HOPE ACADEMY POLICY HANDBOOK
Hope Bible Church | 9112 Guilford Road |Columbia, MD 21046
(443) 200-HOPE | www.hopeacademyhbc.org | info@hopeacademyhbc.org
FOUNDING PASTOR’S WELCOME & COMMENTS 4
MISSION OF HOPE ACADEMY - PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION 7
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (1st - 6th GRADE) 9
JUNIOR HIGH (7th-8th GRADE) & HIGH SCHOOL (9th-12th GRADE) 10
PLACEMENT TESTING AND READINESS ASSESSMENT 11
SIGNIFICANT FAMILY LIFE CHANGES 12
BULLYING, HARASSMENT, & PHYSICAL ALTERCATIONS 14
DROP OFF AND PICK UP PROCEDURES 20
CURRICULUM, TEXTBOOKS, & LIBRARY RESOURCES 23
CLOSING, DELAY, AND EARLY DISMISSAL ALERTS 24
ILLNESSES & COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 24
VIRTUAL CLASS OPTION FOR CONVALESCING STUDENTS 25
ACADEMY LUNCH & SNACK POLICY 27
PARENT SERVICE REQUIREMENTS 30
PARENTS ENCOURAGING PARENTS (PEP TALK) 31
HOPE ACADEMY GOOGLE WORKSPACE FOR EDUCATION 32
Dear Homeschool Parents & Students,
Welcome to Hope Academy! Hope Academy is a ministry of Hope Bible Church, a church committed to the application of God’s Word into every area of life.
Hope Academy extends that philosophy into the realm of education. We are committed to coming alongside parents who choose to homeschool their children by providing a Christ-centered, Bible-driven, relationally satisfying, and academically sound environment for learning and for Christian growth.
We are joyful that you are considering Hope Academy as a place for your family to grow together academically, socially, and spiritually. Please do not hesitate to ask how we can be of service to you and your family and how you can get involved using your gifts and talents to promote solid Christian education.
~ Pastor Tom Leake, 1961-2021
We desire that all of our students, tutors, and staff strive for HOPE in their daily lives.
HEART FOR OTHERS
OBEDIENCE TO AUTHORITY
PURSUIT OF HOLINESS
EXCELLENCE IN STUDIES
“Whatever you do, work heartily for the Lord and not for man.” Colossians 3:23
The Hope Academy Policy Handbook is intended to provide guidance and information for families of Hope Academy. The content of the handbook is subject to change at any time without notice by the Hope Academy Leadership Team. Hope Academy and the Leadership Team are not in any way contractually bound by the Hope Academy Policy Handbook. For the most updated copy of the Hope Academy Policy Handbook, please contact the Hope Academy Leadership Team. Enrolled families are responsible to remain up to date on all policies and procedures of Hope Academy.
Hope Academy began during the 2008-2009 school year as a ministry for homeschool families of Hope Bible Church. It was started as a co-op by the wife of the senior pastor of HBC and other homeschool moms who desired to glean from each other in their homeschool journey. Eventually, Hope Academy became a state recognized Home Education Oversight program. At the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year, Hope Academy transitioned from a single day co-op, which was open only to HBC member families, to a twice-a-week hybrid tutorial now serving like-minded Christian families in Howard County and other surrounding areas.
Hope Academy, as a ministry of Hope Bible Church, subscribes to the doctrinal statement of the church. All classes, instruction, and activities will be conducted in accordance with these teachings. The statement of faith of Hope Bible Church can be found at: https://hopebiblechurch.org/statement-of-faith/. The basic doctrinal overview is as follows:
As a ministry of Hope Bible Church, Hope Academy follows the Philosophy of Ministry of Hope Bible Church. Hope Academy views all tutors and staff members as integral participants in the ministry of the church. As ministers of the church, tutors agree to uphold the church’s doctrinal beliefs in the classroom and in their personal lives. A full copy of the Philosophy of Ministry can be found at https://hopebiblechurch.org/ministry-philosophy/. A summation of the philosophy of ministry is as follows:
The central commitment of Hope Bible Church is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Head of the Universal Church. This is clearly the role of the church as expressed in the Bible. In order to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, we follow the Bible’s threefold purpose for the church:
Scripture also teaches us how those objectives should be accomplished and what convictions the local church should maintain as it grows and strengthens from generation to generation.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 “Whatever you do, work heartily for the Lord and not for man.” Colossians 3:23
Hope Academy exists as a ministry of Hope Bible Church with the mission of supporting local homeschool families by offering a platform and assistance for parents to take control of their children's education while retaining the benefits of Christ-centered classroom instruction with opportunities for relationships with peers and tutors, fostering biblical discipleship amongst our staff and families, and above all bringing glory to God.
