BE IT KNOWN TO ALL WHO ENTER HERE, THAT CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR OUR SCHOOL. HE IS THE UNSEEN BUT EVER-PRESENT TEACHER IN OUR CLASSES. HE IS THE MODEL OF OUR FACULTY AND THE INSPIRATION OF OUR STUDENTS.
MISSION
St. Catherine of Siena School is dedicated to providing our area youth with an exceptional educational opportunity, empowering them with spiritual, academic, and social development.
PHILOSOPHY
St. Catherine of Siena School is an agency of formal education engaged in the intellectual and spiritual formation and development of the young. The concern of the school is the growth and development of the ideas and the training of the mind. The development of the intellectual virtues gives the school its stability. However, the training of the intellect is not its exclusive objective. The specific, essential aim of St. Catherine of Siena School is to bring about the intellectual, emotional, spiritual and volitional development of its students as contributing citizens in a free society and apostolic members of the Church.
Here, the Way, the Truth and the Life are united in theory and practice. They form an organic unity-a unity that is exemplified only in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the center of the Christian Life and of Christian education. The staff of St. Catherine of Siena School is committed to helping its students develop these attributes.
ACCREDITATION
In accordance with the decision of the Roman Catholic Bishops of the State of Texas, our school is recognized by our Bishop as a Catholic school accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department (TCCED).
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
This act gives parents, custodial and non-custodial, and students the right to access the student’s records. Records will not be released to third parties without parental knowledge or consent.
THE ROLE OF THE BISHOP
The Second Vatican Council redefined the role of the bishops in the “Dogmatic Constitution on the Church” and the “Decree on the Bishop’s Pastoral Office in the Church.” Both documents clarify the bishop’s role as a true and authentic teacher of the faith. In this function as teacher, the bishop is the director of the Catholic schools in the diocese.
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
The Superintendent provides overall leadership, direction, and support to those engaged in the ministry of Catholic school education through consultation and cooperation with the office of the principal through the identification of strengths and needs of Catholic schools and through the development of programs and services to foster quality and excellent Catholic education.
The Superintendent is responsible for the formation, promulgation, and interpretation of policies pertaining to the operation of Catholic schools and overseeing school/parish compliance with established policies, including compliance with federal, state, and local regulations applying to nonpublic schools.
ST. CATHERINE CATHOLIC SCHOOL CODE OF ETHICS
The St. Catherine student:
· is trustworthy and seeks justice.
· respects all of God’s creations.
· acts responsibly, having the courage to choose to make the right choices even when those choices are not popular.
· accepts the challenge to reach his or her potential - physically, spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually.
· is generous with his or her time, talent, and resources, understanding that our call is to serve others.
In a word, the St. Catherine student is a true follower of Christ. Our mission is to serve others, using generously our time, talents, and resources for building God’s kingdom.
DUTIES OF THE PARENTS AND THE STUDENTS
THE PARENTS
Parents have both the right and the responsibility for educating their children. We at St. Catherine School believe that we can best help the parents fulfill this duty, but it must be a shared responsibility, if the children are to receive the maximum benefit of the educational opportunities we offer. The following are expectations of parents or guardians.
· Provide a Christian home and establish the religious and moral training of their children.
· Ensure regular attendance without being tardy.
· Instill politeness and respect for school employees.
· Ensure that their child has the necessary school materials.
· Uphold the policies and procedures of the school.
· Make certain the uniform code is followed.
· Instill the priority that must be placed on home study.
· Participate in St. Catherine Home and School Organization activities.
· Regularly confer with the teachers on their child’s progress.
· Activate their EDLINE account and access it regularly in order to remain informed about the progress of their St. Catherine student.
THE STUDENT
A good, Christian education is the most valuable experience students can have, as it will set their course for a lifetime of achievement. In order to receive the greatest benefit of this educational experience, the following are expectations of the students.
· Attend each class on time with the necessary materials.
· Come to school well groomed and properly dressed.
· Complete all homework assignments and develop good study habits.
· Respect the rights and property of others.
· Promptly deliver report cards and messages to parents.
· Exercise disciplined behavior both in and out of classes.
· Cooperate with all school authorities and obey school regulations.
· Participate in school functions.
RESPECT AND RECONCILIATION
All parties involved in the community of St. Catherine Catholic School should make every effort to solve problems with open minds and hearts. We must remember that our students are always looking to us as role models. Our parents should be powerful supporters of the school community in every situation. With this in mind, it is of the highest importance that all parties work cooperatively to fulfill the mission of St. Catherine Catholic School.
Research indicates that a strong link between school and home is considered to be the greatest single predictor of student success. Excellent schools are characterized by a positive climate and respectful relationships and strong home-school links.
ST. CATHERINE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
RECONCILIATION BOARD
In the ongoing effort to respond to the needs of the St. Catherine Catholic School community, a reconciliation process has been created to hear the concerns of its members. The process being implemented is modeled after the teachings of Jesus (Matthew, Chapter 18, v. 15 – 17), wherein He speaks as follows.
If your brother sins [against you], go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church. If he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector.
Based on this teaching, the steps for reconciliation will be as follows.
INITIALLY
The individual(s) presenting the issue shall meet with the person who is the subject of the complaint and discuss the issue(s). If the complainant is not satisfied with outcome of the conference, the process will proceed to Level One. The principal, after reviewing the written statements, will meet together with the parties involved within three days after receiving the grievance to seek a solution.
LEVEL ONE
If the individual(s) presenting the issue is not satisfied with the outcome of the conference initially, the person bringing the complaint, as well as the one to whom the complaint is addressed, shall present his understanding of the situation in writing to the principal within five working days from the initial meeting.
