2017-2018 employee handbook - gateway academy
TRANSCRIPT
2017-2018 EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK
Founding & Lead Pastor • Steve Vaggalis Executive Pastor of Operations • Steven Vaggalis
Sondra Dutram, Principal [email protected]
122 Poinciana Blvd., Miramar Beach, FL 32550 ▪ 850.654.9095
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Table of Contents
Important Contacts ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Our Vision ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Our Mission ................................................................................................................................................... 4
Our Beliefs ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
School Affiliation ........................................................................................................................................... 5
Staff Spiritual Disciplines ............................................................................................................................... 5
Background Screenings ................................................................................................................................. 6
Job Descriptions / Payroll Procedures .......................................................................................................... 6
Annual Teaching Assignments ...................................................................................................................... 7
Probationary Period ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Annual Job Performance Appraisal ............................................................................................................... 7
Separation by Resignation or Discharge ....................................................................................................... 8
Grievances ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
Harassment / Discrimination Policy .............................................................................................................. 9
Worker’s Compensation ............................................................................................................................... 9
Social Security ............................................................................................................................................... 9
Reporting Absences .................................................................................................................................... 10
Employee Discounts .................................................................................................................................... 10
Dress Code and Appearance ....................................................................................................................... 11
Working Environment ................................................................................................................................. 12
Room Reservations / Special Event Requirements ..................................................................................... 13
Purchase Reimbursements ......................................................................................................................... 13
Parking ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
Worker / Child Supervision ......................................................................................................................... 14
School Year .................................................................................................................................................. 15
School Hours ............................................................................................................................................... 16
Mandatory Staff Meetings / Age Level Planning Meetings / Staff Prayer .................................................. 17
Curriculum ................................................................................................................................................... 17
Lesson Plans ................................................................................................................................................ 18
Report Cards .............................................................................................................................................. 18
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Grading Policy ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Standardized Achievement Testing ........................................................................................................... 21
School Records ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Media Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 22
Staff Cell Phone Use .................................................................................................................................... 23
Social Media Guidelines .............................................................................................................................. 23
Emergency Procedures ............................................................................................................................... 24
Confidential Information ............................................................................................................................ 30
Field Trips .................................................................................................................................................... 31
Parent / Student Handbook Guidelines ...................................................................................................... 31
Appendix A • Corrective Action Plan .......................................................................................................... 33
Appendix B • Absence Form ....................................................................................................................... 34
Appendix C • Room Reservation Form ....................................................................................................... 35
Appendix D • Liability Waiver ..................................................................................................................... 36
Appendix E • Field Trip Permission Form ................................................................................................... 37
Appendix F • Transportation Form ............................................................................................................. 38
Appendix G • Anaphylaxis Action Plan ....................................................................................................... 39
Appendix H • Classroom Expense & Reimbursement Request Form ......................................................... 40
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Important Contacts
Below is a list of administration staff and their areas of oversight should you need assistance throughout
our school year. All extensions below can be reached by calling 850-654-9095.
Sondra Dutram Principal [email protected] Phone ext. 219
Brittany Smith Admissions Coordinator [email protected] Phone ext. 205
Steven Vaggalis Executive Pastor of Operations [email protected]
Jeanine Reny Admin. Assistant/Library [email protected] Welcome Desk
Cheryl Walsh Welcome Desk Assistant [email protected] Welcome Desk
Our Vision
The Gateway Academy community is committed to working together to create a Christian atmosphere,
which is child-centered, experience based, and developmental for our students. Our staff recognizes,
celebrates and challenges the efforts of our students to perform at their personal best and become
lifelong learners. We endeavor to encourage our students to make clear choices of integrity and honor
to successfully meet the challenges of their future and to strengthen their spiritual foundation in Jesus
Christ.
Our Mission
Gateway Academy is an outreach ministry of Destiny Worship Center that is committed to partnering
with parents as they strive to train up their children in the way that they should go (Proverbs 22:6) and
help them fulfill the purpose, plan, and destiny God has for their lives. We, as ambassadors for Christ,
must plant righteous seeds in fertile soil, which will produce a harvest of believers with strong Christian
character, discipline, accountability, responsibility, compassion, respect, wisdom and love. It is our
deepest desire to instill the love of Jesus Christ in the hearts of our children.
Our Beliefs
1. We believe all children can learn.
2. We believe in the worth and dignity of every child.
3. We believe positive self-esteem is critical to academic success.
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4. We believe that successful programs produce high achievement.
5. We believe that the home, the church, the school and the community are all critical influences
in preparing students to excel in society.
6. We believe in the necessity of teaching our children through the inspired, infallible,
authoritative Word of God about the virgin birth, sinless life, resurrection and deity of our Lord
and Savior Jesus Christ.
7. We believe learning is not isolated but integrated across the curriculum.
8. We believe effective teachers prepare for and facilitate creative learning.
9. We believe developmentally appropriate activities create successful learning for every child.
10. We believe that respect is essential to success, whether it be to the student, teacher, parent, or
to property.
11. We believe teachers, parents and children working together promote student success.
This statement of faith does not exhaust the extent of our beliefs, especially our Christian beliefs and
values. Gateway Academy unashamedly believes, teaches, and practices a literal interpretation of the
Word of God on all topics. The Bible itself, as the inspired and infallible Word of God that speaks with
final authority concerning truth, morality, and the proper conduct of mankind, is the final source of all
that we believe. For purposes of Gateway Academy’s faith, doctrine, practice, policy, and discipline,
our founding and lead pastor, Steve Vaggalis, is Gateway’s final interpretive authority on the Bible’s
meaning and application.
School Affiliation
An Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) designation demonstrates
the extreme importance that participating schools place on excellence in
education and student spiritual development. Gateway Academy, in an effort to
honor God through our continual enhancement of the professional and personal
spiritual development of our staff and to remain on the cutting edge of our
curriculum accomplishments, is proud to be an affiliated member of ACSI.
Staff Spiritual Disciplines
Our Gateway Academy Board and administration team believe strongly that Gateway Academy is a
ministry and mission field and not only a school. In order to fully represent our Savior to our students,
families, and community we as followers of Christ have to be in constant communion with Him. We also
believe that being a part of the family of God includes worship, active service, and Bible study. All
Gateway staff are expected to participate in worship of our Savior through routine Sunday attendance in
their church homes. Staff should be active in their own personal discipleship through Bible study, either
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with a small group or one-on-one with an accountability partner. Gateway administrators, teachers, and
paraprofessionals are also expected to serve their church congregations by volunteering in some aspect
of ministry at a significant level in their particular area of spiritual gifting.
Gateway is a vital ministry of Destiny Worship Center and it is important that our staff members set
examples that will lead others, specifically our school families along with our congregations, into a
deeper more meaningful relationship with Christ.
Background Screenings
Safety is one of our upmost priorities here at Gateway Academy, therefore our school completes a
thorough background screening on all employees. The completion of this screening process both for
new applicants and staff renewals is the financial responsibility of the employee. All screening clearance
information must be maintained on file by Gateway Administration but can be requested to be taken
should any employee separate from our school. Costs incurred for required periodic rescreens will also
be the sole financial responsibility of the employee.
Job Descriptions / Payroll Procedures
Each employee will have access to a written Job Description and an Employee Guidelines Handbook
through our password protected staff website. Employee paydays will be processed on the first of each
month for the 2017-2018 school year beginning on September 1, 2017 and ending June 1, 2018.
Because payroll is processed by our Destiny Worship Center finance team, the following deadlines will
need to be adhered to so that paperwork (for days absent and/or days subbed) will be able to processed
prior to payroll being issued.