Hope Academy seeks to foster a love of learning and excellence in the students’ academic pursuits, along with fostering a sense of community amongst local believers. We strive to encourage parents as they fulfill their God-given role of educating their children and raising them to love and serve the Lord .
The Leadership Team of Hope Academy has adopted an admissions policy that opens academy enrollment to Maryland resident families who are like-minded spiritually and are supportive of our philosophy, objectives, and standards of education whose children meet our enrollment standards.
Before applying for enrollment to Hope Academy, families must read the following documents which are located on our website www.HopeAcademyHBC.org under the handbooks and policies section:
These documents will introduce parents to many of the Academy’s policies, procedures, and expectations for both parents and students. The Handbook explains our religious purpose, mission, and beliefs. Hope Academy, as a ministry of Hope Bible Church, unashamedly believes, teaches, and practices a literal interpretation of the Word of God. If a parent does not agree with our religious mission and beliefs, enrolling their child in our academy will likely cause him or her confusion. For example, if a question regarding biblical lifestyles arises in Chapel or a classroom, the teacher will answer from a biblical viewpoint consistent with our Mission, Statement of Faith: “What we Teach,” and Philosophy of Ministry. If family beliefs and lifestyle choices are not in agreement with our doctrinal stance, that answer will likely create conflict in the child’s heart and mind. This internal conflict could drive a wedge between parent and child, cause the child to negatively judge their parent, or force the child to choose between the teaching received at Hope Academy and what he or she learns at home. We respect every parent's desire to place their child in the best possible learning environment, but if a family is not in full agreement with our doctrinal positions, it will be best for all concerned if the child is not enrolled in Hope Academy.
Biblical principles are integrated into every subject instructed at our academy. Our staff is committed not only to academic excellence but also to teaching students how to apply the truths of God’s Word to every aspect of life. If parents are in agreement with the teachings of God’s Word, this academy will complement the beliefs and ideals the child is taught at home. We desire to partner with parents to educate their children in God’s truth.
Hope Academy takes the safety of our students seriously. For this reason, we require that all staff and individuals who serve in any capacity (incl. staff assistant shifts) submit to a background check. Each parent/guardian that will serve any parent helper or staff assistant shifts must either:
Children who will be at least age 4 by September 1st of the school year in which they wish to enroll are eligible to apply for Preschool 4. Priority is given to younger siblings of currently enrolled students and children of HBC member families. Students entering Preschool will be evaluated based on social, emotional, and physical development.
Students who will be age 5 by September 1st of the school year in which they wish to enroll, are eligible to apply for Kindergarten. Students who will turn age 5 between September 1st and December 31st of the school year in which they wish to enroll, are eligible to apply but will be placed on the waitlist until the close of the registration period and then will be considered for enrollment if space permits. Enrollment preference will be given to students who meet the September 1st age cut-off. All Rising Kindergarten students will be assessed to determine readiness for the program.
Students who will turn the appropriate ages by December 31st of the school year in which they wish to enroll, are eligible to apply. For example, a first grader should turn 6 by December 31st, etc. Every 1st-6th grade student will be assessed to determine the readiness for the program.
Hope Academy holds a view that students who are above grade level in academic courses can still greatly benefit from participating in a classroom with their age level peers. The beauty of homeschooling allows for students to excel in academics at their own pace however, enrollment in the CORE program does necessitate that students in a class advance at a similar pace for the benefit of the class. Students who are significantly above grade level in specific academic subjects may be encouraged to remain in their age appropriate grade level with Hope Academy and supplement at home with additional resources. Acceptance into a grade or class higher than the age appropriate level will be at the discretion of the Leadership Team.
Students who will turn the appropriate ages by December 31st of the school year in which they wish to enroll, are eligible to apply. Every 7th-12th grade student will be assessed to determine the readiness for the program. Acceptance into a grade or class higher than the age appropriate level will be at the discretion of the Leadership Team.
