Christian Academy in Japan

Elementary School Student Handbook

Grades K-5

2008-2009

 

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Welcome from the Elementary Principal

 

A beloved childrenÕs book, Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes begins with these words, Ō The day she was born was the happiest day in her parentsÕ lives. ÔSheÕs perfect,Õ said her mother. ÔAbsolutelyÕ, said her father. And she was. She was absolutely perfect.Ķ Our children are precious and when it comes time for their school life to begin we desire for it to be a joy filled and successful one.

 

Welcome to the Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ). You have become a member of a community in which we aspire to be Christ-like and caring towards one another. I trust you will feel welcome and a part of our community. 

 

It is our schoolÕs mission to equip students to impact the world for Christ. We equip students to be responsible learners, discerning thinkers, productive collaborators, effective communicators and faithful caretakers. In elementary school we aim to establish the essential foundation needed for future achievement and lifelong learning.

 

This handbook is intended to be a helpful introduction to our life together in this community. It describes who we are and what we can expect from each other as we live and work together. Reading through this handbook and keeping it handy for reference will answer many of your questions and help you feel at home more quickly.

 

CAJ reserves the right to change any policy herein at any time, at its sole discretion (or at the discretion of the Board, where applicable), whenever it determines that it is in the best interests of the school to change the policy.

 

I am looking forward to partnering with you to make elementary school joy filled and successful for your child.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jacquie Willson

 

 

Who To Contact For Questions

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Please look for answers in this handbook first, but if you are unable to find the answer to your question please consult the appropriate individual or office.  If you are unsure whom to contact, the receptionists can connect you with the appropriate person.

               School Academic office  042-471-0022

School business office  042-475-2200 

 

Questions about policy or exceptions 

               Elementary School Principal Mrs. Jacquie Willson jwillson@caj.or.jp

Questions about registration, admissions, etc.

               Registrar Miss Rita Schellenberg registrar@caj.or.jp

Questions about general counseling services

               Mr. Ushio Sawada usawada@caj.or.jp or Mrs. Ruth Spalink rspalink@caj.or.jp

Questions about health related policies

               School Nurse Mrs. Ruth Spalink rspalink@caj.or.jp

Questions about students with special needs

Resource teacher Mrs. Roberta Carrick rcarrick@caj.or.jp or Mrs. Esther Tsuji etsuji@caj.or.jp or the Student Support Team Coordinator Mrs. Ruth Spalink rspalink@caj.or.jp

Questions about athletics

               Athletic Coordinator Mr. Craig Eby  ceby@caj.or.jp  or Mr. Stephen Hall shall@caj.or.jp

 

 

 

Essential additional resources on website:            

               Who We Are

               Mission

               Beliefs

               Vision

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome

Who to Contact for Questions

 

Our life together

Introduction

General expectations

Student Objectives

Staying out of trouble

       If you get in trouble

Elementary School A-Z

Academic Help

Attendance

Bicycles

Bullying

Campus

Cell phones

Chapel

Communication

Curriculum

Dances

Dangerous items

Dress Code

Drugs and alcohol

Electronic  games

Emergency instructions

Event attendance and supervision

Extra activities

Field trips and excursions

Food and drink

Garbage and litter

Graffiti

Guidance center

Gum

Hallway rules

Harassment

Health center

Homework Guidelines

Immigration letters

Library/media center

Lost and found

Lunch

Movie usage

Music lessons

Name Tags

Parents away from home

Parent-teacher association

Parent-teacher conferences

Parties

Personal and school property

 Plagiarism

Playground rules

Publications

Razors (scooters)

Rollerblades / skateboards

Schedule

School supplies

Sunday services

Trains

Transcripts, records, and official letters

Undistracting* definition

       Visitors

 

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OUR LIFE TOGETHER

 

INTRODUCTION

Whenever people gather together for some purpose, they always implicitly or explicitly establish some codes, standards, procedures, and rules of conduct that will allow them to grow and function as individuals without stunting their neighbor's ability to do the same thing. When these persons are Christians, engaged in the common task of teaching and learning, the code for their life together is drawn from the Bible and from the discoveries and experiences of others over the years about the conditions and guidelines which will most likely produce an environment in which there is mutual respect and where every person thrives.

 

Our goal as an expression of "the body of Christ" is to show the world (including each other) what it means to have a new life because Christ died for us. All of the fruit of the Spirit, described in Galatians 5:22-23, should be evident in each one of us (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control). Any behavior, procedure, or attitude that is inconsistent with the Christian life as it is described in the Bible is unacceptable in the Christian Academy in Japan. These include being disrespectful, lying, cheating, stealing, spreading false rumors, being judgmental, and abusing our bodies or our minds.

 

But we all fall short of loving each other as we ought. The Bible has shown us how to deal with our failures, frustrations, and fights by telling us to go directly to the person who has offended us or whom we have offended. Learning how to confess wrong, forgive wrongdoing, reconcile differences (making peace), and making restitution (restoring and replacing what's been broken – whether it be trust, a window, or time wasted) are essential skills not only for our life together here at CAJ but also for our lives outside of school as well.

 

In our life together, then, we are trying to learn and demonstrate what God's love is. Our school should be world famous for the mutual love and respect we have for each other and for all the things God has given to us to use and enjoy.

 

With these goals in mind, here are some specific details about how we try to put these goals into practice at CAJ:

 

Consistent with our training in discipleship while in school is a willingness to accept responsibility for being a scholar by being diligent and consistent in oneÕs daily class work; caring for others by being friendly; offering to help when help is needed; providing comfort when others are sad or discouraged; welcoming visitors, guests, and new students; watching out for younger children on the playground and the trains and streets leading to and from school; refusing to spread gossip or rumors.

