KESWICK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL - 2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Saint Petersburg, Florida 33708
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KESWICK
CHRISTIAN
SCHOOL
2018-2019
Upper School
Student Handbook
10101 54th Ave N
Saint Petersburg, Florida 33708
(727) 393 – 9100
www.keswickchristian.orgJuly 2018
Dear Keswick Families,
This year’s theme – So will I - comes to us from a song published by Hillsong United and Psalm 66:4, “All the earth
bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name.” The song and the verse
reverberate the desire of a pure Christian heart to join all creation in worship. This is best exemplified in a line
from the song that states, “If creation sings Your praises so will I.” Our goal this school year is to eternally impact
the lives of our students, helping them own these statements by empowering them to be passionate in their love
and zeal for Christ. Thank you for partnering with us in this formidable endeavor.
This handbook contains the policies, procedures, and parameters to foster the best academic and spiritual
environment possible. It is essential that all students and parents read the handbook carefully and become
familiar with the stated policies and practices. Some sections deserve added attention: Student Academic
Policies, Student Conduct Policies, Dress Code, and Student Life.
It is an honor and joy to partner together to facilitate the academic and spiritual growth of our students. Our
focus is Jesus. Our goal is His glory. Our means: humbly serving the Keswick families by providing the best
environment possible for student success. This is done by denying self, taking up our crosses, and following
knowing all things are attainable through Him.
As always, please contact the Upper School Offices if you have any questions.
In His Grace,
Jon Skilton
Jon Skilton
Upper School Principal
Keswick Christian School
Please note:
a. The handbook does not serve to contractually bind Keswick in any way
b. The handbook is subject to change without notice by Keswick’s Board of Directors.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 1Table of Contents
Introduction 5-6
Mission Statement 5
Vision 5
Core Values 5
Code of Ethics 5
Heritage of KCS 5-6
Educational Philosophy 6
Accreditation 6
Spiritual Life 6-7
Statement of Faith 6-7
Spiritual Formation 7
Ministry Leadership Institute 7
Christian Service 7
Bible Studies 7
Bible Version Use 7
Chapel Programs 7
Student Academic Policies 8-12
Admission and Retentions 8
Non-discriminatory Policy 8
Academic Honesty 8
Advanced Placement (AP) Course Expectations 8
Online Coursework 8
Graduation and College Admissions 8
Report Cards, Grading Scale, Grade Weighting System 9
Commencement Honors (Valedictorian, Salutatorian, KCS Scholars) 9
Special Recognition (Highest Honors, High Honors, Honors) 9-10
Year-end Academic Awards 10
Grade Promotion 10
Academic Probation 10
Grade Deficiency Process 10-11
Credit Recovery Process/Course Failure 11
Summer School 11
Athletic Eligibility 11
Semester Examinations 11
Examination Procedures 11
Semester Exam Exemptions 11
Testing 11-12
Care of Textbooks, Workbooks, and iPads 12
Library Regulations 12
Student Conduct Policies 12-15
Standards of Conduct 12
Bullying Policy 13
Upper School Disciplinary Policies 13-14
• Level 1-2 Infractions 13
• Level 3 Infractions 13-14
• Zero Tolerance Infractions 14
• Drug Testing 14
• Accumulation of Points 14
• Detentions 14-15
• Suspensions 15
• Behavioral Probation 15
• Dismissal 15
Bus Transportation 15
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 2Attendance Policies 16-17
Absences 16
Athletes 16
Absences Due to Illness 16
Absence Procedure 16
Absence Limits 16
Attendance Appeal 16
Make-up Work 16
Pre-Planned Absences 16
College Visits 16
Tardiness 16
Hall Passes 17
Field Trips/Volunteer Background Checks 17
Student Life 17-27
Dress Code 17
• General Standards for All Students 17-18
• Uniform Standards for Girls 18
• Uniform Standards for Boys 18
• Dress Down Day Policy 18
• Consequences for Non-Compliance 18
Student Health 18-19
• Physical Examinations 18-19
• Immunizations 19
• Health Condition Referrals 19
• Medical Release Form 19
• Sports Physical Examinations 20
• Medications 20
• 24-hour Rule 20
Vehicle Use 20
• Parking Fee 20
• Student Parking Lot 20
• Forfeiture of Driving Privileges 20
Student Services 21
• Photographs 21
• Class Rings 21
• Lost and Found 21
• Lockers 21
• Locks 21
• Telephones 21
Privileges 21-23
• Senior Privileges 21
• Spiritual Retreats 21
• Senior Trip 21
• Commencement Activities 21
• Cell Phones and Electronics 21-22
• Bring your Own Device (BYOD) Agreement 22
• Teacher Responsibilities 22-23
• Student Responsibilities 23
• Network Access 23
• Theft or Damage of Device 23
• Calculators 23
Student Activities 23-25
• Athletic Program 23-24
• Fine Arts Program 24
• Student Council 24
• School Yearbook 24
• Parties 24
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 3• School Socials 24
• Socials Unrelated to KCS/Parent Responsibility 24
Student Use of Technology 25-26
• Educational Purpose 25
• Student Internet Access 25
• Unacceptable Uses 25-26
• Illegal Activities 26
• System Security 26
• Inappropriate Language 26
• Inappropriate Access to Material 26-27
• Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement 27
• Respecting Resource Limits 27
• Rights 27
Campus Life 27-29
Arrival Procedures 27
Morning Traffic 28
Afternoon Traffic 28
Parent Parking 28
Departure Procedures 28
Third Party Car Services 28
Upper School Aftercare Program 28
Traffic Safety 28
Lunch Procedures 28
Security 28
Emergency Closing Procedures 28
Pet Policy 29
Fire Drills 29
Tornado Warning Drills 29
Bomb Threats 29
Lockdowns 29
False Alarms 29
Parent Involvement Information 29-30
Parent Participation, Parent-Teacher Fellowship 29
Parent Teacher Conferences: Communication to the Home 30
Keswick Communication 30
Upper School Offices 30
Volunteers 30
Tuition and Fees Policy 30-32
Responsibility for Debts 30
Technology Fee 30
Testing Fee 30
Registration Fees and Re-enrollment Fee 30
Consumable Supply Fees 31
Activity Fees 31
Athletic Fee 31
Band, Choir, and Instrument Rental Fees 31
Graduation Fee 31
Tuition Payments, Payment Expectations 31
Withdrawals 31
Lunch Accounts 31
Financial Aid 31
Fundraising 31
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 4Introduction
Mission Statement
Responding to the biblical command that families raise their children in the knowledge and admonition of the Lord,
Keswick Christian School KCS provides a Christ-centered education, grounded in a Christian worldview, that instills and
reinforces Christian thought, belief and practice in all areas of life.