Special Notes:
Hope Academy Staff will conduct student placement testing for all students (K-12th) as part of the enrollment process. Incoming students in grades K-12 will be tested for social, emotional, and academic readiness. The assessment will be of the whole child with the intent of placing them in the grade that will benefit their long-term success.
Applicants will be interviewed by members of the Leadership Team and staff. Parents and all students applying for enrollment must be present at the interview. Families must bring the following items with them to their interview:
Once a decision has been made by the Leadership Team, families will be notified via email regarding the status of their application. A signed enrollment contract and commitment deposit must be returned to the admissions director within 10 days of receipt to secure enrollment. Class selection occurs after a family has been accepted into Hope Academy and placement testing has been completed.
If any family who has previously had children enrolled in Hope Academy wishes to reapply for admission after one semester or more away from Hope Academy, they may be required to participate in a readmission interview, placement assessments, and similar admissions criteria as with new families.
All new families and/or students fall under an 8-week probationary period from the first day of classes. During this time, Hope Academy Leadership Team members and tutors will observe student(s) within classrooms and throughout class days. If at any time during the probationary period the Leadership Team deems it necessary for a family and/or student to be dismissed from Hope Academy or a particular class, tuition will be refunded as prorated from the final date of classes attended minus curriculum costs and class fees. If a family and/or student is dismissed outside of this probationary period, no refund will be issued and families will remain financially responsible for all outstanding tuition and fees.
Hope Academy budgets and secures tutors and staff based off of enrollment. Due to this fact, enrolled families are expected to commit to a full academic year of tuition and will be financially responsible for the complete outstanding balance of tuition and fees after the class selection/registration. We understand that occasionally it may be necessary for a family and/or student to withdraw from an individual class or from Hope Academy. Parents wishing to withdraw their child from an individual class or from the Hope Academy Tutorial or Umbrella program will require a conference with the Leadership Team and tutors.
Hope Academy is not always able to meet the educational needs of children with physical, emotional, or learning disabilities. Prospective families are encouraged to speak with the Hope Academy Leadership Team in order to understand the available resources prior to applying.
We urge all families to notify the Hope Academy Leadership Team of any significant family life changes (e.g., health struggles, deaths, financial distress, job loss, etc.). It is our intention to come alongside and minister to the student(s) and families in appropriate ways during such times. In the case of changes in marital status, including separation, the Leadership Team must be notified. The Leadership Team will evaluate continued attendance and re-enrollment of student(s) as appropriate.
Enrollment at Hope Academy is valid for one full academic year only, however, re-enrollment is not guaranteed. Families and students in good standing with Hope Academy will be invited to re-enroll for the following academic school year. Re-enrollment application forms will be provided during the second semester of the academic year.
All course tuition and fees are outlined in the yearly Tuition and Fee Schedule which is located at www.HopeAcademyHBC.org. Hope Academy will provide each family with a financial statement after class selection/registration has been confirmed. Following the class selection/registration deadline, families commit to a full academic year of tuition and will be financially responsible for the complete balance of tuition and fees for enrolled courses. Refunds will not be given for classes dropped after the class selection deadline. The signed financial statement must be returned with first payment (if payment plan option is selected) or payment in full by the first day of school.
NOTE: Tuition balances may not be carried over from a previous year. All outstanding tuition and fees must be paid in full by the end of the school year. Re-enrollment will not be considered for families with outstanding balances from previous school years.
Tuition payments are due in full by the first day of school. A quarterly payment plan option is available to families whose financial statement is $1,200 or more.
Lump Sum – One payment paid by the First Day Of School.
Quarterly – Available to families whose financial statement is $1,200 or more. A total of four payments to be made during the school year. Payments are due at the beginning and middle of each semester. (First day of school, November 1st, February 1st, and April 1st)
NOTE: Tuition balances may not be carried over from a previous year. All outstanding tuition and fees must be paid in full by the end of the school year.
“All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” Hebrews 12:11, NASB
Our staff is committed not only to academic excellence, but also to teaching our students how to apply the truths of God’s Word to every aspect of life. The purpose of Hope Academy’s disciplinary policy is to lead our students in practicing biblical correction, forgiveness, and restoration. We seek to help our students understand the ways in which their actions have violated Scripture. Our staff and volunteers take these opportunities to instruct our students in how to think and act according to biblical principles.
Training a child is the primary responsibility of the parent (Prov. 22:6). Hope Academy seeks to assist parents in the discipline and nurturing of the students in the program. This goal may be approached in different ways depending on the situation.