LEVEL TWO
The principal, after reviewing the written statements, will meet with the parties involved within three days after receiving the grievance to seek a solution.
LEVEL THREE
When the outcome of the conference at level two does not accomplish a resolution, either party may request a conference with the Reconciliation Board within five days of the meeting with the principal. The written request to meet with the reconciliation board should be sent the pastor of St. Catherine Church at 3840 Woodrow Dr., Port Arthur, Texas 77642. A written grievance should accompany the request.
LEVEL FOUR
If an equitable solution is not achieved with the Reconciliation Board, the individual (s) may request a conference with the pastor of St. Catherine of Siena Church in an effort to achieve a resolution. This request should be made in writing within five days of the meeting with the Reconciliation Board.
ADMISSION POLICIES
Schools in the Diocese of Beaumont do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, or national origin in accepting applications of school personnel and students. Annually, at registration time, the Office of Catholic Schools will publish in the East Texas Catholic a non-discrimination statement for the admission of students. [Diocesan Policy #1010]
Children may be registered for pre-kindergarten if they will be four years of age by September 1st; kindergarten if they will be five years of age by September 1st; and for first grade if they will be six years of age by September 1st. All students entering St. Catherine for the first time must present a birth and Baptismal certificate, and immunization record required by the State of Texas. In addition, students entering grades two through eight for the first time must provide academic records from their previous school. These students are accepted on a probational basis.
Students will be admitted to St. Catherine of Siena School in the following order of preference.
1. Returning students from the prior school year
2. Siblings of current and / or returning students
3. Children of teachers of St. Catherine of Siena School
4. Children of St. Catherine Parish
5. Children of Southern Vicariate parishes
6. New non-Catholic students
Registration Procedures (Grades K – 8)
· A $100 deposit is expected on the date of the spring parent/student/teacher conferences.
· A $250 payment on registration is expected on May 15th.
· A $250 payment on registration is expected on June 15th.
Registration Procedures (Grade Pre-K 3)
· A $100 deposit is expected on the date of the spring parent/student/teacher conferences.
Registration Procedures (Grade Pre-K 4)
· A $100 deposit is expected on the date of the spring parent/student/teacher conferences.
· A $150 payment on registration is expected on May 15th.
· A $150 payment on registration is expected on June 15th.
Students who register after June 15th are expected to pay the registration fee in full at the time of registration. Such fees are non-refundable. Registration for the next school year will not be complete until the tuition, fees, and other financial obligations for the current year are paid.
Financial Policies
One of the primary responsibilities of St. Catherine of Siena School Board, in consultation with the pastor and principal, is to establish policy, manage the financial affairs of the school, and approve the school budget for the year. Therefore, the following is a school policy that was established and agreed on by our school board.
Our school has entered into an agreement with SMART Tuition Management Service to handle tuition collection for the school. All families are required to participate in the SMART program. Forms will be distributed to families so that they are informed of how the program works and as to what dates the tuition will be due. Tuition will be considered late if not received by the due date and a late charge will be added.
If tuition is not paid by the due date of the second month after it was due, the student for which that tuition is due will be sent home and will not be admitted until tuition is paid current. Students will not receive any report cards or grades if tuition is overdue. Extenuating circumstances may be considered by the principal in consultation with the family.
Any checks returned for Non Sufficient Funds (NSF) will be charged $25.00.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
Textbooks
All textbooks MUST BE CARED FOR and COVERED AT ALL TIMES. The student’s name must be written in each book. The teacher issues textbooks, and students will return their books to the teacher, if they withdraw from school during the term or at the conclusion of the school year. An inspection of textbooks will be conducted periodically to determine the condition. The original textbook must be paid for before a replacement will be issued. Textbook records for the year must be cleared before the end of the year report card is handed out.
Homework
Even though class learning procedures constitute a large part of the school’s educational process, it is still generally true that student’s classroom performance is only as good as his home study and homework. Written homework is only a part of the home learning process. More important for success are reading of assigned and related materials and consistent review of previous materials. Most students of grades 4 – 8 need a minimum of one hour of undistracted and undisturbed home study each school night to maintain a scholastic average that reflects true ability. Some students need more time. Students on the primary level (grades 1-3) should read aloud to parents at least fifteen minutes each evening in addition to completing any practice work in math and spelling.
Physical Education
Physical Education classes are part of the curriculum for all students. Because it is a graded subject, participation is required. Students who refuse to “dress out” for PE will receive points off their grade. Repeated refusal to conform to the PE dress code may result in detention. A note from parents is necessary when sickness or other conditions prevent student participation. Full dress P. E. uniform will be needed for our first full week of school.
· K-4 GIRLS PE: Royal blue or navy mesh or polyester short required.
· K-4 BOYS PE: Shorts are not required.
· 5-8 GIRLS PE: Royal blue or navy mesh or polyester short required. T-shirt must be white, navy or royal blue, or your child may wear any SCS shirt purchased at school.
· 5-8 BOYS PE: Royal blue or navy mesh or polyester short. T-shirt must be white or blue, or your child may wear any SCS shirt purchased at school.
· Tennis shoes are required as part of the uniform for safety reasons. There will be no exceptions to this rule.
Student Recordkeeping
Teachers are responsible for the proper grading and recording of all academic work. The administration of grades (or any academic evaluation) is a matter of strict confidentiality between the teacher and the student. No student may grade the work of another student. Practices such as the trading of papers in class for the purposes of grading and the calling out of grades by students during class time are prohibited.
Curriculum Guides
Curriculum guides, pre-kindergarten through grade eight, developed according to the Texas Education Agency framework, provide the basic course of study for each subject area. Each teacher is provided with appropriate curriculum guides of the grade level or subject area he or she is teaching.