Vision
KCS will be the premier God-glorifying school in Pinellas County excelling in academics, athletics, and the arts while
graduating young people who love, trust, and obey God.
Core Values
KCS (KCS) will demonstrate in all its actions and beliefs that it values:
• a biblically based educational experience that honors and glorifies God.
• the authority and responsibility of Christian families to educate God’s children.
• the spiritual authority and responsibility of the local church.
• academic discipline and excellence modeled and provided by skilled Christian educators.
• an affordable educational experience that addresses the spiritual, mental, physical, and social needs of its
students.
• a safe and secure environment for its students, parents, employees and visitors.
• institutional financial transparency and accountability.
Code of Ethics
(Exodus 20.1-17; Psalm 73.25-26; Matthew 22.37-40; I Corinthians 10.31)
Because of God’s grace alone through faith alone on account of Christ alone, every member of the KCS community
ought to:
• fear, love, trust, and enjoy God above all things.
• think, speak, and do all things for the glory of God alone and the physical and spiritual benefit of others.
• fear and love God so that he does not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon
it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks.
• fear and love God so that he does not despise preaching and His Word but hold it sacred and gladly hear and
learn it.
• fear and love God so that he does not despise or anger his parents and other authorities, but honor them,
serve and obey them, love and cherish them.
• fear and love God so that he does not hurt or harm his neighbor in his body, but help and support him in
every physical need.
• fear and love God so that he leads a sexually pure and decent life in what he thinks, says, and does.
• fear and love God so that he does not take his neighbor’s money or possessions, or get them in a dishonest
way, but help him to improve and protect his possessions.
• fear and love God so that he does not tell lies about his neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his
reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.
• fear and love God so that he does not scheme to get what belongs to his neighbor, or get it in any way which
only appears right, but helps and is of service to him in keeping it.
Heritage of KCS
KCS is a non-denominational, private, non-profit Christian school, which was founded by Ruth Munce in 1953 as the
Grace Livingston Hill School. Mrs. Munce, a Bible teacher and missionary, named the small campus in memory of her
mother, a Christian author.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 5Keswick gained its present name in 1961 when Bill Caldwell assumed responsibility for the school and established the
Southern Keswick family of ministries, KCS, Keswick Bible Conference, and Keswick Radio. At that time enrollment was
81 students. In 1978, all three ministries were given to Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, which operated them as part
of its worldwide network of Christian training and service ministries.
In 1996, KCS became an independent Christian school owned and operated by a local School Board. KCS is located on
a beautiful 30-acre campus in Seminole, Florida and is a preschool through grade 12 liberal arts, college preparatory,
Christ-centered day school. Historically, over ninety-five percent of KCS graduates continue their formal education
after high school. Our graduating classes for the past few years have received thousands of dollars in scholarships,
including the Florida Bright Future Academic and Merit Scholarships.
Educational Philosophy
KCS exists to support the biblical training received by its students in the home and in the church. This includes working
to achieve a redemptive goal. Children are sinners who need to be redeemed and then submit to the authority of God
in all areas of life. Parents and the Christian community, including the church and the Christian school, are God’s
instruments to bring this about. Therefore, working cooperatively with the home and church, Keswick’s goal for each
child is that he or she will acquire, believe, and apply the knowledge, understanding, skills, wisdom, and virtues to take
dominion over creation for the glory of God and the good of others.
Accreditation
Keswick is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and Association of Christian Schools
International (ASCI).
Spiritual Life
Statement of Faith
• We believe the Bible to be verbally inspired by the Holy Spirit in the original manuscripts, and to be the
infallible and authoritative Word of God. (II Tim. 3:16; II Peter 1:21)
• We believe in the Triune Godhead in three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — three persons and yet but
one God. (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; I Cor. 8:6)
• We believe in the personality of Satan, called the Devil, and his present control over unregenerate mankind.
(Gen. 3:1,14,15; II Cor. 11:14; Luke 10:18; Eph. 6:11,12;2:2; Rev. 12:9,10)
• We believe in the fallen and lost estate of man, whose total depravity makes necessary the new birth.
(Romans 3:10,23; John 3:3)
• We believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, death, bodily resurrection, present exaltation at God’s
right hand, and personal and imminent return. (Col. 1:15; Matt. 1:18-25; Matt. 28:1-10; Acts 1:9-11; Hebrews
1:1-4; I Thess. 4:16-18)
• We believe that salvation is the gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ, whose precious blood was shed on Calvary for the forgiveness of our sins. (John 1:12; Acts
4:12; Eph. 1:7; 2:8-10; I Pet. 1:18-19)
• We believe in the resurrection of the saved unto everlasting life and blessedness in heaven, and the
resurrection of the unsaved unto everlasting punishment in hell. (I Cor. 15:50-58; Rev. 20:4-6; 11-15; II Thess.