DIRECT PARENT COMMUNICATION
In the event that a student exhibits behaviors that are in need of a warning but are not deemed dangerous to another student or openly defiant (i.e. excessive talking, missing materials, inappropriate conversation, dress code issues, etc.), the tutor may contact the parent by phone or by email. It is our desire to use this direct, less formal communication to inform and come alongside parents in helping to train their children in righteousness. We recognize that the parents know their students best, and may be able to offer insight and suggestions on how to best work with their child.
YELLOW SLIPS
At times, Hope Academy staff may issue a yellow slip in addition to contacting a parent directly. This is an indicator of a more serious disciplinary concern. Yellow Slips may be administered for repeated offenses or breaking the code of conduct in more serious ways such as excessive/continual disruptive behaviors, extreme disrespect of authority, use of profanity, physical violence, etc. The yellow slips are placed in family mailboxes for pick up by the parent with a copy retained by Hope Academy. When a yellow slip is issued, a meeting between the student, parent(s), Student & Family Coordinator, and potentially the staff member will be requested to discuss the behavior and how to address it. It is the parents’ responsibility to address the situation at home and facilitate reconciliation as needed. If the behavior continues, further consequences will be determined by the Student & Family Coordinator and possibly the Leadership Team. These consequences may include suspension from a class, suspension from multiple classes, or, in extreme situations, expulsion from the class or Hope Academy.
Hope Academy seeks to foster an environment of respect that reflects the love of Christ. Any bullying, harassment, or physical altercations will be handled seriously. Actions taken may include: Leadership Team or Staff intervention, suspension, or expulsion. Any known harassment must be reported to Hope Academy Staff or Leadership Team immediately.
In the event that a student is found to be deceptive, untruthful, or cheating (including plagiarism) it is expected of the child’s parents to treat the infraction as a serious offense and to honor any consequences issued by Hope Academy.
In the event that a student has been involved in a serious or consistently repeated offense, the Hope Academy Leadership Team will take appropriate action, which may include suspension or expulsion. Serious offenses include, but are not limited to: harassment, cheating, theft, disrespect toward authority, physical violence, and/or illegal activity.
Scripture commands believers to make every effort to live at peace and to resolve disputes with each other in private or within the Christian church (1 Corinthians 6:1-6; Matthew 18:15-20).
SEEKING FORGIVENESS
The Word of God calls believers to confess their sins and seek forgiveness of those they have sinned against. Seeking forgiveness and reconciliation goes beyond saying “I am sorry.” The offending party is called to seek out the offended party, confessing their wrong and asking for forgiveness and in turn receive the forgiveness. When personal property is destroyed, damaged, or stolen, restitution must be made.
EXPRESSING COMPLAINTS
As a ministry of Hope Bible Church, Hope Academy expects our tutors, staff, parents, and students to model the following Biblical view of handling conflict with others (Colossians 3:12- 14):
FROM PEACEMAKER MINISTRIES...
The Seven A’s of Confession (Matt. 7:3-5; 1 John 1:8-9; Prov. 28:13)
The Four Promises of Forgiveness (Matt. 6:12; 1 Cor. 13:5; Eph. 4:32)
We expect all members of Hope Academy to behave in a manner worthy of the name of Christ. Students must conduct themselves in an orderly and respectful manner at all times. The key concepts that promote good behavior are: courtesy, safety, and cheerful submission to authority. The general code of conduct is as follows:
Any use of electronic devices on campus must be only for approved educational purposes and emergency situations.
Violation of the electronic devices policy will result in an immediate yellow slip. Further violation, whether same day or a different day, will result in confiscation of the device until day’s end as well as discussion with a Leadership Team member.
If at any time a staff member finds a student with any item deemed dangerous, distracting, or otherwise inappropriate, the item may be confiscated and turned-in to appropriate Staff. A yellow slip will be issued, and confiscated items may be returned at the end of the day. If a student is found to be in possession of a weapon or illegal substance, law enforcement will be contacted immediately.
Hope Academy is required to report any instance of suspected child abuse or neglect as soon as it is suspected.
We expect all students to attend every scheduled class session for all classes in which they are enrolled. Unnecessary trips and/or appointments are discouraged during school hours. While missed assignments and worksheets may be provided to students, Hope Academy cannot make up missed instruction, activities, discussion, review or practice. It will be the responsibility of the parent to ensure that their child remains on schedule if classes are missed. Excessive absences will be reviewed by the Leadership Team.
