Dear Parent, Thank you for your interest in Christian School of York. We take our Mission Statement very seriously and our spirit of excellence is evident in all we do. 3 John v. 4 (NIV) states: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” We teach truth—Biblical truth—at Christian School of York. At Christian School of York, we partner with parents who put Jesus Christ at the center of their lives and desire to teach their children to do the same. The key to this success is a unified effort by the family, the church and the school. After you have read through the following information, please feel free to contact me if you have additional questions. Or you are welcome to begin the online application process (instructions included). Considering that a Christ-centered education at Christian School of York is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family, please pray for the Lord’s desire to be clear in your heart. The Lord is faithful and has promised to provide for your every need. Sincerely in Him, Christine Ingari Christine Ingari Admission Officer cingari@csyonline.com 717.767.6842 x236 Information Pack (updated 3/30/12) Our Mission Statement & Vision Christian School of York exists to assist Christian parents in fulfilling their responsibility for training of their children by providing a total educational program that is biblically sound, Christ-honoring, and of high standards. We seek to produce students who recognize and practice the Lordship of Christ in all of life and learning and who are thus equipped to function well in society and as members of the body of Christ. Our Association Ownership and Operation In 1955, the pastors of the York County Evangelistic Association recognized the need for a Christian school in York County and began the organizational process, which led to the formation of the Christian School Association of York. The school is owned by the Christian School Association of York. The Association is comprised of school parents and its faculty and staff who are in harmony with the Basis of Faith of the school. It is a non-profit organization operated by an inter-denominational Board of Trustees elected by the Association. Purpose The purpose of the Association is to continue to present a quality private school that gives instruction in all subjects normally taught in public and private schools, the scholastic standards of which are above and beyond those of the public schools. Such instruction shall continue to be in agreement with the Basis of Faith in order that the students may be better equipped to lead Christ-centered lives. Diversity of Doctrines Christian School of York recognizes the wide diversity of beliefs among its Association members, an Association committed to our mission of banding together for the purpose of raising our children to love and serve the Lord. Christian church distinctives and individual convictions represented among the membership that go beyond the Basis of Faith must be given all due respect. These distinctives, however, must not be practiced or promoted in any way that would undermine the essential unity of the Association and its purpose. Therefore, distinctive doctrines and practices related to baptism, the Lord’s Supper, the Holy Spirit, or any other doctrine that might undercut the Association’s spirit of unity, should not be openly or privately advocated or practiced by adults or students in any classes, meetings, or other gatherings of this Association, formal or informal, for whatever purpose. Our Basis of Faith 1. 2. 3. We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible authoritative Word of God. (2 Peter 1:20,21;2 Timothy 3:15,16) We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19) We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of 2 4. 5. 6. 7. the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory. (Philippians 2:6-11, 1 Peter 3:18, Hebrews 2:9, Romans 5:9, Acts 2:23,24, Hebrews 8:1, Matthew 26:64) We believe that for salvation of the lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. (Titus 3:4-7) We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life. (1 Thessalonians 5:23, Acts 1:8) We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. (1 Corinthians 15:20-23, John 5:28, 29) We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:22,23, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 2:41-47) Our Accreditations Accreditation Christian School of York has dual accreditation by the Association of Christian Schools International and Middle States Association. This dual accreditation is highly recognized by colleges and universities, meeting or surpassing their acceptance standards. NILD Accreditation Christian School of York is accredited by the National Institute for Learning Development. We offer a Discovery Center and Resource Room to assist children with learning challenges. Our Administration and Staff Headmaster: Mr. Kevin Hofer Elementary Principal: Mrs. Pat Eger Early Education Center Director: Mrs. Andrea Graybill Discovery Center Director: Mrs. Lori Gartner Business Manager: Mr. Eric Dutcher Admissions Officer: Ms. Christine Ingari Athletic Director: Mr. Nate Cartledge Faculty Our faculty consists of 22 full-time teachers and 25 part-time teachers. Teachers are certified by the Association of Christian Schools International. Many of our teachers have earned or are in the process of earning masters degrees. Our History 1955—The Association adopted a constitution in July 1955, and classes began in September 1956. The school operated in rented facilities until the present 11-acre campus was purchased and seven classrooms were built in 1963. 