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Introduction to Northern Michigan Christian School
Mission Statement
Northern Michigan Christian School is a Christ-centered learning
community developing gifts for discernment and discipleship.
Past and Present
Parents committed to Christian education founded NMCS more than 90
years ago, and parents continue to lead the school today. It offers a
Christ-centered education for students in Wexford, Missaukee, and Osceola
counties. NMCS is a solid, progressive pre-K through 12th grade school
with about 350 students, currently representing over 10 different Christian
denominations. NMCS has a tradition of financial stability and quality
facilities, providing the physical and financial framework to complete its
mission. NMCS is accredited by Christian Schools International and
North Central Association.
Statement of Purpose
The Christian education available at Northern Michigan Christian School is
an unconditional and wholehearted commitment to the proposition that all
things are of God, through God, and unto God. Young people are image
bearers of God and must develop spiritually as well as mentally and
physically. Therefore it is our aim throughout every part of the school
experience to attain a God-centered education. In the elementary
classrooms, we have a program which provides daily instruction for our
children and is directed to the end that our children may fulfill their callings
worthily in society, church and state – transforming culture in the name of
Christ. In the middle school and high school, through special Bible classes,
distinctive God-centered orientation in all classes, chapel, prayer, and
human relationships we attempt to glorify God and make each of us more
aware of our sovereign God who sustains us all. We are dedicated to
providing an excellent quality Christ-centered education that is Christian in
its basis, its goals, and its methods.
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General Information
Faculty and Staff
SCHOOL
POSITION NAME HOME EXTENSION
Superintendent/Devel./Mktg. Mr. Rick Klooster 577-1383 103
Principal, PreK-12/Admissions Mrs. Marilyn Visser 825-2060 105
Career Counselor Mr. Dave VanHaitsma 825-2603 107
Athletic Director Mr. Dave Skinner 920-1278 104
Pre-School-3 & 4 year olds Mrs. Amy Smallegan 775-5439 212
Pre-School-Young 5's Mrs. Robin DeKoekkoek 826-3735 213
Kindergarten Mrs. Bette Dick 825-0205 214
1st Grade Ms. Deb Deur 825-2683 215
2nd Grade Mrs. Tammy Koetje 826-3835 216
3rd Grade Mrs. Carol Buning 826-3678 218
4th Grade Mrs. Barb VanHaitsma 779-2852 219
5th Grade Mr. David Skinner 920-1278 104
5&6Lang Arts,Bible 6,HS Spanish Mr. Scott Curell 832-1555 201
6 Sci,7 Hist/Geog, 7-8-HS Eng. Mr. Dirk Walhout 825-4022 202
MS Math, Geometry, FST Mrs. Deb Heeres 775-5389 203
7-8Bible,Alg1,2, Actg 1, MS chapel Mr. Andrew Busch 825-2105 208
8-9 History, HS Bible, HS chapel Mr. Jeff Stoel (219)863-1962 205
Elementary Special Needs Mrs. Pam Smallegan 825-2504 115
H.S./M.S. Special Education Mrs. RoxAnne Evison 779-2868 222
El/MS Music, HS Choir & Band Mrs. Shelly Jenema 825-4055 206
El PE,7,8,9,10 PE/Health,Pers Fin Mr. Jeff Van Noord 779-0445 207
HS Eng., Curriculum Coord. Mr. Randy Heeres 775-5389 204
7-8-HS Sci,HSChem,Biol,Physics Mr. Bernie Mulder 825-2034 209
HS Social Studies, Applied Math Mr. Dave VanHaitsma 825-2603 107
K-12 Art, 6th History Mrs. Julie DeBoer 839-4544 221
1-8 Computer, Digital Imaging, Mrs. Nancee Wilson 825-8191 110
Publications, Tech Support
Finance Secretary Mrs. Karen Benthem 825-8182 106
Office Secretary Mrs. Lori Dodde 328-4932 101
Athletic/Development Secretary Mrs. Julie VanHaitsma 825-2603 102
Assistant Financial Secretary Mrs. Mary Jane Vandenberg 768-4364 106
El/MS Librarian Mrs. Marlene Boven 826-3392 223
Food Service Director Mrs. Sandy Bode 825-2271 112
T.R.I.P. Coordinator Mrs. Skip Pluger 825-2800 113
Custodial/Transportation Supv. Mr. John Netz 825-8226 111
Maint/Grounds/Bus Driver Mr. Kurt Borchers 775-2329 224
Custodian/Maintenance Mr. Jason Netz 825-8226
All faculty and administrative staff have e-mail.
The address is: first initial last name @nmcs.us Example: rklooster@nmcs.us
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Hot Lunch Program
• The school operates a hot lunch program for its students. Nutritionally
balanced lunches with a choice of white or chocolate milk are made
available every FULL day of school. No hot lunches are served on ½
days of school. Milk only may be purchased by students who prefer to
bring their own lunches on occasions. Menus are provided for each
month. Students are asked to purchase their lunches for the week each
Monday, or the first day school is held that week. Elementary students
purchase them in their classrooms, middle school students in their
homeroom, and high school students during morning break in the office.
• COST: $2.00 per day for hot lunch for 6th-12th grade students
$1.75 per day for hot lunch for K-5th grade students
.50 for chocolate milk or white milk
• Information, financial guidelines, and application forms for free and
reduced price hot lunches will be sent home the first week of school.
Families can make an application for free or reduced price hot lunches
anytime during the school year.
• If your child has a milk allergy, a written statement from your doctor
concerning the allergy will allow your child to drink juice for lunch.
• Students must choose at least four of the five components of the school
lunch in order to claim the lunch for reimbursement. Meal components
include: meat or meat alternate, vegetable, fruit, bread or bread
alternate, and milk.
• NOTE: Parents are encouraged to discuss the menu with their children.
Children should indicate to the cooks, when their tray is being filled, if there is
an item they wish to omit; otherwise, all items will be placed on the tray.
• For 5th grade through high school students, a la carte choices are
available to purchase. A la carte choices will be published about a week
in advance in the Open Line newsletter.
• Elementary students may not go into the high school to buy pop while
they are under the care of teachers.
School Supplies/Textbooks
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
Parent Volunteer Opportunities
Parents of elementary students will be given various opportunities to
volunteer their services and thereby be more involved in their child’s
education. Each classroom teacher will send home a letter inviting parents
to volunteer for one or two needs such as listening to students read, helping
with classroom projects or in the library, organizing the Christmas party,
chaperoning field trips or doing lunchroom duty.
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Volunteer Program
NMCS parents are involved in many volunteer projects which help make us
an excellent, accessible school. Without your involvement, tuition would
make attendance prohibitive and our program offerings scant. This
volunteer system will allow you to use your God-given gifts and talents as
you choose the projects you would like to work on and thereby feel more
comfortable and positive about your volunteered time. The volunteer
program is limited to projects that make money or save NMCS money. The
number of points assigned to a project is based on the hours needed to
complete the project and the responsibility a position holds.
1. Parents who both live in the home are asked to volunteer 25 points.
2. A single parent needs to volunteer 13 points.
3. Parents with only a kindergartener are asked to volunteer 13 points.
4. If you cannot be at the project for which you volunteered, you may
arrange for an adult substitute to work for you.
5. If you choose not to participate in this program, you will be assessed
$300, payable by October. ($150 for single parents and parents of only a
kindergartener.) If the money is not paid in October, the amount due
the program will be kept on file. All outstanding bills must be paid
before transcripts can be sent to another school or to a college.
6. If parents fulfill only a portion of their volunteer time, they will be
assessed the corresponding pro-rated amount of $300.
Parent Concern Report
As with all the principles found in the Bible, when applied properly the
principles in Matthew 18 work. In keeping with those principles, if you have
a concern with a faculty member, staff member, coach or anyone else
associated with Northern Michigan Christian School, your responsibility is
to meet with that person and communicate your concern in love. If
following that meeting you are or the other party is dissatisfied with the
conclusions drawn together, you are invited to make an appointment with
that person’s supervisor and, with that person present, discuss your concern.
