Accounts (grades 6–12)
Students ages 13 and above receive school email, campus network, and Google Classroom accounts. Parents of students who are under 13 give their permission before accounts are created for the student. Students in grades 9–12 also receive a school-issued laptop.

Email should be checked each school day as many teachers send valuable information via student email—reminders about upcoming quizzes and tests, study guides, grade updates, etc. BJA network username and passwords should not be shared with anyone except parents (or staff assisting in accessing a locked account).

Instructions for requesting technical help (e.g., forgotten password, locked account) are located at www.bobjonesacademy.net/resources. Students need to know their student ID number to prove their identity when requesting support.

Love for God and others should motivate students’ appropriate use of technology (Matt. 22:37–40). It should be used to edify (Col. 4:6; Eph. 5:19–21, 29) and only used in God-honoring ways (Eph. 5:1–6). This includes

• responsibly caring for equipment,
• obeying copyright laws, license agreements, etc. on software and files on the computer,
• not modifying the device or attempting to “hack” or bypass the network or filter,
• not accessing, storing, or disseminating any inappropriate material (includes, but is not limited to, any slanderous, sensual, worldly, sacrilegious or obscene content).

In every area of technology Christians must be alert for evil activity (1 Pet. 5:8) and not naïve about its dangers (Prov. 27:12). BJA assists students in this endeavor by providing accountability and protection on the BJA network. This includes an active filtering system that catalogs the sites visited as well as time on each site. Students who accidentally access inappropriate content should immediately contact a teacher.

A student who willingly disregards technology guidelines will face disciplinary consequences which include, but are not limited to, a warning, restricted use of the electronic device, reimbursement of part or all of the purchase price of the school-owned equipment, and discipline points. In addition, violations of copyright laws, license agreements, etc., on images, software, audio files or documents can lead to federal prosecution.

Information and Procedures

Athletic Events

Fans and players show respect for the officials, competitors, and other fans, as a means of displaying a love for God and others in all that is communicated on and off the field or court.

• Students in K3–grade 8 who are attending academy or university games should be supervised by an adult or by a sibling who is at least 16 years old.
• Students in grades 9–12 may use the Academy Gym during scheduled classes and for other official activities. They may be in the Davis Field House during scheduled times and when attending or competing in a scheduled athletic event.

Communication Tools

In addition to pre-planned and as-needed face-to-face meetings, these tools support communication with families.

• BJA website: Our website includes links to Sycamore, a school calendar, and a wide variety of other important resources for our families. Faculty and staff photos and email addresses are also available from the website.
• Sycamore: Sycamore is our school management system and includes a portal for families as well as for students in grades 6–12. On Sycamore you can find your student’s current grades, report cards, and more. See the Resources page on our website for details about using Sycamore. BJA’s School ID is 2947. You can retrieve a forgotten username and/or password from Sycamore’s login page or by contacting a school office.
• mySchoolCast.com: SchoolCast is our rapid alert messaging system. After you’re given initial access information, you enter your desired contact information into SchoolCast. We announce and perform a test at the beginning of each semester so you can verify that you’re getting contacted the way you’d like to be contacted when we use the system. For a forgotten username, contact the central office. You can retrieve a forgotten password at the login page.
• BJA’s weekly school email: During the school year we email a weekly newsletter to families as well as to students in grades 6–12. The newsletter highlights important current information and upcoming events as well as shares recent news.
• Friday Folders (K3–5): The Friday Folder includes the elementary student’s graded assignments for the week as well as other pertinent information. Party invitations may also be included—this helps families in communication with others in the child’s class while also protecting privacy. Teachers also email parents a weekly classroom newsletter.

Class Parties/Field Trips (K3–5)

Each elementary classroom holds various parties throughout the year. Parents may send treats in honor of a child’s birthday—please notify the teacher before sending the treats. Parent-sponsored/led school parties/events should be preapproved by the classroom teacher or an administrator.

