2025-2026
PARENT / STUDENT HANDBOOK
San Francisco Christian School
A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church
25 Whittier Street
San Francisco, CA 94112
T: 415-586-1117
F: 415-841-0833
SAT / ACT School Code # 053-038
www.sfchristianschool.org
office@sfchristianschool.org
www.app.sycamoreeducation.com
Sycamore School ID – 1363
Office Hours 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Table of Contents:
San Francisco Christian School 1
A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church 1
History of San Francisco Christian School 5
Student Goals: The HEART of SFCS 9
PARENT-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION 11
Parent-Teacher Fellowships (PTF) 12
FINANCIAL POLICIES (LOCAL STUDENTS ONLY) 13
Late Enrollment Finance Policy 13
FINANCIAL POLICIES (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ONLY) 14
Elementary Academic Absence Policy 15
MS/HS Academic Absence Policy 15
Staff Offices, Workspaces, and Equipment 18
Middle and High School Lunch 24
General Dress Code Guidelines 25
Dress Guidelines for Non-Uniform Days 26
Dress Guidelines for Athletic Games 26
Dress Guidelines for Formal and Semi-Formal Occasions 26
Physical Education Dress Code 27
Medication Administration Policy (per CA Education Code) 27
Before and After School Care 28
General Guidelines for Use of School Computers and Other Technology: 30
Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement 31
Hacking and Illegal Activities 31
Inappropriate Language and Material 32
Consequences for violating any of the above guidelines: 33
Middle School and High School Homework 34
Kindergarten Beginnings and Kindergarten Program 36
Community Service Requirements 37
Valedictorian – Salutatorian Requirements 37
Report Cards and Progress Reports 37
Student Drop Off Procedures 39
Elementary Student Departure 40
Middle and High School Student Departure 40
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 41
Welcome to San Francisco Christian School. The following guidelines are intended to give direction and understanding of our general goals and standards. Not all operational policies and procedures are included within this manual. The administration reserves the right to define certain rules relating to the daily school operation and student conduct as individual needs and situations arise.
It is the responsibility of each parent and student to read and understand the handbook. Complete attention and cooperation to the described policies are expected.
In 1971, Mr. Jack McBirney returned to San Francisco after serving as a missionary to Newfoundland, Canada. His children had to attend a public school and because of obstacles they met, he was burdened about the lack of Christian education in the city of San Francisco. With a vision to see, a faith to believe, and courage to do, he founded San Francisco Christian School. It has been a means of reaching many nationalities with the Word of God, and of introducing them to Jesus Christ and His love for them.
San Francisco Christian School first opened its doors in September of 1971. The Board realized the need for this school, prayed for ninety students, and on the first day of school ninety students were enrolled! The school began with kindergarten through tenth grades on Dorland Street at the educational building of First Covenant Church. The junior-senior high school was moved into the facilities of Calvary Baptist Church in the fall of 1972 when the eleventh and twelfth grades were added. The first graduating class of San Francisco Christian School was the class of 1973.
Attendance continued to increase each year thereafter. This increase necessitated the construction of our school building on Whittier Street in 1976, which was used by the junior-senior high school. The school continued to grow, and in 1982, the junior-senior high school moved to the Serramonte Del Rey campus, and the elementary school moved to the Whittier Street building. In the mid-1980’s San Francisco Christian School established two different elementary extension campuses, one at Sunset Baptist Church and one at the Serramonte Del Rey campus.
In 1984, San Francisco Christian School was incorporated into the ministry of Calvary Baptist Church. In the fall of 1989, the junior-senior high school was moved to the facilities of the Calvary Baptist Church.
Calvary Baptist Church has a heart for missions and world evangelism. One of the ways the ministry is reaching to the uttermost parts of the world is through the enrollment of “non-immigrant foreign students.” In the fall of 1996, San Francisco Christian School was approved by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service to issue “I-20” forms allowing foreign students to attend school. As we reach and train these students for Jesus Christ, they can return to their home countries and families with the Gospel.
We have much for which to praise the Lord. We thank God for the many teachers, administrators, and parents whom the Lord has used to make this ministry possible. We are thankful for the many graduates who have gone on to serve the Lord in various ministries and careers.
As a ministry of Calvary Baptist Church, San Francisco Christian School, grounded in the Truth of the Bible, equips students to embrace the Gospel, engage a Biblical worldview education, and enact a Christ-centered life.
San Francisco Christian School prepares students to be representatives of the Gospel in their unique callings, empowering them to impact San Francisco and the world for Christ.
SFCS is dedicated to a Christian philosophy of education. Christian education must be administered in a spiritual atmosphere and must recognize God as the supreme source of all knowledge and wisdom.
Education at San Francisco Christian School is based on the Christian traditional approach in contrast to humanistic, progressive systems of education. We believe that education is to be grounded in the person and character of God as revealed in His Word through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Christian education is God-centered rather than man-centered. We believe the Christian traditional approach provides students with the best possible programs and methods of study.
We believe that the content of Christian education must be in harmony with “whatsoever things are true...honest...just...pure…lovely...[and] of good report....” (Philippians 4:8). We believe that classroom methods should be teacher directed (Deuteronomy 6:7), with the student acquiring knowledge through studying (II Timothy 2:15), researching (John 5:39), reasoning (Acts 24:25), relating (Luke 24:27), and recording (III John 12).
San Francisco Christian School is operated as a ministry of Calvary Baptist Church in San Francisco, California. The school was founded to provide a Christian alternative to the humanistic education offered in other private and public schools. All subjects are taught from a biblical worldview encouraging a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a life led by the Holy Spirit, and obedience and surrender to the Word and will of God. SFCS stresses wholesome Christian living, personal salvation through Jesus Christ, obedience to the Word and will of God, and using our talents and gifts for the glory of God.
