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Introduction
The purpose of this handbook is to familiarize students, parents, and others with the philosophy,
mission, policies, and practice of Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School. It is intended primarily as
a guide to student life at MVLHS. Prospective students and their parents will also want to make a
thorough study of this handbook. All inquiries or questions should be addressed to the Principal or
Dean of Students.
Statement of Ownership
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is owned and operated by the Minnesota Valley Lutheran
High School Association, an organization of Lutheran congregations of the Wisconsin Evangelical
Lutheran Synod (WELS) and the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS) that share a common
confessional belief and practice.
Purpose of the MVL Association
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School was established by the MVLHSA to provide young people a
full-time Christian education through the high school years. MVL’s philosophy of education and its
practice and policies are based upon the Holy Scriptures as the inerrant Word of God and centers in
Jesus Christ to whom all the Scriptures bear witness. In this Christian setting young people are
encouraged by the power and grace of God’s Word to submit in grateful obedience to Christ Jesus
as Savior and to grow in a life of joyful service to Jesus as Lord. Parents who enroll students should
be aware of this Scriptural position and confessional stance, and that by enrolling their children they
are placing them under its religious instruction.
Philosophy of Education
All programs or activities at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School have as their foundation the
inerrant Word of God.
Mission of MVL
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School uses God’s Word in a Christ-centered education to assist
families in training students for Christian lives on earth and for eternity.
MNSAA Membership (Accreditation)
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is fully accredited with the Minnesota Nonpublic School
Accrediting Association (MNSAA). MNSAA is an accrediting agency recognized by the State of
Minnesota and a member of the National Federation of Nonpublic School State Accrediting
Association.
MISF Membership
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is a member of MISF (Minnesota Independent School
Forum). The Minnesota Independent School Forum is a collaborative enterprise of leaders from the
business, civic, education, and philanthropic communities who share a common interest in providing
greater educational opportunities for a diverse group of students in member schools. The mission of
the Forum is to be a catalyst for enhancing quality in independent secondary education in
Minnesota.
Educational Objectives
1. To strengthen the Christian faith and commitment of the student by encouraging faithful use of
the Word of God and Sacrament of the Altar.
2. To increase the student’s knowledge and understanding of God’s Word.
3. To develop a zeal for the promotion of God’s kingdom through mission work both as students
and later in their lives.
4. To foster a spirit of love and obedience toward God’s representatives in the home, church,
school, and government.
5. To bring the student to depend on God’s Word as the only approach to academic pursuit and
the answer to all problems in life.
6. To cultivate an awareness in the student of his/her God-given talents and abilities and to use
them to His glory and for the welfare of mankind.
7. To adequately prepare the student academically and physically that he/she may develop into
an alert, responsive Christian citizen, serving God and his/her fellowman as a demonstration of
his/her sanctified life.
PSEO Policy
MVL does participate in the Post Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) program. Inquiries should
be directed to the Principal.
Statement of Fellowship
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School reflects the confessional stand of its member congregations
by:
a) Admitting to the Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School Association membership
those congregations that are in fellowship with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod.
b) Calling teachers who are of our fellowship.
c) Having its choirs and other musical groups perform sacred music in those
congregations that are in fellowship with us.
Students who are not members of Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod or Evangelical Lutheran
Synod congregations will be allowed to perform group sacred music and participate in chapel
services under the direction and guidance of our teachers but will not be eligible for leadership roles
in any spiritual activity.
Academic Calendar
The academic calendar is printed with this handbook. Please attempt to schedule appointments
(i.e. dental, eye) on days when there is no school. Visits to prospective college/vocational schools
are also to be arranged at times such as fall teachers’ conference, February in-service days, or
other days when there is no school scheduled.
Admissions Policy
While Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is maintained primarily for students who belong to the
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School Association congregations, we also recognize the fact “that
God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him” (Acts 10:34-35).
Therefore, Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School admits students of any race, color, national and
ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to
students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin
in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs,
and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Tuition and Fees
The cost of offering the ministry of secondary Christian education at MVL is met through
contributions from congregations and individuals, special gifts, third source funding, as well as
tuition and fees. Parents are offered a variety of payment plans by which they can pay the tuition
and fees for the children they have received from the Lord. Details on these plans are available
from our Financial Secretary or Superintendent.
When tuition and fees are over 30 days past due – based on the payment plan selected - an interest
charge is added to the account. The rate is 18% per annum, which is 2/3 of 1.5% per month.
Students from families whose accounts are still in arrears by Orientation Day of a new school year
will not be permitted to enter the new school year unless their past due amounts accounts are paid
in full. Exceptions can be made only through direct appeal to the Finance Committee of the MVL
Board of Directors.
If a family has an outstanding balance and is making a request for grades and/or transcripts to be
transferred to a college or another school, they will be issued within 15 days, but if payment is not
made, a collection fee will be added to their bill and then it will be forwarded to a collection agency.
The collection fee is determined by the collection agency. Please note that at this time, the
collection fee is about 40% of the outstanding bill.
Student Aid
Parents of students who need financial assistance with tuition may apply for a student grant through
the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Application forms for a succeeding year are mailed to newly
registered freshmen and returning upper classmen in spring. Those not receiving an application
form may contact the school office. Completed forms are due in the school office by May 15th
.
The Student Financial Assistance Committee considers applications, determines need based on
information supplied by the applicants, and awards grants based on need and the funds available
for the program. The Student Financial Assistance Committee also administers grants to students
preparing for the pastoral or teaching ministry through the Melvin and Vivian Krohn Memorial
Endowment Funds as well as funds given for the Barnabas Project.
Some WELS/ELS congregations provide additional financial assistance to their members. Interested
parties should contact the pastor of the congregation.
Textbooks
All textbooks belong to either MVL or are provided through public school District 88. Books are
distributed at the beginning of the course and collected at the end of the course. Students will be
charged full replacement cost for lost textbooks or for those textbooks showing unusual wear or
damage. Bibles and hymnals are to be provided by the student.
Graduation Requirements
Forty-six or more credits (1 credit per semester per usual academic course) are required for
graduation and must include:
Religion 8 credits
English 8 credits
Social Studies 4 credits
Science 4 credits
Mathematics 4 credits
Fine Arts 3 credits
Physical Education 2 credits
Computers 2 credits
Health 1 credit
Electives 10 credits
Each student is to carry a full load of subjects, whether or not he/she needs the credits for
graduation. This means a minimum of six courses each semester including religion. Students are
permitted and encouraged to take more than six courses.
Students planning to enter post-secondary schools should plan their high school course of study
carefully in order to meet entrance requirements at post-secondary institutions. MVL offers courses
for anyone desiring to enter pastoral, teaching, or staff ministry programs at Martin Luther College.
MVL provides guidance, but final course selection responsibility rests with students and parents.
Students are required to take and pass a religion course each semester in attendance.
A semester exam may be required for students in some classes. The exams are scheduled during
the last week of each semester and weigh no more than 20% of the semester grade.
