OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL Wilton, CT PARENT/STUDENT
Transcription
OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL Wilton, CT PARENT/STUDENT
OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL Wilton, CT PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 2014-2015 GENERAL INFORMATION Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mission Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vision Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parent’s Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accreditation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Safety & Security . . . . . . . . . . . . Accidents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crisis Plan/Fire Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Cancellations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival & Departure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dismissal Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bus Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bus Safety & Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Volunteers/Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Virtus Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 STUDENT INFORMATION Admissions/Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Transfer Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Withdrawal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Change of Student Information . . . . . . . 9 Child Custody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Suspected Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Tuition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Tuition Rates for 2014-2015 . . . . . . . . . 9 Delinquent Tuition Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Financial Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Refund Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Academic Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Photos/Public Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Truancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Notes to Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 After School Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Lunch Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Extra-Curricular Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 School Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Foreign Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Religion/Sacraments/Masses . . . . . . . . 14 Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Additional Grooming Rules . . . . . . . . . . 17 Dress Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 CONDUCT Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Respect for Teachers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Bullying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 General Rules of Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Recess & Playground Behavior . . . . . . . 20 Cell Phones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Cheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Plagiarism and Forgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Technology Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Hallway Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Bathroom Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Smoking and Alcohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Detention System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 24 ACADEMIC POLICIES Academic Expectations and Standards . 24 Homework Request Procedure . . . . . . . 25 Report Cards for Kindergarten . . . . . . . . 26 Report Cards for Grades 1-8. . . . . . . . . . 26 Grading System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Honor Roll Grades 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 National Junior Honor Society . . . . . . . . 28 Standardized Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Retention (Criteria) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Shadowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Policies on Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Nurse Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Medications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Food Allergy Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Student Birthdays . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . 33 Fund Raisers During School. . . . . . . . 33 Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARD. . . . . .33 HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION Home School Association . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Fundraising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Policy Agreement Form . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Our Lady of Fatima School 2014 - 2015 STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK Rev. Reginald Norman -Pastor Ms. Martha Reitman -Principal ACKNOWLEDGEMENT All Parents/Guardians and students are required to read and discuss the Student Handbook. COMMUNICATIONS SCHOOL TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Our Lady of Fatima School Office School Fax Our Lady of Fatima Church Rectory Our Lady of Fatima Religious Education School Nurse 203-762-8100 203-834-0614 203-762-3928 203-762-9080 203-762-8100 SCHOOL WEBSITE: www.olfcatholic.org General Office Email [email protected] All general school business and attendance reporting is done through the school office. Please use the number listed above. The school website is a primary form of communication. Please use it to obtain calendars, schedules, forms and other school classroom news. The My Students Progress emergency notification system will be used to notify parents and teachers of any news, emergency information, and other important information. Parents are asked to give the school three different ways parents can be reached in case of an alert notification. GENERAL INFORMATION INTRODUCTION Our Lady of Fatima School is a Roman Catholic-co-educational day school serving Wilton, CT. and the surrounding towns, comprising students from Pre-K 3 (3 year olds) and Pre-K 4 (4 year olds) through 8thgrade. Our Lady of Fatima is under the auspices of the Diocese of Bridgeport and it supports their policies. The Diocese has created a Code of Conduct to be used as a guide within each of the Diocesan schools to create and maintain a safe school environment where all individuals are valued and treated with respect and where the curriculum is accessible to all 2 students. The Code of Conduct is consistent with Catholic teaching and it is supportive of democratic values. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Our Lady of Fatima School is to provide, in a creative atmosphere, a child-centered education of academic excellence for our students from Preschool through 8th grade. It is based on Catholic principles and traditional Christian values supported by strong family commitment. VISION STATEMENT Our Lady of Fatima School attends to the spiritual, academic, social, emotional and physical needs of our students based upon the gospel message of Jesus to “love one another as I have loved you,” within a safe, nurturing and academically stimulating environment. Our Lady of Fatima School is a Catholic school community committed to instilling in students Christian values and academic excellence. As members of this community we recognize that each child is uniquely created by God. We strive to provide for and to encourage each child’s spiritual, social, intellectual, emotional and physical development. Towards the achievement of these goals, the Our Lady of Fatima School community creates a challenging, yet respectful environment for all. With emphasis on the mastery of skills and self-discovery, the learning environment at Our Lady of Fatima School provides for the maturation and development of the whole child. Christian values are integrated into all areas of the curriculum as well as in areas of discipline and student relations. We encourage a deep respect for the dignity of each human being and we believe that students must be made aware of our Christian obligation towards others. Within the context of this philosophy, we aspire to these goals: To develop awareness of spirituality in ourselves and in others and to foster the knowledge of faith; To encourage academic excellence by developing basic skills, good study habits and critical thinking skills; To foster physical growth and well-being through appropriate health and fitness instruction; To promote attitudes of respect for ourselves and others as human beings; To encourage the development of individual autonomy through positive self-awareness and cooperative relationships among students, families and staff. PARENTS’ PRAYER Most loving Father, the example of parenthood, you have entrusted our children to us to bring them up for you and prepare them for everlasting life. Assist us with your grace, that we may fulfill this sacred duty with competence and love. Teach us what to give and what to withhold. Show us when to reprove, when to praise, and when to be silent. Make us gentle and considerate yet firm and watchful. Keep us from the weakness of indulgence and the excess of severity. Give us the courage to be disliked sometimes by our children when we must do necessary things which are displeasing in their eyes. Give us the imagination to enter their world in order to understand and to guide them. Grant us all the virtues we need to lead them be example in the ways of 3 wisdom and piety. One day, with them, may we enter into the joys of our true and lasting home with you in Heaven. Amen. ACCREDITATION Our Lady of Fatima School is accredited through the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (N.E.A.S.C.). In 2009, the school received the distinction of being named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY Our goal is to provide a safe and secure environment for our pupils, staff and visitors. Everyone, students and parents included, must work together in order to accomplish this goal. Policies have been put into place to make our facilities a safe and secure place for all. All doors to the school building are locked at all times. Anyone wishing to enter the building must use the buzzer and intercom at the front entrance. Once the visitor has been recognized by office personnel, the door lock will be released and the door can be opened. Students are not permitted to open the door for visitors. Once inside the building, all visitors must report directly to the office and sign in and/or obtain a visitor’s or volunteer’s badge. Accidents All accidents on school premises shall be reported to the Principal immediately. The Principal shall complete an accident form. The Superintendent shall be informed by the Principal of any accidents. It is the responsibility of the Principal to immediately inform the Superintendent of School of any accidents that occur on school premise or off-premise relating to a student or a faculty member. School Buildings All school buildings shall conform to federal and state laws governing safety and sanitation. The Principal shall see to it that regular attention is given to the cleanliness and proper maintenance of the building. School Doors All school entrances are to be locked at all times. Only specified school personnel may admit visitors. All visitors must report and register at the school office. Visitors must wear an identifying badge for the duration of the visit. No visitor is exempt from this policy. Interior doors to classrooms must be closed and locked during the school day. Teachers or students may admit the Principal, other faculty or invited visitors who have registered in the front office in to the classroom. 