The goal of Christian education is to develop, within the framework of the student’s God-given personality, potential, and abilities, individuals who are articulate, knowledgeable, and of God-honoring character.
We seek to impart to each student Christian character development, communicative language skills, and subject matter in harmony with God’s Truth in the various academic disciplines.
The HEART of SFCS is a comprehensive description of the intention to address each student holistically. Our desire is to educate the mind through strong academics, but our belief is that addressing the mind alone is insufficient. Fundamentally as God’s creation each individual must rightly understand how to relate both internally and externally to his or her circumstances.
Luke 2:52 states that Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man. SFCS seeks to follow this pattern of health, growth, and development by providing an environment and an opportunity for each student to develop healthy bodies, eager minds, appropriate emotions, right relations, and a transformed life.
Healthy Body - A recognition that the body, the temple of the Holy Spirit, is used for the glory of God in life.
An SFCS student will:
Eager Mind - The ability and willingness to receive, understand, and apply instruction develop God-given potential for life.
An SFCS student will:
Appropriate Emotions - The awareness that expression of godly emotions reveals a Spirit-filled life.
An SFCS student will:
Relational Focus - The demonstration of God's love for others is an expression of life in Christ.
An SFCS student will:
Transformed Life - The understanding of the one true God and a relationship with Him is the foundation of life.
An SFCS student will:
Admission to San Francisco Christian School is open to any young person who meets the entrance requirements. San Francisco Christian School does not discriminate based on race, color, national and ethnic origin in its educational policies, admission policies, athletics, or other school-administered programs.
Present students may re-enroll for the following year beginning in December of the current year. Re-enrollment is contingent upon acceptable student grades, achievement and ability test scores, attendance, behavior, parental support, and a current financial balance. Final decisions regarding re-enrollment will be made after all data has been received and evaluated.
All parents must submit the Online Re-enrollment Form via Sycamore.
When the Admissions Office has verified receipt of all necessary documents, a student interview with the head of school will be held. The parents/guardians and the child are expected to attend the interview.
Following the interview, a decision will be made concerning the acceptance of the student.
Upon acceptance of the student, the following steps are required during online enrollment:
SFCS is in session from August to May and operates on a 4-quarter schedule. The quarters are approximately 9 weeks long. Should a student enroll after the school year has begun, the start date will depend on the quarter.
For credit-earning courses (primarily high school courses), students who enroll after quarter one will earn 2.5 credits per quarter.
* There may be exceptions made to this policy on a case-by-case basis.
Sycamore Education (sycamoreeducation.com) is a web-based school communication and data service. San Francisco Christian School expects parents/guardians and students to use this service. As a parent/guardians or student, Sycamore provides the opportunity to:
Login and password information is available through the school office.
Parent - Teacher Conferences are held twice during the year. At the end of first quarter and third quarter, parents/guardians are asked to pick up their child’s report card during this time. In addition, parents/guardians will have opportunity to meet with the administration and meet their child’s teacher for an individual conference.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to request conferences at any time they think it is necessary. If at any time there is a question or problem with a teacher, seek to solve the problem with the teacher first. If the issue cannot be resolved, contact the Administrator.
The purpose of the PTF is to work together to provide special events that foster academic, social, and spiritual growth within the SFCS student body; recognize and support the teaching and support staff at SFCS for their contributions to the student body; fund scholarships, supplies, and enrichment programs; and sponsor activities that help connect the families and students to the mission of Jesus in the community.
SFCS is blessed to have a group of dedicated parents who unselfishly volunteer their time to assist students and teachers. Our parents are an invaluable resource as they help with fundraising, field trips, assisting teachers, planning and organizing activities, and communicating with alumni. All SFCS parents are automatically members of the PTF and are encouraged to participate by attending meetings and volunteering as they are able.
Parents are welcome to visit. Parents are to plan visits with the administration twenty-four hours prior to their visit. Parents and visitors coming to the school, for any reason, are to check in with the school office first to sign-in and receive a visitor's pass and sign-out when leaving campus. Please do not go directly to any part of the campus or student locations prior to checking in at the school office. Lunches, homework, books, etc. may be left in the office to be delivered. Please follow these procedures in order to maintain school security and student safety. SFCS will follow laws issued by the state regarding visiting adults on campus.
The primary purpose of student visitors is for prospective students to be introduced to the people and programs of SFCS. Permission for a student to visit must be requested from the administration at the school office at least twenty-four hours prior to the visit. Visiting students are expected to follow all the behavioral guidelines of the school. Visiting students should check in at the school office where they will receive a visitor pass and instructions for the day. No student visits are allowed the first two weeks or the last two weeks of any semester.
Blackbaud Tuition Management receives the tuition and fee payments for parents and is required for all families who choose a payment plan (parents may opt out of Blackbaud by paying in full by June 30. Payment plans are chosen through Blackbaud during the online enrollment process. A 12-month payment plan (June to May) is available.
Parents choose one of four possible due dates for payment (the 1st, 5th, 15th, and 20th of the month). Tuition payments are due on that day each month. Payments sent by mail must be received by Blackbaud by the due date. Any payment that is not received by Blackbaud by the due date is considered late and will receive a late fee of $40.00.
Tuition payments become delinquent five days after the due date. In this event, Blackbaud will contact the family via mail, telephone, or e-mail. If a delinquent account is not paid or arrangements for payment are not made with the Finance Office, a student may not be allowed to return to school until the account is current. Delinquent accounts may be turned over to a collection agency. Students will not be allowed to re-enroll for the following year unless accounts are current.
Late enrollment is defined as a student who enrolls after 20 days of school. Through day 20, families will pay full tuition.
