Handbook
1800 South Grand Avenue East
Springfield, Illinois 62703
217-523-0760
FAMILY HANDBOOK
2011-2012
Our Mission
St. Patrick is a Catholic School committed to academic excellence in a structured, nurturing environment, where family involvement is essential to developing productive citizens and leaders.
St. Patrick is a learning environment open to children and families of all races and creeds within the community. We seek to give our students a variety of learning experiences which root them in Jesus’ message which is that they are loved and respected.
We believe: Each child is unique, special and precious, not only in the sight of God, but also to us. Each child has the basic right to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion by both peers and persons in authority. Reverence for life must be experienced by students; this leads to the development of a sense of justice tempered with mercy. Instilling the value of compassion for persons and places will influence their relationships, both now and in the future.
We believe: Children with positive self-images are less likely to exhibit prejudice and more likely to achieve success in whatever endeavors they undertake.
We believe: Active participation of parents and guardians is absolutely essential in the education experience, because they serve as their children’s primary role models.
We believe: Education of the total person is a necessity. We therefore consider the spiritual, emotional, physical development of our students and attempt to provide them with opportunities to work, learn and play together in a nurturing environment.
We believe: Our students are a vital part of the future of our world. We expect them to become goal oriented, responsible individuals whose values, ideas and actions will lead their generation in making our world a better place to live. We believe all of this reflects the 4-fold dimensions of Catholic Education: message, community,
service, and liturgy.
Educational Goals
· Students will be provided a foundation in the knowledge and practice of the Catholic faith for life-long spiritual growth.
· Students will develop a strong knowledge base, enabling and preparing them to strive for academic excellence.
· Students will be provided an atmosphere conducive to the development of a realistic and positive self-image, enabling them to draw on their God-given strengths.
Accreditation/Accountability
St. Patrick Catholic School is accredited through the Illinois State Board of Education and the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.
To achieve the mission and goals of St. Patrick Catholic School, the Principal, Staff, Board of Directors and Parents/Guardians will be accountable for seeing the students take advantage of the school community. To achieve the mission of our school, the following interdisciplinary learning outcomes will be pursued. Students will:
· Practice Christian values in a Catholic atmosphere.
· Show respect for individual differences in order to grow together as a community.
· Demonstrate excellent Reading and Language Arts skills, with every child learning to read well and on grade level by the end of the third grade.
· Demonstrate essential math skills necessary to meet
the evolving demands of society.
· Relate knowledge of the natural sciences to appreciate and preserve God's creation.
· Utilize current technology and information resources to become informed individuals.
· Apply critical thinking skills needed for problem solving.
· Exhibit knowledge of the various art forms in order to promote an appreciation of the fine arts.
· Demonstrate physical skills and development appropriate for a healthy learning environment.
Here follows an alphabetical listing of rules, regulations and policies relating to St. Patrick Catholic School. Any questions or concerns regarding this Family Handbook or questions concerning St. Patrick Catholic School should be directed to the school office.
Attendance/Absence
As per the Illinois School Code, there are 176 school days in our calendar. Regular attendance is expected, we believe nothing can replace the instructional opportunities when a child is absent. Timely arrival is expected. Students should enter and exit through the cafeteria/gym. School starts at 8:15 a.m., but students may enter the cafeteria/gym at 7:50 a.m. for breakfast. Students arriving after 8:15 a.m. should report to the office with their parent.
We do understand that children need to miss school due to illness or appointments at times. When a child is absent for any reason, the parent/guardian is required to notify the school by 9:30 a.m. the day of the absence. If a child is absent without communication from the parent/guardian, the school will call the parent/guardian.
In the event of an appointment during the school day, the parent should communicate in writing to the teacher regarding the absence. Children will remain in the classroom until the parent arrives to pick up the child through the office, and children/parent/guardian should return student to the office upon return. When a child is gone for less than 30 minutes, no absence is recorded: an absence of more than 30 minutes is recorded as a half-day absence Any assignments missed during an absence are expected to be made up upon return.