CHAPEL
An important part of the mission of Hope Academy is the discipleship of our students. To this end, we require that all students (1st-12th grade) enrolled in one or more tutorial classes on Thursdays are required to attend Chapel. We encourage our Tuesday only students to attend as well. This is a time to build community as we pray, learn praise songs and memory verses together, as well as announce upcoming events. Chapel is held on Thursday afternoons (see class schedule for exact time). Parents are always welcome and encouraged to join us for Chapel. Preschool and Kindergarten students are not required to attend but are also welcome to attend with a parent.
VACATIONS
If a vacation has been planned while school is in session, the Office Staff and tutors must be notified as quickly as possible. This will allow our tutors the time to prepare for the student’s absence. Occasionally students may be given assignments prior to their departure. Tutors will assess if a revised due date is necessary.
ABSENCES
When a student will be absent from any portion of their scheduled class day, an email must be sent to the Hope Academy Office – office@HopeAcademyHBC.org with as much notice as possible. Parents are also responsible for notifying each of the student’s tutors in advance of any absences and, if necessary, make arrangements to make up any missed classwork. Procedures for contacting class tutors will be provided on the Hope Academy G-Suite Platform. The Leadership Team will review cases of excessive absences.
EARLY STUDENT DEPARTURE
Students are expected to remain on campus for the entirety of their registered class day. In the event a student must leave early, they must be with a parent, guardian, or authorized person listed on the Student Profile Form. Elementary students must have a parent or guardian check them out at the Hope Academy reception desk. A middle or high school student may check themselves out according to their Student Profile Form, which clarifies if a student can check themselves out and/or if they are driving on their own.
TARDINESS
Students are required to arrive on campus and be in their seats ready for class 5 minutes prior to the scheduled class time. Any arrival after this time will be considered tardy. The Leadership Team of Hope Academy understands that there are times when it is unavoidable to be late. Unexpected issues on the road or at home are not uncommon. In these cases, we request that the office be notified as soon as possible. It is our desire to promote good stewardship of the time we have been given by the Lord and to facilitate an exemplary learning environment for our students. Repeated tardiness may affect the student’s suggested grade and will be evaluated by the Leadership Team.
Hope Academy staff will not be available to supervise students before or after the scheduled arrival and dismissal times. No student may be dropped off more than 15 minutes prior to the beginning of their first class or registered study hall period. All students must be picked up no later than 15 minutes following the completion of their last class or registered study hall period. Students are not allowed to leave the campus until they are picked up/checked out by a parent or authorized individual listed on the Student Profile Form. If parents or approved guardians will be late to pick up their students, the office must be notified immediately. The Leadership Team will review repeated late pick-ups.
Upon arrival, students from 6th -12th grade may check themselves in. Students in Pre-K through 5th grade need to be escorted into the building with a parent or guardian and checked in. Middle and High school students may check-in younger siblings ONLY if written approval has been stated on the Student Profile Form. However, the older sibling must escort younger students to the correct location - either the gathering area in the fellowship hall or the sibling’s classroom. At the end of the day, we request parents check out their students at the front desk in order to also check the family mailbox.
Parents of students who may drive themselves and/or younger siblings to and from classes, must sign a Student Driver Permission/Release Form. They must also check their family mailbox before leaving for the day.
PERMISSION TO PICK UP STUDENTS
Individuals listed on the Student Profile Form are the only ones authorized to pick up students from Hope Academy. In the instance that someone who is not listed on the student’s form is required to pick up the student, the parent must notify the office via email or phone call with follow-up written permission to office@hopeacademyhbc.org. The individual picking up the student must present a government issued photo ID. Parents are allowed to add, remove, or update authorized pick-up individuals for their student throughout the school year by sending an email from the parents hopeacademyhbc.org account to admin@hopeacademyhbc.org. Verbal permission alone is not considered adequate and students will not be released without written consent.
The partnership between Hope Academy and parents is one of the unique aspects of our program. We believe that it is the parents’ God-given responsibility to educate and train their children, and we offer parents a platform to guide and assist them in this role. While Hope Academy provides the classroom instruction, lesson plans, and guidance; it is ultimately the parents’ responsibility to ensure that the students are completing the work assigned each week for their classes in a way that is best for their child. Parents can add enrichment options for their student(s), but are not allowed to subtract or change any assignments assigned by the tutors of Hope Academy. Any changes to assignments must be discussed with the tutors and leadership in advance.
