Please discuss expectations for behavior while at DYA on church grounds and while attending DYA related activities off church grounds. 

Discipled Youth Academy

Student & Parent Handbook

2026–2027 Academic Year

Welcome to Discipled Youth Academy

Welcome to Discipled Youth Academy (DYA). We are honored to partner with families in providing a Christ-centered environment that encourages spiritual growth, academic enrichment, character development, creativity, leadership, and community. At DYA, we believe education should inspire students to grow in wisdom, faith, integrity, and purpose. Our goal is to create meaningful experiences that foster learning, discipleship, fellowship, and lifelong memories. Because we are a small, privately operated academy, every student and family is deeply valued. Tuition directly supports our instructors, facility use, hands-on programs, science labs, culinary activities, supplies, special events, and enrichment experiences that make DYA unique. We thank you for partnering with us in building a strong Christian learning community.

Academy Information

Contact Information

Discipled Youth Academy
 Phone/Text: (843) 860-9037Starting in August 2026:
 Classes will run from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PMNEED HELP?
 Give us a call, text, Facebook message, or email with the option you are wanting, and we will send you everything you need to sign up. We will walk you through all steps.

Mission Statement

At Discipled Youth Academy, our mission is to disciple, educate, and encourage students through Christ-centered learning experiences that nurture spiritual growth, academic excellence, leadership, integrity, creativity, and community. We strive to help students grow into confident, compassionate ambassadors for Christ who reflect Biblical values in their daily lives.

Statement of Faith

We believe there is one true God. Matthew 28:19, Genesis 1:1, John 10:30.We believe the Bible is the definitive, living, and inspired Word of God. II Timothy 3:16, II Peter 1:21.We believe the entire Bible to be true, both the Old and New Testaments. We believe in all 10 Commandments and following them in our thoughts and actions. We believe in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. John 14:6.We believe God made humans in His image and breathed His Spirit into them. Genesis 1:27.We believe that all lives are cherished and sacred. Psalm 139.We believe there is power and authority in prayer through the Holy Spirit and through meditating on God’s Word. We pray at the beginning of each day. Matthew 21:22.We believe that we are all sinners and that we are redeemable and made new through repentance and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord, for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 2 Corinthians 5:17, John 14:6.

Building God’s Kingdom

At Discipled Youth Academy, we are called to be stewards of God’s Kingdom, working diligently to fulfill His purpose on earth.

We Believe In:

Love and Compassion

We seek to embody Christ’s love through kindness, humility, generosity, and compassion toward others.

Discipleship and Education

We are committed to nurturing spiritual growth and providing holistic educational enrichment that equips students to live as faithful followers of Christ.

Community and Fellowship

We foster a supportive Christian environment where students and families are encouraged, respected, and unified in love. Through our words, actions, and service, we strive to be ambassadors for Christ, shining His light and extending His grace. “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.”
 — 1 Corinthians 4:20

Ambassadors for Christ

“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors…”
 — 2 Corinthians 5:20–21This is where our High School class receives the name “Ambassadors.”

Student Code of Conduct

Introduction

As students of a Christian academy, we are called to reflect Christ in all aspects of our lives. This Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster a respectful, safe, encouraging, and Christ-centered environment.

Core Values

Faith

We commit to growing in our relationship with Jesus Christ and living out our faith daily.

Respect

We treat others with kindness, dignity, compassion, and respect.

Integrity

We strive to be honest and ethical in our actions and interactions.

Excellence

We pursue excellence academically, spiritually, and personally.

Community

We support and encourage one another while building unity and fellowship.

General Expectations

Behavior and Conduct

Students are expected to:

• Demonstrate Christ-like behavior in words and actions
• Show respect to teachers, staff, students, volunteers, and visitors
• Use uplifting and appropriate language
• Refrain from profanity, gossip, bullying, harassment, or inappropriate behavior
• Participate respectfully in classes and activities
• Follow all academy policies and expectations

Bullying and gossip will not be tolerated, whether verbal, physical, written, or digital. When conflicts arise, DYA follows Biblical principles, including Matthew 18, to encourage healthy communication and resolution. Depending on the nature and severity of incidents, disciplinary action may include:

• Verbal correction
• Parent communication
• Temporary removal from activities
• Suspension
• Dismissal from the academy

DYA reserves the right to determine appropriate disciplinary measures based on the circumstances involved.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to:

• Submit original work
• Practice honesty in all assignments and activities
• Refrain from cheating, plagiarism, or academic dishonesty
• Give proper credit to sources when appropriate

AI-generated work presented as original student work may be considered academic dishonesty.