1:7-10)
• We are members of the church, The Body and Bride of Christ, consisting only of those who are born again, for
whom He now makes intercession in heaven and for whom He shall come again. (Acts 13:38,39; Acts 2:41;
Eph.1:3-6; I Cor. 12:12,13; Rev. 11:15-17)
• We believe Christ’s great commission to the Church to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every
creature, baptizing and teaching those who believe. (Matt 28:18-20)
• We believe marriage is ordained of God and is a spiritual and physical union in which a man and a woman
are joined by God to live together as one. (Genesis 2:24; Mark 10:7) We believe that God has commanded
that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. We
believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, transgenderism, bestiality, incest,
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 6fornication, adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex and identity. (Genesis
2:24; Genesis 19:5, 13; Genesis 26:8-9; Leviticus 18:1-30; Romans 1:26-29; I Corinthians 5:1, 6:9; 1
Thessalonians 4:1-8; Hebrews 13:4)
• We believe that God wonderfully foreordained and immutably created each person as either male or
female in conformity with their biological sex. These two distinct yet complementary genders together
reflect the image and nature of God (Genesis 1:26-27).
Final Authority for Matters of Belief and Conduct: The statement of faith does not exhaust the extent of our
beliefs. 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 sole and final source of all that we believe. For
purposes of KCS’s faith, doctrine, practice, policy, and discipline, our board of directors is Keswick’s final
interpretive authority on the Bible’s meaning and application.
Spiritual Formation
KCS is committed to the spiritual formation of each student. To that end a Spiritual Formation Director is on staff
to provide oversight, direction, and leadership. In addition, a spiritual formation team is in place and made up of
the spiritual formation director, upper school principal, guidance counselor, and Bible department head.
Spiritual formation is currently divided into the following areas: Chapel, Ministry Leadership Team, prayer and
fasting, small groups, SALT (salt and light together), special events, discipleship, and Bible classes.
Ministry Leadership Institute
In an intentional effort to train the next generation of Christian leaders, KCS initiated a magnet program in the Fall
of 2016 entitled the Ministry Leadership Institute. This magnet program is focused on training and equipping
student in grades nine through twelve who have already identified a desire to serve in full-time church work or
who have a strong desire to use their God-given profession to fully walk out their faith.
Students in this program commit to meeting three times per quarter, study the given course curriculum for each
semester, engage in extra service hours through the Servant Leadership Team, and complete an internship
program set up through the program and a local church.
Christian Service
Every Christian is called to follow Christ’s example and serve others. (John 13:15) Our students at Keswick have many
opportunities to serve at home, school, and in the community. We share God’s love with our local community and
abroad through student mission trips, Keswick Serves, Servant Leadership Team, and various other outreach groups.
Bible Studies
High School and Middle School students at Keswick have the opportunity to participate in Bible studies, small groups,
and prayer. Listing of times and locations of these Bible studies will be available in the office.
Bible Version Use
Faculty members will use the English Standard Version (ESV), New American Standard Version (NAS), the New King
James Version (NKJV), the King James Version (KJV), the New International Version (NIV), the New English Translation
(NET), the Revised Standard Version (RSV), or the New Living Translation (NLT) in their daily Bible instruction. Students
should have a copy of one of these versions for their use at school at all times. Teachers may standardize which
translation they desire for student memorization purposes.
Chapel Programs
The primary purpose of the weekly chapel time is to provide opportunity for inspiration and worship. This special time
of the week will allow students to learn from a variety of Christian leaders, develop ministry skills, and give students
sound Biblical teaching. Students without a predefined role should enter quietly and maintain a worshipful attitude
throughout chapel. Bibles should accompany students to every chapel.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 7Student Academic Policies
Admission and Retentions
Admission to KCS is a privilege. It is a privilege granted to those students and families who manifest a desire to live
and work as Bible-believing, consecrated Christians. The school reserves the right to dismiss any student and family
who does not support or cooperate with the goals of the learning community.
Non-discriminatory Policy
KCS admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities of
its educational policies, scholarships or any other school-administered programs.
Academic Honesty
Keswick Christian works hard to develop integrity. Teachers will take the time to review what academic honesty is,
but students will be held responsible in the following areas:
• Cheating on tests or quizzes by sharing answers
• Obtaining answers for a test or quiz
• Submitting a paper or project that is not the student’s work
• Falsifying information for forms or assignments
• Submitting work your parents, other students, or another company completed for you.
• Plagiarism by failing to properly cite another’s published work.
• iPad integrity regarding all aspects of academic honesty.
Cheating is a serious violation of Christian character and conduct and will be dealt with accordingly. First occurrence
will result in a “zero” grade and a parental contact/conference. Any further occurrence will warrant suspension from
school and could result in expulsion.
Advanced Placement Course Expectations
Keswick offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and students are encouraged to challenge themselves in
the demanding curricula. Placement in these courses is determined by teacher recommendation and previous grades
in content area. Any student enrolling in an AP class is committing to take the AP exam at the end of the year. Any
student who fails to live up to AP standards may be removed from that class by a joint decision of the teacher, the
department chair, and the administration.
Online Coursework
A student at KCS is an active, direct participant in the life of our school community – academically, socially, spiritually,
both curricular and extracurricular. KCS encourages students to explore enrichment opportunities, including online
coursework. The following guidelines apply to KCS students taking courses online:
• All online coursework must be approved in advance by the Upper School administration.
• Only courses not currently offered in the Upper School curriculum may be considered for approval.
• The online course provider must be accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
• No more than four (4) credits of online coursework may be included toward Keswick GPA.
• High School students are allowed a maximum of six (6) semesters of remedial coursework.
• Middle School students are allowed a maximum of eight (8) semesters of remedial coursework.
• No tuition discount is provided for an online course taken in lieu of a Keswick course.
