CITRUS PARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL INTRODUCTION. Dear Prospective Student:

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1 INTRODUCTION Dear Prospective Student: (CPCS) offers international students an excellent education in an American college preparatory high school. Students from around the globe will benefit from an American education at CPCS, and will also enjoy staying with host families and experiencing everyday life in America. We invite you to take a closer look at the wonderful opportunities we offer to students to gain a superb education and a great cultural experience in the beautiful state of Florida. We offer international students an opportunity to come to the United States and benefit from an authentic American high school experience while studying toward their high school diplomas. CPCS is a first-rate college preparatory school offering a wide range of regular and advanced courses for students who wish to be accepted into the college or university of their choice. In addition to our academic program, we offer a vast array of extracurricular activities ranging from volleyball, golf, tennis, cheerleading and soccer, to theater, dance and a choir. Our tuition includes a home stay with a host American family. Our home stay parents are mainly staff or parents of CPCS students who deeply care about the academic and social success of their young guests. In this way, students can become fully immersed in American culture and the American way of life. As international students, most of you will be in the upper grades and will join your American counterparts in sophomore, junior, and senior classes. You will experience the American lifestyle with your new friends, and you will impart your culture to them in a mutually rewarding and beneficial cross-cultural exchange. also affords all students the opportunity to study the Bible and learn more about God s word through a Jesus Christ centered, Christian Bible class program. The mission of CPCS is to glorify God in all that we do. We strive to teach all students, both local and international, that they must demonstrate excellence at every level of academic, athletic, and artistic involvement. They must also develop strength of character and learn to serve their global community as servant leaders for Christ. is located in the quaint, lovely, but bustling city of Tampa and is centrally located on the Florida Sun Coast, close to beautiful beaches, famous theme parks, museums, and professional sports venues. Tampa Bay features the cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg and is served by Tampa International Airport. Accomplished tennis players and novices alike will enjoy playing on our tennis teams during the spring semester. We also offer field school soccer teams, basketball and American football teams in scholastic leagues. All of our students are encouraged to play sports, and you too can make the team at CPCS. Our academic programs yield a 100% college acceptance rate, and over 90% of our graduates receive scholarships! We are accredited by the prestigious Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS), and by the Middle States Association. You can expect one of the finest college preparatory experiences available anywhere in America in an atmosphere that fully respects and celebrates the diversity you, as international students, bring to our school. International students are not separated into different language classes, but are fully immersed in all subjects with the American students. This rigorous schedule will help students to prepare for the TOEFL, SAT, and ACT. Our teachers are very supportive of our international students for whom English is not a first language. CPCS is situated close to downtown Tampa, Florida, and features eight buildings, including a wonderful gymnasium and sports facility, a library, computer lab, and many modern amenities which enhance the fine academic and arts programs offered at the school. The campus sits in the middle of a myriad of retail stores, malls, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Under the leadership of our distinguished American educators, CPCS is American education at its best. Come join our international family of students and become part of a great school! Mrs. Karen Jeffers, Middle & High School Principal kjeffers@citruspark.org USA Phone: (813) ext.: 212 Fax: (813)

2 PROGRAMS THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM: A CLOSER LOOK The school provides young people with a broad view of the world and of their place in it as active and thoughtful citizens. Students are encouraged to explore many avenues of learning as they receive a solid preparation for the collegiate path they will choose. students go on to some of the finest universities in America and abroad. A FLEXIBLE CURRICULUM The CPCS Curriculum is designed to provide students with solid academic training in the Bible, liberal arts, sciences, mathematics, social science, computer science, and the performance arts, while providing flexibility for the individual needs of each student. Courses are scheduled on grade levels; students may also enroll in courses outside their grade level depending on the student s individual needs and ability. Qualified upper school students may attend classes at nearby colleges and universities at no additional cost. Upon the successful completion of the high school degree, international students may be eligible for entry into many Florida colleges and universities, and may qualify for partial scholarships. At CPCS, learners may also work with administration to develop particular courses of individual independent study through Florida Virtual School. Courses are designed to lead students in mastering the essential knowledge of a subject and the skill set accompanying that course in order to prepare for a high school diploma and university entry. SPORTS AND HEALTH EDUCATION A complete physical education program is part of the regular class schedule for all students. Sports activities include basketball, soccer, tennis, softball, track, volleyball, and cheerleading. In addition, our students may arrange independently to join golf, equestrian, or swimming clubs in the area. CULTURAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM There are many educational, culturally enriching, and fun field trips and activities scheduled throughout the year at CPCS. Home stay guests also enjoy the hospitality of their host families and engage in a wide variety of family activities in the evenings as well as on weekends. Students learn and practice their English language skills in real-world as well as in academic settings, thus enhancing the opportunity to really master the language. We offer a window on America, as you provide us a window on the World. 2