Parents are invited to volunteer to be chaperons for elementary field trips. Classroom teachers coordinate and determine responsibilities of parent chaperons. At least a week before the trip, parents selected to be chaperons must complete volunteer paperwork which includes a background check. Only parents selected as official chaperons may attend.

Eligibility for Elected Offices/Positions of Honor/Athletics (6-12)

Students are eligible to run for office in a school organization or hold a position of honor (cheerleader, interscholastic sports, etc.) if they:

• Maintain acceptable grades—for students in grades 6–8, a C average or above; for students in grades 9–12, a GPA of 2.3 or above; do not have an F in Bible
• Maintain a positive Christian testimony, including not being restricted by disciplinary guidelines.

Facilities

As part of good stewardship, students are to treat buildings and equipment with care. For example:

• Students should use the sidewalks or gravel paths, avoiding taking short-cuts across the grass.
• Gum may not be chewed in any class, chapel, or program.
• Students may have water in spill-proof containers for drinking in class. Other beverages should be limited to designated lunch and snack times and areas.

Flag Raising (9-12)

Students meet in the Quadrangle on designated days—weather permitting—to participate in a flag-raising ceremony. During the ceremony as well as any other time the flag is being raised or lowered, each student should stop and give respectful attention to the process. During the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States or the singing of the national anthem, international students may show respectful attention rather than participating as do U.S. citizens.

Lockers/Book Bags (6-12)

Bookbags are recommended and may be carried into most classrooms. Students in grades 6–8 will be assigned a locker, and students in grades 9–12 may request one. Lockers/combinations should not be shared with other students. Lockers must be kept clean. Only magnets may be used to hang items inside the lockers, and nothing should be put on the exterior of the locker.

Lunch/Lunchtime Visitors

BJA’s K3 and K4 programs must comply with certain regulations of South Carolina’s Department of Social Services (DSS). Regulations stipulate, “Round, firm foods shall not be offered to children younger than four years old. Examples of such foods include hot dogs, grapes, hard candy, nuts, peanuts, and popcorn. Hot dogs may be served if cut lengthwise and quartered; grapes may be served if cut in halves.” Please plan accordingly when preparing the lunch or snack of a K3 or K4 student, regardless of the student’s birth date.

• K3–grade 8: Hot lunches are available through Aramark, BJU’s food service provider. See BJA’s website for details about the ordering and payment process. Parents and, with a parent’s written permission, other relatives or friends of a student are welcome to occasionally join the student for the lunch period. The guest should sign in at the office and receive a nametag before meeting the student. For K3–grade 5, guests sit with the student at a designated guest table in the cafeteria. For grades 6–8, please call ahead to make arrangements.
• Grades 9–12: Students may bring a lunch to eat in the Markham Center, Academy Auditorium, or Quadrangle; or may purchase lunch and eat at the dining common, The Den, Culinary Arts, or the Markham Center/Quadrangle. Students may not be in unsupervised locations during lunch, such as the Activity Center, athletic fields, or the tables outside the cleaners. Parents, grandparents, pastors, and youth pastors are welcome to eat with their students in the Quadrangle after signing in at the office and receiving a nametag. Students may eat with other visitors at the dining common or The Den. With a parent’s written permission, a student may go off campus for lunch with a grandparent, pastor, or youth pastor or may walk home for lunch. The student should check out and check back in at the office.

Lost and Found

All a student’s personal property should be labeled. Lost and found items are placed in the following locations: Primary Center office, Elementary Main building back hallway, middle school office, high school Markham Center, and Academy Gym.

Music

All musical choices used while on campus or at any school-related event (in a vehicle, presentation, etc.) are to be intentionally conservative in style and are to avoid the markers of our current corrupt culture which often finds its musical expression in rock, pop, jazz, country, rap, or hip-hop.

Clapping after sacred music numbers is acceptable as it affirms the message and shows appreciation for the messenger.