1969—Four middle school classrooms were added. 1977—A high school addition consisting of an office complex, “sportatorium,” library, science lab, business education room, art room, homeskills room, music room, and three general classrooms was added. 1980—Four additional high school classrooms were constructed. 1990—A fire destroyed the high school complex and sportatorium during the summer. Living Word Community Church volunteered their facilities for classrooms until our current facility was rebuilt. Classes resumed in our new facility five months later. 1996—A 9,000 square foot middle school was constructed. The original classrooms were then renovated to house the Computer Center and Discovery Center. 2009—The Early Education Center was built. This 12,000 sq. ft., seven classroom building exists to house our preschool students 3 Our Parents “Our experience at CSY has been nothing but positive. The teachers and administration are superb. The education is top quality. Each time we enter the building, everyone is smiling, positive and enthusiastic. Even discipline is done with a positive tone. We thank Jesus for guiding us to CSY and keeping us here.” ~DG Parents’ Pledge 1. I have dedicated my life to the Lord Jesus Christ, determining that by His grace and with His enabling I, as a Christian parent, shall strive to live a consistent Christian life for an example, pattern, and blessing to my children. 2. I do pledge to maintain Christian principles and practices in my home so that the atmosphere of my home and that of the Christian School of York shall be in harmony. 3. I am actively involved in a church and encourage my children to participate in church and mission activities. 4. I will pray earnestly for the Christian School of York, praying for specific needs as they are made known to me. 5. I will cooperate fully in the educational programs and activities of the Christian School of York. I will do my best to make Christian education effective in the lives of each of my children in order that they may love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ all of their lives. 6. I will pay my financial obligations to the Christian School of York on or before the date due. If I am unable to pay on time, I will notify the school office in advance, giving a reasonable explanation for the delay and stating when the payment can be made. 7. I will support the Christian School of York by gifts in addition to my tuition payment and fees as the Lord enables. I will encourage others to support the school also. 8. I will undertake volunteer duties and responsibilities for the Christian School of York as the need and opportunities arise and as the Lord provides the time and strength. 9. I will regularly attend meetings and parent functions of the Christian School of York. 10. I will maintain a Christ-like attitude and cooperative spirit regarding policies and procedures established by Christian School of York. 11. I will recommend the Christian School of York to others and seek to encourage other Christian parents to consider the school for their children. 12. If I become dissatisfied with the Christian School of York in any respect, I will seek to resolve the matter with the person involved rather than to begin to spread criticism or hold a bad attitude in my heart. Volunteer Responsibilities Each school family is asked to invest at least 20 hours (per year) of personal involvement in the ministry of the school or provide $10 per hour to the school in lieu of the required 20 hours of involvement. There are many opportunities to use your abilities and interests to benefit the school. These hours may be tasks performed at home or at school. Parents’ Online Access to Student Information ~ RenWeb RenWeb is an academic website which allows parents and students to communicate with teachers and access their discipline, attendance, homework and grades 24 hours a day from any online computer. An account must be set up through the main office. Announcements, snow delays or closings and any other pertinent information are distributed through this system via email. Our Students “Thank you for operating CSY as a ministry for the Lord and being serious about prayer, the Word of God, and love for the families!” Enrollment (2011 - 2012) EEC (Preschool) 89 Elementary (K – 5th) 132 Middle School (6th – 8th) 65 High School (9th – 12th) 100 Total enrollment is 380. The 2012 senior class graduated 24 students. Most graduates pursue a college preparatory sequence. Dress Code Christian School of York does not require uniforms. However, we do require dress that is conservative and neat in appearance. The details are outlined in our handbook and on our website. 