School is in session from August to May, approximately 175 school days. Should a student enroll after the school year has begun, families will be billed on proration according to the number of days remaining in the school year [(Total Tuition - $600 / 175) * (# of days remaining) + $600]. For example, if the yearly tuition is $12,000 and the student enrolls after 30 days have elapsed, the family will be billed for the remaining 145 school days {[($12,000 - $600) / 175)] * (145) + $600]}, totaling $10,045.30. This amount can be split into monthly payments from September – May (9 months) of $1,116.14.
A fee of $30.00 in addition to any late fees will be applied to an account for any failed auto-debit and failed check payments. This fee may accompany additional bank-imposed fees.
Withdrawals from school must be made through the Admissions Office by submitting a completed withdrawal form by the parent or guardian. Tuition is payable through the month of withdrawal even if a student attends a partial month. Paid Tuition, Application Fee, and Enrollment or Re-enrollment Deposit are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Tuition payments are received via any form of payment. This includes cash, check, credit card, or wire transfer. New students may contact the Admissions Office for payment instructions. Current students may contact the Finance Office for payment instructions.
Tuition can be paid in full by the due date detailed in the International Student Admission Procedures document or on the International Admissions page on the SFCS website. Families who pay their tuition in full by the due date will save $3,000 on the annual tuition as compared to families who pay the tuition by semester.
If an account is not paid or arrangements for payment are not made with the Finance Office, a student may not be allowed to return to school until the account is current.
Delinquent accounts may be turned over to a collection agency. Students may not be allowed to re-enroll for the following year unless accounts are current.
Withdrawals from school must be made through the Admissions Office. It is understood that the tuition is due and payable until the Admissions Office has approved the withdrawal based on the submission of a complete SFCS Withdrawal Form by the parent/guardian.
Regarding student withdrawal or dismissal, all tuition and fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. This includes the following:
* Students who fail their student visa interview twice may send their rejection letters to admissions@sfchristianschool.org to receive a $2,000 refund of their $2,500 Enrollment Deposit.
Regular attendance of all students is expected. In case of an absence or tardy, the parent must contact the school office. All absences will be considered unexcused until notification has been received from the parent. The parent/guardian’s notice should be submitted within forty-eight hours of the absence or tardy. Excused absences will be granted according to the following general guidelines:
Students are learning much more from their school experience than textbook information. They are learning many “life” lessons and developing habits that will help them as they continue their education. Good attendance is essential to educational progress.
The administration has designed the following attendance policies to teach and reinforce Christian values such as self-discipline, punctuality, consistency, and consideration for others. All absences accumulate to impact learning. Students with excessive absences may be retained in their grade for the following year.
5th absence – parents are notified in writing
9th absence – parents are given a second notification in writing
12th absence – parents will conference with the principal and an attendance contract will be required.
All future absences and any violation of the attendance contract may result in retention or dismissal.
When a student has an excused absence, he will have one day for every day absent to complete the work for full credit. Thereafter, the student will lose 10% per assignment for every day late. It is the student’s responsibility to find out what assignments were missed during his absence and to make arrangements with teachers to make-up tests and quizzes.
A student who is absent twelve or more times per semester will fail the class for the semester. Students who have twelve absences in any class are placed on Academic Probation. This policy applies to any absences, excused or unexcused.
Students must be in attendance for four periods to be able to participate in extracurricular activities on that specific day. Any student who misses more than 24 days of school in the course of one school year will be retained in their grade for the following year.
A student is considered tardy if he is not in his seat when it is time for class to begin. Unexcused tardiness is a discipline matter which receives infractions and may result in detentions or suspension. The parents of any student habitually tardy may be scheduled to have a conference with the principal. Students who are tardy more than 15 minutes to class will be counted absent for that class.
We have attempted to provide ample holidays within the school calendar and request that you plan vacations during these times. Exceptions require a written request to be submitted at least one month in advance for approval to be considered. Vacation absences will only be approved in exceptional cases, such as the parent’s work schedule doesn’t allow for vacations during school holidays or vacation times. Please remember that absences for any reason affect your child’s academic progress and the culture of the classroom.
A student anticipating an absence for any reason (trip, etc.) should notify the school office so that teachers may be informed, and work may be assigned. Parents and students can use Sycamore to keep up with work that is missed during the absence. Students are to complete and submit all assignments missed during their absence.
Attendance at SFCS is a privilege and not a right. Any student who does not conform to the standards or spirit of this institution may forfeit his privilege to attend. The administration of SFCS reserves the right to discipline or expel any student who, in the opinion of the administration, does not fit into the spirit of the school, regardless of whether or not he conforms to the specific rules and regulations of the school.
Human Dignity (Harassment)
San Francisco Christian School intends to provide an environment that ensures respect and safety for all. We expect all persons to treat each other with dignity because they are created in God’s image. Students should realize that their commitment to living a life of integrity and following the standards set forth in God’s Word (the Bible) is ongoing, not limited to the school day. San Francisco Christian School does not condone or allow harassment of others by teachers, administrators, support staff, students, or other persons either at school or school events. Any person who believes he/she has been subjected to harassment should report it immediately to an appropriate faculty member, staff, or administrator. Each report will be investigated appropriately. Inappropriate conduct is unacceptable whether intentional or unintentional. Harassing behavior is not limited to but includes the following:
The following articles are not permitted in school:
Students are not to enter the staff offices or the staff workroom. Students are not permitted to use office equipment including cutting boards, copiers, laminator, etc. unless they are in the internship program.
Parents/guardians may leave messages for their child(ren) by calling the school office. Students may request to have their parent/guardian contacted by the office staff in the event of an emergency.
Any student possessing a valid California driver’s license and insurance may drive to school. However, the following guidelines must be followed:
The lockers are the property of SFCS and are provided as a convenience to the students. The school is not responsible for any lost or stolen items; therefore, students should keep all personal items securely locked in lockers. Any student who defaces or misuses his locker will have this convenience taken away from him.