3 STUDENT LIFE CITRUS PARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL is located on the west coast of Florida in Tampa, just north of the cities of St. Petersburg and Clearwater. The area enjoys easy access to many of Florida s finest beaches, parks and attractions as well as cultural facilities. The school is a half-hour drive from Tampa International Airport. Activities include athletics, musical performance, drama, art classes, and field trips designed to enhance the curriculum. There is also an optional Senior Trip to Europe. CPCS encourages students to get involved in school activities. Through participation, students develop a sense of community and learn valuable skills in leadership and cooperation. Our Bible curriculum that students will participate in daily will provide the students with the opportunity to develop a close, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Activities are also available that are closely tied to First Baptist Church of Citrus Park, as well as many other local churches and civic organizations. First Baptist Church of Citrus Park home to the school Fun before the weekly chapel service Sophomores hanging out in class Clearwater Beach 3

4 CALENDAR FALL SEMESTER 2014 SPRING SEMESTER 2015 AUGUST 11 Mandatory Student Orientation 12 First Day of School SEPTEMBER 1 Labor Day Holiday OCTOBER 13 Columbus Day Holiday 14 End of first 9 weeks 15 PSAT Test School Spirit Week 24 Homecoming NOVEMBER Thanksgiving Holidays DECEMBER 6 Winter Festival 8-12 Gingerbread Shop Semester Exams 19 End of Second 9 weeks Holidays begin JANUARY 5 Classes resume High School Retreat 19 MLK Day Holiday 24 College SAT Test FEBRUARY 6 FL State Fair Holiday 7 College ACT Test 16 President s Day Holiday MARCH 6 End of Third 9 weeks 9-13 Spring Break 14 College SAT Test 30-4/2 Achievement Testing APRIL 3-6 Easter Holiday 18 College ACT Test MAY Senior Exams 17 Baccalaureate 21 Graduation High School Exams 25 Memorial Day Holiday 28 Last day of school 4

5 TUITION & FEES Tuition and Fees Tuition Amount: $40,790 Emergency Fund: $2,000 (to be carried over year-to-year and replenished as necessary) The Fees include: Tuition for One School Year All Academic Activity Fees Books Student Activity Fee Transportation to and from school on Application Fee a daily basis Registration Fee Home Stay for 10 months Administration Fees 3 meals a day, and a night snack including Miscellaneous Fee milk and fruits International Student Fee Hot Lunch at school Locker and Lock Rental Fee Medical Insurance Athletic Fee ESL Fees Yearbook Fee SEVIS Fees Fees do not include personal pocket money, phone calls, and personal belongings. Recommended personal spending money: $150 per month. Payment Expectations $5,000 deposit after generating pre-acceptance Remainder payable 4 weeks before arrival Payments may be made at the beginning of each semester (half of the yearly fee in August and half in January). Payments may be made by credit card or electronic transfer of funds. (See application for admission.) Individual financial plans can also be arranged between August and May by the Director of the. 5

6 ACADEMICS A minimum of 26 academic credits, including transfer credits, is required for the diploma. Diploma students must complete a course in U.S. History and remain enrolled at the School for at least one year. Students may also enroll for a semester or a year and return to their original school to complete their studies for a diploma from the original school. Course Requirements By Credits: English 4 English as a Second Language qualifies Bible 4 Or one class each year of attendance Computer Education 1 Several options for this class Health & Physical Education 1 Combined in one class Social Studies 3 U.S. History required Science 4 Biology and Chemistry with Laboratory required Mathematics 4 Algebra 1 or higher Arts 2 1 Performing Art and 1 Practical Art Foreign Language 2 Spanish (Requirement waived for those with mother tongues other than English) Electives 2 Students may choose more electives depending on transfer credits or credits waived Total 26 *All students are required to take at least 7 classes each semester. In order to qualify for a diploma, students must, at a minimum, complete their senior year (two semesters) at CPCS. A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 is required for graduation, as well as completion of 30 community service hours for each year you are a student at CPCS. SAMPLE COURSES AVAILABLE AT CITRUS PARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Class of 2014 in Europe on Senior Trip English World Literature Pre-Calculus AP Physics World History Introduction to the Bible Sociology AP English Language Computer Programming Art Philosophy AP English Literature Physical Science Biology Economics AP US History Algebra I Geometry World Religions AP Biology Musical Theatre Spanish Life Management AP Statistics Culinary Arts AP Calculus Sign Language Algebra II American Literature British Literature Anatomy & Physiology Physics U.S. History U.S. Government Business Math Chemistry We prepare students for the future by offering college preparatory courses in the arts, humanities, sciences, and mathematics. We offer international students an opportunity to earn an American high school diploma. SAT preparation is part of our curriculum for 11th and 12th graders. All students are required to take at least 7 classes each semester. The high school diploma requires four years of study, including any transfer credits from previous years. Most students graduate with more than the minimum of 26 credits over 4 years. Regular high school courses are generally set by grade level. In addition to the regular college preparatory classes, CPCS offers Honors and Advanced Placement classes for students. Also, Upper School students may earn college credits while attending CPCS through the Dual Enrollment opportunities available for students. Mandatory Attendance: 180 school days Students who have more than 10 unexcused absences in a semester may face loss of credit for a course or for all courses where absences occur. Do not plan travel while school is in session (see Calendar). 6

