ACADEMIC STANDARDS POLICY

A student is considered to be in regular academic standing if he/she maintains at least “C’s” in his/her classes or has no more than one “D”, no “F’s”, and no Incompletes on his/her grade report.

Academic probation shall occur if a student in grades 3-12 receives two “D’s”, one “F” or an Incomplete.  If there is academic probation through one academic quarter, loss of student office shall result for the reminder of the year and loss of eligibility to play on the sports teams will be enforced until grades for the next quarter meet the minimum standard for regular academic standing.  If the student shows no improvement while on probation, the student will be asked to meet with the school board for possible dismissal from school. 

While on academic probation, it is recommended that the student arrange for tutoring to ensure their success.  It is also recommended that the student maintain a school planner to keep track of their assignments.  The student, parent(s), teacher(s) and administrator will meet every two weeks to check on student progress.

Awards

An awards program will be held at the end of the year.  Students will be honored for excellence in each subject category as well as Honor Roll, Attendance, Citizenship, Music, and Sports.

Amy Fardulis Award:  In honor of Amy Beth Fardulis, a graduate of Boulder Junior Academy, a memorial scholarship is given in recognition of personal qualities and achievements of students graduating from the 8th grade.  The scholarship is based on the following criteria:  Leadership, Spirituality, Music, Athletic Involvement, Creativity, People Skills/Social Interaction, and Financial Consideration.

Honor Roll:

For Grades 4-8:  Students who maintain straight A’s will receive a gold honor roll distinction.  Students who received all A’s and B’s will receive silver distinction.  Grade point average is not calculated for elementary grades. 

For Grades 9-12:  Honor Roll will be based on grade point average or G.P.A.  Students with any D’s or F’s will not be eligible for honor roll.

Perfect Attendance:  Students who achieve perfect attendance (no tardies or absences-whether excused or unexcused) will be recognized at the end of each quarter.  Students who maintain a perfect attendance for the entire year will receive special recognition.

Principal’s Award and Presidential Academic Fitness:  A Principal’s Award will be given to those students who are on the honor roll all year and achieve at least 85 percentile on one of the core sections of the ITBS or as a composite score.  The Presidential Academic Fitness Award is given to 10th – 12th grade students who meet the criteria with a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.5.

Daily Schedule

Students should arrive at school after 8:00 and be in their desks and ready for worship by 8:15 am. Upon entering school, every student is required to proceed to their own classroom in a timely fashion.  Students are not to loiter outside the school building, in the restrooms, gym, or hallways prior to the beginning of school or after the end of the school day.  Supervision ends at 3:45 Monday-Thursday and 12:30 on Fridays. Please arrange transportation for your student to leave by 3:40 and 12:25, respectively.

Grading Scale

The lower elementary (K-2) uses a system of letters:  E, S, N, and U. Grades 3-12 use A, B, C, D, and F with + and – in addition to a 4.00 GPA system.  There are also the following grade designations:

Late and Incomplete Work

Students are expected to keep their work up to date. Late work is accepted only at the discretion of the teacher for good cause and with a deduction of points.  Students who receive an incomplete because of extended illness or other reasons must make arrangements with the teachers to make up missed work within a period of three weeks.  The student has the option of petitioning for additional time to the Academic Standards Committee.  Failure to complete this work in the specified time will result in changing an “I” to an “F”.

Music credits for private lessons:

A minimum of 15 music lessons per semester is required to receive high school credit.  The music teacher will make provision for 15 or more lessons.  It is the responsibility of the student to meet his appointments with the required books and materials. An application for high school credit in music and proper documentation is required.

Special Education

     Vista Ridge Academy is not equipped to offer special education and is therefore unable to accept pupils who have serious scholastic or behavioral problems, or who are mentally challenged.  If a special scholastic or emotional need is identified, testing will be required.  A conference will be set up with the parent, teacher, and/or administration to determine how to best meet the child’s needs.