If there are still concerns after that point, a parent concern form may be filled
out and submitted to the administrator to be put in that faculty/staff
member’s file. While we recognize that this is sometimes difficult, it is
absolutely Biblical and must be adhered to strictly. Please remember to
“bathe” all of these meetings in prayer.
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Curriculum
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections for specifics)
The curriculum of NMCS is the medium through which our children are
oriented to a life in Christ and to the culture of this world for fellowship with
and service to God in this world and the next. The curriculum and total
atmosphere of the school aim to develop each child’s spiritual, emotional,
intellectual, social and physical dimensions.
The Christian teacher is central to the Christian education program. NMCS
teachers are dedicated Christians who are Christian models for their students.
NMCS teachers are led by God to lead and guide their students so that each
child has the opportunity to develop his/her talents to their fullest potential to
God’s honor and glory.
Academic Services
Parent-Teacher Communication EdLine is our comprehensive K-12 web
host. Every parent will be given a unique user account through which they
will have access to personalized information about each of their students.
Parents will have access to homework assignments, test schedules, grades,
athletic schedules, and attendance and demerit records. E-mail
communication will be enhanced by the e-mail address book included for
each class listing.
Grading and Report Cards
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
Parent-Teacher Conferences
In grades K-8, Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for each child in
the fall and spring. Parents and teachers are encouraged to e-mail or
telephone to request a conference any time they find one necessary. High
School conferences are held in the teacher’s classroom. Parents are
encouraged to attend but appointments are not scheduled.
Student Records
A record of each student’s progress is kept on file in the main office. Upon
request, a parent may go over this record with the student’s teacher(s) or
other certified school personnel.
Library
(See Elementary and Middle School sections.)
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School Policies
Dress Code
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
NMCS’s dress code reflects the following values:
1. Our love and respect for God. The way we choose to dress can
either reflect the humility and modesty that honors God or shroud
His image in us.
2. Our love and respect for each other. We will not be a stumbling
block or temptation to others by flaunting our sexuality in the way
we choose to dress.
3. Our desire is to be a witness for God in our community and agents
of change in our culture. When fashion trends dishonor God we
will choose to dress differently to indicate that we belong to Him.
4. Our desire is to provide an education of the highest quality. We
will not allow irresponsible clothing choices to compromise an
optimal learning environment.
5. Each student is infinitely valuable to God regardless of his/her
socio-economic status. Therefore, we will not “dress to impress.”
Medicines
In accordance with state laws and teacher and school liability, the school and
its personnel are not permitted to dispense any over-the-counter medication
or prescription drugs without the permission of a parent or guardian.
Permission forms for dispensing medications are on your Enrollment form.
If the parent/guardian chooses to write a note it must include the name of the
student, name of medication, dosage, time to be administered, and duration
of administration. Students will NOT be allowed to self-administer any
medication.
Attendance
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
Weather Conditions
If weather conditions in the morning make transportation to school
questionable, school closing will be announced over radio stations WKHQ
105.9, WKJF 92.9 (1370 AM), WOLW 91.1, WTCM 103.5, and TV
Channels 7 and 9 as early a possible. NMCS usually follows the
recommendation of McBain Public School.
If a tornado watch or warning occurs during school hours the students will
be kept at school until the conditions are safe for sending the students home.
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Non -permissible Items
Students in kindergarten through 12th grade are not allowed to take hard
balls, water (squirt) guns, knives or weapons of any kind to school. The law
requires the school to report to a parent or guardian and the local law
enforcement agency if a dangerous weapon is found in the possession of
a student. Cell phones, radios, DVD/CD players, I-Pods, MP-3 players, etc.
are not allowed to be used or even visible during the school day. Failure to
comply will result in the confiscation of the item. Lost and stolen items are
not the responsibility of the school.
Computer/Internet Use
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
Films
Films that may be considered potentially controversial because of language
or violence or similar features will not be used in class without advance
notification of parents.
Human Dignity Policy
Northern Michigan Christian School intends to provide its staff members and
students with a safe, Spirit-filled environment, one that is free from offensive
kinds of behavior. Conduct – whether intentional or unintentional – that
subjects another person to unwanted attention, comments, or actions because
of race, national origin, age, sex, physical characteristics, or disability is not
permitted. Instead, we expect all persons to treat each other with respect
because they are created to reflect God himself.
• We do not condone or allow harassment of others by teachers,
administrators, support staff, students, or other persons both at school or
school events.
• Any person who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment
should report it immediately to an appropriate superior. Students may
report to a teacher, administrator, or counselor. Teachers should report
an offense to their administrator, or if it is the administrator he or she is
reporting, to the chairperson of the board of trustees. Each report will
be given serious consideration and appropriate investigation.
• Reports of harassment and subsequent investigations will be handled
discreetly to avoid embarrassment of the person making the report or a
person who may be unjustly accused.
• Any person who is determined to have violated this policy will be
subject to disciplinary action including the possibility of employment
termination (for staff members) or expulsion (for students).
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• Sexual harassment includes: making unwelcome sexual advances,
engaging in improper physical contact, making improper sexual
comments, writing a note to someone else, either electronically or by
hand, with content that may be construed sexual, or using words (written
or spoken), pictures, objects, gestures or actions relating to sexual
activity to create a sexually intimidating, hostile, offensive learning or
working environment.
• Any other form of ridicule of others based on race, physical
characteristics, ability, family background or similar feature is
harassment. Persons engaging in this misbehavior will be disciplined.
• All students and all school employees are expected to conduct
themselves with respect for the dignity of others.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Northern Michigan Christian School has established policy which prohibits
discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender or national and ethnic
origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies,
athletics and other school-administered programs.
Lockdown Procedures
The Lockdown Policy of NMCS has been created to establish a procedure
that outlines employee and student responsibilities in response to violent or
potentially violent critical incidents that may occur on or near school
property. (The entire Crisis Management Plan is available in the school
office.) In the event of an evacuation, K-8 students will be bussed to the
Lake City Christian Reformed church and high school students will go to
the McBain Christian Reformed church.
Student Conduct/Behavior
School Property
(See Elementary, Middle School, High School sections)
Student Information and Guidelines
Electronics-Free Zone
Student-owned electronic devices such as cell phones, radios, DVD/CD
players, I-Pods, MP-3 players are not to be used or visible after students
enter the building in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. High school
students, only, are allowed to make cell phone calls during noon break. If
an electronic device is used, a teacher may take it from the student and
Mrs. Visser will keep it for the remainder of the day. On the second offense,
the electronic device is kept for a week.
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Telephone Use
Use of the school office phone will be limited to emergencies only. Cell
phones are not allowed in the classroom. Cell phones that ring or vibrate
during class will be taken for the remainder of the day.
Bussing
The student’s responsibility while riding a bus is the same for riding our own
bus or riding those of the public schools. We believe it is our Christian
responsibility to co-operate with the driver so that he/she can concentrate on
his/her driving responsibilities for a safe trip. In order to have a standard set
of rules we are reminding you of these rules which we will follow:
• Occupy the seat assigned by the driver and refrain at ALL times from
moving around while the bus is in motion.
• Observe classroom conduct while getting on and off the bus.
• Obey the driver cheerfully.
• Be prompt morning and evening so that the schedules can be
maintained.
• Stay off the roadway at all times while waiting for the bus.
• Leave the bus only at the consent of the driver.
• Keep hands and head inside the bus at all times.
• Inform the driver if the student expects to be absent from school.
• Keep the bus clean, sanitary and orderly.
• Elementary students will board their assigned bus each afternoon unless
the teacher is given a note signed by the parent with different directions.
Playground Supervision
Playground rules
• No climbing on or over the fences
• No baseballs may be used.
• No climbing trees.
• The playground is entirely enclosed by a fence. Students may not leave
the fenced area without teacher permission.
• No dangerous play; i.e., tackle games of any kind, no “chicken” on the
horizontal ladder or “king of the mountain.”
• Trash taken outside must be disposed of in the trash cans provided.
• No loitering in bathrooms or hallways during break times. Students
arriving early must be outside by 8:00 a.m. When outside, students are
to stay outside unless given permission by the supervising teacher to
come in.
• Students are to respect each other’s play areas and snow forts.