4 Our Alumni “CSY has instilled in me the value of family, Christian friends, and the importance of an everyday walk with Christ. Over the many years, CSY has prepared the way for thousands of pastors, teachers, evangelists, and good Christian mothers and fathers. Christ is counting on CSY.” ~GJ, Class of 1985 Graduates/Alumni Of our 1400+ graduates, many are serving around the world as well as here in York County. More than 90 percent have attended colleges, universities, or technical institutes. The Alumni News section of our yearly newsletter provides insight into the great impact our graduates are having on society in a wide diversity of vocations. Scholastic Aptitude Test Averages (Among the highest in York County!) Year 06-07 07-08 08-09 09-10 10-11 Reading 569 551 554 544 539 Math 539 561* 534 518 528 Writing 551 523 526 534 518 Total 1569 1656 1635 1596 1585 *One student scored 800 (perfect score) on the Math II Subject Exam! Where they go… Some of the many colleges and universities our students have attended include: Asbury College Grove City College Pennsylvania State University Baptist Bible College Houghton College Philadelphia Biblical Bryan College John Brown University University Calvin College Johns Hopkins University Shippensburg University Cedarville University Kent State University Taylor University Cornell University Lancaster Bible College United States Air Force Covenant College LaSalle University Academy Eastern University Liberty University United States Military Eastern Mennonite Malone College Academy at West Point University Massachusetts Institute of University of Southern Emory University Technology California Furman University Messiah College Wheaton College Geneva College Moody Bible Institute York College of Pennsylvania Gordon College Millersville University Our Board Board of Trustees The workings of the school are overseen by the Board of Trustees. This group of men and women are members of our Association and elected by our Association at our annual association meeting. Policy Governance® is an integrated set of concepts and principles that describes the job of our governing board. It outlines the manner in which the board is successful in its servant-leadership role, as well as in its allimportant relationship with administration. Unlike most solutions to the challenge of board leadership, its approach to the design of the governance role is comprehensively theory based. The model covers all legitimate intentions of corporate governance codes, but in a far more comprehensive manner. The CSY board believes that the Policy Governance® model will increase the likelihood of the right people, doing the right things, in the right way, at the right time, for the right reasons, so that the right results will be reached for the glory of God. http://www.carvergovernance.com/ 5 The Early Education Center (Jumpers, Hoppers, & Leapers) The newest addition to our campus is our Early Education Center (EEC). This 12,000 sq.ft. building is full of love, learning, and laughter as our students are provided with amazing opportunities to grow and learn. Complete with a fabulous Imagination Station for dramatic play, a 2,200 sq. ft. G.R.E.A.T. Room for “Godly Recreation Education And Togetherness,” and a 4,000 sq. ft. fenced-in play yard, our facility allows children to fulfill their natural love of learning as we build into each young life we are blessed to teach. cognitive, social, emotional, and physical. Children experience language arts, with a strong emphasis on readiness skills and love of the written and spoken word, math, science, and social studies. Exciting Bible lessons teach truth and meaningful life applications skills. Our students are enriched by our specials: Spanish, music and physical education. Our hands-on, sensory rich, developmentally appropriate atmosphere, coupled with our small class size and professional staff, create a loving, effective environment in which children thrive. Curriculum & Assessment The EEC curriculum is developed around our “Give Me Five” philosophy. As we seek to develop the whole child, this philosophy outlines the five domains we seek to grow in every student: spiritual, EEC students are assessed through observation, classroom work, and age-appropriate verbal and hands-on evaluation. Progress reports are issued at the end of the first and third marking periods, observation reports are issued at the end of the second and fourth marking periods, and teachers are available for conferences throughout the entire school year. Programs: Each level of our preschool program has an interactive curriculum which is comprised of developmentally appropriate academic and social readiness skills developed through cooperative play, theme-based small and large group instruction, and hands-on discovery. Pennsylvania State