Graduation and College Admissions
Please refer to the KCS Guidance Director.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 8Report Cards
Report cards are issued electronically every quarter.
KCS Grading Scale:
A+ = 96.5 – 110 A = 92.5 – 96.4 A- = 89.5 – 92.4
B+ = 86.5 – 89.4 B = 82.5 – 86.4 B- = 79.5 – 82.4
C+ = 76.5 – 79.4 C = 72.5 – 76.4 C- = 69.5 – 72.4
D+ = 66.5 – 69.4 D = 62.5 – 66.4 D- = 59.5 – 62.4
F = 0 – 59.4
Grade Weighting System
KCS’s Upper School uses a weighted grading system to quantify and reward the rigor required to do well in Honors and
AP courses. In Advanced Placement courses, grades of C- and above earn an extra 1.0 point in the calculation of the
student's GPA. For Honors courses, grades of C- or above earn an extra 0 .5 point. D's in such courses do not qualify for
any additional weighting.
KCS grade-weighting system:
Letter College Preparatory Honors (Dual Credit) Advanced Placement (AP)
A+ (96.5 – 110) 4.3 4.8 5.3
A (92.5 – 96.4) 4.0 4.5 5.0
A- (89.5 – 92.4) 3.7 4.2 4.7
B+ (86.5 – 89.4) 3.3 3.8 4.3
B (82.5 – 86.4) 3.0 3.5 4.0
B- (79.5 – 82.4) 2.7 3.2 3.7
C+ (76.5 – 79.4) 2.3 2.8 3.3
C (72.5 – 76.4) 2.0 2.5 3.0
C- (69.5 – 72.4) 1.7 2.2 2.7
D+ (66.5 – 69.4) 1.3 N/A N/A
D (62.5 – 66.4) 1.0 N/A N/A
D- (59.5 – 62.4) 0.7 N/A N/A
F 0.0 N/A N/A
Commencement Honors
Students are recognized at graduation for the following achievements:
• Valedictorian: The member of the senior class with the highest weighted cumulative academic GPA through
the end of the first semester of the senior year. To qualify, students must be at KCS at least three years.
• Salutatorian: The member of the senior class with the second highest weighted cumulative academic GPA at
the end of the first semester of the senior year. To qualify, students must be at KCS at least three years.
• KCS Scholars: Awarded to those students who met the requirements of the KCS Scholars Program.
Special Recognition
Students are recognized at the End of the Year Awards for the following achievements:
• Highest Honors: Awarded to students whose weighted cumulative academic GPA is 4.25 and higher at the
end of the first semester.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 9• High Honors: Awarded to students whose weighted cumulative academic GPA is between 3.95 and 4.24 at
the end of the First Semester.
• Honors: Awarded to students whose weighted cumulative academic GPA is between 3.65 and 3.94 at the end
of the First Semester.
Year-end Academic Awards
In addition to honors accommodations, students are eligible to receive a “subject area award” given for those
students demonstrating excellence, passion, and a desire to excel in that given discipline.
Grade Promotion
A final grade of 60 or above is considered passing for all subjects in grades 6-11. A student failing to achieve these
grades shall perform corrective action approved by the school before proceeding to the next course level.
• Middle School: a student who receives an F grade in three or more academic subjects (Bible, English, Social
Studies, Mathematics, Science) must repeat the entire grade. A student who fails two academic subjects may
be promoted to the next grade, on academic probation. Note: Middle School students are allowed a
maximum of eight (8) semesters of remedial coursework
• High School: a student’s class standing is based on the number of credits accumulated by passing high school
courses. Note: High School students are allowed a maximum of six (6) semesters of remedial coursework.
High school class standings and grade placement require that, at the beginning of a school year, students have
accumulated the following number of high school credits:
• 10th grade 6-12 credits
• 11th grade 13-18 credits
• 12th grade 19-24 credits
• Graduation 25+ credits from grades 9-12. This includes passing a Bible course for each
semester in attendance at KCS.
Algebra 1 is fundamental for future math success. All students must successfully pass Algebra 1 at KCS. This
course cannot be made up online. If a student transfers to KCS and has completed Algebra 1 prior to attending
KCS they may be required to demonstrate mastery of Algebra 1 and/or retake Algebra 1 at KCS.
Academic Probation
Students may be placed on academic probation when (1) their grade point average on the quarterly report card is
lower than 2.0, (2) the student did not pass a course for the semester, or (3) upon enrolling at KCS, through
administrative discretion, a student is given academic probation to evaluate and monitor their academic success.
When on academic probation the administration, parents, and student will meet to discuss the expectations and
measures to be taken to correct any academic deficiencies. The parents, student, guidance counselor, and principal
will meet quarterly to monitor progress. Two or more quarters with no marked improvement in academic
performance may result in dismissal from KCS.
Grade Deficiency Process
The Grade Deficiency Process is designed to give students incentive to keep grades above 60% (passing). A grade
deficiency occurs when a student’s grade falls below a 60%. The purpose is to prevent course failures and provide
early intervention to improve academic performance.
When a student’s grade falls below a 60% the following actions are necessitated:
• The teacher will contact the family communicating the current grade and the corrective measures needed to
bring the grade above 60%.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 10• The student and parent assume responsibility for (1) completing any missing work, (2) contacting the teacher
to address and clarify the deficiencies and corrective measures needed, (3) schedule tutoring sessions with
the teacher and/or an outside resource.
Credit Recovery Process/Course Failure
When a student fails a course at KCS the guidance counselor will send home a letter communicating the failure and
loss of credit for that semester. It is the parent’s responsibility to contact the guidance counselor to discuss
alternatives for making up the lost credit. Options for making up the credit are limited to (1) retaking the course at
KCS, (2) taking the course through a local public school’s summer school program, (3) taking the course through
Florida Virtual School, or (4) taking the course through a KCS approved, accredited academic agency. Note: KCS retains
the right to approve a suitable means for approved course work to replace the failing grade in a class.
