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Valley Fellowship Christian Academy Parent / Student Handbook Main Campus 3616 Holmes Avenue NW Huntsville, AL 35816 Upper School Campus 3205 Holmes Avenue NW Huntsville, AL 35816 256.533.5248 256.489.2992 fax vfchristianacademy.com Revision date 07/14/2021
The purpose and vision of Valley Fellowship Christian Academy (VFCA) is to provide Christian leaders, Godly men and women, to take places of authority in the world and in Christ’s body of believers. VFCA was founded in 1987 and has been fully accredited since 1999. VFCA operates as a ministry of Valley Fellowship Church and functions as a nonprofit organization. According to Alabama Code 1975, Section 16-28-1, VFCA is defined as a church school. VFCA Administration and Office Staff Head of School - Patti Simon Upper School Principal - Angela Isley Elementary Principal - Jared Johnston Preschool Director – Ruthie Baker Main Campus: 3616 Holmes Avenue NW Huntsville, AL 35816 Upper School Campus: 3205 Holmes Avenue NW Huntsville, AL 35816 Phone: 256.533.5248 Partnering with Christian Parents cognia.org ACCREDITED Member of: Christian School Alliance of Huntsville and Madison, Alabama Christian Athletic Association, Huntsville Independent School League, Huntsville/Madison Private School Association
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Pages 3-6 Security Policy 26 Admissions Policy 3 Sexuality-Biblical Standards and Policy 26 Code of Ethics for Parents 3 Snacks 26 Distinctives 3 Spiritual Distinctive and Culture 26 Governance Structure 3 Standardized Testing 26 History 4 Student Drivers 27 Philosophy / Statement of Faith 4 Student Records 27 Purpose / Mission 5 Teacher Qualifications 27 Recognition & Affiliation 6 Telephones 27 Transcripts 27 DAILY PROCEDURES Pages 6-8 Visitors 27 Attendance Policies and Procedures 6 Volunteers / Volunteer Hours 27 Student Drop-off & Pickup 8 CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE Pages 28-32 GENERAL INFORMATION Pages 9-27 Conduct 28 Abuse and Neglect Reporting 9 Honor Code 28 Academic Probation 9 Major Policies of Conduct 29 Accreditation 9 Discipline 30 Alabama Immunization Law 10 Disciplinary Notices 31 Assessment Program 10 Discrimination / Harassment 31 Books 10 Advisory Council Involvement 31 Cell Phone Policy 10 Suspension / Expulsion 32 Changing Classes 11 Change in Contact Information 11 DRESS CODE Pages 32-35 Chapel 11 Belts 33 Communication 11 Casual Dress 33 Course Offerings / Curriculum 12 Hair 33 Custody Policy 12 Jewelry / Makeup / Fragrances 33 Dual Enrollment 12 Outerwear 34 Extracurricular Activities / Eligibility 12 PE Uniform 34 Sports 13 Picture Day 34 Field Trips 15 Senior Privilege Dress 34 Firearm Policy 15 Shoes / Socks 34 Fire / Disaster Drills 15 Undershirts 34 Grades 16 Violations / Consequences 35 Graduation Requirements 16 Winter Apparel 35 Guidance Counseling Services 18 Health Policies 18 FINANCES Pages 35 Homework 19 Budget 35 Hours of Operation 19 Dewar Tuition Refund Insurance 35 Insurance Coverage 19 FACTS Management Company 35 Intervention 19 Financial Commitment 35 Items Brought to School 20 Fundraising 36 Liability and Dispute Resolution 20 Graduation 36 Library / Media Center 20 Withdrawals 36 Locker / Shelf Space 20 Lost and Found 21 TUITION AND FEES Pages 36-38 Lunch / Lunch Orders 21 Optional Fees 36 Medication 22 Payment Options and Schedule 37 Mission Statement 23 Refund Policy 37 Mission Trips Overnight 23 Registration / Required Fees 37 Nap / Nap Mats 23 Tuition 37 Outside Activities 23 Overnight School Sponsored Trips 23 HANDBOOK AGREEMENT 40 Parent Action Team (PAT) 23 Parent-Teacher Conferences 24 Personal Spiritual Counseling 24 P.E./Outdoor 24 Photo Rights 24 Plagiarism 24 Playground Guidelines 24 Pledges 24 Pre-Registration 24 Progress Reports 24 Report Cards 25 Resolving Conflict 25 School Closings 25 School Property 25 Search and Seizure Policy 25
INTRODUCTION MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear VFCA Families, We value your partnership! Our staff is unified under our God-given purpose and mission to raise Godly leaders, men, and women, to take their place in the world and in the Body of Christ. We look forward to partnering with you this year as we love, teach, and disciple your child. This handbook provides information about policies and procedures. We want families to be fully informed about our program. We provide a safe, loving, and nurturing environment for your child. Our staff is trained to educate, train, and care for students. Our campuses are safe, secure, and managed well, and we want our students to know that they are loved. Our staff cares for our students with Godly, pure, and genuine love. We work hard to create an environment infused with the authentic presence of God. In everything we do, we honor God, His Word, and His presence. At VFCA, our teachers provide interesting, creative, and positive learning environments. We are Christian educators, committed to teaching from a Biblical worldview. Read this handbook carefully and thoroughly. If you are unclear about any policy or need clarification regarding a particular section, contact the Head of School or a member of our administrative team. Blessings in Christ, Patti Simon, Head of School ADMISSIONS POLICY In the spirit of Christian unity and the love that Christ shows for all humankind, Valley Fellowship Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, or physical disability. However, Valley Fellowship Christian Academy does reserve the right to use appropriate selection criteria in fulfillment of its stated goals and objectives. Age Requirements (K5-1st grade) K5: The student must be 5 years old by September 1. 1st: The student must be 6 years old by September 1 and completed a kindergarten program. Enrollment Requirements • Completed Online Application with payment of $25 Application Fee. • Schedule academic assessments in Reading and Math at VFCA • Student/parent interview following the academic assessment. • Submit transcripts from former schools (including academic testing and behavior reports) Official transcript requests are sent upon acceptance. • Submit Photocopy of Birth Certificate • Submit State of Alabama Certificate of Immunization (cards must be kept current) • Every student and family is expected to demonstrate a true Christian testimony. It is expected that each family practice faithful church attendance and participation. Families may attend Valley Fellowship Church or another Christian church of their choosing. • Every student and family is expected to fully support and abide by all school policies and procedures. This includes, but is not limited to attendance, discipline, dress code policies, financial commitments, honor code, and code of ethics. VFCA may choose, at its discretion, to deny enrollment to any applicant or dismiss a student if: • The student’s academic standing is questionable or in jeopardy. • Assessment determines that the learning needs of the student cannot be accommodated. • The student has past or current behavioral/discipline challenges • For any reason, the student and/or family does not align with the goals and mission of the school. • The financial commitment cannot be met or becomes delinquent. • The student and/or family is not in agreement with the school’s Christian beliefs and statement of faith. • The student and/or parents do not uphold a Christian lifestyle and Biblical values. • The student and/or parent do not comply