Physical Contact

Students are to avoid prolonged or inappropriate physical contact with students of either sex. Abusive, sensual, or harassing behavior of any form will not be tolerated and should be reported to an adult immediately. We will be quick to give the benefit of the doubt but ask that students follow the spirit of scripture to be blameless and harmless children of God in a crooked and perverse world.

Prohibited Items

Students in K5–grade 5 should not bring items such as the following to school: gum; live animals; collector items including cards; electronic and gaming devices; dangerous objects or real or toy weapon (knives, lighters, lasers, airsoft guns, etc.) BJA provides toys, reading material, and sports equipment so these items should not be brought to school.

Students in grades 6–12 should not bring items such as the following to school: earbuds (except as required for class or with administrative permission); musical instruments (except for music class/lessons or with administrative permission); skates, boards, scooters, etc.; dangerous objects or real or toy weapon (knives, lighters, lasers, airsoft guns, etc.)

Solicitation/Fundraising/New Groups

For the sake of our families, no one may survey or sell to the academy community on school grounds. For items such as invitation posters for non-Academy activities, please contact an administrator for permission. Fundraising efforts and new student groups should first be authorized by the administration.

Speaking for the Academy

We ask that students, parents, and employees avoid speaking for the Academy on social media and that they not release information or grant interviews to the news media without first checking with school administrator or BJU’s public relations office.

Textbooks/School-Issued Computers/ID Cards

Textbooks, workbooks, BJA-issued computers, and other materials provided to students belong to the school. They are turned in at the end of the school year. A charge may be assessed for unusual wear or negligence of BJA property.

Students in grades 9–12 receive an identification card which can be used at BJU locations such as the library as well as for BJA purposes. ID cards may not be loaned or borrowed.

Visitors

We encourage our current families to invite prospective students to visit BJA. Day-long visits are best arranged in advance by contacting the Academy’s admission office. On the day of the visit, the prospective student checks in at the school office and secures a visitor’s tag for the visit. We are unable to accommodate this kind of visit from those who are not prospective students.

For K3–grade 5, observations by parents or guests can be arranged by contacting an administrator in advance.

High school students may request permission at the office to sit with a guest at chapel, rather than sitting in their assigned chapel seat.

Safety and Legal Requirements

Basic Safety Expectations

For the sake of basic safety, students may enter rooms only when and where assigned or permitted. Students should not enter facilities including the parking garage unless they are specifically authorized to enter. They may never be in unsupervised areas of campus. They should use crosswalks, always cooperating with crossing guards. On the BJU campus cars have the right of way, so students should always be careful about crossing the street.

Students in grades 6–12 should avoid sitting on steps, sidewalks, or hallway floors. Parkour and other stunts may not be performed on campus except with specific permission from an administrator.

Child Abuse/Mandatory Reporting

The state of South Carolina requires school personnel to report allegations of suspected child abuse to the Department of Social Services (DSS) when there is cause to suspect physical, sexual, or mental abuse by an adult or another student. While the school is generally expected to communicate with parents regarding the well-being of their child, in a situation of suspected abuse the law requires school personnel to act on behalf of the child and to refrain from contacting parents in advance of making a report to the DSS. School personnel will make such reports in the best interest of the child and do not, once cause to suspect is established, have any legal alternative except to make a report to the DSS for their investigation and review.

Bullying

Bullying is repeated and purposeful abuse of power or position to intimidate or control another person. Bullying may be verbal, physical, or social and may occur in person or online. We recognize that not all unpleasant experiences or interpersonal conflicts are due to bullying and will communicate with parents to coordinate the appropriate instruction and intervention. Nonetheless, bullying, harassment, or unkindness of any kind will not be tolerated at BJA. Depending on its severity, bullying may result in expulsion and referral to appropriate authorities where arrest and/or prosecution is possible. BJA is a ministry of Bob Jones University, so complaints may also be investigated in accordance with the BJU Discrimination and Harassment Grievance Procedures in its compliance with Title IX. The policies and procedures may be found at bju.edu/safety.

