St. Clare Catholic Academy Parent Handbook

Transcription

1 St. Clare Catholic Academy Parent Handbook Brookville Blvd. Rosedale, NY Phone: Fax: Website: stclarerosedale.com 1

2 St. Clare of Assisi Feast Day: August 11 Saint Clare is believed to have been born on July 16, 1194 in Assisi. While there is uncertainty to the exact date of her birth, there is no question to the fact that she was the oldest of three girls of the wealthy Offreduccio Family. There was nothing extraordinary of her early years. Clare along with her sisters enjoyed the life of a rich family of the times. Clare spent her youthful days learning music, fine embroidery and how to entertain guests at social gatherings. A woman of Clare s status had no need of cooking skills since she would always have servants in the kitchen. Clare s mother, Ortolana, was very religious and taught all her children about Jesus and the importance of Sunday Mass and prayer. Clare s father, Faverone, was happy about the beautiful and gentle woman she was becoming. By her seventeenth year he had found her a wealthy man to be her husband. Clare seemed to be the luckiest girl in the world. She had it all but she did not feel as happy and peaceful as she thought she should. There were many poor people in Assisi and the surrounding towns and this at times disturbed her. While growing up, Clare was very popular at the parties held for the wealthy young people of Assisi. No doubt she first met St. Francis at such events before he left all worldly goods behind. When she was about 17 Clare again met Francis. This time he and his brothers were enthusiastically preaching about Jesus and caring for the poor. This message and the tremendous joy that Francis and his followers demonstrated challenged Clare to think about her own life. She found Francis and his brothers to be filled with more peace than her father and uncles who were some of the most successful men in Assisi. But they were always worried about someone or something. Clare went to the Lenten Sermons Francis preached in 1211 and then met privately with him. They spoke of the beauty of poverty, caring for the poor and sick and living like Jesus. She then knew what she wanted to do with her life. On Palm Sunday of 1212, Clare decided to elope not with the man to whom her family promised her but to Jesus. Wearing her best dress and jewelry, she went to the Portiuncula where Francis and his followers held lighted candles and sang the psalms. There, Clare Offreduccio promised her life to Jesus. She removed her wealthy clothes and jewels and embracing poverty put on a rough gray robe and wooden sandals. Then St. Francis himself cut off Clare s long and beautiful hair as she renounced the world. Because she was the first woman to follow Francis and there was no place for her to stay, Francis directed her to live with a group of Benedictine Sisters where she would learn about convent life and living in community. Clare s father was furious that his oldest daughter joined Francis and his followers. He tried to remove her by force from the monastery where Clare was. She ran into the chapel and literally held on to the Altar as her relatives tried to take her home. Because she was so steadfast and resolute, her family let her stay. Others began to join Francis and Clare in their work and prayer including Clare s own sister Agnes. They soon founded a convent for the sisters at the church of San Damiano. After her father died, Clare s own mother would join the community as well as other wealthy women from the town and from as far away as the great city of Florence. 2

3 Francis appointed Clare as the women s superior in They would soon be known as Poor Clares. Wearing no shoes, fasting often, perpetually abstaining from meat and sleeping on the hard wood floors the sisters radically embraced a life of poverty and penance. Their embrace of poverty was only equaled by their embrace of prayer. Taking a vow of silence they rarely spoke except to sing God s praises in the psalms and in prayer. Francis, Clare and their followers vowed not to have any possessions. It was an extremely tough vow and no other group of religious at that time made such a promise. It was a way of life that made some in the Church uneasy. When St. Francis died in 1226, Clare was to insure that this embrace of Sister Poverty was to be incorporated into the Sisters Rule. As tough and extreme as their lives were, it did not stop the community from growing in numbers. Many from all over Europe came to Assisi and were moved by the prayer and joyful spirit of Clare and her sisters. Some in turn returned home and founded convents of Poor Clares in their own towns and cities. One story of the power of St. Clare s prayer regards the invasion of the Saracens in As the invading forces surrounded and attacked Assisi, they made their way to the city they first encountered San Damiano the convent where Clare and her sisters lived because it was outside the city walls. As the warriors approached, Clare s sisters panicked and roused Clare from her sick bed. She in turn led them in prayer and as the invaders began to show themselves over the convent walls, she took the monstrance from the chapel with the consecrated Host and showed it to the Saracens. Upon seeing Clare holding the Blessed Sacrament the enemy first froze in their tracks and then gripped with a feeling of terror began to retreat. While they never returned to the convent again, Clare s sisters knew that illness had Clare firmly in its grasp. At Christmas in 1252, her last on earth, Clare was not well enough to go to Midnight Mass at the Church of St. Francis with her sisters and the friars. She became very lonely and began to cry. Then realizing that her lonely cell was better lodging than had Mary and Joseph, she began to meditate on the Christmas Mystery. Suddenly her cell burst into light, her cell walls were shaken by the sound of a great organ and she was able to see the Church of St. Francis ablaze with candles. She watched the Celebrant ascend the Altar and participated at Mass listening to the beautiful chants. She had been unable to go to Church and God in His loving tenderness had brought Church to her. Clare and her sisters became popular without leaving their lives of prayer, work and silence. Word of their radical life spread through the land. Many women wanted to join in their ranks. Clare was so renowned for her holiness that the pope and countless others came to her deathbed. In the midst of her sisters and three friars she died on August 11, Because of her renowned sanctity of life, the Church opened her process to becoming a canonized saint just over two months after her death on October 18, During that process much more about the Humble Lady of Assisi was discovered by exploring her writings and listening to the many accounts of those who knew her. Pope Alexander IV finally proclaimed her a saint on August 15, On February 17, 1958, Pope Pius XII declared her the Patroness of those involved in Television and the Media. Today there are hundreds of Poor Clare convents all over the world. Compiled by Fr. John O'Connor 3