with all school policies and procedures. • The student and/or parents are unable to cooperate with the school leadership and staff. VFCA chooses to abide by the promotion/retention decisions mandated by other schools. Each case will be reviewed individually. It is the policy of VFCA to not accept students for enrollment who have previously been expelled or suspended or failed to be promoted. VFCA reserves the right to make changes or exceptions to the admissions policy when deemed necessary or in the best interest of the school. VFCA is a Christ-centered school with a mission of discipleship. Therefore, VFCA does reserve the right to use the stated criteria for admitting and/or dismissing students. CODE OF ETHICS FOR PARENTS VFCA is privileged to partner with parents in the training and education of their children. The VFCA administration and faculty want to foster healthy communication between the home and the school. It is expected that parents support the mission and policies of VFCA. Recognizing the importance of parental support to quality education, the parent should endeavor to maintain open communication and cooperation between themselves and the staff of VFCA in all issues that concern the student. By doing so, parents display a respectful attitude and gratitude for a quality Christian education. Parents are expected to speak positively in regard to the school at all times. Any grievances should be first brought to the teacher’s attention for reconciliation. The school reserves the right to dismiss students should there be any issues that are unable to be resolved with parents such as: unresolved financial commitments, poor relations, lack of cooperation, etc. Partnership with parents is built upon trust. DISTINCTIVES VFCA’s celebrates that our constituency is very diverse. The student body is comprised of students from many different denominational backgrounds, races, VFCA Handbook Page 3
and socio-economic backgrounds. We are honored to serve a significate segment of our enrollment that represent Redstone Arsenal military families. Our diversity is a strength with a focus on the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the authority of the Holy Scriptures. VFCA is growing in every area of its vision and influence. We consider ourselves a Christian community school for the Huntsville and Madison areas. GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE VFCA operates as a church school and a non-profit organization. The school is overseen by the Advisory Council of the church and its daily operations are conducted through the leadership of the Head of School and supporting administrative personnel. VFCA partners with Parent Action Team (PAT) volunteer for many of its special projects, school improvement goals, extracurricular activities, classroom special events, fundraisers and outreach. Leadership Description and Flow of Authority The Advisory Council of VFCA includes the senior pastors and elders of Valley Fellowship Church (VFC) and the Head of School. The Advisory Council seeks to act in the best interest of every student in the school. It is the responsibility of the Advisory Council to provide advisement to the Head of School. The Head of School is responsible to direct the administrative team and jointly manage the daily operations of the school. The administration is responsible for establishing sound policies, to ensure accountability, and to provide sound leadership on behalf of the school. To maximize the Advisory Council and administration’s effectiveness, all members are expected to adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct. The Advisory Council meets formally monthly throughout the school year. Page 4
Organizational Flow of Authority Description VFC Pastors VFCA is a church school as defined by Alabama State Law, Code 16-28-1, and is a ministry of Valley Fellowship Church. The VFC Pastors, Elders, and Treasurer comprise the Advisory Council of the school. The daily operations are under the direction of the Head of Head of School. The head of the Advisory Council (Chairman) is School Advisory Pastor Greg Simon and (Vice Chairman) Pastor Carol Simon. The other members are Elders: Jerry Dean, Tom Hase, Darrell Bourne Council and Treasurer, Larry Laster. The Head of School, Patti Simon, is responsible for the direction of the daily operations within the school, developing and maintaining the school budget, conducting Principals the hiring and placement of all school employees, maintaining Business LVA Director accreditation status and addressing student and parent relations. Director The Head of School selects the administrative team and has Building & Support oversight of the faculty and support staff. The Head of school Staff Security Team manages student discipline, parent communication, fundraising, special events, curriculum, and the daily operations of the school. The Head of School fulfills the stated job description as listed in Faculty the Employee Handbook. VFCA parents and students provide support through the Parent Action Team (PAT) and work with the Athletic administration and staff on school needs and goals. Only one Directors governance structure exists at VFCA for the entire school, from the preschool through the 12th grade. Students Parents HISTORY VFCA is a Spirit-filled Christian school where students can become more like Christ and lead others to know Him. VFCA trains leaders to become spiritually alive, academically strong, and physically fit. Since its foundation in 1987, VFCA has offered a Christian Education in a Spirit-filled environment filled with God’s presence, provision, and direction. Valley Fellowship Church was established in 1980 and filed for status as a separate, nonprofit corporation and was granted IRS status as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit corporation. VFCA is a church school. Initial planning for VFCA began in June 1986 with an educational committee of VFC members appointed by Pastor Jerry Simon. Since its incorporation, VFC accepted God’s call to establish a Christian school where children could receive a quality Christian education. In August 1987, VFCA began its first year with 125 students in K3 through the 8th grade. The enrollment of the school has ranged from 125 to 325. Initially, the ABeka curriculum was chosen as the primary curriculum, a before/aftercare program was implemented, and a music program with piano lessons was offered. Through the years the school’s curriculum has developed into a blended and Biblically aligned curriculum. The school utilizes ABeka, Bob Jones, Saxon Math, and a wide range of novels. All curriculum is Biblically integrated. Greg and Patti Simon joined the VFC pastoral team and the VFCA staff in 1988 and have served over 31 years to the present day. Since 2003, Patti Simon serves as the Head of School. The church and school leadership carry a strong conviction and calling for educating and discipling students through the instrument of Christian education. VFCA is a place for the Lord’s presence to dwell. From its inception, the pastors, and teachers of VFCA meet and begin each day with praise, worship, and prayer. This foundational practice has continued since 1987. The school continues to grow and experience the strong purpose and presence of God. VFCA’s future is bright. God’s call is upon VFCA to train bold and obedient disciples for the Lord Jesus. Grounded and bathed in prayer. We honor the authority of Scripture and embrace