Emergency Drills

BJA maintains a complete emergency crisis plan that includes the involvement of BJU’s Office of Public Safety and local law enforcement, fire and medical professionals. The administration regularly conducts drills to prepare students for emergency situations such as fire, severe weather, or a situation requiring a lockdown. Students must remain in the designated locations and will not be released to parents until the lockdown is lifted.

Medication

The school nurse has offices at the elementary buildings. For middle and high school level, the nurse is available to come on an as-needed basis for illness or injuries.

Except as specified below, when medications are needed during the school day, a parent should submit a completed form to the clinic/office along with medication in its original container.

• Non-prescription medications
  • K3–grade 5
    • The elementary clinic stocks Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, Vaseline, hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion and cough drops. Cough drops sent from home must be given to the teacher or kept in the clinic.
    • For other non-prescription medications: submit a Non-Prescription Meds Form and the medication in its original container.
  • Grades 6–8
    • The office is equipped with thermometers. Other medications are not stocked except for Benadryl, which is for emergency use only.
    • For other non-prescription medications, submit a Non-Prescription Meds Form and the medication in its original container.
  • Grades 9–12
    • The office is equipped with thermometers. Other medications are not stocked except for Benadryl, which is for emergency use only.
    • Students carry their own non-prescription medications (for personal use only).
• Prescription medications (K3–grade 12): submit a Prescription Meds Form and medication in its original container
• Inhaler: submit a Prescription Meds Form
  • K3–grade 5: inhaler kept at clinic
  • Grades 6–8: inhaler kept at office; student may pick up the inhaler from the office when going to classes/activities outside the building
  • Grades 9–12: student carries the inhaler; also submit the Self-Administered Meds Form
• Epinephrine injector: submit an Anaphylaxis Form
  • K3–grade 5: injector kept at clinic
  • Grades 6–8: injector kept at office; student may pick up the injector from the office when going to classes/activities outside the building
  • Grades 9–12: student carries the injector; also submit the Self-Administered Meds Form
• Self-administered insulin: Self-Administered Meds Form
  • K3–grade 8: insulin kept at clinic/office
  • Grades 9–12: student carries the insulin
• School trips
  • K3–grade 5: school nurse gives medications and information needed to the teacher going with the students
  • Grades 6–12: parent gives medication, in its original bottle and with a completed school trip medication form, to the trip sponsor

Under federal law, prescription medication can be taken only by the person for whom it is prescribed. Misuse of prescription medication (including giving or receiving it) may result in suspension or expulsion.

School personnel do not administer medication past its expiration date. Parents are responsible to know the expiration date of any medication brought to school and to replace it before its expiration.

School personnel do not administer medication that is not FDA approved. Because strong scents can trigger asthma attacks, headaches, and allergy symptoms, please avoid or minimize use of essential oils or scented lotions on your child.

At school periodic checks for lice significantly decrease their spread. Checks are done by parents who have been trained by the school nurse.

Searches and Legal Violations

We value both the safety and the privacy of our students at BJA. As best we know how, we are committed to represent our parents’ interests while their children are in our care. Accordingly, we communicate at the very earliest any information or concerns we may discover regarding a child’s well-being or safety. Anything beyond initial and cursory investigation will be done with the cooperation and assistance of the parents. As educators, BJA’s administration has a mandatory responsibility to and will alert law enforcement officials of legal violations occurring on or off campus.

Student Drivers

Students who drive to campus must register their vehicles (including motorcycles and bicycles) with BJU’s Office of Public Safety and must follow instructions for parking tag placement as well as appropriate parking locations.

Academy students are to park their vehicles in the Print Shop lot only. This lot is located next to the Alumni Stadium and the Activity Center, across from the Print Shop.

Before and after school students may not loiter in their vehicle or around the parking area. During the school day students should not go to or use the vehicle except with specific permission from the office.

Vehicles should not be borrowed or loaned to other students and may never be used for cross-campus transportation.