4 St. Clare Catholic Academy Mission Statement: The aim of St. Clare Catholic Academy is to promote Christian values to enhance morality, and to develop self-respect for others. We strive to create a safe and compassionate environment where each child is encouraged to recognize his/her place in God s plan as set forth in the message of the Good News. We pray that all our students will take advantage of every opportunity to learn, achieve, and succeed. We challenge our students to perform to their highest potential, focus on reaching and maintaining adequate foundation towards further learning. We will try to create a happy and stimulating environment providing all our students with an array of unlimited opportunities to improve their lives. St. Clare Catholic Academy does not discriminate on the basis of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school as well as in the administration of educational policies, admission policies, loan programs and athletic or other school administered programs. St. Clare Catholic Academy is a Catholic School and Catholic Doctrine is taught in every grade. We encourage our students, Catholic and Non-Catholic, to participate in the religious activities of their faiths. Faith is not just theoretical knowledge but is shown in how we choose to celebrate our lives. We urge all our students to make moral choices both now and in the future. We thank all the students for their support, hard work, enthusiasm, generosity, and service which contribute toward a true family spirit at St. Clare Catholic. 4

5 Index and Corresponding Pages: Board Members Page 6 How to contact us Page 6 Faculty and Staff Page 7 Policies: Academic Policy Page 8 Homework Policy Page 8 Promotion and Retention Page 9 Admissions Policy Page 10 Financial Policy Page 11 Refund Policy Page 15 Credit Policy Page 15 Student Computer Use Policy Page 15 Anti-bullying policy Page 17 Attendance Policy Page 19 Cell Phone Policy Page 20 Uniform Policy Page 21 Field trip Policy Page 23 Honor Awards Criteria Page 23 Report Cards Page 25 Progress Reports Page 25 Standardized Assessment Page 25 Academic Intervention Page 26 Forms of Communication Page 26 Parental Responsibility Page 27 Early Pick Up Page 27 Programs: Lunch Program Page 28 Free Breakfast Program Page 28 After School Program Page 28 Morning Program Page 29 Student Responsibilities Page 29 Code of Conduct Page 29 Arrival Page 33 Dismissal Page 33 Medical Information Page 31 School Safety Page 32 Student Permanent Records Page 33 Non Custodial Parents Page 34 Right to Amend Handbook Page 34 5

6 Board Members: Charmaine Chung Chair Nica Chery-Mompremier Vice Chair Jean Robert Eliscar Treasurer Tamara Stephen - Secretary Maureen Murphy Board Member Irnel Stephen Board Member Principal Mary Rafferty-Basile Important numbers: Main Office After School Fax School Nurse School Counselor, Sister Marge St. Clare Church (Mon. and Wed.) Religious Education Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:00AM- 3:30 PM Rectory School Hours: After School Program hours Full Days: Full Days: Pre-k to grade 6-8:10 AM 2:20 PM 2:30 to 6:30 PM for grades Pre-K to 6 th 7 and 8 grade- 8:10 AM 3:00 PM 3:00 to 6:30 PM for grades 7 th and 8 th Half-Days: Pre-K to grade 8-12:00 PM Half-Days: 12 to 6:30 PM for Pre-K to 8 th grade Morning Program: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM 6

7 This list is subject to change. FACULTY DIRECTORY When contacting a member of St. Clare Catholic Academy Faculty or Staff, please allow 24 hours for a return phone call or . You can leave a message for a teacher or staff member by calling or them at: Mrs. Hegmann jhegmannstclare@gmail.co m Mrs. Pinnock jpinnockstclareschool@gmail.com Mrs. Basile Mrs. Kanhai vkanhaistclare@gmail.com Mrs. Davanzo ldavanzostclare@gmail.com Ms. Graham sgrahamstclare@gmail.com Mrs. Atangan jatanganstclare@gmail.com Ms. Samuel ssamuelstclare@gmail.com Miss Lupfer nlupferstclare@gmail.com Ms. Crosswell scrosswellstclare@gmail.co m Mrs. Maynard dmaynardstclare@gmail.co m Miss Hamilton khamiltonstclare@gmail.co m Mrs. Gangi tgangistclare@gmail.com Mr. Lundy Miss Rea rreastclare@gmail.com Mrs. Baptiste cbaptistestclare@gmail.com Mrs. Paladino mpalidinostclare@gmail.com Miss C misscstclare@gmail.com Mrs. R. mrs.rstclare@gamil.com Mrs. Bonhomme 7