If a student is found to be truant, his/her parents will be contacted immediately. If the matter is not resolved between the family and the school administration, the truant officer with the local public school will be notified and asked to assist our school in addressing this matter.
If a student misses a combined total of 30 or more days during a school year, they may be retained. Total days missed includes full day absences, both excused and unexcused, as well as half day absences for late arrivals and early dismissals.
Family vacations which take students out of the school are discouraged. Teachers are not required to make assignments in advance for those students going on extended vacations.
Abuse and Neglect
All staff, and others who come in contact with students in programs and activities sponsored by St. Patrick Catholic School, whether these persons are salaried or volunteers, must sign:
(1) Statement of Certification and Authorization
(2) Acknowledgment of Child and Sexual Abuse Policy
(3) Statement of Certification and Authorization for background checks relative to child and sexual abuse.
St. Patrick Catholic School abides by the Child Abuse laws of the state of Illinois. These laws mandate that cases of suspected abuse and/or neglect be reported to Child Protective Services.
All adults, including volunteers, who work with children at the school must attend the "Protecting All God's Children" two-hour seminar.
Admissions
St. Patrick Catholic School admits students of any race, color, sex, nationality or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of this school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships, or other school-administered programs.
Children entering Kindergarten are to be five years of age on or before September 1 of the current year. Students not fulfilling the age requirement will not be admitted.
A physical examination, including a record of immunization and a lead screening, is required by State Law prior to entering Kindergarten. Children enter Kindergarten are also required to show evidence of a vision screening. A record of this examination is expected to be submitted to the school no later than October 15th of each school year. Kindergarten and second grade students are required to have dental exams. A record of dental examinations should be submitted to the school before May 15th. All health forms must have the signature of the doctor and a parent. Physical examination forms may be obtained from the school.
Upon entrance or transfer to St. Patrick Catholic School, records will be required from the school a child previously attended. The Principal will review the suitability of all transfer students as to whether the student should be admitted to the school. All new students will be given a trial period in which to prove himself/herself both socially and academically. If during this trial period there are any problems, a student may be asked to withdraw his/her attendance at St. Patrick Catholic School.
As a condition for enrolling or re-enrolling any child at St. Patrick Catholic School, Parents/Guardians must sign and submit the Tuition/Policy Agreement By signing the agreement, Parents/Guardians agree to abide by all policies and provisions set forth in this handbook.
Parents/Guardians who enroll their children in St. Patrick Catholic School are encouraged to practice their faith.
After School Care
An After Care Program may be offered during the school year through the Urban League. The program is expected to be an extension of the school day. The program components include snack time, Homework Hour, and an enrichment activity. Students are to be picked up from the After Care program by 5:30 p.m. There will be no After Care on days when children are not in school or on early dismissal days, unless otherwise notified.
Authority
The immediate direction of the school and its instructional program is delegated to the principal. All teachers and staff members have the authority to correct any/all children enrolled at St. Patrick Catholic School as the need arises. Mutual respect is to be shown by all. If a child fails to respond to the correction of a teacher, a staff member and/or the principal, the parent/guardian of the student will be notified.
The line of authority in the school is:
Parents/Guardians à Teachers à Principal à Board
If a parent/guardian has a problem regarding a teacher, the parent/guardian should bring the problem to the teacher’s attention. If the problem cannot be resolved with the teacher, the parent/guardian may bring it to the principal's attention. If the problem cannot be resolved at the building level, the principal can contact the President of the Board for resolution.
The principal reserves the right to amend this handbook.
Bicycles
Bikes are to be walked at all times on school grounds. They must be parked in and locked to the bicycle racks. The school accepts no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged bicycles.
Birthday Treats
Students in may bring only one simple store bought treat for their birthday. Healthy snacks are encouraged. The treats are for the child's current classroom only. If a child has a sibling in another classroom, then, with the permission of both teachers involved, the child may share the treats with the other classroom.