Students should check with the high school office about getting the appropriate parking tag or a temporary pass when they drive a different or new vehicle to campus, including a vehicle registered to a parent who is a BJ employee.

Supplemental Student Accident Insurance

The school provides individual supplemental student accident insurance. This insurance functions as a secondary insurance to pay any portion of the unpaid balance for accidents that occur at school. Contact a school office for more information if your student has medical claims due to a school accident.

Cooperation Agreement

Financial obligation
BJA uses FACTS Tuition Management to collect its tuition and fees. Current information about tuition and fees as well as scholarships can be found on the website.

A late fee of $25 is assessed on any unpaid portion of a required payment.

By enrolling a child at Bob Jones Academy, parents agree that if any payment is not made within 25 days of the date due, the school may, at its option, suspend the student and that the school is under no obligation to provide educational services or activities after payment becomes past due, including providing report cards, transcripts, or a diploma.

Withdrawals
In case of withdrawal (leaving after the semester begins), tuition will be prorated to the withdrawal date. Most fees are nonrefundable. At that time all textbooks and any other school property must be returned, including the high school ID card and school-issued laptop. Vehicle registration stickers are to be removed.

Conflict Resolution
Despite our best efforts, misunderstandings or conflicts can occasionally arise. As a matter of policy, we ask that before bringing your concern to administration you first give the teacher involved an opportunity to clarify misunderstandings or correct a fault, believing that their intention is for your child’s good. If your attempts at resolution with a teacher are unsuccessful, then the assistant principal or principal for that grade level should be included. BJA’s head of school is the next level for conflict resolution followed lastly by written appeal to BJU’s Provost through the office of BJA’s head of school.

Support and Partnership
Honoring the Lord by caring for the spiritual, mental, physical, and academic welfare of each student is of primary concern to Bob Jones Academy. Policies in this handbook have been designed to promote student growth, enable efficient operation, and provide safety. Our goal is to deal with each family in a loving, Christ-like manner as partners in the education of your child.

If, after completely reading this handbook and looking over the BJU/BJA position statements, you and your student agree to abide in spirit and practice with the stated requirements and agree with and agree to abide by the BJA/BJU statement on Marriage and Human Sexuality, please indicate this as part of the Online Check-In process.

We thank each family in advance for your prayer support. We look forward to a good school year together.

CDC (Birth through Age 2)

BJA’s child development center is registered with the Department of Social Services (DSS) and complies with its regulations.

Days and Hours of Availability
The CDC is open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., and children should be dropped off at their own classrooms. During the regular Academy school year, early drop off is available from 7:15 until 7:30 a.m. in the lobby.

BJA’s school calendar, available on the website, includes holiday and vacation closings. These include not only common holidays, but also a three-day break at Thanksgiving, a two-week break at Christmas, and a full week for spring break. The CDC remains open though school is not in session during the summer as well as during a three-day closure for the SCACS teacher’s convention in September.

When a parent keeps a child home during the summer, for maternity leave, etc., we hold the child’s spot in class when tuition payments continue to be made. Otherwise, a parent can withdraw the child and later re-apply for an open position (if available).

Arrival and Departure
A parent, legal guardian, or sibling (at least 18 years old) should bring the child into the building. Children are released only to a parent or legal guardian unless the teacher has written notification from a parent or legal guardian of a specific other adult who will pick up the child. If the teacher does not recognize the person picking up a child, photo ID will be required.

At arrival and again at departure, a parent should notify the child’s teacher and clock the child in or out. For safety purposes we ask that younger children be dropped off after and picked up before older children and that children who walk hold an adult’s hand from the vehicle to their classroom door.

Placement and Daily Activities
The child’s age is the primary basis for class placement, but placement can also be affected by DSS regulations regarding room square footage per child. After a child has been in a new classroom for a month, the placement is reevaluated for appropriateness for the child, and placement may be adjusted. The administration makes final decisions regarding promotion and class placement.