Drop-Add Policy
If a student wants to drop or add an elective course during the semester, the student needs to
obtain a Drop-Add Form from the Registrar. When all signatures are gathered the student is to
return the form to the Registrar. The Registrar will process the request and inform the student when
the schedule change will begin. Please not the following additional details:
• A course may only be added to the student’s schedule during the first eight days of the
semester.
• A course may be dropped during the first eight days of a semester and no permanent record
of the change is made. After the first eight days of the semester, if a student wishes to drop a
class the Drop-Add Form needs to be completed and returned to the Registrar. Parents are
encouraged to seek the advice of school personnel. If a course is dropped, the transcript will
indicate the course was dropped with a WP – withdraw pass or a WF – withdraw fail. WP
and WF are not used in calculating the GPA or in determining class rank.
• If it is noticed that a student has been incorrectly placed in a discipline with several entry
levels (e.g. Mathematics), then the student may be transferred to the appropriate course.
This course change shall be made in consultation with the student, the parents/guardian, and
the teachers of the courses, the Registrar and the student’s advisor.
Report Cards, Honor Roll, and Transcripts
A student's permanent records and transcripts are based on semester grades. However, a progress
report is sent to the parents at the end of each quarter. The quarter grades are used to determine
eligibility and honor roll status. Honor rolls are computed and published quarterly. Different levels
of honor are distinguished in the following manner:
Highest Honors: A = 3.84 - 4.00
High Honors: A- = 3.50 - 3.83
Honors: B+ = 3.17 - 3.49
Semester grades are the official grades of record. The cumulative academic GPA at the end of each
semester is used to determine class rank. The cumulative academic GPA is recorded on each
report card. Senior class academic honors, including valedictorian and salutatorian, are determined
by cumulative GPA's after eight semesters. All courses and grades are not weighted are used to
determine honor roll, class rank, and cumulative GPA.
MVL will send transcripts for students up to the time of graduation including one transcript within a
reasonable time after graduation. After that one, alumni are asked to pay a fee of $4.00 for each
additional transcript requested.
Guidance
Career guidance is available to students through regular faculty advisors and a guidance counselor.
This counseling offers the student assistance in academic program planning, course selection,
vocation choices, and entrance to college and trade schools. Upper class members meet at least
once each year with the guidance counselor.
As a part of MVL’s program to assist students, the following tests have been scheduled: The Iowa
Algebra Aptitude Test is given to incoming freshmen to help determine placement in ninth grade
math courses, the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT) is administered to juniors. The PLAN test is administered to all sophomores as a
way to prepare them for the ACT and to provide MVL with a career inventory on each student. The
ACT and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) may also be taken by juniors and seniors. The
Minnesota Basic Standards Tests are given annually. In addition, MVL also offers various interest
and career inventories to aid counselors in assisting students with career decision-making. Finally,
MVL is an official test site for the ACT.
Counseling
Counseling is available to students through class advisors assigned to each student, the Guidance
Counselor, the Spiritual Counselor, and the Dean of Students. Students are urged to make use of
these advisors in seeking help with their personal and academic problems. Since MVL is interested
in the spiritual life of its students, such counseling is ethically confidential in matters of a personal
and spiritual nature. Students with specific problems ought to inform the teacher if the problem
could interfere with progress and success in school.
Worship
Students and faculty have a chapel worship period each day. This is an opportunity to nurture our
faith through meditating on a portion of God's Word, to express our love for God and each other, to
pray, and to praise God. The atmosphere is one of devotion and meditation. Each student and
teacher is expected to attend these services. Each student is to have access to a hymnal at chapel
services. The WELS hymnal, Christian Worship, A Lutheran Hymnal, is used in chapel worship. In
keeping with a devotional attitude, all conversation is to cease at the beginning of the service. Area
pastors frequently serve as guest speakers for worship services on Thursdays. Prayer is
encouraged throughout the day as we have opportunity to talk to our God.
Chapel Offerings
An offering is taken from the students, faculty, and staff weekly. The MVL Student Council
designates a specific purpose for the offering. The stewardship of gifts to the Lord's work is a vital
part of Christian discipleship. Encouraging first-fruit giving as a result of faith is a part of MVL's
program.
Media Center
The Media Center will usually be open between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Monday - Thursday and
from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday. Students and faculty members may check out books and
materials. Students using the Media Center during school hours must have a written pass from a
teacher to be excused from study hall. Borrowers will assume responsibility for replacement of lost
materials. When students borrow books from other libraries through MVL (e.g. MLC, Bethany,
MSU, etc.), such use is viewed as a library-to-library loan, MVL is liable to the lending library for the
prompt and safe return of the borrowed book. Because MVL and its constituents benefit from such
a system, and because of MVL’s stated responsibility, any such library books not returned for
whatever reason to their respective libraries will be billed to the student’s account, subject for
payment prior to graduation from MVL. Student library privileges will be rescinded for a time if they
are abused.
Student Librarians
Student librarians are sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are willing to use their study hall time in
this study/work program. They may volunteer for this position or may be asked by the librarians.
They are required to sit behind the check out desk and help students when necessary. Otherwise,
their time can be spent doing school work.
Study Halls
Students’ schedules may include study halls. These are intended to provide time for students to
prepare their homework. Students are not to eat or drink in the study hall or Media Center. A quiet
atmosphere conducive to study is expected in the study halls and the Media Center. Compliance
with the Study Hall supervisor’s direction is expected. The Study Hall supervisor will verbally remind
any student displaying unacceptable study hall conduct. Upon any further incidents or any acts of
defiance, that student is to be sent to the Dean of Students.
Food and Drink
Food and drink are not permitted in the classrooms unless the teacher determines that they are
appropriate for a special occasion or a specific lesson. Exceptions will be made for water.
Attendance
In order to get the most out of education, it is very important that students develops and maintains
good attendance habits. To aid in carrying this out, the closed-campus concept is used at MVL.
This means that a student is to be at school for the opening of school, even if he/she has a study
period first hour, and is to remain until the end of the school day, even if he/she has a last hour
study period. Students are expected to eat the hot lunch served at school, or bring their own
provided lunch (this could include times of deliveries). There will be exceptions made to those
students in a PSEO or extended learning program.
Policy - MVL students are expected to attend classes in order to receive credit for courses. Students
who exceed eight absences per course per semester will not receive credit for that course. A
student has the right of appeal if unusual circumstances resulted in excessive absences.
A. Excused Absences (EA)
Definition - Any absence explained by parental/guardian written or vocal verification, stating the
specific reason for the absence. These absences DO count against a student’s allowed eight
absences per course. Examples include absences resulting from: illness or parental/guardian
request.
1. Planned absences do count as one or more of the eight absences (e.g. family
vacations, visits to credit post-secondary institutions) for which a student will lose
credit upon the ninth absence. Please plan such activities to miss as little school as
possible.
2. In-School Absence (IA) - Any absence from class resulting from illness that causes a student
to use the nurse’s office. These absences DO NOT count against a student’s allowed eight
absences per course.