Bullying and Cyberbullying
St. Patrick Catholic School attempts to provide a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (seriously, in jest or online) face detention, suspension and/or expulsion.
Board of Directors
The Academy at St. Patrick Catholic School is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of 17 members. The committees of the Board are Executive, Finance, Development, Strategic Planning, Community Relations, Diocesan Relations, and Board Retention. The Board meets every first Tuesday of every month in the St. Patrick school building.
Bus
It is expected that students riding buses (City/Laidlaw) will exhibit the Christian values of courtesy and respect. If problems arise and the school is notified, students may be asked to find another mode of transportation to and from school.
Cell Phones/Other Electronic Devices
Cell phones and other electronic devices are to be in the off position upon entering the building and should be stored in the child’s backpack during the school day. If phones are not stored appropriately, they may be sent to the office and parents may be required to pick them up. Continued violation may result in disciplinary action.
Change of name, marital status, address and/or phone number
Parents are to notify the school office immediately concerning any change of name, address and/or phone number(s). If parents are divorcing or separating, the school needs to be notified so that school personnel can better meet the student’s needs at this difficult time.
St. Patrick Catholic School adheres to and abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of NON-CUSTODIAL parents with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. A request for information will be responded to in a timely manner in order to keep the parent informed regarding the progress, etc., of a child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.
Cheating
Cheating of any type will not be tolerated. Students who choose to cheat face a failing grade, detention, suspension and/or expulsion.
Communication
Parents and teachers are encouraged to maintain an open line of communication if concerns arise. Teachers are available before and after school by appointment or as agreed upon by both parties.
Conferences
Formal parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for the end of the first and third quarters. Other conferences may be scheduled on an as needed basis. Detailed information regarding conferences will be sent home prior to the actual meetings. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact teachers at school if questions arise at any time during the course of the year. Teachers are encouraged to contact parents/guardians, whenever there is a need.
Counseling Services
Professional psychological and social counseling services for students may be available at St. Patrick Catholic School. Please contact the principal or your child's teacher for more information.
Crisis Management Plan
A Crisis Plan is in place for every type of emergency. If severe weather warnings are given for our area, the children will be kept in a safe and protected area until parents are able to come for them. They will not be dismissed from school, even if District #186 dismisses classes early due to weather conditions. Teachers and staff members are knowledgeable about what to do in case of emergencies of any kind. Our first and foremost rule is to protect the children and keep
them safe.
Discipline/Expectations
In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school, which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All students are expected to cooperate with the spirit and policies of the school, which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment and many other factors which the students’ sense of appropriateness should indicate to them. Lastly our goal is to keep all children safe. Therefore, the school maintains three basic rules:
· Be Respectful,
· Be Responsible and
· Be Safe.
We strive to maintain a setting which is predictable, consistent, positive, and promotes students becoming increasingly independent. Students will be taught the expectations in different areas of the building and expectations will be posted. Items that could potentially cause a disruption to the learning environment, including gum, toys, and other objects should remain at home.
The Principal reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action, if any doubt arises.
The School Administration, in accordance with state laws, will determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken concerning the presence of these items in the school.
Safe Seat / Buddy Room
Each classroom has a Safe Seat in it. The Safe Seat is a place where the teacher can move a student if they need to spend some time away from their immediate environment. The Safe Seat allows the student to move, while remaining in the classroom.
Each classroom also has a Buddy Room Seat in it. The Buddy Room Seat is a place for a student to be moved to if they temporarily need to be removed from the classroom, but their behavior does not warrant being sent to the office. Each classroom has an assigned room that misbehaving students can be sent to.
Both seats are to be used for an amount of time that the teacher sees fit, before the student returns to their assigned seat.
Other Consequences
Non-verbal and verbal reminders/warning, removal of privileges, parent contact, and conference with principal and/or as designated below:
Detention
A detention may be issued for breach of classroom and/or school rules. Parents are provided with a Detention Form with written notification of the detention. The day, date and time of the detention are at the discretion of the Principal, who monitors the detention. Detention takes precedence over appointments, practices, lessons, tutoring, ballgames, etc.