• Supervising teachers must report injuries that may require medical
attention to the principal and fill out an accident report.
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Gymnasium Supervision
• All playground rules also generally apply to gym recess activities.
• Equipment for recess activities from the elementary P.E. room includes
the jump ropes, scooter boards, and balls on the ball racks. Physical
education equipment may not be taken out during gym recess.
• Students may not kick any balls.
• No climbing the bleachers, not even to retrieve equipment.
• East ½ of gym will generally be used for scooter boards and jump ropes;
west ½ is for “ball” games.
• Students may not go behind the curtains in the stage area.
• Non-marking gym shoes only must be used in the gym. Be aware of
any marking of the floor.
• Ceiling tiles broken due to student negligence will be replaced by the
student at a cost of $15.
Hallway Use
During the school day, students will travel to classes outside of their
respective hallways. Class travel must be quiet so that classes in progress
will not be disturbed. If just one or two students travel to a hallway that is
not their own, he or they must carry a permission slip to access the hallway.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
School Hours-Schedule
Kindergarten 8:13 Bell
through 2nd grade 8:20 Start
10:20-10:40 Recess
12:05-1:05 Lunch Hour
2:50 Dismissal
Grades 3-5: 8:13 Bell
8:20 Start
11:10-11:30 Lunch
11:30-12:00 Lunch break
1:15-1:30 Recess
2:50 Dismissal
Pupils are expected to spend the time before school and during recess and
noon hour out-of-doors. In case of inclement weather, or very cold weather
students will remain in school. The wind chill index as well as temperature
will be considered.
School Supplies/Textbooks
• All textbooks, workbooks and an NIV Bible (beginning at grade 3)
are supplied by the school. Cost for lost or carelessly damaged
textbooks, workbooks, or library books will be charged to the
student.
• Parents are requested to purchase the following equipment for their
children: scissors ( Fiskars is the best), glue stick, #2 lead pencils,
crayons (16 count is fine), pencil top erasers, 1 large box of
kleenex/semester, a pocket folder for take home work and
information, non scuff tennis shoes to be left at school, and a back
pack small enough to fit inside our lockers. Each student will need
to bring an art shirt – an old shirt of mom or dad.
• Book service: Various companies offer books for student purchase.
These are made available a few times during the year for
elementary students because they offer some good books at very
reasonable prices. However, in no way can we evaluate these
books, other than the information given in the brochure which
accompanies the order form. Therefore, the books a student
receives are ordered at his/her parents’ discretion. We are not
recommending that students purchase books through this service,
but we are only making it available to them.
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Curriculum
• Each day, time is spent in classroom devotions. This includes singing
songs of praise, sharing the wonders of God’s grace, scripture reading,
Bible storytelling, and prayer. Class devotions are also held before
lunch and before dismissal. Students are encouraged to lead many of
the devotions.
• Values and insights which represent a Reformed Christian worldview
are integrated into all instruction. First of all, children must know who
God is. This includes a study of the attributes of God the Father, Jesus
as our example, and the Holy Spirit as our guide. From this study flows
the need to respond to who God is. Students must desire to restore
creation, social relationships and their personal relationship with God.
• Counseling services are available. The service addresses crisis
assistance, preventive programs and support groups. Parents and/or
teachers may refer students to the counselor, and students themselves
may seek counseling. Parents will sign a consent form allowing their
student to see the counselor for more than one consecutive visit.
Academic Services
Grading Codes and Report Cards
Report cards are issued every nine weeks. Signed envelopes must be
returned within one week of the issued report.
Codes: M= Meets expectations
S= Steady progress
T= Needs time and help to develop
TS= Combination of T and S
W= Could do better work
WS= Combination of W and S
Library
The NMCS Elementary Library, with over 3,000 books, is available to
students in grades K-8. To maintain the number and quality of the materials,
we will charge replacement cost for all lost books.
Community Library
NMCS Elementary students visit the McBain Community Library in order
to have access to more Accelerated Reading books for which we test.
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School Policies
Elementary Parties
If students have birthday parties, the feelings of all other students in the
classroom should be considered. Please do not leave out just one or two
boys or girls of a classroom.
Dress Code
Because we are made in God’s image, we are to reflect that image in our
mode of dress. All students are to exercise modesty, cleanliness, and
neatness in apparel and grooming. Clothing should not display inappropriate
messages. Girls’ shirts must meet their pants when their arms are raised.
Muscle shirts, halter tops, spaghetti-strapped shirts (or imitations) and
clothing with inappropriate slogans or pictures will not be tolerated.
Non-Permissible Items
Elementary students are not allowed to take hard balls, water (squirt) guns,
knives, or weapons of any kind to school. The law requires the school to
report to a parent or guardian and the local law enforcement agency if a
dangerous weapon is found in the possession of a student.
Radios, cell phones, DVD/CD players, I-Pods, MP-3 players, etc. are not
allowed to be used during the school day. Lost and stolen items are not the
responsibility of the school.
Students may not wear heelies to school.
Snowballs/iceballs may not be thrown while students are at school.
Trading
Students may not bring items from home to trade with friends. Often parents
have not approved of the exchange.
Attendance
All students are expected to be in attendance each school day.
• In the event of illness, the parent should notify the school by phone
before 9:00 a.m. of the morning the child is absent stating the type
of illness.
• If, for any reason, a student must remain indoors, he/she must present a
written request signed by his/her parents.
• If a student must be absent because of a planned dentist or doctor
appointment (these should be avoided as much as possible), the student must
present an excuse to his/her teacher in advance.
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• For your child’s protection please come into the school office to report
that you are taking your child out of school during the school day. Your
child may be waiting in the office for you, or you may go down to the
classroom to get your child. Be sure to inform the teacher that you are
taking your child.
• The school does not encourage vacations during school days. By
consulting the school calendar, such planned vacations may be avoided.
If such an absence must occur, parents may request make-up work by
notifying the student’s teacher a week in advance and up to three days of
school work will be prepared. It is the responsibility of the student to
make up any work missed.
• Students should not arrive at school before 7:50 a.m.
Elementary Class Trips
The form for permission to attend a class trip is on your Enrollment sheet
and must be signed each year when you register your child for school. The
student is then allowed to leave the school grounds for the trip during a
regular school day.
Computer/Internet Use
Elementary students may only access the internet under teacher supervision.
Student Conduct/Behavior
NMCS trains its students in Christ-like living. We are to honor God in all
we do. This means respecting God, those around us, and His creation. If
students do not display this behavior, teachers will first of all work with the
student to change the needed behavior, and then ask the principal and parents
for help as needed.
A verbal or written threat such as “I’ll kill you” will not be tolerated. The
administration will take this phrase as a serious threat. A meeting with
parents, the student and the administrator will be held to determine
consequences. The consequence can range from warnings to an in-house
suspension.
School Property
Students must respect school property. If students purposely destroy school
property, they will be asked to help pay for repairs. If students misuse or
damage the door closure or door frames of any school doorways including
bathrooms (hanging on doors, jumping up to hit braces, shoving others
against partitions, etc.) they will be asked to bring in $10 to help cover
maintenance costs. In addition, physical work may be given.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
Monday-Friday
8:10 Alert Bell
8:13-8:55 1st hour (8:51 on Wednesday)
8:58-9:36 2nd hour
9:39-9:55 Devotions (Chapel on Friday)
9:58-10:37 3rd hour
10:40-11:15 Lunch and Break
11:18-12:01 4th hour
12:04-12:46 5th hour
12:46-12:56 Recess
12:59-1:42 6th hour
1:45-2:27 7th hour
2:30-2:53 Study Hall
2:55 Dismissal
3:00 Buses leave
School Hours/Schedule
Students should not arrive at school before 7:50 a.m. and may not go into the
gym before 8:00 a.m. After school, students waiting for lessons or any
scheduled after-school programs may use the south lobby, the cafeteria, or
the middle school booths.
Pupils are expected to spend the time before school and during recess and
noon hour out-of-doors. In case of inclement or very cold weather, students
will remain in school. The wind chill index as well as temperature will be
considered.