Standards for Early Learning are an integral part of our curriculum development, and are then taken a step higher, as truth is taught. Our teachers help their students begin to develop a biblical worldview, as we strive for our children to not just be informed of God’s Word, but to be transformed by it. Parents have the choice of: Jumpers (age 2 by October 31) the 2013-2014 age requirement will be age 2 before September 1 Two mornings (T/Th or M/W 8:15 -11:15 AM) Hoppers (age 3 by October 31 or age 4 on or after September 1, and potty trained) the 2013-2014 age requirement will be age 3 before September 1 or age 4 on or after September 1 Two mornings (T/Th 8:15-11:15AM) Three mornings (M/W/F 8:15-11:15AM) Five mornings (8:15 -11:15 AM) Three full days (M/W/F 8:15 AM - 3:15PM) Five full days (8:15AM-3:15PM) Leapers (age 4 before September 1st, and potty trained) Two mornings (T/Th 8:15-11:15AM) Three mornings (M/W/F 8:15-11:15AM) Five mornings (8:15 -11:15 AM) Three full days (M/W/F 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM) Five full days (8:15AM-3:15PM) See “Special Programs” section for more information on Extended Care and Summer Camps for preschoolers. 6 Elementary (K – 5th) Elementary Curriculum & Grading Scale The core subjects of the elementary curriculum include language arts which strongly emphasizes phonics and comprehension, math, social studies, science and Bible. The students are also instructed in Spanish, art, music (vocal and instrumental), computer, library skills and physical education. The letter grades (A 94-100, B 85-93, C 76-84, D 70-75, F 0-69) will be given for reading, English, math, science, social studies, spelling and Bible. Students in grades K, 1 and 2 will receive “O, S, I, N, and U” for science and social studies. Students in grades 1-5 will receive “O, S, I, N, and U” for Handwriting. Art, physical education, music, and computer for grades K-5 will be evaluated with an “O, S, I, N, and U” : O S I 100-90 Outstanding 89-76 Satisfactory 75-74 Improving N U 73-70 69-0 Needs Improvement Unsatisfactory Accelerated Reader and Accelerated Math The Accelerated Reader and Accelerated Math programs challenge students at all levels. Gifted students may receive a greater independent challenge, while those catching-up feel successful with their own goals. Accelerated Math enhances the math curriculum for our second through fifth graders. See “Special Programs” section for more information on Discovery Center, Resource Room, Extended Care and Summer Camps. Extra-Curricular Activities for Elementary Our school offers a wide array of programs to support and encourage student interests. Band Geography Bee ACSI Spelling Bee String Ensemble Community Service Drama Team End-of-year field day Speech Meet End-of-year picnic Math Olympics Athletics Elementary (Grades 3-5) Girls Intramural sports throughout the year include: Soccer, Basketball, Track and Field, Volleyball Boys Intramural sports throughout the year include: Soccer, Basketball, Track and Field, Volleyball 7 Middle School (grades 6-8) “We have total peace when sending our kids to school every morning, knowing that this is the place where they will be directed in the right path.” ~JM Middle School Curriculum Middle school students study Bible, language arts (English & literature), math, science, and social studies as required major courses. Required minor courses include art, computer, health, homeskills (sewing, cooking, wood working), choir, Spanish, and physical education. Optional minors are band and drama. Middle School Grading Scale A 94-100 B 85-93 C 76-84 D 70-75 F 0-69 Distinguished honor roll—All grades 94% and above Honor roll—All grades 85% and above See “Special Programs” section for more information on Discovery Center, Resource Room, and Summer “Give-Back” Camps Extra-Curricular Activities Our school offers a wide array of programs to support and encourage student interests. ACSI Leadership Conference Bible Quizzing Math Olympics Band Drama Team Outreach Projects Choir Fine Arts Festival Science Project Presentations Geography Bee Athletics Girls Fall ~ Volleyball, Soccer Winter ~ Basketball, Cheerleading Spring ~ Track Boys Fall ~ Soccer Winter ~ Basketball Spring ~ Baseball, Track 8 High School (grades 9-12) “As for our high school son making the adjustment to CSY, I couldn't be happier. I honestly cannot believe the fabulous welcome your students and faculty have given him. I have neither heard nor seen so many wonderful young people be so kind to a new student. Many of them introduced themselves and are still asking him how he likes it there and that it's so great to have him.” ~MW High School Curriculum Most high school students pursue a college preparatory sequence which includes: Bible 4.0 credits (1.0 credit per year enrollment at CSY) English 4.0 credits Social Studies 4.0 credits Mathematics 3.0 credits Science 3.0 credits Physical Education/ Health 2.5 credits (excused for participation in high school sports) Fine Arts or Technology 2.0 credits Electives 4.0 credits Total 26.5 credits Science