2015 Student Handbook - Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School

BISHOP GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
“Goodness, Discipline, Knowledge”
2400 Pleasant Valley Boulevard
Altoona, Pennsylvania 16602
(814) 944-4014 FAX (814) 944-8695
ESTABLISHED 1922
www.bishopguilfoyle.org
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015-2016
Revised August 21, 2015
BRIEF HISTORICAL SKETCH OF OUR
HIGH SCHOOL
Catholic secondary education has existed for decades in our community. In
1922 the diocese established a central high school at 1100 Sixth Avenue
under the title of Altoona Catholic High School. As time passed and
education made further demands, the original Pleasant Valley Boulevard
building was opened to house the juniors and seniors. At that time the
school was re-named in honor of Bishop Richard T. Guilfoyle, third Bishop
of the Diocese from 1936 to 1957. Age continued to take its toll on the
original structure at Sixth Avenue, and in 1985, a new wing was added to the
front of the Pleasant Valley building and all four years of high school were
brought together again.
Since our inception, approximately nine thousand students have received
diplomas. Of these, over seventy-five percent have received higher
education. Our alumni have responded generously to a life of religious
service: an impressive number of graduates have been ordained priests or
have become professed sisters or brothers. It is interesting to note that more
than seven hundred marriages have taken place in which both spouses are
alumni of our high school.
Our high school serves two dozen parishes, both here in Altoona and outside
the city. Students of other faith traditions are also part of our school
community. Members of the educational staff possess college degrees and
are state certified.
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School has gained the respect of our
community over the years. Our diploma has helped thousands find quality
colleges, satisfying employment, and happy, fulfilled lives. Athletically, our
teams have competed locally and state-wide, bringing pride to our high
school. Our record testifies to success. With God’s help we will continue to
use our gifts to better ourselves and to serve others.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME…………………………………………..………...7-8
To Our Parents
To Our Students
Authority Structure and Accountability
BELL SCHEDULES…………………………..…………9 - 12
Regular Schedule; Full Day Schedule with AM Mass/Assembly;
Early Dismissal; Early Dismissal – Half Day Schedule with Mass;
Two-Hour Delay; Homeroom Day
Expression Schedule; Block Schedule
SECTION I
VISION/MISSION………………………………………....…13
Mission Statement…………………………………………………………13
Vision Statement…………………………………………………………..13
Belief Statements…………………………………………………………..13
SECTION II
POLICIES………………………………………..…….....15 - 27
Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
After School Supervision Policy……………………………………………15
AIDS Policy………………………………………………………………....15
Assemblies…………………………………………………………………..15
Attendance and Tardiness…………………………………………………...15
Authorization Forms………………………………………………………...18
Automobiles…………………………………………………………………18
Bookstore……………………………………………………………………18
Cell Phones………………………………………………………………….18
Child Protective Service Law……………………………………………… 19
Confidentiality………………………………………………………………19
Corridors…………………………………………………………………….19
Dress Code…………………………………………………………………..19
Drug and Alcohol Policy……………………………………………………20
Drug Testing Policy…………………………………………………………20
Eligibility Policy…………………………………………………………….21
Email………………………………………………………………………...22
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Entertainment/Electronic Devices…………………………………………..23
Field and Class Trips………………………………………………………..23
Fire Drills/Crisis Plan……………………………………………………….23
Fund Raising………………………………………………………………...23
Graduation Participation………………………………………………….….23
Health Records………………………………………………………………24
ID (Student Activity Cards)…………………………………………………24
Internet Policy………………………………………………………………..24
Lockers………………………………………………………………………24
Lost and Found………………………………………………………………24
Marriage Policy……………………………………………………………...25
Materials for Display………………………………………………………...25
Multiple Sport Participation Policy………………………………………….25
Nondiscrimination Policy……………………………………………………25
Physical Education Uniforms………………………………………………..25
Practices……………………………………………………………………...25
Pregnancy Policy…………………………………………………………….26
Rest Rooms…………………………………………………………………..26
School Records………………………………………………………………26
Security Cameras…………………………………………………………….26
Social Media…………………………………………………………………26
Technology Equipment for Students………………………………………...27
Telephones…………………………………………………………………..27
Unauthorized Area Policy…………………………………………………..27
Visitors………………………………………………………………………27
Youth Protection Program…………………………………………………...27
SECTION III
STUDENT SERVICES .……………………………....….27 - 32
Bus Transportation Services………………………………………………. ...27
Cafeteria Services………………………………………………………… …28
Campus Ministry/Spiritual Counseling…………………………………… ...28
Chapel…………………………………………………………………… …..28
Counseling Services…………………………………………………….……29
English as a Second Language Service………………………………………28
Health Services……………………………………………………………….29
Library Services………………………………………………………..……29
Protocol for Student Academic Adjustments………………………………...30
Reading Service………………………………………………………………32
Student Assistance Program………………………………………………….32
Student Information System………………………………………………….32
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SECTION IV
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE/ASSESSMENTS….....32 - 37
Graduation Requirements……………………………………………..………33
Grading Policy………………………………………………………….……..33
Report Cards………………………………………………………………….35
Syllabus……………………………………………………………………….35
Homework…………………………………………………………………….35
Dual Enrollment Policy……………………………………………………….35
Early to College Program……………………………………………………..36
Failures………………………………………………………………………..36
Honor Roll…………………………………………………………………….37
Class Rank…………………………………………………………………….37
Parent-Teacher Conferences…………………………………………………..37
Religion Program……………………………………………………………...37
School Testing Program……………………………………………………….37
Virtual School Days…………………………………………………………...38
SECTION V
RESPONSIBILITY/ACCOUNTABILITY……..……...39 - 50
Philosophy of Discipline……………………………………………………...39
Definition of Offenses………………………………………………………...39
Consequences for Disciplinary Offenses……………………………………..48
SECTION VI
DAILY OPERATING PROCEDURES………………...50 - 53
Traffic Flow – Start and End of Day………………………………………….50
Arrival at School……………………………………………………………....51
Official Start of School………………………………………………………..51
Announcements……………………………………………………………….51
Attendance…………………………………………………………………….51
Homeroom…………………………………………………………………….51
Class Periods…………………………………………………………………..52
Locker Visits…………………………………………………………………..52
Hall Passes………………………………………………………………….....52
Lunch………………………………………………………………………….52
Class Change……………………………………………………………….….52
End of Day…………………………………………………………………….52
Departure from School………………………………………………………...52
After School Supervision……………………………………………………...52
Athletic/Extra-Curricular Activities…………………………………………...53
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SECTION VII
CO-CURRICULAR/EXTRA-CURRICULAR..............53 - 54
Organizations…………………………………………………………………53
Dances and Games……………………………………………………………53
National Honor Society………………………………………………….. ….54
Yearbook…………………………………………………………………... ...54
Academic Requirements for High School Students Who Plan to Participate
in College Athletics…………………………………………………………..54
SECTION VIII
FINANCES ……………………………………..…….….55 - 58
Payment Policy for School Year 2014-2015………………………………...55
Advanced Placement Classes………………………………………………..56
Class Dues…………………………………………………………………...56
Fundraising…………………………………………………………………..56
Graduation Fee………………………………………………………………56
ID Cards……………………………………………………………………..57
Insurance…………………………………………………………………….57
Locks for Lockers………………………………………………………… 57
Parking Permits……………………………………………………………...57
Physical Education…………………………………………………………..57
Report Cards…………………………………………………………………57
Schedule Changes……………………………………………………………57
Shaving Fee………………………………………………………………….57
Technology Fee……………………………………………………………...57
Test Fees …………………………………………………………………….58
Textbooks……………………………………………………………………58
Transcripts…………………………………………………………………...58
SECTION IX
ACKNOWLEDGMENT …………………………..…….….58
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WELCOME
To Our Parents:
Thank you for sending your children to Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. It is our
responsibility to assist you in your task as Catholic parents. Catholic schools are
communities of faith with strong academic programs because of your consistent support
and encouragement. Our primary aim is to help our students take on the mind and heart
of Jesus Christ according to the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. We also, like
you, want them to do well in their future careers and to achieve personal fulfillment.
Your cooperation, your personal interest in your child’s school life, and your
commitment to the Church are essential to achieving those goals.
As a relatively small school, we are able to offer personal attention not only in academics
but also in the life and growth of individual students. Please feel free to set up
appointments with the administration or with the teachers to discuss your child’s progress
and needs.
To Our Students:
We welcome you to the Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School community. We believe
that in your years at BG you will have many opportunities to mature in your faith,
establish deep and lasting friendships, develop your own unique talents, and prepare
academically for life after high school. In order to maintain an atmosphere in which
these goals can be achieved by you and by your fellow students, certain expectations are
essential. The rules laid out in this handbook have been developed with your well-being
and the well-being of the entire Bishop Guilfoyle community in mind.
Our administration, faculty, and staff are dedicated to helping you realize your personal
goals. Our hope is that in working toward these aspirations you will develop a lasting
respect for our school and the many individuals who make this institution possible.
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AUTHORITY STRUCTURE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The Bishop, the Ordinary of the Diocese, is specially entrusted with the teaching office
for the Roman Catholic Church within the diocese. As part of the diocesan family,
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is accountable to the Bishop, the Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School Board of Trustees and President purpose is to ensure the
long term success and growth of the institution.
Direct authority and responsibility within the school are invested in the Principal, who is
assisted in administrating the school and all its programs by an assistant principal,
department heads, faculty, staff, and Student Council.
In addition to fulfilling diocesan requirements, Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is
accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States
Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges.
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BELL SCHEDULES 2015-2016
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
REGULAR SCHEDULE
Period 1:
7:53 – 8:40
Period 2:
8:43 – 9:25
Period 3:
9:28 – 10:10
Period 4:
10:13 – 10:55
Period 5: 11:31 – 12:13
Period 6: 12:16 – 12:58
Lunch 2: 11:43 – 12:13
Period 6: 12:16 – 12:58
Period 6: 11:43 – 12:25
Lunch 3: 12:28 – 12:58
Lunch 1: 10:58 - 11:28
Period 5: 10:58 – 11:40
Period 5: 10:58 – 11:40
Period 7:
1:01 – 1:43
Period 8:
1:46 – 2:28
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Our scheduling program uses expressions while our time schedule follows periods. Please use
this chart for Expression to Period conversions
Expression
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Period
1
Time
7:53 - 8:40
Homeroom
Homeroom is only o Thursday
2
3
4
8:43 - 9:25
9:28 - 10:10
10:13 - 10:55
10:58 - 11:28
10:58 - 11:40
11:43 - 12:13
11:31 - 12:13
11:43 - 12:25
12:28 - 12:58
12:16 - 12:58
1:01 - 1:43
1:46 - 2:28
First Lunch(4A)
5
Second Lunch(5A)
5B
6
Third Lunch(6A)
6B
7
8
Please use following chart to determine your lunch period.
During homeroom on the first day of school, each student will receive a copy of
his/her schedule noting his/her lunch period.