Spirit empowered worship. Our God-given mission is raise Godly leaders to change the world for Christ! BIBLICAL PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION VFCA holds to a God-centered view of life, truth, and education. There is one God who manifests Himself in three personalities: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God is the only Sovereign being. He created and sustains all things by His power. Man is a part of that creation. Man was made in the image and likeness of God. However, man chose to disobey God and fell into sin. As a result, man’s innate nature of sin can only be restored into a relationship with God by accepting the salvation provided by Christ’s death and resurrection. The purpose of education is to train the student in an understanding of God’s nature. By doing so, the student can then fulfill the purpose of God for his or her life. A true Christian education must be based upon the infallible authority of the Bible as God’s Holy Word. The student must be trained in his or her spirit, mind, and body so that he or she can be well prepared for his purpose both on earth and in eternity. The student must be taught that all truth is God’s truth. Knowledge and understanding in all subjects of education originate from God’s truth. These subjects must be taught by teachers who have a God-centered view of life and truth and who will model that view to the student. The foundation for teaching the Word in the classroom is based on what is taught in the pulpit of Valley Fellowship Church. The following are the foundational truths of Valley Fellowship Church. STATEMENT OF FAITH We believe: • The Bible to be the inspired and only infallible and authoritative Word of God. • That there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. • In the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in the blessed hope of His personal visible future return to this earth to receive to Himself His blood-bought Church that it may be with Him forever. • In the precious blood of Christ and that regeneration is absolutely essential for personal salvation. • That the redemptive work of Christ on the cross provides healing of the body in answer to the believing prayer. • That the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, according to Acts 2:4, is given to believers who ask for it. • In the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit by Who’s indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a holy life. • In the resurrection of both the saved and the lost, the one to everlasting life and the other to everlasting damnation. Expanded Statement of Faith Holy Bible: The Holy Bible, and only the Bible, is the authoritative Word of God. It alone is the final authority in determining all the doctrinal truths. In its original writing, is inspired infallible and inerrant (II Timothy 3:16; II Peter 1:20-21; Proverbs 30:5; Romans 16:25-26.) Trinity: There is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. These three are coequal and co-eternal (I John 5:7; Genesis 1:26; Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19; Luke 1:35; Isaiah 9:6; Hebrews 3:7-11). VFCA Handbook Page 5
Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is God the Son, the second person of the Trinity. On earth, Jesus was 100% God and 100% man. He is the only man ever to have lived a sinless life. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died on the cross for mankind and thus, atoned for our sins through the shedding of His blood. He rose from the dead on the third day according to the Scriptures, ascended to the right hand of the Father and will return again in power and glory. (John 1:1, 14; John 20:28; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Philippians 2:5-6; I Timothy 2:5.) Virgin Birth: Jesus Christ was conceived by God the Father, through the Holy Spirit (the third person of the Trinity) in the virgin Mary’s womb; therefore, He is the Son of God (Matthew 1:18, 25; Luke 1:35; Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18, 23-25; Luke 1:27-35.) Redemption: Man was created good and upright, but by voluntary transgression he fell; his only hope of redemption is in Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Gen. 1:26-31, 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-21). Regeneration: For anyone to know God, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential (John 6:44, 65). Salvation: We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ; His death, burial, and resurrection. Salvation is a gift from God, not a result of our good works or of any human efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9; Galatians 2:16, 3:8; Titus 3:5; Romans 10:9-10; Acts 16:31; Hebrews 9:22). Repentance: Repentance is the commitment to turn away from sin in every area of our lives and to follow Christ, which allows us to receive His redemption and to be regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Thus, through repentance we receive forgiveness of sins and appropriate salvation (Acts 2:21, 3:19; I John 1:9). Sanctification: Sanctification is the ongoing process of yielding to God’s Word and His Spirit to complete the development of Christ’s character in us. It is through the present ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God that the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (I Thessalonians 4:3, 5:23; II Corinthians 3:18, 6:14-18; II Thessalonians 2:1-3; Romans 8:29, 12:1-2; Hebrews 2:11.) Jesus’ Blood: The blood that Jesus Christ shed on the cross of Calvary was sinless and is 100% sufficient to cleanse man of all sin. Jesus allowed Himself to be punished for both our sinfulness and our sins, enabling all those who believe to be free from the penalty of sin, which is death (I John 1:7; Revelation 1:5, 5:9; Colossians 1:20; Romans 3:10-12, 23, 5:9: John 1:29.) Jesus Christ indwells all Believers: Christians are people who have invited the Lord Jesus Christ to come and live inside them by His Holy Spirit. They relinquish the authority of their lives over to Him, thus making Jesus the Lord of their life as well as Savior. They put their trust in what Jesus accomplished for them when He died, was buried, and rose again from the dead (John 1:12, 14:17, 23, John 15:4; Romans 8:11; Revelations 3:20.) Baptism In the Holy Spirit: Given at Pentecost, it is the promise of the Father, sent by Jesus after His ascension, to empower the Church to preach the Gospel throughout the whole earth. Its purpose is to bring edification to the believers and to enhance their prayer life. It is also a sign to the unbeliever (Joel 2:28-29; Matthew 3:11; Mark 16:17; Acts 1:5, 8, 2:1-4, 17, 38-39, 8:14-17, 10:38, 44-47, 11:15-17, 19:1-6.) The Gifts of The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is manifested through a variety of spiritual gifts to build and sanctify the church, demonstrate the validity of the resurrection, and confirm the power of the gospel. The Bible lists of these gifts are not necessarily exhaustive, and the gifts may occur in various combinations. All believers are commanded to earnestly desire the manifestation of the gifts in their lives. These gifts always operate in harmony with the Scriptures and should never be used in violation of Biblical parameters (Hebrews 2:4; Romans 1:11, 12:4-8; Ephesians 4:16; II Timothy 1:5-16, 4:14; I Corinthians 12:1-31, 14:1-40; I Peter 4:10). The Church: The church is the Body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of