Payroll Issue Date Period Included
September 1, 2017 Aug. 2, 2017 – Aug. 25, 2017
October 1, 2017 Aug. 28, 2017 – Sept. 22, 2017
November 1, 2017 Sept. 25, 2017 – Oct. 25, 2017
December 1, 2017 Oct. 26, 2017 – Nov. 17, 2017
January 1, 2018 Nov. 20, 2017 – Dec. 15, 2017
February 1, 2018 Dec. 18, 2017 – Jan. 25, 2018
March 1, 2018 Jan. 26, 2018 – Feb. 22, 2018
April 1, 2018 Feb. 23, 2018 – Mar. 26, 2018
May 1, 2018 Mar. 27, 2018 – Apr. 24, 2018
June 1, 2018 Apr. 25, 2018 – May 25, 2018
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All employees are required to sign in each morning they are present for work and to sign out should
they need to leave work before their normal duty hours end. Payroll is submitted based on this sign in
sheet, so failure to record your accurate attendance will result in your payroll check for that time period
being altered. Any hours not accounted for through the sign in process by the employee can be
reconciled, but not until the next payroll period is issued.
It is the responsibility of each employee to thoroughly read and adhere to the policies set forth below.
Knowledge of and compliance with the policies included in the employee manual help foster a
professional, safe environment in which all members of our Gateway family can work, grow, and
positively impact the lives of our children. Failure to adhere to these standards could result in
disciplinary measures or job termination.
Annual Teaching Assignments
Our Gateway staff is of great value to us and we will make every effort to ensure staff placement and
job security. However, if enrollment causes classroom placement or class location changes, we reserve
the right to adjust individual annual teaching assignments accordingly. In the event that classes need to
be eliminated, all attempts will be made to honor years of employment, dedication, and experience.
However, Gateway will NOT base teacher placement or dismissal on these factors alone. Continuation
of employment in situations such as this may be based on credentials, attitude of teamwork, prior job
performance, as well as years of employment, prior placement, dedication, and experience.
Probationary Period
All new employees will be hired for a three-month probationary period (90 days). During this time the
Gateway Administration team will complete an observation process and will meet with the employee to
determine if any improvements in performance are needed and if the employee is satisfied with his/her
position. At the end of three (3) months, the Gateway Administration will make a final recommendation
about continued employment of the employee.
Annual Job Performance Appraisal
A personnel folder will be maintained on each employee of Gateway Academy in the Administration
office. Employment history, training records, and annual reviews will be filed. Because of the
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confidential nature of this material, only the applicable employee, Gateway Administration, the
Gateway Academy Board, and members of Destiny Worship Center’s Pastoral Leadership will have
access to these personnel records.
Our Gateway Principal, or their designee, will meet with each employee to evaluate his/her job
performance. An annual meeting with Gateway’s Administration will also be scheduled to review each
employee’s self-evaluation form, classroom observation, and spiritual concerns and growth. New
employees must complete a formal annual observation prior to being eligible for rehire. Returning
employees will complete a formal annual observation every two years. Routine informal observations
will be performed on all employees annually. Promotions/raises may be given based on a review of
each employee’s performance and their individual adherence to the policies and expectations of both
Gateway Academy and Destiny Worship Center for which Gateway is an outreach ministry of.
Separation by Resignation or Discharge
It is hoped that each employee will be happy and productive. Orientation will be provided to assist each
staff member in performing his/her work in a satisfactory manner. After the probationary period, any
unsatisfactory work will be discussed with the staff member by Gateway Administration and a
Corrective Action Plan (See Appendix A) will be developed. Employees unable to make the necessary
improvements will be discharged.
Flagrant violations of the policies of either Gateway Academy, Destiny Worship Center, Gateway’s
Standards of Christian & Professional Practices, or these 2017-2018 Employee Guidelines will result in
immediate dismissal.
Should a staff member decide to resign his or her position, Gateway requires a minimum of a four week
notice. This time will allow our school to make appropriate notification to parents of all affected
students, necessary position advertisements, interviews, and plans for a smooth transition for all
children and remaining staff.
Grievances
We realize that in any organization of considerable size, there are bound to be incidents that may give
rise to problems among its employees. Gateway Academy has, therefore, established an employee
grievance procedure because unsettled problems or grievances of employees with their supervisors are
of serious concern to the business and professional management of our school and of the church we
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support. The purpose of the grievance procedure is to provide a speedy and logical method for the
presenting of employee concerns in order that a fair and practical adjustment may be made. Grievances
amongst employees or with the Gateway Administration team should be mediated by Gateway’s
Principal. Grievances involving our Gateway Principal should be mediated by our DWC leadership
representative (currently Steven Vaggalis) who will work in close coordination with Gateway’s Advisory
Board to resolve the issue being presented.
Harassment / Discrimination Policy
Harassment concerning an individual’s race, color, gender, age, national or ethnic origin, marital status,
or disability will not be tolerated. Adverse remarks or epithets concerning any of the above will not be
tolerated. Sexual harassment and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature will also not be
tolerated. Complaints should be reported in writing to Gateway’s Principal or DWC leadership
representative.
Students are entitled to an environment free of discrimination and harassment by other students, adult
employees and volunteers. Such behavior will not be tolerated and should be reported to Gateway’s
Administration team for attention.
Worker’s Compensation
Employees are covered by workers compensation insurance and should report all related accidents,
illnesses, or injuries immediately to their supervisor and he/she will inform the necessary church
administrators. State mandated posting of workers compensation information for has been made in our
staff area next to the copy machine.
Social Security
Each employee is required by law to have Social Security (FICA) wages withheld. Gateway Academy and
Destiny Worship Center will follow all necessary guidelines to adhere to this requirement for
withholdings and reporting procedures.
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Reporting Absences
Any employee that knows in advance that they will be unable to work on his/her workdays is required to
fill out a Gateway Academy Absence Request Form (See Appendix B) and submit it to Gateway’s
Administration prior to their absence occurring. Failure to submit this absence request form will result
in a payroll deduction for all hours missed even if the employee has flex/sick days available to them. Any
employee unable to come to his/her workstation due to last minute issues will notify Gateway
Academy’s Principal directly. Each employee is responsible for arranging their own substitute for the
day(s) they will be out and communicating who will be subbing in their place to Gateway’s
Administration. A list of approved substitutes is available (and updated regularly) on the password
protected staff website for the purpose of securing a sub when needed.
Should an employee need to be out or wish to be out on any days in the week prior to a holiday lasting
more than one day, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Spring Break, they MUST submit to Gateway’s
Principal an absence request form and receive approval for the absence prior to being gone. Simply
securing a substitute and being absent on these particular type of days is NOT adherence to policy.
Requests will be granted in such a way that will allow all employees to have the opportunity to be gone
during these times of the year on a rotational basis. No one employee will be approved to be gone for
the time period preceding all of these holidays. Any absence occurring without following the procedure
outlined in this section will be considered a significant breach of policy and will result in disciplinary
action. This procedure will allow for fairness to all employees and make it possible for the employee and
the school to secure a sub on these highly sought after days.
Because we work in a school setting with young children, we all run the risk of being exposed to germs
and illnesses throughout the year from the students. It is the desire of Gateway’s Administration to help
offset some of the loss of income that can result from being absent from work due to sickness. Each
employee will be awarded flex/sick days proportionate to the number of days they are scheduled to
work each week (i.e. 5-day a week employees will receive 5 flex/sick days; 3-day a week employees will
receive 3 flex/sick days; etc.) Payroll deductions will be made at each employee’s individual rate of
pay for all missed work days (not simply the cost of their replacement sub pay) over and above these
awarded flex/sick days.
Employee Discounts
It has been the practice of Gateway Academy to give discounts to its employees who have children
attending our school. These discounted rates will be given based on a tiered system directly connected
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to the number of hours you are employed. Part-time employees will receive a 25% discount for their
children while full time employees will receive a 50% discount on tuition costs for their student. All
other fees (uniform fees, curriculum fees, registration fees, matriculation fees, etc.) will be paid at 100%
by all employees for their children regardless of the level at which they are employed.
Dress Code and Appearance
In carrying on the work of our school and the church, most employees will come into direct contact with
our families, our congregation and our community. Therefore, it is necessary for all employees to
present as favorable an appearance as possible, including appropriate dress. Administration, teachers
and assistants must wear attractive clothing in good repair and condition. Business casual slacks (capri
pants and skirts for women) and comfortable shoes are permitted, but shorts (even long shorts) and
yoga/fitness pants are unacceptable. Jeans are not permitted except on Fridays. Widely accepted
business casual guidelines (no ripped or faded jeans, no tennis shoes or flip flops, for instance) should
still be adhered to even on our “dress down” Fridays. Nametags also need to be worn when working.