Lunch Period
Expression Sequence:
Lunch 1
Lunch 2
Lunch 3
1,3,4,5,9,12,13,14
1,3,4,5,7,12,13,14
1,3,4,5,7,10,13,14
FULL DAY SCHEDULE
WITH AM MASS/ASSEMBLY
PM ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE
Period 1:
7:53 – 8:22
Period 1:
7:53 – 8:30
Period 2:
8:25 – 8:49
Period 2:
8:33 – 9:05
Mass/Assembly:
8:49– 10:04
Period 3:
9:08 – 9:40
Period 3:
10:04 – 10:28
Period 4:
9:43 – 10:15
Period 4:
10:31 – 10:55
Period 8:
10:18 – 10:55
Resume Regular Schedule at 10:55
Periods 5 & 6 and Lunches – Regular Schedule
Students will report to homeroom prior to assembly
Period 7:
Assembly:
EARLY DISMISSAL
Period 1:
7:53 – 8:21
Period 2:
8:24 – 8:48
Period 3:
8:51 – 9:15
Period 4:
9:18 – 9:42
Period 5:
9:45 – 10:09
Period 6:
10:12 – 10:36
Period 7:
10:39 – 11:03
Period 8:
11:06 – 11:30
1:01 – 1:43
1:46 – 2:28
EARLY DISMISSAL –HALF DAY
SCHEDULE WITH MASS
Period 1 or 5:
7:53 – 8:30
Period 2 or 6:
8:33 – 9:05
Period 3:
10:40 – 10:58
Periods 5, 6, and Lunches – Regular Schedule
TWO HOUR DELAY
Period 1:
Period 2:
Period 4:
1:01 – 1:28
Period 7:
1:31 – 1:58
Period 8:
2:01 – 2:28
MASS:
9:05 – 10:23
Period 3 or 7:
10:23 – 10:55
Period 4 or 8:
10:58 – 11:30
9:55– 10:15
10:18 – 10:37
Dismissal at 11:30
HOMEROOM DAY SCHEDULE
Period 1:
7:53 – 8:33
Homeroom:
8:36 – 8:46
Period 2:
8:49 – 9:29
Period 3:
9:32 – 10:12
Period 4:
10:15 – 10:55
Resume Regular Schedule at 10:55
BLOCK SCHEDULE
Period 3/1
7:53 – 9:25
Period 4/2
9:28 – 10:55
Lunch 1
Period 8/5
Lunch 2
10:58 – 11:28 (will go to 8b/5b)
10:58 – 12:25 (will go to lunch 2)
12:28 – 12:58
Period 8b/5b
11:31 – 12:58
Period 7/6
1:01 – 2:28
SECTION 1: MISSION /VISION/ BELIEF STATEMENTS
Mission Statement
The MISSION of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is to prepare young men and
women for rewarding and productive lives in our global society; young men and women
of vision and passion who are securely grounded in Christian spirituality, academic
proficiency, and personal accountability.
Vision Statement
The VISION of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is to be an integral and perpetual
resource for our community by providing exceptional educational experiences that guide
and inspire students to fully develop and share their abilities and talents for the good of
all God’s children.
Belief Statements
WE BELIEVE:

That Catholic values and beliefs, grounded in our love for Jesus Christ, are the source and
center from which we teach and learn.
 That celebration of the sacramental life of the Roman Catholic Church, within the parish as
well as the school community, is the central source of strength for the Bishop Guilfoyle
family.
 That we complement and support parents as the primary educators of their children.
 That we must nurture the spirit, mind, and body of all members of the Bishop Guilfoyle
community.
 That instilling and integrating Christian values and teachings is imperative in preparing our
students for the contemporary world.
 That all individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect from the moment of conception
to the time of natural death.
 That accountability for one’s actions and decisions and respect for all persons are necessary
components of a disciplined and effective learning environment.
 That students should be met on their individual levels and educated toward lifelong learning.
 That we must help students to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and problem
solving strategies within the context of a Christian approach to meeting life’s challenges.
That students should be prepared to understand and actively engage in the comp MISSION AND
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IDENTITY OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
As a parent/guardian of a student in a Catholic school, I understand, affirm, and support
the following:
1. The primary purpose of a Catholic school education is to form students in the values
of
Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
2. Catholic schools are distinctive religious education institutions operated as programs
of the Catholic Church; they are not private schools but are administered and
supported by the sponsoring parish(es) or the diocese.
3. Attending a Catholic school is a privilege, not a right.
4. While academic excellence and involvement in extracurricular activity (i.e. sports,
clubs, etc.) are important, fidelity to the Catholic identity of the school is the
fundamental priority.
5. The school and its administration have the responsibility to ensure that Catholic values
and moral integrity permeate every facet of the school’s life and activity.
6. In all questions involving faith, morals, faith teaching, and Church law, the final
determination rests with the diocesan bishop.
As a parent/guardian desiring to enroll my child in a Catholic school, I accept this
Memorandum of Understanding. I pledge support for the Catholic identity and mission
of this school and by enrolling my child I commit myself to uphold all the principles and
policies that govern a Catholic school.
 lexities of a global, interdependent society, creating rather than accepting the future.
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SECTION II: POLICIES
Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
BG/Diocesan AUP is distributed to each student and available on the Bishop Guilfoyle
Webpage. Parents and students are required to review, abide with this information and
return a signed acceptance document.
After School Supervision Policy
Upon dismissal from school, all students are to leave the building and grounds unless
they are involved in a recognized and supervised school sponsored activity. Any student
found to be in the building or on school grounds unsupervised will be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action as determined by the principal or his designee.
AIDS Policy
Copies are on file in the main office and are available for your review.
Assemblies
School assemblies are held for purposes of worship, education, and entertainment.
Conduct should be always courteous and appropriate to the purpose of the assembly.
Assemblies for prayer require quiet attention and active participation. All assemblies
require attention and appreciative response. Bishop Guilfoyle student who attends the
Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center must receive administration approval to
alter their routine class schedule in order to attend a PM school-related assembly.
Parents may call the school office to receive more information on school assemblies and
are asked to notify the school office if requesting that your student does not participate in
any school assembly.
Attendance and Tardiness
Consistent, interested presence in class is a necessity for success in any course. In the
student’s education, interaction with the teacher and with other students and participation
in class activities are as important as assignments and testing. Students should be aware
that colleges and employers regularly inquire about attendance and tardiness. Once
students arrive to school they are not permitted to leave the building except with an
excuse approved by administration along with parent/guardian permission.
Absence
1. Parents are requested to call the school office in the morning each day your child
is absent from school.
2. Excused and Unexcused Absences: Full day or half-day absences for personal
illness, serious illness or death in the family, emergency medical/dental attention
or a parental requested absence approved in advance by the principal will be
15
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
excused up to 10 total days of absences. Students with excused absences are
permitted to make up and receive credit for missed work and tests. All other
absences are considered unexcused absences. Students with an unexcused absence
will receive a failing grade of 0% on any work missed during the unexcused
absence. Students who accumulate 3 or more unexcused absences will be engaged
in a truancy plan through a referral to the Student Assistance Program. Absences
beyond the 10 days may be excused provided advance approval is granted by the
administration.
Make-Up Work: Students with an excused absence (suspensions are included as
excused absences) from class are responsible for all class work, assignments, and
test missed during their absence. Make-up work should be arranged with the
teacher on the day of return to class and should be completed in a reasonable time
as determined by the teacher. A grade of “0” is recorded for any work that is not
made-up by the date specified by the teacher. Students with unexcused absences
do not receive credit for any work missed during their absence. Nonetheless, it is
expected that all make-up work will be completed in order for the learning process
to continue.
Upon returning to school after an absence, including an absence on a virtual
education day, students present to the school office immediately upon arrival a
dated note from parents stating the specific reason for the absence. The student
then receives an Admit Slip to be signed by all class teachers for that day. Failure
to bring the written excuse from home will result in an Unexcused Admit Slip; the
note is then due the following day, when the student will receive an Excused
Admit Slip. If an excuse from home is not brought in by the second day, absence
is recorded permanently as unexcused.
AM Half Day Absence: Students arriving after 8:35 AM are considered a half day
absent and may not participate in any school activities or athletic practices/games
held after school hours that day unless a medical excuse is provided or exception
is granted by the administration.
PM Half Day Absence: Students who leave school prior to 1:45 PM will be
considered a half day absent for the PM. These students may not participate in
any after school activities including athletic practices/games that day unless a
medical excuse is provided or exception is granted by the administration.
In cases of several days’ absence, parents may request and pick up from the school
office all assignments, or make arrangements with their teachers beforehand when
the absence is a planned one or approved by the administration. To request
assignments for prolonged absences; it is recommended that parents request
assignments when a student is or will be out of school for 3 or more consecutive
days.
Routine appointments such as medical, dental and physical therapy should be
scheduled outside of school time. Such appointments during the school day
should be the exception. Any student excused for medical or dental appointments
must bring an official “Certificate to Return to School/Work” from the doctor’s
office upon returning to school.
Students who are illegally absent from school, who are absent without parents’
consent, who leave school for any amount of time without permission from the
office or without signing out, or who absent themselves from any class are
considered truant. Truancy is an unexcused absence. In addition to losing credit
for work missed, students will face disciplinary action.
Repeated absence for any student would seem to indicate a problem requiring
medical attention. Therefore, after ten (10) total days of total absences, excused or
16
unexcused, a doctor’s excuse is required for any further missed time from school;
otherwise, further absences are considered unexcused. Parents will be informed of
this measure by mail if such becomes necessary.
10. A doctor’s excuse is always required if a student is absent from a semester or final
examination because of illness.
11. Students who are absent from school for 30 days or more during the school year
do not receive credit for the courses in which they are enrolled.
12. Absences, both excused and unexcused, are noted on the student’s official school
records.
13. Administration will consider and may make alterations to the absence policy after
a parent conference regarding extenuating circumstances.
14. College visits are limited to three (3) per year for seniors only. Seniors must
complete a college visit form (available in Counseling office) and return it to the
school office. These three (3) days are in addition to the ten (10) days allowed.
15. In-house college visits are limited to three (3) per year. Students must present a
verification slip (available in the Counseling office) to the classroom teacher prior
to leaving class for a scheduled visit. Students may not be excused from testing
for in-house college visits.
Tardiness
1. Students who arrive in school between 7:53 AM and 8:35 AM are considered
tardy and are to report to the school office for a late slip in order to be admitted
to classes. Students present to the school office immediately upon arrival a
dated note from parents stating the specific reason for the tardy. The student
then receives a Tardy Slip for admittance to class. Failure to bring the written
excuse from home will result in an Unexcused Tardy Slip; the note is then due
the following day, when the student will receive an Excused Tardy Slip. If an
excuse from home is not brought in by the second day, tardy is recorded
permanently as unexcused.
2. Tardiness will be excused up to 10 total days with a note from the student’s
parent/guardian. Students with an excused tardy are permitted to make up and
receive credit for missed work and tests. Tardiness without a parental excuse or
exceeding 10 occurrences is considered an unexcused tardy. Repeated tardiness
for any student would seem to indicate a problem requiring medical attention.
Therefore, after ten (10) total days of total tardiness, excused or unexcused, a
doctor’s excuse is required for any further missed time from school; otherwise,
further tardiness is considered unexcused. Students who accumulate 3 or more
unexcused absences will be engaged in a truancy plan through a referral to the
Student Assistance Program.
3. Students with an unexcused tardy will receive a failing grade of 0% on any work
missed during the unexcused absence from class. Tardiness beyond the 10 days
may be excused provided advance approval is granted by the administration.
4. Students who are tardy to school for 30 days or more during the school year do
not receive credit for the period one course in which they are enrolled. Note:
Students who have a combination of 30 or more absent and tardy days do not
receive credit for the period one course in which they are enrolled.
5. Tardiness may result in disciplinary action.
6. Tardiness is noted on the student’s official school record.
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Authorization Forms
Authorization forms for use of child/youth name, likeness, and/or photographic image
must be signed by the parent or legal guardian for every student and returned to the
school office.
Automobiles and Other Vehicles
Students are required to obtain a parking permit in order to drive their vehicle to school
and to park on school property. Permits may be obtained from the high school office on
an annual basis by completing and submitting a parking permit application along with a
seventy-five dollar ($75.00)/full school year or fifty dollar ($50.00)/2nd semester parking
permit fee. Parking permit fees are used to help maintain the school parking lot.
Students who drive to school must observe the following regulations; failure to do so will
result in fines and/or the revocation of driving/parking privileges and/or the student’s
vehicle towed at his/her expense.
1. Students who drive to school must park on school property in their assigned
parking space.
2. The student’s parking permit must always be displayed in a prominent place on
the front windshield of the vehicle.
3. Students must drive and park in a safe manner, observing all laws and rules of
etiquette.
4. Student drivers who are tardy three (3) times may lose their driving/parking
privileges for a period of time determined by the school administration.
Additional tardiness may result in the loss of driving/parking privileges for the
remainder of the school year.
5. Individuals are not permitting to leave vehicles parked in the school parking lot
without prior approval by school administration.
When parked on school property, all vehicles are subject to all school rules and
regulations as well as all local, state, and federal laws. All vehicles are subject to search
by the school administration for reasonable cause.
Bookstore
The bookstore, located directly across from the gym, is open at announced times.
Students can purchase items bearing the school insignia.
Cell Phones
Cell phone are not permitted to be in a student’s possession, turned on or used during the
school day. If a student brings a cell phone to school, the cell phone must be kept in the
student’s locker and must be turned off at all times. In addition to the disciplinary action
specified in the “Accountability” area of this section of the Student Handbook, cell
phones that are in a student’s possession, turned on or used during the school day will be
confiscated and held in the school office until the end of the following school day for the
first offense and for a period of one week for each subsequent offense.
