In striving to provide an environment conducive to spiritual growth and development, we desire as few rules as necessary, knowing that submission to rules alone does not make one spiritual. However, to live together in harmony and accomplish the purpose to which God calls us, some level of disciplines is needed in the training process that may not be required later on.
Moral conviction and self?discipline are as important as academic excellence.
The conduct of students should reflect heart obedience to biblical principles. If God has clearly spoken on the subject, it is settled. Many situations, however, require applying biblical principles.
In trying to rightly divide the Word of Truth regarding the issue of conduct, the following statement will help students and staff to apply biblical principles as regards conduct:
Statement of Conduct
Students are expected to demonstrate loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ in every area of life. He is our example and each should discipline himself or herself to conform to that which honors Him. (I Peter 2:21, I Corinthians 9:27)
Dress Codes:
The staff uses discretion in governing dress codes. It boils down to cleanliness and modesty. If the staff feels that a student’s dress is immodest or offensive, that specific situation will be addressed. Please contact us if you have concerns about specific issues.
Attendance:
Students are expected to attend all the classes for the subject(s) in which they are enrolled. Unexcused absence from more than 25% of the classes for a subject will result in forfeiture of that subject. An exception to the 75% rule may be made if the absence is due to acceptable reasons, and if the student is able to satisfy the requirements for that subject (e.g. by completing additional assignments and/or field work). Granting or refusing this privilege will be at the discretion of the Institute.
Worship:
As mentioned in the Spiritual Life section, each student is expected to be active in a worship / prayer community. It is in the context of church life that issues of character change are to be faced and practical learning is to occur. Each student must maintain a journal of his or her experience and Christian service.
Differences:
Students are not expected to agree with everything that will be taught by the various courses. Students are, however, expected to treat the views of the instructors with respect. If a disagreement arises about issues that is being taught, the student should listen as openly as possible, giving due attention to anything that the Holy Spirit may be saying.
The student should not expect the Holy Spirit to speak to everyone in the same way, or lead everyone in the same direction. The Holy Spirit has a multifaceted plan to suit the extraordinary diversity that exists in the church. There is much that one can learn from others.
Questions:
Students are encouraged to ask questions during classroom discussions. However, if a student is challenging the validity of the subject matter, common courtesy dictates that a student should put their questions in writing to submit to Institute authorities. Though continuing dialogue is a part of the educational program, the student is encouraged to utilize their instructor as a senior discipler assisting the student to develop fuller understanding, knowledge and wisdom.
Agreement with the Student Code of Conduct and the Belief Statement:
Each student will be required to sign a statement of agreement on the application form indicating that they have read the sections of the catalog entitled Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Beliefs; and that the student is in agreement.