In-School Suspension
At the Principal’s discretion, a student can be given an in-school suspension. Students who are given an in-school suspension will be required to spend the day completing their work in a different classroom.
Out-of-School Suspension
In the event that the Principal determines it necessary, a student may be suspended for up to five days. A suspension will be preceded by a parent/guardian conference, either by phone or in person. The date of the suspension and a summation of the parent/guardian conference will be kept on file.
Students who receive an out-of-school suspension will not be allowed on campus or at school functions during the time of their suspension. In order to maintain academic achievement, students are expected to complete all class work and tests from the days of suspension, but no grades will be recorded for this work.
Expulsion
St. Patrick Catholic School will follow Diocesan guidelines in the event expulsion is being considered. The general situations which demand expulsion of a student from the school can be reduced to two:
· Delinquency and immorality which warrant commitment to a correctional institution or which constitute a definite menace themselves or to other pupils.
· Chronic and incorrigible misbehavior which undermines classroom discipline and impedes the academic progress of the entire class.
Examples of behavior which could result in expulsion include, but are not limited to:
· Harassment of a student or adult
· Bullying
· Possession of a weapon of any kind
· Possession or use of tobacco, alcohol or illegal drugs
· Severe or chronic misbehavior resulting in numerous office referrals
· Vandalism
When expulsion is being considered:
· The student will be suspended for a period not to exceed one week.
· The parent/guardian of the student will be allowed a conference with the principal in the hope that a solution to the problem will be found which will forestall the necessity of expulsion.
· The principal will make the final decision and communicate this decision to the parent/guardian.
· If expulsion is necessary, the date of withdrawal and the word "withdrew" will be placed on the child's permanent record.
Delinquent Behavior Off of School Grounds
In the event that a student’s delinquent or immoral behavior off of school grounds is brought to the attention of the administration through its direct or indirect impact on the school, St. Patrick Catholic School reserves the right to contact the parents/guardians of those students in question, take any actions (including disciplinary) appropriate to the nature and frequency of the offense and contact the appropriate authorities if necessary.
DRESS CODE
Girls
Skirts, Pants, Jumpers: Navy Blue or Khaki
Shorts: Blue or Khaki (No shorter than knee length) Shirts: Light Blue or White (Must be collared shirt – NO t-shits) Sweaters: Navy Blue or Forest / Hunter Green Shoes: NO open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or sandals (even with socks) NO heels over 1 inch
Socks or Tights: MUST be worn daily, should be Navy Blue, Black, or White Belt: Girls MUST wear a blue or black if needed Make-up: Make-up, with the exception of colorless lip gloss, may NOT be worn
Boys Pants, Shorts: Navy Blue or Khaki (Shorts may be no shorter than knee length) Shirts: Light Blue or White (Must be collared shirt – NO t-shirts) Ties: (Optional unless specifically requested for a special event) Solid Navy Blue or Forest/Hunter Green Sweaters: Navy Blue or Forest / Hunter Green Shoes: NO flip-flops or sandals (even with socks) Socks: MUST be worn daily, should be Navy Blue, Black, or White
Belt: Boys MUST wear a black belt daily
For All
- All clothes should be clean, pressed and in good repair at all times.
- All jackets, coats, outerwear and backpacks should be labeled with your child’s name.
- Outerwear will NOT be allowed to be worn in classrooms.
Drugs and Alcohol
Students who possess or who are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol at school or at any school function face suspension and/or expulsion.
Emergency Closings
Emergency closing is a rare occurrence. If school is to be canceled due to severe weather, the closing will be announced over local radio and television stations. Parents/Guardians are always welcome to pick up their children early when the weather is severe.
Emergency File
A special file is kept in the office which includes the names of persons to be notified if a parent/guardian cannot be contacted. Please notify the office if there is a change in the emergency numbers. It is essential that these numbers are ALWAYS up to date.