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Child Protective Service Law
Any person who, in the course of their employment, occupation, or practice of their
profession come into contact with children shall report or cause a report to be made to
ChildLine (800-932-0313) when they have reasonable cause to suspect, on the basis of
their medical, professional or other training and experience, that a child coming before
them in their professional or official capacity is a victim of child abuse. (Source:
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare)
Confidentiality
Students at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School have the right to privacy and
confidentiality. Students’ personal information, including health records, academic
record, attendance/discipline records, photos, etc. are not to be shared between students.
Corridors
In consideration of others, students speak quietly walking through the corridors.
Running, shouting, and littering are inappropriate and unacceptable in an academic
atmosphere.
Dress Code
The official school uniform is available for purchase through the Ravine, located in
Altoona, PA.
The uniform for female students consists of a navy sweater; navy vest; light gray skirt
(must be from the Ravine); light blue or white long/short sleeve oxford shirt; solid color
navy, gray, or white socks/tights; and plain black or cordovan penny loafers. All girls
must have both the vest and the sweater. The skirt length must be no shorter than two (2)
inches above the knee. Hair styles and makeup should be neat and conventional;
extreme styles and excessive makeup or jewelry are inappropriate.
The uniform for male students consists of a navy blazer (must be from the Ravine(must
be from the Ravine(must be from the Ravine); light gray slacks; brown or black belt;
light blue or white long/short sleeve shirt; solid navy tie; navy, gray, white, or black dress
socks; and plain black or cordovan penny loafers. Male students are to be clean shaven
each morning. Hair is not to extend below the collar or earlobe. Mustaches, beards,
sideburns, and extreme hair styles are not acceptable.
Uniforms are to be neat and clean, not torn or stained.
Plain penny loafers are the required footwear for all students. Students with foot
problems that require special footwear may present a letter from their podiatrist for
exemption from this policy. If sneakers are required by a physician, they must be all
black - no colored decorations. The plain (no tassel) penny loafers may be purchased at
any store.
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For both males and females, visible tattoos, body piercing (female students may have one
(1) standard size piercing in each ear), and unacceptable jewelry including beaded and
chain necklaces are not permitted. Students are not permitted to wear facial jewelry.
Male students may not wear earrings or studs; female students may wear one earring in
each ear. Shirt tails must be tucked neatly into the pants or skirt. Tee shirts with decals
or art are not permitted under the school uniform; only plain white tee shirts may be
worn. Male students must have shirt collars buttoned and ties neatly placed to their neck.
All students must be dressed in full uniform from the time they enter the building until
the time they leave the building.
Throughout the year, extracurricular groups will sponsor dress down days where students
may dress out of uniform.
The following general guidelines are to be followed for dress down days: Students are
allowed to wear clean, neat jeans or other pants. Girls may wear capri pants. Leggings,
jean leggings, sweatpants, tear-aways and shorts are not allowed. If not otherwise
specified, students are to wear BG shirts, either sweatshirts (this includes hoodies) or Tshirts. Students are not allowed to wear other shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, etc. over the BG
shirt. For safety reasons, open-toed shoes, sandals and flip-flops are not permitted at any
time. Specific guidelines may be issued for special occasions.
Senior Picture Guidelines – Attire for senior class pictures is to be appropriate. Boys
are not to have facial hair or earrings. Boys and girls are not permitted to have any
visible tattoos or facial piercings.
Drug and Alcohol Policy
All students at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School are individuals with God-given
dignity and significant human potential. All have the right and responsibility to develop
their natural gifts. We are convinced that chemical abuse and/or dependency prevent
students from becoming all that they are called to be by God. The abusive use of drugs,
alcohol, other controlled substance, and other chemical substances impairs rational
functions, leads to physical and psychological dependency, scars relationships with other
people, and impedes spiritual growth.
Based upon this belief, the school adopts a zero tolerance position regarding the
possession and/or use, mimic of use, sale and/or mimic of sale, distribution and/or intent
of distribution of drugs/alcohol and/or any illegal or controlled substance and/or the
abuse of any other chemical substance on school property, at school sponsored events, on
school buses, and in route to and from school by any mode. Any student who violates
this zero tolerance position shall forfeit their right to attend Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School.
Drug Testing Policy
Overview
Concern for student safety has increased dramatically in the past decade. Areas of
concern focus on healthy lifestyles, Christian moral character, wise decision-making and
safe living. Many health and safety programs already exist in our school, and yet we are
aware of additional factors that mandate further steps to assist parents in the total
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education and safety of their children. Therefore, all students enrolled at Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School will be eligible to serve as part of the sample group for
random selection in a Drug Testing program.
Policy to be Implemented
1. An outside drug testing agency will be employed by the school to administer
the tests.
2. All Bishop Guilfoyle students will be assigned an identification number.
3. When the agency arrives to administer tests, they will bring a list of randomly
selected student identification numbers
4. The agency and their health officials will administer the test.
5. In the event of a Non-negative result, the testing sample will be sent to the
laboratory of the agency for further evaluation. The laboratory fee will be
assessed to the parents.
6. Findings of a Negative (no drugs apparently present) will be shared by the
principal with the students and their parents.
7. Findings of the first Non-negative or Positive (drugs detected in the test
sample) will be shared by the principal with the students and their parents.
The student will automatically be referred to and must complete the Drug and
Alcohol Student Assistance Program (SAP). Failure to cooperate will result
in withdrawal/expulsion from Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
8. The process will be repeated periodically throughout the school year.
9. Funding for the random tests will be met by private contributions and grants.
It is the policy of the school, based on our Christian values, to offer assistance and
guidance in aiding students who, for whatever reason, find themselves involved in the use
of drugs. Following steps of assistance and intervention for individuals, the concern and
focus must be the remaining members of the student body and prevention of the influence
of drugs on those who have remained drug-free.
Eligibility Policy
In addition to academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities is
important to Bishop Guilfoyle’s total educational and communal program. Students are
encouraged to become involved in at least one extracurricular activity during the school
year in order to develop their talents, contribute to the building of friendships and school
spirit, and enjoy healthy forms of recreation.
Involvement in extracurricular activities, however, is secondary to academic work. For
students who fall behind in school work, extra help, extra study time, and teacher
conference take precedence over any activity.
Students are expected to plan their
schedules and establish proper priorities. Those priorities include school work and
personal responsibilities toward family, church, and community.
Students should be aware that they represent Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School in
an even more public way when they engage in extracurricular activities, especially those
involving competition. Consequently, they have a special added responsibility to conduct
themselves accordingly. Christian morality, sportsmanship, and courtesy are expected of
them at all times.
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All school policies and regulations are in effect at all extracurricular activities including
all activities outside the classroom.
The following guidelines govern student participation in extracurricular activities:
1. Students must pass at least six (6) classes to be eligible to participate in all
structured extra-curricular activities. Structured extracurricular activities include
all school-related activities except those that a student may attend as a spectator.
2. Ineligibility based upon a student’s failure to maintain passing grades in at least
six (6) classes shall be in effect for one full week. This ineligibility will run from
Monday through Sunday.
3. Students who fail to maintain an acceptable disciplinary and attendance record
will be ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities.
4. Students may not participate in any extracurricular activity during any in-school
or out-of-school suspension.
5. All school-related financial obligations, including tuition payments, must be
current to the previous sixty (60) days of the year for a student to participate in all
structured extracurricular activities. Exceptions will only be made if the student’s
parents/guardians have signed a financial payment plan that has been approved by
the school administration.
6. Students who participate in extracurricular activities during their ineligibility
restrictions will have their ineligibility time extended.
Email
Parents/Guardians are to submit an active email address to the school office. School
correspondences may be forwarded via email. Email is the vehicle that provides parents
with access to the PowerSchool Student Information System.
Electronic Communication to Students
School Email is considered the official electronic method of communication to Bishop
Guilfoyle students. All students are assigned a school email account
([email protected]). Students are expected to check their school email
daily.
Users should exercise extreme caution in using email to communicate confidential or
sensitive matters, and should not assume that email is private and confidential. It is
especially important that users are careful to send messages only to the intended
recipient(s), especially when using the 'reply' command during email correspondence.
Finally, although many users regard e-mail as being like a telephone in offering a quick,
informal way to communicate, users should remember that e-mails can be stored, copied,
printed, or forwarded by recipients. As such, users should not write anything in an e-mail
message that they would not feel just as comfortable putting into a memorandum.
All use of email will be consistent with other Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
policies.
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Entertainment/Electronic Devices
Headphones, pagers, beepers, personal CD players, Ipods, cameras, and all other such
devices are not permitted in the school, without written permission from IT Coordinator.
In accordance with NSBA (National School Board Association) Reference 814, students
are not permitted to use any device to photograph or videotape during the school day or
school events without teacher/administrator written permission.
FERPA (The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
Information and guidance on FERPA is available via the following link:
http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/for-parents.pdf. A brochure can be
obtained in the main office or via a link to the brochure:
http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/brochures/parents.pdf.
Field and Class Trips
Field trips may be scheduled by the school. All field trips must be approved by the
principal. Approval must be obtained at least one month prior to the field trip. Parental
permission forms provided by the school are required of all participants. Telephone calls
are not accepted in place of the proper form. Field trips are privileges afforded to the
students; participation in such trips may be denied for academic, attendance, behavioral
or financial reasons by the administration or by the sponsoring faculty chaperones. All
school rules and regulations are applicable during the field trip.
Fire Drills and Other Crisis/Emergency Drills
Fire drills and other crisis/emergency drills are held periodically to ensure that students
and members of the school staff follow proper procedures in the event of an emergency
situation. Fire drill instructions and directional signs are posted in every room. A copy
of the school’s Crisis Management Plan, which contains procedures for all
crisis/emergency drills, is maintained by every teacher in an easily accessible place in or
on their desk.
Fundraising
All fundraising projects must have the approval of the principal. Students, parents, clubs,
teams, etc., are not permitted to solicit donations in the name of Bishop Guilfoyle without
permission from school administration.
Graduation Participation
Participation in graduation is a privilege reserved for those who earn their diploma.
Students who have successfully completed all academic requirements, have no pending
disciplinary action, have no financial obligations with the school, and have no pending
citations from any law enforcement agency will be permitted to participate in the
commencement program at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.
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Health Records
Students and parents are required to maintain and update students’ medical records at
school. A complete listing of medications and emergency procedures including
emergency notification must be in place. Student health records will be treated with
respect for privacy and confidentiality. Student health records are available for release to
the student upon graduation from Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
ID (Student Activity Cards)
ID cards are required for admittance to school-sponsored activities. ID cards must also
be presented for lunch payments. A fee is charged for the student’s initial ID card as well
as an additional charge for late or lost cards. Students must carry their ID cards with
them at all times.
Internet Policy
Internet access is available to students at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Our
goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource
sharing, innovation, and communication. Internet access provides the ability to use the
World Wide Web, an international network of computers. Thousands of web sites
provide information for education. BG is managing the student transmission(s) in
accordance with the Child Internet Protection Act.
It is impossible to control access to all the materials available through the Internet, and an
industrious user may discover controversial information.
We have curriculum designed to educate the students on Internet Safety and Bulling
activities.
Lockers
All students will be assigned a locker. The locker is to be used to store textbooks and
other items that the student may be required to bring to school. Lockers must be kept
clean and orderly and locker doors are to be kept closed. Disciplinary action will be
taken, as provided in Section V of this handbook, for failing to maintain a clean and
orderly locker and/or for failing to keep locker doors closed. Students are not permitted
to share lockers with other students.
Students do not have an expectation of privacy regarding the use of lockers. Lockers are
the property of the school and as such, they may be searched for reasonable cause by the
school administration.
Lost and Found
Found articles should be turned in to the main office where the owner can claim them.
Students are reminded not to bring large amounts of money or valuable equipment to
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school. If it becomes necessary occasionally to bring such items, they should be left in
the school office until dismissal time.
Marriage Policy
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School exists for the formation of adolescents; therefore,
in keeping with the adult responsibilities they have chosen, married students will not
ordinarily continue or be admitted as members of the school. In all decisions the
principal will take into consideration the Diocesan Guidelines of Marriage Preparation.
Materials for Display
Announcements and posters of any kind to be displayed in the school must be approved
by the moderator responsible for the activity. All other materials must be turned in to the
school office and will be displayed after administrative approval.