3. School-Related Activity (SA) - A school-initiated absence does not count as one of the eight
absences (e.g. field trips, class trip, mass band festival, sports, etc.)
B. Unexcused Absences (UA)
1. Definition - Any absence occurring for which there is no parental excuse. A consequence of
some type could be handed out to the student because of the absence including truancy.
These absences DO count against a student’s allowed eight absences per course.
2. An unexcused absence could also be given to a student for removal from class for
disciplinary reasons.
C. Exceptions
1. Extended Illness (EI) - In cases where a student contracts a communicable disease or needs
recuperation from surgery, or in other situations which require remaining at home for
extended periods of time (doctor revisits, and where such an illness/disability/circumstance
has been confirmed by a doctor, such absences WILL NOT be counted toward the eight
absence limit. Students who meet these considerations must provide a doctor’s written
excuse verifying required this time of absence in order for the absent days to be considered
an Extended Illness.
2. Family Emergency Absence (FA) – An act of God in His will causes a family initiated absence
which does not count as one of the eight absences. This could also include a homebound
status during this time or weather-related (WA).
D. Administration of Policy
1. An unexcused absence for removal from class for disciplinary reasons, suspension, or
truancy, will be recorded on the student's permanent record. In each case the student is to
report to the Dean of Students before re-entering classes. Upon the first offense, the Dean of
Students will counsel the student. A second offense will also involve contact with the
parents. A third similar offense will involve a consultation with the parents and may lead to a
minimum three-day suspension.
2. Letters of notification are sent to the parents after the fourth and sixth absences. After the
eighth absence, a final warning letter is sent to the parents. These letters are sent home
from the office of the Dean of Students. The Dean also notifies the student's advisor when
the increment of four, six, or eight absences has been reached, so that counseling can take
place. Upon the ninth absence, a letter is sent to the parents informing them that the student
will not receive credit for that course. The advisor is again notified.
3. Students who exceed eight absences per semester per course may appeal the loss of credit
to the faculty by means of a written letter that will be considered at the next regularly
scheduled faculty meeting. At that time the faculty will review the student’s attendance
history in evaluating the appeal.
4. When a student has reason to leave school early because of illness, he/she should report to
the office before leaving the school building and obtain an exit pass. When a student has
reason to leave school early for a scheduled appointment, he/she should bring written
parental permission to the office and be issued a pass to leave class at the appropriate time.
Out of consideration to the teacher, such a pass should be presented at the beginning of
class.
5. Truancy (one who stays out of school without permission):
For each incident (one or more periods or one or more days at a time) when a student is
absent due to a truancy, that student’s QUARTER grade for the courses missed will be
lowered 1/3 of a mark, meaning from B to B- or C to C-, etc. This only applies to the truancy
days and NOT the day(s) spent serving a suspension. The teacher will report the adjusted
grade at the end of the quarter. The office will notify any teacher whose student is truant.
6. Suspension:
If a student is serving a suspension, his/her work and/or tests will be graded as though the
student were present in the class. The work for the day of the suspension is to be done that
day and the assignment(s) for the following day(s) is/are to be done on time. Before the day
of suspension begins, the student is to turn in all work what is due to his/her teachers and get
any assignments that will be given that day. If a teacher chooses not to give the assignment
at that time the teacher will provide that information in a timely manner during the day of the
suspension.
In-School Suspension (IS) - This type of suspension is defined when a student spends the
suspension time period in an isolated educational area within the school. The teacher’s of the
student will bring their class assignments for the day to the Dean of Students to deliver to the
suspended student. The student will be integrated into the student body for chapel only.
Out-of-School Suspension (OS) - This type of suspension is defined when a student spends the
suspension time period outside of school. The student is not allowed to be part of the student
body during this type of suspension. This includes attending events. Suspended students may
also have to meet certain qualifications during an Out-of-School suspension. The Dean of
Students is in charge of monitoring a suspension time period.
Tardies
A student is considered tardy when 1) the student is not in an assigned area or classroom at the
beginning of the school day or 2) the instructor has judged the student tardy because the student
was not in a classroom or the scheduled activity by the end of the passing time.
Students arriving late to school must stop in the office, submit a written or verbal parental/guardian
excuse or make arrangements in a timely manner, and obtain a pass prior to entering class.
Instructors who judge a student tardy between classes will report the tardy electronically without the
need to consult the student. Unexcused Tardies (UT) are recorded on the student's permanent
record. Excused Tardies (ET) may be recorded electronically, but not on a student’s permanent
record. The Dean of Students will keep a tardy status of the student body for the current semester
on file. After the second unexcused tardy a letter of notification will be sent to parents. After the
third unexcused tardy the Dean of Students will counsel with the student. Upon the fourth
unexcused tardy, the student will serve a 40 minute period after school on the school day following
the day he/she was notified of the fourth tardy by the Dean of Students. Upon the fifth unexcused
tardy, the student will serve two consecutive 40 minute periods after school on the school day
following the day he/she was notified of the fifth tardy by the Dean of Students. Upon the sixth
unexcused tardy in a semester, the student will serve a one-day in-school suspension. In-school
suspensions will be served for any and all tardies that exceed six in a semester.
Make-up Work
Each student is required to make up work that has been missed due to any absence. The student is
responsible for this work and is to take the initiative in contacting the instructors who will have the
make-up work in their office. With the exception of planned absences due to vacations, two school
days will be allowed for each school day of absence during which time the make-up work is to be
completed. Work not made up within the time limits may be given a grade of zero at the instructor’s
discretion. When a planned absence is necessary, the student is to notify the Dean of Students.
The student will then contact each teacher and obtain any assignments in advance. Faculty who
lead groups that need to leave school before the school day is over will notify the Dean of Students
so he can notify the rest of the faculty of students who will miss classes.
Incomplete Work
An “I” for incomplete is to be given in a course only if there is an extended illness or family crisis at
the end of a quarter or semester. For any other circumstances, the makeup procedure will be
followed. When students are under a plan with modifications or accommodations, those are to be
followed, but deadlines as outlined by a particular plan are to be maintained. If work is not done for
reasons other than illness or family crisis, a grade of incomplete should not be given, and the
student will be counseled about stewardship of gifts and time and parents will be informed.
Grading
Class grades, report card grades, and grades recorded on a student's permanent record will consist
of letter grades having the following grade point equivalences:
A+ = 4.00 B+ = 3.33 C+ = 2.33 D+ = 1.33
A = 4.00 B = 3.00 C = 2.00 D = 1.00
A- = 3.67 B- = 2.67 C- = 1.67 D- = .67
F = 0.00, no credit earned
Guidelines for Academic Review
Each student is encouraged to use his/her God given abilities in preparing himself/herself more fully
to take his/her place in this world as a Christian citizen. The following factors will be taken into
consideration when evaluating a student’s academic achievement: 1) The student’s effort in using
their God-given abilities. 2) The student’s attitude. 3) The student’s grades.