 

Inconsistent with our commitment to lead a Christ-like life are many things, including the following: any use, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs; disrespect of any other person by name-calling, profanity, or any other use of language that is intended to demean, diminish, or deny someone else's dignity; any physical behavior that is disrespectful, such as pushing, hitting, tripping, or any other form of violence; reckless use of bicycles, motorcycles, or cars; disrespect of property, which could be failure to clean up after lunch to deliberate destruction or theft.

 

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GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

In our life together at CAJ we enter voluntarily into a kind of covenant. The terms of this covenant are these:

  1. For students
    1. Be responsible.
    2. Promote a safe, healthy environment.
    3. Be respectful.
    4. Be appropriate.
  2. For parents/guardians:
    1. Know the rules and support our efforts to teach students to abide by them.
    2. Attend PTA meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and school programs/events.
    3. Communicate with teachers about the nurture of your child.
    4. Support our school by praying for us and volunteering your time for projects.
    5. Be diligent in meeting your financial responsibilities to our school.
    6. Know that you are responsible for your childrenÕs behavior in situations away from school, and understand that continued public disregard for the schoolÕs standards will result in administrative intervention and possible expulsion.
  3. For staff:
    1. Provide diligent, responsible, caring attention to the needs of each child — academic, spiritual, and social.
    2. Provide regular communication to let you know how your child is doing, what's going on at school, and explanation and clarification of policies.
    3. Be available to discuss your concerns.
    4. Pray for the students.

 

 

 

 

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STUDENT OBJECTIVES

Our program requires a biblical approach to life and learning, addresses the whole person, and equips students to become:

 

Responsible Learners whoÉ

1. Understand Bible stories, the plan of salvation, and a Christian worldview

2. Understand subject content and skills

3. Integrate content and skills from different subjects

4. Value learning

5. Use appropriate learning strategies

 

Discerning Thinkers whoÉ

1. Use a biblical perspective

2. Solve problems

3. Organize and use information to support conclusions

4. Make creative products and presentations

 

Productive Collaborators whoÉ

1. Respect themselves and others as being created in God's image

2. Work with others

 

Effective Communicators whoÉ

1. Communicate through writing, speaking, reading, listening, graphs and charts, and the arts

2. Integrate different forms of communication

 

Faithful Caretakers whoÉ

1. Serve God and others, and care for God's creation

2. Value and maintain physical, social, emotional, moral, and spiritual health

 

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STAYING OUT OF TROUBLE

Staying out of trouble means behaving in ways that honor Christ and that promote the spiritual, academic, and social growth of all of the members of our community. Trouble comes when any member of our community rejects school or community rules or rejects those in the community who are responsible for interpreting and applying those guidelines for our life together by behaving in disrespectful, unloving ways.

 

Staying out of trouble means honoring your responsibilities to CAJ and the rules and expectations that are described in this Handbook. Your teachers will also tell you what is expected in each of your classes. Staying out of trouble in Japan means knowing the rules of life in this country. CAJ students who break the law are subject to arrest and prosecution by local authorities and, in the case of foreigners, possible expulsion from the country.

 

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IF YOU GET IN TROUBLE

Because of sin in our lives, we won't be too surprised when the law of love and mutual respect is broken, school rules violated, and disputes arise among students, teachers, staff, and parents. We all have sinful inclinations, but what must be different about those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ is the way we deal with sin and its effects. The Bible is our guide for dealing with sin. The biblical process for dealing with sin includes:

 

When we follow this pattern, we can grow toward Christian maturity through our mistakes.

 

Consequences for doing wrong: Whenever you've done something wrong, there are consequences. We follow these guidelines when a student makes a wrong choice:

 

  1. Because we're looking for growth and change, the consequences of doing wrong should correct or repair the harm that has been done. Reconciliation requires personal confession and apology and forgiveness. Abuse of property may require restitution. (For example, if you make a mess, you may have to spend extra time at school cleaning; if you've wasted time in class or been frequently tardy, you may have to serve a detention or come to Saturday School; if you abuse a privilege, you may lose that privilege for a while.)

 

  1. If doing wrong seems to be a habit or a pattern, or if the deed seems especially willful or serious, we will contact parents by telephone. We may request a conference with parents to discuss the problem and possible solutions. We encourage proactive communication between parents and teachers.

 

  1. A teacher may detain a student for up to 30 minutes after school for disciplinary purposes.

 

  1. Students will be in serious trouble if they:
    1. Disobey or disrespect an adult
    2. Possess, sell, give away, or use any illegal or harmful substance such as drugs (including alcohol and tobacco)
    3. Cheat or lie
    4. Destroy, deface, or steal someone else's property
    5. Harass or abuse another person, verbally, physically, sexually, or emotionally
    6. Disrupt the learning of others
    7. Frequently are tardy to school or class
    8. Consistently refuse to do homework
    9. Cut class or leave school without permission

 

  1. A student can be suspended in or from school only by the principal in consultation with the headmaster. In-school or out-of-school suspension is a serious disciplinary consequence for serious problems or repeated lack of cooperation. A student can be suspended until the next regular meeting of the Board of Directors (which meets monthly).

 

  1. A student consistently displaying irresponsible behavior or with a poor academic record may be placed on probation. Probation allows a student to continue in school under the terms of a specific set of rules and expectations designed specifically to meet the needs of that student. Students on probation always receive a written statement of the terms of the probation.