4 CRISIS PLAN Our Lady of Fatima School has a detailed Crisis Plan which is evaluated and modified annually or as needed by the Crisis Team and the school faculty in consultation with local authorities. All staff members share the responsibility to keep the children of Our Lady of Fatima School safe. Detailed crisis plans are distributed to the staff annually. Students are instructed in the procedures to follow in the event of an emergency situation (see below.) Fire drills are conducted throughout the school year to give the students an opportunity to practice evacuating the building. During an evacuation, absolute silence is the rule. Students should proceed as quickly as they can to their assigned places. Teachers will review emergency procedures with the students. Fire Alarm (alarm sounds): Immediate evacuation of the building according to the posted directions in each classroom. Evacuation to distant location (announcement over P.A.): Immediate evacuation to Our Lady of Fatima Church. Lockdown (announcement over P.A.) (short term): Immediate perimeter lock down, including doors and windows. Students should move beyond view from windows and doors and remain there until the threat is lifted. An announcement shall include specific information. Parents should not attempt to collect their children during a crisis situation, unless notified via official communication from the school. SCHOOL HOURS School Start Time 8:00 am – Grade 6-8 8:15 am – Grades K-5 The gym is open and supervised at 7:45 for student drop-off. Students must wait in the gym until their school day starts. All PreK students may report directly to the PreK classrooms. Students who arrive at school late must report to the office to be signed in by a parent/guardian before entering class. Regular dismissal time is 2:45 p.m. On scheduled early dismissal days, dismissal will be at 12:00 p.m. If your child has not been picked up by 3pm, he/she will be placed in the After School Program for a designated fee. If you know you are running late, please call and notify the office. In addition, once a student leaves the school building at the end of the school day, he or she may not return except for scheduled activities. 5 SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS Cancellation of school takes place only during extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather, utility failure, or public crisis. School will not be cancelled unless a significant safety risk has been created by unusual circumstances. Our Lady of Fatima School follows the decision of Wilton Public Schools with regard to cancellation or delay. Notification will be made on local Connecticut TV stations. Parents will also receive an alert from our Automated School Response system (phone, text, email). ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE If you drive your child to school, please enter by the Our Lady of Fatima Church driveway from Danbury Rd. and proceed to the entrance by the field. If you are coming into the building, please park in a designated parking space. Dismissal is also through the back entrance. Please REMEMBER for the SAFETY of all our children: No parking along the front of the school building on either side of the main entrance. No parking along the gym side of the building. No parking along curbs in undesignated areas. NO STOPPING at the front entrance of the building to discharge or pick up a child. You must park in the spaces designed in the parking lot. No one may interfere with the progress of any school bus. They have the right of way. You must inform any person authorized to bring or pick up your child of the above rules. Parents MUST check to be sure that there is a coach or moderator present before they leave their child at school for any extracurricular activity. DISMISSAL PROCEDURES Dismissal for all full-day students is at 2:45 p.m. Dismissal on half-days is 12:00 Noon. Parents should send in a note if there is a change in the time or person picking up their child/children. Parents should also advise said person to provide proper identification when asked. If we do not receive a note, all students will be expected to do what they normally do after school (be picked up by parents, babysitter, take the bus, etc.). BUS PROCEDURES Bus transportation is provided to Wilton residents within the town of Wilton. The Town of Wilton determines the bus routes and stops for our students. Any questions or clarifications regarding 6 the school bus policy are to be directed to the school office (203) 762-8100. If you have any concerns about observed behavior on the bus, please contact the school. BUS SAFETY AND CONDUCT The safety of all students is in the hands of the bus drivers. Help make their job easier by cooperating with their rules. They are looking after the best interest of all concerned. Students should take only the assigned bus and use only the assigned bus stop. Orderly behavior is required at the bus stop. No child is allowed to ride the bus unless a written note is sent by a parent and is presented to the school office. The note will be signed by the Principal and copied for the bus driver. In the event that there isn’t any space on the bus for an extra rider, the parents will be notified. PLEASE NOTE: Infractions of bus regulations as stated by the bus company will result in a conduct slip issued by the bus company through the Transportation Department. These notices are sent to the Principal who will address the situation with the student/s and parents will be notified. Repeated bus misbehavior will result in bus suspension. In any case involving bus problems, additional sanctions may be taken at the discretion of the principal. VOLUNTEERS/VISITORS Volunteers are needed and welcome at Our Lady of Fatima School. Parents who wish to volunteer may contact the Administration/ Main Office or the Home School Association President. Parents are also encouraged to participate in the various activities of the Home School Association. However, in order to volunteer, all volunteers are required by Diocesan Policy to complete Virtus Training (see below) and a criminal background check. The Virtus Training Program (Protecting God’s Children) is offered at various times throughout the year and will be announced via the website and school letters. For more information, please contact the office. All visitors must report and register at the school office. Visitors must wear an identifying badge for the duration of the visit. No visitor is exempt from this policy. All parents and visitors must park in the OLF Church parking lot during school hours. Upon entering the school, parents are to sign in at the Main Office and obtain a visitor/volunteer sticker. Only those visitors or volunteers who have authorization from the Administration may go through the building or classroom. After signing in, visitors or volunteer parents are asked not to make contact with their child/children during school hours. Please note that the Principal must approve any correspondence distributed by volunteers to any portion of the school community or displayed on the OLF website. VIRTUS TRAINING We are in compliance with the Diocesan Policy of the Safe Environment Program and require the parents to follow the Diocesan Policy, which includes the following: Sexual Misconduct Policy, Code of Conduct Policy, Background Check, and Virtus Training. It is the intent of the Diocese of Bridgeport, in compliance with the Charter for Protection of Children and Young People, to 7 provide a safe environment for all children serviced by the Diocese. To that end, all parents who are interested in volunteering at Our Lady of Fatima School, in any capacity, must meet the following requirements or they will not be allowed to volunteer: They must register for a Virtus t raining session online www.virtus.online.org. All the following forms must be signed and a copy of the Certificate of Training Attendance must be returned to the School Office: 1. Acknowledgement of Receipt of the Sexual Misconduct Policy Form. 2. Authorization for a Background Check Form. 3. Acknowledgement of Receipt of the Code of Conduct Policy Form. STUDENT INFORMATION ADMISSIONS AND REGISTRATION Admissions policy for all students is as follows: First acceptances Re-Registrants Second acceptances Siblings of present students Third acceptances Children of active parishioners in local parishes Fourth acceptances Children transferring from a Catholic school outside the local area. Fifth acceptances Catholic children from outside the local parish area Sixth acceptances All others Registration dates and times are published in the church bulletin and newspaper. A child entering kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September 1st of that year. The Diocese of Bridgeport schools admit students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. Students with special needs shall be given the same consideration as all applicants. However, prior to admitting a student with diagnosed special needs, Our Lady of Fatima shall make a determination as to whether or not it feels it can provide an appropriate education for that child. All children entering Our Lady of Fatima School must present immunization records as required by State Statutes, a birth certificate, and Baptismal certificate even if baptized at Our Lady of Fatima Church. All new students seeking admission to Our Lady of Fatima School are evaluated on the basis of standardized test scores and report cards as well as by a grade level screening test. This information will then be reviewed to determine whether the program at Our Lady of Fatima School will meet the educational needs of the student. A personal interview with the principal and the applicant for students applying for grades 6th through 8th is part of the admission process. In the Our Lady of Fatima school philosophy, it is stated that we encourage academic excellence and we guide the child to develop individual autonomy through positive self-awareness and cooperative relationships among students, families and staff. If a child is put in a situation where he/she would not be able to achieve academically, we are setting that child up for failure and a poor self-image. Therefore, final decisions regarding admittance rest with the principal, who will weigh a student’s needs with the school’s ability to provide for that student. 