Please note the following rules regarding lockers:
At San Francisco Christian School, we are committed to observing Biblical principles with regard to giving a good report. Scripture warns us of the perils of an unrestrained tongue and criticism against fellow Christians (James 3:1-18).
Jesus sets forth the principles of communication (The Matthew 18 Principle), “If your brother sins against you go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two brothers along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” (Matthew 18:15-16)
Everyone in the SFCS Community is encouraged to observe these Biblical principles. In practice, this entails the following lines of communication whenever you have questions, concerns or criticism to share. Discussions of a critical nature with anyone other than the person(s) involved is against the Word of God. This must not occur among the school community. Rather, we will follow the instructions of Jesus. In practice, this means that discussions with anyone other than the person(s) involved regarding students, parents, teachers, staff, administrators, Board members or the school shall be a good report. Any discussion involving questions, concerns or criticism must be shared directly with the person involved as follows:
1. Conflict between students: A student must communicate first with the other student(s) to discuss concerns and resolve issues. Whenever such concerns or issues are not satisfactorily resolved between the students, the students must communicate that information to a teacher who will assist in further discussions and resolution of the matter. Matthew 18:16 will be applied.
2. Conflict between student and teacher: A student must communicate first with the teacher to discuss concerns and resolve issues. Whenever such concerns or issues are not satisfactorily resolved between the student and teacher, the teacher and student must communicate that information to the principal who will assist in further discussions and resolution of the matter. Matthew 18:16 will be applied.
3. Conflict between parent and teacher: A parent must communicate first with the teacher to discuss concerns and resolve issues. Whenever such concerns or issues are not satisfactorily resolved between the parent and teacher, the teacher and parent must communicate that information to the principal who will assist in further discussions and resolution of the matter. Thereafter, if the issue or concern is not satisfactorily resolved, the parties may contact the Head of School, and finally the Pastor/Superintendent. However, any party who desires to contact the Head of School or Pastor must first inform the principal and other parties involved of such contact and its nature. Matthew 18:16 will be applied.
4. Conflict between staff members: Teachers are directly responsible to the principal. Office staff are directly responsible to the office manager. The principal and office manager are directly responsible to the Head of School. The Head of School is directly responsible to the Pastor/Superintendent. Should conflict arise and Matthew 18:15 was applied (one employee confronting another employee), the employees and their supervisor will first meet to discuss and seek resolution of any concerns or issues. Thereafter, if the issue or concern is not satisfactorily resolved, the employee may contact the Head of School, and finally the Pastor/Superintendent. However, any employee who desires to contact the Head of School or Pastor must first inform their supervisor and other parties involved of such contact and its nature. Matthew 18:16 will be applied.
Teachers will inform the parents of the specific classroom discipline plan at the beginning of each school year.
When disobedience occurs, the teacher will inform the students of the disobedience and its consequences. Penalties increase if disobedience continues. Teachers will communicate with parents about their child’s behavior as necessary.
SFCS uses infractions for violations of school policies. Accumulated infractions result in disciplinary action. Violations are considered more serious if they are repetitive. Following is a partial list of infractions:
Dress code violation 1 infraction
Eating or drinking in non-designated areas 1 infraction
Gum Chewing 1 infraction
Disruptive talking in class 1 infraction
Unexcused tardy 1 infraction
Unprepared for class 1 infraction
Disrupting class 2 infractions
Inappropriate Language 2 infractions
Deceit / Cheating 4 infractions
Destruction of property 4 infractions
Disobedience 4 infractions
Disrespect 4 infractions
Fighting 4 infractions
Technology Major Offense Violation 4 infractions
Unauthorized use of cell phone 4 infractions
Unexcused absence 4 infractions
For every four infractions a student accumulates, he must serve a detention. Detentions will be served from 3:20 - 3:55 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A “Detention Letter”, to be signed by a parent/guardian, will be sent home and posted on the family's Sycamore site at least twenty-four hours in advance of the detention. If a student receives a detention, he must serve or re-schedule the detention with the discipline dean before he may attend a practice, a game, or an extra-curricular activity. School dress is required of any student serving a detention. A detention may be rescheduled at the written request of a parent. Any detention not served when scheduled will result in an additional detention (no additional infractions).
Infractions are accumulated for an entire semester. The following list indicates the penalties associated with the accumulation of infractions:
If a student accumulates five or more detentions, he will be placed on Disciplinary Probation and will not be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activities such as plays, music, Student Council, athletics, or other student privileges. A student may also be placed on Disciplinary Probation when he repeatedly or flagrantly ignores, disobeys, or flaunts school regulations or teacher instructions. If a student fails to respond to this action, suspension or expulsion may follow. Disciplinary Probation extends to the end of the semester, at which time the student's record is reviewed by the administration.
A student may be suspended from school when other means of discipline fail or when further disciplinary action is forthcoming.
Students may be expelled from SFCS at any time when their actions or attitudes are disruptive to the school atmosphere or are in violation of biblical standards and the spirit or guidelines of SFCS. Expulsion is mandatory for certain offenses, but in most instances, it is made necessary by the repeated violation of school policy. Any student that is expelled may not return to SFCS as a student for one entire semester. Parents are encouraged to monitor their child's infractions by viewing the discipline record that is posted on their family's Sycamore site.