 

  1. Students who do not live up to the terms of their probation may be asked to withdraw from school. Students may withdraw from school without any penalty and without the stigma of having been expelled on their school records. Withdrawal is a peaceful way of saying "It's not working here at CAJ, and it's time to try another arrangement that may better meet my needs." Withdrawing from school leaves the door open to returning to CAJ at some future time.

 

  1. The Board of Directors acting on a recommendation from the headmaster can only do expulsion. This is the most serious consequence of wrongdoing and is used only if all other efforts to motivate a student to responsible action have failed or if a student is a threat to the safety and well being of others. Expulsion becomes a part of the student's permanent record and means that a student may not be readmitted to CAJ. Parents are notified in writing of a recommendation for expulsion and are invited to appear at a hearing conducted by the board.

 

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CAJ Elementary School A-Z

 

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Academic Help: Students who have questions or concerns about schoolwork are expected to initiate a conversation with their teacher when time allows.  CAJ provides additional opportunities for students to receive help and information about these services can be obtained from the classroom teacher and/or the principal.  The Student Support Team works with students who have accommodation plans or special needs.  Students who have identified learning needs may receive additional help from the elementary resource teacher. See also: guidance. 

 

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Attendance: Faithful attendance is an important requirement for our life together and one of the keys to academic success. But sometimes a student might not be able to attend school, and at those times we ask that he/she tell us what's happened so we won't worry unnecessarily.

 

  1. Absence
    1. Unplanned absences (for example, sickness): Parents are asked to call the school office between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. (9:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on Wednesdays) on the day the student is absent to give notice of the absence and the anticipated duration. If the school is not contacted, a call home will be attempted to make sure the student hasn't had some unexpected difficulty on the way to school.
    2. Planned absences should be arranged with the school principal and the academic office receptionist at least one week in advance of the absence using the Elementary Planned Absence form (available in Policies and Forms under the Community tab on the CAJ homepage).  Students are expected to complete assignments by the due dates set by the teacher.
    3. Half-day/whole-day absences: Students who miss class beyond 1 PM are considered absent for the entire day, even if they come to school for some portion of the day. Students who miss class up until 1 PM are considered absent for one-half day.
    4. Truancy: Students who are absent without parental permission are considered truant. Truant students are ineligible to make up tests/quizzes but are eligible to submit assignments, which will be penalized for being late. The principal may take additional disciplinary steps to address truancy.

 

  1. Tardiness is inconsistent with our desire to respect the time we have together. Students are expected to be in their seats and ready to work at the start of each class period. Students who arrive late for school must report to the academic office.

 

  1. Withdrawing from school is accomplished with the least disruption if parents notify the school several weeks in advance. Our Withdrawal Checklist helps us complete the process in an orderly fashion. As a general rule, students may not receive credit for the grading period if they leave school more than two weeks before the end of the period. With enough advance notice, however, arrangements for exceptions can be made through correspondence course work or special tutoring so that students won't miss out on vital school experiences when they need to move before the end of the year. Students who withdraw in good standing will be welcomed back upon submission of re-enrollment forms and required documentation. Students who withdraw because of academic or behavioral problems will be considered for readmission based on submission of re-enrollment forms, necessary documentation, and an interview with the principal and headmaster.

 

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Bicycles must be used according to the laws of Japan. All bicycles should be parked in the designated parking areas and should be kept locked. Bicycle stickers identifying CAJ community members will be distributed at the beginning of each school year. To protect pedestrians, bicycles should not be ridden on the campus outside the designated parking areas and should not be used during the school day. Bicycles are not to be used in the plaza area when school is in session or an event is taking place. When the playground is used for an event, it is also off-limits to bicycles. All bicycles riders are urged to wear helmets when riding. Bicycles are personal property and should not be borrowed without the ownerÕs permission.

 

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Bullying (ijime) – see harassment

 

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Campus: The CAJ campus is clearly defined by gates, fences, and walls. The campus is private property, reserved for the use of CAJ community members and others by invitation.

  1. Official supervision by teachers on campus begins at 8:00 a.m. (9:00 a.m. on Wednesdays) and ends at 4:00 p.m. each day, Monday through Friday. For Kindergarten students, official supervision by teachers ends at the end of their class time.  CAJ assumes no responsibility for students on campus before 8:00 (9:00 on Wed) or after 4:00 or on weekends. It is the parentsÕ job to monitor the whereabouts of their children and to exercise appropriate intervention if the parentsÕ wishes are not obeyed.
  2. Once students have arrived on campus in the morning they may not leave until the school day is over. The exception is that seniors may have privileges to go into the machi for lunch and break, and Grade 9-11 students may go to ShimizuÕs during lunch and break. Students who leave campus at other times or who behave in unacceptable ways may lose these privileges or experience other consequences.
  3. At no time should students be inside any CAJ facility without the permission and supervision of an adult.
  4. Trees and shrubs are not considered part of the playground equipment and are not to be played in or on.
  5. CAJ holds students accountable for appropriate behavior to and from school. Any misbehavior before, during, and after school hours (including smoking, drinking, stealing, vandalism, and other disrespectful behavior) will be handled by principals just as if it had occurred on the campus.

 

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Students may not use cell phones during school hours (with the exception of an emergency).

 

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Chapel: All students attend chapel monthly. Every second month is designated as a Singing Chapel.  Chapel is designed to be a corporate time of inspiration, worship, praise, teaching from God's Word, and promotion of spiritual growth. Elementary parents are welcome to attend elementary chapel.