The purpose of Gateway Academy’s student dress code is to encourage our children to express their
originality and identity by the way they use their gifts and talents to serve the Lord and others rather
than by the way they dress. In order for us to expect our students to bring glory to God (1 Corinthians
10:31) in an atmosphere free from distraction, our Gateway teachers and staff need to set an example
for our students with regards to dress and attire. Female staff please take all precautions to be
conservative when selecting the clothing you wear, especially with regards to low cut tops since working
with children often times requires bending down. Ladies are not permitted to wear excessive, attention
getting make-up, hair-styles, hair coloring, or colored fingernail polish. Excessive jewelry (multiple ear
rings; body piercings; body markings or tattoos – temporary or permanent – are not allowed to be
visible to our students & families. Jewelry, accessories and shoes should complement and not distract
from ones attire.
For male staff, hair should be neat in appearance (not obscuring the eyebrows or hanging below the
collar) and in a masculine style. Body piercings or body markings / tattoos of any kind are not allowed to
be visible to our students and families.
Throughout the year, there are scheduled special events where staff should adhere to a more specific
dress code. These events (such as Field Trips, Open Houses, Seasonal Programs, etc.) will have clearly
communicated staff dress code expectations that all staff will need to abide by (i.e., the wearing of
Gateway colors -- burgundy & khaki on all field trips).
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Working Environment
Gateway Academy and Destiny Worship Center attempts to provide employees with a clean and
pleasant working environment. The housekeeping of work areas is primarily the responsibility of our
facility team; however, it is also the responsibility of each employee to maintain a clean and orderly
classroom and to assist if necessary in preparing their classroom space for other ministry programs that
follow Gateway use. Although we know that storage is necessary (but challenging) for any classroom
environment, piles of materials or manipulatives can give the impression of a teaching environment that
lacks preparation and adequate attention to student learning. To avoid this, please make an extra
effort to keep your classroom free from clutter. Bookshelves, table tops, and areas beside or above
classroom storage cabinets are to be kept functional but tidy.
Any items that need attention from maintenance should be reported to Gateway’s Administration so
arrangements can be made to address the issue. In order for Gateway to adhere to custodial and
maintenance guidelines. NO Gateway staff member should go directly to facility team members with
classroom requests. Requests should only be made through Destiny’s ‘Help Spot’ coordination software
program.
Although all attempts will be made to limit the amount of assistance our classroom staff is asked to
provide our facility team, with a church our size it is impossible to expect our facility team to cover every
need 100% of the time. For this reason, our classroom leaders could be asked to assist our facility team
through small tasks such as stacking chairs or tables, carrying daily trash to a central location for pick-up,
wiping down student desks, preparing classrooms for possible weekend use by Destiny Kids, etc. In the
event that these requests are made of our teaching staff, it is expected that they will be completed with
an attitude of teamwork and cooperation with the other ministries of our church staff.
All areas of Gateway and Destiny Worship Center’s facilities are on a set cleaning schedule. Special set
up or cleaning services that are needed for special events that you plan for your classroom need to be
communicated to Gateway’s Administration so that our facility team can be properly notified and a plan
can be put in place to meet the specific needs being requested. (See Room Reservations / Special Event
Requirements section below for more detailed information on special event requirements.)
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Room Reservations / Special Event Requirements
Destiny Worship Center is a growing vibrant church with lots of different events occurring at our facility
for both our congregation and our community. Because of this, the scheduling of any special events
must be entered into our church’s calendar system and communicated to the rest of our Destiny staff,
especially our facility team. Teachers are encouraged to plan special events or activities for the children
and their parents throughout the year. To ensure a smooth event for you, teachers must submit a Room
Reservation / Special Event Requirement Form (Appendix C) to Brittany Smith in our Gateway office well
in advance of the event occurring for proper scheduling of support services. Special events of a small
nature (specific grade level activities, class parties, etc.) should be requested at least 3 weeks prior to
the event. Larger, school wide events that will require the support from Destiny’s media, worship, or
creative department (i.e., Christmas program, Field Day) should be requested at least 6 weeks prior to
the event. Approval of the event must be received before any advertisement or communication is
made to your parents. This advanced time period allows for any conflicts to be resolved or for
rescheduling to be made prior to the dissemination of event details to our Gateway families.
Once an event has been properly booked through the office, future communication will occur directly
between the teacher requesting services and the department providing them. Our Gateway
Administration team is more than willing to assist when needed and when possible, but will not be
responsible for follow-up and oversight of each teacher’s individual requests.
Communication with our Gateway Welcome Desk of all special events is critical and the direct
responsibility of all staff when planning and implementing any special event occurring either on or off
campus. This provision of specific event details allows our front desk team to be able to correctly
answer parent questions or direct families to the proper location. Reminders in writing to our front
desk is also requested the morning of your program so that front desk staff (or any volunteers who
might be serving with us that day) are made aware of your special event and can professionally
represent Gateway as they interact with our center’s families and attending community members.
Purchase Reimbursements
Gateway recognizes that it is not uncommon for educators to spend their own money from time to time
on their classroom and/or their students. Although we cannot completely offset these types of
expenditures, we will be providing $100 for each PreK-3 through 8th grade classroom in an effort to
assist. As long as these funds are used to further instructional goals or enhance learning opportunities,
full discretion is given to teachers on how to best utilize this money. Purchases can be made by our
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Gateway Office team if completed “online carts” are forwarded to Jeanine Reny and American Express
cards are accepted by the supplier. Reimbursements receipts for these expenditures must be
submitted within 30 days of the purchase. Any receipts turned in for reimbursement outside of this
allowable 30 day period will not be able to be processed by our Gateway/Destiny Worship accounting
department and therefore declined for reimbursement. In an effort to prevent our finance department
from processing multiple “small” reimbursement checks, Gateway reserves the right to delay
reimbursement until the total amount of the check being executed exceeds $20. (See Appendix H for
Classroom Expense & Reimbursement Request Form). Any other classroom purchases or requests
MUST be approved by our Gateway Principal prior to its purchase. Items acquired without receiving
prior permission WILL NOT be reimbursed by Gateway Administration.
Parking
In an effort to reserve our facility’s closest parking spots for our Gateway Academy and Destiny Worship
Center families, we respectfully ask that our Gateway staff park no closer than the 2nd row of parking
spots directly outside and to the right of our school entrance doors. Any parking closer to these slots on
our campus is NOT an option for staff members. However, staff is welcome to unload any heavy or
bulky materials from their vehicles at our car ramp overhang prior to parking and entering the building.
Worker / Child Supervision
Appropriate child supervision is paramount to keeping our Gateway students and staff safe while on
campus. At no time should students be left unattended or placed in a location where they are not in
direct sight of our Gateway staff. Should a situation arise were you as a staff member need help of any
kind, assistance can be requested by dialing our Gateway Welcome Desk at ext. 201. Communicating
your need to our front desk attendants will allow them to secure the necessary resources from our
Administration or Facility Team to assist you.
Teachers are required to keep with them at all times, especially when they are away from their
classrooms, a method of communication with our Gateway Welcome Desk. Personal cell phones can be
used for this purpose if they are used strictly for center purposes during the school day. Making or
receiving calls, texts, video streaming, or social media except in emergency situations while in the
classroom or during times when staff is responsible for oversight of children is NOT permitted. Text or
phone calls from family only is permitted only in emergency situations.
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Children are encouraged to enter the bathrooms and take care of themselves individually. An adult
should never be behind a closed bathroom door with a child alone. In case of an emergency, such as
illness or a hygiene accident, two adults should be present to care for the child.
School Year
Gateway Academy’s school year will follow closely, but not be identical to, the Walton County school
year calendar. In cases of severe weather, we will have cancellations consistent with Walton County
Schools.
At the beginning of each school year, Gateway will hold a school orientation where our students and
families will have the chance to see their classrooms and meet their teachers. This meeting will be
welcoming in nature only. Rules, guidelines, and specific classroom policies and procedures will not be
addressed at this orientation. This type of information will be communicated to families through
smaller parent nights hosted by each individual teacher.