Respect for Property

Students are expected to:

• Treat academy property and the property of others with care
• Refrain from vandalism, theft, or misuse of supplies and facilities

Parents may be financially responsible for damages caused by their student.

Safety and Well-Being

Students shall avoid behaviors that endanger themselves or others. Students are encouraged to report unsafe situations, threats, bullying, or concerning behavior to a trusted adult immediately.

Digital Citizenship & Technology Use

Students are expected to use technology responsibly and ethically. This includes:

• Respecting the privacy and dignity of others
• Avoiding inappropriate digital communication
• Refraining from cyberbullying, harassment, or sharing inappropriate material including, but not limited to music and videos.
• Not recording or photographing others without permission
• Using devices appropriately and not during classes and activities

Profanity or inappropriate digital use is prohibited during DYA activities.DYA reserves the right to address off-campus digital conduct if it substantially impacts the academy environment or student safety.

Dress Code

Our dress code is intended to promote modesty, respectfulness, and an appropriate educational environment. The following are not permitted:

• Net, mesh, or see-through clothing
• Halter tops, tube tops, midriff-baring tops, or revealing clothing
• Clothing that exposes undergarments or excessive cleavage
• Clothing with inappropriate cutouts
• Clothing displaying inappropriate words, symbols, graphics, or messages
• Short shorts

The stomach, back, sides, chest, cleavage, and undergarments must remain covered during normal movement, including reaching, bending, or sitting. Skirts should be approximately knee length. Shorts should be mid-thigh length. If leggings or tights are worn, shirts, dresses, or skirts must extend to mid-thigh length. Administration reserves the right to determine whether attire is appropriate for the academy environment.

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices

Electronic devices may only be used with teacher approval for educational purposes. If a device is used without permission during class:

• The device may be confiscated
• A parent/guardian may be required to retrieve the device
• Alternative classwork may be assigned

Repeated violations may result in additional disciplinary action and/or fees.

Violence, Threats, & Dangerous Conduct

Violence, threats of violence, intimidation, or conduct that jeopardizes the safety of others will not be tolerated. DYA reserves the right to:

• Remove a student from activities
• Contact parents immediately
• Suspend or dismiss students
• Contact law enforcement when necessary

If a student poses an immediate safety risk to themselves or others, trained staff may use reasonable intervention measures solely to prevent harm until emergency assistance or guardians arrive. Parents are responsible for emergency-related expenses.

Weapons & Prohibited Items

Weapons or dangerous items are prohibited on academy property or at DYA activities. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Firearms
• Knives
• Blades
• Tasers
• Brass knuckles
• Fireworks
• Illegal substances
• Alcohol
• Tobacco products
• Vapes/e-cigarettes
• Drug paraphernalia

Violation may result in immediate disciplinary action, including dismissal and/or law enforcement involvement.

Attendance & Absences

Regular attendance is expected. Parents should notify DYA regarding absences or tardiness. Whether or not a student attends scheduled class days, tuition payments remain due according to the enrollment agreement. High School students may only leave campus with authorization from a parent for each occurrence.

Illness Policy

If a student has:

• Vomited
• Had diarrhea
• Had a fever of 99°F or higher

They must remain home for at least 24 hours symptom-free before returning. If a student becomes ill during the academy day, parents will be contacted for pickup. Emergency personnel may be contacted if necessary. Parents remain financially responsible for emergency-related expenses.

Medical & Medication Policy

Parents are responsible for informing DYA of:

• Allergies
• Medical conditions
• Dietary restrictions
• Emergency medical needs

DYA is not a peanut-free or allergy-free facility. Students requiring emergency medications (such as inhalers or EpiPens) should notify administration and provide appropriate instructions/forms when necessary. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, parents remain responsible for medication administration.

Safety & Emergency Procedures

By enrolling, parents authorize DYA staff to respond appropriately in emergency situations until emergency personnel arrive. This may include:

• CPR
• Basic first aid
• Assistance during seizures
• The Heimlich maneuver
• Emergency response actions directed by emergency personnel

DYA conducts emergency preparedness procedures as needed, including fire, severe weather, evacuation, or lockdown protocols. Parents are responsible for emergency-related expenses.