 

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Communication:

  1. CAJ desires to have a close working relationship with parents. In addition to report cards, student portfolios, and parent-teacher conferences, we have the following avenues for communication: CAJ Web site <http://caj.or.jp>, Chronicle, Alumni News, a PTA Back-to-School Night in September, Knight Sounds each month (sponsored by the PTA), and the Elementary Express. Classroom teachers will send regular class information newsletters to the parents.
  2. CAJ encourages teachers to be in regular contact with parents, and asks that parents communicate concerns or questions to teachers in a timely manner. Please phone the school during the school day or send a note or email. Teachers are not called out of class to take telephone calls; a receptionist will take a message and have the teacher return the call at his or her earliest convenience.
  3. Formal parent interviews will be scheduled for all parents in the fall with another optional opportunity after the first semester. Parents or teachers can initiate these at any time.
  4. CAJ asks that parents make an appointment in order to discuss an important issue with a teacher or principal. Important matters should not be raised in impromptu settings such as school hallways, co curricular events, or worship services.
  5. If a question or concern is not resolved, please contact the principal. If the situation remains unresolved, please contact the headmaster.

 

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Curriculum: The elementary curriculum provides regular instruction in the Bible, language arts (reading, phonics, writing, grammar, spelling, penmanship), health, mathematics, social studies, and science. . Instruction in music, physical education, art, computer, and library is offered on a regular basis.  Japanese instruction is also provided for Grades 1-5 (with the exception of ESL students who require pullout/small group work). Band is offered to students in Grade 5.

 

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Dances: CAJ does not sponsor or promote social dances.

 

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Dangerous items such as toy or real weapons (knives, guns, swords, etc.), lighters, and fireworks are not permitted and will be confiscated.

 

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Dress code: At CAJ, we try to make a positive impression on each other and on those outside our community. We also do whatever we can think of to provide an undistracting* learning environment. In order to do these two things, we need to decide on a standard of what is appropriate in many areas, including dress. Students are here voluntarily, which means that their parents choose to enroll them. Consequently, as a school, we assume students have agreed to dress appropriately, according to the schoolÕs definition of appropriate dress and/or according to the principal's interpretation of this definition.

 

Dress code is a school function code.  It applies whenever a staff member or student is on campus for school events (either as participants or spectators) or off campus and representing the school (either as participants or spectators) on school functions (field trips, concerts, games etc.).

 

We try to be positive when stating rules, but the following guidelines are listed negatively to make them as clear as possible.

As a community of people, we do not want to see:

Ĩ   underwear

Ĩ   buttocks

Ĩ   cleavage

Ĩ   a bare midriff exposed when standing, walking, or sitting

Ĩ   skin-tight clothing (except for socks)

Ĩ   excessively ripped or torn clothing

Ĩ   bare legs above half-way up the thigh (shorts - must be no shorter than half-way up the thigh when the person is standing; skirt - must not be shorter than 10cm above the knee measured with the knee resting on a flat surface)

Ĩ   clothing, hairstyles or body accessories that might intimidate or leave a negative or misleading impression with fellow students, younger children, guests at our school, or with the outlying Japanese community of which our school is a guest (this includes areas which our students commute through)

Ĩ   hats in chapel (hats allowed in some areas for high school students – classroom use is determined by the individual teachers)

 

In addition: footwear must be worn at all times on campus.

 

Please note that the rules listed in the dress code are generally not relevant for most of our elementary students and, therefore, we will not hold students in kindergarten through grade three to the dress code. We will hold students in grades four and five to the standards of the school dress code. Violations of the dress code will be handled on a case-by-case basis and may involve having the child change their clothing.

 

 

 

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Drugs and alcohol: CAJ forbids the use of tobacco, alcohol, or other illegal drugs on or near school grounds, at any school-sponsored events, or anywhere within the jurisdiction of the school.

 

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Electronic games may not be used during the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

 

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Emergency Instructions:

  1. Closing:  If school is closed because of bad weather or some other emergency, we will:
    1. Post the closure on the CAJ website <http://caj.or.jp>
    2. Send an emergency closing announcement by email to all CAJ families
    3. Activate a school closing message in the academic office 042-471-0022
    4. Attempt to have the announcement made on the 810 AM radio band

 

  1. Disasters: The school is equipped with generator power as well as emergency supplies of food and water. For emergency contact, the school also has a cellular phone number that is available only to CAJ families and is published at the front of the school directory (called ŌWhoÕs WhoĶ).
    1. In the aftermath of a disastrous situation that occurs while school is in session:

                                                          i.      Until a general Ōall clearĶ statement is issued by authorities, students will not be permitted to leave campus without administrative consent or being accompanied by a parent or guardian;

                                                        ii.      No student will use the CAJ telephone unless directed. Students may use cellular phones.

    1. Parental responsibilities are as follows:

                                                          i.      Ensure that students carry school and other identification cards with them at all times

                                                        ii.      Advise children of the necessary actions and responsibilities if caught en route to/from school

 

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Event attendance and supervision:

1.           Students and parents are welcome and encouraged to attend the variety of school programs, concerts, and sports activities offered throughout the year.

2.           If a child is a part of the program, the school will supervise the student; but if the child is not participating in the program, the parents are responsible.

3.           Students who come for events are expected to remain at the event. At programs and during indoor sports events, elementary children are to be supervised by their parents. At no time should students be inside any facility without the permission and supervision of an authorized adult.

            4.         The mini-gym is open to parents who want to watch the game while supervising their small children            

                        (up to and including grade 5). A child should not be sent to play in the mini-gym without having

                        arranged for someone to look after him/her. Small children in the mini-gym without direct parental             

            supervision and middle school students will be asked to return to the main gym.