Summer School
KCS does not conduct an academic summer school but Keswick will work with any student who needs a class due to
course failure by approving and assisting in finding an appropriate means to credit recovery.
Any student who re-takes a class will have the new grade averaged with their course failure for the purpose of the
transcript. Concerning athletic eligibility Keswick will follow FHSAA guidelines and replace any course failure with the
new earned grade. To clarify Keswick averages the new grade for transcripts and FHSAA replaces the grade for
eligibility.
Athletic Eligibility
KCS follows the Florida High School Athletic Association guidelines for academic eligibility. To be eligible, students
need to have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above to be eligible to participate in athletics and
extracurricular activities. Eligibility is accessed by the athletic director after each semester, based on the most current
cumulative GPA, and either affirms or denies eligibility for the next semester.
Semester Examinations
Exam schedules and detailed information concerning exams will be distributed to students each semester.
Examination Procedures
• Students are expected to be at school for that portion of the day during which their examinations are given.
Throughout the examination period, students are expected to remain in the testing room for the duration.
• Any conflicts in the examination schedule should be addressed with the teacher. Students who are not
scheduled for exams on a given day are not expected to report to school. Students who need to be at school
during examination times, though not scheduled for an examination, must report to the room designated for
that purpose.
Semester Exam Exemptions
Subject to the individual teacher’s discretion, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may exempt final exams if they meet
all the following criteria in the course whose exam is to be exempted.
• The semester average must be 92.5% or above.
• Both quarter averages are above 87%.
• The student may not have missed more than nine (9) classes during the semester. (Absence due to school-
sponsored activities will not be included in the total of absences for that class. If a student is found to have
cut any class during the semester, he or she will not be allowed to exempt any exams.)
Testing
Classroom teachers will administer subject matter examinations at the end of each unit or area of study. Teachers may
also administer quizzes at any time during a unit of study. In general, the following are rules applied to test
implementation in the upper school:
• A minimum of three (3) tests are given per quarter
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 11• No more than 2 tests in Middle School and 3 tests in High School will be given on any given day.
• No tests are given on Thursday to promote youth group participation.
Care of Textbooks, Workbooks, and iPads
All hardback textbooks that are issued to students remain the property of KCS. Textbooks must be handled with care
and kept in good condition, free from marks and writing. Any damage must be paid for by the end of the school year.
The student’s name is to be printed, in ink, in the space provided on the inside cover.
• Book Covers: All school-owned textbooks must be covered with KCS book covers with the printed side out.
• Workbooks and certain paperback books are the property of the student.
• iPads (Refer to Acceptable Use of Technology Policy).
Library Regulations
The school has a library staffed by a library/media specialist. The library is available to students during the school day.
Library rules and regulations are posted. Fines are assessed on overdue books.
Students may use the library during the school day, with permission from the teacher and librarian, for the following
reasons: (1) To check out a book, (2) to do research.
Student Conduct Policies
As Christians, our conduct should reflect 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye
do, do all to the glory of God.” KCS is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, God-honoring environment. To
sustain this environment, the Keswick community agrees to follow God’s commandment to “Love the Lord our God”
and “Love our neighbor as ourselves,” thereby respecting others in our words and actions.
Standards of Conduct
Because of God’s grace alone through faith alone on account of Christ alone, every member of the KCS community
ought to:
• fear, love, trust, and enjoy God above all things.
• think, speak, and do all things for the glory of God alone and the physical and spiritual benefit of others.
• fear and love God so that he does not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call
upon it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks.
• fear and love God so that he does not despise preaching and His Word but hold it sacred and gladly hear
and learn it.
• fear and love God so that he does not despise or anger his parents and other authorities, but honor
them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them.
• fear and love God so that he does not hurt or harm his neighbor in his body, but help and support him in
every physical need.
• fear and love God so that he leads a sexually pure and decent life in what he says and does.
• fear and love God so that he does not take his neighbor’s money or possessions, or get them in any
dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his possessions.
• fear and love God so that he does not tell lies about his neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his
reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.
• fear and love God so that he does not scheme to get what belongs to his neighbor, or get it in any way
which only appears right, but help and is of service to him in keeping it.
• Fear and love God so dressing is in conformance with one’s biological sex.
• Fear and love God so using rest rooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities conform with one’s
biological sex.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 12Bullying Policy
Stopbullying.gov defines bullying as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real
or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Bullying
includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding
someone from a group on purpose.”
Typically, bullying will have the following characteristics: Unwanted, unsolicited, aggressive, intentional, malicious,
repetitive, and inflicted to create a power imbalance.
KCS is committee to handling issues of this nature by addressing them expediently. To properly monitor perceived
acts of bullying, we ask for immediate communication from students, parents, staff, and teachers. Administration will
then communicate with the parents of those being bullied as well as those parents of the accused. Once all parties
have been informed, administration will address any incidence appropriately based on the level of offense. Each
situation is unique and will be handled accordingly.
Bullying will not be tolerated on campus, at school-related functions, or through the use of technology (cyber-
bullying).
Upper School (Grades 6-12) Disciplinary Policies
The three-fold responsibility of KCS is to educate students, develop students spiritually, and discipline. As defined by
Webster, discipline is “behavior that corrects, guides, and molds character.” Our responsibility does not include
punishment, that is the God-given responsibility of the parent. Our discipline system is communicative not punitive,
and our point system, detentions, classroom consequences are all aligned to discipline (correct, guide, and mold
character) and place the punitive side of a student’s misbehavior with the family.
The classroom teacher is the God-ordained authority, under the authority of the principal, to create and maintain a
disciplined and productive Christ-honoring learning environment.