In the case of late or missing work due to an illness or emergency preventing the submission of assigned work, parents must alert the tutor and provide an explanation. Regardless of any delays, all assignments must be turned in to the tutor.
Students are expected to come to class prepared with all necessary supplies or equipment. We believe that it is never too early for our students to learn responsibility. If a student arrives without necessary supplies/equipment, one or more of the following actions will be taken:
Occasionally it will be necessary for a tutor to meet with a student’s parents. These meetings may be for a variety of reasons and will be at the discretion of the tutor. It is encouraged for both parents to attend, if possible. A parent-tutor conference will be one of the steps taken before a student is placed on academic probation, however this is not the only reason a parent-tutor conference may be held.
On occasion, a student may be considered for academic probation based on the recommendation of the tutors. If academic probation is recommended, a meeting between the parents, student, and Student & Family Coordinator will be scheduled. The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss next steps and how best to support the student in their academic career.
Hope Academy provides all necessary student and teacher curriculum to the parents of each student. These materials are the property of Hope Academy and are loaned out to each family at the beginning of the school year. Parents are expected to return all resources (books, manuals, cd’s, flash cards, pamphlets, devices, etc.) in the condition in which they were provided, save for normal wear and tear. Borrowed resources will be assessed upon their return. Charge(s) for the replacement value of the resource(s) will occur if the item is not returned or if it is returned with obvious damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Some classes also require the use of consumable workbooks, worksheets, or supplies. A class supply fee for these classes will be applied to the family account, and these items will be purchased by Hope Academy and provided to the student either with their textbooks or in the classroom as needed. Some classes require the use of a digital subscription component. Hope Academy will provide instructions on how to obtain any required digital resources.
Hope Academy does NOT strictly follow the school closures or delays of Howard County Public Schools (HCPS). Any delays, closures or early dismissal will be at the discretion of the Hope Academy Leadership Team. In the event of campus closure, classes may be conducted virtually at the discretion of the Leadership Team.
In the event that there is a widespread illness among the members of Hope Academy or Hope Bible Church, campus may be closed to help prevent the further spread of illness and classes may be conducted virtually at the discretion of the Leadership Team.
In the event of campus closure, delay, or early dismissal of Hope Academy, an alert will be sent out to all parents to their Hope Academy email account, posted on the Hope Academy Facebook page and the website (www.HopeAcademyHBC.org). Parents are strongly encouraged to sign up for text alerts through Hopebook.
Families are responsible to check their Hope Academy email and/or the website prior to leaving if the possibility of closing or delay is present. In the event of a possible delay or closure, a final determination will be made and posted no later than 6:00am on the affected day. If no announcement is made, then all classes will be conducted in person as scheduled.
Hope Academy seeks to provide a healthy and safe environment for students, staff, and volunteers. We ask that these health considerations be followed to ensure the well-being of all. It is expected that students be sent to class healthy, well rested and ready for class. Hope Academy does not have a school nurse or health room.
Children and staff must not come to Hope Academy when sick, even if wearing a mask. A classroom setting is a breeding ground for illness, and children are not always careful to avoid sharing their germs. Any student who is feeling unwell the night before and/or the morning of classes should be kept home regardless of any lack or presence of outward symptoms. A student may not attend Hope Academy classes or events within 24 hours of presenting the following symptoms or conditions:
Students who are not feeling well, tired, lethargic, or unable to participate in class will be sent home for needed rest and recuperation. Parents will be contacted to pick up their child immediately if, in the opinion of the staff of Hope Academy, the student is determined to be ill on campus. In the case of a parent being unavailable, the emergency contact of the child will be notified to pick up the child.
In the event of head lice on any child, a general notification will be sent to all enrolled families. To avoid spreading lice, parents of infected students must keep their children home from classes until they are lice and nit free.
Students who must remain at home due to quarantine requirements or personal/sibling illness and are well enough to attend class virtually, the option for students to attend class virtually may be available and is greatly encouraged for class periods that involve labs, reviews for upcoming tests, etc. In this case, parents must make arrangements with the children's tutors to observe the class virtually prior to the class occurrence.