The daily schedule is carefully designed to promote development and learning through age-appropriate activities that balance free play and teacher-directed plans. Bible time is included for children 18 months and older. Each classroom posts an individual schedule, and children join in the regular classroom schedule whenever they arrive.

• Instruction Sheets: In infant rooms instruction sheets are completed by parents at drop-off each day and include specifics regarding eating, sleeping, etc. For older children, a permanent chart is compiled based on a parent’s instructions at the beginning of each semester and summer. Changes should be given to the teacher in writing.
• Clothing and Personal Belongings: Children play outside almost every day and children should be dressed appropriately for active, artistic, and outdoor play, including shoes (preferably athletic shoes) and socks once a child begins to walk. A complete extra set of seasonally appropriate clothing, including socks, should be kept in the child’s cubby or backpack.
  • Because removable earrings or barrettes, necklaces, and bracelets present a choking hazard, children under age two may not wear them.
  • If the child needs a comfort or transition item, a parent should talk with the child’s teacher. Classrooms are filled with age-appropriate toys, and personal toys are not needed except on announced “sharing days.”
• Snacks and Meals: For health and safety purposes, DSS regulates practices related to snack and mealtimes. Firm, round foods (such as whole grapes, hard candy, nuts, and popcorn) cannot be offered to children in the CDC. Leftover formula, juice, or food cannot be re-served but may be saved for parents to take home. If left overnight, it must be discarded. Parents may not send food that has already been offered to the child. Breakfast (including a bottle for infants) should be finished before drop-off.
  • Food allergies must be specified in writing on the annual DSS health form and may be updated at any time.
  • Children under one year old are fed according to the schedule requested by the parents. Baby formula, juice, and food served in a bottle or jar should be identified, ready to feed, and packaged for single use. Breastmilk bottles should be labeled with the child’s name and date. Food should be cut in pieces one-quarter inch or smaller.
  • Children one year old and older have morning and afternoon snacks as well as lunch. Food and drink should be labeled with the child’s name, packaged for single use, and located in that child’s room. Each child should also have a water bottle. Food must be cut in pieces one-half inch or smaller—grapes halved, hot dogs cut lengthwise and quartered.
  • A microwave is used to heat food, except for breast milk and formula bottles.
  • See the classroom teacher for a recommendation about bibs.
• Potty Training and Diapers: Due to DSS regulations for handling of cloth diapers and human waste, the CDC permits only disposable diapers. The CDC provides wipes unless a child requires a specific type or brand.
  • When your child is showing signs of interest in potty training, can communicate his or her needs, and you are ready to begin potty training, please let the classroom teacher know. Disposable training pants should be used during the potty-training process and until the child has been accident-free for two weeks.
  • A child needs to be fully trained prior to starting K3.