Emergency Procedures
St. Patrick Catholic School has a Crisis Management Plan for emergencies. Fire drills and tornado drills are held periodically during the school year. Drill procedures are posted in every classroom.
Field Trips
Field trips shall be an extension of the learning process. Parents/guardians may be asked to sponsor/chaperone a field trip. Permission, in writing, must be secured from parents or guardian of the students who go on scheduled trips.
Grading System 2-5:
Achievement Percentile Conduct and Effort
A - Outstanding 100% - 93% 1-Outstanding
B - Above Average 92% - 85% 2-Very Good
C - Average 84% - 77% 3- Satisfactory
D - Below Average 76% - 70% 4- Little Effort
F - Failure 69% or below 5- No Effort
S - Remedial for subjects so noted - indicates child is not on grade
level, but working to the best of his/her ability.
Grading System K-1:
The following marking codes will be used for grades K and 1.
V = Very Good
S = Satisfactory
U= Unsatisfactory
√ = Needs improvement
+ = progressing below grade level
Health
It is the parents/guardians responsibility to inform the school of any physical abnormalities, such as birth defects, allergies, epilepsy, diabetes, asthma, etc., so that we can maintain the health and education of the students.
AIDS
Students with AIDS who are enrolled or who are seeking enrollment shall be permitted to attend The Academy at St. Patrick Catholic School. Students who are known to have AIDS will be individually evaluated by a physician(s) and other professional personnel in order to determine if their behavior or physical condition poses a high risk for spread of the disease. One of the purposes of the evaluation is to prepare a specific plan for the education and care of the student. Knowledge that a student has AIDS will be confined to those persons with direct right to know.
Asbestos Management Plan Notification
All schools in the State of Illinois, both public and private, are required to be inspected for asbestos-containing materials. St. Patrick Catholic School has been inspected for asbestos-containing materials as mandated by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Furthermore, a written plan is in place as required. Upon request, you may review this plan as desired. You may contact the executive director or principal at 217-523-7670. If you wish to have a paper copy of report, one can be provided for you at the cost of $1.00 per page. The safety of your children and our staff is of great importance to us.
Asthma and Allergies
The school does all that it can to ensure the school environment is safe and trigger-free to children with asthma and allergies. Staff members are made aware of students with asthma/allergies/or other serious conditions that may impact a student’s health or well-being by the principal or the principal’s representative.
Immediate access to reliever inhalers is vital. Children are encouraged to carry their reliever inhaler as soon as the parent, doctor or nurse and class teacher agree they are mature enough. Parents are asked to ensure that the school is provided with a labeled spare reliever inhaler. All inhalers must be labeled, by the parent, with the child’s name. In addition, parents should provide the school with a copy of an Asthma Action Plan as prepared by the child’s health care provider.
It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to reform the school of such conditions, so that teachers and staff can be trained to react/respond appropriately to the child’s needs.
A parent or guardian of a student with food allergies is responsible for providing all food for his/her own child. Snacks will be kept in a separate snack box or chest provided by the parent or guardian.
Tables will be washed with soap and water following any food related events held in the classroom.
Students will be taught proper hand cleaning techniques and will be encouraged to follow them before and after handling/consumption of food.
Medications, including an EpiPen® and a copy of the student’s Emergency Action Plan must accompany the student.
Bloodborne Pathogens
In accordance with O.S.H.A. regulations, St. Patrick Catholic School has in place a plan for minimizing the risk of the spread of pathogens through blood or other potentially infectious materials. The plan is available for viewing in the principal's office during regular school hours.
Communicable Diseases
As per the guidelines set forth by the Illinois Department of Health, students are excluded from school in the event of communicable disease or illness. Families are encouraged to consult with the health department or their health care provider of choice for treatment options as needed. Students that have not been vaccinated for childhood illnesses due to religious or medical reasons may be excluded from school in the event of an outbreak.