Hot lunches are available for students on a daily basis. A monthly menu is published on Sycamore. Payment for hot lunch is made through Sycamore or to the business office. Accepted forms of hot lunch payment include cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The funds are credited to the student's hot lunch account on Sycamore. When a student orders and receives hot lunch, the price of the lunch is debited from the student's hot lunch account. Parents are responsible to keep a positive balance in their child’s lunch account. Parents may put money on their hot lunch account through Sycamore or they may contact the Finance Office to pay for lunches with cash, checks, debit cards, or credit cards (additional fees apply for use of debit/credit cards). Students with a negative balance will not be allowed to purchase lunches. In situations where parents are unable to immediately put money on their lunch account, the child will be provided food to eat for that day.
All hot lunches must be ordered through Sycamore prior to Monday morning. No orders will be accepted Monday-Friday for the current week. Parents are welcome to order hot lunch for the month once the cycle is open.
Elementary students eat in their assigned areas. Students should stay in their seats and eat their lunches quietly. Students are to clean up after themselves. No students are allowed to leave school to get a lunch, nor should they expect the office to get them a lunch. Students who have not purchased their lunch, are expected to arrive at school with their lunch.
Students may eat their lunch in the gym or may be given permission to eat at the picnic tables on the back porch.
The following general guidelines apply to lunchtime:
When a senior is given the opportunity to leave campus for lunch, the following procedures must be followed:
Class parties are held periodically throughout the year. Each teacher will contact the students and parents to inform them of the date, activities, location and the food items that are needed for each party.
No private parties will be announced by a teacher or a student at school. No social activities may be announced at school unless they are school-sponsored.
Arrangement for birthday treats is to be done through the classroom teacher.
We do not allow impersonation or presentation of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, or the celebration of Halloween.
San Francisco Christian School continually and intentionally selects clothing for the student dress code that reflects the HEART of SFCS. The school uniform, athletic attire, and special activity dress days are all thoughtfully planned to help students effectively learn, embrace unity, and build school spirit.
SFCS monitors uniforms, hairstyles, clothing accessories and general appearance to ensure the best learning environment. Students may receive warnings, infractions, or in severe cases, be sent home to correct dress code violations. SFCS depends upon parents to assist their child to appropriately dress within the stated guidelines and policies. Students are to arrive and depart from school in school uniforms. Exceptions for this may be made for P.E. students that have P.E. class first hour, have practice or leave campus immediately after school dismissal.
Girls:
Boys:
Occasionally SFCS sponsors a non-uniform school day. Students do not have to wear uniforms to school that day if they are participating in the theme of the day. Students who choose not to participate in the theme must be dressed in the school uniform.
When choosing attire for a non-uniform school day, clothing should be loose fitting and not attract inappropriate attention. Skirts (if worn) should be the same length of the school uniform. Examples of inappropriate or unacceptable items include lounge/leisure pants, sweat pants (including soccer pants), jeans or slacks with holes, and logos or slogans that are contrary to Christian values.
Girls attending any athletic contest at which SFCS is represented may wear neat, loose fitting, modest pants, jeans or warm-ups.
Boys attending any athletic contest at which SFCS is represented may wear neat jeans or warm-ups.
Guests for formal occasions should follow the expectations and dress policy of SFCS in demeanor and appearance. A special event permission form needs to be filled out and submitted to the school office prior to attending the event.
The P.E. uniform may be purchased through Simply Uniforms P.E. uniforms must be purchased by the end of the first week of school.
The dress code for sixth through twelfth grade P.E. classes consists of the following items:
This sample checklist provides local educational agencies with helpful information that may be given to parents and guardians when children need to take medication before school or take medication at school.
SFCS is offering supervised care for your child from 6:55 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The cost per hour or any portion thereof is $5 per child which is billed to your Sycamore account. Payment for before and after school care is made through Sycamore or to the business office. Accepted forms of payment include cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The funds are credited to the student's extended care account on Sycamore.
If your kindergarten – 5th grade child needs additional after-school care we recommend connecting with Our Kids First (OKF) located at the San Francisco Christian Center. OKF is located at 5845 Mission St. and can be reached at 415-585-1104. OKF will pick up students from SFCS after school dismisses.
Lost and found articles may be claimed from the office before school, during lunch, or after school. Unclaimed items will be donated at the end of each quarter.
Private tutoring and private instrument lessons may be available to students on a limited basis. Please check with the school office regarding these opportunities and additional costs.
SFCS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges as well as the Association of Christian School Internationals.
Academic grading is based on a percentage of 100%.
A+ 97–100
A 93–96
A- 90-92
B+ 87-89
B 83-86
B- 80-82
C+ 77-79
C 73-76
C- 70-72
D+ 67-69
D 63-66
D- 60-62
F 00-59
All students are expected to be in school on exam days unless ill or exempted from the exam.
Any senior who earns an “A” average of 93% or above may be exempt from the final examination in that course.
Academic Warning/Probation
Elementary and secondary students will be placed on Academic Warning for the next grading period when at the end of a nine week grading period they have earned two D’s, one or more F’s, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the quarter grading periods.
Elementary and secondary students will be placed on Academic Probation for the next grading period when at the end of the nine week Academic Warning period they’ve continued to earn two D’s, one or more F’s, or a GPA that falls under a 2.0 at the quarter grading periods. Any student with two or more F’s is automatically placed on Academic Probation.
Students on Academic Probation may not participate in athletics or co-curricular activities.
After being placed on Academic Probation for two consecutive quarters, a final decision as to whether a student will be allowed to continue as an SFCS student will be made on a case-by-case basis.
SFCS uses textbooks from a variety of publishers and all teachers emphasizes a Biblical worldview. San Francisco Christian School places a strong emphasis on the Bible and the spiritual welfare of the student. Each student has Bible class. Chapel services are held regularly.
Several enrichment programs are available to the students. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade (may include computers, art, music, labs, and Spanish). They also have daily park and gym times. Middle school and high school students can choose from several electives that allow students to focus on areas of interest and ability.