8 ACADEMIC POLICIES Academic Expectations: Students attending St. Clare Catholic Academy are expected to earn a minimum of 70 % in each subject and a Progress Code of a minimum of 3. Should a student not meet this expectation he/she may not be invited back the following year. HOMEWORK POLICY The purpose of homework is to reinforce learning and to meet individual needs. Parents can expect homework at least 4 times a week for students in grades 1-8. Homework will be posted on the school website by 5 PM each evening. Homework is posted on the school website to inform parents of the assignments given. Students are not to rely on the school website to receive assignments. Students are responsible for writing homework down each day in an assignment book. Students are expected to have homework completed, neat and submitted on time. Students are expected to study each night. Students are responsible for assignments and homework when not present in class. Homework that is handed in late, if accepted by the teacher, will receive a deduction in grade. Parents are expected to play an active role in helping and insuring that homework is neat, completed and handed in on time. Grades: Student progress is made available to parents via Progress Reports, Report Cards, during Conferences and on Option C. Each parent has a unique password to view their child s progress on Option C. Should a parent misplace the password please contact the main office. Parents have the right and are encouraged to contact the child s teacher in the event that clarification is needed regarding academic or other performance of the child. However, the parent must advise the teacher in writing to schedule a conference. The principal is most willing 8

9 to offer assistance in any parent conference. However, the teacher must be conferred with initially before the principal will become involved in a conference with the parent/teacher. Teachers are responsible for the supervision of students at all times. Therefore, unscheduled meetings cannot be held in the morning once the 8:10am bell has rung. A parent is never permitted to speak to a teacher regarding a child at a classroom door during school hours. All parents must report to the school office before a meeting with the teacher. PROMOTION AND RETENTION POLICY All students in grades Pre-K-7 must successfully pass all subjects in order to be promoted to the next grade level. Failure in one or more subject areas will necessitate summer school for the subject failed in order for promotion and to return to the Academy the following September. Students failing three or more subjects are candidates for retention. The principal decides upon all promotions and retentions. The principal will consult with the Guidance Counselor, teachers and parents and based on a total evaluation of the pupil s growth in all areas of development, will make the final decision for promotion or retention. Please Note: Parents of students, who are potential holdovers, will be notified in writing after the second trimester. It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure the child receives remediation through outside tutoring if retention is a possibility. 9

10 ADMISSION POLICY NEW STUDENTS Since it is our aim to educate the whole child, immediately following each trimester report card, new students are evaluated. If, at this time, we feel your child is not making sufficient progress, he/she may be asked to leave St. Clare Catholic Academy. Please keep in mind that all transfer (new) students are accepted on a probationary basis for the entire school year. Severe problems may necessitate immediate withdrawal from the school. GRADUATION FROM THE 8 th GRADE 1. All 8 th grade students must successfully pass all subjects in the 8 th grade in order to graduate. Failure in two or more subject areas will necessitate summer school for the failed subject(s). Upon successful completion of summer school, the diploma will be issued. 2. Failure of three or more subjects, he/she may not be promoted or graduated from St. Clare Catholic Academy. The student must repeat 8 th grade at a local school. 3. All tuition fees and other monetary obligations must be completed. A student whose family is in arrears will not be permitted to attend any graduation activities including the graduation ceremony. 4. All graduation activities are PRIVILEGES. Any student who exhibits poor academics and/or behavior may not be allowed to attend any/all graduation activities. APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Fill out the front and back of the Registration Application. ( available in main office or on website) 2. Read and sign the back of the Financial Policy and the St. Clare Catholic Academy Contract. Your child will not be registered if the Financial Policy and Contract is not signed. ( available in main office or on website) 3. Fill out the Religious Census form. ( available in main office or on website) 4. Attach a check or money order for the following fee: $75.00 for Application Fee (non-refundable) 10

11 5. Submit the application along with the following paperwork: Birth Certificate Baptismal Certificate if your child is Catholic Proof of Address (i.e. utility bill, bank statement) Social Security Card for your child Proof of Immunizations Copy of most current report card, and final report card from previous grade. Copy of Standardized Test Scores from 3rd grade on up Please Note: Any applications missing paperwork or the Application Fee will be put in a hold file until all paperwork & fees have been received. All new students are on probation for the entire first year at St. Clare Catholic Academy; therefore, your child s acceptance is conditional upon periodic academic and social evaluations by teachers and administration. Acceptance notification will be by . Please make sure you print your address clearly on the application. Once accepted a registration fee of $ will be required (see Financial Policy). Attached with the acceptance letter will be a Health Form, Bus Application Form, Tuition Coupon Sheet, Early Morning/After-school Form and Flynn & O Hara Uniform Information. (Flynn & O Hara is the ONLY official uniform company for St. Clare Catholic Academy.) FINANCIAL POLICY NEW STUDENTS Applications: Parents of prospective students must submit a $75.00 application fee with all the necessary paperwork. Registration: Upon acceptance, a fee of $ per child will be due. Once registration is accepted, your child s seat is secure until June 15 th, 2013, when your tuition payments begin and will remain secure as long as your account is current. RE-REGISTRATION The re-registration fee is due at the time of re-registration in order for you to reserve a seat for your child for the school year. Your tuition must be up to date in order for your reregistration to be accepted. Once re-registration is accepted, your child s seat is secure until June 15th, 2013, when your tuition payments begin and will remain secure as long as your account is current. 11