Standardized Testing

Students in grades 3-12 participate in the testing program used by the Mid-America Conference of SDA Schools.  The ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills) is given in late September.  It is used primarily by the school as a tool to assess weaknesses of particular classes and to tailor a curriculum which strengthens the academic ability of each student.

Students in grades 11-12 will be offered PSAT, SAT, and ACT testing.

ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM

Art

Each grade provides art instruction which includes drawing, painting, and sculpture.

Bible

A four year thematic cycle is implemented in grades one through six.  The complete Bible is covered yearly, but different stories are emphasized each year.  All Bible classes are taught emphasizing a personal relationship with Jesus.

Language Arts

The reading program begins with phonics and skills, and then develops into a literature based program.  Reading for personal pleasure and for information is taught. Priority is given to developing writing skills which are literature and grammar based.

Math

Basic math facts are strongly presented.  Calculator use is discouraged until upper grades; mental math is encouraged. Hands-on materials are used where appropriate.

Music

Classroom music includes choir, recorder, chimes, and band. An after school strings program and private music lessons are available. Eligibility for music group is dependent on grade level. Students are given the opportunity to perform their music at school and church programs, the spring music festival and on tours.  Performances are the equivalent of a course final and attendance is required when students join musical groups.

Physical Education

Recess and P.E. opportunities are given for each class.  Seventh and eighth grade students are eligible to join the academy for league sports.

Science and Social Studies

The world which God has created is the basis for science and social studies.  Respect for the environment and the incredible depth of God’s power, respect for our history, and the examples of God’s leading are highlighted.

Academic Acceleration – Elementary

Criteria for acceleration of a student are to be based on the following minimal requirements.

• A student is expected to have a composite score on a standard achievement test battery which places him/her at the 90th percentile or above.
• The student must demonstrate to the school staff and to the parents/legal guardians satisfactory evidence of academic, chronological, emotional, and social readiness.
• Prior written request for acceleration of the student (i.e., two years in one, or three years in two) must be submitted to the Conference Office of Education from the school administration.  Written approval from the Conference Office of Education must be kept in the student’s cumulative record.
• The student must maintain an average or above level of achievement on the accelerated program.
• The application must be approved by the conference Office of Education in writing before a student is permitted to begin work on advanced placement

Grading Periods – Elementary

The school year is divided into periods of approximately nine weeks each.  At the end of these periods grades are issued to students and mailed to parents indicating the progress that is being made by the student.  A conference may called by the teacher or at a parent’s request should a student develop difficulty in any subject area.  At the end of the school year, the quarter grades for each class are average to make a final grade for the year.

Student Leadership – Elementary

In order to hold a major office (President or Vice President) a student must have been in attendance at VRA for the semester prior to the semester the student holds office.  In addition, the student holding office is permitted grades reflecting only one D and no F’s while holding office.  The loss of the office may occur if the student fails to maintain proper grades.

SECONDARY PROGRAM

Graduation is a function of Vista Ridge Academy in which the students may be invited to participate.  The conferring of diplomas by the school signifies the successful completion of at least 27 credits and the fulfillment of all other graduation requirements.  Only students who have achieved this standard or have been granted permission by the Academic Standards Committee, and who have fulfilled their financial obligations to the school may participate in graduation exercises.  Diplomas will not be given out at graduation if a student has not successfully completed graduation requirements or if there is a balance due on the account.  VRA staff will endeavor to counsel and assist students with academic problems.  Seniors are responsible to confirm a passing grade in classes needed for completion of graduation requirements.  Should there be a documented need for an alternative program, please contact the administration.

All of our high school students are taking the college prep program.  And we have the best and most advanced books that are available for that program track.  So we offer only the best of the college prep program.

The school offers an alternating required curriculum for grades nine through twelve. 