To maintain an atmosphere optimizing academic performance and spiritual formation a point system is in place to (1)
report infractions to the home, and (2) hold students accountable to school rules, regulations, policies, and
procedures.
Based on severity points fluctuate from 10 (Level 1, tardy to school) to a minimum 300 for Level 3 infractions. Parent
involvement is encouraged and expected to partner together to correct inappropriate behavior.
KCS Administration reserves the sole right to determine the level of an infraction.
Level 1 Infractions
• Infraction examples (not exhaustive or exclusive): dress code infractions, locker misuse or abuse,
unexcused tardiness to class, gum chewing, general classroom disturbances, leaving supervised areas,
lying, profanity, abuse of permission, disregard for previous warnings, public display of affection (PDA).
• Minimum of 20 points per occurrence. [Note: Tardy to school is 10 points.]
Level 2 Infractions
• Infraction examples (not exhaustive or exclusive): academic dishonesty (cheating), bullying, disrespect,
skipping class, leaving campus without permission, failure to sign in or sign out appropriately with the
upper school office, gambling.
• Minimum of 100 points per occurrence.
Level 3 Infractions
• Infraction examples (not exhaustive or exclusive): vandalism, threats, fighting, truancy, sexual
harassment, participation in misdemeanor level illegal activities on or off campus.
• Minimum of 300 points per occurrence.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 13Zero Tolerance Infractions
• When the administration has reasonable certainty or unequivocal proof that a zero-tolerance infraction
has occurred an investigation, evaluation, and review will take place leading up to and including
dismissal.
• Infraction examples (not exhaustive or exclusive): possession of a weapon (on person, in vehicle, or in
locker), use or possession of tobacco or vaping materials, use or possession of alcohol, use or possession
of illegal drugs, abuse of prescription drugs, use or possession of occult material, sexual immorality, or
involvement in felony level illegal activities. Sexual immorality would include but not limited to
fornication, homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, transgenderism, bestiality, pornography, and
exchange of sexually inappropriate pictures.
• This policy is in effect whether these offenses take place on or off campus. It is the sole reserved right of
the administration to make the final decision in all instances.
Drug Testing
KCS (KCS) reserves the right to demand drug testing of any student at any time that KCS has reasonable suspicion (in
its sole judgment) that illegal drugs may have been used or prescription drugs abused.
Accumulation of points
Disciplinary points are accumulated throughout the school year. They are not refreshed or wiped out at the semester
break. As an incentive, any student with less than 100 points at the semester break will have their record purged for
the beginning of second semester.
Detentions
Students will serve a detention with the accumulation of every 100 points. Detentions will be assigned by
administration and will be served for a one-hour period after school hours. Students must also pay a fine the day they
serve their detention. The fines will help to defray the cost of paying staff to monitor the detention hall.
Fines for detentions:
• 100-200 points Detention $10.00 fine
• 300-500 points Detention $20.00 fine
• 600-800 points Detention $30.00 fine
• 900 points Dismissal
Students will be expected to serve the full hour, serving the detention in the manner assigned, whether in-classroom
work, or work duty. Repetitive detentions may carry additional disciplinary points as a penalty. Parents will be
informed of detentions in advance through onCampus.
Suspensions
Students incurring infractions that are evaluated and deemed appropriate for suspension will be assigned an out-of-
school suspension.
• Out-of-school suspensions vary in length from 1 to 10 days.
• Students must pay a $30.00 fine for this suspension.
• All school work will be completed as assigned by the teaching staff and the student may receive “0’s” on
all regular class work for that day.
• Students are allowed to make up tests and major projects.
School Activities Restricted During Suspension
The student is not permitted to be on campus for the duration of the suspension. On the day(s) of a suspension,
students are not permitted to attend, or participate in, any school activities on or off campus.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 14Behavior Probation
Students may be placed on behavior probation for the following reasons:
• Any student returning to KCS after being dismissed from KCS or another school, after completing
reinstatement protocols, will be on Behavior Probation the remainder of their enrollment at KCS.
• Any current student who re-enrolls at KCS and accumulated 500 or more points the previous school year.
• Any student, within the administration’s sole discretion, who may need closer supervision to guide
appropriate actions and adherence to school policies.
Behavior Probation Process
The upper school principal will meet with the parent(s) and explain the rationale and parameters of the probation
including the length of duration. This will be a formal written instrument that will be signed by the
administration, parents, and student. Student activities may be limited during the probationary time-period at the
discretion of the administration.
During the behavior probation period students are allowed 500 points maximum for one school year. Anytime the
student surpasses 500 points, or is on a trajectory toward 500 points, they may be dismissed from KCS.
Upon successful completion of probation, all restraints of the probation will be lifted.
Dismissal
A dismissal from school is reserved for egregious acts of misbehavior (zero-tolerance behaviors) or continued
violations of school standards resulting in an accumulation of (or trajectory toward) 900 points. For a list of zero-
tolerance behaviors see page 15, Level 4, Zero-Tolerance Policy.)
Dismissal Due Process:
For every 300 points a student accumulates mandatory parent meetings will be conducted to develop a formal
plan-of-action guiding the student’s behavior with the following intentions:
• 300 points A formal Behavior Contract is discussed and signed by the parent and student.
• 500 points Student is placed on Behavior Probation the following school year or dismissed if the
student is on Behavior Probation.
• 600 points The Behavior Contract is reviewed and reinforced.
• 900 points A dismissal meeting is held to cover the dismissal parameters.
School Activities Restricted During Dismissal: Students who have been dismissed should not be on campus or
participate in any school activities on or off campus.
Re-enrollment to KCS: After a minimum of one (1) calendar year, the student and their parents may apply for re-
enrollment. If accepted, a student is on Behavior Probation for the remainder of their enrollment.
