Origin Scholars School Educators & Faculty Handbook

 

Introduction 


Welcome to Origin Scholars School, where educators are called to shape minds and hearts through a rigorous classical Christian curriculum enhanced by ethical artificial intelligence. This handbook serves as your guide to professional expectations, instructional standards, and spiritual leadership across all grade levels—from Preschool 2 through 12th grade.


Mission Statement

To cultivate wisdom, virtue, and Christlike character in scholars through classical Christian education integrated with AI, preparing them to think deeply, live faithfully, and lead courageously.

Statement of Faith Philosophy


All faculty must affirm the school’s Statement of Faith, which includes belief in the authority of Scripture, the deity of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, and the call to live in obedience to God’s Word.


Educational Philosophy

Classical Model

Rooted in the trivium—grammar, logic, and rhetoric—tailored to developmental stages.

Christian Worldview

Every subject is taught through the lens of biblical truth.

AI Integration

Technology is used to support—not replace—human instruction, with emphasis on discernment and ethical use.

Faculty Code of Conduct


Educators are expected to model professionalism, spiritual maturity, and servant leadership.


- Lifestyle Agreement: Faculty MUST LIVE in accordance with biblical standards of morality and integrity.

- Dress Code: Modest, professional attire appropriate to grade level and subject. MUST BE BUSINESS CAUSUAL.

- Confidentiality: All student and family information must be handled with discretion.

- Conflict Resolution: Follow Matthew 18 principles for resolving disputes.

Instructional Framework by Grade Level


Preschool 2–Kindergarten

- Focus on sensory exploration, foundational literacy, and biblical stories.

- Emphasis on play-based learning, routines, and character formation.

- Educators use songs, movement, and hands-on activities to foster joy and curiosity.


Grades 1–6 (Grammar Stage)

- Emphasis on memorization, recitation, and mastery of foundational knowledge.

- Subjects include Bible, literature, Latin, math, science, and history.

- Teachers use chants, timelines, and copywork to reinforce learning.


Grades 7–9 (Logic Stage)

- Focus on analytical thinking, structured debate, and cause-effect reasoning.

- Scholars begin formal logic, essay writing, and Socratic discussion.

- Educators guide students in evaluating arguments and discerning truth.


Grades 10–12 (Rhetoric Stage)

- Emphasis on eloquent expression, synthesis of ideas, and persuasive communication.

- Scholars complete capstone projects, thesis presentations, and apologetics.

- Educators mentor students in leadership, worldview formation, and cultural engagement.

Curriculum and Assessment Standards


- Curriculum Guides: Provided for each grade and subject. Educators may propose changes with approval.

- Lesson Planning: Weekly plans submitted by Monday morning using school template.

- Assessment Types: Includes oral exams, written tests, projects, and AI-supported diagnostics.

- Grading Scale: Standardized across departments. Gradebooks updated weekly.

Classroom Management and Discipline


Educators are responsible for cultivating a respectful, orderly, and joyful learning environment.


- Behavior Expectations: Rooted in biblical virtues—obedience, kindness, diligence.

- Discipline Procedures: Minor infractions handled in-class; major issues referred to administration.

- Documentation: All incidents must be recorded using the Discipline Referral Form.

- Restoration: Emphasis on repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Technology and AI Integration


AI is used to enhance instruction, personalize learning, and support administrative efficiency.


- Approved Tools: Faculty must use school-approved platforms for grading, tutoring, and feedback.

- Scholar Use: Introduced gradually and monitored closely. Educators ensure ethical boundaries.

- Training: Ongoing professional development provided for AI literacy and integration.

Communication and Parent Partnership


Educators are expected to foster strong relationships with families through clear, respectful communication.


- Weekly Updates: Sent via email or school platform. Include academic progress and classroom highlights.

- Parent Conferences: Held twice yearly. Additional meetings scheduled as needed.

- Internal Messaging: Use school email for all professional correspondence. Avoid texting unless urgent.

Professional Development and Evaluation


We invest in our Educators as lifelong learners and spiritual mentors.


- Annual Goals: Set with department heads and reviewed mid-year.

- Observations: Formal and informal classroom visits conducted regularly.

- Faculty Devotions: Held weekly to encourage spiritual growth and unity.

- Evaluation: Includes self-assessment, peer feedback, and administrative review.

Employment Policies and Procedures


- Contracts: Issued annually. Renewal based on performance, enrollment, and budget.

- Compensation: Salary schedules provided separately. Stipends available for extracurricular roles.

- Benefits: Health, retirement, and leave policies detailed in HR documents.

- Resignation/Termination: Requires 30-day notice. Termination may occur for cause or non-renewal.

Health, Safety, and Emergency Protocols


Safety is a shared responsibility.


- Fire Drills: Conducted monthly. Teachers must know evacuation routes and lead scholars calmly.

- Lockdown Procedures: Training provided annually. Educators secure rooms and maintain order.

- Medical Emergencies: First aid kits in every classroom. Incidents must be reported immediately.

Field Trips and Extracurricular Activities


- Approval Process: Submit Field Trip Request Form at least four weeks in advance.

- Chaperones: Must be background-checked and briefed on expectations.

- Transportation: School vehicles or approved charter services only.

- Clubs and Sports: Teachers may sponsor extracurriculars with administrative approval.

Faculty Devotions and Spiritual Leadership


Educators are spiritual leaders and mentors.


- Weekly Devotions: Held every Monday morning. Attendance expected.

- Prayer Teams: Faculty may join intercessory groups for scholars and families.

- Mentorship: Teachers encouraged to disciple scholars through informal and formal channels.

14. Appendices and Required Forms


- Statement of Faith  

- Lifestyle Agreement  

- Lesson Plan Template  

- Discipline Referral Form  

- Field Trip Request Form  

- Technology Use Agreement  

- Emergency Contact Sheet  

- Parent Communication Log  

Unravel the Mystery of the Institution

Delve into a world of intrigue and discovery at Origin Scholars School.