The faculty will conduct student grade reviews at regularly scheduled faculty meetings after mid-
quarter and quarter grades are reported. The current mid-quarter or quarter grades, not semester
averages are used for the review. If a student has adjusted grades on a Modified Academic
Program (MAP) or an Individual Education Program (IEP), the adjusted grades will be used. The
entire faculty will review any student who has: 1) earned two or more D’s (D+, D, D-) 2) earned
one or more F’s 3) an incomplete at the quarter 4) not displayed appropriate attitude or effort in
the use of their God-given gifts.
A student will be placed on academic probation by a majority vote of the faculty. If a student is
placed on academic probation: 1) The student’s advisor will counsel with the student. 2) The Dean
of Students will inform the parent/guardian that the student has been placed on Academic probation.
3) Grade reports will be mailed to the parent/guardian. 4) Additional measures to encourage the
student to make better use of their God-given abilities will be implemented. These actions will apply
until the next grade review. The responsibilities of a student on academic probation are cumulative
from academic review to academic review and from year to year.
If a student is placed on academic probation the following steps are to serve as a general procedure
to be followed. Exceptional cases may warrant deviations from the general procedure.
1) The student will be placed in a directed study period and/or receive peer tutoring for the
classes in which they are experiencing difficulty. The student will also receive additional
instruction in study skills. The student will meet weekly with their advisor. This action
expresses the faculty’s desire for the student to be more serious with their studies.
2) If a student is placed on academic probation for two consecutive academic reviews, the
student will be required to attend an after school study period two nights a week from 3:10
to 4:10. The student will also be restricted to one co-curricular activity. This action
expresses the faculty’s desire for the student to raise the priority they are placing on their
academic work.
3) If a student is placed on academic probation for three consecutive academic reviews, the
student will be required to attend an after school study period three nights per week from
3:10-4:10. The student will not be allowed to participate in co-curricular activities. The
student is suspended from participation in the co-curricular activities until the next
academic review (no practices, performances, bus rides, or sitting with the team). This
action expresses the faculty’s increasing concern for the student’s academic welfare, and
is to serve as a clear warning that the student needs to develop new priorities that will
lead the student to use their God-given abilities to their fullest.
4) If a student is placed on academic probation for four consecutive academic reviews, the
student is jeopardizing their continued enrollment at MVL. The student will now be placed
under a contract that specifically outlines required actions. The student, the parent or
guardian and the principal must sign this contract. This action is expressing deep concern
for the future of the student at MVL.
5) If a student is placed on academic probation in non-consecutive grade reviews within four
consecutive grade reviews, the student will start at the next step in the process.
It should be understood that our prayers on behalf of the student would support this entire process,
as well as all of our efforts. The faculty understands that the students are God’s lambs entrusted to
their care. To this end, the spiritual counselor may be included as part of these actions.
Co-curricular activities include participation in athletics, cheerleading, Spirit Squad, Dance Line,
drama, speech competition, Math team, Knowledge Bowl, serving as a class officer, serving as a
member of the Student Council, intramurals, Art Club, National Honor Society, serving as a student
librarian, serving as a peer tutor, Chargaliers, Jazz Ensemble, or other musical auxiliaries.
Student Involvement in Co-Curricular Activities
Student involvement in co-curricular activities is to be considered a privilege, not a right.
The amount of involvement by a student in co-curricular activities is the prime responsibility of the
student in consultation with his/her parents. The student must remember that the first line of
responsibility is to academic performance. No student is to be involved in more than one sport,
including cheerleading, during any one season. Involvement in a sport and another co-curricular
activity is allowable, but only if the student upholds the responsibility to academics first. The faculty
may restrict a student from participating in too many co-curricular activities through the student’s
advisor and in consultation with the parents.
Controlled Substances: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs
As a Christian school, MVL is concerned not only about the spiritual health of its students, but also
about their mental and physical welfare. Alcohol, tobacco, or drug use by students is not permitted
anywhere on the school property, in the vicinity of the school property, or on the buses. Students
also may not smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or use drugs at any school-sponsored activity,
either at MVL or elsewhere. Violations may result in ineligibility, suspension, or expulsion.
It is further recommended that students not use any of these controlled substances away from the
school or its activities. MVL is a member of the Minnesota State High School League. The league’s
training rules prohibit any use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs during the entire calendar year, including
the summer months. The following is the adopted policy in the use of mood-altering chemicals.
This policy is filed with the Minnesota State High School League.
First Violation Penalty: beginning with the day the violation is confirmed, the student shall lose
eligibility for the next THREE (3) CONSECUTIVE INTERSCHOLASTIC EVENTS or 21 consecutive
calendar days of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater. No exception
is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program.
Second Violation Penalty: beginning with the day the second violation is confirmed, the student shall
lose eligibility for the next SIX (6) CONSECUTIVE INTERSCHOLASTIC EVENTS or 42 consecutive
calendar days of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater. No exception
is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program.
Third Violation Penalty: beginning with the day the third or subsequent violation is confirmed, the
student shall lose eligibility for the next TWELVE (12) CONSECUTIVE INTERSCHOLASTIC
EVENTS or 84 consecutive calendar days of a season in which the student is a participant,
whichever is greater. If after the third or subsequent violation the student on his/her own volition
becomes a participant in a chemical dependency program or treatment program, the student may be
certified for reinstatement in MSHSL activities after a minimum of six (6) weeks. Such certification
must be issued by the director or counselor of a chemical dependency treatment center.
All violations are cumulative during the high school years of a student and are transferable to
another school that is a member of the Minnesota State High School League. The above penalties
apply to Category I activities as determined by the MSHSL, all sports and cheerleading.
During the time that a student is serving a penalty, the student may be part of the team for practice
purposes only and must remain on the team for the entire season. If the student leaves the team
before the activity is completed, the penalty is not considered completed. (MSHSL)
Eligibility Guidelines for Non-Athletic Co-Curricular Activities
The following guidelines apply to all non-athletic co-curricular activities. They are also to apply to all
curricular group appearances outside of school functions. Any and all offenses are to be
cumulative.
First offense: beginning with the day the violation is confirmed, the student shall be prohibited from
participating in any event or meeting for 21 consecutive calendar days.
Second offense: beginning with the day the second violation is confirmed, the student shall be
prohibited from participating in any event or meeting for 42 consecutive calendar days. If it is the
second offense in the same school year, there will be no more participation in A Cappella Choir for
the duration of the school year.
Third and/or succeeding offense: beginning with the day the third violation is confirmed, the student
shall be prohibited from participating in any event or meeting for 84 consecutive calendar days. If it
is the third offense in the same school year, there will be no participation in an activity for the
duration of the school year. Any portion of the penalty period remaining at the end of the school
year is to be carried over into the succeeding year.
The following groups or types of groups representative of non-athletic activities to be affected are
Curricular Activities: Band, A Cappella Choir, Concert Choir, Freshmen Choir, Flashback, the
Charger.
Co-Curricular Activities: Chargaliers, Pep Band, Jazz Ensemble, drama, speech competition, Math
Team, Knowledge Bowl Team, serving as a class officer, Student Council, Art Club, other clubs,
intramurals.