Report Cards
Report Cards are given to students every nine weeks. The first and third report cards are given to the parent at the parent / teacher / student conference at the end of the first and third grading periods. In addition, progress reports are issued at the midpoint of each nine week period. EDLINE is accessible to parents and students as a perpetual report of student progress. Parents and students are expected to use this tool to remain abreast consistently of academic progress.
A - 93-100 OUTSTANDING
B - 86-92 ABOVE AVERAGE
C - 85-78 AVERAGE
D - 77-70 BELOW AVERAGE
F - 69 > FAILURE
Grades K-8 will receive conduct and work habits grades every nine weeks.
E - EXCELLENT N - NEEDS IMPROVEMENT
S - SATISFACTORY U - UNSATISFACTORY
Report cards will be withheld if there are any outstanding debts (tuition, library fees, etc.)
Students will have to pay for lost or damaged report cards.
HONOR ROLL
An honor roll will be published four times yearly in the principal’s newsletter to parents.
To qualify for HIGH HONORS, a student must have no grade less than an “A” in all subjects and an “E” or “S” in conduct. To qualify for HONOR ROLL, a student must have no grade less than a “B” in all academic subjects and an “E” or “S” in conduct. Students in fourth through eighth grade participate in the school HONOR ROLL.
STANDARDS FOR SPORTS AND CHEERLEADING PARTICIPATION
Students will be eligible to participate in sports and cheerleading activities if they meet the following academic standards.
AWARDS ASSEMBLY
An awards assembly is held at the end of each school year. Students are recognized for academic excellence and other notable areas of achievement.
PRE-ALGEBRA AND ALGEBRA
Pre-algebra and algebra are offered to students in the 7th and 8th grade based on achievement test scores in the previous grade, an average of A in regular math class, and the recommendation of the math teacher. The student must have two of the three requirements to take pre-algebra or algebra. Pre-algebra students do not automatically enter algebra in the 8th grade.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
The principal shall be responsible for the establishment, implementation and publication annually in the parent-student handbook and in the employee handbook of any regulations governing promotion and retention of students of the local school. These regulations shall be made within the parameters established by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department and the Office of Catholic Schools. As applicable, the following shall be included in the regulations of the local school.
Elementary Grades In the elementary grades, to be promoted from one grade level to the next, a student shall perform as follows. The principal of each elementary school may modify the following.
· In grades one, two and three, the student shall attain an overall average of seventy (70) or above for the year which is derived by averaging the final numerical grade for religion, language arts, and mathematics.
· In grades four and five, the student shall attain an overall average of seventy (70) or above for the year which is derived by averaging the final numerical grade for religion, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science.
· Grades in all other subject areas, as they bear upon promotion and retention, shall be determined by local school regulation.
· The grading scale upon which promotion and retention are determined shall be published in the parent-student handbook.
Middle School Grades In the middle school grades (6-8), to be promoted from one grade level to the next, a student shall perform as follows. The principal of each elementary school may modify the following.
· A student shall attain an average of seventy (70) or above in five of the following subjects: religion, literature, English, mathematics, social studies, and science.
· The grading scale upon which promotion and retention are determined shall be published in the parent-student handbook.
· Graduation shall be contingent upon academic success as defined above.
CONFERENCES/VISITS
Teachers are most happy to consult with parents concerning their children. It is requested that parents not see a teacher during class time as teachers may not leave their classes for this purpose. During the school days, the teachers are charged with the responsibility of supervising the entire class of students; stopping them to consult distracts them from this important duty.
Appointments should be made through the office and will normally be scheduled during a teacher's planning period, before or after school. Two formal conferences are scheduled, and these dates are on the school calendar. Teachers' home phone numbers will not be given out for any reason.
Parents are requested not to call teachers or the principal at home unless a true emergency exists. The principal may be reached by appointment. Emergency phone messages to students during the school day will be sent to the students before dismissal.
Parents and visitors should refrain from standing in the hallways outside classroom doors. You may wait in the front school hall if you need to wait for dismissal of students.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES / PROGRAMS
Schools in the Diocese of Beaumont do not have Special Education classes. They do, however, try to provide individualized instruction for the children with special educational needs. Students who are suspected of having specific learning disabilities are referred to the public school in which the child resides for testing. After a referral packet is completed and the student is tested, recommendations are made to the school principal, child’s teacher (s) and parents. A decision is then reached as to what educational program would best meet the student’s needs. Every effort would be made by the Catholic school staff to meet those needs.
SPECIAL NEEDS, DIOCESAN VISION STATEMENT
The Diocese of Beaumont promotes a model of inclusion for children with mild disabilities / differences in our schools. We believe that children with mild disabilities / differences can be successful within the regular classroom setting when strategic teaching methods are utilized and appropriate accommodations are implemented. This philosophy is on the understanding that parents are active partners with the school and play a critical role in their child’s success.
The Diocese of Beaumont Intervention Protocol is based upon Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act – a civil right law requiring private schools to make student accommodations that are reasonable and within a school’s capability. Unlike the public school system, private schools do not receive State and Federal monies to fund special education programs. Therefore, we do not write or accept I.E.P.’s (Individualized Education Plans) as public schools are mandated to do. The Diocese of Beaumont Intervention Resource Guide provides a consistent education process for students enrolled in Catholic schools which includes the following.
Parents are expected to provide copies of all assessment information to schools in order that an appropriate student intervention plan can be written. Schools and parents collaborate to identify the accommodations that the school / family can provide to support the student’s success. In some cases it may become evident the severity of the disability / difference exceeds the level of accommodations the school may be able to offer the student.