All staff, staff assistants, and students of Hope Academy are expected to maintain acceptable standards of personal hygiene. This includes things like appropriate bathing, hair washing, grooming, and use of deodorant.
A basic student health history as provided on the Student Medical Data Form will be kept on file for each student and child care participant. If a student has a medical condition that may require urgent assistance or specific response during class time, the childs' current tutors must be informed individually by the parent in writing (with verbal explanation if also needed) before the school year begins. If at any time additional allergies or conditions are diagnosed, the Leadership Team and the child's current tutors must be informed immediately to keep the files updated.
All students are required to be up to date on all immunizations (in accordance with the Maryland Department of Health requirements for children enrolled in school or childcare programs) for their age throughout the duration of their enrollment and participation in Hope Academy. Vaccination records will be kept on file and updated records must be provided to Hope Academy by Back to School Night each year.
Vaccination records must include the following information:
We recommend and request that parents use the standard Maryland Department of Health Immunization Certificate form (MDH-896 Form).
Though the yearly influenza vaccination is not required by the Maryland Department of Health, we recommend that all students, parents, and staff members consult their personal physician regarding if they should consider receiving these vaccines.
Note: The Maryland Department of Health Vaccination Schedule and Immunization Certificate Form are available on the Maryland Department of Health website:
https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OIDEOR/IMMUN/Pages/back-to-school-immunization-requirements.aspx
Hope Academy does not provide over-the-counter medications to students. When possible, parents are requested to administer any required medication to their students either before or after school. If it is necessary for prescription or over-the-counter medication to be administered to a student during the school day, the following requirements must be met:
It is the policy of Hope Academy that all children enrolled in preschool be toilet trained. It is understood that there may be an occasional wet accident at school, but these should be rare and not daily occurrences. If it becomes apparent that the child needs more bathroom assistance than what we are able to provide, that child may not be ready for our program. In such cases parents may be asked to hold their child back from class until they are sufficiently toilet trained.
Hope Academy is committed to the Biblical principles of modesty and appropriateness in how our staff and students present themselves, and our dress code is designed to support this. We believe our dress code creates a positive atmosphere for appropriate behavior and attitudes. If a staff member deems a student’s attire to be out of dress code, the parents will be contacted and the student may be asked to change. Students may be unable to participate in class until they are in the appropriate attire (at the tutor’s discretion). It is our desire that students dress in a way that honors the Lord and each other, and does not promote distraction or competition.
Please refer to the Hope Academy Dress Code Policy Handbook that can be found at https://hopeacademyhbc.org/handbooks-and-policies.
Hope Academy recognizes that education is not limited to home or the confines of a classroom, therefore, we desire to allow students to explore the world around them by offering field trips when possible. Field trips are open to all staff and families of the Hope Academy Tutorial and Umbrella Program. To ensure safety when we are off campus as a group, we ask that the following expectations be honored:
Parental involvement in Hope Academy is a key and critical part of the daily operation and success of the program. The Hope Academy staff is dedicated to assisting you with the education of your children, however to make that possible and keep our tuition rates affordable, we depend on the active participation of the parents. To that end, we require parents to contribute service in a few different ways listed below:
STAFF ASSISTANT SHIFTS (SA SHIFTS): Staff Assistants serve a vital role in ensuring that Hope Academy class days run smoothly. It is the responsibility of each enrolled family to serve their required number of Staff Assistant Shifts each semester. The duties assigned may vary each day based upon the needs on that particular day. Parents are asked to observe the Staff Assistant dress code for their service days. Hope Academy does not provide childcare for parents while they serve required staff assistant shifts expected to make alternate arrangements for younger children who are not enrolled in classes while serving. Any 1st-12th grade student who is not enrolled in a class or study hall may utilize the study hall while their parent is serving. After the initial sign up deadline, families are required to fulfill their selected shifts or find another parent to cover any shift if they are unable to fulfill it. Families are welcome to trade shifts or cover shifts for one another at any time throughout the school year. The Staff Assistant Coordinator should be notified of any swaps or changes to staff assistant shifts, however it is not their responsibility to find someone to cover changes. In these cases, please email SAManagers@hopeacademyhbc.org.