Personal and Spiritual Development
Devotions
Time each morning is spent in classroom devotions. This includes sharing,
interactions in prayer, and Scripture reading. Classroom devotions are also
held before lunch and dismissal.
Chapel
Every Friday a fifteen-minute period is planned for chapel. Students,
teachers, visiting speakers and various activities are included.
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Counseling
Counseling services are available and address crisis assistance, preventive
programs, and support groups. Parents and/or teachers may refer students to
the counselor, and students themselves may seek counseling. Parents will
sign a consent form allowing their student to see the counselor for more than
one consecutive visit.
Academics
Curriculum
6th Grade Core Classes:
Bible—Language Arts—Math—Ancient History—Science
7th Grade Core Classes:
Bible—Language Arts—Math—Health—U.S. History—Science
8th Grade Core Classes:
Bible—Language Arts—Math—Health—U.S. History—Science
Each grade also takes Keyboarding, Art, and P.E. All sixth graders take
music, but band is optional. Music and band are optional for seventh and
eighth graders. A curriculum guide and yearly mapping for each class is
available at the principal’s office. Values and insights which represent a
Reformed Christian perspective are integrated into all instruction.
Although the foundation for the curriculum objectives has been stated, the
specifics for each class have not. For the specific objectives, each teacher or
the office may be contacted. Parent/teacher communication exchanges may
clarify questions and are always encouraged.
Textbooks
No fee is charged for textbooks, but students are responsible for proper book
care. Textbooks will be evaluated at the beginning and the end of the school
year. Although normal use wear is expected, a usage charge will be
collected for books that are lost or returned with undue damage. Most
textbooks are numbered for convenience. Every student is expected to use
and to return the book they were assigned.
Supplies
Students are responsible to buy all supplies (paper, pens, pencils, etc.)
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Report Cards and Progress Reports
• Report cards are issued every nine weeks. Please view the report on
Edline or it will be sent home in an envelope which you should sign and
return within one week after being distributed.
• Progress reports are prepared for parents at the midway point of each
marking period if the student is performing at or below a D+ at that time
or at the discretion of the teacher. These reports can be viewed on
Edline or will be mailed to your home. Parents and students are then
responsible for communication with the teacher(s).
Honor Roll and Honorable Mention
• Honor Roll
The purpose of the honor roll is to recognize and celebrate the academic
gifts and accomplishments of our students. Some students achieve the
accomplishments because of their gifts of intelligence, others because of
diligence, most because of a combination of both. Since the school is
primarily an academic institution, it is appropriate to recognize and
celebrate these gifts and accomplishments just as we recognize other
gifts and accomplishments in other ways.
Qualifications:
1. No grades below B-.
2. Marking period grade point of at least 3.0, no grade below C, and
no more than one grade below B-.
• Honorable Mention
The purpose of honorable mention is to recognize students who have not
qualified for the honor roll, but who have made an exemplary attempt to
use their gifts in the school setting. Students will be named for
honorable mention by their classroom teacher(s). All regular 6th, 7th and
8th grade teachers must agree to name a student to honorable mention.
Qualifications: To be considered for honorable mention, students must
1. Have no failing grades
2. Ordinarily, have a marking period grade point of at least 1.7 (C-)
3. Be recommended by the regular 6th, 7th and 8th grade teachers based
on the following criteria:
a. The student’s grade in relation to his/her ability
b. The student’s effort and diligence
c. The student’s behavior (Students who have received over 4
demerits for the marking period will be automatically
disqualified. Students receiving 3 or fewer demerits may be
disqualified.)
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Middle School Grading Scale
Grade Percentage
A 93-100
A- 90-92.99
B+ 87-89.99
B 83-86.99
B- 80-82.99
C+ 77-79.99
C 73-76.99
C- 70-72.99
D+ 67-69.99
D 63-66.99
D- 60-62.99
E 0-59.99 (failing)
Athletic Eligibility
• Evaluation is made on a weekly basis (Tuesday-Monday). A passing
performance is required in all subjects. Cooperation and responsible
behavior in the classroom and all school activities is required.
Evaluation for satisfactory performance of each student will be made by
the faculty with individual consideration given to abilities.
• Evaluation will be made of work from Tuesday-Monday. A new notice
will be posted each Tuesday. A student failing to meet minimal
standards of behavior or performance may be declared ineligible for the
game(s) of Tuesday through Monday the following week.
Exams
At the end of the year, exams will be given to 7th and 8th graders in English
and Math.
Library
The NMCS Elementary/Middle School Library, with over 3,000 books, is
available to students in grades K-8. To maintain the number and quality of
the materials, we will charge replacement cost for all lost books.
Attendance
Missed Work Due to Sickness, Appointment or a Planned Absence
• Students planning to be absent must alert the teacher(s) of the plan by
bringing a signed note from their parent. These students may ask for
homework in advance. However, they will need to arrange a time to
meet with their teacher(s) so the assignments can be explained. When
returning to school, they need to ask if there were any changes in the
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assignment and/or if they have any additional assignments to complete.
This should be done within two days of their return. If necessary, they
should present a planned schedule for the completion of work.
• Students must show teachers a written schedule of when they will make
up tests/quizzes and missed assignments due to a planned extended
absence or an absence due to illness or a doctor’s appointment. Students
failing to make up the work according to their schedule will have the
work graded as zero unless the student makes new arrangements with
the teacher before their due date.
• Tests/quizzes should be made up after school on the Thursday following
the absence unless other arrangements between the student and teacher
concerned can be made. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate
arrangements; otherwise it is assumed she/he will be present on the
make-up day. Work not completed by the end of the make-up session
will no longer be accepted and will be graded as zero.
• If parents request make-up work for a sick student, the request must be
made by 10:15 a.m. or better yet, by e-mail to each teacher by 10:15
a.m. – just before the middle school lunch hour.
• If a student has incomplete work at the end of the marking period,
she/he will receive an “I” or Incomplete on the report card in that class.
If that work is not completed within one week, the grade on the report
card will become an “E.”
Excused Absence
An excuse is expected by a parent phone call on the day of the absence
before 9:00 a.m. Students coming late to school must present a signed
excuse from parents or a parent must call school within 48 hours of the
absence (the answering machine is on 24 hours per day). Failure to do so
will result in a demerit.
Unexcused Absence
An unexcused absence from any one class period results in a detention.
Early Departure
Students who must leave during the school day must give a note from their
parent to the first-hour teacher at the start of the day.
Signing In and Out
Students coming or leaving after the school day has begun must sign in or
out at the main office. Failure to do so will result in a demerit.
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Vacations
The school does not encourage a vacation during school days. By consulting
the school calendar, many vacations during scheduled school days can be
avoided. If such an absence needs to occur, the parent should notify the
student’s teacher in advance. It is the responsibility of the student to make
up any work missed within two weeks of the day returned.
Student Conduct/Behavior/Guidelines
General Principle
Jesus requires us to love our neighbor. At NMCS we are all neighbors, both
teachers and students. This means that the way we treat each other should
reflect the love of Christ. The key word in our relationships should be
RESPECT. Students must respect the image of God in each person, respect
the school's and other's property, and refrain from profane, vulgar, rude and
obscene talk or gesture. A threat such as "I'll kill you" will not be tolerated.
The administration will take this phrase as a serious threat. A meeting with
parents, the student and the administrator will be held to determine a penalty.
The consequence can range from a warning to an in-house suspension.
Dress Code
How students dress reveals much about their attitudes toward life, respect for
themselves, for others, and for God. At NMC Middle School, all students
are expected to exercise modesty in apparel and grooming. Extremes in
dress and styles should be avoided. Girls’ shirts must meet their pants when
their arms are raised. The shoulder width of girls’ apparel must be at least
1½ inches. This width may not be made by wearing a few different spaghetti
strapped shirts and adding their width. Muscle shirts are not tolerated for
boys, along with shirts having inappropriate slogans or pictures for all
students. Students may not wear hats inside the building.
School Property
• Each student should keep school property in the best possible condition.
• Receptacles are provided around the school grounds for litter.
• Lunch material does not leave the cafeteria.
• Sports equipment should be properly used and returned.