In the fall, parent-teacher conferences will be scheduled for our Gateway preschool and Kindergarten
classes. In the spring, all Gateway preschool and elementary classrooms will need to meet with their
student’s parents. Substitutes will be provided for these parent conference days, however it will be
each teacher’s responsibility to schedule alternative meeting times should families not be able to attend
on their assigned conference days. Because of the nature of our middle school structure, conferences
will be held as needed and requested by our Gateway families and/or staff.
From time to time throughout the school year, Gateway staff will be required to attend events and
functions occurring outside of our normal school days/times. Staff meetings, Open House, Field Day
Christmas programs, World’s Fair events, and fundraising programs are examples of such events
(although not an inclusive list). Attendance at these ministry outreach events is part of your
contracted year (not additional paid time/days) and are required (regardless of whether they occur
inside or outside our typical school day times or outside regularly scheduled workdays for part-time
employees). Times when the Gateway staff is required to stay these extended times and/or attend a
night event will be kept at a minimum and may change from previous years or from previous schedules
due to ministry and outreach needs. Gateway’s Administration reserves the right to reschedule ministry
events (such as Open House, Christmas plays, etc.), that are otherwise noted on the school calendar.
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School calendars for 2016-2017 school year are posted on our password protected staff website. In an
effort to build team and plan collectively as a group, all teacher work days are mandatory duty days
for all Gateway employees, regardless of whether they fall on a normally scheduled day for each
employee. Should extreme circumstances arise or ministry needs require, Gateway reserves the right to
alter the 2017-2018 calendar schedule.
School Hours
Class times for our Gateway Academy programs are below:
Preschool / Elementary (K3 – 5th) 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Middle (6th-8th) 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Teachers and assistants should arrive by 8:00am and prepare to continue their work day until 3:30pm
each day. This will provide for classroom preparation and planning as well as the safe arrival and
dismissal of our children. Parents are strongly encouraged to participate in our daily car ramp drop off
and pick up. In order for our school days to begin as quickly as possible to maximize instructional time,
it is imperative that car ramp begin promptly at 8:15am. Team meetings for K through 5th grade will be
held each afternoon at 2:50pm. Dismissal of our students to their parents in the afternoon will begin at
3:00pm. All staff will be assigned specific duty locations during our car ramp arrival, team meeting
and departure process.
Attendance of our Gateway students will be taken by our classroom staff and entered into our
GradeLink® report card program each morning. Students arriving after the completion of car ramp will
need to be signed in at our Gateway Welcome Desk by their parents and receive a tardy slip prior to
going to class. Students that are signed in by the parents will receive tardy slips coded as excused.
Students that are not accompanied by their parents when they arrive late will receive tardy slips coded
as unexcused. Unexcused tardy slips will result in zeros being assigned for any missed work or
assessment pieces that occurred during the student’s absence (tests, quizzes, participation grades, etc.)
Parent support in assisting with timely school arrival is being highly encouraged by our Gateway
Administration. Arriving on time is an important life skill that develops good character habits. Tardiness
will be documented on students’ report cards.
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Mandatory Staff Meetings / Age Level Planning Meetings / Staff Prayer
Gateway believes strongly in the power of prayer and we recognize that only through the intervention
of the Holy Spirit in our center will eternal impact be made in the lives of our children and our families.
Our God is faithful to work miracles in our school if we will simply ask and invite Him to do so. Prayer
meetings will be held each morning at 8:05am in the Fellowship Hall to uplift our children, our staff, our
families, and our school to the Lord. Each staff member will lead our time of prayer on a rotational basis
throughout the school year. Our faithfulness in meeting as a staff to invite our Savior to be in our
midst and to be active in our school is the most important thing we can do as a team each week.
Therefore, attendance at these prayer meetings is mandatory. Please plan accordingly so that your
schedules can be open enough each morning to allow this prayer time to be one of reverence rather
than ritual.
Gateway staff meetings will be held during the 2017-2018 school year on teacher work days scheduled
for August 2-8, October 9, January 3, March 16, and May 25. Attendance at these meetings is
mandatory unless prior arrangements have been made with Gateway’s Principal or if there is an
emergency situation. Should an absence be unavoidable, it is the sole responsibility of each employee
to get ALL of the information discussed and the directives given from the meeting they missed.
Age level planning meetings for preschool, elementary, middle school, and special areas will be on
Wednesday afternoons on an as needed basis. Since each age level will not be meeting every
Wednesday, notification of scheduled meetings will be communicated to staff no later than the Monday
before. To allow for these meetings to be as effective as possible, all staff members are expected to
keep Wednesdays free of other obligations so that attendance at their specific age level meeting, when
called, is possible. Prior arrangements must be made with Gateway’s Principal should an absence have
to occur at one of these age level meetings. It is also the sole responsibility of each employee to get ALL
of the information discussed and the directives given from the age level meeting they missed.
Curriculum
Gateway believes strongly that our classrooms should be designed around the developmental needs of
our children. Young children learn best when new information is presented to them in a format that is
hands-on and manipulative in nature, so they can experience their learning with all of their senses. Our
early childhood and elementary classrooms should so be structured that children are engaged in these
types of discovery activities for the majority of their day. Our older children learn best when they have
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opportunities to work cooperatively with other students and take ownership of their learning by
showing their skill and concept mastery through varying modalities allowing them to capitalize on their
individual learning strengths. Therefore, our elementary and middle school classrooms should be
structured to provide for these types of activities on a regular basis.
Gateway is committed to providing the necessary curriculum, manipulatives and technology for this type
of teaching and classroom environment for all of our students. Great care has gone into the selection of
our school’s curriculum textbooks and learning programs. Teachers are free to supplement these
curriculum elements as best fits their teaching style and student needs, but NO supplemental material
can take precedence over what has been put in place. Suggestions from our classroom teachers is
strongly encouraged if the curriculum is not matching the developmental needs of our children, but
deviation from our approved curriculum without prior approval from Gateway Academy’s
Administration is strictly prohibited.
As a private Christian school, Gateway is extremely blessed to have the privilege of instructing our
students daily in the Truths given to us in God’s Holy Word. Each classroom’s Bible time will be a
priority in their academic day. Gateway staff is also encouraged to intertwine Biblical teaching and
concepts whenever appropriate into all other academic subjects being taught. Faithfulness in keeping
God at the center of our instruction will allow Him to bless our classrooms with His divine favor and will
empower our students towards excellence in all their academic subjects.
Lesson Plans
Lesson plans should be on school premises and available during all school hours should a need arise
for them. Copies of your classroom lesson plans must be submitted each week no later than the end
of the day on Mondays to our Gateway Administration. Lesson plans must be completed on the Lesson
Plan Template and must be copied and submitted in hard copy form. Originals may be maintained by
each teacher and must be in plain view or posted in the classroom.
Report Cards
Student progress is reported four times a year following each of our four academic quarters. Our first 3
quarters will be communicated to parents via our online Gradelink® program. Year-end report cards will
be handed out to families on the last day of school or mailed to parents in hard-copy form after the
conclusion of our 2017-2018 school year to parents whose financial obligations with the school have
been fulfilled.
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Teachers are responsible for assigning subject, work habits and behavior grades; subgrades and/or
student codes; and completing teacher comments for each child each quarter. Completion of these
grading requirements typically falls within the week prior to the end of the 9-weeks. However, due to
Gateway’s End-of-Year programs and the need to print final report cards prior to the last day of the
year, grades will be cut-off several weeks before the end of the year. NO grades will be able to be
pulled past this final 9-weeks grading deadline as any grade changes or additions could cause shifting
in class ranking or award selections.
Because grades and current averages are available to parents and students 24/7 through Gradelink®,
progress reports are not issued. Parents must indicate review of all report cards, with the exception of
final report cards, by signing and returning their child’s Report Card Acknowledgement Form to their
child’s teacher. Parents and students have 2 weeks from the date that report cards are issued to
dispute any grade or attendance issue. After that time all grades and attendance records stand and
may not be disputed.