Search & Confiscation Policy

DYA reserves the right to inspect backpacks, bags, personal belongings, or other items if there is reasonable concern regarding:

• Safety
• Weapons
• Illegal substances
• Prohibited materials
• Policy violations

Confiscated items may be returned to parents or turned over to law enforcement when appropriate.

Parent Conduct Policy

DYA values respectful and professional partnerships with families. Parents and guardians are expected to:

• Communicate respectfully with staff, students, and families
• Avoid harassment, threats, gossip, or defamatory behavior
• Follow appropriate conflict resolution procedures
• Refrain from disrupting classrooms, activities, or academy operations

DYA reserves the right to discontinue enrollment when parent or family conduct substantially interferes with the mission, safety, operations, or well-being of the academy community.

Photography & Media Release

Parents grant permission for photographs or videos containing their student to be used for:

• Social media
• Promotional materials
• Academy publications
• Website content

No compensation will be provided for such use.

Mandatory Reporting

DYA staff and volunteers may be mandatory reporters under applicable law and may report suspected abuse, neglect, threats, or unsafe situations to appropriate authorities when legally required.

Nondiscrimination Policy

Discipled Youth Academy admits students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students. DYA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, or academy-administered programs.

Homeschool Notice

Discipled Youth Academy is a tutoring and support program intended to enrich the homeschool experience and is not classified as a school. Families remain responsible for:

• Maintaining homeschool compliance
• Joining accountability associations if required
• Keeping educational records in accordance with applicable laws
• Keeping track of grades, documenting grades, completing grades and giving final grades 

Registration & Enrollment Information

Registration

Registration Forms:
 Registration Forms Need help?
 Call DYA at (843) 860-9037.After registration:

• Submit the required deposit
• Ensure your correct email address is provided
• Contact DYA if confirmation emails are not received

Deposits

• Returning Students: $60
• Single Student: $100
• Multiple Student Families: $150

The first month’s tuition is due July 18th.

Payment Options

• Zelle: 843-860-9037
• Venmo: @Ashleigh-Morris-32
• Check
• Cash

Tuition payments directly support instructors, facility costs, educational materials, and academy programs.

Tuition & Financial Agreement

By registering, parents enter into a binding financial agreement for the full 2026–2027 academic year. Tuition is divided into 10 payment cycles. Payments are due before each new four-week cycle begins. DYA does not prorate tuition or issue refunds for:

• Absences
• Closures
• Withdrawals
• Weather events
• Acts of God
• Schedule interruptions

Make-up days or online instruction may be provided at DYA’s discretion.

Change & Withdrawal Policy

Changes to enrollment or attendance schedules for K–12th grade students must be finalized by August 10, 2026.After that date, parents remain financially responsible for tuition unless otherwise approved by the Owner. Acceptable circumstances for possible release from financial responsibility may include:

• Parent unemployment
• Enrollment in public school
• Relocation more than 35 miles away
• Death of a parent or enrolled student

A four-week written notice or direct conversation with the Owner is required for requested changes whenever possible. Approval of financial release remains at the discretion of DYA administration.

Lunch & Food Information

Students must bring a packed lunch and water bottle each day. DYA is not a peanut-free or allergy-free facility. Parents of students with dietary restrictions or severe allergies should contact administration directly.

Non-Compliance

Repeated or significant violations of academy policies may result in:

• Parent conferences
• Probation
• Suspension
• Dismissal
• Denial of future enrollment

DYA reserves the right to determine appropriate disciplinary outcomes based on the circumstances involved.

Acknowledgment & Agreement

Parent/Guardian Agreement

I acknowledge that I have read and understood the Discipled Youth Academy Student & Parent Handbook and agree to abide by the policies, procedures, expectations, and financial terms outlined herein. Parent/Guardian Name: ___________________________________Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________________Date: _______________________

Student Agreement

I have read and understood the Discipled Youth Academy Student Code of Conduct. I commit to adhering to its principles and expectations and to honoring God in my words, actions, and behavior. Student Name: __________________________________________Student Signature: _______________________________________Date: _______________________

Emergency Contact Information

Primary Emergency Contact: _______________________________Phone Number: _________________________________________Secondary Emergency Contact: ____________________________Phone Number: _________________________________________

Thank you for partnering with Discipled Youth Academy as we pursue faith, learning, leadership, fellowship, and Christ-centered growth together.

Here is a downloadable copy.