HFWA Handbook

PARENT HANDBOOK

ANTHOL ROAD RIDGELAND PARK, WEST

P.O.BOX SS-6973 NASSAU, BAHAMAS

TEL: (242) 356-2347

FAX: (242) 323-7637

Email:

[email protected]

Website: www.hfwacademy.org;

www.robinsonmorrisame.org

LETTER FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR

Dear Parents/Guardians:

On behalf of the Board of Directors, our Pre-School

Teachers, and Staff of the H. F. Williamson Academy

of Excellence (the former Robinson-Morris Academy),

we express our sincerest thanks to you for choosing our

institution to begin your child’s early education. We are

more than happy to be a part of this developmental process.

The H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence will go the

extra mile in Teaching, Training, Nurturing, and Caring

for your boys and girls so that they can become productive

Citizens in this modern day society.

The H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence will focus

highly on your child’s Spiritual, Educational, Social,

Physical, Emotional and Psychological life.

So, once again we thank you for choosing our institution

and for allowing us to assist and care for your child.

Sincerely,

_________________________________

REV. HOWARD F. WILLIAMSON

ADMINISTRATOR

BOYS: Bright Orange Uniform or Polo Shirt, Navy Blue Pants - Short or

Long. Black or Brown Shoes, Black or Blue Socks. School Crest on pocket

(when available).

GIRLS: Bright Orange Blouse Peter Pan Collar or Polo Shirt, Navy Blue

Skort, Brown or Black Shoes, Blue or Black Socks. School Crest on pocket

(when available).

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A CHILD’S BELIEF I believe in God the Father, who made us every one; who made the earth

and heaven, the moon, the stars, the sun. All that we have each day, to us

by Him is given. We call Him when we pray, Our Father God in Heaven.

APPOINTMENTS AND INTERVIEWS

If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child, please contact

the school’s office, the teacher or administrator for further information.

Parents are asked to address any and all grievances in the privacy of the

Administrator’s Office and not in the front of students, other parents or

teachers. Parents will be asked to meet individually with their child’s

teacher to discuss his/her progress during the school year.

IMMUNIZATION CARD

Parents are to make sure that their child’s Immunization card is up-to-date.

Bring this card to the office for the school’s Nurse to check.

GUIDELINE FOR TODDLERS

Parents/Guardian are to bring the following items

along with their children:

TODDLERS

1. TOWEL

2. PULL-UP/PAMPERS

3. CHANGE OF CLOTHES

4. BABY WIPES

5. SOAP & WASH CLOTHES

6. FOOD, SNACKS & FRUITS

7. JUICE

8. WATER

TWO YEAR OLDS

1. LARGE TOWEL

2. 1 PULL-UP

3. CHANGE OF CLOTHING

4. 2 PANTIES/JOCKIES

5. BABY WIPES

6. HAND SANITIZER

7. SOAP & WASH CLOTHES

8. JUICE, FOOD, SNACKS & FRUITS

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HISTORY

In September 1993, a small institution located in Ridgeland Park, West, opened its doors to the Bahamian public and gave birth to what was known as The Robinson-Morris Academy, Pre-School and Nursery.

During its first months of operation, approximately fourteen stu-dents were enrolled with two teachers. Since then, our institu-tion has grown tremendously. To God we give all honor, glory, and praise.

In the year 2006, the Robinson-Morris Chapel Church Family, and the Board of Directors, decided to change the school’s name to the H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence.

The H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence is a Church related institution, registered with the Ministry of Education and Culture. It is operated by a Board of Directors from the Church.

Our curriculum is in keeping with the guidelines of the Pre-School Curriculum of the Ministry of Education .

Presently, we are constructing a new Pre-school facility (that is well on the way) which will cater to students from Toddlers through Grade 6. Through the dedication and commitment of the individuals connected with the H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence, we believe that the work we have started will con-tinue to be fruitful. With this in mind, we are determined to make this institution a premier in Early Childhood Development in this region.