Multiple Extracurricular Participation Policy
Students at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School may participate in multiple
extracurricular activities within the same season provided they maintain good academic
standards, meet the requirements of eligibility found in the handbook, and maintain a
positive attitude toward cooperation between coaches/moderators. When a student
selects two or more activities in the same season, the student must declare a single
activity preference. Procedures to be followed are available in the Athletic Office and
School Office.
Nondiscrimination Policy
The Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, Inc., admits students of any race, color,
national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, and activities generally
accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis
of race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational
policies, admission policies, scholarship programs, athletic and other school-administered
programs.
Physical Education Uniforms
All students are required to wear the school physical education uniform when
participating in physical education classes. These uniforms are available at the Ravine,
located in Altoona, PA.
Practices on Sundays, Holy Days and Emergency Days
In keeping with our identity as a Catholic high school, no practices may be scheduled on
Sundays. Practices are not held on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day,
New Year’s Day and during the Easter Triduum (Holy Thursday Evening, Good Friday,
Holy Saturday Evening and Easter Sunday).
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When school is cancelled because of weather conditions, all practices are also
automatically cancelled. Exceptions may be granted by the principal, given extraordinary
circumstances.
When student leave school early due to their school districts weather related early
dismissal, students are not permitted to return to the school for after school activities and
practices.
Pregnancy Policy
With full awareness of the worth and dignity of every human person and of the
sacredness of human life, Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School provides support and
counsel when a student experiences pregnancy and the serious decisions it presents. The
purpose at all times is to help the young person to arrive at reasonable, life-affirming,
morally correct choices in the situation.
If a Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School student is known to be pregnant or to have
fathered a child, a conference is scheduled with parents/guardian and the administration
of the school. Provision for family counseling and appropriate prenatal care is expected.
Rest Rooms
Rest rooms are located in various areas of the building. Students may go to the rest
rooms between classes or with a properly authorized hall pass from class.
School Records
Academic records and official transcripts are maintained by the school administration.
Student transcripts will be forwarded upon request provided all financial obligations are
met and up to date. Student attendance records and discipline records are also maintained
by the administration.
Security Cameras
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is monitored by security cameras. Video tapes,
recorded by the security cameras, are reviewed and maintained by school officials. These
tapes can and will be used in disciplinary and/or criminal proceedings as deemed
necessary by the school administration.
Social Media
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is only responsible for quality of the information
posted by the official BG account represented and not for the quality of the information
posted by other users. The official sites of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School are:
Home Website http://www.bishopguilfoyle.org
Facebook http://facebook.com/BGCHS
Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/BishopGuilfoyleCHS/
Twitter http://twitter.com/BGCHS_PA or https://twitter.com/MarauderMirror
Student Online Newspaper www.maraudermirror.org
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Technology Equipment for Students
Students are issued and iPad, case and cables. Policy and Procedures governing this
equipment and all technology equipment that is used at BG is covered in the AUP policy.
Telephones
The office telephone is a business phone and is normally reserved for school business.
Students may use the office telephone for legitimate reasons, as approved by the school
administration. Parents who need to contact their children during the school day may call
the school office. Remember that students are not permitted to carry, use or have their
cell phones turned on during the school day.
Unauthorized Area Policy
There exist various areas of the school that are considered to be off limits to students.
There are also times in which areas where students are permitted access may be deemed
or considered unauthorized due to circumstances or situations that may arise. Any
student found or determined to be in an unauthorized area of the school will be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action as determined by the principal or designee.
Visitors
All visitors to the school must report to the school office to receive and wear an
authorized pass. Parents are always welcome at the school. Other visitors with business
at the school are also welcome.
Youth Protection Program
All adults interacting with our students, such as faculty, staff, coaches, chaperones, etc.,
must complete the Youth Protection Program training mandated by the Diocese of
Altoona-Johnstown. A student program geared towards safety and self-protection is also
part of the diocesan program and offered to our students.
SECTION III: STUDENT SERVICES
Bus Transportation Services
Passes are provided for students eligible to ride the buses to and from school. Eligibility
is determined by the school districts responsible for public transportation. Students who
ride the buses are subject to the authority of the bus driver. All school rules, regulations,
and policies are in effect in the transportation system. Van transportation for students
from the State College area is provided on limited basis at a cost to the parents/guardians.
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Cafeteria Services
A hot lunch and breakfast program is provided daily for all students. Free and reduced
meals are available for eligible students; request forms for this purpose are mailed to all
families in August and are also available in the school office. Breakfasts and lunches are
purchased in advance through a computerized system. Your Bishop Guilfoyle student
lunch account activity is available online at via our school website. From this website,
you can view and deposit funds to your student’s account. You will need your student’s
school ID number. Parents may call the Bishop Guilfoyle school office for their
student’s ID number. The student ID card must be presented to purchase school meals.
The following procedures serve to facilitate efficient cafeteria service and to maintain a
pleasant atmosphere:
 Students form lines to be served and do so in an orderly manner.
 If no lunch credit is available, a special meal will be provided and can be charged
to the student’s account to be paid later. No more than three (3) lunches may be
charged.
 After three (3) lunches have been purchased on credit, any student with a negative
balance on account may be denied lunch.
 Students remain seated during the lunch period.
 After eating, students return the trays to the cleaning area. Tables are to be
cleared of debris and left clean and orderly for the next lunch period.
 Students should conduct themselves in the cafeteria at all times as they would at
family meals in their own homes.
 Eating or drinking is not permitted anywhere in the building outside of the
cafeteria.
 Any senior with a balance on the lunch account over a dollar ($1.00) at the end of
the school year will be issued a refund check. Any junior, sophomore, or
freshman with a balance on the lunch account will have that balance applied to the
account for the following school year.
The cafeteria service has been expanded to include breakfast. Breakfast items will be
available from 7:30 – 7:45.
Campus Ministry/Spiritual Counseling
As young members of the Church, high school students are experiencing a unique stage
of spiritual development. The campus ministry department assists in providing for the
religious and spiritual needs of the school community. The approach is a total one,
including elements of catechesis, worship, community, guidance and healing, service,
justice, and enablement.
Chapel
Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament is the center of our life at Bishop Guilfoyle
Catholic High School. All members of our faith community have a standing invitation to
the chapel for prayer.
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Opportunities for both prayer and liturgical celebration abound for the Bishop Guilfoyle
student. Special liturgies and prayer services are scheduled for the entire school
throughout the year. Scheduled communal penance services are part of our annual
calendar.
Counseling Services
The Counseling Department exists to provide emotional, social, academic and career
counseling to students. Through classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling
sessions with school counselor, the School Counseling Program at Bishop Guilfoyle aims
to help students achieve positive personal, social, and academic growth. As such, we
help students develop and maintain a sense of responsibility in their lives. Students are
expected to schedule time to gather the information needed to help them in making life
decisions.
Students may be referred for counseling services by teachers, parents, administrators,
coaches, peers or they may themselves request a meeting with the counselor. Students
should obtain a pass from the school counselor in the morning before first period.
Parents may call the counseling office at any time to share concerns, receive academic
information or to schedule a meeting.
English as a Second Language Service
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School has secured the services of an English as a
Second Language (ESL) instructor. Referrals for this service should be made to the
Counseling Office.
Health Services
The Nurse’s Room is Room 129, located across from the school office. Students are not
permitted to go directly to the nurse’s room. They are to inform a teacher of their illness;
the teacher will then send them to the school office for the required direction and
permissions. Parents and/or the school nurse will be notified if necessary.
Students who require special medication during school hours must bring an explanatory
note from parents along with directions from the family physician detailing time, amount,
and duration of medication. All medications are left in the school office; students may
not keep medication of any kind in their possession or locker.
Library Services
The library is an important resource center for the entire school community. It is a place
for study and research. Books and other materials may be signed out and should be
returned by the due date. Fines are designated for late returns. Students may go to the
library only with a properly authorized hall pass. Our library is affiliated with Access
PA. This facilitates our ability to acquire the needed books and information from over
one thousand schools and public libraries on the system.
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Protocol for Student Academic Adjustments
1. How is a student originally identified:
If a parent is concerned that their child may need to be tested for a
learning disability or another health concern, the school administration,
counselor or teacher can direct the parent to contact their home school
district’s school psychologist for testing for learning disabilities or the
parents are given the process for finding a covered physician for a
medical diagnosis.
 By the local school district’s school psychologist: Parents must put in
writing a request to their school district to have the student tested. The
testing has to be completed within 90 days from the date of the request
(excluding summer)
 By a specializing physician: The doctor must provide in writing the
student diagnosis with explanation, recommendations for
academic/physical/emotional adjustments, and their contact
information.
 BG does not follow IEPs, but can review them for possible
adjustments
2. Notification of Request for Adjustments:
It is the responsibility of the student’s parents to notify the school if their
child has been tested and diagnosed with a disability by a school
psychologist or specialized doctor. The parents must provide BG
administration with a copy of the IEP or diagnosis in order to be
considered for adjustments. Note: The adjustments made at the student’s
previous school will not automatically be put into place at BG.
 Required Paperwork:
o School Psychologist: Copy of IEP listing diagnosis,
recommended adjustments
o Specializing Physician: student diagnosis with
explanation, recommendations for
academic/physical/emotional adjustments, and their contact
information.
3. Review of Records and Recommendations
After receipt of the needed documentation, the BG administration and
counselor will review the student’s documentation, including current
achievement levels.
4. Parent/Administration Meeting
The student’s parents, BG Administration, and counselor may meet to
discuss what BG is and is not able to provide.
5. Support Services Offered
Support services vary by student and by diagnosis. While BG does not follow
IEPs, BG asks for supporting documentation from specializing physicians and
school psychologists to help us determine if a student can receive services at
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6.
7.
8.
9.
Bishop Guifoyle. Additionally, a student’s current and past achievement
levels are reviewed. Ultimately, while the input of the professionals is used to
help build framework for the student’s adjustments, the adjustments that the
student will or will not be offered is up to BG administration. Parents and
students have the right to accept or decline the adjustments we are able to
provide.
For example:
 Extended test time
 Tests read aloud
 Quiet testing space
 Buddy system
 Peer/teacher notes
 Pictures of homework assignments, etc.
 Preferential seating
 Involvement in Reading Specialist Program*
 Testing with the IU Reading Specialist (Only when the student has
been through the reading program)*
 Calculators in Math class
 SAP program enrollment
*If IU8 affords this service to Bishop Guilfoyle
Student Adjustments Agreement
This agreement outlines the adjustments that school is able and willing to
provide the student and student expectations for success.
 Parents are asked to review and sign the student’s Adjustment
Agreement.
 The Principal signs the Adjustment Agreement and returns a copy
to the parents.
Notifying the Student
If the student was not already addressed through the previous meeting(s),
the counselor will meet individually with the student to relay the
adjustments they are able to receive. Emphasis is placed on it being the
responsibility of the student to follow our expectations for success and that
they must let the counselor or administration know if they are not
receiving the services.
Notifying the Teachers
The counselor lets the teachers know of the adjustments that are in place.
It is the student/families responsibility to let administration know if the
adjustments are not being made.
Future Years
Typically, the student will continue to receive the same adjustments for
following years. The counselor sends out notification to the classroom
teacher of the adjustments prior to the start of the new school year.
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Reading Service
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School has secured the services of a Reading Specialist
from Intermediate Unit 8. Students in need of these services may be self-referred,
teacher-referred, or parent referred. Referrals for this service should be made to the
Counseling Office.
Student Assistance Program
The student assistance program team comprises mental health liaisons, drug and alcohol
liaisons, school administrators, school counselor and teachers. The team helps students
deal with problems that are creating stress, academic problems, or emotional concerns.
The Student Assistance Team utilizes a systematic process to intervene and refer students
to appropriate in-school and/or community services. Student participation in the program
is voluntary and is meant to be a support service for students and families. Parent
permission is required for participation and the privacy and confidentiality of information
is respected. Student Assistance Program services are extended at no cost to the family.
Failure to cooperate will referrals to the Student Assistance Program resulting from
drug/alcohol abuse or habitual academic or behavioral concerns may result in
withdrawal/expulsion from Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
Student Information System/Power School
A student information system is in place through PowerSchool and provides
parents/guardians access online to their student’s academic record. Parents/guardians are
encouraged to frequently access the online program to monitor their student’s academic
progress. PowerSchool can be accessed online via the school’s webpage.