Electives: Chemistry, Chemistry in the Community, Biology II, and Physics Math Electives: Consumer Math, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Algebra III & Trig., Accounting, and Calculus Honors Courses: AP English 11, AP English 12 Foreign Languages: Spanish I, II, III and IV Social Science Electives: Psychology Computer Electives: Computer Applications, Graphic Design I and II, Animation, and Multimedia Music/Worship Electives: Band, Choir, Drama Art Electives: Art I, Studio Art General Electives: Yearbook, Library Science, Teacher Apprentice Our high school students may take a wide variety of electives through North Dakota Long Distance Learning (see below). High School Grading Scale A 94-100 C 76-84 B 85-93 D 70-75 Distinguished honor roll—All grades 94% and above Honor roll—All grades 85% and above F 0-69 On-line Learning ~ North Dakota Christian School of York has partnered with University of North Dakota Long Distance Learning in order to enhance our academic program. Students may request remedial or advanced courses. This allows students who are concentrating on specialized fields to choose advanced classes (i.e. Latin for a student planning on going into medicine). There may be an extra charge for some courses. Only courses not offered at CSY may be taken through North Dakota. Community Service Program “I learned that volunteering can be an exciting, enjoyable, growing experience, although I was nervous at first. It is truly gratifying to serve a cause, live out my beliefs, work with people, solve problems, see benefits, and know I had a hand in them.” 9 In an effort to develop the habits which produce a life filled with service to others, CSY instituted a program of Community Service that will have high school students serve their community. Each student is required to individually perform 20 hours of non-remunerated service per year of HS attendance at some point during their high school years. Upon completion of the service project(s), students will also be required to complete a paper containing reflections on what they have experienced during their service to the community. International Student Program “My point in writing is simply, whatever my wife and I can do to help encourage other families to receive the blessing of an international student we will do. We cannot emphasize this too much. To expand from the Genesis 12 theme, we have been blessed to be a blessing and as a result have been further blessed.” ~WB Christian School of York welcomes the opportunity to share Christ with the world through our international student program. The Lord has done amazing things through students who come here not even knowing who Jesus is. Many come to know the Lord while they are here, and take Him back to their families, friends and communities. Christian School of York is registered through the Department of Homeland Security to provide I-20s for international students. Students must be qualified through a foreign exchange agency. First-year foreign exchange students may not graduate from CSY. Qualified returning students who have met their requirements may graduate upon completion of their senior year. Extra-Curricular Activities Our school offers a wide array of programs to support and encourage student interests. ACSI Leadership Conference Bible Quizzing National Honor Society Outreach Band Class Government Projects Choir, district and regional spring Drama Team Student Senate Crusader Singers Fine Arts Festival Worship Team Athletics Girls Fall ~ Cross country, Volleyball, Golf, Soccer Winter ~ Basketball, Cheerleading, Indoor Track Spring ~ Track Boys Fall ~ Cross country, Golf, Soccer Winter ~ Basketball, Indoor Track Spring ~ Baseball, Track 10 Special Programs Discovery Center (Accredited through NILD) “I have been going to CSY for two years now. The school is a fascinating place. It is not a perfect school, but it is an excellent school with solid Christian teachings that are good to have in today’s society. The Resource Room and Discovery Center help me get support with the subjects where I need it. Another positive is that this school has teachers who really care for their students. They aren’t here for a paycheck, they’re here for us.” ~AS In the Discovery Center, educational therapy is given to students grades K – 12 with a diagnosed learning disability. The program is designed for the student with average to above-average intelligence with challenges in certain areas of learning. Each student’s learning strengths and weaknesses are assessed. When the deficit areas are isolated, an individualized approach is designed to exercise and develop the deficit learning channel. An educational therapist works one-on-one with a student for 180 minutes a week. The length of involvement for an individual student depends on the commitment of the family and the initiative of the student. Resource Room The Resource Room provides remedial instruction in the areas of mathematics and language arts. Students who have learning challenges that will require specialized techniques