COMMITTEE SERVICE: Every family who has one or more children enrolled in tutorial classes at Hope Academy is required to actively serve on a committee. Only one parent from each family is required to serve, but both are welcome to serve on the same or separate committees if desired. Committees are completely organized and run by the parents of HA students. As a condition of enrollment, it is expected that parents will actively participate and contribute to their selected committee. Parents are free to choose their preferred committee on a first-come, first-served basis during the sign-up period. If a parent does not select a committee, they will be placed on a committee with the most vacant spaces. Committee descriptions can be found at https://hopeacademyhbc.org/handbooks-and-policies.
Parents Encouraging Parents is a monthly support group for homeschool parents enrolled in Hope Academy. These meetings are a place for the parents to connect and get to know each other better, as well as support each other through the homeschool journey. Meetings are encouraged to be child free to maximize discussion time and support. Topics will vary and may include time management techniques, curriculum discussion, and other homeschooling related topics. Discussion times will be led by seasoned homeschool parents and leaders of Hope Academy.
Hope Academy office staff can be reached by phone or email during the school year. To reach the HA Office staff by phone, dial 443-200-HOPE (4673), press the star(*) key for the directory, and then press 5 to be transferred to the Hope Academy Front Desk. Messages left on the Hope Academy front desk voicemail will be answered as quickly as possible.
To reach Hope Academy by email, see below:
Office@hopeacademyhbc.org is the primary email address to notify the Hope Academy Office of absences or late pick-ups.
Leadership@hopeacademyhbc.org is the primary email address to contact the Leadership Team with any concerns or issues that you wish to discuss.
Admissions@hopeacademyhbc.org is the primary email address to contact the Hope Academy Admissions office and to submit New or Re-enrollment applications and referrals.
Admin@hopeacademyhbc.org is the primary email address for all other administrative questions.
Finance@hopeacademyhbc.org is the primary email address for tuition billing questions.
Info@hopeacademyhbc.org can be used to ask general information questions about the Hope Academy Tutorial or Umbrella.
Important information about Hope Academy is located on our website at https://HopeAcademyHBC.org
Hope Academy will often post information about fundraising or events open to the public on the facebook page, www.facebook.com/HopeAcademyHBC. This is a public page and members are encouraged to like the page and share posts on their own pages or with friends and family.
Each family will be assigned a “family mailbox” at the beginning of the school year. This is used by tutors and staff to send home important information, including graded schoolwork. Parents MUST check their mailbox at pick up each class day as there are often very timely items in the mailboxes such as graded assignments, tests and quizzes, or supplies needed for science activities to be completed at home. Families may use the mailboxes to pass information to other families and tutors as well. Mailboxes will not be used to advertise non-HA or non-HBC hosted events.
Hope Academy utilizes the Google Workspace education platform as the primary form of communication between the Leadership Team, Staff, Parents, and Students. Upon enrollment in either the Hope Academy Tutorial or Umbrella Program, both parents and students will be issued a Hope Academy Account with username and password. Parents will be provided with the username and passwords for their students and are responsible for activating both their parent accounts and their students accounts. Both parents are required to regularly check their Hope Academy account for important information regarding their student(s) and involvement in Hope Academy.
Hope Academy utilizes many features of Google Workspace including, but not limited to: Google Classroom, Google Groups, Google Meet, Google Calendar and Gmail.
All school events will be posted on the Hope Academy School Google Calendar. Parents are encouraged to use this to keep up to date on academy events and functions. The calendar is located on the school website. Enrolled families will be provided with a link to subscribe to the Google calendar with their Hope Academy account.
We expect our students to be responsible for their own belongings. To aid in this, we request that all student property be labeled with the child’s full name. Hope Academy will not be responsible for lost or misplaced items. Any items left after dismissal will be placed in the lost and found. Any unclaimed items in the lost and found will be donated after 30 days.
Persons acting on behalf of Hope Academy or Hope Bible Church may take photographs, video recordings, and/or audio recordings of students, staff, parents, and guests during Hope Academy classes or functions. By enrolling in Hope Academy, families understand and agree that Hope Academy and Hope Bible Church have complete ownership of such pictures and recordings, including the entire copyright, and may use them for any purpose and in any medium consistent with the mission of Hope Academy and/or Hope Bible Church. Parents, students, staff or guests will not receive any compensation for the use of such pictures or recordings.
Parents and staff may also donate photographs, video recordings, and/or audio recordings taken at Hope Academy classes or functions to be used for any purpose consistent with the mission of Hope Academy and/or Hope Bible Church.
Hope Academy Policy Handbook ￭ Revised 08/2025