• Gym:
1. Students should not be in the gym without appropriate gym shoes.
2. Gym equipment should be treated with care and respect. Climbing up
bleachers that are closed is forbidden; this climbing may cause
permanent damage to the bleachers. Students may not pull bleachers
and sit on them.
3. Students may not play in or behind the stage curtain.
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• Hall:
1. Students should try to avoid tracking in excess mud and snow.
2. Belongings are to be kept in the lockers or designated storage spaces.
3. Students should keep lockers closed.
• Rooms:
1. Each student is responsible for keeping a clean desk.
2. Supplies are to be used and returned properly.
• Damage to school property:
If students damage or weaken school property, he/she will be assessed
the replacement cost of the damaged property. (eg. $15 for gym ceiling
tiles) or a fee for the weakened property ($10 for hanging on a basketball
rim.)
Demerits and Detentions
When students do not demonstrate respect or engage in unacceptable
behavior the following disciplinary action may be taken:
• Demerits: Behavioral demerits may be given to any student who
violates minor school rules. Students who receive three (3) demerits
within a running six weeks period may be given an isolated noon break
and a parent conference will be held (by phone or in person). Skipping
an isolated lunch may result in another demerit. Students who receive
four (4) demerits within this time may be issued a detention. Detentions
will be served after parents have been informed.
• Demerit examples: Disrespect for people and property, tardies, lunch
room disruptions, not having a pass when in the hallway, having pop
and/or food in carpeted areas, repeated corrections (running in school,
wearing caps, cutting in lunch line, etc.).
• Detentions may be given to any student who fails to comply with major
school rules and policies. Sixth, seventh and eighth grade detentions will
usually be served on Thursdays from 3:00-3:40 p.m. A parent or adult
must then pick up the student from the office.
• Detention Examples: Profanity/vulgarity, teacher/adult disrespect, or
removal from class by an instructor, cheating, etc.
Cheating
In addition to a detention, students who have cheated must redo the
assignment or test and the grade given will then be lowered two steps (for
example, a B- lowered to a C).
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Substance Abuse
NMCS expects its students to abstain from any use of the following
substances: illegal drugs, including alcohol and tobacco. The possession
and/or use of alcohol is illegal according to the law of the State of Michigan.
When a reliable source witnesses and reports your illegal use of drugs
including alcohol, the offense will result in:
• The first offense may result in a three week loss of privileges such as
participating in extra-curricular activities (practices and presentations or
games) or any special school-sponsored activities. The student will
participate in counseling sessions with a member of the school staff.
• The second offense may result in an eight week loss of privileges such
as participating in extra-curricular activities (practices, games or
presentations) or any special school-sponsored activities. A “drug
education awareness” program may be required.
• The third offense may include additional corrective measures up to and
including expulsion from school.
Non-permissible Items
Middle school students are not allowed to take hard balls, water (squirt)
guns, knives or weapons of any kind to school. The law requires the
school to report to a parent or guardian and the local law enforcement
agency if a dangerous weapon is found in the possession of a student.
Cell phones, radios, DVD/CD players, I-Pods, MP-3 players, etc. are not
allowed to be used or even visible after a student enters the building in the
morning until 3:00 p.m. If an electronic device is used, a teacher may take it
from the student and Mrs. Visser will keep it for the remainder of the day.
On the second offense, the electronic device is kept for a week.
Lost and stolen items are not the responsibility of the school.
Computer/Internet Use
When a teacher is not in the computer lab, students must receive written
permission in order to use the computers for class work. Students may use
the internet if a teacher is in the room with them. No e-mail accounts may
be used or accessed at school. Abuse of computer and internet use will
result in computer privileges being taken away.
Visitors
Student visitors will be allowed with advance administration approval.
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HIGH SCHOOL
School Hours-Schedule
MON/TUES/THURS/FRI CHAPEL-WEDNESDAY
8:10 First bell 8:10 First bell
8:13-8:58 1st period 8:13-8:55 1st period
9:01-9:46 2nd period 8:58-9:34 2nd period
9:37-10:07 CHAPEL
9:46 - 9:52 BREAK 10:07-10:12 BREAK
9:55-10:42 3rd period 10:15-10:52 3rd period
10:45-11:31 4th period 10:55-11:31 4th period
11:31-12:01 LUNCH 11:31-12:01 LUNCH
12:04-12:48 5th period 12:04-12:48 5th period
12:52-1:36 6th period 12:52 -1:36 6th period
1:36-1:41 BREAK 1:36- 1:41 BREAK
1:44-2:28 7th period 1:44- 2:28 7th period
2:32-2:53 8th period 2:32 -2:53 8th period
Curriculum
A complete list of high school courses is available from the Guidance
Counselor or the school website (www.nmcs.us).
Chapels and Devotions
Chapels are held every Wednesday for the high school. The Spiritual Life
Committee, consisting of students with a teacher-advisor, plans and
organizes the chapels, which often feature guest speakers, student or teacher
presenters, music and drama. NMCHS features prayer throughout, including
at the beginning and end of the day.
Counseling
Counseling services are available. The service addresses crisis assistance,
preventive programs, and support groups. Parents and/or teachers may refer
students to the counselor, and students themselves may seek counseling.
Parents will sign a consent form allowing their student to see the counselor
for more than one consecutive visit.
Textbooks and Supplies
High school textbooks are provided for the student for each course in which
they are registered. A $75 fee per student is assessed each year. This bill
must be paid in order to receive report cards. All textbooks and some
workbooks must be returned to the school.
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Graduation Requirements
• Units of credit: One unit of credit is earned with the successful completion
of a class that is scheduled to meet five regular class periods per week for
the entire school year. One-semester classes receive ½ unit of credit.
Career Technical Center students receive 3 units of credit per year.
• Graduation requirements:
1. Minimum requirements for graduation from high school
include successful completion of 22 units of credit.
The required courses are 3 credits of English, 2 credits of Math,
2 credits of Bible, ½ credit of Physical Education, 2 credits of
Science, ½ credit of Health, 2 credits of History, ½ credit of
Government, and ½ credit of Computer.
2. Because High School is also a journey for experiencing relationships,
nurture and social growth, NMCHS requires students to attend
school for eight semesters. On rare occasions an exception may be
made; however, the student granted such an exception will not
qualify for academic honors.
• For a complete list and description of NMCHS courses contact the high
school counselor’s office for a catalog or visit the NMCS website
(www.nmcs.us).
• Minimum class load: Students must be working toward a minimum of
6 units of credit during each year of high school, unless special
permission has been granted for fewer. No student should have more
than one study period per day, excluding 3rd hour band days when choir
does not meet and excluding the shortened 8th period.
• Changing or dropping classes: Classes may be added or dropped only
during the first three weeks of the class. Prior to any such change in the
student’s schedule, the student must contact and receive approval from
the counselor. Recommendation from the teacher involved and the
parents will be necessary.
• Class status: Class status will be determined by the following
minimum standards:
Freshmen Beginning high school students 1st year of attendance
Sophomores 5 or more units of credit 2nd year of attendance
Juniors 10 or more units of credit 3rd year of attendance
*Seniors 15 or more units of credit 4th year of attendance
*Seniors with 17 or more units of credit may participate in
commencement and the senior trip.
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• Service Credit: All students are strongly encouraged to earn service
credit. One service credit can be obtained from NMCHS. Thirty hours
of service equals 1/4 credit. Possible service work includes:
Oasis Lighthouse Cafe
Big Brother/Sister Shepherd’s Table
Local Diaconal services Teaching in the church
Volunteer babysitting GEMS/Cadets
Yard work – not family Love, Inc.
House work – not family Friendship Bible Class
Visiting shut-ins Children in Worship
Volunteer at nursing home Vacation Bible School
Prison Ministry M.O.S.E.S.
Friendship Family Home Habitat for Humanity
Elementary tutoring Disaster relief work
S.W.I.M. Luke Society
Pregnancy Resource Center Mexico/S.T.A.R.T.
Boy scouts/Girl scouts Dominican Republic trip
See Mrs. Visser before beginning a project.
National Honor Society
The National Honor Society serves to honor those students who have
demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service and
character “to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to
render service, to promote leadership and to develop character.”