8 Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten: In order to enter these programs, a student must meet the following age requirement: Pre-Kindergarten 3: Must reach age of 3 by September 1t.. Pre-Kindergarten 4: Must reach age of 4 by September 1st. Kindergarten: Must reach age of 5 by September 1st. TRANSFER STUDENTS INTO OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL Students may transfer into Our Lady of Fatima School at any time during the school year. Acceptance is based on space availability and readiness and willingness to assume the responsibilities outlined in this handbook as well as the results of the screening. WITHDRAWAL FROM OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL An exit interview with the Principal is required before a student can be withdrawn and records transferred. RECORDS WILL NOT BE RELEASED UNTIL TUITION ACCOUNTS AND ALL FEES INCLUDING AFTER-SCHOOL AND HSA ARE PAID IN FULL. CHANGE OF STUDENT INFORMATION If basic information pertinent to school records (address, phone number, employment, emergency numbers, etc.) or marital status should change, the parents must notify the school, in writing, as soon as that change becomes effective. CHILD CUSTODY In cases of divorced or separated parents, the school assumes joint custody unless otherwise notified by the custodial parent. In all custody cases, documentation must be provided to the school by the parents to be kept on file. It is the responsibility of the parents to notify the school of any changes in custody. SUSPECTED ABUSE State Law requires that all cases of abuse be reported to the CT Department of Children and Families (DCF). It is important to note that all teachers, administrators, staff and even volunteer (or paid) coaches are MANDATED REPORTERS, and as such are required by law to make a report to DCF in certain circumstances. It is not the job of the mandated reporter to make a determination as to the credibility, accurateness or severity of a circumstance – that is the function of DCF. Failure to report an incident could result in fines and liability. TUITION Registration takes place in January/February for the following school year. In-house registration for students enrolled at Our Lady of Fatima School will be offered before any outside enrollment is taken. Our Lady of Fatima School uses the SMART Tuition Management Program to collect all tuition. TUITION RATES FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2014-2015 9 Tuition rates are published annually and are available in the office and online at: www.olfcatholic.org/admissions DELINQUENT TUITION POLICY If an account becomes delinquent, the parent(s) or guardian of the student(s) will be contacted by a member of the Administrative Team. Should the family be experiencing economic hardship, it is essential that the parent(s) or guardian meet with the Pastor and/or the Principal in a timely manner to discuss an equitable plan. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Financial assistance may be available to families in need. Confidential inquiries should be made to the School Secretary at (203) 762-8100. An application must be submitted to FACTS before financial assistance is awarded. REFUND POLICY Refunds shall only be granted by permission of the Principal and in accordance with Diocesan tuition guidelines. If student has begun any portion of an academic quarter and then transfers out of Our Lady of Fatima School, a refund shall not be granted for that quarter. ACADEMIC RECORDS The school will maintain a cumulative record which includes basic information, academic achievement, grade level, attendance, standardized test scores, and medical history. Student records are confidential. However, a parent or legal guardian has the right to examine his/her child’s file, and may arrange to do so by contacting the principal. The release of student information or transfer of records will take place only with the written consent of the parent or legal guardian. This is handled through the school office. Our Lady of Fatima School complies with all federal, state, and diocesan policies with regard to student records. PHOTOS/PUBLIC RELATIONS Throughout the year, school programs, achievements and special events are given attention through any number of publications or literature such as local area newspapers and the school website. Information disseminated through this publicity gives us the opportunity to highlight to the school community and the community at large the positive attributes that an education at Our Lady of Fatima School can provide for your students. The distribution of these pieces varies according to the type of publication and the target audiences. The literature can be mailed to our current parents, alumni parents and alumni. Information can be seen by the general public on our website or in the local newspapers. Parents are asked to sign the photo release form distributed at the start of the school year. ATTENDANCE When a child is ill, a parent is to call the school to report an absence by 8:30 AM each day the child is absent. This is for the child’s own safety. Children are to bring written notes from the parents following an absence from school giving the reasons for the absence even though a phone call has been made. Parents who have children with an extended absence due to a communicable disease should call the school nurse to inform her of the reason for the absence. Regular dentist and doctor appointments during school hours should be kept to a minimum. If a student is excused 10 early because of dental, medical or other appointments, a written note is required. Parents must meet their children at the office and sign them out. Upon their return to school, the parents sign their children back in. The Office for Education strongly believes that family vacations should not take place when school is in session. Should such a vacation occur during school time, it will be deemed an unexcused absence. School vacations may not be taken during standardized testing, mid-terms and finals. Students may not participate in any school-sponsored event if they are not in school on the day of the event without the express permission from the principal. Students who have four unexcused absences in one month, or ten unexcused absences in a school year, are considered truant. Additional Notes on Missed Days and Student Work: If a student misses two days of school, he or she will have two days to make up their work, etc. It is the student's responsibility to approach the teacher and make up any student work missed. After waiting the prescribed number of days, a teacher may issue detention(s) for missing work. If the student fails to make up the assignments in the allotted time, a failing grade will be issued. Substitute assignments are not as beneficial as regular classes. In the case of a lengthy absence or extended recuperation, this rule may be relaxed by the teacher in consultation with the principal and parents. Parents are asked not to take students on vacations while school is in session. If a situation does arise where a student must miss school for special reasons, it can only be done with the authorization of the principal. Work will not be given in advance when students leave for an unscheduled vacation; it will be made up as soon as possible upon returning to school. Unexcused absences such as unscheduled vacations during school time will count against a student’s record and teachers are not required to give advance work or make up work. An unexcused absence during mid-year or final exams may result in a zero grade for the exam. Parents should check the yearly calendar before scheduling such a vacation. Excessive absences could result in retention. Provisions for Home Instruction A student unable to attend school for health reasons is eligible for home instruction provided through the local public school district’s board of education. For more details see Diocesan Policy 3.312 TRUANCY Students in Kindergarten through grade, who have four unexcused absences in any month or ten unexcused absences in any school year, are considered truant. If a student has ten unexcused absences in a given school year, that student is classified as a habitual truant. In cases of truancy, the school will make every effort to contact parents and resolve to correct the situation. If, however, all efforts fail, the matter must be turned over to the State Education Department and appropriate community agencies. 8th NOTES TO BE SENT TO THE OFFICE ON FOLLOWING OCCASIONS Please send a written note to the office on the following occasions when your child: 1. has been absent. 2. must leave school during school hours. 3. is going on a scheduled vacation. 4. does not complete homework due to unforeseen family circumstances. 11 5. has a change in transportation arrangements. Absence without a call from a parent is considered unexcused until a note from the parent is received. AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM 2014-2015 We are happy to offer you continued service with our After-School program beginning the first day of school, September 2, 2014. The program provides a structured, safe and supervised place to be after school for fun and friendship with adults and schoolmates. The program helps children to develop social skills and learn to handle conflicts in socially acceptable ways. Children who participate in the After-School program must follow the program rules and regulations. We reserve the right to exclude a child if he/she consistently deviates from these rules. The program is available only to Our Lady of Fatima students. Marie Beltrami continues as the program director and the staff consists of OLF teachers. The After-School program is in session from the end of school each day until 6pm. On early dismissal days the program is usually in session. If the program will not be in session on early dismissal days, you will be given ample time to make alternate arrangements for your child. Children should bring a lunch on early dismissal days. If OLF is dismissed because of inclement weather After-School will also close. The fee for each child is $15/day ($75/week). If your child is picked up between 3 -4 pm there will be an adjusted charge of $10. After 4 pm you will be charged the full $15 fee. If your child will be involved in the school band program or the OLF Parish Children’s choir and comes to After-School before these activities you will be charged $10 as long as the child is picked up after the activity. If the child returns to the AfterSchool program you will be charged the regular $15 fee. In the event that you arrive after 6 pm, you will be charged $20 for every ten minutes you are late by our clocks. The office will bill you monthly and prompt payment is expected. On half days the fees will be as follows: 12pm-3pm $15/child 12pm-6pm $30/child The children will receive a snack each day on their arrival. We provide supervised homework time and help if needed. We have a variety of games and activities and encourage the children to play outside on the playground if weather permits. We ask that you fill out the attached registration sheet for your child and either drop it in the office or have your child bring it the first day of school and hand it to his/her teacher. It is extremely important that we have your emergency contact numbers as we do not always have access to paperwork in the main office. We have a cell phone for After-School use only if you should need to contact us. That number is 203-5127321. If you are not picking up your child from After-School, we must have written permission to release your child to someone other than you. We will ask for identification if we are not familiar with alternate pick- up people. Forms are available