12 RE-REGISTRATION RATES Re register between January 22 and January 25, 2013 Re-register after January 25, 2013 One Child $ One Child $ Two Children $ Two Children $ Three Children $ Three Children $ BOOK, ART, MUSIC, and COMPUTER FEES There is one fee to cover the cost of books, art materials, music materials and computer materials due May 1, This fee must be paid before your tuition will be accepted. Families registering after May 1 st will be given 15 days after the date of acceptance to submit book, art, music, and computer fees. Grades Pre-K and Kindergarten - $145 Grades 1 st through 8 th - $ TUITION RATES CATHOLIC An official Baptismal Certificate verifying your child s baptism in the Catholic Church must be produced. Pre K - $3, Kindergarten through 8 th Grade One Child $3, Two Children $6, Three Children $8, NON CATHOLIC For any child who was not baptized in the Catholic Church or no official certificate is produced. Pre K - $3, Kindergarten through 8 th Grade One Child $4, Two Children $6, Three Children $8, FAMILY PARTICIPATION FEE A $ fee will be added to the tuition rates above. The fee is only added into your tuition one time regardless of the number of children you have registered. Families who participate in fundraisers (candy sales, walk-a-thon, etc) totaling $400.00, will receive a credit of $ to their March 15, 2014 payment. PAYMENT OPTIONS PAYMENT IN FULL Full payment of tuition must be made by June 28th th, 2013, less a discount of $ This discount is given only if payment is received by St. Clare Catholic Academy by June 28 th, 2013, and only if all prior year balances and current year fees are paid. New families registering after June 28 th, 2013, will have 30 days from their acceptance date to pay in full to receive the discount of $ RETURN OF DEPOSITED CHECK Your account will be charged $30.00 for checks that are returned unpaid by your financial institution. If your check is returned unpaid a second time, you will be required to pay tuition by money order or certified check only. 12

13 ST. CLARE CATHOLIC ACADEMY PAYMENT PLAN St. Clare Catholic Academy offers a payment plan for families who do not pay in full. Parents may pay tuition in 10 (ten) monthly payments beginning June 15 th, 2013 and ending March 15 th, There is no interest added but a late charge of $20.00 will apply if paid after the five day grace period due date. You will receive coupons showing your monthly payment amount with your new student application or re-registration acceptance. Payments can be mailed to St. Clare Catholic Academy, walked into the school main office, or sent in by your child with the monthly coupon in an envelope clearly marked tuition. New families registering after June 15 th, 2013, will be placed on a payment plan from the month of acceptance through March The first payment will be due 15 days from date of acceptance and the 15 th of each month thereafter. All tuition payments must be paid in full by March 15 th, Any account that becomes delinquent may result in a Parent/Guardian being scheduled to meet with the Financial Tuition Board. PENALTIES FOR NON-PAYMENT OF TUITION, FEES, EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM, AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Timely payment of your tuition and fees is essential in providing a quality education for our students. In fairness to families meeting their financial responsibilities, certain penalties must be charged for failing to make payments. Failure to meet all financial obligations will result in the following actions by the school. Students will not be permitted to participate in scheduled classes and sponsored activities, including class trips, extracurricular activities, graduation, and will not be able to receive report cards until all obligations are fulfilled. All outstanding tuition and fees must be paid in full as a condition of acceptance into the school for the term beginning September No student will be registered for the new term until all balances are paid. If your account remains delinquent for an extended period of time, your account will be placed in a collection agency. FINANCIAL AID There are various scholarships that are awarded each year. Information and guidelines for these scholarships will be made available to you as we receive them. We recommend that all families apply for the available scholarships. 13

14 INCENTIVE The best kind of advertisement is word of mouth. Please spend the word to your family and friends about the excellent catholic education your child is receiving from St. Clare Catholic Academy. If a new family registers, that was recommended by you and remains at St. Clare Catholic Academy in good financial standing, you will receive a one-time credit of $ on your March 15, 2014 payment for the school year. For those who have paid in full, you will receive a check for $ This credit is given only the first year the family attends St. Clare Catholic Academy. Please remind the perspective family to mention your name at the time of registration. EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM St. Clare Catholic Academy offers a morning program, after school program, and extracurricular activities to all students. Accounts for these programs must be current in order for students to continue attending these programs. Please see the Penalties for non-payment of tuition, fees, extended day program, and extracurricular activities for further actions. MAKING TUITION PAYMENTS Please be advised that we have moved the financial office out of the General office. The financial office is located on the first floor and payments for tuition and all school related fees can be paid in one of the following ways: Payable through your child: CHECKS ONLY Please - In an envelope send your check and payment coupon. Please clearly mark on the outside of the envelope the student s name and what the payment is for. Send the payment in with your child and during the morning homeroom it will be collected and sent to the financial office. Payable in Person: The financial office will be open daily 8:00am to 9:00am and 2:00pm to 3:00pm while school is in session. At this time, you can make payments and discuss accounts. If this time is not convenient for you, please contact me at ext 28 to schedule another time. Mail: Send your payment to St. Clare Catholic Academy at Brookville Blvd. Rosedale, NY Please be sure to enclose your tuition coupon so your payment can be posted to your account. The general office will not be accepting payments as a security precaution. 14