to adequately learn grade level basics benefit from this program. The Resource Room is also designed to minister to students who have changed schools and experience difficulty with curriculum. Our instructors work with small groups for two forty-minute units of instruction per week, per subject. An individual Resource Room option is also available if warranted. Students who need additional instruction benefit from this personalized approach. Gifted Program “Since both girls are quite bright, we wanted to ensure that they are challenged academically. At Christian School of York, they are both enrolled in a grade above their chronological age. Most importantly, though, we wanted them in an environment that would assist them with developing to their utmost potential, both academically and spiritually.” ~CC At Christian School of York we have daily programs to meet the needs of our gifted students. The Accelerated Reader Program challenges elementary students at all levels. Accelerated Math enhances the math curriculum for our second through fifth graders. These are two examples of how CSY meets the unique needs of all of our students. Gifted students soar at their own pace in these programs. Small class sizes allow our teachers to get to know each student personally and meet their unique needs whether in the EEC, elementary, middle school or high school. CSY has many gifted students enrolled who do feel challenged and make the most of the extraordinary abilities the Lord has given them. High school student have opportunities for a Christian online learning for advanced courses. We have working arrangements with local colleges for our students to dual enroll and begin earning college credits. We have AP Courses and often student have done independent studies with our faculty. A specialist from the intermediate unit comes to work one-on-one with students who are determined to be gifted and need an extra challenge. Lincoln Intermediate Unit #12 Services Services from LIU (at no charge to the parents) include psychological academic testing, speech therapy, gifted support and ESL). Should a child have identified needs or a parent has concerns, our Discovery Center is topnotch in determining the child’s strengths and deficits. The Discovery Center Staff works with LIU to do a battery of academic and psychological academic testing. Students who need (or are suspected to need) speech therapy will have testing and services provided to them free of charge at CSY by the Intermediate Unit clinician. A specialist from the intermediate unit comes to work one-on-one with students who need extra help, an extra challenge, speech therapy or ESL (English as a Second Language). 11 Extended Care Extended Care is designed to provide an affordable and safe environment that meets the need of our school families. This program is designed for students from three years old through 5th grade (older students at the discretion of administration). Extended Care is offered from 7:00 AM until the beginning of the school day and 3:30-6:00 PM. Please consult Extended Care handbook for details. Summer Camp (age 3* – grade 7) Parents can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that their child is spending their day in a wholesome, engaging and safe atmosphere. Our caring camp staff is screened, trained, committed followers of Christ who will not only lead your camper in many exciting summer adventures, but provide a safe, loving environment where your child will grow spiritually, cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically. *All children, 3 and up, must be potty trained 12 Admissions FAQs Is there bus transportation? Districts within a certain radius of CSY provide transportation at no charge to the parent. These districts include: Central Eastern Red Lion West Shore Dallastown Northeastern Spring Grove West York Dover Northern Suburban As a service to our parents, Christian School of York offers transportation to families in Southern York County, York City, and the Hanover area. A monthly transportation fee helps to defray the cost of this service. Please be informed that: 1. Parents need to check with their district regarding transportation of children younger than five. 2. York City school district does not provide transportation; however CSY provides van service as necessary. What are the academic school hours and calendar year? Homeroom starts promptly at 8:15 AM and dismissal of bus students begins at 3:05 PM. The academic year runs from approximately August 31 through June 1st. Do you have extended care or summer programs for working parents? Yes, we do have care from 7:00 AM through 6:00 PM (ages 3 – grade 5) and summer camps to bridge the gap for working parents of students age 3 through grade 7. Is Christian School of York accredited? Will colleges honor a CSY graduation diploma? Absolutely! We are fully accredited and our students are accepted to and often attend the college or university of their choice. Do you have a “gifted program”? At Christian School of York we have daily programs to meet