Jesus great commission. Every person who is born of the Spirit is an integral part of the church as a member of the body of believers. There is a spiritual unity of all believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:22, 2:19-22; Hebrews 12:23; John 17:11, 20-23). Sacraments: Water Baptism: Following faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the new convert is commanded by the Word of God to be baptized in water in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy spirit (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38.) The Lord’s Supper: A unique time of communion in the presence of God when the elements of bread and grape juice (the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ) are taken in remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12, 36-38; 10:47-48; I Corinthians 10:16, 11:23-25). Healing Of the Sick: Healing of the sick is illustrated in the life and ministry of Jesus and included in the commission of Jesus to His disciples. It is given as a sign, which is to follow believers. It is also a part of Jesus’ atonement on the cross and one of the gifts of the Spirit (Psalm 103:2-3; Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:16-17; Mark 16:17-18; Acts 8:6-7; James 5:14-16; I Corinthians 12:9, 28; Romans 11:29). God’s Will for Provision: It is the Father’s will for believers to become whole, healthy and successful in all areas of life. But because of the fall, many may not receive the full benefits of God’s will while on earth. That fact, though, should never prevent all believers from seeking the full benefits of Christ’s provision in order to better serve others: 1. Spiritual (John 3:3-11; II Corinthians 5:17-21; Romans 10:9-10) 2. Mental and Emotional (II Timothy 1:7, 2:11; Philippians 4:7-8; Romans 12:2; Isaiah 26:3) 3. Physical (Isaiah 53:4-5; Matthew 8:17; I Peter 2:24) 4. Financial (Joshua 1:8; Malachi 3:10-11; Luke 6:38; II Corinthians 9:6-10; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Psalm 34:10, 84:11; Philippians 4:19.) Resurrection: Jesus Christ was physically resurrected from the dead in a glorified body three days after His death on the cross. One day, all believers in Christ will also be physically resurrected in their glorified bodies to their eternal reward in Heaven with God (Luke 24:16, 36, 39; John 2:19-21; 20:26-28; 21:4; Acts 24:15: I Corinthians 15:42, 44; Philippians 1:21-23; 3:21.) Heaven: Heaven is the eternal dwelling place for all believers in the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:3, 12, 20, 6:20, 19:21, 25:34; John 17:24; II Corinthians 5:1; Hebrews 11:16; I Peter 1:4.) Hell: After living one life on earth, the unbelievers will be judged by God and sent to hell where they will be eternally tormented with the devil and the fallen angels (Matthew 25:41; Mark 9:43-48; Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:12-15, 21:8.) Second Coming: Jesus Christ will physically and visibly return to earth for the second time to establish His Kingdom. This will occur at a date undisclosed by the Scriptures (Matthew 24:30, 26:63-64; Acts 1:9-11; I Thessalonians 4:15-17; II Thessalonians 1:7-8; Revelation 1:7.) Sexuality: God created and ordained human sexuality, and it is a natural part of life. Heterosexual relations, when practiced in the sanctity of marriage as God ordained and intended between a man and woman (as biologically created by God), are a pure wonder of God’s creation, and blessed. (Genesis 1:26–28, 2:18–25; Titus 1:15; Romans 13:10; Galatians 5:22–23) Family: God created and ordained the marriage union of man and woman. God ordained families to share their lives and to support and help one another. Parents have the responsibility to lovingly care for their children, as well as to impart godly principles and moral values to them, and a respect and love for God and others. (Genesis 2:18, 21–24; Deuteronomy 6:5–7; Psalm 68:6; Psalm 127:3–5; Proverbs 22:6; Matthew 19:4-6, 13–14; Ephesians 5:25–31. Ephesians 6:1–4) Sanctity Of Life: Human life is sacred, and each person has the God-given right to be treated with respect as an individual created in the image of God. We are to love our neighbor as ourselves regardless of race, gender, creed, nationality, or social status. Life from conception to death is a valued gift from God, to be respected and nurtured. As God is the sole giver of life, the time of death of each human life should also be left in His hands. (Genesis 1:27, 2:7; Psalm 31:15; 139:14–16; Galatians 6:10; Mark 12:31; Romans 2:11; 1 Corinthians 16:14) PURPOSE / MISSION VFCA began with a call to create a place where Christian families could partner with Christian educators in the training of their children. The purpose, simply stated, was to provide a safe learning environment that promoted quality Christian education in the newness of the Holy Spirit. Page 6
VFCA exists to educate and “to provide Christian leaders, Godly men and women, to take places of authority in the world and in Christ’s body of believers”. Great emphasis is placed on “raising up” and “training” our students to be leaders. The education offered at VFCA is one infused with the newness of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing academic excellence. VFCA is an extension of the Christian home and exists to help parents fulfill their responsibility to educate their children. Through the years, many students and families have been saved and have received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit through being part of the VFCA family. Each child is encouraged in the development of: 1) his/her personal relationship with God the Father; 2) the resurrection power of Jesus Christ; and 3) the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Our goal is to cultivate a Biblical partnership that encompasses the student, the parent, and the school. Our prayer for the students is taken from Isaiah 54:13 which says: “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of thy children.” RECOGNITION AND AFFILIATIONS The school became dually accredited through the International Christian Accrediting Association (ICAA) in 1999 and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in 2001. VFCA has been a member of Oral Roberts University Educational Fellowship (ORUEF) since 1988; for more information see- Accreditation. VFCA is also a member of the Huntsville Independent School League (HISL), the Alabama Christian Athletic Association (ACAA). DAILY PROCEDURES ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Good student attendance enhances learning. VFCA equates attendance with academic achievement. For our students to achieve excellence in academics, students must attend classes on a regular basis. 1. If it is necessary for a student to leave school other than at normal times, clearance with the office must be obtained beforehand in writing. A student MUST be signed-out when he/she leaves the school grounds. 2. If a student is absent excessively, the parent or guardian must meet with the teacher to discuss make-up work and the reason for his/her absences. More than 10 days of unexcused absences will be grounds for retention, suspension, or expulsion. If a student is absent, the parent should call the school office that morning. The office will call the parents of students who have not contacted the office that morning. Parent(s) must provide a written or emailed explanation of the reason(s) for an absence within two school days after each absence (or consecutive absences). If a written explanation is not provided within this two-day period, the absence(s) will be coded unexcused. Absences-Excused A written explanation must be issued as one of the following to be considered excused: 1. Personal illness without doctor’s excuse, with parent/guardian excuse. (NOTE: Parent notes are permitted for sickness only. The “sick-note” must be submitted within two days of the student’s return to be excused. No “sick-notes” will be accepted after that time has elapsed or for any other reason.) 