Grading Policy
Assessment is a vital part of learning. It’s a time to celebrate the accomplishments of our students, plan
for future instruction, and develop strategies to meet individual student needs in their quest to grow
and develop into their fullest potential. When teachers inform students of how grades will be
determined in a particular subject, they are defining the standards and instructional requirements for
that subject as well as setting learning goals for their students to strive towards. Subsequently, the
reporting of progress/grades to parents informs them of the degree to which student success in learning
has occurred.
Progress for our youngest preschool children is developmentally based and communicated to parents
multiple times a year though parent-teacher conferences. Collected portfolio work samples, skill
mastery checklists, and teacher observations are the tools our early childhood teachers utilize for
showing our parents the growth their child is experiencing. The Kindergarten year is a time of great
transition for students as this is the year when they begin to engage in more independent work activities
and textbook learning. Because of this, student growth in our Kindergarten classroom is reported to
parents through the use of the following grading scale: E = Excellent, G = Good, S = Satisfactory, and
NI = Needs Improvement.
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To give our students the best possible opportunity to succeed, grades for our 1st-8th grade students are
based each reporting period on a variety of learning activities such as those listed below.
Classwork Work completed in the classroom setting. Classwork can include, but is not limited to:
Active participation and focused attention in whole and/or small group discussions, presentations, and activities
Learning participation in group project /activities
Notebooks/journals
Written responses to specific constructed questions or learning activities
Completion of class assignments
Homework Work completed outside of class to be graded on its completion. Assignments can include, but is not limited to:
Nightly/weekly reading assignments and reading logs
Individual text/worksheet assignments for skill practice and concept reviews
Winter/Spring Break packets
Assessments Testing pieces of both the traditional (exams and quizzes) and alternative (presentations, projects, portfolios) methods of assessing student learning and concept mastery.
Exams/unit or chapter
Tests/quizzes/exit tickets
Research/unit projects
Oral presentations/interviews
Accelerated Reader/Literature Reading
Individualized reading practice (completed both at home and at school) demonstrated through
completion of book/novel content testing
Teachers will have a sufficient quantity (minimum of 5) and variety of grades during each grading period
to accurately reflect academic achievement. Individual class percentages will be clearly outlined for
students and parents by each classroom teacher at the beginning of each school year. At no time will
a single assignment/assessment grade count for more than 20% of the total average regardless of the
grade category above. It is important to note, however, that some major projects may comprise more
than one assignment. Calculated averages reported on report cards will not exceed 100%.
Because of the importance of testing assessment pieces, students must have ample time to prepare for
these before they occur. Strong communication between the school and home on upcoming tests and
the content covered in these assessments will help parents support their children at home and will build
a bridge between home and school. All staff, needs to provide a minimum of 2 school days notice of
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student testing prior to its completion, unless the assessment being taken is designed as a pop quiz and
pulled infrequently throughout the year. Teachers also need to guard closely against placing students in
too many testing situations at any particular time. No student should be asked to perform on more
than 2 tests on any given day or on more than 5 tests in any given week. In subjects and/or grades
where students are changing classes, teachers will need to maintain constant communication of
upcoming testing situations to students via visual notations within the classroom (i.e. bulletin board or
classroom white boards).
Grades at Gateway Academy are earned by students, not given by teachers and will be reported using
the following grading scale. Teachers are free to give extra credit, or bonus work, to their students.
However, the points earned for this work, or the benefits received for extra credit, cannot be at a level
so substantial that it skews the scores of a student and reflects mastery of material and skills at a level
not attained by a child within the scope of regularly collected grades.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their students about their school work and contact teachers first
should there be a question regarding grading.
Achievement Code Skills A+ = 97-100% D+ = 67-69% (+) = Area of Strength
A = 93-96% D = 63-66% () = Grade Level Standards Met
A- = 90-92% D- = 60-62% (-) = Area for Improvement
B+ = 87-89% F = 59% & below
B = 83-86%
B- = 80-82% E = Excellent
C+ = 77-79% G = Good
C = 73-76% S = Satisfactory
C- = 70-72% NI = Needs Improvement
Standardized Achievement Testing
Each year in the spring, students in K – 8th grades take the Terra Nova® standardized achievement test.
This test is a nationally referenced criterion test. Students are assessed in each major subject area and
compared to other students across the nation in both public and other ACSI Christian schools. Results
for each child are sent home with their final report card after the end of school each year.
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School Records
Student cumulative records are kept in confidential fire-proof cabinets in the school office. Cumulative
records may not be removed from the school office at any time. Only staff members have access to
these files. This includes Gateway Administration and the current teacher. Parents may review their
child’s file in the school office with an administrative staff member present and with the permission of
the Principal. When a student transfers to another school, a written request from the school must be
received to initiate the transfer of the student’s records. Gateway Academy reserves the right to
determine what records to transfer. Official transcripts will only be sent in sealed envelopes to schools
or other entities as requested by the receiving institution. All outstanding fees and charges must be
paid in order for records to be sent.
Media Policy
Appropriate use of media is necessary in the design of any program to guarantee the developmental
appropriateness of the center’s programming and to maximize available teaching time for our students.
Gateway’s Administration recognizes the value of media such as videos, DVD’s, electronic games, and
computers.
Gateway also assumes that teachers will exercise their professional judgment when choosing to use
these media venues in their classrooms. The following guidelines are intended to facilitate a responsible
use of this medium.
Our policy for media use in all of our Gateway classrooms adheres to the following parameters:
ELECTRONIC MEDIA:
• Will only be used to support curriculum objectives
• Will be age appropriate
• Will not be used for reward and/or entertainment purposes
• Will not violate copyright law in any way
• Will only be used if it is provided by approved Christian publishers or is included with approved
Christian curriculum
Will receive approval from Gateway Administration for any media, especially that which was
created by secular companies, PRIOR to its usage in the classroom
Teachers are to keep parents generally informed of media use in their classrooms. If parents have
concerns about the type or level of media use their child’s classroom, the procedure outlined below
shall be considered:
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• Parents should speak to their child’s teacher about their concerns.
• If the concerns are not satisfactorily addressed, parents should speak with our Gateway
Administration for assistance in addressing the issue.
Staff Cell Phone Use
All staff are required to have a method of communication with our school offices with them at all times
should there be a reason to report emergencies or request help. This communication can be in the form
of a personal cell phone if used appropriately.
Personal cell phone use should occur in emergency situations only that are related to the work
environment and supervision of your classroom, your children, or in instances of a personal family crisis.
Personal use of an employee’s cell phone for a situation other than above will be in violation of policy
and result in disciplinary actions. Because we realize that situations do occur from time to time where
organizations or individuals outside of Gateway will need to contact our staff, our Welcome Desk
contact information may be used for communication purposes during the school day. Our Welcome
Desk will gladly receive and relay messages to our staff during appropriate times of your school day
allowing you to respond to these messages when you do not have student oversight responsibilities. Our
Welcome Desk can be reached by calling 654-9095 ext. 201.
Social Media Guidelines
Social Media can be a great tool for gathering information and connecting with others. Its sheer
prevalence and popularity in our society also displays the impact it can have on others. Although
Gateway does not want to impede our staff’s right to engage in social media, staff postings (even on
personal accounts) of images, actions, and text through that medium does reflect back on Gateway
Academy and Destiny Worship Center. Therefore, the following principles for professional use of social
media on behalf of Gateway Academy, as well as personal use of social media for all Gateway employees
will need to adhere to the following guidelines. A breech of these social media policies will be seen as a
serious infraction by Gateway leadership and could result in disciplinary action.
All staff should adhere to Gateway’s Standards of Christian & Professional Conduct, this
employee handbook, and all other school policies when using social media in reference to
Gateway Academy or Destiny Worship Center.
Staff should be aware of the effect their postings may have on their image and Christian witness,
as well as Gateway’s & DWC’s images. The information that employees post or publish may be
public information for a long time.