SECTION IV: ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE/ASSESSMENT
CURRICULUM
The Catholic, pre-collegiate, career-focused curriculum at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School is organized to enable each student to grow in all areas of learning –
academic, affective, social, physical, and religious. Formal learning occurs as students
progress sequentially through the goals and objectives of each year’s courses. Informal
learning, equally important in the student’s development, occurs in relation to the entire
atmosphere of the school. School rules regulating class and cafeteria procedures, dress,
assignments, and behavior teach courtesy, self-respect, responsibility and other important
values, The curriculum is intended to provide students with opportunities to learn by
presenting them with basic solid subjects taught by concerned teachers in an atmosphere
permeated by Catholic tradition and values. In taking full advantage of the opportunities
thus provided, students may earn the diploma of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
– a document recognized and honored by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, respected
by colleges and employers, and cherished by many proud alumni of our school.
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Graduation Requirements
To earn a diploma from Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, a student must have
earned at least twenty-eight (28) credits and complete at least twenty-five (25) hours of
Christian service and a retreat during each school year. Delinquent credits must be
completed by September of the year of expected graduation or students forfeit their
diploma. The twenty-eight (28) credits must be earned in the following academic
disciplines:
Unit of Credit
4
4
4
3
3
2
1
5
2
Academic Discipline
Religion
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Arts and Humanities
Health and Physical Education
Career Focus and/or Electives
Additional Science and/or Social Studies
Grading Policy
Purpose
A grading system provides a means to measure student proficiency with respect to the
objectives of the course of study. A grading system provides a means to inform students
and parents of the student’s progress toward achieving the course objectives. A grading
system also provides a degree of uniformity, consistency, and fairness in evaluating
student performance.
Types and Numbers of Assessment
Teachers must use a variety of assessment instruments to determine a student’s mastery
of the objectives of the course of study. These instruments may include but are not
limited to tests, quizzes, homework, reports, projects, papers, labs, journals, diaries,
portfolios, exhibits, performances, interviews, debates, and class participation. Teachers
must use an adequate number of assessments to determine a student’s mastery of the
objectives of the course of study. During a marking period, teachers are required to use a
minimum of nine (9) assessments to determine a student’s mastery of the objectives of
the course of study; at least three (3) of the assessments must be major (of substantial
depth).
Class Participation Grade
Teachers may evaluate students for class participation; however, class
participation grades must not be valued higher than 10% of the marking period
grade.
Extra Credit Grade
Teachers may provide extra work to enable low achieving students who are
making an honest effort earn extra points to achieve a passing grade.
The extra
work must be academic in nature and must be directly related to the course of
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study. Giving extra credit or assigning bonus points for anything else is strictly
prohibited.
Calculating/Recording Marking Period Grades
Grades for all courses must be entered into the grade book (PowerSchool) on a point
basis. The points will be converted to a percent on an ongoing basis (total number of
points earned divided by the total number of possible points). Composite marking period
percent scores of .5 or higher will be rounded to the next whole number. For full-year
(two semester) courses, 50% is the lowest composite percent score that will be issued for
the first three marking periods; the actual earned composite percent score will be issued
for the last marking period. For semester courses, 50% is the lowest composite percent
score that will be issued for the first marking period of the semester; the actual earned
composite percent score will be issued for the last marking period of the semester.
Semester Examinations
Semester exams will be given in all courses. Semester exams must be comprehensive in
nature, covering course content for the entire semester. Students must provide a medical
excuse or an excuse previously approved by the school administration to be absent during
a semester exam. Requests to take semester exams at other than scheduled times will be
handled on an individual basis; however, it should not be assumed that students will be
excused from semester examinations due to vacation or travel plans. Students are
expected to attend school through the scheduled last student day. There will be no
exemption to either first or second semester exams.
Calculation of Final Grades
When calculating the final grade for a full-year (two semester) course, the grade for each
marking period will be valued at 20% of the final grade and the two semester exam
grades will be valued at 10% of the final grade. When calculating the final grade for a
semester course, the grade for each marking period will be valued at 40% of the final
grade and the semester exam grade will be valued at 20% of the final grade.
Grading Scale
94-100
Advanced
A
85-93
Highly Proficient
B
75-84
Proficient
C
74-70
Basic
D
Below 70
Below Basic
F
GPA Conversion Scale:
4.0
3.9
3.8
3.7
3.6
3.5
3.4
100 – 98.67
98.66 – 97.33
97.32 – 96.00
95.99 – 94.67
94.66 – 93.33
93.32 – 92.50
92.49 – 91.70
2.9
2.8
2.7
2.6
2.5
2.4
2.3
88.49 – 87.70
87.69 – 86.90
86.89 – 86.10
86.09 – 85.30
85.29 – 84.50
84.49 – 83.50
83.49 – 82.50
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1.9
1.8
1.7
1.6
1.5
1.4
1.3
79.49 – 78.50
78.49 – 77.50
77.49 – 76.50
76.49 – 75.50
75.49 – 74.50
74.49 – 73.50
73.49 – 72.50
3.3
3.2
3.1
3.0
91.69 – 90.90
90.89 – 90.10
90.09 – 89.30
89.29 – 88.50
2.2 82.49 – 81.50
2.1 81.49 – 80.50
2.0 80.49 – 79.50
1.2 72.49 – 71.50
1.1 71.49 – 70.50
1.0 70.49 – 70.00
Withdrawals
Withdrawal from a course during the first marking period may be permitted as the
discretion of the parents and school administration. At the start of the second marking
period a students may withdraw from a course with the approval of both the parents and
the school administration; however, the withdrawal will be noted on the student’s
transcript as WP (Withdraw Passing) or WF (Withdrawn Failing).
Incomplete Grades
Students who receive an incomplete grade for a marking period must make up the
required work within a two (2) week period. Exceptions may be granted by the school
administration. If the work is not made up during that time, the grade will be recorded as
a “0.” Incomplete grades will not be given at the end of the final grading period without
approval from the school administration.
Make-Up Work
Students with an excused absence (suspensions are included as excused absences) from
class are responsible for all class work, assignments, and test missed during their absence.
Make-up work should be arranged with the teacher on the day of return to class and
should be completed in a reasonable time as determined by the teacher. A grade of “0” is
recorded for any work that is not made-up by the date specified by the teacher. Students
with unexcused absences do not receive credit for any work missed during their absence.
Nonetheless, it is expected that all make-up work will be completed in order for the
learning process to continue.
Report Cards
Formal reports on student progress will be reported to parents on Report Cards, which
will be issued on a quarterly basis. Parents may access their child’s grades on an ongoing
basis by using the Parent Portal of PowerSchool (the school’s electronic grade
recording/reporting system).
Syllabus
Students will receive a syllabus from the teacher for each scheduled course. It is the
student’s responsibility to review and adhere to all pertinent data.
Homework
Students should plan outside class time each day for doing assignments, studying, and
reviewing class work.
Dual Enrollment Policy
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School courses that have been approved by a postsecondary institution for dual enrollment will earn both high school credit and college
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credit. Specific information pertaining to dual enrollment will be distributed at the
beginning of the school year to students enrolled in qualifying courses. It is the student’s
responsibility to check with the college they plan to attend on the transfer/acceptance of
dual enrollment credits.
Early to College Program
During the school year, college bound students may take college credit courses while
completing their senior year at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Students may
take these courses at any accredited four-year college, university, or community college.
This program is available in two formats: (1) Full-time attendance at the four-year
college, university, or community college; or (2) Part-time attendance at a near-by
college while attending Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
To participate in this program the student must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.90,
a minimum combined SAT score of 1900, written approval from the school principal, and
verification of acceptance in an approved program of studies at the four-year college,
university, or community college.
To obtain approval from the school principal, the student must show, to the principal’s
satisfaction, that the college courses her/she plans to take will fulfill the student’s
graduation requirements at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. If the student plans
to attend college on a full-time basis, he/she must provide evidence of full-time status for
each semester of the school year.
Students who are approved for the Early to College Program will pay a prorated tuition at
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. The prorated tuition will be based upon the
number of courses taken at the high school, with a minimum tuition of $2,500. Bishop
Guilfoyle will not provide tuition assistance to any student who participates in the Early
to College Program.
All grades earned in the Early to College Program will be placed on the student’s high
school transcript as Pass/Fail. Students who participate in the program on a full-time
basis will not be included in their senior class rank.
Failures
Students who fail a course during the regular school year are responsible for arranging to
make up the course in summer school. Summer school courses must be approved by the
school administration. Failure in religion classes will necessitate scheduling that class in
subsequent years in place of an elective or completion of an online course that must be
approved by the school administration.
Seniors who fail a required course or a course necessary for attaining the required number
of credits for graduation must make up the course in summer school before receiving a
diploma.
NOTE: Courses offered in summer school are acceptable only as make-up for failed
courses or as enrichment courses. They are not a substitute for a year’s course offered at
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Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. The maximum number of summer school
credits accepted at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is five (5).
Honor Roll
Honor rolls for each marking period are published in the local newspaper after report
cards are issued. High Honor indicates that the student has a quarterly grade point
average of 94% or above with no single grade below 75%. Honor indicates a quarterly
grade point average of 90% or above with no single grade below 75%. These
designations also appear on the report card.
Class Rank
Class rank is determined by an average of all final grades, with a weighted system.
Regular courses have a weight of 1.0, Honor courses have a weight of 1.05, and AP
courses have a weight of 1.10. Class rank is available from the office upon request.
While a student at Bishop Guilfoyle, all course work that is completed on-line, during
summer school, or from outside BG will not be included in GPA or class rank
calculations.
Class rankings are calculated once per year at the beginning of the school year.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Conferences with teachers are formally scheduled for all parents in November. Parents
may also request meetings with teachers and/or administrators at any time to discuss their
child’s development.
Religion Program
The United States Catholic Bishops have pointed out that education programs for young
people must strive to teach doctrine within the experience of Christian community and to
prepare individuals for effective Christian witness and service to others. Our Religion
program, with its emphasis on knowing Jesus through religion classes, loving Jesus
through community prayer and Masses throughout the school year, and serving Jesus
through service to others, strives to follow the direction of the Bishops and is the heart of
the entire education program here at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. It is
intended to be faithful to our Catholic tradition; supportive of parents, the primary
educators of their children in the faith; and supportive of the students’ parishes. Weekly
worship and involvement at their parishes, as noted in the required Memorandum of
Understanding, is expected of all students. The relationship each student has with Jesus
Christ as fostered in the local church community has a direct effect on our school
community.
School Testing Program
Through the Counseling Department, Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School annually
administers a student assessment program. This program includes both aptitude testing
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and college entrance examinations. All students in Grades 7 through 11 are administered
the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT). Test results are shared with the
students individually. Junior students will also take the Armed Services Vocational
Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) which is a multiple-aptitude assessment.
The Edseries tests are given in the spring to all students in Grades 9 and 10.
A high school readiness test is administered to all incoming 9th grade students.
The Counseling Department also provides general information about the availability and
scheduling of college entrance examinations (SAT and ACT) administered at local public
high schools. However, it is the responsibility of the student to select the appropriate test
required for their future, register for the test, and pay the appropriate fee. The School
Identification Code for the SAT is 390050.
International students must provide the Counseling Department with a copy of their
TOEFL test results prior to graduation.
VIRTUAL SCHOOL DAY
Virtual school days will be automatically implemented on weather-related school
cancellations.
GUIDELINES:
Students are required to email their attendance in to their period one teacher by 11:00 am.
The students’ email needs to simply state that they are checking in for the day. Any
student who fails to report their attendance will be marked absent for the day (student
handbook guidelines on attendance will apply to virtual days).
First period teachers are required to submit via email their attendance report to the school
office ([email protected]).
All teachers are required to post via eBackpack an instructional, student-engaged
assignment. Assignments result in a flow of continuity of instruction and require student
accountability such as posts to discussion boards or submitting student work.
Students are required to log into their eBackpack account to access and complete the
posted assignments for each of their scheduled classes. Students must complete and
submit all posted work by 8:00 pm. Students are to email their teachers if they have any
questions or concerns about the posted lesson or assignment. Each teacher will determine
the means for students to submit classwork for the day, i.e. email, eBackpack, discussion
board, etc.
Teachers are required to check their school email during required “office hours” (10:00
am – 5:00 pm) and respond to student questions or concerns about the posted lesson or
assignment.