SFCS does not necessarily endorse all the contents of every textbook or media source used in the school curriculum. It is understood that to meet certain academic standards, SFCS may use materials of various fields of research and content.
Print textbooks are supplied to the student by the school. Textbooks are loaned to the student for the school year; those textbooks are to be covered by the student. Textbooks are not to be mutilated, defaced or marred in any way; students will be billed at the end of the year for any damage, abuse, or unusual wear to loaned textbooks. Students will be billed for the replacement price for lost textbooks or workbooks that are loaned to the student.
SFCS has chosen to use the English Standard Version of the Bible for the purpose of continuity and readability. Students are to use this version for all school-related work. Each student in second grade and all new elementary students will receive a Bible at no additional cost. Any new students in 3rd through 12th grades are provided with a Bible which is for use in Bible and other courses.
Each student in the middle and high school is given a Microsoft 365 account under the sfchristianschool.org domain. This account is restricted and controlled by school personnel.
Each student in the middle and high school is given their own Sycamore account to track grades, check on homework, communicate with teacher, etc. Students are expected to regularly check this account for updates and important information.
San Francisco Christian School is committed to teaching the effective and responsible use of technology. Technology is considered, but not limited to, computers, tablets, audio/visual devices, gaming devices, phones, and other wired/wireless electronic devices. The following policies are enforceable for both school owned devices and personal devices. SFCS makes every effort to provide a safe environment for learning with technology. Parents are encouraged to discuss and monitor the responsible use of technology and Internet safety with their child(ren).
SFCS Cell Phone Policy
At San Francisco Christian School, we are committed to cultivating a learning environment where students remain focused on their studies, spiritual growth, and Christ-centered relationships. In order to minimize distractions and encourage intentional community, the following cell phone policy will be in effect:
Cell Phone Use Guidelines:
Violations of This Policy:
Social Media
Social media has many benefits, but when social media postings violate the law, school policies, and/or create a disruption to the school community and/or specific individuals, San Francisco Christian School may have an obligation to respond and take appropriate action, including but not limited to investigation and discipline.
It is important for parents and students to understand that:
General Guidelines for Use of School Computers and Other Technology:
• All use of school technology is a privilege and not a right. SFCS reserves the right to restrict any individual from technology use.
• All school technology systems, all information stored on them, and all work performed on them, are governed by these school policies and are subject to school supervision and inspection.
• The school may monitor, access, retrieve, read and disclose all files, data, and messages stored on its system.
• The school technology equipment must be used for educational purposes unless directed by the teacher.
• Students must notify the teacher immediately if the technology equipment is not working properly.
• Students must report all objectionable material to the teacher.
Use of School’s Computer
1. Some students are assigned to an individual computer.
2. Students may not install, download, or modify any software, files, or system settings without teacher permission.
3. Students may not move, repair, or modify any computer or attached device without teacher permission.
4. Students must report all software or hardware issues immediately to the teacher.
Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement
1. Students must properly cite all sources obtained for teacher and student work.
2. Students must not violate license agreements or copy protected media.
Hacking and Illegal Activities
1. Students must not attempt to circumvent the computer’s or network’s security system by going beyond student authorized access. This includes using hotspots or other access points.
2. Students must not attempt to log in through another person’s account or access another student’s files.
3. Students must not make deliberate attempts to disrupt a computer or network by spreading computer viruses, trojans, worms, or by any other means.
4. Students must not use the Internet to engage in any other illegal activity (e.g. cyber-bullying, gambling, crime, pornography, drug sale, etc.)
Personal Safety
1. Students must not give out their personal username and password.
2. Students must not post personal contact information (e.g. name, address, phone number, etc.) about themselves or other people.
3. Students must not agree to meet with someone they have met online without their parent’s permission.
4. Students must promptly disclose to their teacher any message they receive that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable.
Network
1. Students are responsible for their individual account and should take reasonable precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account.
2. Students must immediately notify a teacher if they have identified a possible security problem.
3. Students must avoid inadvertently spreading computer viruses or knowingly putting a computer at risk by sending, opening, or running from an untrusted source.
Printing
1. Students are encouraged to do all printing outside of the school. Students requiring documents to be printed must go through a teacher. The teacher will send the document to the school office copier where the student will pick up the printed document and pay $.25 per page (front and back is considered two pages).
File Storage
1. Files saved to the computer’s local hard drive will be erased upon shut down.
2. Students are encouraged to utilize personal flash drives or Internet-based storage drives for storing personal data.
Internet Usage
1. Students may use the Internet ONLY under direct teacher supervision.
2. Students may use the Internet to access or search for information to fulfill classroom assignments.
3. Students may not deliberately visit a site known for unacceptable material or any material that is not in support of educational objectives.
Respect of Privacy
1. Students may not re-post a message that was sent to them privately without permission of the person sending the message.
2. Students may not use a photograph or video of any person without express permission of that person.
3. Students may not post knowingly or recklessly any false or private information about a person or organization.
Inappropriate Language and Material
1. Students may not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, racist, threatening or disrespectful language.
2. Students may not harass, bully, offend, embarrass, threaten, annoy, or deceive another person.
3. Students may not engage in any defamatory, inaccurate, violent, profane, discriminatory or sexually-oriented material about a person or organization.
4. Students may not transmit lewd or revealing pictures of yourself or any other person.
Limitation of Liability
1. The school makes no guarantee that the functions or the services provided must be error-free or without defect.
2. The school will not be responsible for any damage students may suffer due to loss of data or interruptions of service.
3. The school will not be responsible for any financial obligations arising through the unauthorized use of the network.
4. Student’s parents/guardians will be held financially responsible for any harm to the technology equipment due to intentional misuse or abuse.