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance has a direct bearing upon the student’s success in school. Regular attendance will be expected except in instances of personal illness, illness in the family, or death in the family. A student who is not present at the time appointed by the school for the commencement of the day shall be considered absent. Communication between the school and the parent(s) or guardian(s) is sufficiently frequent and comprehensive to ensure the success of the student.
All teachers shall keep daily records of attendance. At the end of each quarter these records shall be transferred to the student’s permanent record. Attendance is recorded on the attendance record, the permanent record and the report card for each student.
St. Catherine School is not in favor of requests to excuse students for any but the most important reasons. We are especially not in favor of requests to excuse a student for extended periods of time, particularly for vacations, while school is in session. A student will be considered in attendance if his or her absence is due to participation at an outside event as a representative of St. Catherine School.
Children are not allowed on campus unsupervised before 7:15 a.m. Supervision of students begins at 7:15 a.m. in the cafeteria. Students in pre-K will remain in the cafeteria with their teachers until 7:45. Students in grades 5 - 8 will gather in the gym. The school bell rings at 7:45 a.m. Students arriving after 7:50 are considered tardy and must be accompanied by a parent to obtain a tardy pass from the office before reporting to class.
GUIDELINES FOR ABSENCES
Absences are defined as missing a major portion of any single subject area. There are three kinds of absences.
1. EXCUSED ABSENCES - has the permission of both the parents and the school. Excused absences are considered absences and students are no longer eligible for perfect attendance. Excused absences include personal illness, serious illness in the family, death in the family, and emergencies (decision on what constitutes an emergency rests with the school and the persons involved in each case).
Short Term (1-3 days) - Upon return to school, the student is expected to make up missed work. The teacher will set the time for missed work to be completed.
Long Term (4 or more days) - Upon return to school, the student is expected to make up missed work within a reasonable amount of time. The time given to make up the work is at the discretion of the teacher and governed by the circumstances of the absence. Communication between the school and the parent(s) or guardian(s) should be sufficiently frequent and comprehensive during periods of prolonged absences to ensure the success of the student.
Grading - Student work made up after an excused absence is eligible for full credit depending on the quality, completeness, correctness, and neatness of the work. If the work does not meet the standards and criteria expected or, if the student fails to do the work at all, the grade for the assignment is given at the discretion of the teacher.
2. UNEXCUSED ABSENCE - has the permission of the parents but not necessarily the school. Unexcused absences include, but are not limited to vacations, business trips, hunting/fishing trips, etc.
Parents must give written notice, three days in advance, of any UNEXCUSED absence for their child. The written notice will be delivered to the school office for processing. If this procedure is not followed, work/tests will not be allowed to be made up.
If the above procedure is properly followed, upon return to school, the student is expected to make up missed work within a reasonable amount of time. The amount of time given to make up the work is at the discretion of the teacher and governed by the circumstances of the absence.
Student work made up after an UNEXCUSED absence is evaluated on the quality, completeness, correctness, and neatness of the work. If the work does not meet the standards and criteria expected, or if the student fails to do the work at all, the grade for the assignment is given at the discretion of the teacher.
3. TRUANCY - has neither permission of the school nor the parents to be away from the school during the school day. Leaving the school grounds without permission at any time during the school day is considered truancy, even if the student returns to school that day. The student shall not receive credit for work/test missed while truant. A truancy will result in a student’s being put on disciplinary probation. Dismissal from St. Catherine at this time is a possibility.
Please note that it is the students’ responsibility to request their assignments when they return from absences.
Absence Procedures
Tardy Procedures
The first bell rings at 7:45 a.m. The tardy bell rings at 7:50 a.m. Students arriving after the tardy bell are counted tardy and must report to the office for a tardy pass to their homeroom class.
Leaving School Procedures
No student may leave the school premises during the school day without approval from the principal’s office. Such approval is usually granted upon written request by the student’s parent or guardian.
Students must present a written request, dated and signed by the parent or guardian, if early dismissal is necessary. The request must indicate who will pick up the student and relationship of the person to the student. The student must be signed out in the school office.
If for illness or any other reason a student is sent home, the parent or guardian will be informed before a student is permitted to leave the school. Students must be “signed-out” in the office before he/she is permitted to leave the campus for dental, doctor appointments, illness, etc., and they must be “signed-in” when they return to school if the student returns to school that day.
Re-admittance Procedures after Absence
Written excuses, for any absence, must be presented to the office if you have not been contacted by phone. If no contact has been made either by phone or written excuse, the student will be admitted to class with an unexcused absence. A student absent for five days or more will require a doctor’s excuse to return to school.
Attending a School Event on a Day a Student Has Been Absent
A student who has been absent for a portion of the school day because of illness will NOT be allowed to attend or participate in a school event on that day without written permission from a doctor. This includes extra-curricular and athletic events.
RECORDS AND STUDENT WITHDRAWAL
St. Catherine of Siena School adheres to the Buckley Amendment (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act) regarding access to student records.
If a parent wishes to view or receive a copy of his / her student’s record, the principal should be notified twenty-four hours in advance. The official record file consists of academic transcripts, academic testing, health records, and emergency card.
Please notify the school at least 48 hours in advance of your withdrawal date to facilitate record processing. Report cards will be issued after all records have been cleared.
COMMUNICATIONS
Monthly Newsletter
Parents, guardians and students should read the monthly newsletter so that they will be acquainted with school activities and important information concerning the school.
Posters and Publications
The principal must first approve signs and posters that students wish to display. Posters displayed without authorization will be removed. All student publications and other written material intended for distribution to students shall be submitted to the principal for review and approval.
NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS
St. Catherine of Siena School abides by the provision of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding their child. It is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.