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SECTION V: STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITY/ACCOUNTABILITY
Philosophy of Discipline
Christian courtesy is to be extended in all circumstances and situations by every person in
the Bishop Guilfoyle community toward every other person. Courtesy springs from a
clear recognition of our dignity as Christian persons expressed in self-respect, respect for
all others, and care for all that God has given us for our use. Therefore, concern for one
another, kindness, mannerly behavior, and care of the school building, property, and
equipment are expected of everyone at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
Teacher and/or administrative disciplinary actions are philosophically designed to change
behavior not to punish.
This document cannot possibly identify every disciplinary situation that may develop at
school. However, for those situations not specifically identified, the material provided in
this document will provide the school administration with a guide for handling such
situations.
Definition of Offenses
Student offenses may result in disciplinary action at the discretion of the school
administration including but limited to demerits, detentions, in-school suspensions, outof-school suspensions, probation, loss of student and privileges.
Abusive/Offensive Language, Gestures, and Materials
Profane, indecent, or vulgar language, gestures, and materials are prohibited at Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Language, gestures, and materials that would be
regarded offensive to a reasonable person are likewise prohibited.
Appearance/ Dress Code Violation
Please refer to the Dress Code in Section II: Policies of this Student Handbook. No
warning will be issued for dress code violations. The first violation will result in after
school detention.
Arson
A student shall not intentionally and/or recklessly place another person in danger of death
or bodily injury by starting a fire or causing an explosion or attempting to do so or
conspiring to do so.
Assault - Physical
Physical assault on another person is unacceptable at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High
School. A student shall commit physical assault if he/she does any of the following:
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Attempts to cause or intentionally, knowingly, and/or recklessly causes bodily
injury to another person.
Negligently causes bodily injury to another person with a weapon, which said
term shall be defined to include, but not be limited to guns, knives, razor blades,
syringes, syringe needle tips, domestic pins and/or needles, sharpened objects
(i.e., pens, pencils, eating utensils (plastic or metal), or any other similar device or
dangerous instrument. Attempts, by physical menace, to put another student in
fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
Assault - Verbal
Profane, obscene, vulgar, or abusive language, gestures, and symbols are forms of verbal
assault against another person. As such, they have no place at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School. Verbal assault includes auditory and/or visual communications and
electronically transmitted messages that are obscene and/or abusive in nature.
Athletic Bags
All athletic bags and all other containers capable of carrying controlled or any
inappropriate material must be stored in the storage room that is located in the
gymnasium entrance hall. These bags and containers are not permitted to be carried
through the school building.
Cell Phones
During the school day, cell phones are not permitted to be carried by students, turned on
or used during the school day. In addition to the disciplinary action specified in the
“Accountability” area of this section of the Student Handbook, cell phones, electronic
games, cameras, and/or electronic devices, other than those issue by the school, that are
in a student’s possession, turned on or used during the school day will be confiscated and
held in the school office for a period of twenty-four hours for the first offense and for a
period of one week for each subsequent offense. In addition, subsequent offenses could
result in a student privilege to enter the building with a cell phone.
Cheating/Academic Integrity
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School students are expected to demonstrate academic
integrity. No student shall intentionally possess, handle or transmit any devices or
maneuvers that could reasonably be construed as being utilized to deceive or defraud the
educational institution. No student shall intentionally assist student(s), nor conspire with
other student(s) to intentionally possess, handle, or transmit any devices or maneuvers
that could reasonably be construed as being utilized to deceive or defraud the educational
institution. No student shall intentionally assist other students(s) nor conspire with other
student(s) to utilize deception, theft, impersonation, copying, or other means of obtaining
improper access to answers or questions in an attempt to falsely represent oneself in a
fraudulent manner or in any way to cheat. By placing their name on and submitting for
credit any assignment, quiz, test, or project, the student is attesting to the fact that all
work on the assignment, quiz, test, or project is their own work and was not copied or
plagiarized. Cheating is both an academic offense and disciplinary offense. Cheating
will result in a mandatory “0” grade on the assignment, quiz, test, or project. Depending
on the situation, the school administration will also assign after-school detention, inschool suspension, or out-of-school suspension to students who cheat; in addition,
students may be referred to the Student Assistance Program.
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Cumulative Offenses
Disciplinary action may move from a lower level to a higher level for repeated violation
of the same regulation or the repeated violation of any combination of regulations.
Damage or Theft of Private Property
A student shall not intentionally damage, attempt to damage, assist in causing damage to
any private property on school premises or off school premises at any school-sponsored
activity. A student shall not steal or attempt to steal any private property on school
premises or off school premises at any school-sponsored activity. A student shall not
receive, retain, or dispose of property knowing that the property was stolen on school
premises or at a school-sponsored activity.
Damage or Theft of School Property
A student shall not intentionally cause, attempt to neither cause, or conspire to cause
damage to school property, shall not steal nor attempt to steal school property, nor
otherwise attempt to deprive the school of said property. No student, without
authorization of the school administration, shall receive, retain, possess, or otherwise
dispose of any property which the student knows or has reason to know belongs to the
school.
In addition to the appropriate disciplinary action as outlined in the
“Accountability” area of this section of the Student Handbook, the student shall be
required to provide restitution for all damages and/or non-recovered property. In
addition, the parents or legal guardians of said student shall be held liable for any and all
damages to school property and/or non-recovered property for which his/her child fails to
provide restitution.
Disrespectful Behavior to School Employees
All personnel at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School are here to assist with providing
students with everything they need to receive a quality education. Students must not be
disrespectful, discourteous, or verbally abusive to anyone in the Bishop Guilfoyle
Catholic High School community.
Disruption of the Educational Process
Students must not distract, disturb, or draw attention away from the educational process.
Students do not have the right to prevent those around them from receiving a quality
education.
Drug & Alcohol Violation
Please refer to the Drug and Alcohol Policy in Section II: Policies of this Student
Handbook.
Extortion
The attempt to secure money from any individual through threat or use of intimidation
and/or violence is inappropriate and unacceptable.
Failure to Comply with Assigned Discipline
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Any student who does not fulfill the conditions of an assigned disciplinary action will be
assigned disciplinary action at the next level of disciplinary consequences.
False Fire Alarm and/or Tampering with Safety Equipment
No student shall willfully, maliciously, or recklessly tamper with fire alarms, security
alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency doors, emergency lights, emergency directional
information, labels, signs, or any other equipment or devices with the intent to deface,
alter, manipulate, or interfere with its intended use.
Fireworks/Explosives
The possession of any form of fireworks and/or explosives is strictly prohibited at Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
Fighting
Fighting is an unacceptable method for resolving conflicts with another person. It is
totally contrary to the values espoused at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. In
cases of a fight, all participants will be equally accountable regardless of who started the
incident. Fighting should not be confused with physical assault. Fighting involves the
active, willful participation of two or more individuals. Physical assault is a unilateral
attack. Retaliation following an assault shall be considered fighting.
Food/Beverages - Halls & Classrooms
Food and beverages of any kind are not permitted in the halls and classrooms during the
school day. Such items are restricted to the school cafeteria.
Gum Chewing
Gum chewing is not permitted anywhere in the school building.
Harassment/Bullying
Harassment/bullying are persistent, unwanted, and annoying behavior, verbal exchanges,
and threats of physical harm. Harassment and bullying are unacceptable behaviors on the
part of any student attending Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Sexual harassment
on the part of any employee, volunteer, or student toward any other employee, volunteer,
or student is a violation of school policy. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome
sexual advances, request for sexual favors, inappropriate verbal comments, or
inappropriate physical conduct. Harassment/bullying will result in a referral to our
Student Assistance Program (SAP).
Hazing
Hazing has no place in the Catholic school experience. It is the antithesis of the purpose
and mission of Catholic education where students are called to grow in their commitment
to God, one another, the Church, and the wider community. Hazing is defined as any
intentional, knowing, or reckless act meant to induce pain, embarrassment, humiliation,
deprivation of rights, or that creates physical or mental discomfort, and is directed against
a student.
Inappropriate Behavior
Inappropriate behaviors are unacceptable behaviors such as dress code violations, gum
chewing, horseplay in the hallways, and misbehavior in any other area of the school.
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Insubordination
Students have an obligation to comply with reasonable requests from school employees.
Any behavior which undermines the authority of school employees in the conduct of
his/her assigned duties will not be tolerated.
Lockers - Maintenance
All students are assigned a locker. The locker is to be used to store textbooks and other
items that the student may be required to bring to school. Students are not permitted to
share lockers with other students. Students are responsible for keeping their lockers clean
and orderly at all times. Locker doors are to be kept closed and secure at all times. Refer
to the Locker Policy in Section II: Policies of this Student Handbook for information
regarding the expectation of privacy and locker searches.
Locker Locks
Students are permitted and encouraged to secure their lockers with school approved locks
which are available in the school office.
Off Limits, Cutting Class, Leaving School Without Permission
“Off Limits” refers to being somewhere in the school where the student is not assigned to
be at that particular time of the day or being in any unauthorized area of the building.
Cutting class refers to any unauthorized absence from class. Student with unauthorized
absence from class will receive a failing grade of 0% on any work missed during the
unauthorized absence from class. Leaving school without permission refers to leaving the
school building without specific authorization from the school administration. Each of
these acts is subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection are inappropriate in the hallways, classrooms, or any area of
the school building and school grounds. Public displays of affection include kissing,
hugging, or inappropriate touching.
Reckless Behavior/Endangerment
Any deliberate, planned activity that has the potential of harming other people or
damaging property.
Reputation of the School
Expectations placed upon members of the Bishop Guilfoyle community during school
hours do not become insignificant or valueless after school. The conduct of Bishop
Guilfoyle students, regardless of where they are, gives an impression to others of their
personal values and the values of their families and school. Students who receive
citations from law enforcement agencies for any type of criminal behavior outside of
school will face appropriate disciplinary action at school. This action, depending on the
particular violation of law, may include suspension from school activities, after-school
detention, Saturday detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, probation,
and/or expulsion. Students who tarnish the reputation of the school or any school
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employee, including comments and/or photographs placed on any form of electronic
media, may be required to forfeit the privilege of attending Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic
High School.
Sexual Activity
Students who willingly engage in sexual activity in school, on school grounds, or at
school-related activities are committing a serious violation of school rules and of
acceptable Christian behavior.
Terroristic Threat
A student shall at no time threaten to commit any crime of violence with the purpose to
terrorize another or to cause the evacuation of a building, place of assembly, or facility of
transportation, or otherwise cause serious public inconvenience in a reckless disregard of
the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. Students who cause a terroristic threat
to the safety of the school community may be required to undergo a psychological
evaluation prior to returning to school.
Tobacco Products and Lighted Objects
The possession and/or use of any tobacco product or lighted objects is prohibited in the
school building, on school transportation, and/or on property owned, leased, or under
control of the school. Violation of this policy will result in a referral to our Student
Assistance Program (SAP).
Tardiness to Class/Scheduled School Activity/School
Students are not to be late to class or to any scheduled school activity without an excuse
that is acceptable to the teacher. Students are not to be late to school without an excuse
that is acceptable to the school administration.
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
A student shall not knowingly possess, handle, or transport any object that can reasonably
be considered as a weapon:
1. On school premises during and immediately before or after school hours.
2. On school premises at any time when the school is being used by a schoolsponsored group, non-curricular-related student group, and/or private non-school
persons.
3. Off school premises at any school activity, function, or event.
4. Off school premises at any time involving violations or possible violation of
Pennsylvania Criminal code, and/or when such conduct or conditions may
directly and/or immediately result in adverse effects on the educational process;
when there is a reasonable need to preserve overall school discipline; when there
is a reasonable need to preserve respect for teachers and other school employees;
and/or when there is reasonableness in the effect, including danger to the health,
safety, welfare, or morals of students within the school system.
Weapons include but are not limited to any firearm, shotgun, rifle; any explosive
including firecrackers, teargas canisters, smoke bombs or other incendiary devices; any
knife, razor, or cutting instrument, cueing tool, numchuck stick, chain, bean shooters,
slingshots; and other dangerous objects, tools, instruments, or implements capable of
directly and/or indirectly inflicting bodily injury and of no reasonable use to a student at
school, or any other device or instrument which, in the manner in which it is used or
44
intended to be used is calculated or likely to produce bodily injury. For safety of persons
and property, possession of lighted objects (flammable) in any area of the school building
is strictly prohibited.
Accountability
Students will be held accountable for unsatisfactory behavior both in school, at school
events, and when representing our school off campus.