in the School Office. We look forward to seeing our old friends and meeting new ones! Notify both the school office and the After School Program Director of any change of information concerning the After School Program. PAYMENTS OF ALL FEES ARE DUE ON TIME. STUDENTS MAY BE ASKED TO LEAVE THE PROGRAM DUE TO NON-PAYMENT. SCHOOL REPORT CARDS AND RECORDS WILL NOT BE 12 RELEASED UNTIL ALL PAYMENTS ARE UP TO DATE. ALL BILLING INFORMATION ORIGINATES DIRECTLY FROM THE SCHOOL OFFICE. Georgia’s Grill, LLC HOT LUNCH PROGRAM 225 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897 [email protected] Welcome to Our Lady of Fatima School Hot Lunch Program. Georgia’s Grill is proud to offer a varied, well balanced and nutritious lunch program to the student body, faculty and staff at OLF School. Please join our program at any time. In order to run an efficient program, some procedures are in place: Lunches are $4.25 per meal Forms are available on www.olfcatholic.org by the 16th of each month Forms with payment are due to Georgia’s Grill by the 28th of each month Late forms & payment will receive an alternative meal Payment should be made payable to Georgia’s Grill Payment is to be made in advance of the month Forward payment is accepted on a monthly, quarterly, semester or annual basis There is no refund due to absences, inclement weather (cancellation or early dismissal) or field trips It is at the discretion of Georgia’s Grill if a credit will be issued for previous balances We hold firm to cut off dates to efficiently and safely administer the lunch program. Orders and payments are managed by classroom, and are distributed to each classroom for the month. Attached is a lunch menu for September as an example of the variety of meals and alternatives available. Suggestions to the menu are welcomed. A binder is kept in the kitchen listing all ingredients used in food preparation. We are not held responsible for children’s allergies, but use every precaution to avoid any life threatening reactions. If there are concerns regarding allergies or special diet requirements for your children, please contact me directly at [email protected] . Georgia’s Grill works very closely with the school nurse to ensure proper meal preparation and offerings. Speaking with you directly regarding your family is appreciated to proactively address any special needs. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ATHLETICS Members of the cross country, field hockey and basketball teams are subject to behavioral and academic standards to allow continued participation in their respective sport. These are defined in the athletic handbook. Students who represent the school by being on a sports team must remember that membership is a privilege to be earned and not a right to be expected. STUDENT COUNCIL The purpose of this organization is to service the needs of the school and local community. Student Council is comprised of 4 elected officers, as well as elected representatives from the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade homerooms. Student Council members must represent and exhibit 13 Christian standards of behavior and comply with Our Lady of Fatima’s rules and regulations. Student Council members are role models and must adhere to the highest expectations. BAND After school Band lessons are offered by Paul Effman Music Service. Information and fee schedule are handed out at an informational session at the start of the school year. All instruments are the sole responsibility of the student. CLUBS Non-academic clubs are offered after school throughout the year. The types of club change from year to year. These clubs are offered by the faculty of Our Lady of Fatima. An additional fee is assessed and is determined by the nature of the club. Examples are: Cooking Club, Magic Club, Lego Club, etc. BOOKS Textbooks are school property and should be treated with care. Students must keep textbooks covered (no contact paper or removable self-adhesive vinyl) throughout the school year. The student to whom the book was issued must pay for a lost, damaged, or defaced book. The student’s name, subject, and grade must be on each book cover. Covers should be changed according to need throughout the year. Students must carry their books in an appropriate book bag or back pack. SCHOOL SUPPLIES With the exception of Pre-K, students are responsible for their own school supplies. Teachers will provide a list of the supplies students will need for the upcoming school year. FIELD TRIPS Field trips are held at various times during the school year. Field trips are connected to the curriculum and have clear educational and/or cultural value. Parents will be notified well in advance and all children are expected to participate. Permission to attend the field trip must be given using the official slip sent home. A simple note will not suffice. Participation in a field trip is a privilege and a student can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavioral requirements. No child will be allowed to remain in school when his/her class is on a field trip if the parent chooses not to have their child attend the field trip. Students not participating in field trips should remain home that day and will be marked with an excused absence. There are limited numbers of chaperones for each trip. The exact number depends upon the particular venue and the age of the students. This will be determined by the teacher and administration. When more adults volunteer than are needed to chaperone, those selected will be picked by lottery. Parents who have attended one trip will not be eligible for another trip, unless not enough have signed up. FOREIGN LANGUAGE French and Spanish classes are offered to students in Grade 5-8 LIBRARY All students in grades K through 8th grade visit the Library with their class. A quiet, courteous atmosphere must be maintained at all times. Books are loaned for one week and may be renewed once. A student whose book is late or missing may not borrow any other books. If a book is not returned after one month, it will be considered lost and the student and his/her parent/s will be charged the cost of the book. The same applies to books that are damaged beyond repair. 14 RELIGION PROGRAMS, SACRAMENTS & SCHOOL MASSES Students who are members of Our Lady of Fatima Church receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist in GRADE 2. Students who are members of other parishes have the option to receive these sacraments in their own parishes or join the celebration at Our Lady of Fatima. Our Lady of Fatima school attends mass WEEKLY on Fridays. All students in Pre-K through 8th grade may attend Mass at other times as indicated on the school calendar. Students and individual classes may be called upon to prepare liturgies and respectful participation is expected. Parents are invited to attend all liturgies. Parents are encouraged to attend Sunday Mass with their children. The school can only reinforce what is valued in the home. COMPLETE UNIFORM POLICY/DRESS CODE 2014-2015 Your school uniform confirms your attendance at Our Lady of Fatima School and is the symbol of unity within the school community. It minimizes distractions in the learning process. It is important that you take pride in your appearance by wearing your COMPLETE UNIFORM, always remembering that by wearing it inside and outside the school you are representing the school, and your behavior should be a credit to both yourself and the school community. STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE IN COMPLETE UNIFORM AT ALL TIMES. IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE, A NOTE OF EXPLANATION FROM THE PARENTS TO THE PRINCIPAL IS REQUIRED. PARENTS ARE EXPECTED TO SEND THEIR CHILDREN TO SCHOOL EVERY DAY WITH THE COMPLETE UNIFORM FOR THE SEASON. PARENTS WILL BE NOTIFIED ON A REGULAR BASIS BY THE TEACHER OR PRINCIPAL IF THEIR CHILD IS NOT IN THE COMPLETE UNIFORM. Uniforms must be purchased from the following vendors: DENNIS/NEIL ROBERTS OUTLET STORE: 330 Westport Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 750-8731, (800) 854-6951 Fax: (203) 750-8733 www.dennisuniform.com LANDS’ END: www.landsend.com The uniform of the season is required for attendance at Mass & designated events. Only approved sweatshirts may be worn to Mass and designated events. 8TH GRADERS HAVE A SPECIAL “Our Lady of Fatima Class of ____ “SWEATSHIRT WHICH THEY MAY WEAR ON ANY SCHOOL DAY. A uniform shirt and tie (boys only) must be worn under these sweatshirts. WINTER: COMPLETE UNIFORM COMPLETE WINTER UNIFORM BOYS (GRADES K-8) FOR WINTER/MASS/SPECIAL EVENTS: 15 Navy blue uniform pants Short or long sleeve light blue button-down broadcloth shirt –TUCKED IN. School tie with Fatima plaid (Belair plaid) or navy with Fatima Falcon Navy blue or black belt with a buckle. Navy or black socks ONLY. Shoes: Navy blue or black DRESS or Merrell-like shoes WITH A HARD SOLE. NO MOCASSINS, DECK SHOES OR DOCKSIDERS! Boys may also wear the navy blue fleece jacket, the navy blue fleece vest, or the navy blue V-neck sweater with the approved school logo. Uniform shirt and tie must be worn under the fleece jacket or sweater. Navy blue Fatima Crew Neck Sweatshirt with school logo Navy blue FATIMA “Falcons” Hooded Sweatshirt with approved school logo. Uniform shirt and tie must be worn under any sweatshirt. COMPLETE WINTER UNIFORM GIRLS (Grades K-4th) FOR WINTER/MASS/SPECIAL EVENTS: Uniform jumper (Belair plaid) (KNEE LENGTH) Light blue long or short sleeve blouse (with Peter Pan collar) Navy blue knee socks or tights – NO LEGGINGS. Girls may also wear the navy blue cardigan sweater or the navy blue fleece jacket with the approved school logo over their jumper and blouse. Shoes: Navy Blue or Black DRESS, STRAP or FLAT shoes WITH A HARD SOLE – NO MOCCASINS, DECK SHOES, SLIPPERS, BOOTS, FLIP-FLOPS AND/OR CLOGS! December 1st to February 28th: Girls may wear the following: navy pants with the light blue long or short sleeve blouse. NO LEGGINGS. Navy blue Fatima Crew Neck Sweatshirt with school logo Navy blue FATIMA “Falcons” Hooded Sweatshirt with approved school logo. Uniform shirt must be worn under any sweatshirt. COMPLETE WINTER UNIFORM GIRLS (GRADES 5th-8th) FOR WINTER/MASS/SPECIAL EVENTS: Uniform skirt (Belair plaid) (KNEE LENGTH) Navy knee socks or navy tights – NO LEGGINGS. Light blue button-down long or short sleeve broadcloth blouse – TUCKED IN. Girls MUST also wear the OLF navy blue fleece vest, or the navy blue fleece jacket, or the navy blue V-neck sweater every day. Uniform shirts must be worn under the vest, jacket or sweater. December 1st to February 28th: Girls may wear navy blue uniform pants with the light blue long or short sleeve blouse. NO LEGGINGS. Shoes: Navy blue or black DRESS, STRAP or FLAT shoes WITH A HARD SOLE - NO MOCCASINS, DECK SHOES, SLIPPERS, BOOTS, FLIP-FLOPS AND/OR CLOGS! Navy blue Fatima Crew Neck Sweatshirt with school logo Navy blue FATIMA “Falcons” Hooded Sweatshirt with approved school logo. Uniform shirt must be worn under any sweatshirt. COMPLETE WINTER GYM UNIFORM GRADES K TO 8 16 Navy jersey knit pants OR Navy sweatpants both with approved school logo (Navy blue mini mesh nylon shorts (knee-length) with approved school logo ONLY under and during gym class). Navy long or short sleeve cotton t-shirt with