15 REFUND POLICY Tuition is a fee to educate a child. Once a child is registered, that child has a guaranteed seat at St. Clare Catholic Academy until June 15th, Once your tuition payments begin your child s seat is secure as long as your account is current. The Registration fee, Re-registration fee, Book fee and Application fee are NON- REFUNDABLE. Tuition is not prorated once classes have begun for the year. Should a Parent/Guardian choose to transfer their child after September 4 th 2013 that family is responsible for the full tuition. CREDIT POLICY All credits you may receive throughout the year are credited to your tuition account. If your tuition account is paid in full at the time you are eligible for a credit, a refund check will be issued to you. STUDENT COMPUTER USE POLICY St. Clare Catholic Academy (the school or SCCA ) has established a computer network with access to the Internet for its students. This network has been established for limited educational purposes only. St. Clare Catholic Academy has made every effort, through filtering devices, to eliminate inappropriate material, language, and pictures. No filtering device is 100 % effective. Be aware that it is possible that inappropriate material may slip past the filtering device. By agreeing to this policy the student(s) and the parents and/or guardians fully agree to the following: ~ There is NO RIGHT TO PRIVACY when using the school's resources. Administration, faculty, and other authorized persons have the right to review any and all material saved, transmitted, accessed or momentarily in use by the student. ~ There is NO ABSOLUTE RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH when using the school's computer resources, which is viewed by the administration as a limited educational forum. ~ All access to the school's computer resources will be permitted only under supervision of a member of the school staff. 15

16 ~ The student agrees that all information transmitted through the use of the school's computer resources ( , web page, or other Internet postings) will be sent or received under the direct, immediate supervision of a member of the school's staff with explicit permission of that member. ~ The student agrees to never transmit via the school's computer resources any personal information about themselves or another member of the school community. This includes but not limited to name, age, phone number, , etc. ~The student agrees to never arrange for a meeting with any person at any time using the school's computer resources. ~ The student agrees to stay on the daily task and never navigate away from the website that is being used. Unless instructed to do so. ~ The student agrees to never access, transmit, or retransmit any information containing sexually oriented material. ~ The student agrees to never tamper with any software and/or hardware that guards the school's computer network, system, and Internet that protects the schools resources. ~ The student agrees to use all software and/or hardware for educational purposes only. The student will not access any unauthorized files, applications, websites etc. ~ The student will not transmit or engage in any inappropriate, obscene, rude, threatening, inflammatory, disrespectful, personal or prejudicial attacks. ~ The student agrees never to use the school's computer resources to plagiarize. Plagiarism is defined as taking the idea or writing of others and presenting them as one's own. ~ The student will not download or save any programs, images, movies, sounds, music or other content without prior approval by school staff. ~ The student will not change user names and passwords provided by them from the school. ~ The student in grades 6-8 will receive an address for the sole purpose of school communications and projects only. It will not be the students personal account. This address will be monitored by school staff and the password will never be changed unless done so by school administration. The use of the account must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of SCCA. ~ The student will not access another students information, file, work etc. - change, copy, edit, or delete this information without the consent of the other student. 16

17 ~ The student agrees to NEVER intentionally damage the hard/soft ware and equipment of the SCCA computers and system. ~ The school will not be held responsible for the actions of a student who is in violation of any of the terms of this policy. ~ A student found in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline including, but not limited to, temporary removal from the school's system, permanent removal from the system, or other appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the rules and regulations of the school, including suspension or termination. ~Social Networking- Student behavior is expected to conform to values consistent with the Catholic faith, both inside and outside the school setting, including relating to computer use and participation in social networking. ~ Any computer use or use of social networking sites to display any word or images of any SCCA student engaged in any activity which, in the sole discretion of the school administration, is inappropriate, crude, vulgar, or a violation of values consistent with the Catholic faith, or is illegal in any respect, will be subject to disciplinary action, including, without limitation, suspension, expulsion and/or legal action. ~ Any computer use by any student, in school or at home, which included viewing or distributing any images, wording, messages or material which are, in the sole discretion of the school administration, obscene, harassing, racist, inflammatory, malicious, fraudulent or libelous will be subject to disciplinary action, including, without limitation, suspension, expulsion and/ or legal action. ~ Personal messages are not to be posted on including but not limited to bulletin boards, social networking sites, blogs etc. during school hours. ANTI-BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY Purpose: The school communities within the Brooklyn Diocese believe in the sanctity of human life and the inherent dignity of the human person. We believe that all students, school employees and volunteers have a right to a safe and healthy school environment. All members of the school community, in turn, have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance and acceptance. Research shows that students who learn in a safe and supportive environment succeed academically. Students have a right to learn in an environment free of any harassment that substantially interferes with their education. 17