2. Personal illness with a doctor’s statement. 3. Death in the immediate family. Student is allowed up to two bereavement days. 4. Weather preventing attendance (which could endanger a student’s health). 5. Legal requirements, such as a subpoena or other required court appearances. 6. Prior permission by the Head of School or Administration at the request of parent or guardian. 7. Legal quarantine. A student may have a total of 10 excused absences for illness without a doctor’s statement (parent must provide a “sick-note”). After an accumulation of 10 excused absences for illness (“sick-notes”), the student will receive unexcused absences for illness unless the absence(s) can be documented with a doctor’s statement. Exceptions to this policy will require a doctor’s documentation of a chronic illness. A student will receive excused absences for reasons 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 above, provided that proper documentation has been submitted within the required two days. PLEASE NOTE - If an excuse does not fall into one of these categories, it will not be excused. Absences-Unexcused Any absence(s) not classified as an excused absence(s), absences for reason other than # 1-7 from the previous list, will be coded as unexcused. Days absent due to suspension from school will be classified as unexcused. The administration may deny a student course or subject credit for the year if the number of unexcused absences exceeds ten (10). Five (5) unexcused class absences in one semester could justify denial of credit for the semester. Absences due to taking the driver’s exam or permit test do not qualify as excused. Parent initiated vacations or extended trips out of the country are considered unexcused absences. We strongly encourage parents to schedule doctor appointments after school hours and schedule family vacations during summer or school holidays. Students are expected to begin and end the school year in compliance with the school calendar’s beginning and ending dates. Grading periods end on a set schedule and may not be held open to allow for missed work due to an extended trip. Our holiday and yearly schedule may or may not correspond to the Huntsville City or Madison County school calendar. Excessive Absences-Due to Illness It is encouraged that doctor excused absences do not exceed ten. If this number is exceeded, the administration will meet with the parents to see how coursework will be made up and to determine how best to meet the child’s educational needs. All coursework must be made up to meet the standards for promotion. This may be accomplished with help of a homebound teacher, summer school or by whatever means determined acceptable by the administration. Questionable excused absences are decided upon by the administration. Excessive Absences-Unexcused (Consequences) Once a student has reached five (5) unexcused absences, the parents will be referred to the principal. Should the number of unexcused absences exceed ten (10); a meeting with the administration will be required. If a student exceeds 10 unexcused absences it will be grounds for retention, suspension, or expulsion. VFCA Handbook Page 7
Middle and High School (7th-12th grades) - Absences per Period High school students are on a seven-period schedule, attendance is taken in each class. A missed class counts as one (1) absence for that class. For example: if a student misses 3rd period English four times, then they will have four absences in English. If a student misses a class ten (10) times, this is equal to ten (10) absences for that class. VFCA Administration may deny a student course or subject credit for the year if the number of unexcused absences for any class within the year exceeds ten (10). For courses that are only half (1/2) credit or one semester, credit may be denied for five (5) unexcused absences in that semester. Makeup Work If a child is absent, parents should notify the office. If the office does not receive a call, then a call will be placed to inquire about the student. For excused absences, teachers may be able to have assignments ready to be picked-up in the office. Please give your child’s teacher 24 hours advance notice and ample time to prepare the assignments. If a student has excused absences for a lengthy period, parents should meet with the teacher to see if arrangements for makeup work can be determined. Makeup work (such as homework, in-class assignments, tests and quizzes) is done at the discretion of the teacher. Deadlines for makeup work will be communicated to the student and parent. Teachers do not have to accept makeup work for unexcused absences but may choose to do so. For school-related trips, teachers must be given three (3) weeks’ notices to prepare for missed work. Medical / Dental Appointment-Absences A student who must be away from school for a reasonable part of the school day for a medical or dental appointment is typically counted absent. However, a note from the physician/dentist must be furnished upon student’s return to school for an “excused” status to be granted. Please make every effort to schedule these appointments outside of school hours. Missed Finals 7th-12th Grade: Absences during Mid-Term and Finals Weeks in December and May are not allowed. If a student misses a test during either of these weeks in December or May, they will receive an automatic “0”. The only exceptions would be: hospitalization, a death in the immediate family, a written doctor’s excuse for a serious illness, or exemptions earned (9th-12th only) at the end of the second semester for academic excellence. Students receive exemptions from Finals in May by receiving a grade of an “A” in all four quarters. Students must also have no more than three unexcused absences in each class. There are no exemptions for Mid-Terms in December. Parent Responsibility Parents are responsible to see that their child (children) attend school and arrive on time, regardless of the grade or age (K5-12th). For students who drive themselves to school, the responsibility of attendance still lies with the parents. The District Attorney’s Office prosecutes the parents, not the child. The VFCA administration holds all parents accountable for the attendance policy as stated in this handbook. Each student is expected to attend school on a regular basis. Attendance records will be maintained for all students from K5 through 12th grade and poor attendance can jeopardize grade promotion. School Related Activities-Absences Students who participate in school-sponsored or school authorized activities and are thereby absent from school or class will not be counted as absent from school if they meet the following criteria. For a trip absence to not count against perfect attendance, a student must attend at least 75% of the designated group’s meetings or practices. This includes spiritual, academic, and athletic organizations. Student’s Record-Absence Accountability K5- 6th attendance is documented as follows: Attendance is marked: Tardy (arrive 8:15-8:30am); Half-day absence (arrives 8:30-11:30am); Full-day absence (arrive 11:30am or later). A student arriving after 8:15am is coded as tardy. The academic day is 8:15am to 11:30am is the first half of the day and 11:30am to 3:20am is the last half of the day. If a student checks in late (after 8:30am) but before 11:30am and remains in school for the remainder of the day, then the student receives a half day absence. If the student comes to school on time and then checks out before 11:30am, the student receives a half day absence. Fifth and sixth grade Drop- off and Pick-up times and procedures align with the Upper Campus schedule. 