7 HOW TO APPLY Thank you for your interest in. In order to complete the application process, you will need the required documents and items for application: Official transcripts with translation A completed application form A copy of passport A copy of the bank statement showing that you have sufficient funds for studying in the USA A signed Statement of Financial Support A proof of vaccination for measles A medical liability waiver signed by your parents/guardians Proof of medical insurance. International travel is part of our educational experience at CPCS. Proof of recent medical examination After we have received your complete application package (as listed above), our Administration will review your application as detailed in the Admissions section of this application. Upon acceptance, we will issue your I-20 and send it, along with your Letter of Acceptance, for you to take to your local Embassy where you will apply for your Student Visa. Please carefully review your entire application package before submitting it; any missing or incomplete information will delay the Administration in reviewing your application. Unless you are planning to live with an adult relative, a home stay will be arranged for you through CPCS. Fees may be paid per semester. In the unlikely event that you are denied an F1 Student Visa, your deposit, minus expenses, will be refunded. We require a proof of denial of the visa in order to affect the refund. Upon the receipt of the documents listed above, you will be issued a letter of pre-acceptance, at which time your $5,000 deposit will be due. You may fax the documents we require and mail the originals separately if you wish. This will help speed up the process of applying for a Student Visa. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions. Sincerely, Mrs. Karen Jeffers, Middle & High School Principal kjeffers@citruspark.org USA Phone: (813) ext.: 212 Fax: (813) For payment by credit card, you may contact our Cashier, Mrs. Cassie Boccabello, via at: cboccabello@citruspark.org or by phone at (813) ext For our bank information for money wire transfer, please also contact the cashier. 7

8 ADMISSIONS ADMISSIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS All inquiries to from international students are referred initially to the Administrator, Mrs. Jeffers. When contact is made through a phone call or , the applicant is referred to the school s website for more detailed information about the school. Each applicant must provide the following: official transcripts with translation, completed application form, copy of a bank statement showing sufficient funds for study in the USA, signed Statement of Financial Support, proof of vaccination for measles, medical liability waiver signed by parent/guardian, proof of medical insurance, and proof of recent medical examination. The applicant must also submit a written statement that the student and his or her parents/guardians understand the school s mission and expectations for academic study. Before writing this statement, both parents and students must review the Student/ Parent Handbook on the website and be familiar with those policies of the school. Only students who are committed to attending college or university following graduation are admitted to the school. Once the application and all other materials and documents have been submitted to CPCS, the Administration carefully reviews each application by evaluating the student s original transcripts which describe coursework completed and grades awarded in each class. These transcripts must be translated so that the Administration may determine the content of each course and the student s level of proficiency. In addition, standardized test scores, teacher remarks, and recommendations are used to evaluate the student s past academic performance. If the Administration determines that the applicant meets the academic requirements for admission, and after all necessary documentation has been submitted to the school, then the student will have an online interview with the Administrator and Dean of Students via Skype. The student takes a comprehensive placement test in English proficiency and mathematics during the first week of classes. Using the test results and in conjunction with the student s past academic coursework, the Administration and classroom teachers determine the course of study which will best meet the student s needs. Students with English proficiency are placed in the college preparatory classes. CPCS does NOT offer language classes to non-english speakers. Any student not able to converse in English should work on those skills and apply in the future. This evaluation process is ongoing. In the admissions process, consideration of applicants is given equally, regardless of race, gender, creed, and national or ethnic origin. Students from all over the world are welcomed and are fully integrated into the Citrus Park family. 8