Information and Procedures

• Accidents/Emergencies: Our staff will do everything reasonable to safeguard the children in our care. Accidents that do happen are documented. Teachers can answer questions about minor scrapes or bruises. In the event of a serious accident or emergency, we will contact Emergency Medical Services and BJU’s Office of Public Safety in addition to the child’s parents. Please let us know right away of any change in phone numbers, place of employment, or home address.
• Biting: For the safety of all the children in our care, we do not permit ongoing biting at the CDC. If a child is bitten, the teacher will clean the site and notify a parent, not sharing the name of the child who bit. We will also contact the parents of the child who bit and work through these corrective strategies:
  • Infants and toddlers: provide appropriate teething activities to comfort and soothe gums
  • Biting due to frustration: redirect to a different activity, give an alternate way to ask for what they want, encourage use of language to express wants and needs
  • Biting twice in one day: at the discretion of the CDC Director the parents may be asked to remove the child for the rest of the day.
  • If all attempts to stop biting fail, we reserve the right to suspend the biting child temporarily or permanently from the CDC.
• Discipline and Guidance: We desire that children develop a tender-hearted love for God and others and work to help children develop patterns of behavior that are consistent with Scripture. Teachers promote acceptable behavior by modeling and by reinforcing it through positive comments and praise. We notify the parents if a child’s behavior is unacceptable. The CDC Director will also be involved in dealing with situations that involve consistently unacceptable behavior. This may include some supervised time in a “thinking seat” (time out) or a brief suspension from a favorite activity. Per DSS regulations parents must annually complete a Statement of Cooperation with the school’s discipline policies.
• Immunization Records: Parents submit an immunization record at the time enrollment begins. Please regularly submit any updated records. Parents who choose not to immunize their children must submit a completed South Carolina Certificate of Religious Exemption, available from the health department.
• Lost and Found: Each child’s belongings should be labeled. Lost and found items are in the cabinet under the time clock in each lobby or at the office. At the end of the school year, items are donated to charity.
• Illness: See the appendix for information about when a child should stay home from the CDC.
• Medication: A prescription or over the counter medication administered at the CDC must be in the original container, clearly labeled with the child’s name, and given to the teacher along with the appropriate non-prescription medications or prescription medications form (forms are available here and at school offices). Medications for children under two must be accompanied by a doctor’s note specifying proper dosage. A child with an epinephrine injector at the CDC must have a completed Anaphylaxis Medication Authorization form on file along with an emergency action plan from the physician who prescribed the epinephrine injector. Medications are kept in a locked medication box or cabinet. Medication or special medical procedures will be administered only when there is a written, signed, and dated request from a parent. Expired medications cannot be administered.

Part-time Students (Grades 1–12)

Part-time students are students who are supplementing their homeschooling by taking three or fewer classes at BJA.

Part-time students abide by normal school policies, including dress expectations, and are eligible to participate along with full-time students in standardized testing, most school trips, special events, etc.

Part-time students in grades 6–12 attend one chapel each week, typically on Friday. Students in grades 9–12 also attend three Bible Conference services as well as Academy graduation.

While a variety of extracurricular opportunities are available to part-time students, part-time students are not eligible for interscholastic sports (except cross country) or for elected, appointed, or auditioned positions (except speech and debate).

Because communication becomes increasingly challenging when students are not on campus throughout the day, students in grades 6–12 should take extra care to read daily email announcements.

Part-time students may transition to full time after submitting necessary grade reports. Students must attend BJA full-time for both semesters of the senior year to graduate from BJA.

School Illness Guidelines

(as of July 16, 2021)

School Hours and Contact

Central Office (864) 770-1395
[email protected]
www.bobjonesacademy.net

Child Development Center: (864) 770-1390
7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Drop off: classroom
Early drop off (during Academy school year): 7:15–7:30 a.m. lobby

Primary Center (K3–K5): (864) 770-1391
8 a.m.–11:45 a.m. (half day)
8 a.m.–2:45 p.m. (full day)
Drop off: 7:15–7:30 a.m. main hallway; after 7:30 a.m. classroom

Elementary Main (Grades 1–5): (864) 770-1392
8 a.m.–2:45 p.m.
Drop off: 7:15–7:30 a.m. main hallway; after 7:30 a.m. classroom

Middle School (Grades 6–8): (864) 770-1393
8 a.m.–3:10 p.m.
Drop off: 7:15 – 7:45 a.m. MS cafeteria (grades 6–7), Applied Studies Building assembly room (grade 8), after 7:45 a.m. classroom

 High School (Grades 9–12): (864) 770-1394
8 a.m.–3:10 p.m.
7:15–7:40 a.m. may be in Academy Main or Markham Center, after 7:40 a.m. classrooms open

Member of
American Association of Christian Schools
South Carolina Association of Christian Schools
Accredited by
American Association of Christian Schools
South Carolina Association of Christian Schools
Cognia

Subject to the Constitution of the United States and all applicable state and federal laws, Bob Jones Academy does not discriminate in its employment practices or in the administration and dissemination of its programs and services.