7th-12th attendance is documented as follows: Students are counted present, absent, or tardy for each class period. Attendance is taken for every class. The first period begins at 8:15am. Students are counted tardy if they arrive in any class after the bell or after the scheduled start time. Three (3) incidents of tardiness in a class are equal to one absence for that class. 7th-12th grade students who accumulate ten (10) absences for a class or five (5) absences for a half-semester class may be denied credit for the course or courses involved. Tardy Students learn promptness by being on time for school. K5-12th students arriving after 8:15am is tardy. Tardiness disrupts the classroom. Therefore, students who are tardy MUST go to the office and receive a tardy slip before going to class. Students arriving after 8:15am must be signed in by their parent in the office. Student drivers may sign in themselves. Tardiness is documented. Three tardies are equal to one unexcused absence. • Three incidents of tardiness equate to one unexcused absence in our recording system. • Students who are tardy are marked as unexcused. Very few excuses allow a tardy to be excused. • Excuses such as oversleeping, carpool or car troubles, traffic, etc. are not accepted. • For any tardy to be considered as excused, a hand-written note from the parent or guardian must be submitted. The office determines if the tardy is excused. • Ten or more incidents of unexcused tardiness require a meeting with the administration and may result in retention. • If a student walks into a testing situation with a tardy, the teacher may do one of the following: allow the student to begin and turn in the test with the time left. • A tardy is a tardy no matter who is transporting the student(s), a parent or the student themselves. One minute after the official start of the school day is considered tardy. Please plan ahead; be on time. Page 8
Tardiness is documented in Upper School for each class period. Students are to be in class and seated when the bell rings. Students who arrive in any class after the bell are sent to the office to receive a tardy slip. All tardy incidents accumulate as unexcused absences. Excessive tardy incidents result in disciplinary action and/or a loss of credit. STUDENT DROP-OFF & PICKUP Safety is our first priority at VFCA. Drivers entering our property should use extreme caution and remain alert. Enter our property at a slow rate of speed and remain at a slow rate of speed. Be mindful of pedestrians, especially small children. Children, other parents, and staff may be walking into our facilities or going to a playground. Drivers must not be on their cell phones while driving on or off our property. Be mindful of student drivers on our property. Drive with the flow of traffic not against the flow of traffic. During drop-off and pick-up car line schedules, do not attempt to drive around cars in the line. VFCA parents are not park your car and attempt to walk children into our facilities during car line schedules. Never leave your car unattended and running. Never leave a child in an unattended car. During our before and after care schedule, parents are to park their car and bring their child into the appropriate building and sign them in or out. These guidelines are set for the protection of everyone. Those who intentionally violate the guidelines will be turned into the authorities. Be aware that our Little Valley Academy and Daycare operate at our Main Campus. Use extreme caution when driving on our property and watch for young and old pedestrians. Operational Schedules below: Main Campus 3616 Holmes Ave. Main Office 9:00am-4:00pm Main Office-Hours of Operation VFCA (K5-4th)-Building Three 7:00am-7:50am BeforeCare (Drop off at Zone 3) 7:55am-8:15am Arrival/Drop Off/Car Line (Zone 3) 8:15am School Day Begins 8:15am-9:00am Late arrivals must check in at Zone 3 Elementary Building until 9:00am 9:00am-3:300pm Elementary Students and Families are to check in/out through the Main Office 3:10pm School Day Ends 3:10pm-3:30pm Dismissal/Pick Up/Car Line (Zone 3) 3:30pm-5:30pm AfterCare in Building Three (Pick up at Zone 3) Upper Campus 3205 Holmes Ave. Front Reception Office 8:00am-4:00pm Reception Office-Hours of Operation Upper Elementary (5th-6th) 7:00am-7:50am 5th-6th BeforeCare-Zone 4 7:55am-8:15am Drop Off/Car Line 8:15am School Day Begins 3:00pm School Day Ends 3:00pm-3:30pm Dismissal/Pick-Up Carline 3:30pm-5:30pm Aftercare Middle School/High School (7th-12th) 7:00am-7:50am 7th-12th BeforeCare 7:55am-8:15am Drop Off/Car Line 8:15am School Day Begins 3:15pm School Day Ends 3:15pm-3:30pm Dismissal/Pick-Up Carline 3:30pm-5:30pm Aftercare Children’s Prayer Network Elementary students participating in Children’s Prayer network can sign up at registration day. Meeting times and dates will be provided by the administration for all participating students. All Grades The parents/guardians are to submit a list of people who have permission to pick up their child(ren). VFCA will not release a child to anyone not indicated on the submitted list of names without prior approval from parent/guardian. If the need arises when a student must leave with someone not on the regular permission list, the office must receive a written note from the parent giving that permission ahead of time. If a person not listed on the pick-up list attempts to pick up a child, the parent will be contacted, and the child will remain at school until the matter is settled. Additionally, if an individual comes to pick up a child without a valid ID, VFCA will not release the child to said individual. If parents are divorced or separated (or there is a custody change) and one of the parents is not allowed to see or pick-up the child, we must have a Certified Copy of the court order of Final Judgment of Custody on file. VFCA cannot be held liable for uncommunicated custody changes. Parents are responsible for transportation of students who have after-school lessons, practices, and/or games. Parents transporting other students from VFCA to events must have proper documentation on file in the office. The documentation must show permission granted from the child’s parent(s) by signature. Parents who drive other students to any event must show proof of insurance. VFCA Handbook Page 9