approved school logo. NO FATIMA ATHLETICS team shirts, jerseys and/or shorts may be worn during the school day or on gym days. Exceptions must be requested and approved in advance by the Principal. FALL/SPRING: COMPLETE UNIFORM Fall/Spring Uniforms are to be worn from the first day of school until Columbus Day, and from the first school day after Easter Sunday until the last day of school. COMPLETE FALL/SPRING UNIFORM BOYS (GRADES K-8) & MASS Shorts: All Grades K-8: Navy Blue uniform shorts. No outer flaps, snaps, or cargo pockets. Shirts: All Grades K-8: Light Blue, short sleeve, golf/polo shirt with school logo. Outerwear: Navy Blue hooded Falcons sweatshirt, Navy Blue long-sleeve fleece jacket with school logo, navy blue crew neck sweatshirt with school logo. Shoes: All Grades K-8: SNEAKERS ONLY. Sneakers must be supportive athletic shoes – NO COLOR RESTRICTIONS! Sneakers may not light up or have wheels in the soles. Socks: All Grades K-8: WHITE ONLY: athletic, quarter-crew or low-cut sock. COMPLETE FALL/SPRING UNIFORM GIRLS (GRADES K-8) & MASS Shorts/Skorts/Skooters: All Grades K-8: Navy Blue Uniform shorts, skorts and skooters. No outer flaps, snaps, or cargo pockets. A Skooter is navy blue skirt with shorts sewn into it (very comfortable!). Shirts: All Grades K-8: Light Blue, short sleeve, golf/polo shirt with approved school logo. Outerwear: Navy Blue hooded Falcons sweatshirt, Navy Blue long-sleeve fleece jacket with approved school logo, navy blue crew neck sweatshirt with approved school logo. Shoes: All Grades K-8: SNEAKERS ONLY. Sneakers must be supportive athletic shoes – no color restrictions. Sneakers may not light up or have wheels in the soles. Socks: All Grades K-8: WHITE ONLY: athletic, quarter-crew or low-cut sock. COMPLETE FALL/SPRING GYM UNIFORM BOYS (GRADES K-8) Navy Blue t-shirt with approved school logo Navy Blue gym shorts (knee-length)with approved school logo Navy Blue sweat pants with approved school logo (optional) Navy Blue hooded Falcons sweatshirt, Navy Blue long-sleeve fleece jacket with approved school logo, navy blue crew neck sweatshirt with school logo. Socks All Grades K-8: WHITE ONLY: athletic, quarter-crew or low-cut sock. Shoes All Grades K-8: SNEAKERS ONLY: Sneakers must be supportive athletic shoes – no color restrictions. Sneakers may not light up or have wheels in the soles. ADDITIONAL GROOMING RULES All students are expected to be well-groomed during the school day. Uniforms are to be clean, neat and free of tears and holes. Dress uniform shirts must be tucked-in at all times even under a sweater, jacket, or vest. 17 Girls and boys must wear hair styles that are moderate and sensible and adhere to the school guidelines. No student’s hair may be artificially colored. Boys’ hair must not touch their shirt collars, extend beyond the midpoint of their ears, or have defined lines (e.g. long on top and shaved on the sides). Makeup is not permitted. Girls who have pierced ears are allowed to wear one earring per ear, studs and l/2” hoops only – no dangling earrings. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings at all during school time. Tattoos or body piercings are not permitted. THE PRINCIPAL AND TEACHERS RESERVE THE RIGHT TO DECIDE F A STUDENT’S GROOMING IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMPLETE UNIFORM POLICY. PLEASE BE SURE ALL CLOTHING IS MARKED WITH STUDENT’S NAME. DRESS-DOWN DAYS POSITIVELY NO: T-shirts with questionable writing or sayings, tank tops or spaghetti straps, sandals or clogs, hats (unless it’s a special dress-down day). Socks must be worn at all times. Shirts must be long enough to be tucked in. Midriff cannot show and shorts should come at least to the top of the knee to be considered acceptable. Shorts may not have anything written across the backside. CONDUCT A disciplined environment creates a better learning situation. Both teachers and parents share in the creation of this environment. The teacher handles most discipline problems in school. More serious offenses are referred to the principal. This includes repeated failure to comply with school regulations that disrupt the educational process or damage the well-being of the school or those associated with it. Any action that violates Christian Catholic teaching is considered a serious offense. Students are expected to abide by the Code of Conduct of Our Lady of Fatima School. Should infractions or detentions occur, students will be held accountable for violations, and disciplinary measures will be taken. The Diocese of Bridgeport has established a Student Code of Conduct (Practices/Procedures) which outlines specific behavioral expectations and consequences to be used as a guideline for each individual school’s own discipline policy. Additionally, the following guidelines may apply to all: RESPECT FOR TEACHERS Parents are held to the same standard as students with regard to respect for teachers. Enrollment of the child in the school implies a partnership between the school and the parents/child. If the partnership breaks down, parents may be required to withdraw the child from school. BULLYING 18 Our Lady of Fatima School offers all students a positive, safe learning environment in which everyone behaves responsibly and respectfully toward others. All children are entitled to learn in a physical and emotionally safe environment that is free from threat, harassment and any type of bullying behavior. In accordance with this philosophy, BULLYING OF A STUDENT BY ANOTHER STUDENT IS PROHIBITED! “BULLYING” is defined as any overt acts by a student or groups of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, humiliate, or intimidate the other student while on school grounds, on the school bus, or at a school sponsored activity. Examples of bullying include, but are not limited to: physical violence verbal taunts harassment name-calling put downs threats intimidation exclusion from peer groups within the school Students who engage in any act of bullying, while at school, on the school bus, at any school function, or in connection to or with any school sponsored activity or event are subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including suspensions, expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement officials. GENERAL RULES OF BEHAVIOR FOR ALL STUDENTS Every student attending Our Lady of Fatima School is expected to: Accept leadership and authority of the principal, teachers, and other staff members. Cooperate honestly and courteously with teachers and other students. Be in full uniform at all times and adhere to grooming regulations. Refrain from any activity that may, in any way, injure another student. Use only acceptable language (i.e., no vulgarity). Remain on school property until dismissed by a teacher or by the principal. Refrain from eating or drinking in bus lines or in the hallway. Walk at all times, especially in the hallways and classrooms. Complete all homework assignments on time. Promptly return any tests or assignments requiring a parent’s signature. Pay the school for value of property damaged, destroyed or lost by the student. Refrain from bringing any dangerous objects to school. Dangerous objects include any object that could be used as a weapon, including knives of any kind and any incendiaries including matches. Refrain from bringing radios, tape/CD players, cameras, electronic games, or other valuable possessions to school except with special permission from a teacher and a parent. The school will not assume any responsibility for such items. Refrain from bringing items to school to sell or to exchange with any other students at school. Obey all rules pertaining to bus transportation. 19 Refrain from leaving the school under any circumstances without first being signed out through the school office by a parent/guardian. All students are expected to be polite and well-mannered in all their relationships with peers, teachers, school volunteers and all adults. Disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated either in or outside the classroom. The use or distribution of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances is strictly forbidden. The penalty for doing so is a minimum three-day in or out of school suspension, possible exclusion from all school extra-curricular activities, or expulsion from the school. The Principal and his/her designee may search student desks, lockers, and personal belongings, including, but not limited to, handbags, briefcases, purses, backpacks, clothing, and other items in the students’ possession. Inappropriate behavior may be handled in a variety of ways at the discretion of the principal. Based on the misdeed, the student may: Be denied recess time. Be assigned a written assignment which may require a parent’s signature or an “Accountability & Responsibility” response which requires a parent’s signature. Be removed from class for a specified period of time. Be required to remain after school to complete work. (Parent will be notified.) Receive a detention. Receive an in-school suspension. Be suspended from school. Be asked not to return RECESS AND PLAYGROUND BEHAVIOR Students are to line up in an orderly manner in two quiet lines when going to recess. Students are to be dressed appropriately for outdoor recess unless otherwise specified in writing by a parent. Games involving physical contact are forbidden. Students are not permitted on the ice or snow, nor are they permitted to play with it. Playground cliques that have a negative effect on other students or are exclusive of other children on the playground are forbidden. Students are not to have cell phones (refer to Cell Phone Policy), radios, MP3 players, CD players, Game Boys, or other hand-held video games, trading cards, trading games, sharp objects, skateboards, roller blades, metal or wooden bats, or hard balls in school or at recess. Bullying or verbal and/or physical harassment of any kind is forbidden and will be cause for an immediate referral to the Principal, which could result in suspension, depending on the severity of the incident. STUDENT CELL PHONES 20 Students are allowed to bring a cell phone or electronic device to school, but it must be turned off and in a backpack from 8:00 a.m. - 2:50 p.m. If these guidelines are not followed, and a cell phone or electronic device is confiscated, it will be given to the principal. Parents will be notified, and it is the responsibility of the parent to come to the school and pick up the confiscated item. The school is not responsible for the loss and/or damage of these devices on school property or at school events. This includes school buses. The possession of and/ or use of laser pens is not permitted in our school. Laser pens will be confiscated and returned to the parent. CHEATING Cheating is giving or receiving unauthorized help on a test, quiz, or assignment that includes the following: Communicating in any way with another student during a test or quiz. Sharing information about a test or a quiz with another student who has not yet taken the test or quiz. Having in one’s possession materials or information not approved in advance by the teacher which would indicate intent to give or receive help. Using a computer, cell phone, or any form of technology to gain access to information to which the student has no right. Copying homework. PLAGIARISM AND FORGERY Plagiarism is copying another’s work and claiming it as one’s own. Forgery is signing another’s name on a test or document. Cheating, plagiarism, forgery, or copying of another student’s homework is strictly forbidden. Students who forge, plagiarize, or cheat on a quiz, test, or exam will receive an automatic zero, with no opportunity to retest, re-quiz, or repeat the exam for a grade. First Offense: The student will receive a zero and a detention. Parent must sign the test or document. Second Offense: The student will receive a zero and two detentions. The student will meet with the Principal and will be suspended from all extra-curricular activities for a period of two (2) weeks. Parents must sign the document. Third Offense: The student and parents will meet with the Principal and will be subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the Principal. TECHNOLOGY Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the school's computer network just as they are in a classroom or on a school playground. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users with 21 school standards and the specific rules set forth below. The use of the network is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. WHAT ARE THE RULES? General school rules for behavior and interaction with others apply. The network is provided for students as a learning tool and to conduct research. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required. Access is a privilege - not a right. Access entails responsibility. Individual users of the network are responsible for their behavior and communications over the network. Students will comply with the school standards and will honor the agreement that they have signed. If by accident, a student encounters materials, which violate school standards, they should notify an adult immediately. The following are not permitted: Damaging the computers or the network, including changing and/or deleting computer settings and using improper startup and shutdown procedures Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures Using obscene language Using the computer to harm other people or their work Violating copyright laws Using another's identity or password Trespassing in another's folder's or files Intentionally wasting resources, including paper, ink and Computer Lab class time Downloading anything without specific permission from the Technology Coordinator Using the network for purposes other than school or church related activities Violations of these rules may result in the loss of computer privileges as well as other disciplinary action. HALLWAY BEHAVIOR Students are to line up orderly in two quiet lines to the right of the hallway, on the blue and white lines, when walking in the hallway. There should be no conversation, laughing, loud noises, or pushing. Students must be quiet. Students should not be in the hallway without a pass or faculty permission. BATHROOM BEHAVIOR Students are to use the bathrooms in an appropriate manner and with a teacher’s permission. Any damage is considered both vandalism and a serious infraction, and it could warrant suspension and monetary consequences. Students should sign out or carry a lavatory pass when using the bathroom facilities in accordance with their homeroom teacher’s policy. SMOKING & ALCOHOL SMOKING: All schools in the Diocese are smoke free. ALCOHOL: Alcohol is NOT permitted at school events where students are present. 22 DETENTION SYSTEM A “Notice of Student Detention” form may be given by a teacher or by the principal to any student in grades 3-8 for any infraction of rules and school policies. Detentions will be held after school from 3:00-3:45 PM or during the lunch/recess from 12:00-12:30 PM. Thursday is the suggested day but it's up to the discretion of the teacher or principal issuing the detention. When a detention is given, the student is required to bring the detention notice home to be signed by a parent. It is then returned to the classroom teacher and filed in the Office the following day. In some cases, communication with parent may be by phone call or e-mail. Failure to serve a detention at the appointed time will result in additional detentions being issued and continued infractions will require the attention of the principal. The issuing of five detentions within one marking period will result in an in-school suspension. SUSPENSION Any in-school or out-of-school suspension automatically excludes a student from participation in extra-curricular activities for a period of 6 weeks. IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION A student serving an in-school suspension will be separated from his/her class. During the suspension period, the student will be under the supervision of the principal and will complete all required school assignments. OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION Out-of-school suspension means that a student is excluded from classes for a specific period of time. During this time, the student is expected to be at home and/or under the supervision of his/her parents. The student is given school assignments that must be completed by his/her return to school. PERMANENT DISMISSAL FROM OUR LADY OF FATIMA SCHOOL When the welfare of any student is threatened by another student with harmful conduct such as threatening, fighting, cheating, stealing, smoking, drinking, and/or the use of drugs, such a student is subject to expulsion at the discretion of the principal. The principal has the right to suspend those pupils whose presence in the school has become a serious impediment to the school. When serious disciplinary action in the form of suspension from school is deemed necessary, the following guidelines apply: Parent/Guardian will be notified by the principal immediately. No pupil will be sent home from the school premises until the parent or legal guardian has been contacted. The principal will notify the parent/guardian who is responsible for making transportation arrangements. A conference will be arranged involving the parent/guardian, all personnel involved, and the principal. This meeting will also serve to clarify the circumstances concerning the suspension for all concerned parties. Also, the terms of the suspension will be made clear. 23 The period of suspension shall never exceed five (5) school days. Suspended pupils are responsible for making up all tests and assignments missed during the period of suspension. Other consequences, depending on the situation, could include student counseling, financial restitution, and removal from school activities and service to the school. Expulsion of a student from school will follow a period of suspension unless the situation calls for immediate action. Expulsion proceedings will be conducted in conjunction with the Office for Education in accordance with Diocesan Policy #4018. Appeal Process Parents may appeal the decision of a Principal regarding the dismissal of their son or daughter. This appeal is made to the Superintendent. After hearing the appeal, the Superintendent shall inform the Principal of his/her decision. Diocesan Policy 3.313 HARRASSMENT Diocesan Policy 3.318 Harassment (sexual, verbal, physical, visual, etc.) is forbidden by federal and state law and will not be tolerated at Our Lady of Fatima School. Employees and students are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to fellow employees, students and the public. Should harassment be alleged, it will be thoroughly investigated, so that there shall be no retaliation against the victim of the harassment, and the problem/concern will be appropriately addressed. If a student believes that he/she is being or has been subject to behavior that could constitute harassment, that student should immediately notify a teacher and/or the principal. If after a thorough investigation, there is reasonable cause to believe that harassment has occurred, reasonable actions will take place to see the harassment ceases and will not re-occur. Disciplinary action, depending on the offense, may include, but is not limited to: Verbal reprimand Parent/student conference Detention Removal from school activities In-school suspension Out-of-school suspension from school Expulsion from school Police notification ACADEMIC POLICIES ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS AND STANDARDS Academic expectations are defined in terms of the level of knowledge, abilities and skills students should possess. Expectations also refer to the time, hard work, behavior, self-discipline, and motivation that are essential for high student achievement. Teachers and administrators express these expectations to students in several different ways: 24 By grades, which reflect the degree to which students demonstrate their mastery of subject matter. Through graduation requirements By the presence or absence of rigorous tests requiring students to demonstrate their mastery of content and skill before receiving a diploma. By high school admission’s requirements, which reinforce elementary school standards. By the difficulty of the subject matter students confront in their texts and assigned readings. Through student and teacher handbooks that state religious, academic, social, and behavioral expectations. By the quality and content of all written and oral communications. By close monitoring of student progress within a carefully planned and articulated program. By fostering a positive climate of high expectations for all students. In summary, the school expects the following academic standards: Be Prepared, Be Respectful & Be Able to do your best. Homework Planner: The use of a “Homework Planner” is mandatory in Grades 3-8. This planner is provided by the school and involves the use of a weekly assignment calendar for daily homework and long term assignments as a means of helping students to become better organized and accountable. On all levels, homework is an extension of classroom study and an important phase of the school curriculum. It generally involves completing classroom assignments or reinforcing classroom learning. In addition, students may be required to work on projects, book reports, and special assignments. Students are expected to use some free time at home to study math facts, parts of speech, spelling words, and to pursue independent reading. Twenty minutes of independent reading is required each night. The amount of time a student is expected to spend daily on homework varies from level to level: Primary Grades (1, 2, 3): Intermediate (4, 5): Upper Grades (6, 7, 8): approximately 30 minutes daily approximately 60 minutes daily 90 minutes daily Parents are asked to establish certain hours of the afternoon or evening when assignments can be completed without the distraction of television, stereos, or phone calls. The “homework period” should be used for completing written assignments, studying for upcoming tests, reviewing, reading, etc. This time should be consistent even if students “finish” sooner. When they are aware that they must spend this time on schoolwork each night, they do not rush to complete assignments and consequently learn better study habits. These general homework guidelines are the basis of the homework policies issued by each classroom teacher at the beginning