During the time that a student is serving a penalty, the student may be a part of the extra-curricular
group for practice purposes only. The student is not to travel with the group, appear on stage in any
way with the group, or serve in any other capacity that may indicate he/she is a part of the co-
curricular group of the school.
Pregnancy Policy
Male or female MVL students involved in a pregnancy, upon evidence of repentance, will be
encouraged to continue and complete their education at MVL. They will be encouraged to receive
regular spiritual counseling. They will be excused from publicly representing MVL in curricular or co-
curricular activities (including the senior class trip) for the duration of the pregnancy.
The student body will be notified and advised - usually in their respective religion classes - when a
pregnancy is brought to the attention of the administration. A situation like this gives all of us the
opportunity to be reminded that God is serious about His will for our lives, as well as to share in the
joy of God's forgiveness for Jesus' sake.
The complete Pregnancy Policy is on file in the school office.
Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School to maintain a learning and working
environment that is free from sexual harassment or exploitation. Minnesota Valley Lutheran High
School prohibits any form of sexual harassment or exploitation.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel
of MVL to harass or exploit any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel. (For
purposes of this policy, school personnel includes school employees and volunteers.)
MVL will act to investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of sexual
harassment or exploitation and to take appropriate action against any student, teacher,
administrator, or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy. The complete
policy is on file in the school office and with its administration.
Assault
It is the policy of Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School to maintain a learning and working
environment that is free of assaultive behavior. Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School prohibits
any form of assault.
It is a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel of
MVL to assault any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel. (For purposes of this
policy, school personnel includes school employees and volunteers.)
MVL will act to investigate all reported incidents of assault and take appropriate action against any
student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy.
The complete policy is on file in the school office.
Dangerous Weapons
It is the policy of Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School to maintain a working and learning
environment that contributes to the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. Minnesota Valley
Lutheran High School in accordance with Minnesota State Law declares that school property is a
GUN FREE ZONE! In the case of firearms, vehicular storage is legal but it is illegal for a person
with or without a permit to carry a pistol on school property (includes game and practice fields). It is
advisable that handguns not be brought to the MVL campus. MVL also prohibits the threat of use or
look-alike weapons on school property, in a school facility, in a school vehicle, or at any school-
sponsored functions. Exceptions to this policy can be made if a weapon is handled in a legal
manner for the purpose of education or as part of a program approved by the school administration,
or in the exercise of a legal activity. The complete policy and state law is on file in the Dean of
Student’s office.
Illegal Drugs Detection Policy
In keeping with our standard of maintaining a safe environment for our students, faculty and staff,
Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School will engage the services of Nicollet County law enforcement
to provide dogs trained to detect the presence of illegal drugs in our school. A dog or dogs will pass
through (sweep) the hallways and locker rooms of our school as well as any faculty and staff work
areas while school is in session. A sweep of the MVL parking lot and school owned vehicles may
also be conducted on the same date or at another time. The administration will inform the students
of the results of such a sweep to assure them that MVL is a drug-free school or to inform them about
possible/probable follow-up by law enforcement. A sweep of the MVL property may be conducted
during the summer prior to the start of a school year to determine its status as a drug-free campus.
The administration of MVL reserves the right to contact Nicollet County law enforcement, as they
deem necessary without any prior notification of students or parents.
School Letters
MVL may award letters to students who have participated in athletics, weightlifting, Chargaliers,
drama productions, Student Council, Jazz Ensemble, Speech competition, Knowledge Bowl, and
the Math Team. A pre-requisite to the awarding of a letter is adherence to the MVL and Minnesota
State High School League rules regarding controlled substances. Further criteria for the awarding
of a school letter in each of the individual areas are as follows:
A. Athletics
1. Amount of playing time.
2. Effort demonstrated in practice and in competition.
3. Attitude demonstrated in competition and/or on the bench.
4. Practice attendance.
5. Value to the team as a team player as opposed to an individual player, attitude toward the
team. This also includes the statistical value to the team.
6. Faithful participation on the part of a senior during the years of high school.
7. Adherence to training rules. The final decision for the awarding of the school letter rests with
the head coach in consultation with the administration of the school.
Managers are considered for the awarding of a school letter when they have faithfully served in one
of those capacities for two sports or two seasons of a single sport.
B. Weightlifting
1. Faithful attendance at practices.
2. The athlete works to improve on his/her individual capabilities and goals in all areas.
3. Participation in all competitions.
4. Accumulation of the required points as outlined below:
a) Each competition is worth 30 points (3 a year). In two years would accumulate 180
points.
b) Each daily attendance is worth 5 points (avg. of 45x). In two years would be 450 points.
c) Would receive points for Bench and Squat lifts with a body weight formula. We would use
80 points on this chart as the amount needed to receive enough credit in our system.
Therefore, in two years, with two lifts the lifter would need 320 points.
180 + 450 + 320 = 950 pts. We could use 900 as a rough goal that needed to be reached. Season:
Winter season, same as Basketball
C. Chargaliers
1. Practice and performance time totaling a minimum of 80 hours.
2. No unexcused absence from performances or rehearsals is allowed.
3. Student must demonstrate a positive Christ-like representation in and out of organized
Chargalier activities.
4. Student must demonstrate an eagerness to work faithfully, follow direction, and improve
his/her musicianship.
5. The requirements and obligations of the school’s main choral groups must be satisfactorily
completed.
6. Also considered are participation in solo and ensemble contests as a soloist and/or in a small
ensemble, volunteerism in helping with such things as the Prism Concert, Grade School
Music Contest, etc., officers of the group including secretary, treasurer, and
president/speaker.
The final decision for awarding the school letter is made by the director/advisor in consultation with
the administration.
D. Drama
1. Attitude/effort will include setting a good example, being cooperative, having a positive
attitude, accepting criticism, showing leadership, getting the job done on time, having
excellent attendance, working cooperatively with the director/producer and willingly following
all directions given by the director/producer.
2. Time involvement and amount of memorization will be evaluated by the director/producer
according to the amount of time the student puts into practicing/learning his/her role and/or
working on a crew.
A student who has a major role or position in terms of memorization time involvement and who
displays a positive attitude and effort may be eligible for a letter in one year. Students with roles or
positions that are less demanding in terms of time and work involvement would have to be involved
in two or three productions in order to be eligible for a letter. Final decision will be made by the
director/producer in consultation with the administration.
E. Jazz Ensemble
1. Practice and performance time totaling a minimum of 80 hours per school year.
2. No unexcused absence from performances or rehearsals is allowed.
3. The student must demonstrate a positive Christ-like representation in and out of organized
Jazz Ensemble activities.
4. The student must demonstrate an eagerness to work faithfully, accept direction, and improve
his/her God-given musical ability.
The final decision for awarding the school letter is made by the director in consultation with the
administration.
F. Student Council
All seniors automatically receive a letter for their involvement on the Student Council. All others
must serve two years on the Student Council to receive a letter. The final decision for awarding the
school letter is made by the faculty advisors in consultation with the administration.