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Staff should be aware that Gateway & DWC may observe content and information made
available by employees through social media. Employees should take great care to not publish
material that is inappropriate or harmful to Gateway, our staff, our leadership, our families, or
our students in any way. Although not an exclusive list, some specific examples of prohibited
social media conduct include posting commentary, content, or images that are confrontational,
hurtful, controversial, contrary to DWC doctrine, or that can create a hostile work environment.
Employees are not to publish, post or release any information that is considered confidential or
not public. If there are questions about what is considered confidential, employees should check
with Gateway leadership, specifically our Gateway principal.
Social media networks, blogs and other types of online content sometimes generate press and
media attention or legal questions. Employees should refer these inquiries to authorized
Gateway leadership.
If employees encounter a situation while using social media that threatens to become
antagonistic, employees should disengage from the dialogue in a polite manner and seek the
advice of a supervisor.
Personal social media use is prohibited during school hours as it would directly interfere with
our staff’s ability to provide appropriate student oversight and educational opportunities at
Gateway.
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Contact Numbers – 911 South Walton Dispatch ▪ 850-267-2000
Sheriff’s Office Direct Number ▪ 850-892-8111
Emergency procedure drills such as fire, tornado, and Code L (intruder alert) are held periodically to
acquaint both the children and staff with emergency procedures. Each classroom location will have
emergency maps posted that will give you the location you should report to during drills and emergency
situations. Please remember that you must have your class roll and communication strategy (i.e. cell
phone) with you at all times. In the event of any emergency procedure drill or actual emergency
situation, it is imperative that our classroom teachers use their class roll to ensure that all children are
present with them in a safe situation by performing a name to face confirmation. Should any students
be missing or in need of assistance, teachers are to notify the Administration offices immediately.
Below are specific directions and detailed guidelines that our Gateway staff will need to follow should
emergency situations arise here at school.
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1. SEVERE WEATHER - Inclement weather associated with high winds or lightning storms could
pose a threat.
When alerted:
o You may be asked to move to the hall or spaces on the interior of the building.
o Remain calm.
o Remain in place until the “all clear” sounds or you receive further instructions.
Tornado Watch Procedures
o Staff will be advised of tornado watch conditions by office staff or through our phone
system intercom system.
o Keep students calm.
o Continue teaching.
o Stay in the classroom unless otherwise instructed.
o In case of a tornado warning, certain staff members will be pre-assigned to report to
exterior doors to watch for a tornado.
o If a tornado is sighted, watchers will immediately notify the office and move to a safe
location.
Tornado Warning Procedures
o Staff will be advised on the intercom of a tornado warning by an announcement
including wording such as… “There is a tornado warning for our area; report to your
assigned shelter areas immediately”.
o Staff and students are to go immediately to designated shelter areas.
Designated Shelter Area for Gateway Academy Student and Staff.
o Take hallways to the exit door between the Gateway Academy and the Destiny Worship
Center area.
o Proceed to the first entrances to the auditorium located in front of the Children’s Check-
in Station, after entering the auditorium proceed to the left and right of the wall of the
upper seating area in a single file, quickly and quietly get into the protection position.
o For protection, have students crouch down on elbows, draw knees up under the body,
and cover the back of the head with arms.
o If you see or hear the tornado coming, do not wait for the warning signal. Go to the
assigned shelter single file, quickly, and quietly, if there is time. If not, curl up on the
floor and cover heads with arms.
o If weather and time permit, loose items inside and outside of the building should be put
in a safe place by administration and Destiny facility staff.
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o If a tornado warning is issued at the end of the school day, keep the students in school
until it is safe for them to leave. No student will be dismissed from school during a
tornado warning, unless the parent(s) pick(s) up the student.
o Teachers are to take the student record book with phone numbers and books to read to
the students in the shelter area.
o Tornado shelter areas are to be posted in each room by the fire exit map.
o The School Administrator or designee will check classroom and restrooms.
o There will be an “ALL CLEAR” announcement when it is safe.
o If a tornado should occur during recess, students should safely get to a low area to lie
down and students are to lie flat on the ground and cover heads and faces with their
arms. It is highly probable that if the weather conditions were favorable for a tornado,
the students would be inside for recess.
Lightning Precaution Procedures
When you are supervising students outside and see lightning, hear thunder and can determine
the storm is less than five miles away, students should be brought inside immediately. If you can
hear thunder the storm is close enough to be dangerous. The best way to measure how far the
lightning strike was is by counting off the distance between the lightning and thunder in
seconds. The sound of thunder can travel one mile in five seconds. After you see the lightning,
begin counting off the seconds. If, for example, you count ten seconds then the lightning was
two miles away. Scientists say if you are less than six miles away you are in the high danger
zone. This is because lightning can strike several miles away from a storm cloud.
2. SHELTER IN PLACE DUE TO HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Due to the location of Destiny Worship Center and Gateway Academy to at least 3 sources of
Chlorine Gas within a ½ mile radius and the proximity to two major intersections on Hwy 98 and
no ability to evacuate students in mass, Shelter in Place means to seek immediate shelter and
remain where you are rather than evacuate the area. This will be performed when evacuation
would subject you to greater risk.
General Procedures
o Building occupants will be verbally advised of “shelter in place”.
o REMAIN CALM. PROCEED TO DESIGNATED SHELTER IN PLACE LOCATION.
o All building occupants are to vacate any areas that have external windows (unless
otherwise notified by emergency personnel).
What to Expect
o All exits and entrances will be secured.
o NO ONE WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER OR LEAVE THE BUILDING.
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o For hazardous materials incidents, seal all cracks around doors and windows while
occupants are moving to the designated shelter in place locations.
o School Administrator should have Hazardous Materials Incident Response Kit including
Duct Tape and pre-cut plastic sheeting to seal all external doors.
o Plans should be in place to cut power to the heating/air units.
o LENGTH OF TIME TO SHELTER IN PLACE WILL BE DETERMINED BY THE NATURE AND
EXTENT OF THE EMERGENCY.
3. PROCEDURES ON FIRE / SMOKE EMERGENCIES AND NATURAL GAS LEAKS. FIRE OR
SMOKE EMERGENCIES
Fire Precautions
o Know the location of fire alarms.
o Know the location of fire exits.
o Know at least two exits from building.
o This building is a smoke free environment. There is NO smoking on school grounds.
o Report all safety concerns to the School Administrator or Designee.
General Procedures if you notice fire or smoke
o DIAL 911.
o Give the following information to the Operator:
o Your name.
o Phone number.
o Address.
o Description of what is burning, if possible.
o Have someone else simultaneously notify others in your area and sound the fire alarm.
o Assist anyone who needs help evacuating.
o Follow instructions from emergency personnel.
o The last person or teacher leaving should turn out lights, close the classroom door, and
the outside door.
o Students will walk quietly, quickly, and directly to their designated area.
o If your regular exit is blocked, know the closest alternate exit and inform the students.
o Teachers must bring the attendance records with phone numbers outside and check to
see if any student is missing. If there is a missing child, notification is to be given to the
School Administrator or Designee IMMEDIATELY.
o Only use a fire extinguisher if you are properly trained.
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If you become trapped in a building during a fire:
o Remain calm.
o If you are on the ground floor and if a window that opens is available carefully climb out if
you can do so safely.
o If there is no window, stay near the floor where the air will have less smoke.
o Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency crews of your location.
o If you are in a room with the door closed, feel the door with the back of your hand. If the
door is warm, do not open it. If smoke is entering the room through cracks around the door,
place cloth towels or a coat in the cracks to slow the flow.
Fire Drills
A fire drill will be held in the school at least 5 times per year. The purpose of a fire drill is:
o To ensure orderly exit (quietly and quickly) under controlled supervision and prevent
panic, which has been responsible for the majority of injuries in major historical fire
disasters.
o Complete control of the class is necessary so teachers can quickly and calmly form
ranks, stop movements of students, halt, and turn or direct them as desired.
o Everyone MUST evacuate the building for a fire drill.
Natural Gas Leaks
o Report any suspected Gas Leak to the school office immediately.
o If a Gas Leak occurs with a school classroom or lunch room, normal classroom evacuation
procedures should be implemented. If the room has an outside door it should be open to
provide ventilation, shut the hallway door after the last occupant has left.