of the school year. HOMEWORK REQUEST PROCEDURE 25 All parents must call the Main Office between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. to notify the school of their child’s absence and/or request homework. If homework is not requested, absent students will make up assignments based on their teacher’s discretion when they return to school. Parent Homework Pick Up: Parents who requested homework are required to pick up assignments and books outside the Main Office after 3:00 p.m. Students/parents are not permitted to re-enter the school after dismissal for forgotten books, clothing, or belongings. Classrooms are locked at the end of the school day. Sibling and Classmate Homework Pick Up: Parents must notify the Homeroom Teacher or the School Office in the morning, if they will be requesting books and homework assignments for an absent student. Requests for homework assignments are left to the teacher’s discretion. Parents must coordinate homework assignments with classroom/homeroom teachers if their children are absent for an extended time so that the child does not miss an extensive amount of schoolwork. Long-term absences can have profound effects on instruction, student’s performance, and Report Card assessment. REPORT CARDS FOR KINDERGARTEN – 8th GRADE Report cards are distributed four times a year for Grades K-8 (November, January, April, June). Parent-teacher conferences are required for all full day students in November. Report cards focus on important areas reflecting our philosophy of education; academic achievement, attitudes and conduct, effort and study habits. Interim Progress Reports are issued by teachers between report card distributions whenever necessary. Within parameters set by the school, teachers set grading policies within their own classrooms. Parents are made aware of these policies at the beginning of the school year at the September Open House. GRADING SYSTEM KINDERGARTEN: M P I N Meeting Success Progress Shown Improvement Needed Not Yet Expected GRADES 1-8: A AB+ B 94-100 90-93 87-89 84-86 Outstanding Above Average 26 BC+ C CD F 80-83 77-79 74-76 70-73 60-69 65 and below Average Below Average, but Passing Failure Study Skills Conduct/Effort and Social Development (Grades 1-5) and Conduct/Effort for Grades 6-8 1 Excellent 2 Good 3 Improvement Needed 4 Unsatisfactory The following grade codes are used in grades K-3 for Physical Education, Art, Music and Technology only S Satisfactory N Needs Improvement U Unsatisfactory FOREIGN LANGUAGE GRADING: Letter grades will be used for Grades 6, 7 and 8 and will affect achieving Honors. ART, MUSIC, COMPUTER SKILLS, AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRADING: GRADES 1-3: GRADES 4-5: S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Satisfactory N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Needs Improvement U. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unsatisfactory Letter grades will be used. GRADES 6-8: Letter grades will be used and affect achieving Honors. **THE FOLLOWING PERTAINS ONLY TO 6 -8 STUDENTS: Students in grade 6th through 8th must take a Mid-term Exam after the completion of the second quarter and a Final Exam after the completion of the fourth quarter. The purpose of these examinations is as follows: prepare students for high school improve study skills cultivate organizational skills develop the skill of retaining material knowledge of subject matter 27 Midterm exam grades are averaged in with the first and second marking period grades to determine the midyear grade. THE EXAM GRADE ALONE WILL NOT AFFECT HONOR ROLL STATUS OF A STUDENT. Final exam grades are averaged in with the third and fourth marking period grades to determine the final grade. THE EXAM GRADE ALONE WILL NOT AFFECT HONOR ROLL STATUS OF A STUDENT. Midterm Exams and Final Exams will be given in all major subjects: Religion, Mathematics, English, Social Studies, Science and Literature. HONOR ROLL GRADES 6 - 8 HIGH HONORS: No grade lower than an A- in all subjects (1) or (2) in Conduct and Effort HONORS: No grade lower than a B- in all subjects (1) or (2) in Conduct and Effort. NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY Each year the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) inducts students into membership from grades 7 and 8. As a participating chapter in this worthwhile society, Our Lady of Fatima, abiding by the regulations set forth by the NJHS, inducts students to represent our school and our chapter. Selection for the NJHS honor society is a prestigious honor. It is the aim of the school to have as many students meet the criteria for selection, while maintaining the high standards that admission to this group stands for. The following eligibility criteria will be used to select students for the NJHS. Students must meet criteria in academic excellence, character, leadership and service to qualify. 1. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Cumulative average greater than a B+ (86.5). All courses (including Art, Music and Physical Education) are factored into the average. Art, Music and Physical Ed will be factored at 20% value (due to sessions meeting 1/5 as many times are core classes.) Conduct: Nothing lower than 1’s and 2’s. Repeated unacceptable conduct (3’s or 4’s) may prohibit one from membership consideration. Averages for 7th grade candidates will be determined using grades earned during the last two marking periods of 6th grade and the first two marking periods of 7th grade. Averages for 8th grade candidates will be determined using grades earned during the entire 7th grade academic year as well as the first two marking periods of 8th grade. Mid-term and Final Exam grades will be factored into the average ONLY if they raise the overall average. These will be factored at 20% of the value of a core class marking period grade. 28 2. LEADERSHIP SKILLS Showing spirit, confidence and generosity in and out of school, and taking initiative in leadership positions in school, class sports, community, etc. 3. CITIZENSHIP/COMMUNITY SERVICE Leadership and Citizenship accomplishments within the school and community are important as well. 4. FOLLOWING SCHOOL RULES, EXHIBITING ATTRIBUTES, VOLUNTEERING AND COMMUNITY SERVICE COMBINE TO BUILD CHARACTER. The Faculty Selection Committee will choose final awardees from the nominated pool of students based upon the Our Lady of Fatima School NJHS Charter. STANDARDIZED TESTING The official testing program for the Diocese of Bridgeport is the Terra Nova, In View, the Assessment of Catechesis Religious Education also known as ACRE (NCEA) and Diocesan benchmark assessments. Pre-K4 Kindergarten Grade One Grade Two Grade Three Grade Four Grade Five Grade Six Grade Seven Grade Eight Brigance K Brigance 1 DRA DRA Terra Nova/DRA Terra Nova/DRA Terra Nova/In View/ACRE Terra Nova Terra Nova/In View ACRE Promotion/Retention All homeroom teachers are required to sign each student’s final report card to certifying that the pupil was PROMOTED to the next grade, ADVANCED to the next grade or RETAINED in the grade. PROMOTED: The pupil has completed the grade’s work and has attained a minimum of a “D” average in all major subject areas. Major subjects: Religion, Social Studies, Math, Science, English, Reading/Literature. ADVANCED: The pupil has failed to meet the minimum level of achievement of grade level. After consideration of all factors (social, emotional, physical, academic, age) and in consultation with the principal and education professionals, a decision will be reached and parents will be notified. RETAINED: The pupil has failed on the final average, two or more major subjects. Major subjects: Religion, Social Studies, Math, Science, English, Reading/Literature. 29 If consideration is being given for a pupil to either be advanced or retained, the parents shall be notified in writing NO LATER than the end of the third marking period. Prior to this time frame, teachers should have been in frequent contact with parents and administrators to discuss the difficulties the students might be experiencing. Written notification of the determination to advance or retain a pupil shall be sent to the parents by the administrator no later than May 1st of the school year. Graduation Connecticut law requires all schools to be in session for at least 180 days, and graduation ceremonies may not be held until that requirement has been met. Elementary schools set their 8th grade graduation date at the beginning of the school year as part of the school calendar approved by the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Bridgeport. Shadowing Students “shadowing” or spending a day at another school will be marked with an excused absence, providing the following has occurred: Prior notification to the principal from the parent Note from parent stating what school the child attended No more than three school visits to be considered as excused absences during a school year Multiple visits to a single school within one school year will be counted as unexcused absences. Policy on Modifications in Academic Programs and Grading Modified programs with modified grading are available for students who have disabilities that result in qualification for alternative educations plans. For more details see Diocesan Policy 3.207 Referral and Testing Schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport will comply with the Connecticut State Guidelines when referring students for psycho-educational evaluation and/or counseling. Diocesan Policy 3.208 HEALTH POLICIES The School Nurse and the Administration have herein addressed the major health concerns parents face when sending their children to Our Lady of Fatima School. NURSE The office of the school nurse is located next to the school office. The nurse is responsible for the maintenance of health records, routine health checks, parental contact concerning health problems, care of minor injuries, and assistance in health education and vision. PLEASE BE SURE TO CONTACT THE NURSE, IF YOUR CHILD HAS ANY UNUSUAL HEALTH PROBLEMS. The nurse is available in the Nurse’s Office on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 AM -3:00 PM, AND, Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Notify the school by telephone, if your child will be absent. This will save a call by the School Nurse. Please leave your name, the child’s name, your child’s teacher’s name and the reason for absence. Notify the office if your child will be home for a prolonged period of time. Any prolonged illness such as pneumonia or surgery should be reported to the nurse for follow-up. 30 In case of illness or injury, a child will be cared for temporarily by the school nurse or a member of the staff. An adult must be available to take a child home in the event of illness or accident. School personnel will render first aid treatment only. If emergency medical treatment is necessary, the parents will be contacted. If parents are not available, the child will be taken by ambulance to Norwalk Hospital and parents will be kept informed until they arrive at the emergency room. AN EMERGENCY FORM TELLING WHERE PARENTS CAN BE REACHED AND THE NAME AND PHONE NUMBER OF THE STUDENT’S FAMILY DOCTOR MUST BE ON FILE AT THE SCHOOL. IF AN EMERGENCY NUMBER SHOULD CHANGE, BE SURE TO CONTACT THE SCHOOL OFFICE WITH