18
G. Speech Competition
Speech competition is an extra-curricular activity that involves students in public speaking, oral
interpretation of literature, and dramatics. Students will have the opportunity to participate in two or
more festivals and the sub-section tournament.
A student would need a minimum of 50 points to letter in speech.
1. Five (5) points for each time a student participates in an invitational, sub sectional, or
sectional competition.
2. Five (5) points for each time a student places in an invitational or sub sectional competition.
3. Ten (10) points for going to state competition.
4. Five (5) points for participating in scheduled team training sessions.
5. Five (5) points for practice attendance, spirit, and team enthusiasm, and a positive attitude
and effort.
6. Points are cumulative from year to year.
Further letters or service bars would be granted on a 50 point basis. The final decision for awarding
of the school letter is made by the coach in consultation with the administration.
H. Knowledge Bowl
Criteria for lettering:
1. 600 points needed to letter, with points accumulating from year to year.
2. 10 points for each complete practice attendance.
3. 50 points for each meet at which a student assists as a computer operator. (This would make
it possible for a student who helps in this way to letter in about 2 years of faith assistance.)
4. 1 point for each point scored by their team at a meet.
Also considered when awarding a school letter or service bar:
1. Faithful participation in Knowledge Bowl during the students entire high school career.
2. Any Knowledge Bowl member who is on a team that goes to state competition will letter.
3. Any senior with at least two years of faithful participation will letter.
4. Additional service bars will accumulate on a 600 point basis.
5. No more than one letter will be awarded per year.
I. Math Team
A student would need 150 points to letter on the Math Team. Points may be earned in the following
manner.
1. One point for each complete practice session attended.
2. Three points for each meet in which the student competes individually.
3. Five points for each meet in which the student competes as a member of the MVL team.
4. Two times the number of individual points earned at each meet.
5. Points are cumulative from year to year.
6. Faithful participation on the part of a senior during the high school years.
Further letters or service bars may be granted on a 150-point basis. The final decision for awarding
of a school letter is made by the coach.
Discipline
Each student, although a child of God, is nevertheless a sinning saint. Therefore, MVL endeavors to
lead each to recognize himself/herself as a sinner and to repent and trust Jesus Christ as the only
personal Savior from sin. When a student conspicuously or consistently violates the rules of
Christian conduct, the faculty and Dean of Students must deal with this behavior as sin, seek to lead
the student to recognize it as such, repent, and accept God’s forgiving love in Christ. The student
will be encouraged to demonstrate an intent to live a Christian life with the help of the Holy Spirit. It
may be necessary that a student be deprived of some school privileges. Ultimately, suspension or
expulsion may result so that the student and the entire school family may recognize the seriousness
of sin. Such actions do not indicate a withholding of forgiveness for the sin; rather they reflect our
concern about the welfare of individual souls and for the well being of the entire school.
Cheating
In an academic setting, cheating becomes a situation for alarm because it not only calls into
question the validity of a student's grades, cumulative GPA, and class rank, but it also can blemish
our high school's credibility in the academic community. This is especially true when colleges and
universities today place so much emphasis on these items of measurement as pre-requisites for
meeting enrollment standards. More importantly, there is no place for such dishonesty at Minnesota
Valley Lutheran High School where God's Word reigns supreme in our thoughts, words, and actions
(Eph. 4:22-24). Therefore, upon the first occurrence of cheating a letter will be sent home to the
parents and a 40 minute detention will be given by the Dean. A second offense will be cause for a
second letter home to the parents and a 40 minute detention will be given for 2 days. A third
offense will render a 1 day in-school suspension. Further occurrences could be detrimental to the
student’s future at MVL. In each case, the graded assignment will be left to the discretion of the
teacher involved. This punishment will be progressive for the student’s high school career here at
MVL.
Disciplinary Suspension and Expulsion
If a student persists in displaying a pattern of conduct unbecoming a Christian, or openly promotes
doctrine contrary to Biblical teachings, he/she may be suspended by the Dean of Students. A
student suspended for disciplinary reasons may receive a variety of consequences including
suspension, pastoral counseling, and other forms of counseling. Each disciplinary event dealing
with an expulsion is to be on a case by case basis. The Dean of Students may also ask for
informational reports concerning the counseling opportunities required on suspension or expulsion.
With an expulsion, the student, together with his/her parent(s), must appear before the Dean of
Students in order to be readmitted. Readmission is subject to the faculty's consideration and
approval. The administration and faculty may recommend expulsion to the Executive Committee of
the Board of Directors. If the Executive Committee expels the student, there may be appeal to the
full Board of Directors. Expulsion from Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is permanent. An
appeal for readmission the following school year may be made by the parents and would be
reviewed by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.
Before and After School Hours
When arriving at school, students should go to their first hour classroom, the commons area or the
library/media center to study/visit quietly until the class begins. After the final class, students
ordinarily are expected to be out of rooms and corridors. Students having a reason to stay beyond
dismissal are to be in designated areas or in a co-curricular practice or rehearsal.
Transportation
Busing is offered for students who live in District #88. Buses from the various routes will deliver our
students to the transfer point at Jefferson School for the ride to MVL. District #88 buses will pick up
our students at MVL and make the transfer at Jefferson School in the evening. Students are to wait
in the foyer at Jefferson and are not to enter the hallways or classrooms.
Students who are members of Association congregations and live outside School District #88 and
yet within a 30-mile radius of MVL will have transportation provided by the high school from a
central, designated pick up point for each congregation.
Students involved in interscholastic athletics will find their own transportation home after practice.
Young athletes will be helped with carpooling if requested by parents.
Student Driving
MVL encourages the use of school buses and vans for transportation to and from the school.
Students licensed to drive motorized vehicles to and from school may do so. Operating a vehicle on
school property in a manner that endangers the lives of the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and
people in other vehicles will result in restrictions of driving privileges by the Dean of Students. Law
enforcement may be notified and involved.
Students are required to register their vehicles by filling out a form on Orientation day. If vehicles
are replaced during the course of a school year, students should update the office by filling out an
additional form. Forms are kept on file in the office.
MVL is a closed campus, and, therefore, students are to remain on the campus until the end of the
school day. Students may not leave the campus during the school day without prior written
permission from the parents and notification to the Dean of Students.
When MVL athletic teams travel to away games, team members are expected to ride transportation
provided by MVL. Upon the completion of an athletic contest an individual team member wishes to
go home with a parent or another adult, prior written permission must be furnished to the
responsible coach or supervisor. The following is a sample of the information needed by the school
as the written consent of the parent/guardian.
Date____________________________
Our daughter/son ________________________has our permission to ride/drive to
_______________________today with ________________ after school or the athletic event.
Parent’s signature_______________________________________
Parking
In order for vehicles to efficiently and safely maneuver in our parking lot, all vehicles are expected to
be properly parked during school hours. Vehicles are properly parked when they are within the
yellow markings designated for parked vehicles. The Dean of Students will deal with those students
who park improperly.