Medication--Prescription
To ensure school attendance for students who must use medication in the treatment of chronic disabilities or illness, any student who is required to take oral medication during the regular school day must comply with the following regulations:
1) Written orders from a physician detailing the name of the drug, the dosage and the time interval at which the medication is to be taken. (Request form from the office)
2) Written request and permission from the parent/guardian of the student requesting that the school comply with the physicians' orders. (Request form from the office)
3) Medication must be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or physician.
4) Every medication will be recorded on a medication log which includes date, time, dosage and signature of person giving the medication.
5) Only the person designated by the principal or a registered nurse shall be allowed to dispense the oral medications pursuant to the physician's orders. That person shall make the notations required in #4 above. The school secretary, the principal or another office worker is designated to dispense all medications.
6) All attempts should be made to give medications outside of the school day, i.e., antibiotics can often be given before and/or after school.
Medication-- Non-Prescription
Non-prescription medication is not dispensed at school. No topical application of alcohol, peroxide, calamine lotion or any other medication will be used. If an injury occurs, we will use soap and water to clean any wound and inform the parent/guardian. If the child needs further treatment or needs to be sent home, parents/guardians will be called.
It is the parents/guardians responsibility to seek further medical help or to inform the physician of any complications.
Responding to Emergencies
In the event of a suspected allergic reaction (where there is no known allergic history), the school secretary will be called and the school’s Emergency Response Plan activated.
In the event of a life threatening emergency, Emergency Response Services will be called immediately.
WELLNESS POLICY
St. Patrick Catholic School is committed to providing a learning environment that supports and promotes wellness, good nutrition, and an active lifestyle. Furthermore, the school recognizes the positive relationship between good nutrition, physical activity, and the capacity of students to develop and learn. Therefore, much effort is made to maintain healthy balanced meals in collaboration with the GenH Coalition of Springfield and our food service provider. The entire school environment shall be aligned with healthy school goals to positively influence students’ beliefs and habits and promote health and wellness, good nutrition, and regular physical activity.
Harassment
St. Patrick Catholic School shall maintain an environment free from any type of harassment. No member of the school community shall be subjected to any type of harassment at any time.
Assignments Outside of Class Instruction Time
Homework will not be given simply for the sake of giving homework. Students will be given time in class to practice and use the skills and concepts introduced in class. Students are encouraged to read 30 minutes daily outside of school.
Insurance
Insurance envelopes are distributed to the Parents/Guardians on registration day. These are to be returned by the Friday after Labor Day, whether or not you wish to insure your child. Those interested in school insurance are to fill out the form and return it with a check payable to the insurance company. If you do not want the school insurance, please return the envelope marked "NO" and signed. We are required to have, on file, your decision regarding school insurance.
Internet
Internet access is available to teachers and students at St. Patrick Catholic School. Our goal in providing the Internet is to promote educational excellence in the school, to expand access to information and to promote innovation in teaching, learning and communication. With access to computers and people from around the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of our school. Families should be warned that some material obtained on the Internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive. We have taken precautions to limit or restrict access to controversial materials. However, it is impossible to totally control all materials and an Internet user may discover controversial information either by accident or deliberately.
Because of the young age of the students at St. Patrick Catholic School, they will be closely monitored when accessing the Internet.
All students must have a signed Internet Use Agreement form on file in the office before they can have access to the Internet. Our Internet Use Agreement will be issued and explained by the computer teacher. Internet Use Agreement forms must be signed by both the student and a parent/guardian.
Rules for use of the Internet at St. Patrick Catholic School
1) The Internet at St. Patrick Catholic School is provided for students and teachers to conduct research and to communicate with others. Internet users will only review or download materials that are school related and have an educational value consistent with educational goals at St. Patrick Catholic School. Games shall not be played unless the activity is directed by the teacher and is related to academics.
2) Computing resources and the Internet may not be used for commercial purposes, product advertising or political purposes.
3) Users may not transmit, knowingly receive, submit or publish defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, offensive or known illegal materials.