OUR VISION STATEMENT

To Teach, Train, Educate, and Nurture our students, in ac-cordance with the word of God, to become productive and suc-cessful citizens.

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OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence Pre-School is based on the promise that children learn by doing. We provide stimulat-ing, exciting experiences and a warm supportive environment so that students will increase their awareness, develop sensitivity to themselves and others, and learn to solve problems creatively.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

We believe that children should be in a loving, caring, and stimulating environment that actively allows them to con-tribute to their own learning. We ensure that each student is supported and that he/she increases his/her awareness while developing sensitivity to themselves and others; so they are able to solver problems creatively.

At H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence, children are val-ued as individuals, within the context of their families and communities. We seek to provide an appropriate and se-cure environment that will nurture and build their self-esteem.

OUR GOALS

1. To present a curriculum, which provides a solid foundation in

Christian behaviors, principles and thinking in the Cognitive

and Affective Domains.

2. To establish Christian patterns of thinking behavior.

3. To establish united, strong and loving Christian homes and fami-

lies in the Bahamas.

4. To be a living demonstration by word and deed in this commu-

nity; whereby all students and teachers demonstrate the love of

Jesus Christ, for each other and for the world.

5. Strive to maintain the highest degree of academic excellence to

enable students to contribute to the general welfare of the

Bahamian society and to the betterment of humankind as a

whole.

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HOMEWORK/MEALS

1. Homework should be signed (in ink) by Parent/Guardian.

2. Lunch is to be provided by parents. Hot Lunch will be available at

School on Fridays, only. Chips are not allowed in school. We

suggest that parents pack a nutritious lunch for their child/ren.

3. Breakfast is served daily for the price of $1.00. Hot Lunch is also

served Daily (cost is $3.00).

TARDINESS

Promptness is a valuable character quality. Students are expected to be

on time for school. Breakfast is served between 7:30am - 8:30am

daily. Classes begin promptly at 9:00am.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Here at H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence we look for ways to

enhance the whole child. Besides the normal work and play, we have

Computer Classes for K-3 to K-5 students, Ballet and Karate.

THE ROLE OF THE TEACHERS

The teachers are there to relate to the whole child: physically, spiritu-

ally, and mentally. Their job is to teach, train, nurture, love, and care,

for students as though they were their very own; imparting to them all

the knowledge they possess.

SCHOOL PRAYER

Two little eyes to look to God, Two little ears to hear his words

Two little lips to sing his praise, Two little feet to walk in his way

Two little hands to do his will, And one little heart to love Him still. Amen.

SCHOOL SONG

We are happy, happy students of H. F. Williamson Academy School.

Happy boys we are, Merry girls we are, of H. F. Williamson Academy

School.

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TODDLERS - School P. E. Kits - Bright Orange T-Shirt/Navy Blue

Pants.

A. Students are required to wear the prescribed uniform at all times,

unless specified by the school. No excuse will be accepted without

written explanation from parents. (For students in all grades). Parents

are strongly advised to adhere to the School’s Rules.

B. On cold days, students should wear Navy Blue or Black sweaters or

jackets. Girls may wear tights under their Scorts, warm-up suits

also may be worn over P. E. Uniforms.

C. Tennis-Shoes should be worn with P. E. Uniform only.

D. Clogs and sandals are NOT allowed.

VISITORS ON CAMPUS

Any person wishing to see a student, for any reason, during school hours

must first obtain permission from the Administrator or Director. Parents

/Friends are not allowed in the classroom once classes have begun.

MEDICATION/SICKNESS

We expect all students to be in school unless they are sick or have an

emergency. No Teacher is allowed to administer medication that is

bought over-the -counter to students. If a child has a Bad Cold or

Cough, High Fever, Chicken Pox, or Diarrhea, they are to be kept at

home until they are well enough to attend school. If a child is absent, the

parents are expected to send a WRITTEN EXPLANATION to the

teacher or office personnel, or call and inform the office.