DISCIPLINE
PROCESS
The teachers are responsible for the instruction in their classrooms. Conduct rules are posted by teachers. Each student is responsible daily for the cooperative, well-disposed, and undistracted effort which will enhance successful learning. Parents are an essential element in maintaining the school's climate. Parents will be alerted to an ongoing problem by the teacher so that parents can encourage their student to use self-discipline. Teachers should document all student conflicts and parent contacts. If the problem does not get resolved after parents are contacted, the child will be referred to the principal. Students will not be penalized academically for disciplinary problems.
Every effort will be made to deal with disruptive student behavior in a manner that is consistent with Christian dignity and with respect for all persons involved. Additionally, every effort should be made to solve problems immediately and at the appropriate level. There is no substitute for open and honest communication whenever a question or problem arises. A teacher might include other teachers or administrators in conferencing or counseling with students, if a situation so warrants.
The normal process for consultation would be as follows:
1. Teacher - student
2. Teacher - parent contact (may include a telephone conference or a written note)
3. Administrative team - teacher - parent conference
ITEMS THAT ARE UNACCEPTABLE AT SCHOOL
Items not used directly in the educational process are not to be brought to school. These items include radios, tape players, CD players, computer games, etc., unless prior permission has been obtained from the teacher. Cell phones must be turned off and may not be used at school during regular school hours. Cell phones or other electronic devices that are seen or heard during regular school hours will be confiscated and must be retrieved from the principal.
Toys and trading cards also should not be brought to school, unless requested by the teacher. Items from travel, scientific or historical items, and other important items that might be brought from home for a specific class or subject should be taken promptly to the teacher. No outside sales of candy, or other items, is permitted at St. Catherine of Siena School.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY--STUDENTS
Students shall NOT engage in conduct constituting sexual harassment towards their peers, faculty, employees, or other members of the school community. Sexual harassment can result in disciplinary action or dismissal.
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, or other sexual conduct, either verbal or physical, or any conduct or other offensive unequal treatment that would not occur but for the sex of the person when the conduct, advances or requests have the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or otherwise offensive environment or of interfering with the performance or promotion of the individual.
A student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment as defined above shall bring the matter to the attention of the principal. The principal shall thoroughly investigate all complaints of sexual harassment.
Public Display of Affection
Any behavior that may be construed by others to be offensive will not be tolerated. This includes affectionate hand-holding, hugging, kissing, etc.
STUDENT BEHAVIOR
The following types of behavior will result in disciplinary action which may include demerits, detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.
DISCIPLINE CONSEQUENCES
All infractions of the student handbook policies will be handled as follows:
Grades K-8
Demerit Cards (Grades 6 – 8)
Teacher may use the following consequences:
DETENTION
After sufficient warning and at the discretion of teacher, a detention slip will be issued to the student, giving the reason for detention. These slips must be signed by a parent or guardian and returned the next day. Twenty-four hours notice will be given. Detention shall be held for a time determined by the teacher based on the infraction.
A child who is late to detention will not be able to serve detention. Failure to attend detention will double the detention time. Detention can be from 3:15 – 4:30 p.m. Detention takes precedence over appointments, practices, games, lessons, etc.
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
In-school suspension is the temporary removal of the student from his normal classes. The principal is the only school official that may exercise in-school suspension. The procedure for in-school suspension is as follows.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
Out-of-school suspension is defined as a temporary dismissal of a student from school. The principal is the only school official that may exercise out-of-school suspension. Students who have been disciplined through out-of-school suspension will be expected to make up all academic work assigned during the period of suspension. It is the responsibility of the student to discover the nature and extent of assignments missed. The procedure for in-school suspension is as follows.
EXPULSION
Expulsion is the permanent dismissal of a student from school. The principal is the only school official that may exercise expulsion. The procedure for in-school suspension is as follows.
SCHOOL POLICIES
CAFETERIA PROCEDURES
Students may purchase lunch tickets on Monday during homeroom only. The cafeteria serves hot lunches Monday through Friday. Checks should be made out to Saint Catherine School. Prayer is said before the students leave the classroom to go to the cafeteria. It is essential that your child displays good table manners and proper etiquette when eating in the cafeteria. It will make lunch time much more enjoyable for everyone.
FIELD TRIPS
· Field trips should provide a valuable educational or cultural experience for students.
· Field trips are privileges rather than rights. Students whose academic performance is poor through lack of effort or who are disruptive in their conduct may be denied this privilege.
· Written parental permission and provision for student safety are required as part of the planning for field trips. Verbal permission will not be accepted.
· Parent drivers are required to carry $ 100,000.00 in liability insurance.
· Dress for field trips will be according to the nature of the trip and be determined by the sponsor in accordance with the principal.
SACRAMENTAL POLICIES
Our Sacramental Policies require that students preparing for First Penance and First Eucharist must attend class instructions. The students are likewise expected to attend the weekly Eucharist Liturgy. The student must have been in our program TWO consecutive years before being eligible to join our sacramental preparation classes.
As parents, you are responsible for seeing that your child attends Mass on Saturday evening or Sunday morning and you are encouraged to attend as a family. It is important for the children to see that you value participation in the Mass.
BEHAVIOR DURING MASS
Students are expected to participate during the Mass by responding, kneeling and singing. The same discipline policies that apply at school apply at Mass. Students must wear dress uniforms to Mass.
FIRST RECONCILIATION
Children are introduced to the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance) with the beginning of their religious instruction. As with all the sacraments, the celebration of Penance for the first time must respect the right of the child, parents and the Church. The parents must attend the Reconciliation meeting in order to help prepare their child. This preparation is the cooperative effort of catechists and parents. The child will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the second grade when the concepts of redemption, sin, healing, love, and the Rite of Reconciliation are taught. Please follow the calendar for the Reconciliation meetings.