 

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Extra Activities: The elementary school offers some extra activities such as band (Grade 5), choir (Grades 3-5), Field Day, Elementary Hike (Grades 1-5), and musical programs. The following are offered on a rotational basis, one every year: Service Project Week, Mini-courses, and International Week.

 

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Field Trips and Excursions: All grades take school-day field trips coordinated with the curriculum. All policies of the school and expectations for behavior are in effect during these trips.  Existing and proposed outings are under constant review.  In grade 5 the students go on an overnight camping trip.

 

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Food and drink in the school buildings interferes with our schoolÕs goals and objectives when someone eats or drinks in a distracting way, doesnÕt take responsibility for his/her garbage, leaves food in places that might attract pests, doesnÕt take responsibility for a mess he/she makes, or damages property through irresponsibility. Therefore, the following rules apply:

  1. Food and drink in the auditorium: No food or drink may be consumed inside the auditorium unless there is an intentional exception made.
  2. Food and drink in classrooms: No food may be consumed during class time unless allowed by the teacher. Some teachers allow drinks in the classroom. All drinks must be in a closed container.
  3. Food and drink in the gymnasium. No food or drink may be consumed inside the gym, except in the gym lobby.
  4. Food and drink in hallways: No food or drink may be consumed in the school hallways or the atrium area.

 

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Garbage and litter: It is harder to study in a messy, disorganized place than in a clean one. It also feels good to take care of things and places by maintaining or restoring them; this feeling translates to a positive pride in the things and places we care for. When students feel good about themselves, each other, and their school, this high regard has a measurable positive impact on their attitudes and performance. Finally, it feels good to demonstrate this positive attitude and in so doing, to consciously set an example for others. Therefore, at CAJ, elementary school students and teachers are responsible to:

  1. put garbage in the correct receptacle
  2. pick up any garbage on the ground around the receptacle when they go to use it, regardless of whether they dropped it or not
  3. pick up garbage that they walk by in the school building or on the grounds regardless of whether it is theirs or not
  4. demonstrate pride in CAJÕs resources in practical ways whenever the opportunity arises

 

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Graffiti: Students may not write on or carve into desks, tables, picnic tables, or other school property.

 

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Guidance Center:

  1. CAJ provides a variety of services through the K-12 guidance office: study skills, career testing and guidance, college selection advice and information, academic support, course scheduling advice to high school students, and achievement testing.
  2. The guidance counselor(s) provides limited, non-intensive personal counseling and is an information resource for the community; more serious issues are referred to outside resources.

 

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Gum: Elementary school students are not allowed to chew gum during school hours (8:00AM-4:00PM).

 

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Hallway Rules:

  1. Kindergarten students are to line up by their classroom when the teacher on duty blows the whistle.
  2. Students in Grades 1-3 use the outside stairs facing the train tracks on the west. Grade 3 students enter immediately. Students in Grades 1-2 are to line up on the stairs and are led in by the teacher. Grade 4-5 students enter from the door nearest their classroom without the use of lines.
  3. Students are to remove their outdoor shoes at the door or entry and put on their indoor shoes outside their classrooms.
  4. Students are to walk in the hallways, not run.
  5. When other classes are in session, quiet is a must.
  6. Umbrellas are to be placed in containers at the classroom doorways on wet days.

 

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Harassment: Any harassment (physical, verbal, emotional, sarcastic, mocking humor by adults or students) based on ethnic, religious, physical, or gender differences or any other reason is strictly forbidden and will be promptly investigated and resolved. Students who suffer such harassment from another student or staff member or know of a situation where it has occurred should report it to a teacher, guidance counselor, or a principal immediately. The report will be investigated promptly, and those found guilty of such harassment will face disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Students who make such a report will be protected against reprisal from others.

 

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Health Center: The health center is staffed by a full-time nurse from 8:00 a.m. (9:00 a.m. on Wednesdays) to 4:00 p.m. to help promote the health and safety of students. The nurse administers initial first-aid treatment for illness or injury and is a resource of health information to the community. The nurse also coordinates all required student and staff health data.

  1. All new students and those entering grades 6, and 9 are required to submit completed Health History, and Physical Examination forms before attending classes. The Health History form, to be completed by the parents, includes general health information, allergy information and immunization history. Please answer all the questions on the form. You may attach a photocopy of the immunization record in English or Japanese if you wish.  The Physical Examination form, to be completed by your physician, consists of a general review of body systems and should include a discussion of your childÕs immunizations. Please use this opportunity to update any missing or outdated immunizations such as measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, and tetanus. These exams should be obtained within six months of the studentÕs first day of school.
  2. A screening for tuberculosis is required for all new and returning 6th grade students. Please answer all the questions on the Tuberculosis Screening form and present the form to your physician at the time of the physical examination. If your physician determines that risk factors for TB are present, he will perform the tuberculosis skin test (PPD) or chest x-ray. If your child has no risk factors, as determined by your physician, further testing is not indicated. Please return the Tuberculosis Screening form to school along with the other forms. The Tuberculosis Screening form has been translated into Japanese for your convenience.
  3. Each family is required to submit a yearly Family Emergency Information form. This form grants the nurse permission to administer care and selected medications, provides updated medical information, and an alternate contact person for emergency situations when the parent cannot be reached.
  4. Students requiring administration of prescription medication during the school day must submit the Permission to Administer Prescription Medication form signed by the prescribing physician and a parent. Medications need to be in the original packaging.
  5. Students who are ill and/or have the following symptoms should not come to school:
    1. A temperature of 99.6 F (37.6 C) or above.
    2. Vomiting or diarrhea.
    3. A contagious-looking skin rash or infection, or lice.
    4. Symptoms of tonsillitis or strep throat, such as fever, very red sore throat with or without white spots, bright red tongue with protruding red spots, and enlarged lymph glands.
  6. If these symptoms are present, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible, and the student should not return to school until antibiotics have been taken for 24 hours.
  7. If it becomes necessary to send a student home during the school day, the nurse will contact the parent or the alternate contact person to make necessary arrangements.