ACCIDENT AND ILLNESS

If a student is not covered by the schools’ insurance plan, the school

will accept no responsibility for accidents in route to or from school.

Students are supervised on the campus and as much as possible, hazard

is eliminated. In case of an emergency, the parents will be contacted by

the school. All parents, are asked to complete the Insurance Form and

submit it with the payment to ensure that your child is covered.

PARENTAL/FAMILY DISPUTES

Unless there is document stating that a child is not be collected by a cer-

tain parent, the school will not become involved with disputes between

parents. Please note that only persons listed on the registration form

will be allowed to collect a student.

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6. To encourage and prepare students to fulfill the principal tasks in

life; namely to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.

7. To encourage the growth of creative expression.

8. To encourage the development of skills for self-expression and

creativity in art forms.

9. To encourage children to find beauty in the every day environ-

ment, to bring that beauty to the classroom, and to share it with

others.

10. To encourage the development of skills for expressive arts

(music, art, drama,) as a natural means of expression, as commu-

nication, and as an integral part of the school day.

11. To provide an environment which fosters and respects a child’s

interest, ability and innate creativity.

12. To assist the child by being a guide and helper, and one who

suggests ideas and experiences without modeling.

13. Developing a sound early education through basic structured

learning skills.

OUR PARENTS

Parents are expected to:

Attend Parents and Teachers’ Association (PTA) Meetings.

Become involved by volunteering and visiting the classroom.

Support Fundraising and extra-curricular activities of the

school.

Attend Programmes, Open-house and the Closing Ceremony.

Encourage and discuss their child’s learning.

Co-operate with the policies and guidelines of the school.

Exhibit appropriate behavior within the school compound.

Properly prepare their pre-schooler for school.

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JEWELRY

Students are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

A. Expensive jewelry must not be worn to school. H. F. Williamson

Academy of Excellence will not accept responsibility for the loss

of such items.

B. Girls having pierced ears may ONLY wear small gold or silver

knobs.

C. Boys are NOT allowed to wear any form of earring on campus or at

any school function.

D. Students are NOT allowed to wear any heavy necklace, bangles,

bracelets, ankle chains OR HAIR BEADS. (They will be

removed). The School will not be held responsible.

ANTI-UNIFORM DAYS

Occasionally, during each term, students will be given the opportunity

to attend school out of uniform.

Those wishing to participate will be asked to purchase an anti-uniform

ticket costing $3.00. In such cases a memo will be sent home in ad-

vance with the necessary information. Students are expected to wear

appropriate and modest clothing.

P. E. UNIFORM

These may be purchased at the school’s office between the hours of

8:00a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday & Tuesday or 8:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.,

Wednesday - Friday. The cost is $30.00. P.E. Uniforms are to be

worn everyday for the Toddlers; and on Fridays and during field

trips for K2 to K5.

UNIFORM GUIDELINES

BOYS: Bright Orange Uniform or Polo Shirt, Navy Blue Pants - Short

or Long. Black or Brown Shoes, Black or Blue Socks. School Crest on

pocket (when available).

GIRLS: Bright Orange Blouse Peter Pan Collar or Polo Shirt, Navy

Blue Skort, Brown or Black Shoes, Black or Blue Socks. School Crest

on pocket (when available).

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THE SCHOOL HOURS

Pre-school hours for Toddlers - K5 are from 8:00a.m. – 3:00 p.m.,

Monday through Friday. Parents are encouraged to pick up their

child/children on time. Any child that is left on the school’s campus

after 4:00p.m. will be required to pay a late fee of $15.00 for the

first half hour, and $5.00 for every 15 minutes. This fee will be

added to your child’s account. Failure to pay late fees will result in

students being suspended from school. Chronic or continual late pick-

ups could result in students being dismissed from the school. To avoid

conflicts, please collect your child/ren on time. NO TEACHER IS

ALLOWED TO TAKE A STUDENT HOME.