18 Definition: Bullying, bias-based harassment /intimidation are intentional, repeated, hurtful acts (physical, verbal, written) committed by one or more persons towards another person or persons. It usually involves an actual or perceived imbalance of power which can be physical, emotional or verbal. If not addressed, bullying can lead to the creation of a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment and can affect a student s educational opportunities. The behaviors include but are not limited to: Physical: physical violence, stalking, threats, aggressive or menacing gestures, exclusion from peer groups which is intended to humiliate or isolate the target (relational bullying) Verbal: taunts, teasing, derogatory language, derogatory jokes, name calling, slurs, spreading rumors Written: written or graphic material including graffiti containing comments or stereotypes that are electronically written and transmitted via internet, social messaging sites, blogs, instant messaging, text messages, cell phone, webcams, etc. This would also include forwarding such messages if received. This generally constitutes cyber bullying. Reporting Procedures: The targeted student, parent/guardian of a student or other students in the school (bystanders), or any school staff who believe that bullying has occurred should report the incident to the principal. The principal needs to conduct an investigation by interviewing all parties separately. The parents of all involved students should be notified. If it is determined that bullying has occurred the child who bullied is to be subject to consequences per the school s disciplinary code. Parents should be advised to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency if the situation warrants such a report. Referral to counseling should be made for all parties if deemed necessary. The principal must follow up to see that the offending conduct has stopped. All students should be notified that retaliation against anyone who makes a report will not be tolerated and those that retaliate will be subject to disciplinary actions. January 18,

19 ATTENDANCE POLICY Attendance- It is of utmost importance that children attend school daily and arrive on time. Parents are required to telephone the school before 9:00 am when a student will be absent from school. Upon returning to school after an absence, a note should be written to your child s teacher explaining the reason for the absence. Students are expected and will be held responsible for any work missed due to absences from class. St. Clare Catholic Academy has developed our attendance policy in accordance with New York State Education Law Section 3205 to be implemented on July 1, This comprehensive attendance policy will help to uphold the philosophy and mission statement of our academy, as stated in our handbook. The elements of a comprehensive attendance policy are as follows: 1. Objectives: a. To ensure the maintenance of an adequate record verifying the attendance of all children at instruction in accordance with Education Law Section 3205 b. To establish a practical mechanism for the academy to provide accountability of all students throughout the school day c. To ensure sufficient student attendance at all scheduled periods of actual instruction or supervised student activities 2. Strategies to Meet Objectives: a. Use of a daily register of attendance/student information system b. Use of a recording system in departmentalized grades c. Use of a recording system for excused or unexcused absence for a day or portion thereof d. Use of a recording system for tardiness or early departure e. Use of a recording system for each scheduled day of instruction f. Use of dates for entries and withdrawal of enrollment 3. When Attendance Should Be Recorded: a. Daily at the elementary level b. Period by period for grades/classes that are departmentalized c. Period by period when the students attend special content area classrooms, or upon returning from lunch, recess, assembly or attending Para/liturgical activities 4. Determination of which absences are excused and which are not and a coding system a. Excused absences shall include: Types of Absence Code Sickness S Sickness or death in family F 19 Required to be in court P Approved high school or college visit P

20 Quarantine P Excused absence, parts of day X Attendance at health clinics P b. Unexcused absences shall include: Types of Absence Code Unlawful detention O Truancy T Religious Observance P Others noted in register of attendance Suspension Su Vacations V Attendance codes that are to be used are within the guidelines of the New York State Register of Attendance. Student attendance in school increases academic success therefore regular attendance should be emphasized by parents. Excessive absences may influence promotion. Punctuality- Students are expected to arrive to school on time. Arriving late to class interrupts the learning process and is not fair to the students or teacher. School begins at 8:10 AM. Students arriving after 8:25 AM, regardless of the reason, will be considered late and will be marked as such in his/her permanent records. A student who has excessive latenesses will not be able to return to the academy the following school year. CELL PHONE POLICY Students must turn off cell phones before entering the building. All cell phones must be in the book bags. Not on a belt or in pant or shirt pocket. The school is not responsible for lost cell phones. Any cell phone that is seen by any faculty or staff member in the building will be confiscated. A parent must come to the school office to receive the cell phone. 20