Consequences for violating any of the above guidelines:
1. Temporary or permanent loss of electronic access.
2. Disciplinary actions, including but not limited to suspension or expulsion, at the administration’s discretion.
3. Confiscation of the electronic device.
4. Reimbursement for any repair costs.
5. Involvement of law enforcement agencies as needed or required by law.
School Media
Homework is a necessary part of each child’s education. It is expected that parents will ensure that homework is completed. Students with excused absences are responsible to get their homework assignments from their teachers or SFCS’s SycamoreEducation.com website. Students will have one day for each day absent to make up missed classroom work.
Parents/guardians of an elementary child can help their child successfully complete their homework assignments by:
Parents/guardians of a middle school and high school student can help their child by:
No student may graduate unless a minimum of 260 semester credits in grades nine through twelve have been earned. A student must pass Bible each year of attendance to graduate. Each major subject will receive five credits per semester. The College Prep course listing provides the basic courses required for all SFCS graduates. The College Prep Scholar course listing provides a more challenging list of requirements and is encouraged for students intending to seek undergraduate and graduate studies. SFCS also partners with universities for college credit for select courses.
High School Courses | College Prep | College Prep Scholar |
Bible | High School students must pass Bible every year they attend SFCS. – 40 credits | High School students must pass Bible every year they attend SFCS. – 40 credits |
English | 4 years - 40 credits | 4 years - 40 credits, including Eng. I, Eng. II, Eng. III, Eng. IV |
Mathematics | 3 years - 30 credits, including Algebra I | 3 years - 30 credits, including Alg. I, Alg. II, Geometry |
Science | 3 years - 30 credits, 10 credits biological with lab, 10 credits physical with lab, 10 credits additional course work | 3 years - 30 credits, 2 years with lab, Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
History | 4 years - 40 credits, Cultural Geography, World History, US History, Government, Economics | 4 years - 40 credits, Cultural Geography, World History, US History, Government, Economics |
World Language | 1 year – 10 credits | 2 consecutive years - 20 credits of the same foreign language |
Fine Arts | 1 year - 10 credits | 1 year - 10 credits |
Technology | 1 year – 10 credits | 1 year – 10 credits |
Physical Education | 2 years - 20 credits | 2 years - 20 credits |
Electives | 30 credits of electives | 30 credits of electives |
Community Service | 15 hours of volunteer Community service per year are required | 15 hours of volunteer Community service per year are required |
Total Credits for Graduation | 260 + 60 Community Service Hours | 270 + 60 Community Service Hours |
A full four-year course of study provides the best experience and academic preparation for the future success of our graduates. Therefore, SFCS does not provide the opportunity for students to graduate prior to their normally scheduled graduation date.
Class changes are generally not allowed due to analysis of requirements and preparation given before registration.
All middle school students are expected to take P.E. High school students are required to take two years of P.E.
Students who are unable to participate in physical education class due to an extended illness or injury must have a doctor’s statement or parent note to be excused.
The school mascot is the Trojan, and the school colors are blue and gold. SFCS offers a variety of sports programs to the middle school and high school students. High school boys participate in cross country, soccer and basketball. High school girls participate in cross-country, volleyball, and basketball. Middle school students may participate in basketball and volleyball.
Students must complete an athletic information packet before participating in any practices or games. The information packet includes a sport’s physical form, student/parent agreement, and other required documentation for athletic participation.
A student must be in attendance at school a minimum of four class periods in order to participate in sports practices and games on that day.
Participation on the school athletic teams is deemed a privilege, not a right. Any student may be withheld from a team by the coach or administration for displaying an improper attitude.
Athletes are responsible for any work they miss as a result of games or practices. Athletes are expected to communicate with teachers to arrange make-up work, quizzes, and tests.
Students involved in sports must maintain a 2.0 GPA at each grading period and no more than one “F” in any class and no incompletes. Athletes are expected to maintain at least a “C-” in Bible class. Eligibility is determined at the end of each quarter, but the administration reserves the right remove any student from any sport at any time when the academic success of the student athlete is jeopardized. The student may become eligible at the next progress report. However, student progress will be closely observed and the final decision will be made by the administration, athletic director, and the coaching staff.
Under CIF guidelines, a student with a GPA under 2.0 may be granted special permission for one grading period to participate for a limited amount of time during a probationary period. This will be determined by the administration, athletic director, and coaching staff.
Students who are ineligible are not permitted to participate or travel with teams to athletic events. Incompletes must be made up in order to participate in sports events.
A student is not eligible while on Academic or Disciplinary Probation. (This statement of eligibility applies to all extra-curricular activities.)
SFCS offers full day kindergarten programs.
Kindergarten Beginnings is for students who turn four by December 1 of the current school year. Students turning four by December 1 will not be required to take an entrance exam to enroll into kindergarten beginnings.
Kindergarten is for students who turn five by December 1 of the current school year. Students turning five by December 1 will not be required to take an entrance exam to enroll into kindergarten.
The kindergarten programs are academic with an emphasis on Bible, phonics, reading, writing, and numbers. Students have a daily gym and park times. Kindergarten students may have additional classes including computers, music, and art.
Kindergarten Graduation is held and the end of each school year for all students being promoted to the first grade.
As a graduation requirement, high school students are required to fulfill fifteen hours of volunteer Community service per year. This service requirement is to encourage students to be attentive to the needs of others, and to willingly meet those needs. All Community Service activities must meet the following requirements:
Grades are given to inform parents of their child’s progress. The academic grade is based upon the actual work done on homework, quizzes, tests, exams, and reports, etc.
Report cards are posted on Sycamore every nine weeks. Student grades can be viewed on Sycamore at any time. Parents are welcome to use school computers to view grades or print report cards.
In addition to letter grades, students are also given teacher comments. These comments are a descriptor of the student’s work habits, abilities, struggles, successes, etc., providing a broader picture of the student’s progress.