4) Inappropriate use of the Internet may result in a suspension or revocation of Internet privileges. The computer system administrator, along with the principal, will determine inappropriate use and their decision is final.
5) Any costs associated with inappropriate use will be billed directly to the user.
6) Users may not use another person's password or trespass in another's folders, work or files without written permission.
7) All communication and information accessible via the computer system shall be regarded as private property. However, the system administrator may review files and messages to maintain system integrity, as well as a safe school environment.
Lunch Program
Hot lunches are available. Parents of students receiving free/reduced lunch must complete a form at registration. Those forms are audited periodically and parents/guardians will be asked to cooperate in the audit.
Prayer Service
Students attend an all-school Prayer Service on Wednesdays at 9:00. Children actively participate by singing, reading and praying. A priest may visit St. Patrick Catholic School students whenever possible.
Media Policy
The criteria for selecting a video for use in the classroom are:
(These three points presuppose that the teacher has previewed the video so as to be able to make a sound judgment.)
1) The film's intrinsic educational or recreational value
2) The film’s actual fit into the curriculum
3) The film’s harmony with Catholic faith and morals.
4)
Open House
The staff will host an Open House for the parents/guardians and the community at the beginning of the school year and during Catholic Schools Week, which is at the end of January. At least one parent/guardian of each child is expected to attend each open house.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
The parent teacher organization is a viable organization at St. Patrick Catholic School. The organization exists to support the mission of the school by providing financial support. Throughout the year, the organization raises funds to help support the educational needs of the students, purchases technology supplies, sponsors field trips, helps with snacks and helps where other need is found.
The PTO meets once a month, usually on the second Thursday at 5:30p.m. Meetings are held at the school. Parents are expected to attend a minimum of 5 meetings during the year. All parents are members of the PTO and are encouraged to be active participants in this organization.
Parents as Partners
As partners in the educational process at St. Patrick Catholic School, we ask parents:
To set rules, times and limits so that your child:
· Gets to bed early on school nights;
· Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day: THIS IS A PARENT RESPONSIBILITY
· Is dressed according to the school dress code;
· Completes assignments on time; and
· Has lunch money or a nutritional sack lunch every day.
To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher conferences;
To see that the student pays for any damage to school books or property due to carelessness or neglect on the part of the student;
To notify the school by phone when the student has been absent or tardy;
To meet all financial obligations to the school;
To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety and health;
To promptly complete and return to school any requested information;
To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;
To support the religious and educational goals of the school;
To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school; and
To treat teachers with respect and courtesy when discussing student problems.
Police Questioning
When students become involved with law enforcement officers, the officer is to be asked, if it can be arranged, to confer with the student when he or she is not under the jurisdiction of the school.
The following steps will be taken to cooperate with the authorities:
· The officer shall properly identify him/herself.
· The parent/guardian shall be notified immediately and informed of the intent of the law enforcement authorities.
· The student's parent/guardian has a right to be present if the conference is held at school.
· If the student's parent/guardian cannot be located, the authorities are not to confer with the student unless they produce a warrant.
· If there is a warrant or if it is impossible for the parent/guardian to be present and they request it, the principal will be a witness to the conference held in the school.
Policy Making
The policies of the administrational and educational mission of St. Patrick Catholic School are enacted and thereby formalized by the St. Patrick Board of Directors. The board is advised of the formation of such policies by the principal or other members of the board. The execution and implementation of the policies are the responsibility of the school principal.
Privacy
Students may not reveal any personal information about themselves, their family members or any other member(s) of St. Patrick Catholic School Community in an online log or journal (“blogging”) or via e-mail or any other type of transmission. Furthermore, students are not to threaten or defame others in the school community or use the name or logo of St. Patrick Catholic School in a “blog” or in other online communication. Due to overriding safety issues, students violating this rule are subject to disciplinary action and consequences by the school, whether such conduct takes place inside or outside the school.