Academic Acceleration - Secondary

The academic program is planned in a sequential pattern.  In some instances a student of exceptional abilities and maturity may benefit from completing the program in a shorter time.  Secondary students and parents who desire to make application to accelerate must do so before the end of the sophomore year.  Specific criteria has been set by the Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists for such cases, and only students who meet these criteria will be considered for such a program.

Carnegie Unit - Secondary

The unit was introduced by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in 1914 to provide colleges with a standard measure of students' course work in high schools. One Carnegie unit of credit is granted for one 40-60 minute class that meets 5 days per week for two semesters or the equivalent. 

Class Membership - Secondary

Membership in class organizations will only be granted to students making satisfactory progress toward graduation.  Each year, ¼ of the total minimum graduation requirements must be met.  The following number of credits must be earned at the end of each year:
        Freshmen:  0 + credits
        Sophomore:  5.6 - 10.9 credits
        Junior: 11 - 16.4 credits
        Senior:  16.5 + credits
       
Changes in Schedules - Secondary

A student must obtain permission from the principal to enter or drop a class.  Generally, students may not enter or drop a class more than two weeks after the opening of any semester.    Students transferring in or out of the school will have their situations considered on an individual basis.

Correspondence or Summer School Work - Secondary

It is the policy of VRA to encourage all students to enroll in classes they desire or need during the regular school session.  Students who desire to take or retake a class for credit by correspondence or summer school must request permission to do so from the Academic Standards Committee in ADVANCE.  Correspondence credit must be completed by April 15 of the senior year. 

Grades and Transcripts - Secondary

The school year is divided into periods of approximately nine weeks each.  At the end of these periods grades are issued to students and mailed to parents indicating the progress that is being made by the student.   A conference may be called by the teacher or at a parent’s request should a student develop difficulty in any subject area.  The nine weeks’ marks for high school students are only temporary. For 9th – 12th graders permanent grades are issued and credits are recorded at the end of each semester. 

Service – Secondary

For every semester a student is in attendance at Vista Ridge Academy, a 0.1-semester credit of community service will be required.  A 0.1-semester credit will be given for ten hours of community service.  The school  plans and participates in organized community service work each semester.  Off-campus community service other than that organized by the school must be PRE-APPROVED and is available only for students who need to make up lost hours.

Senior Recognition (Grade 12)

Seniors graduating with honors will be recognized based on the cumulative GPA of their first seven semesters and the 3rd quarter of their senior year of grades 9-12.  High honors GPA of 3.50-4.00 and honors of 3.00-3.49.

Student Leadership Qualifications - Secondary

On campus, a large variety of organizations function with student leadership and faculty sponsorship.  Students are encouraged to become involved in these organizations and broaden their experiences.  Students who hold major offices (Presidents and Vice Presidents) must have and maintain a current quarterly GPA of 2.500 or above and must be in good and regular standing.  Other offices require a current quarterly GPA of 2.00 or above.  Note:  When determining the GPA of a candidate for major and minor offices the current or cumulative GPA may be used with no incompletes or F’s.  Students may hold only one major office at a time.

DESCRIPTION OF COURSES

FINE ARTS

Art.......................................... 0.5 credits, 2 semesters
Art is a course giving students introductory experience in a variety of forms including drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.  The course also gives students a basic knowledge of the principles and elements of art.

Band Ensembles............... 0.5 credits, 2 semesters
Band Ensembles is our instrumental organization of brass, woodwinds and percussion instruments.  Based on availability, public performances and tours will be scheduled throughout the year.  Grades are based on attendance, participation and the amount of practice. 
Chimes................................. 0.5 credits, 2 semester
This class offers a fun, hands-on approach to reading music.  The Chimes Choir participates in several concerts during the school year as well as learning basic music theory.  Grades are based on attendance, participation and performance.

Choir..................................... 0.5 credits, 2 semesters
Choir is an organization of mixed voices.  This is an open admission ensemble and is offered to anyone with musical interests.  Based on availability, public performances and tours will be scheduled throughout the year.  Grades are based on attendance, participation and performance.