Any junior or senior who maintains a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is
eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership and character.
Students are selected by a majority vote of the five teachers who are on the
faculty council.
Students will attend a short monthly meeting to choose and participate in one
group service project and to do one individual service project per year.
Students may be invited to participate in field trips to broaden their
perspective in learning and cultures. For more information go to
www.nhs.us –click the parent link.
Progress Reports, Grading, Honor Roll
• Progress Reports are prepared midway through each nine-week
marking period for those students who are not maintaining at least a C-
in a class. In addition, a report is sent to all new students, including all
ninth-graders. You may view the report on your Edline account. If
you do not have access to Edline, the report will be sent to your home.
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• Report Cards: Reports on student progress will be completed at the
end of each nine-week marking period and posted on Edline.
Incomplete grades become failing grades if necessary work is not
submitted within one week of the end of the marking period. To be
eligible for extra-curricular activities, all work must be submitted one
week after the marking period ends. At the end of the school year,
incomplete work is due within one week of the final exam day.
• Exams: The semester exam grade is computed up to 25% of the final
semester grade. Each teacher determines the value for each course.
• Grading scale: The following grading scale is a GUIDE for
teachers and students. Teachers may develop their own grading scales
which they will present to the students in affected classes.
Grade Percentage *Numerical Equivalent
A 96.5-100 4.0
A- 93.5-96.49 3.7
B+ 90.5-93.49 3.3
B 87.5-90.49 3.0
B- 84.5-87.49 2.7
C+ 80.5-84.49 2.3
C 76.5-80.49 2.0
C- 72.5-76.49 1.7
D+ 68.5-72.49 1.3
D 64.5-68.49 1.0
D- 61.0-64.49 .7
E 0-60.99 (failing) .0
*Used in computing grade point average (GPA)
• Honor Roll: In order to be eligible for the Honor Roll a student
must have a GPA of 3.0 or better. This 3.0 may not consist of more
than one C or any grade below a C-.
• Homework expectations: A ninth grader not taking geography will
have about 92 minutes of homework per day. A tenth grader taking
geometry will have approximately 120 minutes of homework per day.
A college-prep track upperclassman will have approximately 125
minutes of homework per day. Many students may have 45 minutes of
study hall and 15 minutes of study time during mentor hour during the
school day. Students should plan for an hour of study time at home per
day.
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School Policies: Dress, Attendance, Privileges
Dress Code
How students dress reveals much about the attitudes toward life, respect for
themselves, for others and for God. At NMC high school, all students are
expected to exercise modesty in apparel and grooming.
• Wording on clothing must not be offensive, must not promote any
secular musical group or artist, and cannot imply or condone references
to drugs, alcohol, violence or sexual innuendo.
• For girls: Shirts and dresses must have a modest neckline with no
cleavage visible. No bare midriffs are allowed at any time. Girls’ shirts
must meet their pants when their arms are raised. The shoulder width of
girls’ apparel must be at least 1½ inches. This width may not be made
by wearing a few different spaghetti strapped shirts and adding their
width. Off the shoulder clothing will not be tolerated. Shorts and skirts
worn to school must comply with the modesty rule. Leggings worn
under extremely short skirts will not meet code.
• For boys: Pants must be worn in such a manner that undergarments
should not be visible, regardless of movement. No sleeveless shirts will
be tolerated. At least one of the upper body garments being worn must
be tucked in at all times or must be long enough to completely cover the
waistband of the pant (at least 3-4 inches), regardless of movement.
• Hats, caps or sweatshirt hoods are not to be worn in school. Hats and
caps must be left in lockers.
• Footwear must be worn at all times.
• Students involved with after-school practices and activities are expected
to dress adhering to the spirit and design of this code as well. The only
exception to this rule will be the Junior-Senior Banquet to which
strapless and spaghetti strap dresses for girls will be permitted.
• Dress code violations may result in a demerit. In addition, the student
will be asked to correct the infraction.
Juniors and Seniors High School Lunch Policy
Leaving campus for lunch will be allowed only after a parent has signed a
permission slip.
• Leaving campus for lunch is a privilege, and parents of the school may
withdraw it at any time.
• Junior and senior students must personally sign out when leaving
campus and sign in when returning. Junior and senior students may
either walk off campus or drive off campus at lunch time.
• Students who fail to sign in and out personally or who are late returning
from lunch for whatever reason, lose the privilege for a week for the
first offense.
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• If a student fails to sign out or sign in personally, or is late a second
time, he or she loses the privilege for a month.
• If a student fails to sign out or sign in personally, or is late a third time,
she or he loses the privilege for a semester.
• For any junior or senior failing a class, the privilege will be withdrawn.
• If a junior or senior takes a freshman or sophomore with them off
campus at noon hour, the privilege of leaving campus at lunch time will
be withdrawn for a week. Freshmen or sophomores who leave campus
may be given a demerit and lose the privilege for a portion of their
junior or senior year.
Attendance
Regular and punctual attendance is generally essential for success as a
student and certainly is a good rule for life-long living. Students should,
therefore, be absent or tardy only when absolutely unavoidable. When an
absence or tardy occurs, the student is responsible for any class work missed
and must arrange with the teachers to make up assignments and quizzes. If a
student is sick usually the student will be given the number of days absent to
make up the work assigned during his/her absences (i.e. if two days are
missed, two days are given to make up the work).
We want to teach our students to be prompt, present and prepared. A
classroom is a learning community; students benefit from classroom
experience, and other students benefit from the participation of all.
• Maximum absence policy – This policy limits the number of
absences from a class to 10 per semester, with more than 10
resulting in loss of credit for the class. Distinction between excused
and unexcused absences will be made as far as makeup work and
tests are concerned. Parents will be alerted that the 5th and 9th
absence from class has occurred. If a student is excused by a
parent, she will receive full credit for late class work and tests
completed within one week of the last absent day. Arrangements
for an extension may be made before that week expires. If a student
is not excused by a parent, he will be given 0% credit on missing
class work and tests.
• Test make-ups will be done on Wednesday or Friday at 7:30 a.m.
(until 8:10 a.m.). A teacher may choose to give a test to a student
during that teacher’s monitored study hall.
• Tardy for school or class without parent permission – See below.
Unplanned absences: If a student must be absent because of illness or a
family emergency, parents are requested to phone the office before 8:30 a.m.
every day that the student is absent. If a parent fails to telephone the office
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regarding a student’s absence, a parent must send a note with the student
when he or she returns to school.
Planned absences: While planned absences such as trips, doctor's
appointments or other absences for other reasons are unavoidable, it is in the
best interest of the student to keep them to a minimum. When such an
absence occurs, it is the parents’ responsibility to contact the school to give
permission for the absence. The student will then be given a blue slip, and
must contact the teacher to get assignments for each class he/she will miss.
Failure to follow this procedure may result in a zero given for missed work.
Partial day absence: If a student arrives to school late or must leave
early, the following procedure is to be followed:
• Students in grades 9-12 arriving late must report to the office for an
admit slip.
• If a student becomes ill, he/she must report to the office before
leaving campus. Parents will be notified and advised before any
action is taken.
• If a student plans to leave campus during the school day, a parental
note must be presented to the school office at the beginning of the
school day and an “early dismissal” slip provided to give to the
teacher. Prior to leaving campus, the student must sign out in the
front office. Students must report to the office when returning to be
issued an admit slip.
• Students may not leave campus after arriving unless the parent has
given prior permission. Leaving campus to go for breakfast or an
early lunch is not permissible.
Tardiness: We are attempting to teach the life lesson of being on time.
Tardies at work result in loss of jobs, tardies at school result in detentions.
We realize there may be an occasion that a tardy may result due to
unforeseen circumstances. This is the reason each student is given five
tardies per semester with no consequence. Consequences of tardies in grades
9-12 are as follows:
• One to five tardies – no penalty
• Sixth – ninth tardies – one detention for each subsequent tardy
• Tenth tardy – a conference with the principal, the student and the
parent will be held for the purpose of correcting the tardiness.
Additional penalties may result including possible in-school
suspension, Saturday school, or work on Saturday morning.