Student Dress and Grooming
MVL students are encouraged to remember that in everything the Christian is to give glory to God.
The responsibility for the dress and appearance of students generally rests with the individual
students and their parents. In that spirit they will want their appearance to show that they are “a
people belonging to God” (I Peter 2:9). While attending classes, MVL students are expected to
dress with neatness and modesty. A modest style of dress will avoid clothing that is tight fitting,
has a plunging neckline, revealing undergarments, or revealing body parts. Parents and students
are encouraged to review and discuss the following examples of items that are not considered
modest or in compliance with MVL’s Dress and Grooming Policy.
• Tattered, torn, worn-out, or dirty clothing
• Pajamas or pajama-style pants, sweat pants, or break-away wind pants with snaps (wind pants
without snaps are permitted)
• Uncovered tops such as spaghetti straps, halter tops, sling tops (tube tops are never allowed)
• Visible body piercing (exception: ears)
• “Low-rise” or sagging pants/shorts
• Clothing (as well as jackets, bags, and school-related materials) that has advertising or slogans
relating to beer, alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, bars, music groups or their representations,
gambling, pro-wrestling, or questionable innuendoes including gothic dress and gang
identification (bandanas), symbols of darkness (skulls, cross bones, death related), and
degrading messages
• No exposed zippers on pants, chains, or metal studs are allowed. They not only can be seen as
weapons but they can also damage the desks and the bleachers.
• Bare midriffs, sides, or lower backs must be covered: shirts must be long enough to be able to
be tucked in to cover midriffs in front and back while standing or sitting
• No headwear, including bandanas, may be worn by students during the school day.
• Any body markings should be covered.
• No blankets/pillows.
Modest shorts may be worn at any time during the school year. Shorts made of spandex, tattered,
cut-off shorts, or shorts with holes should not be worn. As a guideline, a minimum 4 inch inseam
should be maintained for length of shorts.
Modest skorts, skirts, and dresses may also be worn by females at any time during the school year.
As a guideline, follow this self-examination guide: an appropriate length for skorts, skirts, or dresses
is when arms are placed at a person’s sides, the bottom of the hem should at a minimum meet the
fingertips of the outstretched hands.
Failure to comply with MVL’s Dress and Grooming Policy may require disciplinary action. The
following consequences will be enforced for all dress code violations:
Step One: The student must
• Make arrangements to correct the violation
• Sign an anecdotal report that includes admission of the violation (the violation will be sent home),
discuss consequences of future violations, and consultation
• Return to class with proper attire
• Serve a forty (40) minute detention.
Step Two: The student must
• Perform the actions of Step One along with:
• Serve two (2) consecutive 40 minute detentions.
Step Three: The student must
• Perform the actions of Steps One and Two along with:
• Serve a one day in-school suspension.
Any incidents after Step Three may lead to reconsideration of future attendance at MVL.
Formal Dress Code (addition for 2008 – 2009)
Boys
Tuxedos are not a requirement for attendance. Dress for the young men should minimally be dress
pants, a dress shirt, or a sweater. Ties are optional. Suits are always welcomed. A dress shirt
must be worn and buttoned to a modest level at all times. A vest, tie, and or comber bun on its own
does not qualify as a shirt.
Girls
Strapless gowns are not allowed. A one or two strap gown is acceptable, as long as it meets the
other requirements. Clear straps are allowed. No plunging necklines and the neckline of the
gown/dress must cover all undergarments.
The back line of the gown/dress must cover the small of the back. Any revealed back line below the
shoulder blades is bordering being immodest. If a gown/dress/skirt has a slit, the slit must not go
past mid thigh. Use the standard at home: When the arms are placed at the side, the slit must not
go above the fingertips. Gown/dresses/skirts should be of a length that when the arms are placed at
the sides, the hem goes to or beyond the outstretched fingertips.
All midriff or stomach regions must not be revealed. (netting DOES NOT work)
MVL students and parents should share these guidelines with any possible guests. If there are any
questions to this code, please feel free to call the Dean of Students.
School Parties and Activities
The Student Council and others organize social activities at school. These activities may include
dances, movies, lyceums, etc. All school parties and dances are supervised by MVL faculty
members with assistance from parents or other responsible adults. The date and type of party or
dance must be approved by the principal and must end by midnight, or a pre-determined time.
Student Council
The Student Council consists of 18 students (6 seniors, 5 juniors, 4 sophomores, 3 freshmen) under
the guidance of faculty advisors.
The Student Council will meet during the school day. The frequency of meetings will be determined
by the Council’s role in school-related activities. Individual committees of the Student Council may
also meet during school hours or at some other time convenient for committee members and a
faculty advisor.
The three executive positions of president, vice-president/treasurer and secretary are to be elected
by the student body in the spring. Individual classes are to elect the additional representatives from
their class after the elections for the officers have taken place. Students should campaign for the
executive positions. The first to be selected is the president. Other candidates for the position may
also campaign for the other executive positions if they are not elected as the president. The
freshman class is to elect its representatives in the fall.
Including the students elected by the entire student body (executive positions), the representation
shall be seniors-6, juniors-5, sophomores-4, freshmen-3.
Elections for all positions on the Student Council are held annually.
National Honor Society
The National Honor Society (NHS) is a service organization that recognizes accomplishments of
students in scholastics, leadership, service, and citizenship. It is open to juniors and seniors who
have a non-weighted cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better. Students with this GPA range will be invited
to fill out a Student Activity Information Form in the early part of the second semester. The faculty
will be asked to complete a comment form on candidates who are scholastically eligible and high
school discipline records will be consulted. A council of five faculty members shall review this
information and shall select inductees. Inductees will be contacted and an induction ceremony will
take place upon which the students will be considered members of the Minnesota Valley Lutheran
Chapter of the National Honor Society. Membership in the National Honor Society opens the door
for future scholarship opportunities and is highly regarded by schools requesting transcripts.
Membership is not only an honor it is also a responsibility. Members who fall below the standards
shall first be counseled by the advisor and then may meet with disciplinary action imposed by the
Faculty Council. If the student offense is severe, dismissal may be warranted which the Faculty
Council will also determine. The member may appeal this decision through proper channels by first
contacting the principal.
Publications
FLASHBACK (Yearbook)
The staff shall consist of members of the Journalism and Publishing class and their teacher(s). The
Flashback is to be produced by this class. At the discretion of the faculty advisor and the staff, other
students may be selected to assist with designated portions of the work.
THE CHARGER (School paper)
The staff shall consist of members of the Journalism and Publishing class and their teacher(s). The
Charger is to be produced by this class. At the discretion of the faculty advisor and the staff, other
students may be selected to contribute or assist with the school paper.
Student Employment
It is understandable that some students need part-time employment to assist with tuition payments.
Such employment is not to interfere with the student's primary responsibility, which is his/her
schoolwork. It is strongly encouraged that students work no more than 10 hours per week at their
place of employment to allow time for academics, school-related function and rest.