Bus Transportation
Our chief concern on the school bus is the safety of each rider. If the driver is being distracted by a discipline problem,
the safety of all students may be jeopardized. For this reason, we have established the following rules:
• Students must observe the same conduct as in the classroom.
• Students must be courteous.
• Students must use appropriate language and refrain from loud talking and yelling.
• Students must keep the bus clean.
• Students should stay in their seats, facing forward, while the bus is in gear.
• Students must keep head, hands and feet inside the bus.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 15Attendance Policies
Absences
KCS does not delineate between excused and unexcused absences. If a student is physically at school (or a school-
related activity) he/she is considered present. If a student is not in attendance they are considered absent.
A student is considered absent if the student misses more than 15 minutes of class.
Absences Due to Illness: Students are not expected to be in attendance when they are ill. Students should not
return to school until they are no longer contagious including 24 hours free from fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Absence Procedure: Every effort should be made to be in attendance every day. When a child is absent, parents
must contact the High School or Middle School office to notify the school of the absence by 8:45am.
Correspondence with the school office, from a parent or guardian, is required of each student after any absence
from school.
Absence Limits:
• High School (grade 9-12): a student who is absent 10 or more times (not including school-related activities,
such as field trips, sports or music competitions, etc.) may fail the semester. This policy is applied to each
class separately.
• Middle School (grades 6-8): a student who is absent more than 20 days in a school year may not be
promoted to the next grade level.
Attendance Appeal: If the student wishes to appeal the loss of credit or the requirement to repeat a grade due to
excessive absenteeism, he or she must complete the school’s appeal process. Students should contact the Upper
School office for details on the appeal method.
Make-up Work: When students have an absence, each teacher will determine a reasonable amount of time
allowed for work to be made up for full credit. Work assigned prior to the absence and tests assigned prior to the
absence, should be fulfilled upon return. A general rule is one day of make-up time for every day a student was
absent. Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s teachers directly for missing work.
Pre-Planned Absences: (Related to parental requests regarding church or religious activities, family vacations,
etc.). In the student’s best interests, the office and teachers should be informed as soon as possible prior to the
absence. Please remember that pre-planned absences count toward the maximum of nine (9) days that a student
may miss during a semester and the exam exemption policy.
College Visits: Students who are planning a college trip will need to get administrative approval two weeks prior
to the trip and then get signed documentation of attending from the college. This will count as a school-related
activity with approval and documentation.
Tardiness
A student is tardy if he/she is not in his/her assigned area per the instructions of the teacher when the tardy bell
rings. Tardy students are a distraction to other students and cause interruption during a key part of a class lesson.
Therefore, all students are expected to be on time to school and to all classes.
Tardiness will be treated as a disciplinary matter according to the following guidelines:
• Tardy to school: 10 conduct points are assessed for each tardy. Students who are late to school must report
to the office for a pass to enter class.
• Tardy to class: 20 conduct points are assessed.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 16Hall Passes
During a secondary school class, students must have a pass from the teacher permitting the student to go to another
room, to the office, the telephone, etc. The pass should be signed by the teacher in charge when leaving and signed
by the teacher or office personnel when returning to class.
Students should only be released from a class when they have a pre-signed pass from a receiving teacher.
Field Trips/Volunteer Background Checks
Field trips are an extension of the classroom. All school rules and regulations continue during field trips. Electronics
are allowed at the discretion of the teacher on local field trips. The teacher is solely in charge while on a field trip.
Siblings are not permitted to attend field trips.
Permission slips, signed by the parent or guardian, must be turned in before a student is permitted to leave on a field
trip. Permission by phone will not be accepted.
Only parents who have been contacted to act as chaperones will accompany a class or group. Parents who plan
on attending a field trip to act as a chaperone should plan on filling out the volunteer paperwork a month prior to
the trip to allow for appropriate volunteer background checks.
• Level 1: A Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Level 1 background check is free and this check allows the
volunteer to be with the students during school hours at a school event when the students are supervised by
a Keswick teacher, KCS staff member and/or a Level 2 volunteer (i.e. helping in the classroom, attending a
field trip, attending a class party).
• Level 2: A Level 2 background check consists of a drug screening AND fingerprinting at a cost of $100 (paid
for by the volunteer). This background check is good for five years and allows the volunteer to be alone with
the students during school hours (i.e. chaperones on field trips and overnight trips and walking lower school
students to the lunchroom/art/music /playgrounds on campus)
Student Life
Dress Code
KCS sets standards for student dress that enhance the atmosphere of the school and reflect biblical standards. The
dress code boundaries are also designed to promote the safety, security, protection, and modesty of the students.
Compliance with the code is the responsibility of the parent. Enforcement of the code is the responsibility of the
faculty and staff. Parents demonstrate their partnership with the school by ensuring and supporting the compliance of
an appropriate standard of dress at all school-related activities.
• All uniform shirts, sweatshirts and t-shirts are sold at the onCampus KCS Outfitters store located in the
Business Office by the football field.
• Plaid skirts and shorts may be purchased Allen Sports Center, 6485 Seminole Boulevard, Seminole, Florida
(727) 397-0421.
• Pants, shorts, and capris may be purchased at Allen’s or the uniform sections of most department stores.
• For student and parent convenience, there is a used uniform selection at Keswick Thrift Center, 6225
Seminole Boulevard, Seminole, Florida (727) 202-6986.
General Standards for All Students (K5 – 12th grade):
• Uniform shirt colors choices: white, yellow, dark green (forest green), light blue, dark blue, or black shirt with
short or long sleeves. All shirts must have the KCS logo.
• Clothing must fit properly, be modest, neat, and clean. Other than plain t-shirts, underclothing should not be
visible. Modest dress for shorts is Bermuda, walking short length; for skirts, just above the knee.