21 UNIFORM POLICY As indicated on the school contract all students are expected to be in full uniform and well groomed each day unless a student has a NUT Day card ( No Uniform Today) or a scheduled dress down day. Students who are not in full uniform may be asked to call home and have their uniform brought to him/her before returning to class. Pre-K and K Pre-K and K students are to wear navy blue pants, blue polo shirt with the Academy logo and blue or black shoes. Students may wear navy crew neck cardigan sweater with logo. On Gym days, students are to wear the navy blue sweat pants and navy blue tee/sweat shirt with sneakers. Spring/Fall uniform- students may wear navy blue walking shorts with blue polo shirt with logo. Grade 1-5 Girls Students are to wear navy split front jumper or navy blue pants, white short or long Peterpan collar blouse, navy criss-cross tie with blue or black shoes and white or navy blue socks. Students may wear navy crew neck cardigan sweater with logo or white turtleneck with logo. On Gym days, students are to wear the navy blue sweat pants and navy blue tee/sweat shirt with sneakers. Spring/Fall uniform- Student may wear navy walking shorts. Grades 6-8 Girls Navy sewn down knife pleat skirt or navy blue pants, white short or long convertible collar blouse, navy criss-cross tie, navy long line vest with logo with blue or black shoes and white or navy blue socks. Students may wear navy crew neck cardigan sweater with logo or white turtleneck with logo. On Gym days, students are to wear the navy blue sweat pants and navy blue tee/sweat shirt with sneakers. Spring/Fall uniform- Student may wear navy walking shorts. 21

22 Grades 1-8 boys Navy blue pleated slacks with a black belt, white button down long or short shirt, navy tie with log and blue or black shoe with white or navy blue socks. Students may wear navy crew neck cardigan sweater with logo or white turtleneck with logo. On Gym days, students are to wear the navy blue sweat pants and navy blue tee/sweat shirt with sneakers. Spring/Fall uniform- Student may wear navy walking shorts. Girls may not: Wear nail polish Wear make-up Wear big headbands with bows Wear hoop or dangling earrings hair cannot be dyed with any color other than a natural color and must be dyed evenly throughout the hair. (no highlights or streaks) Boys may not: have any design within their hair cut have hair longer than the shirt collar this includes braids. Wear earrings THE DRESS CODE FOR DAYS WHEN YOUR CHILD IS NOT IN UNIFORM: No hats No tank tops No see-through blouses/shirts Undergarments cannot be visible No short-shorts or mini skirts No hip hugger or ripped pants or jeans No midriffs No low cut tops No tight clothing which accentuates the body form No tee shirts with inappropriate language or pictures Boys may not wear earrings at anytime. Girls may not wear large or excessive accessories such as earrings, bracelets, hair attire, etc. OR ANY TYPE OF DRESS DETERMINED TO BE OF A MODEST NATURE FOR SCHOOL AS PER FACULTY/ADMINISTRATION 22

23 FIELD TRIP POLICIES Field trips are a privilege not a right given to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. Any student who fails to meet the academic and/or behavioral requirements or tuition is not current can be denied participation in a field trip. HONOR ROLL CRITERIA GUIDELINES FOR HONORS GRADES 1-4- Revised as of August 2013 Certificates are awarded at an assembly after each trimester for 3 rd and 4 th grade students. Certificates are awarded at an assembly after the second and third trimester for 1 st and 2 nd graders. Principal s List: Earning an A+ in every subject and receiving nothing less than a 4 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 1 st Honors: Earning grades within the range of A s and A+ in all subjects and receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 2 nd Honors: Earning grades within the range of A s in four subjects with one B+ and receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 3 rd Honors: Earning grades within the range of B+ to A+ in four subjects with one B receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas Subject Area: Earning a grade of A+ in one subject and receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas. This award is given to a student that does not receive any of the above awards. 23

24 GUIDELINE FOR HONORS GRADES Revised as of August 2013 Certificates are awarded at an assembly after each trimester. The following awards are presented to students who have earned: Principal s List: Earning grades within the range of in all subjects and receiving nothing lower than a 4 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 1 st Honors: Earning grades within the range of in all subjects and receiving nothing lower than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 2 nd Honors: Earning grades within the range of in four subjects with one grade between and receiving nothing lower than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas 3 rd Honors: Earning grades in three subjects within the range of with one grade between and receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas Subject Area: Earning a grade within the range of 97 to 100 in ONE subject ; receiving nothing less than a 3 in personal progress, homework, effort, sub-headings and Special Content Areas. This award is given to a student who does not receive any of the above award. ACE Award: All Around Christian Example. This award is given to any student, grades 1-8, who has earned all 4 s in Personal growth 24

25 REPORT CARDS Report cards are distributed in December, March and June. Parents must attend parent teacher conferences in order to receive report cards in December and March. The final report card will be sent home via student in June. Tuition payments must be current in order to receive Report Cards and attend Conferences. Please refer to the school calendar for dates. Academic Codes A+ = A = B+ = B = C+ = C = D+ = D = F = Below 70 Progress Codes 1 Does Not Meet Standard 2 Approaching Standard 3 Meets Standard 4 Meets Standard with Distinction X Not Assessed this Tri PROGRESS REPORTS Although parents have the ability to view student progress on OptionC on a daily basis, parents will also receive interim progress reports during the mid-trimester period. Distribution dates will appear on the monthly school calendar. New York State Testing Program STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS The New York State Testing Program is designed to ensure that all students develop strong academic skills and concepts. The program includes elementary and intermediate assessment in: ELA 4, ELA 6, ELA 8 Math 4, Math 6 and Math 8 Science 4 and Science 8 The New York State Testing Program is administered to the students throughout the school year on dates designated by the New York State Education Department and the Diocese of Brooklyn. The test results are reported in the following manner: Level 4 Exceeds Proficiency Standard Level 3 Meets Proficiency Standard Level 2 Meets Basic Standard Level 1 Below Standard Results of all state tests are recorded on the permanent record cards. 25