Minnesota State Law states that 14 and 15 year olds may not work before 7:00 am or after 9:00 pm
except as a newspaper carrier; for more than 40 hours per week, or more than 8 hours per 24 hour
period except in an agricultural operation; or on school days, during school hours, without an
employment certificate issued by the appropriate school officials.
Business Office
The business office is the place where the school’s business matters are transacted; particularly the
paying of tuition, fees, and purchasing hot lunch tickets. It is also the center of the school from
which announcements, emergency calls, etc, originate. The making of change by the office staff is
discouraged.
Telephone Calls
Except for emergencies, students should make telephone calls before school, during lunch, or after
school. A pay telephone is provided in the commons for student use. The office phone or faculty
room phone is not to be used for personal calls by students. Please bring coins for the pay
phone in the commons for all personal calls including calls home. Students will be called out of
classes to the telephone only for emergency purposes.
Electronic Devices
Those students who have cell phones or pagers are not allowed to use either device during school
hours. They must be turned off (NOT SILENT) during school hours and placed in the hall
locker. Cell phones are allowed to be used only with permission from the office. Cell phones are
never to be brought into the classrooms, locker rooms, and bathrooms. If the devices go off, during
school hours, they will be confiscated by an instructor or supervisor and taken to the office. Lap
tops will be allowed to be brought to class and used only for class purposes. This must be
monitored by the teacher. Punishments for any electronic device misuse will follow the same
directions as the Cheating policy. This punishment is yearly and not progressive.
Emergency School Closing
It may occasionally happen that school must be called off due to adverse weather conditions or
other emergencies. These include late starts, early dismissals, or cancellation. Any decision to
close school will be aired as early as possible on area radio stations: WCCO (830) Twin Cities;
KNUJ (860) and KXLP-FM (93.1) New Ulm; KRBI (1310) and (105.5) St. Peter; KEEZ (99.1) , KTOE
(1420), and KYSM (103.5) Mankato; KXAX (105) St. James; and KLGR (1490) Redwood Falls. In
addition, weather announcements will appear on WCCO-TV (Channel 4), KARE-11, KEYC-12,
KSTP-5, and KMSP-9 and the MVL website (www.mvl.org).
Fire Drills/Tornado Drills
In the event the building is to be evacuated, the emergency horn will be sounded. At this sound,
everyone is to leave the rooms quietly and orderly. Follow the assigned routes out of the building.
Do not run. The first person through the door should hold the door open. Remain outside until
further directed. Get acquainted with the various routes to follow from each room. Report a fire to
the nearest faculty member.
Other emergency procedures will be explained directly to students.
Any student in need of first aid should contact the office.
For a tornado warning, the regular class bell system will be used as the signal. A series of three
short rings is the signal for the students to move quietly and orderly to designated areas. Faculty
advisors are to accompany their advisees to the designated shelter. Staff personnel are to use the
designated shelters.
Insurance
All students should be covered by some type of accident insurance, either a home policy or one that
is purchased at school. The school does not carry an automatic blanket policy for its students.
Details on policies offered at school are available on Orientation Day.
Lockers
A hallway locker will be assigned to each student. Any change in locker assignment must have the
approval of faculty members who are in charge of lockers. Each student is to keep his/her locker
neat and clean and is responsible for damage to the locker. At no time should any locker be
tampered with to prevent it from closing or from being locked. A $5 fine will be assessed for
such a violation. School spirit emblems may be displayed in season with the permission of the
coaches. Magnets and blue painter’s tape are to be used when displaying attachments on the
interior and exterior of the locker. Transparent tape should not be used to attach items to the
outside or inside. The subject matter of attachments follows the same guidelines as are specified
under Student Dress and Grooming. Each student will be issued a combination for his/her locker.
Any lock other than that issued by the school is prohibited. The school reserves the right to
inspect any locker at any time since lockers are the property of MVL. Responsibility for
security of personal property kept in the locker rests with the locker user. MVL cannot be
responsible if the locker is not locked.
A locker for physical education/athletics will also be assigned to each student in the locker rooms.
Locks are distributed through the Athletic Department. Students should keep their lockers neat and
locked. Students will be charged to replace lost locks and damage to lockers. All hallway lockers
may be closed or locked before a student leaves for the day. The Dean of Students will deal
with students who do not comply.
Lost and Found
Any unclaimed articles left at school will be placed in a designated lost and found area. All
unclaimed books should be turned in to the office. Money or other valuables should be placed in the
office for safekeeping rather than left in lockers or other areas.
Visitors
If a student intends to bring a visitor to school, he/she must make arrangements in the office one
day in advance. All visitors, whether students or adults, are to register with the Dean of
Students/administrator on the day they visit and wear a VISITORS badge while in the building.
Class Meetings and Dues
Each class is to elect officers to serve for a one-year term. The officers to be elected are: president,
vice president/treasurer and secretary.
Class meetings may be called by the president with the knowledge and approval of the faculty class
advisors. At least one advisor shall be present at any meeting of the class. A request for time
during the school day for a class meeting is to be approved by the administration.
Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors pay a $20 Class Dues Fee on Orientation Day. Seniors pay a
$40 Graduation Fee on Orientation Day. The Graduation Fee covers diploma cap, gown, tassel,
and flower expenses. Class dues are not refundable. A student entering the class after the ninth
grade is not required to pay back dues. All class dues are invested in the MVL Capital Expenditure
Fund until needed by the class.
Field Trips
From time to time, some classes may plan a field trip as a part of the regular course offering. Such
field trips must have the approval of the administration/faculty in advance. Since the trip is
considered part of the regular course offering, transportation for such a trip is to be arranged
through the transportation coordinator.
For the senior class trip days, every senior is expected to participate. Those who don’t participate
are subject to the school attendance policy and are to be in school.
MVL Lettered Clothing
It is possible for school organizations to purchase individualized MVL apparel that has prior advisor
approval in consultation with the administration. The purchase of such apparel will not be restricted
to any team or school group unless, in consultation with the administration, it is given as an award or
is part of a team uniform. Students will be publicly advised of the opportunity to purchase such
apparel.
Stereos and Radios
Students are not to use personal listening devices, portable stereos or similar electronic devices
during the school day unless directed by a faculty member. Use of such devices before and after
school should be used with headphones.
Lockdown Procedure
Teachers may be asked to lock down their rooms at times. During that time, no student will be
allowed to leave the classroom or the school building until instructed to do so. Teachers and
students must also keep away from all windows and doors during the lockdown.
Public Display of Affection Policy
Christian companionship is certainly an important by-product of a school where students are of a
common fellowship in faith. Couples are expected to conduct themselves with the dignity and
propriety expected of children of God. Inappropriate public displays of affection are not becoming
to the student nor the school. Christian standards of living call for appropriate displays of affection.
Holding hands and quick hugs are appropriate ways to show affection in public. Anything beyond
this is inappropriate in a Christian school setting. The Dean of Students will be in charge of
addressing couples and parents with concerns and possible disciplinary action.
Updated for the 2008-2009 school year.
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| Student Handbook | 257.13 KB |