Drama................................... 0.5 credits, 2 semesters
Basic elements of Christian play production are taught in drama class.  Students are given an opportunity to use creativity in such areas as costume design, stage management and prop design as well as experiencing the roles of various characters on the stage.  The class involves traveling on weekends to various churches and other locations.  Entrance to class is by audition only.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I................................ 1 credit, 2 semesters
The first year of Spanish is predominantly an audio-lingual program with emphasis on understanding and speaking the language.  Written exercises and grammar study are used mainly as a means for mastering the general structure of the Spanish language. 

Spanish II............................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
The second year of Spanish continues the oral approach by giving sufficient opportunities for conversation and the reading of material of cultural value.  Written exercises and compositions are also frequently required.  Prerequisite is an acceptable grade in Spanish I or the instructors consent.

HISTORY

Current Events.................. 0.5 credits, 1 semester
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of international relations and politics. Students will be required to learn about a number of current international events in their political, economic, and geographic contexts. The course also presents a number of theoretical approaches to help understand current events in light of the Christian perspective of end time events.

Geography......................... 0.5 credits, 1 semester
This class begins as a study of the area where we live and expands until the area of study encompasses the entire earth.  It examines the physical features, resources, people, and productivity of the different areas of the world.  It focuses on the interrelated aspects of the world we live in, the need of some form of global environmental protection plan, and the role of Christianity in our world today.

Government....................... 0.5 credit, 1 semester
This course’s primary objective is to help the students develop an understanding of the structure of our federal and state governments, how government relates to our daily lives, and how to become informed, concerned and voting Christian citizens.

United States History......... 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course gives a basic overview of the settlement, growth and functioning of our United States.  It provides an in-depth analysis of the major factors, issues, incidents, and peoples which have significantly affected our nation, its people, and its government.  It also covers the internal struggles and triumphs that have made us a nation, world power and a functioning democracy. 

World History....................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
The World History course, required of all students, is a survey of world history and the  cultures of the world with an emphasis on the Modern Era from the Renaissance to the present. The course will include historical, multicultural, geographical, economic, technological, social, political and current event trends.  

LANGUAGE ARTS

English I................................ 1 credit, 2 semesters
Structured to introduce a continuum, this course presents an overview of grammatical structure with emphasis on written expression and use of research techniques.  Literature is studied with concentration on literary devices and the various genre – poetry, short story, novel, drama and nonfiction.

English II.............................. 1 credit, 2 semesters
Students continue to develop their writing skills using expository, persuasion and narrative forms.  A survey of literature is continued as well with further study of the various genre.  Literary pieces are taken from American, British and world literature.

English III............................. 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course is designed as a survey to acquaint students with major British writers who have helped form Western culture.  Students will continue to develop their skills in written composition, research and literary analysis.

English IV........................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course is designed as a survey of American literature, exposing students to major authors and western though.  Students continue to develop their writing skills via the various types of composition.

MATHEMATICS

Algebra I............................. 1 credit, 2 semesters
Topics covered in this course include properties of real numbers, simple probability and odds, solving and graphing linear equations and functions, writing linear equations, solving and graphing linear inequalities, systems of linear equations, exponents, polynomials, simplifying radicals and solving simple quadratics.

Geometry........................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
Topics covered in this course are points, lines, planes, formal proofs, congruent and similar triangles, polygons, areas, volumes, and constructions. Prerequisite: Algebra I

Algebra II........................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
Topics covered in this course include equations and inequalities, linear equations and functions, system of linear equations and inequalities, matrices, determinants, various methods of solving systems using matrices, quadratic functions, factoring, completing the square, complex numbers, polynomials, rational exponents and roots.  Prerequisite: Algebra I

Advanced Math............... 1 credit, 2 semesters
The following goals guide the development of this class:

• Provide a strong foundation of pre-calculus concepts, techniques, and applications to prepare students for more advanced work.
• Place appropriate emphasis on discrete mathematics and data analysis.
• Show how technology can be used as a tool to facilitate learning and doing mathematics.
• Develop students’ quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Develop students’ abilities to understand and communicate mathematical ideas effectively.
• Increase students’ appreciation of mathematics through seeing a wide range of mathematical applications and learning about the contributions of men and women from different backgrounds in the development of the mathematical sciences.