THE NEW INFORMATION. Please advise the nurse of all allergies, especially food and bee-sting allergies. Advise the nurse of any conditions that mandate the use of inhalers or EpiPens. Have your child report directly to the nurse upon entry to the school following: fractures, casts, splints, crutches, sutures or any incapacitating injury. Students must have a note from a parent for a short term excuse not to participate in gym or recess. A student absent beyond three days will require a doctor’s note. Unless the student is physically unable to participate in gym and/or recess, he/she will be expected to go with his/her class to sit on the sidelines. If your child has a temperature of 100 degrees or above, vomits, has diarrhea, head lice (initial diagnosis) or any other contagious ailment, the child will be sent home. Please Note: If a child is sent home sick or is absent all day, the student may not participate in any after school activity. PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME IF THEY HAVE: Chicken Pox: 7 days from the first lesion or longer until all pox are scabbed over. “Pink Eye” or “Conjunctivitis”: A full 24 hours of antibiotic treatment must be finished before the child returns to school. Head Lice: If you discover head lice or eggs (nits), notify your school nurse. There are several over-the-counter products available for treatment. Some are more effective than others. Your school nurse will be able to give you guidance about child and home treatment. The nurse will also be able to check your child’s classmates. Upon returning to school, the child must be examined by the school nurse before returning to class. Strep Throat: A full 24 hours of antibiotic treatment must be finished before child returns to school. General Illnesses and Flu: Please be considerate, as a coughing, hacking child with a constantly running nose is a health risk to others and miserable in school. Allow the child to convalesce at home and return to school only when his/her symptoms have diminished. CHILDREN NEED TO STAY HOME FOR 24 HOURS AFTER: The start of an antibiotic medication (except in the case of an ear infection when how the child is feeling determines time home). Diarrhea and vomiting (24 hours after last occurrence). Fever free (24 hours after fever was last registered). HEALTH PROGRAM 31 The major purpose of the school health program is to maintain, improve and promote the good health of the student. Every effort is made to supervise the physical, mental, emotional and social aspects of school life. Health Services A. Testing Program a. Physical examinations are required by law for students to enter school K and grade 7. These examinations are made by the student’s family physician. b. Vision screening tests are administered to the students annually for students K-6th. c. Hearing screening tests are administered to all students in grades K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8, as well as students who showed a hearing loss in previous screenings. d. A postural screening for the detection of scoliosis for students in grades 5-7th is done annually. B. Medication a. Children are not allowed to carry medications of any kind in school. If a child is to take a medication for any length of time, a doctor’s note is required by state law, stating: Time Dosage Name of medication Side effects, if any. A form may be obtained from the school nurse: b. A school nurse, or in her absence, the principal or teacher, may administer medical preparations to a student with the written authorization of the parent or guardian. This is the state law. c. Parents are encouraged to administer the medication by coming to the school at the required time. Medication must be brought to the office in the prescription container. First Aid First aid is administered by the designated school employees or by the school nurse if present. The nurse is notified of each case of first aid, which might require further attention. In Case of Injury or Serious Accident If a child’s condition requires immediate medical attention, the family is notified and asked to call their doctor. It is important to keep emergency information up to date. Please notify the school immediately of any changes. If a life- threatening situation should develop regarding a student, the parents/guardians will be notified to meet the child and nurse, or the designated representative of the school at the closest emergency facility. Transportation will be by ambulance or police. IMPORTANT: Please note that while the school is taking what it considers to be reasonable measures to guard against an allergic reaction, the school cannot and will not be responsible for assuring that no contact with an allergy-related product will occur. 32 ALLERGIES Our Lady of Fatima School works with the parents/guardians and students who have allergies in order to minimize or avoid, as much as possible, the chances of an allergic reaction with a threat to the students’ well-being. This is not to say that the school accepts responsibility for insuring that a student will not come in contact with a product he/she may be allergic to. That is ultimately the responsibility of the individual student and his/her parents/guardians. As part of our effort to maintain a safe environment for children, we will limit the amount of food based celebrations and activities, especially those that occur in a classroom. Our Lady of Fatima is a Nut-Aware School. We are attempting to maintain that our classrooms and school are free of peanuts and tree nuts to the best of our ability. Foods containing nut products are not allowed in the school building. If a student comes to school with a peanut or tree nut product, the student will be sent to the nurse and asked not to consume that food product and be given another nut free food. The nurse will inform the principal and the principal may contact the parent. Signage is posted throughout the school indicating that we try to maintain a peanut and nut – aware environment. Food-celebrations and activities must adhere to the guidelines listed below. If your child has food allergies, you are asked to provide a safe treat to be kept in the classroom for times when the ingredients in celebration snacks are questionable or unknown to the teacher. Student Birthdays Student birthdays will be recognized and celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima School. Student birthdays will be read during morning announcements. Children will be called to the Principal’s Office after morning announcements. Children will receive a small gift from the school for their birthday. Students with birthdays in June, July and August will be recognized at their half birthday. Classroom birthday celebrations are determined by the classroom teacher. Food Fundraisers during the school day The sale of food items during the school day will be strictly limited. All food sales which occur during the school day must be approved by the principal. An ingredient list must be available for review before the sale occurs. INSURANCE As stipulated in the Diocesan General Liability Policy, students are NOT covered for medical expenses resulting from any injury received at school or in their participating in school sponsored events away from the school premises. Any medical bills or injury claim should be referred to the major medical coverage in place for your child. SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARD 33 Our Lady of Fatima School Advisory Board represents Our Lady of Fatima School under the authority of the Office for Education of the Diocese of Bridgeport. The board provides the leadership to foster the environment which provides underlying Catholic Gospel values, long-term strategic planning and financial stability. The role of the School Advisory Board (SAB) complements the school’s mission which is to nurture and foster spiritual, moral, intellectual, physical, and social growth of the student through its religious and academic curriculum and extracurricular programs. The SAB meets each month during the school year. Please refer to the school website for member list and meeting dates. HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION The Home School Association (H.S.A.) depends on the active participation of all its members to accomplish its goals. All parents must join the H.S.A. upon registering their children and pay the required fee of $700.00. In addition, parents are required to volunteer their skills, time, or talent to enrich our student’s Catholic School experience. The H.S.A. is committed to contributions enriching the school environment and to assuming the required assessment responsibilities toward capital expenses. The H.S.A. Executive Board meets each month during the school year. Please refer to the school website for member list, meeting and event dates. FUNDRAISING Fundraising is a part of school development. Its purposes include fostering school spirit, creating community and commonality of purpose among families, as well as raising money to support and enhance the school community. Successful fundraising is critical to the maintaining of reasonable tuition levels. In this spirit, all families of Our Lady of Fatima students are asked to participate to the fullest extent possible in all fundraising and development activities sponsored by Our Lady of Fatima Church and School. POLICY REGARDING RAISING FUNDS FOR CHARITABLE CAUSES – Approved 8/22/2014 It is wonderful to see the heartfelt and enthusiastic support our school communities give to causes which support medical research as well as a variety of other human needs. School administrators and teachers have to be attentive to the fact that some of the organizations that seek support may hold values or support other causes contrary to our Catholic faith. For example, not all forms of medical are morally sound. Administrators are expected to thoroughly research any organization that is proposed as a recipient of funds raised by a school or any organization affiliated with the school. In particular, the Office of the Superintendent would like to encourage Catholic schools which plan to participate in the “ice bucket challenge” to send their donations to the John Paul II Medical Research Institute (http://jp2mri.org/) which, in its ALS research, adheres to Catholic teaching regarding the respect that is due to human embryos. PRINCIPAL’S RIGHT TO AMEND HANDBOOK 34 The Principal reserves the right to waive and/or deviate from any disciplinary regulations for just cause at his or her discretion. The handbook may be amended at any time. POLICY AGREEMENT FORM I have read the Our Lady of Fatima Parent-Student Handbook 2014-2015 and discussed its content with my child/children. I understand the contents of this handbook and agree to abide by the policies of Our Lady of Fatima School and the Diocese of Bridgeport. _________________________________________________________ Parent Signature _______________________________________________________ Student Signature _______________________________________________________ Student Signature _______________________________________________________ Student Signature _______________________________________________________ Student Signature Date Due to the School Office by Friday, October 3, 2014. THANK YOU! 35 36