Promotion/Retention
Students completing a grade's work to the extent of their ability shall be promoted to the next grade. Should a teacher and/or parent/guardian feel that retention of a child would be beneficial to the child, they should meet several times during the course of the year and discuss the child's attitude and academic progress.
Records
Parents/Guardians may view their child's permanent record upon 24 hours written notice. A child’s permanent record contains attendance records, academic records, teacher's names, promotion/retention data, standardized test results, health and immunization records and any other pertinent information. When a student transfers to another school, a duplicate copy of the student's permanent cumulative record will be sent. The original will be placed in the inactive file. Records are sent within three days of a request from another school.
Report Cards
Report cards are sent home with children on a quarterly basis. Mid-quarter progress reports may be sent home as needed.
Search and Seizure
For the safety and welfare of everyone in, St. Patrick Catholic School retains the right to conduct searches of school property and/or student property on school grounds. This right includes the search lockers, and seizure of digital information and computer files, etc. Contraband found may be seized and appropriate authorities notified.
Telephone Calls
Telephone calls to the teachers should be made through the school. Children can use the office phone only with written permission of their teacher and verbal permission from a member of the office staff.
Testing
St. Patrick Catholic School cooperates with District 186 in the identification and testing of students who qualify for special educational services. Students are screened routinely in the areas of reading and math to determine areas of concerns. Students in grades 1-5 take the Terra Nova test. Results for individual achievement are shared with their parent/guardian. Students are also screened periodically for academic concerns/growth so that instruction may be adjusted a needed.
Tuition
The cost per child is $735. The second child’s tuition cost is $300 and each additional child costs $100. Payments will be made on a ten month basis beginning in August. All payments are due on the 15th of the month beginning August 15th and ending May 15th. Upon notification of a transfer, tuition shall be reimbursed to those who have paid in advance. The amount refunded shall be prorated to the length of time the student has attended school for that year. No student is to be deprived of a Catholic education due to lack of finances. However, parents who are able should make every effort to take care of their responsibilities in this area.
A returned fee of up to $25 will be assessed to your account for any returned tuition payment.
Use of Student Information/Pictures
From time to time student photos/pictures are used in press releases, brochures, pamphlets. These items, as well as media coverage, are used to promote The Academy at St. Patrick Catholic School. However, it is only with the permission of the parents that the school will allow this information to be used. Release forms will be given to parents/guardians for them to sign at registration.
Visitors
Any visitor that enters the school building must first report to the school office and sign-in. This includes any parent who wishes to meet with a member of the school staff. Parents/Guardians who wish to observe in a classroom are welcome, but first need to schedule their visit with the office and the classroom teacher.
Violence
St. Patrick Catholic School shall provide a safe learning environment for all members of the school community. Violence of any kind will not be tolerated. Threats of violence will be taken seriously. Any threat or act of violence will be handled per the school discipline code.
Violation of Alcohol/Drugs Policy
Use of alcohol or other drugs by students, abuse of prescribed medications and substance use/abuse at school or at any school related activity is strictly forbidden. Possession or sale of illegal drugs, a controlled substance or alcohol at school or at any school related activity is against school policy. Being under the influence of illegal drugs, other controlled substances or alcohol at school or at any school related activity is also against school policy. Any violation will be handled per the school discipline code and may result in suspension and/or expulsion from school.
Violation of Aggressive Behavior/Weapon Policy
Aggressive and violent behavior will not be tolerated. Harmful verbal or physical abuse is totally unacceptable. Weapons of any sort (including pocketknives) as well as look-alike weapons are strictly forbidden on school property. Any violation will be handled per the school discipline code and may result in suspension and/or expulsion from school.
Volunteers
Parents/Guardians are most welcome to help in the school. Volunteers are to be given the same respect as any other adult in the building. All volunteers are to report to the school office before going to the classroom or the cafeteria. All volunteers are required to sign the Diocesan Child Abuse Policy Statement and attend the "Protecting All God's Children" seminar.
Withdrawal
The office needs to be notified when a student is withdrawing so that records may be transferred easily and efficiently.