26 TerraNova (CTB/McGraw Hill) Fall Testing Program: TerraNova Assessment Series mandated for grades 3 8 In View (Test of Cognitive Skills), Second Edition mandated for Grades 3 8 ACADEMIC INTERVENTION SERVICE (AIS) Students who fail to meet the state standards on any of the New York State tests must receive academic intervention services. An Academic Intervention Services (AIS) plan must be written for each student who scores on Level 1 or Level 2. Students who score on Level 1 on any of the New York State tests must receive a full year of remediation and be retested with a standardized test at the end of the year. If the student still fails to meet the standard, another full year of remediation is required with retesting. Students who score on Level 2 must receive a full year of remediation and may be retested at the discretion of the principal. FORMS OF COMMUNICATION Communication is key in the education of a child. It is very important that the lines of communication are open between school and home. Communication is ongoing and the following methods of communication are used: Monthly Calendars Regular memos regarding school events and programs Back to School Night Report Card Conferences Progress Reports Telephone and communication School website Option C Complaints and concerns should be handled at the most local possible level. Persons with concerns about a situation with a teacher should first attempt to address the concerns with the teacher. Only after such attempts have failed, should the administration be contacted. Any complaints and concerns regarding administration, procedure or policy should be directed to the principal. Only after such attempts have failed, should the Board Chair be contacted. 26

27 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES Teach the child respect for the law, authority, the rights of others and for private and public property. The education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school. Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require. The withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken. To arrange for prompt and regular attendance at school and have children comply with attendance procedures. To work with the school in carrying out recommendations made in the best interest of the child. This would include disciplinary measures, need for academic or psychological evaluation and the need for retention in a grade. To make sure that all information in your child s record is up to date and accurate. Any change of address, telephone or work numbers should be sent in writing to the classroom teacher and the administration. Make sure that emergency numbers are accurate, it is important that the school have the most up to date information To talk to the child about school activities, show an active interest in report cards and progress reports. To disclose any medical issues or concerns to the Principal and Nurse To play an active role in helping and insuring that homework is neat, completed and handed in on time. To notify the principal of any educational needs of a child. Withholding information such as an IEP (Individual Educational Plan) may result in the immediate dismissal from the Academy. It is the responsibility of all to ensure the safety of the children. Parents must not double park, make u turns in front of the building or park in the driveways when dropping or picking your child up. The Rectory parking lot must not be blocked as well. EARLY PICK UP If a child needs to be picked up early from school, a parent must send a letter to the teacher or call the main office prior to picking up a child. Your child will only be released to the adults you gave permission to on the Emergency Sheet unless the name is put in writing. A picture ID is required to sign a child out. The number of times a student is picked up early should be limited during the school year. No child will be released 10 minutes before dismissal except for an emergency as this is a disruption to the dismissal procedures. Students who are continuously picked up early for reasons other than academic, will need to meet with the Principal. 27

28 LUNCH PROGRAM St. Clare Catholic Academy offers a cold lunch provided by the Department of Education. Depending on eligibility parents may be charged full price, half price or no cost. The program runs from October to September. Parents must fill out a lunch form to participate in the lunch program. Please be advised that the meals are ordered on a monthly basis, so if your child will be taking advantage of the lunch program you MUST return the bottom portion of the calendar each month as that is your order form. Please be advised that in the event that your child, forgets their lunch at home, it must be delivered to the school no later than 10:30 am to ensure that he/she receives it for their lunch period. Lunches should only be dropped off in the event that a student forgets their lunch as students will not be allowed to go to the main office to check for lunches on a daily basis. Any lunch dropped off will be delivered to your child in the lunch room. Please be sure your child s lunch is labeled with their name and class. Students may not under any circumstances bring glass bottles to school. Any glass bottles brought to school will be confiscated. FREE BREAKFAST PROGRAM St. Clare Catholic Academy participates in a free cold breakfast Program provided by the Department of Education. Free breakfast is available from 7:45 am to 8:00 am in the morning program. Please be advised that the meals are ordered on a monthly basis, so if your child will be taking advantage of the breakfast program you MUST return the bottom portion of the calendar each month as that is your order form. AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM The After School Program is available from 2:20 pm to 6:30 pm for students in grades Pre-K to 6 and 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm for students in grades 7 & 8. Parents are expected to pick up their child no later than 6:30pm. Any parent who continuously picks a child up after 6:30pm will not be able to utilize the After School Program. Students in grades Pre-K to 6 who are not picked up by dismissal will be sent to the After School room and a fee will be charged. 28