The administering of
consequences for unsatisfactory behavior will be done with the intent of changing
behavior, not from a punishment perspective. Our goal is to improve unsatisfactory
behavior. Consequences for violation of acceptable behavior are as follows:
Demerit System
Students will receive a demerit when offenses occur. Demerits will be issued by
individual teachers and administrators for all disciplinary infractions.
Detention
Detention will be used when student behavior warrants keeping students after regularly
scheduled school hours. The date, time, and place of the detention will be determined by
the school administration. Supervision of detention shall be provided by a designated
detention monitor. Detention will take precedence over any school activity in which a
student may be involved.
Parents are responsible for providing transportation for any of their children who are
assigned to detention. Students and parents will be provided at least 24 hours notice
about the assigned detention so the parents can arrange for transportation.
Rules for Detention
1. Students must report to detention on time, with all assignments and supplies.
2. Students will sit in seats assigned by the detention monitor.
3. Student must be engaged in assigned class work or appropriate readings for the entire
detention period; loafing, sleeping, and playing games will not be allowed.
4. All school rules regarding student conduct shall apply during detention period.
5. All school dress code regulations shall apply during detention period.
6. Conduct problems during detention will result in in-school suspension or out-of-school
suspension, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
7. Students who miss an assigned detention for any reason other than a legal absence
from school will be assigned a one day in-school suspension.
8. Detention monitors will maintain attendance records of students assigned to detention.
Loss of Extra-Curricular Participation
Student’s unsatisfactory behavior issues may result in removal from participation in
extra-curricular events including attendance at school sponsored events.
Suspension
The administration may suspend a student from classes and school activities for an
appropriate period of time for serious and/or repeated violation of school policies.
Suspensions are of two types – “In-School Suspension” and “Out-of-School Suspension.”
Students are not re-admitted to classes and activities until a satisfactory solution to the
45
problem that resulted in the suspension is agreed upon by the student, his/her parents, and
the school administration.
In-School Suspension requires that a student spend the school day working in a
designated, isolated, supervised area of the school for the length of the suspension. InSchool Suspension may range over a period of one to three school days, depending upon
the seriousness of the offense. Students are required to make up all class work,
assignments, and tests that are issued during the period of their In-School Suspension.
Students are not permitted to participate in and/or attend any school-related activities on
the days of their In-School Suspension.
Out-of-School Suspension requires that a student not be admitted to school for the length
of the suspension. Out-of-School Suspension may range over a period of one to ten
school days, depending on the seriousness of the offense. Students are required to make
up all class work, assignments, and tests that are issued during the period of their Out-ofSchool Suspension. Students are not permitted to participate in and/or attend any schoolrelated activities on the days of their In-School Suspension.
Suspensions involve three steps:
1. The school administration will designate the suspension as In-School or Out-ofSchool.
2. The school administration will notify the student and his/her parents or guardians
of the suspension.
3. The student and his/her parents/guardians are required to meet with the school
administration before the student returns to school for any Out-of-School
Suspension that is greater than three days in length.
4. All suspensions include non-participation in and non-attendance at all school
activities that are held during the period of the suspension.
Guidelines for In-School Suspension
In-school suspension will be used when student behavior warrants removal of a student
from regular classes. During in-school suspension the student will work in the confines
of the in-school suspension room, isolated as much as possible from the regular school
population, under the direction of an in-school monitor.
The date of the in-school suspension shall be determine by the school administration. Inschool suspension will take precedence over any school activity in which a student may
be involved.
Teachers will be notified when students from their classes are assigned to in-school
suspension. Teachers will provide assignments of adequate length, tests, and/or
assignments that will be completed by their student while those students are in in-school
suspension. Teacher will send the assignments, tests, and/or other assessments to the
main office by 7:50 A.M. on the assigned date of the in-school suspension. All work sent
to the main office must include the subject, teacher’s name, and student’s name.
The student assigned to in-school suspension is responsible to returning all completed
assignments to their subject teachers unless directed by the teacher to submit completed
work to the in-school monitor in which case the monitor will return the assignment to the
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main office at the end of the day and the office staff will place the assignment in the
appropriate teacher’s mail box.
Rules for In-School Suspension
1. Students who are tardy to school without a legal excuse on the day of their assigned
in-school suspension will be assigned an additional half-day of in-school suspension.
Students who are tardy with a legal excuse and students who are excused early will
make-up all missed time.
2. Students who are legally absent from school on the day of an assigned in-school
suspension will make-up the in-school suspension on the next available day.
3. Students must report to in-school suspension on time, with all necessary supplies.
4. Students will sit in seats assigned by the in-school monitor.
5. Students must be engaged in assigned class work or appropriate readings for the entire
period; loafing, sleeping, and playing games will not be allowed.
6. All school rules regarding student conduct shall apply during the in-school suspension
period.
7. All dress code regulations shall apply during the in-school suspension period.
8. Conduct problems in in-school suspension will result in out-of-school suspension.
The number of days of out-of-school suspension will be determined by the severity of
the misconduct.
9. Students shall not leave the in-school suspension except under the direction of a
member of the school staff.
10. Lunch may be purchased in the cafeteria on days of in-school suspension; however,
the in-school suspension monitor will accompany students to the cafeteria to purchase
their lunch. Lunch must be eaten in the in-school suspension room.
11. In-school suspension monitors will maintain attendance records of students assigned to
in-school suspension.
Summer Detention and Summer Suspension
When a disciplinary offense occurs so near the end of the scheduled school year that
regular consequences cannot be fulfilled, the consequence will be fulfilled as a summer
detention or summer suspension. The rules and regulations that govern school year
detention and school year suspension will govern summer detention and summer
suspension. Report cards, transcripts, and diplomas will be held until the assigned
summer detention or summer suspension is fulfilled. In addition, if the assigned summer
detention is not fulfilled, the consequence will be carried forward to the next school year
as an in-school suspension. If the assigned summer suspension is not fulfilled, the
consequence will be carried forward to the next school year as an out-of-school
suspension.
Faculty Discipline Council
The Faculty Discipline Council is comprised of three to five teachers appointed by the
principal. Based upon the nature of the disciplinary offense(s), the school administration
may refer students with any disciplinary infraction or any combination of infractions to
the Faculty Discipline Council. The student’s parents or guardians are required to attend
the meeting. Based upon their findings, the Council will make recommendations to the
school administration regarding the resolution of the student’s continued disciplinary
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problems. The recommendation could include counseling, referral to the Student
Assistance Program, suspension, probation, or expulsion.
Probation
Students may be placed on formal probation by the school administration when serious
misconduct warrants such a measure. A specified period of time will be set for the
student to show definite cooperation and improvement. Parents and the student may meet
with the administration. The purpose of the probation period is to give the student a
chance to correct misconduct before the very serious disciplinary action of expulsion
would become necessary. Probation may involve after-school detentions for a time set by
the administration, suspensions, loss of student privileges, exclusion from school-related
activities and programs, and/or referral to the Student Assistance Program (SAP).
Expulsion
Expelling a student from school is always a last resort. Expulsion is invoked when a
student’s attitude and behavior are such that the student has forfeited the privilege of
continuing as a student at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. The school
administration maintains the sole discretion in determining whether a student will
continue enrollment at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
Discipline Record
Pennsylvania law, Section 1 307-A of the Safe Schools Act 26, states, “All school entities
and private schools within this Commonwealth shall maintain updated records of all
incidents of violence, incidents involving possession of a weapon, and convictions or
adjudication of delinquency for acts committed on school property by students enrolled
therein.”
Section 1 305A states, “Whenever a pupil transfers to another school entity, a certified
copy of the student’s disciplinary record (all incidents of violence, incidents involving
possession of a weapon, and convictions or adjudication of delinquency for acts
committed on school property) shall be transmitted to the school entity to which the pupil
has transferred. The school entity to which the student has transferred should request the
record. The sending school entity shall have ten (10) days from receipt of the request to
supply a certified copy of the student’s disciplinary record. Permission of the parent,
guardian, or other person having control or charge of the student shall not be required for
transfer of this individual’s student record to another school entity within this
commonwealth or in another state in which the student seeks enrollment or is enrolled.”
Consequences for Disciplinary Offenses
Level I Offenses & Consequences
Offenses:
Appearance/Dress Code Violation
Cell Phone, Electronic Games, Cameras, Other Electronic Devices
Disruption of the Educational Process
Food/Beverages - Halls & Classrooms
Gum Chewing
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Inappropriate Behavior
Lockers - Maintenance
Public Displays of Affection
Tardiness to Class or Scheduled School Activity
Tardiness to School
Consequences:
Demerit filed with the school administration, and/or
After-School Detention, and
Notice to parents, and/or meeting with the Faculty Discipline Council
Additional consequences based upon the particular offense:
Withdrawal of privileges
Confiscation of material
Referral for counseling
Referral to Student Assistance Program
Level II Offenses & Consequences
Offenses:
Continuation of Level I Offenses
Abusive/Offensive Language, Gesture, Material
Assault - Verbal to Another Student
Damage or Theft of Private Property
Harassment/Bullying
Hazing
Off Limits, Cutting Class, Leaving School Without Permission
Tobacco Products and Lighted Products
Consequences:
Demerit filed with the school administration, and
In-School Suspension, and
Suspension from school-related activities
Notice to parents, and/or
Meeting with Faculty Discipline Council
Additional consequences based upon the particular offense:
Withdrawal of privileges
Confiscation of material
Referral for counseling
Referral to Student Assistance Program
Restitution for damages
Referral to law enforcement officials
Level III Offenses & Consequences
Offenses:
Continuation of Level II Offenses
Assault - Physical to Another Student
Assault - Verbal to a School Employee
Damage or Theft of School Property
Disrespectful Behavior to School Employees
Extortion
False Fire Alarm and/or Tampering with Safety Equipment or Devices
Fire Works/Explosives - Possession
Fighting
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Insubordination
Reckless Behavior/Endangerment
Consequences:
Demerit filed with the school administration, and
Out-of-School Suspension, and
Suspension from school-related activities, and
Notice to parents, and/or meeting with the Faculty Discipline Council, and
Psychological evaluation or school safety evaluation, and
Report filed with authorities, i.e. police department
Additional consequences based upon the particular offense:
Withdrawal of privileges
Confiscation of material
Referral for counseling
Referral to Student Assistance Program
Restitution for damages
Referral to law enforcement officials
Level IV Offenses & Consequences
Offenses:
Continuation of Level III Offenses
Arson
Assault - Physical of Staff
Sexual Activity
Terroristic Threat
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
Consequences:
Demerit filed with the school administration, and
Ongoing Out-of-School Suspension, and
Suspension from school-related activities, and
Psychological evaluation or school safety evaluation, and
Report filed with authorities, i.e. police department, and
Recommendation for Expulsion, and
Notice to parents, and/or meeting with the Faculty Discipline Council
Additional consequences based upon the particular offense:
Confiscation of materials
Referral for counseling
Restitution for damages
Referral to law enforcement officials
SECTION VI: DAILY OPERATING PROCEDURES
Traffic Flow – Start & End of Day
To help alleviate traffic congestion and to better assure student safety at the start and end
of the school day, the following traffic flow patterns are instituted for all vehicles
entering and leaving school grounds between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM and 2:15 PM – 2:45
PM:
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1.
School buses will enter school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue, drive
toward the gymnasium entrance, drop off students, loop around, and exit
school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue.
2. Family members and friends who are dropping students off at school will
enter school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue, drive toward the gymnasium
entrance, drop off students, exit school grounds by way of Pleasant Valley
Boulevard.
3. Students who drive to school will enter school grounds by way of Hudson
Avenue and park in their assigned parking spaces. At the end of the school
day, all student drivers will leave school grounds by way of Hudson Avenue.
Arrival at School
Students arriving prior to 7:45 AM are to report to the cafeteria and be seated in an
orderly manner. At 7:45 AM students are permitted to enter the classroom section, go to
their lockers, see teachers if necessary, and report to Period 1 class by 7:53 AM.
All students must report to school in uniform. Students must immediately enter the school
building upon arrival on school property. Students are not permitted to bring open
beverages into the school building. Students’ cell phones must be turned off prior to
entering the school building.
All athletic storage bags are to be placed in the storage room that is located in the
gymnasium entrance hall. Students will not be able to pick up their storage bags until the
end of the school day.