4. Active Shooter / Code L Situations
In the event of an Active Shooter on campus, teachers will need to do all that is possible to secure the
safety of the children in their care and to notify the administration of any missing children. Below are
the action steps to take should our school ever experience an active shooter on campus.
Get Out of the area if you can do so safely
o If you decide to flee, make sure you can do it safely and have an escape route to the Destiny
Worship Center Annex Building across Poinciana Blvd.
o Get out fast.
o Leave your belongings behind.
o The best way to survive an active shooter situation is to not be where the shooter is and not go
where he can see you.
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Call Out to police authorities and Gateway Administration
o Call 911. Do not assume someone else has called the police. You may be the first report.
o Be persistent in calling because the phone lines may be jammed.
o Communicate your location and the status of your class and children to Gateway
Administration.
Hide Out to avoid being seen by the shooter
o If you cannot “Get Out,” you should “Hide Out”
o Get everyone to lie down away from windows or areas where they can be seen
o Silence cell phones, close blinds, turn off lights, stay on floor, and do not peek out doors or
windows.
o If in a hallway, look for an unlocked room or closet to hide in.
Once you have accessed the safety of all your students, please notify our Gateway Principal, or their
designee, of your status by sending a text with the count of the children and the color code that
applies to your room:
Green-everyone safe and accounted for in your room
Yellow-assistance is needed of some kind in your room
Red-all staff and students are not accounted for in your room
Sondra Dutram, our Gateway Principal can be reached at 850-543-8517, Brittany Smith can be reached at 850-621-5077 and our Welcome Desk can be reached at 654-9095, ext. 201.
Keep Out the perpetrator
o Lock Classroom doors if possible. If doors cannot be locked, barricade with desks or tables.
o Turn out lights
o Do not pull fire alarms or evacuate rooms or buildings…unless directed by emergency
responders.
o If you cannot find a secure area, make use of whatever barrier you can place between yourself
and the shooter.
Spread Out to avoid becoming an easy target
o Although huddling together for mutual protection and moral support is not advised, with young
children keeping them close to you might be needed. This can allow for you to calm their fears
and repeatedly remind them of the importance of remaining quiet. Deciding which course to
take is something each classroom teacher will need to decide should they find themselves and
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their class in an active shooter situation. Do whatever you need to do for the safety of your
children!
o Spreading out makes for a harder target for the shooter.
o If safe to do so, talk about what to do if the shooter enters the room.
Help Out by aiding others who need assistance
o If you leave the area, help others escape as you go.
o Help prevent others from entering the danger area.
o If someone near you has a life-threatening injury, and it is possible to provide first-aid to keep
them alive, then do so.
o If in a secured area, consider the risk exposure created by opening that secured area.
o Attempts to rescue people should only be made if it can be done without further endangering
the people inside the secured area.
Figure Out what needs to happen next
o Keep in mind that as events unfold, you must continue to pay attention to what is happening so
you can figure out what to do next and adjust your actions accordingly.
Take Out the shooter as a last resort
o If there is absolutely no other opportunity for escape or survival, you must be committed to this
action. The shooter’s very presence is a threat to your life.
o Be prepared to do whatever it takes to neutralize the threat. This is not a time to throw up your
hands and resist passively. See your decision through.
o To do so you will have to become more aggressive than you ever thought possible.
o Throw things,
o Use improvised weapons (books, etc.)
o Fight to live
Confidential Information
Because of the nature of the work that is done with our Gateway children and families and through the
ministries of Destiny Worship Center, especially with regards to developmental issues of the children or
personal family situations, confidentially is very important. It is expected that all employees will keep
circumstances and names surrounding any student or anyone being counseled by the staff confidential.
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Field Trips
Field trips are a powerful way to supplement the classroom curriculum and bring learning to life. They
are also a time when students make memories that they will hold with them for a lifetime. Each grade
level will have funds provided to cover (or help offset the cost of) off site field trips each year. These
field trips must relevantly connect to classroom curriculum or study units. Pertinent information such as
date, time, location, transportation, and academic purpose must be submitted in writing for approval
from Gateway Administration prior to any information dissemination to parents. Once approved,
teachers will send home field trip permission slips and details prior to each trip that must be completed
and returned for a student to attend. A sample field trip form is provided for your review in Appendix E.
Each student is also required to have a Liability Waiver (Appendix D) on file in the office prior to
participating in any off-site opportunity.
These off-campus opportunities will require parent participation and transportation in order for our
children to attend. Parent volunteers may also be needed for supervision during such excursions.
Parents who wish to serve as chaperones should notify their child’s teacher of their availability. Siblings
of Gateway students and chaperones are not permitted to attend class field trips.
In order to participate in a field trip, a student must demonstrate that he/she has the discipline to obey
rules and regulations that are necessary to have a safe and successful trip. Students are required to
abide by all special occasion dress code requirements while representing Gateway Academy on a field
trip. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in the child not being allowed to participate
in the field trip opportunity. Gateway Administration reserves the right to keep a child from going on a
field trip due to behavior or dress code infractions or to send a student home from a field trip if the
student’s behavior is inappropriate.
Parent / Student Handbook Guidelines
Gateway Academy acknowledges that optimal learning environments can only be created when there is
a strong partnership between both the school and our families. To help facilitate communication on
important school and classroom issues and set clear expectations and boundaries for our students, all of
our Gateway families will have access to a Parent / Student Handbook through our password protected
website. It is the responsibility of our Gateway staff to familiarize themselves with the policies that are
outlined in this parent document, especially on topics such as
Computer / Student Internet Acceptable Use Policy
Student Electronic Devices / Cell Phone Policy
Student Discipline Policy
Authorized Adult Policy
Sick Child Policy / Illnesses
Medication Policy
Accident Report Procedures
Chapel
Allergies / Peanut & Tree Nut Free Zone
Chain of Command Communication Policy
Student Dress Code Policy
Parent Involvement / Parent-Teacher Conferences / Open House
Appendix A • Corrective Action Plan
Corrective Action Meeting Plan
Employee______________________________________________Date ____________________
Administrative Representative _____________________________________________________
Event Description:
Required Corrective Actions:
Required Completion Date: ____________ Corrective Action Evaluator: ____________________
Method of Verification of Completion:_______________________________________________
Employee Comments:
Employee Signature _____________________________________________________________
Administration Representative Signature ____________________________________________
Appendix B • Absence Form
Staff Absence Request
Absence Information
Campus: Destin PCB
Employee Name:
Type of Absence Requested:
Sick Vacation Other Time Off Without Pay
Professional Dev. Jury Duty
Dates of Absence: From: To:
Reason for Absence:
You must submit requests for absences, other than sick leave, two weeks prior to the first day you will be absent.
Employee Signature Date
Principal Approval
Approved
Rejected Comments:
Principal Signature Date
Confirmed Substitute
Substitute Name and Contact Number: __________________________________________________________________
Appendix C • Room Reservation Form
“I am the gate. Whoever enters through Me will be kept safe.” John 10:9
Room Reservation / Special Event Requirement Form
Reservation information is due 3 weeks prior to event for smaller individual activities & 6 weeks
prior to event for larger / school wide functions. Forms submitted after that time run a higher risk
of being declined.
Teacher Name: _____________________________________________________________________
Name of Event: _____________________________________________________________________
Date of Event: ___________________________ Actual Start Time of Event:_________________
Time Needed for Resource Set Up & Clean Up: _______________________________________
End Time of Event: _______________________ Location of Event:_________________________
Number of Children Attending: ______________ Number of Adults Attending:____________
Special Services Needed (i.e. tech support, equipment) List in detail all that apply:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Facility Needs (please be specific): ______________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Room Set Up Diagram:
Note: Once an event has been properly booked through the office, future communication will occur
directly between the teacher requesting services and the department providing them. Our Gateway
Administration team is more than willing to assist when needed and when possible, but will not be
responsible for follow-up and/or oversight of each teacher’s individual requests.
Appendix D • Liability Waiver
Gateway Academy L iabi l i ty Waiver and
Parental Support Agreements
This Parental Agreement Statement will be in effect for as long as my children listed below,
or others to be enrolled, attend Gateway Academy.