A tardy of 10 minutes or longer is recorded as an absence.
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Procedure for re-admittance: All students who are absent due to illness or
unplanned events the day before must have a signed admit slip from the
office to be readmitted into class. This slip will state whether the absence
was excused or unexcused. The student will present this slip for admission
into each class for which he/she was absent the previous day.
Non-permissible items
Any knives, guns or other items that can be used as weapons are not allowed
in the building or anywhere on the school grounds. The law requires us to
report to a parent or guardian and the local law enforcement agency if a
dangerous weapon is found in the possession of a student. Please note:
During hunting season, guns may not be stored in trucks or cars on school
property. Please make other arrangements for the safe-keeping of guns.
Electronics-Free Zone
Student-owned electronic devices such as cell phones, radios, DVD/CD
players, I-Pods, MP-3 players are not to be used or visible after a student
enters the building in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. If an
electronic device is used, a teacher may take it from the student and Mrs.
Visser will keep it for the remainder of the day. On the second offense, the
electronic device is kept for a week. High school students are allowed to
make cell phone calls during the noon break.
Computer/Internet Use
High school students may use the internet at school only with the proper
orientation and when the permission form has been completed and turned in.
Forms are available in the main office. Our policy is to educate students and
then expect them to use this learning tool responsibly. If it is not responsibly
used, it will be taken away. No e-mail accounts may be used or accessed
at school. Abuse of the computer and internet use will result in
computer privileges being taken away.
High School Student Center
This room will be open to all students who demonstrate respect for God,
fellow students, NMC property and the property of fellow students.
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Student Conduct and Disciplinary Matters
Motor Vehicles
Northern Michigan Christian School considers student driving a privilege for
those who have obtained a driver’s license and have a vehicle available to
them. Misuse of the driving privilege on or around school property will
result in a forfeiture of it.
• Students must register each vehicle they will drive to school by giving
the secretary the vehicle’s license plate number.
• Students may not park on the road; vehicles must be parked in the
student parking lot to the south of Elm Street across from the school.
• Students may only enter and exit the west driveway.
• Students will park in the three designated rows, never leaving their
vehicle in a driving lane or in front of the bus barn.
• After each instance of unsafe driving (either observed by a school
employee or reported by someone from the community), or for failure
to observe any of these rules, the student may be called in for a
conference, parents may be notified, and/or a demerit may be given.
• Involvement in one unsafe driving incident (either observed or reported)
may also result in suspension of student driving privileges for a period
of one week; a second unsafe driving incident may result in a six-week
suspension.
• Bus transportation is provided to and from Wexford-Missaukee
Vocational Center for students enrolled in vocational classes.
Alternative means of transportation from NMC to Career Technical
Center or from CTC to NMC must not be used without approval from
the principal of Wexford-Missaukee Career Technical Center. CTC
expects students to travel by bus. Permission to use other transportation
must be obtained in advance and will be granted only in cases of
exceptional need.
• Students must use the exit off the west end of the student parking lot,
and exit to the north at the end of the school day.
School Property
Proper use and care of school facilities should be the concern of everyone.
Students are expected to cooperate with maintenance and custodial personnel
in every possible way.
• Beverages – Beverages with lids on will be allowed in the hallways and
in the student center, but not in classrooms.
• Gym Use – Students should not be on the gym floor without appropriate
gym shoes. Gym equipment should be treated with care and respect.
Climbing up closed bleachers is forbidden; this climbing may cause
permanent damage to the bleachers and to you!
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• Lockers – Lockers are school property made available for use during the
school year. Students should not keep money or other valuables in
lockers, and they are expected to keep the interior and surfaces of their
locker and the hallways free of debris and litter.
High School Disciplinary Action
Demerits
Demerits may be given for minor infractions of rules when a detention is
“too severe.” Demerits may be given for activities such as dress code or
parking violations, disrespect for others or others’ property, etc. A student
will be told by the staff member giving the demerit when a demerit has been
given. Three demerits in a quarter will result in detention.
Detention
• Detention will be used as an administrative response to multiple tardies,
unexcused absences, and other breaches of established rules or student
behavior. Individuals who have been assigned detention time will report
to the assigned room promptly at 3:00 p.m. for one hour on the next
Wednesday scheduled for detention. Food, beverages, and gum are not
permitted in the detention room.
• Students will be given at least one day of advance notice when
assigned detention time, thus providing them opportunity to arrange
transportation. The school will not assume responsibility for
transporting students after a detention.
• Detention time should be given priority over all other commitments. An
unexcused absence from a scheduled detention period will result in
further discipline.
• Removal from the detention room for violation of an established rule or
other insubordinate behavior will result in an additional two hours of
detention time.
• If a student receives three detentions during the course of a semester, the
fourth may result in an in-house suspension. The student may be
suspended until a meeting is scheduled with the student, parents or
guardian and principal.
Suspension
Suspension from class or from school may be used as an administrative
response to flagrant or persistent disregard for school rules. Suspensions
may be either in-school or out-of-school. Suspended students are expected
to satisfactorily complete work missed during their absence. In most
instances, a suspension will not occur until parents have been notified
regarding the reason for such suspension.
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During an in-school suspension, the student must hire a teacher at $65/day,
and their class work receives full credit. Students will not receive credit for
the work completed in an out-of-school suspension.
High School Cheating and Plagiarism Policy
Cheating and plagiarism cannot be tolerated in a Christian school. Students
are, therefore, expected to demonstrate integrity in their schoolwork.
Supplying answers to another student or using the answers of another student
constitutes cheating, whether on daily assignments or an examination.
Teachers will explain what constitutes plagiarism at each grade level in the
high school. A student found guilty of cheating or plagiarism will complete
the work properly and the marking period grade will be lowered two steps
(i.e. from a B to a C+). In the case of cheating on a semester exam, the
student will take the examination again, and the achieved grade will be
lowered two steps.
The teacher involved will notify the Principal and parents, and the incident
will be recorded. Repeated cheating and/or plagiarism during the high
school career may result in suspension. Incidents deemed by the teacher(s)
and Principal as more serious in nature may also result in suspension.
Substance Abuse – High school Academic policy
NMCS expects its students to abstain from any use of tobacco, alcohol and
illegal substances.
• Tobacco – Possession or use of tobacco products at any time on the
school property, busses, at school related activities, or traveling between
school campuses will not be tolerated.
• Illegal drugs, including alcohol – The possession and/or use of alcohol
is illegal according to the law of the State of Michigan. When a reliable
source witnesses and reports your presence at a social gathering of peers
or individual(s) where there is the illegal use of drugs including alcohol,
the offense will result in:
o The first offense may result in a three week loss of privileges
such as leaving campus during noon hour and participating in
extra-curricular activities (practices and presentations or
games) or any special school-sponsored activities. The student
will participate in counseling sessions with a member of the
school staff.
o The second offense may result in an eight week loss of
privileges such as leaving campus during noon hour and
participating in extra-curricular activities (practices, games or
presentations) or any special school-sponsored activities. A
“drug education awareness” program may be required.
o The third offense may include additional corrective measures
up to and including expulsion from school.
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Extracurricular Activities
NMCS High School Academic Eligibility
Students desiring to participate in extra-curricular activities at Northern
Michigan Christian School must meet the minimum academic standards of
the school. Eligibility standards apply to all students who represent NMCS
in extra-curricular activities. The following standards and procedures will
apply in determining student eligibility:
• Teachers, coaches, directors, parents, and students all desire eligibility
status for students. Coaches/directors will encourage students to meet
with teachers after school and attend practice later if academic help is
needed for eligibility. If a student uses study hall and mentor time to
study, the risk of ineligibility will be greatly reduced.
A student at risk for ineligibility or the student who becomes ineligible
will be put on a teacher/coach/director academic partnership plan. The
student will carry a “study time” sheet to study hall and mentor time and
ask the study hall/mentor-time teacher to initial the sheet, verifying that
she has used study time to study. This sheet will then be shown to the
coach/director every practice/rehearsal day. If the sheet is not initialed
by the teachers, the student will be given a consequence by the
coach/director. EX: extra laps/shots at the end of practice or clean-up
detail after a rehearsal. The coach/director will initial the sheet to
ensure the partnership. If, after a period of at least three weeks, the
student is completing and handing in all assignments, and he is carrying
grades of C- or better in every class, he may request that the partnership
agreement be dropped.