FIRST EUCHARIST
Children in the second grade are prepared for receiving the Eucharist for the first time through the cooperative efforts of the catechist and parent. Parents should follow the calendar for meeting dates that parents are required to attend. Two years of religious education (excluding pre-school) are minimum requirements for the sacrament. Older children who have not received their First Communion will prepare for this sacrament and will also be studying the material pertinent for that grade level. Parents are also required to attend the First Communion parents’ meeting.
STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM
Each year the school will administer the necessary intelligence, achievement, and reading tests. The schedule for these will be included in the annual school calendar.
SAFETY
Candles are not allowed in classrooms.
THE CLINIC
DISPENSING MEDICATION IN SCHOOL
Students will not be permitted to carry medication of any kind during the school day. All medication is to be stored in the school’s main office or clinic.
Only medication which is necessary for a child to remain in school will be made available during school hours. Authorized school personnel will make available only medication prescribed by a licensed physician or dentist and labeled by a licensed pharmacist with proper directions. Over-the-counter medication will not be made available unless the medication is presented to the school in its original container. Properly labeled medication will be made available only when it is accompanied by signed permission from the parent or legal guardian.
Each student’s medication must be in a properly labeled container with the following information.
· Student’s Name
· Physician/Dentist’s Name
· Date of prescription
· Name of medication
· Dosage
· Directions for administration
· Duration medication is to be given
When the course of a medication is completed, the parent or legal guardian should pick up any unused portion of the medication and its container within five school days. Unused medication or labeled prescription bottles that are left unclaimed after 5 days will be disposed.
If your child is sent to the school office because of serious illness or injury, you or the person you name on the emergency card will be notified. It will be your responsibility to get medical attention, unless the emergency is so great that your child must be taken immediately from school the place designated on your child’s emergency card.
To insure a safe and healthy atmosphere for your child in school, children with any of the following symptoms will be sent home.
If your child has any of the above symptoms in the morning before coming to school, please keep him/her at home. A student may not return to school until free from fever, vomiting, or diarrhea for 24 hours.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS
The health department requires that a pupil with childhood diseases remain out of school for a specific number of days. Listed below are exclusion days for contagious diseases.
Chicken Pox 7 days May return in 7 days if all lesions have hard scales.
Mumps 10 days May return in 10 days if no swelling or fever.
German Measles 7 days Also known as 3-day measles. May return earlier upon physician’s written permission
Measles 14 days
Whooping Cough 3-5 wks Exclude until free of cough or until released by physician.
Scarletina 7 days Or until released by physician.
Strep (Sore) Throat Until released by the physician.
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Until released by the physician.
Head Lice May return when on treatment has been given and free of “nits”
Scabies May return when treatment has begun.
Ringworm Must be under treatment and covered while in school.
Ringworm of Scalp Must have written release by physician.
HEALTH SCREENING
Hearing and vision test are given each year. If a child’s response is unsatisfactory, further testing by a doctor will be recommended. This testing is usually done during the first semester of the school year. Additional health programs for the school year will be determining each student’s height and weight, dental inspection (Primary Grades) and Scoliosis test for Grades 5-8 and head lice screening.
Child Abuse Prevention, Adoption, and Family Services Act
St. Catherine of Siena School abides by the Child Abuse Prevention, Adoption, and Family Services Act. This law mandates that all cases of suspected abuse and/or neglect be reported to Child Protective Services.
UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS
PURPOSE & INTENT
Uniforms are worn in order to present a pleasing appearance, to cultivate community and Christian modesty, and to eliminate competitiveness and distractions. Students are expected to be in full uniform daily. Teachers are expected to be vigilant in checking the complete observation of this regulation.
School uniforms are obtained from PARKER UNIFORM COMPANY OF HOUSTON. These must be ordered by mail. Ordering information is available in the school office any time during the year. Uniforms may also be purchased from PARKER during the summer on specified dates.
UNIFORM DRESS CODE
Mass Uniform for Girls: (Kindergarten-Grade Four) Plaid Jumper, white oxford button down collar blouse, white or navy socks (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue or black tennis shoes.
Daily Uniform for Girls: (Kindergarten-Grade Four) Short sleeve cotton knit shirt with school monogram, navy walking shorts, belt (blue, brown, black) white or navy socks, (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue, or black tennis shoes.
Mass Uniform for Boys: (Kindergarten-Grade Four) Khaki pants, blue button down collar oxford shirt with school monogram, belt (blue, brown, black), white or navy socks, (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue, or black tennis shoes.
Daily Uniform for Boys: (Kindergarten-Grade Four) Short sleeve navy knit shirt with school monogram, khaki walking shorts, belt (blue, black, brown - if belt loops are present), white or navy socks, (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue, or black tennis shoes.
Mass Uniform for Girls: (Grades Fifth-Eighth) Plaid skort, (length of skort must be in middle of knee) white button down collar oxford blouse, white or navy socks (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue or black tennis shoe.
Daily Uniform for Girls: (Grades Fifth-Eighth) Short sleeve cotton white knit shirt with school monogram, blue walking shorts or pants, belt (blue, brown, black), white or navy socks, (ankle length and visible), white, blue, brown, or blue tennis shoe.
Mass Uniform for Boys: (Grades Fifth-Eighth) Khaki pants, blue monogrammed oxford shirt, belt, (black, blue, brown), white or navy socks, blue, black, brown, or white tennis shoe.