Parents should not allow their children to use the playground facilities during arrival and dismissal times. Main Campus: 3616 Holmes Ave. Huntsville, AL 35816 Zones 1-3 Main Campus Reception Office Open 9:00am-4:00pm Zone 1 (Building 1) – Drop Off/Pick-up - LVA Only for designated LVA children Zone 2 (Building 2) – Drop Off/Pick-up - LVA Only for designated LVA children Zone 3 (Building 3) – Drop Off/Pick-up – VFCA Elementary VFCA children in grades K5-4th Before and Aftercare students are to be dropped off at Zone 3 Upper School Campus (ZONE 4): Grades 5th-12th 3205 Holmes Ave. Huntsville, AL 35816 Zone 4 – (Upper School Campus) Drop Off/Pick-up –VFCA Grades 5th-12th Grades Parents, please follow the directional signs for the flow of traffic. Cars should enter the west side entrance off Holmes Avenue and travel in a straight path to the end of the parking lot, take a slight left and left again toward the student drop off zone #4, side entrance. Student drivers will be assigned a parking space (see Student Driver section). Non-driving VFCA students in grades 5th-12th will be dropped off at the REAR of the building during drop off and pick up times. Guidelines for Zones 1-4 Safety is a priority at VFCA. • Enter the parking lot cautiously and at a slow rate of speed. • Cars are NOT permitted to pass other cars in the carline but must wait until traffic moves forward; there will be a single lane of traffic. • Pedestrians are not permitted near the carline; do not park and attempt to walk your child into the building during the drop-off or pick-up carline times. • Never leave your car running and unattended. • Never leave children unattended inside the car, for any reason. • Never be on your cell phone when driving onto or off our property. GENERAL INFORMATION ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING All school employees are mandated reporters for the Department of Human Resources (DHR). Should any school employee have knowledge of known or suspected child abuse/neglect they shall immediately report the facts as known, either in person or by phone, to the State of Alabama Department of Human Resources at 256-535-4500, or to the Police Department at 256-532-7211. The employee shall also notify the VFCA administration. ACADEMIC PROBATION If a student fails two or more subjects in a grading period, he/she will be placed on academic probation for the following nine-week grading period. If, at the end of that period, the student is still failing in two or more subjects, a conference may be held with the student, parents, and administration (possibly including the school board) to determine the next step of action. ACCREDITATION VFCA is fully accredited through two educational organizations: International Christian Accrediting Association (ICAA) and Southern Accreditation of Colleges and Schools (SACS/AdvancED). VFCA believes in the accreditation process and has voluntarily applied the standards of both ICAA and SACS/AdvancED. The school became fully accredited through ICAA in 1999 and SACS in 2001. In 2009, VFCA received the most outstanding school of the year award through the Oral Roberts University Educational Fellowship (ORUEF)/ICAA review. VFCA pursues academic excellence and measures each program by its mission. Accreditation comes from the same root word as credible (to believe or trust). Accreditation, therefore, acknowledges a school’s credibility – its believability. Although some might see an accrediting agency as giving credibility to a school, the process of accreditation ascertains and acknowledges the school’s credibility by providing external witnesses. AdvancED Overview AdvancED is the world’s largest education community, serving more than 27,000 public and private schools and districts across the United States and in 69 countries that educate over 15 million students. We believe that students must be prepared to succeed in a constantly evolving and diverse world and that educational institutions have a deep responsibility to deliver quality education to students from all walks of life. As the global leader in advancing education excellence through accreditation and school improvement, AdvancED brings together more than 100 years of experience and the expertise of the two largest Page 10
national accreditation agencies – the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). The AdvancED Accreditation Process, a protocol embraced around the world, is a clear and comprehensive program of evaluation and external review, supported by research-based standards, and dedicated to helping schools, districts and education providers continuously improve. Our research results help us shape educational policy and strengthen learning practices worldwide. ICAA’s Purpose/Distinctives The purpose of the International Christian Accrediting Association (ICAA) is to assist Christian educational institutions in the improvement of education within its Christian distinctive by establishing an organizational witness to their credibility of performance, integrity, and quality. ICAA is a voluntary accrediting association of Christian schools. All schools accredited by ICAA share these distinctives: • To identify themselves as educational institutions led by the Holy Spirit to glorify God and His Son, Jesus Christ, in all programs and activities. • To accept the Statement of Faith adopted by the Association. • To agree to promote and adhere to the Standards and Procedures of the Association. • To identify with the charismatic/Pentecostal movement of the Christian faith. • To maintain membership in ORUEF. AFTERCARE AfterCare and BeforeCare is offered to students at both school campuses. Students remain in school uniform during Aftercare. Main Campus 3616 Holmes Ave. K5-4th BeforeCare 7:00-7:50am AfterCare 3:30-5:30pm Upper Campus 3205 Holmes Ave. 5th-12th BeforeCare 7:00-7:50am 5th-6th AfterCare 3:30-5:30pm 7th-12th AfterCare 3:30-5:30pm ALABAMA IMMUNIZATION LAW The state of Alabama requires that every student have an updated Alabama Certificate of Immunization card on file before (or on) the first day of school. Immunization records must be kept up to date throughout the school year. All students must meet the Alabama immunization requirements. Immunizations can be taken care of through a family physician or the local health department. Before immunization cards expire, parents will be sent a notice from the office. Cards must be renewed immediately. A student with an expired immunization record may not return to class until the record has been renewed and placed on file in the school office. ASSESSMENT PROGRAM The VFCA Assessment program includes the following assessments: • Enrollment Academic Assessments for all new students • Period Report Cards • Progress/Praise Report (as requested) • K5 Readiness Test given to K4 and New K5 students • School Readiness Test given to VFCA students prior to entering 1st grade. • Presidential Fitness Program (K5-12th as applicable) • Spiritual Assessment (K5-12th) • National Assessments (3rd-10th) • STAR Reading and Math Assessments (1st-12th as applicable) • Accelerated Reader Program (1st-6th) • PSAT (11th) • ACT/SAT college entrance exams – information on registration, test dates and sites is provided. BIRTHDAYS We love to celebrate our children’s birthdays. Our teaching staff are prepared to recognize your child in a special way on their birthday. We do not permit food items brought from home for birthdays or birthday parties in the classroom. Special food treats and items (good bags) are not permitted. We must consider all students that may have food allergies. We do not permit invitations to be handed out as the school cannot be responsibility for lost or forgotten invitations. Due to confidentiality guidelines, we are not permitted to give out personal address and contact information. We will take extra efforts to create a fun and honoring recognition of each child on their special day. BOOKS All books are provided by