We agree to hold the school and its agents harmless for any liability to my child or any
guardian or parent thereof; because of any claims on behalf of my child against the school
or any agent thereof; for any reason be taken against Gateway Academy or any employee
or agent thereof on my child’s behalf. If the school or its agent not be found at fault, we
agree to pay all attorney fees, court fees, damages, or other costs that Gateway Academy or
its agent should incur to defend itself against such action.
We understand that should my marital status change, it is my responsibility to have a
corrected Parental Agreement Statement signed, updated, and delivered to Gateway
Academy.
We realize that Gateway Academy is an extension of me, the parent, and we pledge my
prayerful support to the school administration and faculty. We will make every effort to
work with the school personnel to insure the best possible learning experience for my child.
We have read the Gateway Academy Handbook and agree to support and comply with
the policies and procedures stated in the handbook.
We agree to allow Gateway Academy to publish the following information in the
Family Directory: student’s name, parent’s names, address, phone numbers, and e-
mail address. Directories are provided only to Gateway Academy families and Gateway
Academy staff on the password protected parent tab on the school website.
Child(ren)’s Name(s): __________________________________________________________________
Mother’s Name:______________________________ Father’s Name:____________________________
Signature: __________________________________ Signature: ________________________________
Date: ______________________________________ Date: ___________________________________
Appendix E • Sample Field Trip Permission Form
8th Grade Service Trip
Dear Parents,
The generosity and dedication of our middle school students has so impressed The Blue Door Ministry in Destin that they have extended an invitation for them to come and serve the needy in our community first hand. What a testament to our students and a true opportunity for our children to reach out and impact those around them for Jesus Christ. I know I’m inspired by their excitement to not just learn about being the hands and feet of Jesus, but to actively put their faith into action to reach out and touch the lives of those around them. Your completion of this form will allow them to be a part of this with us.
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” James 1:22
What: 8th Grade Service Trip to the Blue Door Ministry at St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea, Destin (307 Harbor Blvd)
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2015
Responsible Staff: Sondra Dutram & Santiago Rodriguez
Times: Leave Gateway @ 9:30am / Return @ 12:10pm (Students will be a little late to lunch, but will be
returning in time to eat at the school)
Required Dress Code: Collared Gateway logoed shirt & tennis shoes
Transportation: Personal vehicle (Ms. Dutram & Mr. Rodriguez will be driving)
Request: One dozen home-baked cookies, brownies, etc. (for our students to bless those they serve
during our trip)
PERMISSION SLIP FOR FIELD TRIP
I give permission for my child, _________________________________________ (first & last name) to attend with Gateway Academy staff on a service trip to The Blue Door Ministries located at St. Andrews By-the-Sea church in Destin (307 Harbor Blvd.) on Thursday, May 14, 2015. I can be reached at (____)_______________ during the hours of the field trip if needed.
Printed name of parent / guardian: _____________________________________________________________
Signature of parent/guardian: ____________________________________________Date:______________
Permission forms must be returned prior to departure on Thursday morning, May 14th
Appendix F • Transportation Form
Gateway Academy Transportation Form
The Gateway Academy handbook states the following:
Gateway Academy will only allow individuals that the parent has authorized in writing on their child’s
Transportation Form (available under the Admission tab on our website www.thegatewayacademy.com/enrollment/ ) to
pick up their child. Please let us know in advance when someone from your list is picking your child up so we can
notify the appropriate staff of the change in dismissal for your student. Please also notify those picking up your
child that they will need to be prepared to show identification. If your child is to be released to anyone other than
a person on your transportation form, please revise your pick-up authorization in person. Phone calls or emails will
not be permitted. We must have authorization in writing. Safety is our primary concern for your child, and we
appreciate your help and support.
Students must be secured in a child car seat, booster seat, or seat belt upon arrival and dismissal. If someone other than parent is transporting student, please provide them with a car seat or leave a car seat in the school office with your child’s name taped to the seat.
Name of student(s) 1. _________________________________________________________________
2. _________________________________________________________________
3. _________________________________________________________________
4. _________________________________________________________________
Please list names & phone numbers of authorized persons who may transport your child.
This list must include at least 2 current Gateway families. Additional names and contact numbers can be added to the back of this sheet as well.
1. __________________________________________________________ Phone number _____________________
2. __________________________________________________________ Phone number _____________________
3. __________________________________________________________ Phone number _____________________
4. __________________________________________________________ Phone number _____________________
Appendix G • Anaphylaxis Action Plan
Anaphylaxis Action Plan
Student’s Name _____________________________________ D.O.B. _____________________
Teacher ____________________ Allergic To: _________________________________________
Asthmatic □ Yes □ No ** Higher risk for severe reaction
STEP 1: TREATMENT
Symptoms: Give Checked Medication
▪ If a food allergen has been ingested, but no symptoms: □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Mouth – Itching, tingling, or swelling of lips, tongue, mouth □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Skin – Hives, itchy rash, swelling of the face or extremities □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Gut – Nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Throat – Tightening of throat, hoarseness, hacking cough □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Lung – Shortness of breath, repetitive coughing, wheezing □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Heart – Thready pulse, low blood pressure, fainting, pale, blueness □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ Other _________________________________________________ □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine ▪ If reaction is progressing (several of the above areas affected) □ EpiPen □ Antihistamine
Dosage:
Epinephrine: inject intramuscularly (circle one) EpiPen EpiPen Jr. (see original packaging container for instructions)
Antihistamine: give ____________________________________________________________________
Other: give ___________________________________________________________________________
STEP 2: EMERGENCY CALLS
1. Call 911. State that an allergic reaction has been treated and additional epinephrine may be needed.
2. Dr. ________________________________ at phone number ____________________________. 3. Emergency Contacts:
Name/Relationship Phone Number(s) a.__________________________________ 1. ________________________ 2. ______________ b. _________________________________ 1. ________________________ 2. ______________ c. __________________________________1. ________________________ 2. ______________
EVEN IF PARENT/GUARDIAN CANNOT BE REACHED, DO NOT HESITATE TO MEDICATE OR TAKE CHILD TO MEDICAL FACILITY!
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________________ Date __________________
Doctor’s Signature _______________________________________________ Date __________________
Place
Child’s
Picture
Here
(medication/dose/route)
(medication/dose/route)
(Bold indicates potentially life-threatening) (To be determined by physician authorizing treatment)
Appendix H • Classroom Expense & Reimbursement Request Form
“I am the gate. Whoever enters through Me will be kept safe.” John 10:9
Classroom Expense and Reimbursement Request Form
Reimbursement receipts, along with this form for these expenditures, must be submitted within 30 days of
purchase. Any receipts turned in for reimbursement outside of this allowable 30 day period will not be able to be
processed by our Gateway/Destiny Worship accounting department and therefore declined for reimbursement. In
an effort to prevent our finance department from processing multiple “small” reimbursement checks, Gateway
reserves the right to delay reimbursement until the total amount of the check being executed exceeds $20. Any
other classroom purchases or requests MUST be approved by our Gateway Principal prior to its purchase. Items
acquired without receiving prior permission WILL NOT be reimbursed by Gateway Administration.
Date of Request: ___________________________ Total Amount: ______________________
Teacher Name: _____________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ____________________________________________________________________
Please provide details below of expenses based on receipts given:
Description of Items Subject Supporting Reoccurring Expense /
One Time Purchase
Necessary Item /
Desired Item
□ Reoccurring Expense
□ One Time Purchase
□ Necessary Item
□ Desired Item
□ Reoccurring Expense
□ One Time Purchase
□ Necessary Item
□ Desired Item
□ Reoccurring Expense
□ One Time Purchase
□ Necessary Item
□ Desired Item
□ Reoccurring Expense
□ One Time Purchase
□ Necessary Item
□ Desired Item
□ Reoccurring Expense
□ One Time Purchase
□ Necessary Item
□ Desired Item
Please summarize how the above items will enhance your student’s learning:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Once reimbursement is approved, accounting will not process reimbursement until two weeks
after the approved form has been submitted.