In the elementary, habits and attitudes are given a grade on the report card. The categories evaluated are as follows: honesty, courtesy, obedience, listens attentively, cooperates cheerfully, works conscientiously, and respects rights and property of others.
SFCS does not offer Summer School for remedial work. If additional work is needed for improvement or to make up credits, parents and students are responsible to seek outside help from tutors, local educational programs, or junior colleges.
Students who seek to make up credits, should confirm with the Academic Dean that the program in which the student is participating is an acceptable program and will provide the necessary credits.
Students seeking enrichment or additional help, but not seeking credit, do not need to seek approval from the Academic Dean.
Students may not earn credits for the purpose of graduating early.
For potential school closure due to bad weather, earthquake or other unforeseen circumstances, please check Sycamore, email, or listen to your local television or radio newscasts for information pertaining to SFCS.
If a student becomes ill or is injured while at school, the office will notify the parent/guardian. If the parent/guardians cannot be contacted, the person listed on the registration form as the emergency contact will be notified. No student will be allowed to remain at school who has a temperature of 101° or more, is vomiting, has signs of head lice, or has any other potentially contagious disease or sickness. Any student who has been sent home for signs of head lice must be checked by authorized school personnel before the student is readmitted to the classroom. Any child sent home because of vomiting must remain out of school for a minimum of twenty-four hours.
Elementary classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Elementary students should be picked up before 3:15 p.m. Middle school and high school classes meet from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Wednesday is an early release day for all students. Elementary students release at 1:45 p.m. and middle and high school students release at 2 p.m.
Before School Care Services are available for students from 7 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. Half-day hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Students should be picked up by 11:45 a.m. on half days. No hot lunch will be served on half-days of school. Elementary students are encouraged to bring a snack.
For the safety of our students and the flow of traffic, please see the following procedures for drop off. All students will be dropped off in the morning at the courtyard by the glass doors. Drive along Morse Street and drop your child(ren) off in front of the white zone. A staff member will be available from 7:45 – 8:00am to assist your child in getting out of the vehicle. Please do not get out of your vehicle during this time. If you would like to park and bring your child to the door, please find a legal parking spot. Please do not block traffic or private driveways and do not park in the streets (Morse Street, Mission Street, or Whittier Street). SFCS parents represent our school, and we want to ensure we are following the law.
Any student leaving school before the end of the school day, must check out through the school office. Students in grades sixth through twelfth grades who are not feeling well may go to the office to request permission to call home. An adult must communicate with the school office for the student leaving early. Once a student is dismissed early, he is not to remain on campus or return to the campus without checking in through the office.
Each elementary class has a designated place to line up for dismissal. Students are released to the person identified on the “Student Profile Card.” If there is a change to the “Authorization,” please notify the office who will then notify the teacher. Teachers will personally dismiss each student.
In the event of rain, the classes will line up in the church lobby and parents must locate and retrieve their children in the church lobby.
Teachers stay with their class until 3:15 p.m. After 3:15 p.m., remaining students will be taken to After School Care (ASC) in Room B in the school building. Parents must sign students out from the supervising staff member. Students should be picked up no later than 5:00 p.m.
Students registered with Our Kids First (OKF) will be picked up from the line by a staff member and brought to the OKF staff member outside the school entrance.
At the conclusion of the school day, students are dismissed to go home. Students who remain on campus after 3:20 p.m. must report to ASC.
Students should not be on campus unless they are participating in a supervised activity and must go home promptly at the conclusion of the activity.
Students remaining on campus must be dressed according to school dress code. For after-hours activities requiring casual clothing, students may change before the activity begins.
Students in middle school and high school may have an opportunity to participate in student leadership. Students must apply for this leadership position. The student will be evaluated by both staff and other students in the leadership organization. Student leadership is subject to the guidelines for both Academic and Disciplinary Probation.
Additional areas for student involvement may include sports, publications staff (Yearbook, Newspaper), band, music lessons, choir, clubs, and other fine arts.
Students interested in beginning clubs or other student initiatives should contact the administration with details of their proposal. The proposal should include meeting days, students invited to participate, supervision, location, other pertinent details, and information regarding how it furthers the purpose of the school.
Students participating in band and choir will have opportunities to participate in various events including the ACSI Music festival, school concerts, nursing care facilities, etc.
Several club options are available for high school participation. Clubs vary from year to year, but may include chess, E-sports, ping-pong, baking, etc.
Occasionally a class may go on field trips to supplement the classroom instruction. Information forms containing details about the field trips are sent home prior to the excursion. Some field trips require entrance fees for which the student pays. Attendance on these outings is expected. Parents are encouraged to participate in field trips as drivers and/or chaperons.
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag and to the Savior for Whose Kingdom it stands, one Savior, crucified, risen, and coming again, with life and liberty to all who believe.
I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin against God.
Room A Kindergarten (Under Apartment)
Room B Kindergarten Beginnings (Under Apartment)
Room 1 School Building—1st Grade
Room 2 School Building—2nd Grade
Room 3 School Building—3rd Grade
Room 4 School Building—Science Lab
Room 5 School Building—Maker Space
Room 6 School Building—5th Grade
Room 7 School Building —4th Grade
Room 8 Church—MS / HS Classroom
Room 9 Church—MS / HS Classroom
Room 10 Church—Staff Lounge
Room 11 Church—Mr. Asire's Office
Room 12 Church—Copier Room
Room 13 Church—MS / HS Classroom
Room 14 Church— MS / HS Classroom
Room 15 Church— MS / HS Classroom
Room 16 Church—Mr. J. Ashton’s office
Room 17 Church— MS / HS Classroom
Room G Church—Girl’s Locker Room
Room BLR Boy’s Locker Room