VFCA for a curriculum rental fee. Books and tests acquired from other institutions are not acceptable and integrity in this matter is expected. Books remain the property of VFCA. Students should only write in books that are consumable as instructed by the teacher. All other books may not be marked in and should be handled with care to avoid paying replacement fees. At the end of the school year, books will be assessed for damage. Students’ accounts will be charged a replacement fee for books that are marked in, damaged, or lost. Damaged books become the property of the student or are discarded. If a student loses their book(s) during the school year, the parent will be notified, and book(s) will be provided; book fees will be posted to your account. CELL PHONE POLICY The cell phone policy is strictly enforced by faculty and staff members. • Students may not be in possession of a cell phone on school property or school sanctioned events at any time. Cell phones are not permitted during school, Before/Aftercare, or school sanctioned events (even at off campus locations). • “In possession” is defined as-in pockets, in purses, in lockers, in backpacks, etc. or anywhere on their person or anywhere on the school property. • This policy applies anytime students are on school grounds under VFCA supervision, which does include Before/Aftercare hours as well as the normal school day. This also applies to any school sanctioned event on or off campus locations. VFCA Handbook Page 11
• Students who drive must leave cell phones in their vehicles. They may not bring them in to the buildings. • Students who do not drive must leave their cell phones at home or with parents before entering the school. • Forgetting to turn the cell phone in to the office is not excusable and will be met with the same disciplinary action. • If a staff member suspect that a student is violating this school policy, staff members have full rights to search a student’s possessions or person for verification. A search may be conducted by emptying pockets, purses, backpacks, lockers, or shoes. Should a suspicion be confirmed because of a search, that student will face disciplinary action. Consequences for Violation of VFCA’s Cell Phone Policy • Students will not receive warnings about cell phones. • VFCA faculty and/or staff members may at any time ask a student to empty their pockets should cell phone possession be suspected. • Any student caught in violation of this policy (i.e., having a cell phone, iPod, iPad, etc.) will receive an automatic one-day suspension. Parents willbe notified and be expected to pick up the cell phone in person. • A repeated violation will result in a two-day suspension and zeros being given for any missed work. • A third violation could result in possible dismissal from the school. CHANGING CLASSES (7th-12th) There are five (5) minutes allowed between classes for the 7th-12th grades for restroom breaks, changing books, etc. No running, horseplay, or shouting is allowed in the hallway or in the classrooms. If a student causes a disturbance during the class change time, a teacher may turn in a disciplinary form. CHANGE IN CONTACT INFORMATION Every family is required to have an active email address. This is necessary for families to access RenWeb, our school information system (more information provided in the Communication section). Also, every family is required to provide multiple means by which they can be contacted in the event of an emergency, for example: phone numbers for work, home and cell, and email. Parents, please notify the office throughout the school year if you have a change in any contact information such as: address, email, home, work, or cell phone numbers. This information is crucial. In case of an emergency, the school must be able to contact you. CHAPEL Chapel services are special times set apart once a week for a corporate time of praise, worship, and Biblical instruction. We desire this time to be set aside for students to encounter God’s presence and know the importance of our school’s unity and community. Chapel will be held weekly with an emphasis on praising God through song and incorporating God’s Word into our daily lives. Chapel services are characterized by excitement, lively worship, active participation, and anointed messages. Chapels will be geared toward young people so students will have a zeal and excitement in their worship. Chapel services are facilitated by Pastors of Valley Fellowship Church and the administration. All students must attend chapel services. Students often participate and lead in chapel activities. Goals of our chapel services are as follows: • worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth • reinforcing important Biblical character traits and principles • encouraging students to dedicate their lives to God. • promoting each student’s commitment to life-long Bible learning • encouraging altar time in the presence of and in close communication with God • encouraging students to personally become more missions minded. • building school unity • student-led worship, as we have student availability. Chapels should not replace local church participation. Every student and family is expected to demonstrate faithful church attendance and participation. COMMUNICATION The VFCA Administration wants an open-door policy for school families, but please, call to schedule appointments. We desire input from our families as to how to improve our program. You can share your ideas, concerns, or suggestions at wecare@valleyfellowship.com. Communication between teachers and parents is a top priority. The administration and faculty desire to maintain a great level of communication. Teachers may be reached through email, voicemail, or office messages. Teachers will not be able to receive phone messages during class. They will return calls at their earliest convenience. If the matter is urgent, needing immediate attention, please contact the receptionist in the school office. Additionally, the following procedures have been incorporated to ensure good communication. Internet Communication - RenWeb VFCA utilizes a web-based school information system called RenWeb. This system helps to provide information to families in a timely manner. There are numerous benefits to families. The system provides parents immediate internet access to personalized items like lesson plans, classroom assignments, test schedules, grades, teacher comments, announcements, webpage data, lunch ordering system, schedules, account data, and account/payment information. Parents must provide the school with an active email address. RenWeb will provide the parents an access code through which they may access information for their student(s). Important: Students should not be allowed access to areas such as payments; therefore, it is important that parents monitor this carefully. RenWeb information is provided via the internet. It is a secure site. Parents and students may receive information through email. This web-based system has allowed the school to do away with most paper communications. VFCA is responsible to post the information and keep it as current as possible, but parents are required to check the site and their email on a regular basis. Please: Parents have the responsibility to check for information posted or sent via email by VFCA or a teacher. VFCA is not responsible to make parents check the site or their email. Page 12
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