BOOKS & SUPPLIES

Students are required to have all of the required textbooks, workbooks

and supplies on or before the opening day of school. Parents or Guardi-

ans are responsible for supplying these. Please check periodically to see

which materials need replacing.

CHANGE OF CONTACT INFORMATION

Parents are asked to inform the School’s Office immediately, in writing,

of any change of name, address or telephone numbers. The school must

have a contact number in case of an emergency, also the contact infor-

mation of the person(s) responsible for picking up child/children.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE

If a parent wishes to have a conference with their child’s teacher, the

principal or the administrator, they should call the office to arrange a

meeting. The Office will notify the teacher then contact the parent to

arrange an appropriate time. Parents should also feel free to contact the

administrator anytime a problem warrants their attention. Good com-

munication is the key to successful relationship between student,

teacher and parent.

DISCIPLINE

Teachers are not allowed to spank students. However, they are allowed

to discipline them by giving them a ‘time-out’, or by excluding them

from playtime or field trips. Parents are to instill godly morals and

good behavior in their children so they may bloom.

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GUIDELINES AND POLICIES

OF

H. F. WILLIAMSON

ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE

Updated August 2014

APPLICATION FORMS

These are available at the School’s Office and are not allowed to leave

the Office.

REGISTRATION FEES

A $35.00 registration fee is required of all new students and $25.00 for

returning students at the H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence

Pre-School and Toddlers. This fee is non-refundable, non-

transferable, and non-deductible.

TUITION FEES

Here at H. F. Williamson Academy of Excellence, we do our best to

keep Tuition costs low. The School does not receive Governmental

Funding and is not endowed by outside organizations. Prompt payment

of Tuition is essential to the ongoing operation of the school. Payments

for tuition will be collected at the school’s office at THE BEGIN-

NING OF EACH MONTH (First Monday). For parents who wish to

pay by the term, tuition will be collected at THE BEGINNING OF

EACH TERM.

By enrolling their child/dependant at H. F. Williamson Academy, Par-

ents and guardians accept and agree to the following:

School fees are due on the first Monday of every month and must

be paid in order for students to be accepted into school for that

month.

If School fees are not paid by the due date or by the end of any

grace period (if offered), the school reserves the right to place such

students on Financial Suspension until outstanding school fees are

paid in full.

Once a student is placed on Financial Suspension, they are to be

kept at home until removed from suspension.

The school fee is a monthly fee and school closures (Mid-term,

Easter-break, holidays, etc.), absenteeism or sickness will not re-

duce this fee.

A discount of five percent (5%) is applied to the tuition of a second

child. Fees are non-refundable, non-transferable and non-

deductible.

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THE PRE-SCHOOL RATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

TODDLERS MONTHLY……………………….. $200.00 (15 Months - 2 yrs) TERM 1…………………………... $800 - September - December TERM 2…………………………... $600 - January - March TERM 3…………………………... $600 - April - June

K-2, K-3 & K-4 MONTHLY……………………….. $160 TERM 1…………………………... $640 - September - December TERM 2…………………………... $480 - January - March TERM 3…………………………... $480 - April - June

K-5 MONTHLY……………………….. $180 TERM 1…………………………... $720 - September - December TERM 2…………………………... $540 - January - March TERM 3…………………………... $540 - April - June

RETURNED CHEQUES

May result in any or all of the following:

A. $20.00 service charge.

B. All future payments must be in cash or as a certified

cheque.

REFUND

There are no refunds if the child is absent or is removed from

school before the end of term or month.

OFFICE HOURS

Monday & Tuesday - 8:00am - 4:00pm

Wednesday - Friday - 8:30am - 4:30pm

TELEPHONE

Our office telephone number is 356-2347; Fax: 323-7637. Students are

not allowed to use the telephone, except in cases of emergency. There-

fore, transportation and lunch should be planned in advance.

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