 

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Homework Guidelines: The following are general guidelines for homework: first grade 10 minutes; second grade 20 minutes; third grade 30 minutes; fourth grade 40 minutes; fifth grade 50 minutes. Please note that these times do not include the 10-25 minutes a night standard reading assignment that every grade will include in their daily homework. As a rule there will not be homework assigned over the weekend. However, it is understood that ON OCCASION there will be times when students will have to complete long term assignments or assignments not completed on the weekends. For any longer projects or papers assigned, the teacher will provide guidance along the way with deadlines and clear expectations assisting students in the completion of the assignments. There can be exceptions with projects and large assignments, but they will be the exception and not the rule.

 

 

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Immigration Letters: When a letter certifying a studentÕs current enrollment at CAJ is needed by Immigration, please notify the academic office at least one week in advance. When the letter is ready to be picked up, someone from school will email you.

 

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Library and Media Center:

  1. Library usage: CAJ students, staff, their families and ESS students are welcome to make use of the library.
    1. The primary role of the library is to support the educational and research interests of CAJ students and staff. Because our library serves a wide range of students and families whose interests and needs differ, and because there is a wide range of views within our community on what is appropriate for a library, it should be recognized that not all materials on the shelves are acceptable for every student or family. The library is distinct from the classroom in that free choice is involved in the selection of materials. The librarian cannot be, nor should be, a watchman over the materials an individual student chooses. The librarian cannot know either the wishes of the parents for the children or the maturity level of each individual student. The ultimate responsibility for what a student reads and views rests with the student and the parents.
    2. Respectful conduct is expected of all persons using the library so that we can be good stewards of our God-given resources. Abuse of library privileges may result in restricted use of materials and facilities.
    3. Books circulate for two weeks during the school year and longer during the summer. Fines are assessed for books returned late and for damaged materials. The borrower must pay for lost materials. Unpaid fines may result in withheld student records.
    4. The library is open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:25 p.m. except on Wednesdays, when it is open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:25 p.m. During this time priority is given to teachers and their classes. The librarians may occasionally close the library to additional students when a large class has reserved the library. Summer library hours are posted at the beginning of each summer.

 

  1. CAJ library collection development policy (including books, movies, and videos)
    1. Purpose: The library will provide books and media materials which:

                                                          i.      Support the goals of CAJÕs statement of philosophy and purpose

                                                        ii.      Enrich and support all subject areas of the school curriculum, taking into consideration the varied interests, abilities, and maturity levels of the students served and their teachers

                                                      iii.      Stimulate growth in factual knowledge, literary appreciation, aesthetic values, and ethical, moral, and biblical convictions

                                                      iv.      Are from both Christian and secular perspectives in order to challenge studentsÕ minds and spirits, to develop and nurture them, to better equip students to minister to a needy world, and to respond to the issues of their lives

                                                        v.      Serve the recreational and informational needs of the CAJ community in general, where possible, although this is a matter of secondary concern

    1. Principles: The library collection will be governed by the following fundamental principles: appropriateness, educational potential, moral integrity, aesthetic excellence, and prudence.

                                                          i.      Appropriateness: Christian standards – such as can be derived from the Bible (e.g., Philippians 4:8; Ephesians 5:4; I Peter 3:15-16; etc.) – shall be placed above personal opinion in selecting materials that are an honor to God and useful to His people.

                                                        ii.      Educational potential: Materials that have potential for enlarging a studentÕs vision, deepening his/her faith, and sharpening his/her sensitivity as a Christian human being shall be sought over those that are superficial or narrow in their scope or point of view.

                                                      iii.      Moral integrity: Reason and fairness shall be placed above ignorance and prejudice in selecting materials, which fairly represent the current state of affairs in the world that God has made. Materials that present an honest, penetrating view of life, even though they may challenge or shock, will be considered if they meet the criteria outlined in this document.

                                                      iv.      Aesthetic excellence: Artistic excellence, engaging the studentÕs imagination and emotions, will be sought in materials which provide enjoyment and inspiration suitable to Christians.

                                                        v.      Prudence: Wise care and foresight shall govern the purchase of materials that will retain value for our present and future educational needs.

 

  1. The library collection will be governed by the following specific principles:
    1. Award-winning and noteworthy works in all fields of academic interest will generally be acquired.
    2. Preference will be given to books recently published. Classic works in all fields of interest will be sought regardless of their publication date.
    3. Priority will be given at various times to collection areas that have been targeted for special development. These priorities will reflect the changing needs of the school curriculum and will be established by the school board, the headmaster, the principals, and the librarian in keeping with recommendations given by teachers and such accrediting professional organizations as WASC. Such priorities will result from a regular review of our library collection.
    4. Not collected will be materials:

                                                          i.      Of an interest or of a research level outside the needs of the CAJ school community

                                                        ii.      Which use profanity, obscenity, or violence gratuitously, i.e., as the primary attraction to the reader/viewer

 

  1. Concerns about the appropriateness of materials in the CAJ library collection should be brought to the attention of the librarian. There is a form available to ask for reconsideration of materials. If after one has submitted this form and met with the librarian and satisfactory resolution of the matter is not reached, an appeal can be made to the headmaster.