Daily Uniform for Boys: (Grade Fifth-Eighth) Short sleeve navy knit shirt with school monogram, khaki walking shorts, belt (blue, brown, black), white or navy socks, (ankle length and visible), white, brown, blue, or black tennis shoe.
Mass uniforms are to be worn on days that students attend Mass. If you choose, you may wear this uniform everyday. The complete uniform must be worn all day.
MAINTENANCE
Parents are expected to maintain all uniforms properly. No torn clothes are allowed in school. All buttons should be in place and skirts properly hemmed to reach mid-knee. All shirts and blouses should have tails neatly tucked in. Pants designed with belt loops should be worn with a belt.
ACCESSORIES
HAIR STYLES
MAKE-UP
· Girls in Kindergarten through grade five should not wear make-up. Clear nail polish is allowed for these students.
· Girls in grades six through eight may wear soft tones on the face and eyes, and clear nail polish. No artificial nails are allowed.
· Make-up should not be applied while in a class, gym or cafeteria.
GROOMING
St. Catherine students are expected to exhibit a well-groomed appearance while on campus.
NON UNIFORM DAYS
SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
SCIENCE CLUB
The purpose of science club is to promote activities that will extend and enhance science knowledge for those students expressing interest therein. Membership is limited to 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Students are required to have a passing grade and S or better in conduct and must follow guidelines set forth by the Parent/Student Handbook to participate in the club’s field trips, which are after school or on Saturdays.
ART CLUB
The purpose of the art club is to promote art and assist the art teacher in projects involving art when the school calls upon them for assistance. Membership is limited to 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. Students are required to have a passing grade and S or better in conduct and must follow guidelines set forth by the Parent/Student Handbook to participate in the club’s field trips, which are after school or on
STUDENT COUNCIL
The student council is an organized group of St. Catherine students elected by their classmates and teachers to represent the student body. They meet regularly sharing in the life of the school, discussing real problems and speaking honest concerns. It is a learning experience about life, democracy, responsibility and ourselves. Membership must follow student council constitutional bylaws.
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
The St. Catherine Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society shall elect new members from the seventh grade following the first quarter grading period. Students must have a cumulative average of 90 or better to be considered. This average shall be derived from the sixth grade general average from the permanent record card as 4/5 of the average and the cumulative average of the first nine weeks of seventh grade as the other 1/5. Names of students who meet the scholarship requirements will be submitted to the faculty council. Nominated students will submit a “Student Activity Information Form” for review by the faculty council. Each faculty council member will rate the nominees on a scale of 1 (low) to 5 (high) in the areas of character, leadership, service and citizenship. Rating sheets of the faculty council members will be confidential. All students who receive an average score of 16 or higher will be invited to become members of the St. Catherine Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society.
SCHOOL PARTIES
Primary (Pre-Kindergarten--Grade 5)
Halloween Party--20 Minutes Christmas Party--45 Minutes
Valentine Party-- 20 Minutes Easter Egg Hunt-Optional
Other Grade Levels (Grades Six-Eight)
Halloween Party--Treat at Lunch Christmas Party--45 Minutes
Easter Party---Treat at Lunch.
Treats at lunchtime should not be elaborate: one cupcake, cookie, and drink.
EIGHTH GRADE GRADUATION
The principal schedules the date of the eighth grade graduation. The eighth grade religion teacher and the principal plan a special Mass. Awards are distributed after the Mass in church. A reception after the Mass is held in the school cafeteria.
The minimum dress code for graduation will be as follows.
SPECIAL PROGRAM AND ASSEMBLY RULES
1. Enter and leave in a quiet, orderly manner.
2. Be respectful and courteous to faculty, students and guests.
3. Express approval by applauding.
4. Talking should cease as soon as the person in charge of the program steps forward.
FIRE DRILLS
St. Catherine School is required to conduct at least one fire drill each month.
Fire drill signals: 3 bells - leave the building
1 bell - halt
2 bells - return to building
Teachers will familiarize students with fire drill routes from each classroom.
SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS FOR PARENTS
SCHOOL BOARD
School board members serve for a term of three years. No elected member shall serve more than three consecutive terms. Meetings are held monthly during the school year.
The school board’s mission is to provide quality Catholic education for our children and the building of community spirit. The board is responsible for school policies, annual budget, financial reporting, development, building maintenance, and promoting the school’s image in the community.
HOME AND SCHOOL ORGANIZATION
Meetings – A minimum of four times during the school year.
Purpose - To assist the school and work closely with the school principal, the school board, and the pastor.
Dues - At registration time, each family and all faculty are requested to pay $10.00 dues toward membership in this school organization.
Membership - All parents, grandparents, guardians and teachers of children attending St. Catherine of Siena School are welcome to attend the meetings of the Home and School Organization.
ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA SCHOOL FOUNDATION
St. Catherine of Siena School Foundation is a non-profit organization that was established in 1985. It is entrusted with developing an endowment fund to ensure the long-term viability of St. Catherine of Siena School. Donations to the foundation are living gifts in that they may benefit the students of the future as well as those of today. Donations may be made as a memorial to the deceased, to honor a loved one, or simply to show support of Catholic education. St. Catherine of Siena School Foundation also oversees the Irven and Emelie Marie Provost Walker Scholarship Fund. This fund, established by the Walker family, helps to provide a Catholic education for those who might otherwise not be able to afford one.
PARENTAL VOLUNTEER WORK
Parents’ financial commitment to the school in the form of tuition is not just your children’s admission to an opportunity, but yours as well. Fund-raisers and social activities are designed to help the school meet its financial responsibilities.
The school office and library need your help with mail-outs, typing, filing, library book record keeping, checking-in and checking-out of library books, magazines, reference materials, etc. Call the school office at 962-3011 to volunteer.
EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM
The purpose of our program is designed to provide organized supervision and instruction for children of working parents. Students will be assisted with homework assignments, deficiencies in basic skills and/or reading for pleasure. Time will be given for play and exercise also.
Hours are from dismissal time (early dismissal days included) until 5:30 p.m. Extended day care is not available on school holidays or on early dismissal days that fall before a holiday.
Children remaining at school after 3:20 p.m. will automatically be placed in extended day and will be charged. No exceptions.
Emergencies will be handled the same as during the regular school day. Parents will be contacted immediately in the event of an emergency.
Students must bring all books and assignments to the extended day program classroom each day. Each student may bring a snack and a drink. Snacks are not provided. Studies will begin at 3:45 p.m. The discipline policy for our extended day program is the same as the regular day policy. Please consult your Parent/Student Handbook.
No child is to be picked up from the extended day program without the teacher’s knowledge.
All students are to wait inside the building until parents arrive. Cost of the extended day program is as follows.
1 student $7.00 per day / $35.00 per week
2 students $9.00 per day / $45.00 per week
3 students $10.00 per day / $50.00 per week
Drop-ins $7.00 per family
Fees are due in advance either by the week or by the month. If fees are not current, children are subject to dismissal from the extended day program.
St. Catherine of Siena School will begin its extended day program on the first Monday in August after the first day of school.
MIDDLE SCHOOL REGULATIONS
DISMISSAL
Students will be dismissed no earlier than 3:05 p.m. on regular school days and at 12:00 on early dismissal days. Students are to be picked up at the side porch near the parking lot. Students are not allowed to wait for rides anywhere else. For safety reasons, students must remain on the porch until their ride reaches the porch. Students should be picked up no later that 3:20 p.m. If the student is not picked up by this time he/she will be put into the extended day program and will be charged for this service.
HANDWRITING
The proper heading on all assignments for grades 5 through 8 is as follows.
Name (first and last)
Teacher’s name
Subject / Period
Date
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
· Follow school policy.
· No caps are to be worn in the buildings.
· No gum is allowed on campus.
· No electronic devices or toys are allowed.
· Spectators of sporting events should remain in the bleacher areas only. Students who wish to attend games must go home first and then come back for the game with parent supervision.
· Students who are inappropriately dressed as deemed by the faculty or staff will be asked to leave.
DANCES
Students must make prior arrangements for leaving dances.
Only sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students from SCS are invited to the dances. Special invitations to other students may be extended at the discretion of the moderator.
Student council dances are the Howdy dance and a spirit dance. Dress for these dances will be determined when a theme for the dance is chosen. The student council advisor will obtain approval of the dress code from the principal.
The Mardi Gras and Graduation dance are dances sponsored by the 8th grade parents. Mardi Gras Dance dress will be as follows.
The dress for the graduation dance will be decided upon by the eighth grade parent committee and be approved by the principal.
SERVICE HOURS
As part of the Eighth Grade Religion Course, each student will be required to earn ten service hours. This service time constitutes five percent of the student’s religion grade for the year and is computed into the second semester grade. Service hours may be earned between June and May 1st, of each year, and must be turned into the religion teacher no later than May 1st. Service is defined as any activity undertaken on behalf of a non-profit church, school, and charitable or civic organization. Chores or activities undertaken for family or friends are not considered. Some personal service activities may be acceptable, such as lawn care or baby-sitting for a needy neighbor, so long as the student receives no compensation and verification is provided on the proper forms.
Verification of services must be on the organization letterhead and signed by an adult sponsor or director. If this is not possible, the student should obtain a form from his/her teacher and have it signed by the appropriate adult. No service time verified by fellow students or submitted on notebook paper or other scraps of paper will be accepted. Students may perform tasks for faculty and staff. All such service completed must be verified by the faculty sponsor.
LITURGY and WORSHIP
Students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through grade eight attend Mass weekly. Mass begins at 8:30 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church. Morning prayers are recited over the public address system each morning at 7:50 a.m. In addition, students will be given opportunities during the school year to participate in other types of worship in keeping with our Catholic faith and traditions. All parents and friends are invited to worship with us.
CLASS SCHEDULES
REGULAR CLASS SCHEDULE 7:45-8:00 Homeroom
8:00-8:48 1st Period
8:48-9:36 2nd Period
9:36-10:24 3rd Period
10:24-11:12 4th Period
11:12-12:00 5th Period
12:00-12:30 Lunch
12:30-1:20 6th Period
1:20-2:10 7th Period
2:10-2:55 8th Period
2:55-3:05 Homeroom
HALF DAY SCHEDULE 7:45-8:00 Homeroom
First Semester 8:00-9:00 1st Period
9:00-10:00 2nd Period
10:00-11:00 3rd Period
11:00-11:55 4th Period
11:55-Noon Homeroom
Second Semester 7:45-8:00 Homeroom
8:00-9:00 5th Period
9:00-10:00 6th Period
10:00-11:00 7th Period
11:00-11:55 8th Period
11:55-Noon Homeroom
MORNING LITURGY (MASS) SCHEDULE
7:45-8:15 Homeroom 8:30-9:30 Liturgy Mass
9:30-10:00 1st Period
10:00-10:30 2nd Period
10:30-11:00 3rd Period
11:00-11:30 4th Period
11:30-12:00 5th Period
FOLLOW REGULAR AFTERNOON SCHEDULE
ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE-GRADES 6-7-8 – Afternoon classes will be rotated as needed to accommodate assemblies.
SCHOOL’S RIGHT TO AMEND HANDBOOK
St. Catherine School retains the right to amend this handbook. Parents will be notified of any changes.