     Prerequisite is Algebra II

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH

These classes are designed to give the student a new look at the Christian’s involvement in sports and fitness.  Students are coached in the fundamentals of several sports.  These courses are also designed to help the student develop healthy habits to be incorporated into adult life.

Health........................... 0.5 credits, 1 semester
This class approaches wellness from a Christian health perspective. Students learn to become informed consumers. Discussion topics include emotional and physical health and well-being, marriage and family, communicable and degenerative diseases, and drugs.

PRACTICAL ARTS

Computer Applications.... 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course helps the student gain proficiency in using all aspects of Microsoft Office.  Students are trained on Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint.  A requirement of this course is that students take a keyboarding proficiency test.  Students must be able to type a minimum of 30 words per minute to receive a passing grade.

Life Skills............................. 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course is designed to give students basic life skills to prepare them for the future. It includes topics such as home finance, family relationship dynamics, clothing, consumerism, resource management, nutrition, and food preparation transportation, design, and home repair.

RELIGION

Religion I............................. 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course consists of two one-semester classes, Beginnings and Life and Teachings of Jesus. Beginnings, a study in the book of Genesis, focuses on how the world began, the problem of sin, God’s solution to sin, and what we can learn about our relationship with God through the lives of the patriarchs. Life and Teachings of Jesus focuses primarily on Jesus, why His life 2000 years ago is important, and how His teachings impact our lives today.

Religion II........................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course, God in His Church, focuses on God and how He has chosen to work on this earth. Beginning with the Children of Israel in Exodus, continuing with the early Christian church, and ending with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is demonstrated that God chooses and blesses a people expressly for the purpose of reaching the world with the goodness of His love and salvation. During this course students are directed regularly to the practical application of Biblical principles to their lives so they may become committed to Jesus as the Lord of their lives and of their church.

Religion III......................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
This course focuses on one’s relationship with God through a study of biblical relationship principles and the book of Romans. Building on this foundation, the students then move into a study of Seventh-day Adventist beliefs, the events surrounding the soon coming of Jesus and what these truths reveal about God and our relationship with Him.  Studies include Daniel and Revelation.

Religion IV....................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
Christian Life Skills is a one-year study applying principles from the Bible and the writings of Ellen White to the issues of careers, dating, marriage, and witnessing. The goal of this class is to develop a Christ-centered philosophy. It includes an emphasis on studying the Bible as a quest for truth and focus on knowing Jesus.

SCIENCE

Biology............................ 1 credit, 2 semesters
In this course an emphasis will be made to show the common characteristics and needs of organisms in order to point out the consistency of
design in nature. Topics of study will range from molecular organization to community organization. Laboratory experience by the student will be the special emphasis.
Chemistry....................... 1 credit, 2 semesters
The topics presented in this course range from the fundamental aspects of chemistry to the applications of chemistry in society. Some of the topics included are matter and its classification, its states, and other properties; atomic symbols, molecular formulas and their derivation. In addition, students learn to balance chemical equations, perform mass/mass calculations, understand the mole concept, understand atomic structure and the periodicity of the elements, learn bonding processes and results, and learn to balance oxidation-reduction equations. Prerequisites are Biology, Algebra I, and Earth Science (or equivalent).

Physics........................... 1 credit, 2 semesters

An introductory study of energy and the changes it undergoes. Practical application of physical laws is stressed along with actual laboratory experience. This is an elective class designed to challenge the science-oriented student with a greater depth of study than can be offered in a general science class. Prerequisites are Biology, Algebra I, and Physical Science.