the needs of our gifted students. The Accelerated Reader Program challenges elementary students at all levels. Accelerated Math enhances the math curriculum for our second through fifth graders. These are two examples of how CSY meets the unique needs of all of our students. Gifted students soar at their own pace in these programs. Small class sizes allow our teachers to get to know each student personally and meet their unique needs whether in the EEC, elementary, middle school or high school. CSY has many gifted students enrolled who do feel challenged and make the most of the extraordinary abilities the Lord has given them. High school students have opportunities for Christian online learning for advanced courses. We have working arrangements with local colleges for our students to dual enroll and begin earning college credits. We have AP Courses and often students have done independent studies with our faculty. A specialist from the intermediate unit comes to work one-on-one with students who are determined to be gifted and need an extra challenge. What if my child has special learning needs, has an IEP at his public school or needs speech therapy? Should a child have identified needs or a parent has concerns, our Discovery Center is top-notch in determining the child’s strengths and deficits. Most parents agree that their child’s needs are met more accurately here than they were through their IEP. Students who need (or are suspected to need) speech therapy will have those services provided to them free of charge at CSY by the Intermediate Unit clinician. A specialist from the intermediate unit comes to work one-on-one with students who need extra help or an extra challenge. 13 Admission Process Applications Our application can now be completed online! You may access the application from the admissions tab on our website www.csyonline.com. Acceptance In order for families to be accepted to Christian School of York, at least one parent must be a born-again Christian and have committed to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Parents must be in agreement with our Basis of Faith and our Parents’ Pledge statement. (See Basis of Faith and Parents’ Pledge) The family must be active in a church and express an understanding that educating a child requires a strong foundation in the areas of church, home and school. Student Testing After receipt of the application package, standardized testing will be administered to students (kindergarten– grade 11). This ensures proper placement of each child. The staff must feel confident that Christian School of York can meet the needs of each child before recommending acceptance. Kindergarten & 1st – Developmental Readiness Scale (DRS) Grades 2-11– Abbreviated Stanford Achievement Test & writing sample (if needed) Student Interview (grades 6 - 12) A student interview will be set up for the prospective student with the Secondary Principal. Through understanding of a student’s strengths and weaknesses, a smooth transition and successful educational experience is expected. Parent Interview A parent interview will be set up with an administrator. This will provide the opportunity to confirm that the family fulfills the Association requirements. It also gives the parents the opportunity to ask final questions to confirm that the school is the right fit for their family. Mid-Year Admissions Christian School of York welcomes mid-year enrollment for students moving into the area. However, the school closely examines transfers from local schools during the school year. Mid-year application takes approximately two weeks. If a student enters after the school year has begun, tuition is prorated according to the actual number of days enrolled. Not All Students and Families are Accepted Please do not withdraw your students from their current program until you have received an official acceptance letter from Christian School of York. Probationary Period All new students are on a nine-week probationary period. During that probationary period their academic performance, behavior, attitude and influence on others are evaluated by the faculty and administrative staff. Parents will be notified of major problems or concerns. Non-evidence of parental support could also be a factor. A student may be dismissed, asked to withdraw or expelled at any time if there are concerns that are not resolved. 14 Non-Discrimination Policy Christian School of York admits students of any race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin in the administration of the educational and admissions policies, scholarship programs, athletic and any school programs. All students are encouraged to participate in a variety of programs and activities. We believe CSY to be a school where all students can find a place to belong! Fees and Affordability (2012 - 2013) “The question isn’t ‘Can we afford it?’ The question is ‘Can we afford not to?’ Christian education is not an expense; it’s an investment!” ~ KM Application Fee The $40 fee per student is due at the time of application. This fee is non-refundable. Enrollment Fee After a family has been accepted, they will pay a $185 enrollment fee per student (non-refundable). If a family applies before April 13, they will receive a $100 early application discount. If they apply after June 30 there is a $100 late fee added to the $185 enrollment fee per student. Tuition Deposit With the enrollment fee, a non-refundable tuition deposit must be made of $100 for the first student and $50 for each additional student. The tuition deposit will be deducted from the yearly tuition billed. Association Fee The Association fee of $25 per family is due at the time of enrollment. All families are members of the Association that owns and operates the school. Please see Association. Affordability Christian School of York successfully strives to provide an outstanding academic education while maintaining affordable tuition. In comparison to other private schools in the region with similar programs and high academic standards, our tuition is extremely reasonable. Because our families understand the importance of investing in their children and their need for a Christian education, they are willing to do what is necessary financially. Tuition itself covers only a portion of the cost of educating each child. We are often blessed with additional gifts to cover the balance of expenses. These expenses are covered in part by generous families who give above and beyond tuition as they feel the Lord’s leading. Tuition Assistance Need-based assistance is available for qualified applicants. Upon application to Christian School of York, an assessment of need may be made through FACTS, an independent financial assessment agency. This will determine those who qualify and the amount of assistance provided. CSY does not recommend assistance that 15 exceeds 50% of tuition cost unless there are extensive circumstances demonstrating a greater need. Many school families find this program beneficial in making Christian School of York affordable. If you would like more information about the qualification process, please call Alison Feder at 717-7676842 ext. 225 or Christine Ingari at 717-767-6842 ext. 236. Christian School of York cannot determine tuition assistance before we have received the student application and application fee. Gifts & Tithes The tuition at Christian School of York is actually a significantly reduced amount below the cost of education. In order to meet our budget, we rely heavily upon gifts. A great effort is made to keep our spending as low as possible, while providing an outstanding education for all of our students. We ask families to pray for the school and its financial needs. There are many ways parents can help: 1. 2. 3. 4. Giving gifts above tuition Encouraging others to give Participating in business education tax credits (EITC program) Encouraging other families to enroll their students Delinquent Tuition Accounts Parents must pay all fees owed at other private schools before being enrolled at Christian School of York. All CSY fees and tuition must be current for re-enrollment to Christian School of York. Transportation Fee Many of our students are transported by local public school districts. Central, Dallastown, Dover, Eastern, Northeastern, Northern, Red Lion, Spring Grove, Suburban, West Shore, and West York provide busing for our students. Typically no busing is provided for PreK students. You may want to check with your school district for age requirements. Christian School of York provides transportation to serve the Hanover area, southern York County and York city. Parents whose children benefit from this service pay a monthly fee to defer the cost of this transportation. Payment of Fees Tuition, Discovery Center, Resource Room, and transportation fees may be paid in one of the following three methods: 1. Annually by July 1 (or within 5 days of receipt of acceptance letter) with a 1.5% discount; 2. By semester with half of the tuition due by July 1 (or within 5 days of receipt of acceptance letter) and the other half due on December 1 with a .5% discount; 3. Monthly via the FACTS Tuition Management Program (automatic withdraw set-up fee). Delinquent Accounts at CSY If a family falls two months behind in tuition payments, the children from the family may be denied admission. The headmaster may decide to allow children to continue to attend school if the family keeps in contact with the school, makes regular good faith payments, and demonstrates in the near future potential to become current with their tuition account. There is a charge for late payments and a collection agency may be used for delinquent accounts. Mid-Year Withdrawals When a student withdraws during a fiscal school year (July 1 – June 30), 30-day written notice must be given to the Admissions Office. Days previously enrolled plus all school days in the 30-days notice will be assessed (whether attended or not). Also a one-month (1/12 annual tuition) withdrawal charge will be assessed. Records will not be released until all financial obligations to the school are met. 16