 

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Lost and Found items are kept in the library and the gym. Please check in each location when looking for a lost item.  Items can be donated to one of the twice-yearly Thrift shops without notice.

 

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Lunch: CAJ provides an a la carte hot lunch program for students, and staff. Meal cards can be purchased for ´5,000 in the business office. Students are asked to be respectful by:

  1. Standing patiently in line
  2. Cleaning up and pushing in chairs, putting away all utensils, plates, trays, and trash
  3. Displaying appropriate actions at all times
  4. Following all cafeteria rules

 

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Movie Usage: It is a reasonable teaching practice to use part or all of a movie in a class. However, because our school serves a wide range of students and families whose convictions differ, and because there is a wide range of views within our community on what is appropriate, CAJ recognizes that not all movies are acceptable for every student or family. Therefore, we are guided by the following:

  1. CAJ uses movies in class to teach rather than to entertain
  2. Any movie used in class has been previewed and approved by the principal
  3. The ultimate responsibility for what a student views rests with the student and the parents
  4. Students will be notified in advance of a movie being shown
  5. If a student or parents object to a particular movie, they may request an alternate assignment

CAJ video usage policy

1.      Purpose: Teachers use movies which:

a.      Support the goals of CAJÕs statement of philosophy and purpose

b.      Enrich or support a particular area of the school curriculum

c.      Stimulate growth in factual knowledge, subject area appreciation, aesthetic values, and ethical, moral, and biblical convictions

d.     Are from both Christian and secular perspectives in order to challenge studentsÕ minds and spirits, to develop and nurture them, to better equip students to impact the world for Christ, and to respond to the issues of their lives

e.      Concerns about the appropriateness of movies scheduled should be brought to the attention of the principal.

2.      Movies proposed, as entertainment at optional student events will be carefully evaluated; the principal will give approval.

 

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Music lessons: CAJ offers private music lessons. Staff members coordinate these lessons, and fees are paid through the school or on a private basis, depending on the teacher. Students may also arrange to rent an instrument for an additional cost. Lessons are given for most band instruments, stringed instruments, piano, and voice. Practice rooms are available by arrangement with the music coordinator.  

 

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Nametags: Parents, staff and visitors are required to wear names tags when on campus during school hours.

 

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Parents away from home: Prior to leaving the country (or even their home for another area within Japan) for a period of time, parents must leave contact numbers and intended length of absence with the academic office in case of an emergency.

 

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Parent Teacher Association:

  1. The PTA is an organization that supports the ministry of Christian Academy in Japan; volunteers are always needed to help in a variety of ways.
  2. An executive committee responsible for its activities leads CAJÕs PTA. These include evening meetings such as Back-to-School Nights and two yearly Thrift Shops.
  3. All profits from the Thrift Shops are used for school-related and student-related projects and activities. Some recur annually, such as subsidizing the publication of the monthly school newsletter Knight Sounds and underwriting part of the cost of the 8th grade and senior class excursions.  Other requests for equipment, services, or activities not included in the current school budget are presented to the executive committee of the PTA at one of its monthly meetings after having been approved by the headmaster.

 

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Parent-Student-teacher conferences are scheduled in November. At other times, conferences are scheduled at the request of parents, teachers, or administrators. Parents are invited to meet teachers in their classrooms during Back-to-School Night, held soon after school begins in the fall. 

 

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Parties:

  1. Class parties are scheduled periodically throughout the year. Parent volunteers are needed for these, and your help is greatly appreciated.
  2. If your child wishes to bring treats to share with classmates in celebration of their birthday, please notify the classroom teacher well in advance and please make the preparations simple. For outside-of-school parties, please do not distribute invitations in school unless the entire class is invited.

 

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Personal and school property:

  1. A fundamental principle for our life together is respect for each other, which includes each other's property. We expect that everyone who shares the use of school facilities will help to take good care of them as part of our desire to be faithful caretakers of the resources God has given us to use. Those who are disrespectful will make restitution with their time and their yen. There is no insurance to pay for personal or school property that is abused.
  2. CAJ provides storage space for every student for personal items.
  3. All hallway hooks/cubby holes and school desks are school property loaned to students. Principals may inspect hallway hooks/cubby holes and desks at any time. Items left in areas other than places described above may be collected by the principal and taken to the Lost and Found with the purpose of maintaining an attractive building for visitors and demonstrating an atmosphere of gratefulness for the great facilities that God has blessed us with. Students who want their things back can inquire of one of the librarians or check in the gym. See also: Lost and Found
  4. Unfortunately, occasionally a member of our community does not respect the property of others. Don't leave money or things of value where others may take them. If you must take something valuable to school, ask a teacher or someone in the office to keep it for you until you need it.
  5. Umbrellas are personal property and should not be borrowed without the ownerÕs permission.

 

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Plagiarism: It is a serious offense to present someone elseÕs oral or written work as your own. CAJ encourages collaboration, and teachers may from time to time use group assessments. However, plagiarism is a form of stealing and is both unethical and illegal.