• Eligibility for participation in extra-curricular activities will be reviewed
at the midterm with Progress Reports and at the end of a quarter with
Report Cards.
• If a student becomes academically ineligible, the ineligible period will
begin on the first Thursday after the progress report/report card is sent.
• The minimum academic standard will be a GPA of 1.50, no failing
grades, and no incompletes. (Teacher discretion will be used for
extenuating circumstances.)
• Exception may be made to this standard in the case of a student who has
demonstrated genuine effort and exceptional diligence. (Michigan High
School Athletic Association rules will apply in cases involving athletics.)
• After the fourth week of a marking period, parents will receive by
Edline or mail a Progress Report for students performing at or below D+
at that time in any given class. Parents and students are then responsible
for further communication with the teacher(s). Students receiving two
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or more Progress reports or one or more Progress Reports with an E will
be ineligible for two weeks. (A student might not receive a Progress
Report due to just making C- after the four weeks, yet become ineligible
due to poor performance during the final weeks of the marking period.)
The athletic director will be informed of students who have received a
progress report and will relay the information to coaches as necessary.
• Students who have a pattern of missing or incomplete work may be
declared ineligible at any point during the quarter.
• A student who becomes academically ineligible after the report card is
issued may be denied participation for a time period. The period of
ineligibility is at least three weeks, after which a student may be
declared eligible if his/her performance demonstrates significant
improvement in the courses that generated the Progress Reports as well
as ongoing acceptable performance in all classes. That declaration is
made by the high school principal on the advice of the faculty. All
students who remain ineligible after the initial ineligibility period will
be evaluated again within a period of not more than two weeks
thereafter to the end of the marking period. The evaluations during a
marking period are based on the work and effort in ALL classes.
• If a student is determined to be ineligible at the end of the fourth
marking period, that student will be ineligible for fall sports beginning
on the first day of fall sports practice, with an eligibility evaluation
occurring three weeks later.
High School Conduct Eligibility Policy
For specific information please refer to the athletic handbook.
Personal Conduct
Students involved in extra-curricular activities must conduct themselves in
an exemplary manner in their behavior, attitude, and language. Disciplinary
action as a result of poor conduct in many cases will result in a student
becoming ineligible to compete in athletics or extra-curricular activities.
Examples of poor conduct include but are not limited to these: skipping
school, lying, cheating (second offense), fighting, stealing, destruction of
school property, disrespect, physical sexual misconduct or persistent verbal
or sexual harassment, use of racial slurs, commission of a felony, violations
of the human dignity policy, gross misbehavior and threatening other
students or school personnel. The penalty for poor conduct will be
determined on a case by case basis at the discretion of the school
administration. The school reserves the right to notify local law
enforcement authorities if a discipline situation warrants such notification.
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Student Eligibility
We believe that students who represent the school to the public may be held
to a higher standard of conduct than those students whom the public does not
see as representatives of the school. A student participating in a public
performance represents many more students than just himself/herself.
Therefore, if you desire to participate and to represent NMC in extra/co-
curricular activities, you must meet basic academic, Christian citizenship,
and training standards. This Christian citizenship must be reflected in your
behavior during the entire year. All students and their parents will sign a
Form of Subscription, which means they have read these policies and
guidelines and agree to abide by their intent. Examples of co-curriculars are
Student Council and Spiritual Life Committee. Participants of extra-
curricular activities include team members, managers and statisticians.
Class Funds and Activities
• The school financial secretary will receive funds, deposit them in
appropriate bank accounts, and write checks authorized by
activities/class sponsors. She also is charged with maintaining accurate,
up-to-date records of all student activities funds.
• All funds earned through school projects and activities for the benefit of
students are deposited and disbursed as part of activities/class funds.
• The class or advisor will receive quarterly reports indicating the activity
that has occurred in their class account.
• Students at NMCHS will be involved in several fund-raisers to raise
money for the senior class trip, the Junior-Senior Banquet, and other
class expenses. Profits and earnings from sales are not refundable if a
student transfers from NMCS or does not participate in the trip or the
banquet.
Athletic Awards
For specific information about athletic awards, please refer to the athletic
handbook.
Transportation to Activities
Transportation will be provided to all away athletic events for team
members. Students must not make other arrangements for travel without
approval from their coaches.
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INTRODUCTION TO NMCS
• Mission Statement ..........................................1
• Past and Present
• Statement of Purpose
GENERAL INFORMATION
• Faculty and Staff …………………………..2
• Hot Lunch Program …………………………3
• Parent Volunteer Opportunities
• Volunteer Program ……………..……….......4
• Parent Concern Report
CURRICULUM ...................................................... 5
ACADEMIC SERVICES ......................................... 5
• Parent-Teacher Communication – Edline
• Parent-Teacher Conferences
• Student Records
SCHOOL POLICIES............................................... 6
• Dress Code
• Medicines
• Weather Conditions
• Non-permissible Items.……………………….7
• Films
• Human Dignity Policy
• Non-Discrimination Policy ……………..…….8
• Lockdown Procedures
STUDENT INFORMATION
& GUIDELINES …………………………..…..….8
• Electronics-Free Zone
• Telephone use………………………………..9
• Bussing
• Playground Supervision
• Gymnasium Supervision …………..…….….10
• Hallway Use
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL……………….…........11
• School Hours-Schedule
• School Supplies/Textbooks
• Curriculum ……………………………...…..12
• Grading Codes & Report Cards
• Library
• Community Library
• Elementary Parties ……….………..…..…....13
• Dress Code
• Non-permissible Items
• Trading
• Attendance
• Elementary Class Trips …….……..…………14
• Computer/Internet Use
• Student Conduct/Behavior
• School Property
MIDDLE SCHOOL………………………….……15
• School Hours-Schedule
• Devotions/Chapel
• Counseling.......................................................16
• Curriculum/Textbooks/Supplies
• Report Cards & Progress Reports ………..……17
• Honor Roll & Honorable Mention
• Middle School Grading Scale ………………….18
• Athletic Eligibility
• Exams
• Library
• Missed work due to sickness or appointment
• Excused/Unexcused absence ……....….……..…19
• Early departure/Signing in and out/Vacations
• Dress Code …………..…………..…………...20
• School Property
• Demerits & Detentions .…………..…………...21
• Cheating
• Substance Abuse ……………………………...22
• Non-permissible Items
• Computer/Internet Use
• Visitors
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HIGH SCHOOL .................................................. 23
• School Hours-Schedule
• Curriculum
• Chapels/Devotions/Counseling
• Textbooks & Supplies
• Graduation Requirements …...…...................24
• National Honor Society ………………..……25
• Progress Reports
• Report cards/Exams/Grading Scale..................26
• Honor Roll/Homework Expectations
• Dress Code……………………………..…..27
• Juniors & Seniors Lunch Policy
• Attendance ...................................................28
• Maximum Absence Policy
• Planned/Partial Day Absence/Tardiness ..........29
• Non-Permissible Items ……………………..30
• Electronics-free Zone
• Computer/Internet Use
• Library
• High School Student Center
• Student Conduct and Disciplinary Matters
o Motor Vehicles..................................31
o School Property
o Demerits …………………….……32
o Detention
o Suspension
o Cheating and Plagiarism Policy ..........33
o Substance Abuse
• Academic Eligibility.......................................34
• Personal Conduct …......................................35
• Student Eligibility .........................................36
• Class Funds and Activities
• Athletic Awards
• Transportation to Activities
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Northern Michigan Christian School
128 Martin Street
McBain, MI 49657
(231) 825-2492
Fax (231) 825-2371
www.nmcs.us
e-mail: info@nmcs.us
Northern Michigan Christian School is a
Christ-centered learning community developing gifts
for discernment and discipleship.
Superintendent: Mr. Rick Klooster
PreK-12 Principal/Admissions Director: Mrs. Marilyn Visser
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