• Plain belts (and buckles) of appropriate length are to be worn with all uniform pants and shorts.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 17• Extreme or distracting jewelry and accessories are not allowed.
• Body piercings and tattoos: Girls are only allowed two earrings of reasonable length per ear. Other body
piercings are not allowed. Boys are not permitted to have body piercings. Students should not display
tattoos.
• Physical education: Students may wear any color athletic shorts and any KCS or plain white t-shirts.
• Jackets, coats, hats, gloves, etc., must be taken off upon entering a campus building.
• Shoes: Students should only wear athletic or casual dress. No sandals, flip-flops, boots, Crocs, or open-toed
shoes of any style. Socks should be worn at all times.
• For added warmth, students may only wear KCS sweatshirts. No sweaters or other outer garments are
allowed in the building or classrooms. Hoods on hoodies must be down. Plain tops may be worn under the
uniform.
• When attending after-school events (on or off campus) when school uniform dress is not required, students
should wear modest attire that is appropriate for the event.
Uniform Standards Girls (grades 6-12)
• Keswick plaid or a uniform solid navy or khaki skirt. Skirt lengths are to be just above the knee. Final
determination of “modest” is the sole discretion of the administration.
• Keswick plaid, navy or khaki skort, shorts, capris or slacks may also be worn. Length for shorts is Bermuda,
walking short length; shorts may NOT be tight-fitting.
• Pants: Uniform-style navy or khaki: No outside pockets; a “uniform-style” dress slack is NOT tight-fitting.
• A plain long or short-sleeved shirt or top, worn under the uniform shirt, must remain tucked in at all times.
• Tights, hose, and leggings, if worn, should be solid navy, forest green, black, or white. Slacks, warm-up pants,
etc., are not to be worn under skirts.
• Distracting hairstyles and colors are not allowed.
• Girls may leave their uniform shirts un-tucked.
Uniform Standards Boys (grades 6-12)
• Boys are to be clean-shaven. Sideburns are to be neatly trimmed and no longer than the bottom of the ear.
• Pants or shorts: Uniform-style navy or khaki. No outside pockets or cargo pants.
• Hair style: out of the eyes, should not cover the entire collar or ear. Hair should not have unnatural colored
styles, lines, letters, numbers, or designs. No extreme styles will be allowed.
• Shirts are to remain tucked in throughout the school day. Belts must be worn.
Dress Down Day Policy
Every Friday is a dress down day for all Upper School students (6th -12th grade)
• Jeans in good repair (no rips, frays, holes, fading, etc.) or uniform shorts may be worn.
• Students may wear a Keswick uniform shirt or an approved KCS t-shirt.
• Students must wear socks and appropriate shoes.
• Official club or designated sports team t-shirts are permitted.
• If a student decides not to participate in the dress down day, he/she would be expected to be in regular
uniform dress.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
If a student is not dressed according to the above guidelines, the student may not be permitted to attend class until
he/she complies with the code. The school office will have dress-code shirts that may be borrowed or the student
may call home and wait in the office until the appropriate dress-code clothing is delivered. Disciplinary points will be
assigned and the student’s parents will be notified.
Student Health
Physical Examinations
All new students must present a current physical examination, complete with the proper
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 18immunizations, as required in Pinellas County. We will accept the proper health forms from the student’s previous
school (if they are current).
A statement concerning the students’ physical fitness for school, a record of immunization, and a statement
regarding any currently known or suspected potentially infectious diseases must be filed with the school. Students
entering 7th grade are encouraged to have a scoliosis screening when they go for their Hepatitis B shots – see
below. Re-enrolling students must be prepared to update their medical records to reflect any health status
changes considering the above requirements.
Immunizations
Parents are expected to keep their children’s immunizations up to date, and to have the current immunization
records sent to the school. Any student entering 7th grade must have Tdap Booster shot, or have a permanent
medical exemption filled out by a pediatrician, and have a scoliosis exam completed by a qualified medical
practitioner.
Florida Department of Health requires the following immunizations for all children before entering school:
Kindergarten and Grades 1-6
• 4 or 5 DTPs (final dose must be given after 4th birthday)
• 3, 4 or 5 Polio (final dose after 4th birthday)
• 2 MMRs
• 3 Hepatitis B
• 2 Varicella
Grades 7-12
• 4 or 5 DTPs (final dose must be given after 4th birthday)
• 3, 4 or 5 Polio (final dose after 4th birthday)
• 2 MMRs
• 3 Hepatitis B
• 1 Tdap
• 2 Varicella (chicken pox) (Grade 8)
• 1 Varicella (chicken pox) (Grades 9-12) If your child has had this disease, the date and year must be
documented on the Florida Immunization Certificate form 680 by the Doctor.
The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County is granted the authority to exclude unvaccinated students
under Section 1003.22, F.S., which states: “(9) The presence of any of the communicable diseases for which
immunization is required by the Department of Health in a Florida public or private school shall permit the county
health department director or administrator or the State Health Officer to declare a communicable disease
emergency. The declaration of such emergency shall mandate that all students in attendance in the school who
are not in compliance with the provisions of this section be identified by the district school board or by the
governing authority of the private school; and the school health and immunization records of such children shall
be made available to the county health department director or administrator. Those children identified as not
being immunized against the disease for which the emergency has been declared shall be temporarily excluded
from school by the district school board, or the governing authority of the private school, until specified by the
county health department director or administrator.”
Health Condition Referrals
Any student suspected of having a communicable disease or infestation (e.g. lice) shall be referred immediately to
his/her parent or guardian for care by their physician or local Health Department. The student is not to return to
school until he/she is non-infectious and/or non-infested. If a student returns to school with symptoms or signs of
infection or infestation, the administration may insist on the student being referred to the local Health
Department for evaluation.
2018-2019 Upper School Student Handbook Page 19You can also read