 

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Playground rules:

  1. The hostel, auditorium, dining room, and fences bound the playground area. Shrubbery areas, the stone area surrounding the auditorium and dumpsters are out-of-bounds.
  2. Playing on the auditorium ramp and climbing on the ramp bars is prohibited.
  3. Snacks should not be eaten while running around or playing on the playground equipment. Dispose of trash properly. Sharing of food is discouraged.
  4. Any form of glass, such as glass bottles, is not allowed on the playground.
  5. The outdoor washrooms are not to be used for getting water for play. Wash sandy hands using the outside water source.
  6. No playing with sticks and no throwing of stones, sticks, etc.
  7. Soccer play is to be only in the large open area. Soccer balls need to stay on the playground (not around the playground equipment or bushes). Sliding tackles in soccer are dangerous and should not be made.
  8. No playing with baseball bats and hard balls.
  9. Children are to sit down on the swings, with only one person at a time on a swing.
  10. Only one person at a time is to go down a slide. Blocking is not allowed.
  11. Climbing is to be done only on the creative play structures. Trees are off-limits.
  12. If a ball goes over the fence onto the tracks, consult the recess teacher. The recess teacher will notify the Academic office that will call for maintenance assistance.
  13. Kindergarten students are prohibited from climbing on top of the Knights Castle circular slide.

 

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Publications: CAJ students produce a yearbook, known as the Matsu, and are at times involved in publishing newspapers and literary magazines.

 

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Razors (scooters) must be used according to the laws of Japan and are not to be used in the plaza area when school is in session or an event is taking place. Razors should be folded and stored at the studentÕs hallway hook.

 

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Rollerblades/skateboards: The use of rollerblades/skateboards on campus is limited to the tennis court play area at times when the court is not being used for tennis or basketball.  Skateboards are not to be used on the way to or from school and cannot be stored on campus.

 

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Schedule:

  1. Grade K: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

                                   9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Wednesday

 Kindergarten ESL classes are on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Only kindergarten students enrolled in the ESL program are supervised for lunch in the cafeteria from 12:30-1:00 p.m. Any other kindergarten students must be accompanied by their parent/guardian if they wish to eat lunch in the cafeteria.  Kindergarten students are to be picked up by a parent(s) or a guardian and are expected to either leave the campus immediately after classes end or are to be supervised at all times on campus by their parent or guardian. Kindergarten students are not to wait by themselves for their older siblings or parents on the school campus.

 

  1. Grades 1-5: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

                     9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Wednesday

ESL WriterÕs Workshop classes are on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.   

  1. Class, recess, lunch, and special class times vary each year, and these schedules are sent home at the beginning of the year.
  2. Students may not leave campus between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. except by permission of the classroom teacher. Shimizu's is considered off-campus for elementary students.

 

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School supplies: During the first week of school individual teachers will inform students of what specific supplies are needed in that grade. Specific indoor shoes  (no black soles) are to be worn in hallways, classrooms and for PE. These are kept at school. The labeling of clothing, especially sweaters and jackets, would assist in the return of lost articles.

 

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Sunday Services: All students and parents are encouraged to attend Sunday worship services. Information about various churches in the greater Tokyo area can be obtained from the school offices.

 

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Trains: Many CAJ students commute to school by train. Students may request school verification forms for reduced train fare passes at the business office. Please apply one week prior to going to the local train station to purchase/renew a pass. Students older than 12 who are taking a JR train trip longer than 100 kilometers may apply for a special 20% discount form (gakuwari) in the business office.

 

CAJ is responsible for students on the trains and train platforms, and all school rules apply. In addition, train regulations forbid the following:

  1. Falsifying name, age, date, stations, or other items on the pass
  2. Using another person's pass
  3. Combining a ticket with a pass and not paying for stations in between
  4. Failing to show the pass to train officials upon request

 

In addition to these legal requirements, CAJ students are expected to be polite, courteous, and well mannered to and from school. Students are expected not to:

  1. Roughhouse on the trains or platforms
  2. Hold the train doors open for friends who are late
  3. Sit on the floors or stand on the seats of the trains
  4. Swing from the handstraps
  5. Block others from getting on or off the trains
  6. Chase each other from car to car or on the platforms
  7. Throw things out of the windows
  8. Eat or drink on the trains
  9. Run through the turnstiles to avoid paying
  10. Create disturbances by loud or obnoxious behavior or by inappropriate use of cell phones, for example

 

Train officials can suspend a train pass or charge substantial fines for misconduct. In addition, CAJ may:

  1. Reroute or reschedule a studentÕs travel
  2. Require parents to accompany the student to make an apology to the stationmaster

 

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Transcripts, records, and official letters: All requests should be made one week in advance of the date needed. Contacting the registrar <registrar@caj.or.jp> can make requests for school transcripts and school records. Requests for other official letters (to provide documentation of attendance, enrollment, etc.) can be made by contacting the CAJ info desk <infodesk@caj.or.jp>.

 

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*Undistracting is not a word anywhere except at CAJ, where it means Ōthe opposite of distracting.Ķ

 

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Visitors:

  1. All visitors are asked to check in.
    1. All students who have made previous arrangements to visit classes are asked to report to the academic office to pick up passes.
    2. ESS students who have made previous arrangements to visit classes are asked to report to the ESS office.
    3. All other visitors (8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) are asked to sign in at the business office upon arrival.
  2. We enjoy having students visit CAJ. Whenever a non-CAJ student would like to visit CAJ classes, all arrangements should be made through the Educational Support Services office (Tel. 0424-71-3694; <sss@caj.or.jp>) at least one full week in advance.
    1. In order to maintain the integrity of classroom instruction, there are certain days designated for visitors. Generally, we welcome visitors October 1 – December 5 and January 13 – April 30.
    2. However, there are circumstances such as field trips, testing, Thrift Shop, and overcrowded classes that are not conducive to hosting guests. The ESS office will advise as to which specific days are available.
    3. Visits are limited to one school day per year, except in special circumstances. We ask for your understanding if we are unable to grant a request.
  3. When a classroom visit cannot be arranged, visitors are welcome to visit the library, gym lobby, cafeteria, and benches outside.
  4. Class and student council activities are reserved for CAJ students only unless specifically stated.