Official Start of School
The official start of school is 7:53 AM daily with students required to be in the assigned
first period class by that time. Period One is forty-seven (47) minutes in length to
accommodate attendance, announcements, and a forty-two (42) minute instructional class
period.
Announcements
Daily announcements are made by the PA system and/or BGTV.
announcements must be approved before they are read.
All student
Attendance
Students are required to attend each scheduled class daily. They are to report to class on
time and remain the full period unless excused by a hall pass signed by the teacher.
Attendance is taken and recorded by the teacher for each period of the day.
Homeroom
Each student is assigned a homeroom. Homeroom assignments by grade level are
determined by the total number of earned credits. Students earning less than 7 academic
credits will be assigned to ninth grade homerooms. Students earning 7 to 13 academic
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credits will be assigned to tenth grade homerooms. Students earning 14- 20 academic
credits will be assigned to eleventh grade homerooms. Students earning more than 21
academic credits will be assigned to twelfth grade homerooms. Homeroom periods are
scheduled as needed throughout the school year, usually on Thursdays, for the
dissemination and collection of pertinent information.
Class Periods
Each regular full day contains eight (8) forty-two (42) minute instructional class periods.
Locker Visits
Students may go to lockers between class periods and before and after school; however, it
is the student’s responsibility to be at all classes on time.
Hall Passes
Students who wish to leave class for any reason may do so only with the permission of
the classroom teacher and with an authorized school hall pass.
Lunch
All students have an assigned lunch period and are responsible for reporting to and from
lunch on time. Behavior in the cafeteria is expected to be appropriate and within
acceptable school decorum.
Class Change
Class changes are to be an orderly, courteous process with students walking on the right
side of hallways and stairways.
End of Day
The regular school day officially ends at 2:28 PM.
Departure from School
Students are expected to depart in an orderly manner. Busses depart relatively quickly
(by 2:35 PM); thus riders cannot linger. All students should be out of the school building
and off school property by 2:45 PM unless under the direct supervision of a teacher,
advisor or coach. All students must leave the school in uniform.
After School Supervision
Students waiting for after-school sports practices or other authorized meetings must
report to where adult supervision is provided. Students who prefer to leave the school
must depart the school and school grounds by 2:45 PM. Students who leave at 2:45 PM
may not return to the school or school grounds until the scheduled time of practices.
Supervision of the Student Union area lasts until 4:00 PM.
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Athletic/Extra-Curricular Activities
Students participating in athletic or extra-curricular activities, practices, or events are to
report to their respective assigned meeting location promptly and must remain under the
supervision of the advisor or coach.
SECTION VII: CO-CURRICULAR/EXTRA-CURRICULAR
Organizations
Extracurricular groups at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School include Student
Council, Forensics, Football, Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Boys’ and Girls’ Volleyball,
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Gymnastics, Hockey, Cross Country, Track,
Cheerleading, Class Officers, Chorus, Forensic Team, National Honor Society, SADD,
Mission Club, Fencing Team, Drama Club, Spanish Club, PA Junior Academy of
Science, Penn State Math Competition, Peer Ministry, Mock Trial, Scholastic Team,
Strategy Club, Co-op Swimming and Wrestling, and other organizations recognized by
the Principal.
Officers: Each of the four classes and the student council elects four officers –
President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer – for the proper order of class
business. A student elected as president of student council may not serve as
president of the class due to the workload associated with this specific leadership
positon. This student leadership, in conjunction with a faculty moderator,
oversees particular class projects. Other organizations in the school may also
have officers according to the needs and purposes of the group. Officers of
classes and organizations are expected to exert leadership, promote spirit, and
display exemplary conduct. Conduct unbecoming to a Bishop Guilfoyle student
may lead to removal from office.
Moderators: Each class and each organization has a faculty moderator who is
responsible for the activities of that group. The moderator works with the officers
and student representatives to hold meetings and plan and conduct activities. No
class or organization activity may take place without the presence and supervision
of the moderator.
Dances and Games
Students who wish to attend dances and athletic events pay nominal fees on a per event
basis. Students must comply with appropriate dress code policies for dances and games;
inappropriate dress will result in a student’s removal from the event. The official school
ID card is required.
Semi-formal or formal dance dress code:
GIRLS' ATTIRE
 Dresses are not to be shorter than mid-thigh (4” above the knee)
 No visible cleavage of any degree; straight or slight v-cut across the top
 Slits in skirts may not be higher than mid-thigh (4” above the knee)
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


Backless dresses must not go below the natural waistline
No visible midriff of any degree (2-piece dresses MUST overlap all around
body)
No see-through clothing
BOYS' ATTIRE
 Dress suits or tuxedos are required (Prom)
 Dress shirts and ties are required
National Honor Society
In October of each school year, junior and senior students who meet the minimum
academic criterion of a 94% cumulative grade point average are informed of their
eligibility for nomination to the National Honor Society. These students are given the
opportunity to submit an application sheet by the date specified in their invitation letter.
The completed forms are reviewed by a five-member faculty committee appointed by the
principal. The written data submitted by each student are reviewed and evaluated for the
criteria of Leadership, Service, and Character.
All faculty members are invited to make comments concerning National Honor Society
candidates. These comments are considered in the selection of members. However, the
five appointed members of the faculty committee make the actual selection. The faculty
committee reviews each application carefully. Candidates receiving a majority vote of
the committee members will be inducted into the National Honor Society. Students who
are selected for membership are notified by letter of the time and place of their induction.
Selection to the National Honor Society is a difficult and subjective evaluation. There
are no appeals to this process. Academic eligibility and completion of the application
process do not guarantee admission.
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School National Honor Society will abide by all
regulations established by the National Association of Elementary and Secondary
Principals.
Yearbook
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School publishes The Accolade annually. Cost is
announced when student orders are taken. Students interested in assisting in the
development of the yearbook should contact the moderator.
Academic Requirements for High School Students Who Plan to Participate
in College Athletics
Students who plan to participate in athletics when they attend college should note that the
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) maintains very rigorous academic
standards for potential college athletes. To be eligible to participate in college level
athletics, students must successfully complete specific “college preparatory” courses of
study while in high school. Potential college athletes should contact the school guidance
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counselor to ensure they are enrolled in appropriate “college preparatory” courses of
study.
SECTION VIII: FINANCES
Payment Policy for the 2015-2016 School Year
The cost of tuition and fees and the policy governing payment of all school accounts at
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School are as follows:
1. The per pupil cost of education is off-set through contributions received from the
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, the Board of Trustees, alumni, friends, and
fundraising (development) activities.
2. Financial aid is available to help qualified families cover cost of the tuition.
Financial aid is based upon the financial need of the individual family as well as
the amount of money that is available to the school for tuition assistance.
3. The financial need of the respective family is determined by an independent
agency that is contracted by Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School to determine
that need. Financial need is based upon information the respective family
provides and submits on a confidential application. Copies of the application
form can be obtained at the school office or on line.
4. The financial aid that is provided by the Diocese of Altoona- Johnstown is
restricted to members of the parishes of the Diocese. The financial aid that is
provided through other sources is available to all qualified families.
5. To receive financial aid from the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, families must
complete and submit to the school office a Memorandum of Understanding that is
signed by the pastor of their parish.
6. All students will pay a non-refundable annual registration fee.
7. Each family with students attending Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School will
pay an annual technology fee.
8. Students who choose not to participate in the school’s annual fundraising project
will pay a non-participation fee.
9. Students who participate in interscholastic athletics will pay a fee that is
established by the Athletic Department.
10. Confession of Judgment: Families that become delinquent with respect to any
payments to Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School hereby agree to enter into a
written contractual agreement to address that delinquency. The terms and
conditions of the agreement must be accepted and approved by the school
administration. The agreement will contain “confession of judgment” language
that will allow the school administration to obtain a legal judgment against the
parents/guardians for any balance due if the parents/guardians fail to comply with
the terms of the agreement.
11. Students will be ineligible to participate in any and all school-related activities if
their financial account is sixty (60) or more days delinquent. Exceptions may be
granted provided prior arrangements are made with and approved by the school
administration.
12. At the ninety (90) day of delinquency a full confession of judgment may be
exercised by the school administration. Exceptions may be granted provided prior
arrangements are made with and approved by the school administration.
13. Ordinarily, in cases of expulsion or voluntary withdrawal from school, refunds of
pre-paid tuition will be prorated. Student fees are not refundable.
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14. Foreign Exchange students may be required to pay a non-refundable deposit.
Advanced Placement Classes
Students choosing Advanced Placement courses may purchase the required texts from
former students, online, or at any bookstore. Students wishing to order through the
school must make such request in the spring of the school year preceding their taking the
courses. Books ordered through the school must be paid for by the first day of classes.
Students are required to take the AP exam for AP course(s) and must pay the test fees
levied by the College Board. On the school day of a scheduled AP exam, students taking
the AP exam will be excused from their regularly scheduled classes during the scheduled
testing period. Students are required to dress in school uniform. The AP exam will not
serve as the course final exam, therefore students are also required to take the classroom
final exam.
Class Dues
Eleventh grade students are required to pay class dues. This money is used to sponsor
special events such as the prom and senior banquet. Class dues are considered a fee due
to the school and are subject to the school’s non-payment policy.
Fundraising
Students are required to participate in the annual school fundraising project. Students
have the choice of paying a non-participation fee as an option to participating in the
fundraising project. Students who do not sell their entire quota or pay the nonparticipation fee will be billed the difference by the school. The billing will be
considered a fee due to the school and is subject to the school’s non-payment policy.
Funds: All class, organization, and activity funds are deposited daily in the
Student Activity Account. A class or organization wishing to make a purchase,
donation, or contract with any agency for service or merchandise must have the
approval of its sponsor. Purchases must be made through the school Purchase
Order system, which provides that all purchases of any nature whatsoever which
obligate the high school are made through a purchase order signed by the
principal and/or business manager. No purchase may be made without a purchase
order. All money transactions are done through the business office. Bills will be
paid by check through the business office. Individual organizations are
responsible for keeping accurate records of all deposits and purchases, under the
supervision of the moderator. Moderators are responsible for overseeing and
accounting to the business office for all funds of the group(s) under their
supervision.
Graduation Fee
Seniors are charged a graduation fee. The fee covers the cost of their cap and gown and
other graduation expenses. Seniors will be required to pay this fee in order to participate
in graduation ceremonies.
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ID Cards
All students are required to have a school ID card.
Insurance
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School maintains a group accident insurance policy. A
time limit exists for filing claims; therefore, any accident should be reported to the
instructor in charge or to the school office immediately or as soon as possible. Claim
forms are available from the school office.
Locks for Lockers
Locks for school lockers are encouraged. Any lock used on any school locker must be
purchased through the school.
Parking Permits
The annual fee for a parking permit is $75.00/full year or $50.00/2nd semester.
Physical Education
Students are required to purchase a Physical Education uniform from the Ravine, located
in Altoona, PA. Students are required to purchase from the school lock for their gym
locker.
Report Cards
Computerized report cards are issued each nine weeks.
Schedule Changes
Schedule changes may be requested until the second Friday after the first day of the
2015-2016 school year. Schedule changes must be requested in writing using the
scheduling change form located in the main office and/or counseling office. The form
must be completely filled out, including a parent signature prior to submitting it to the
counseling office. Student schedule changes are reviewed by the counselor to see if they
are feasible. Students may be denied for the following reasons but not limited to: course
availability, class size, teacher acceptance, prerequisites, and the students’ transcript of
grades.
Shaving Fee
Students will be issued a $5.00 fine each time they are sent to the office to shave.
Technology Fee
A technology fee per family is required for each school year.
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Test Fees
All students in Grades 7 through 11 are administered the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude
Test. Students are charged the required test fee.
Textbooks
Textbooks for most courses are provided by the school at no cost. Students are
responsible for the care of all textbooks and materials issued to them. Book covers are
available and must be used on all books. Lost or damaged books will be charged to the
student’s account. Parents/guardians are required to sign the loan of textbooks and
instructional materials paperwork in accordance with the Pennsylvania School Code of
1949 for any child(ren) attending Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.
Transcripts
An official transcript is sent directly to the school or agency requesting it. Official
transcripts are not issued to students or parents. Unofficial transcripts can be issued if
necessary. A $25.00 fee will be issued for the first five transcripts; each additional
transcript will cost $5.00. Transcripts are not issued if the student’s financial obligations
to the school have not been satisfied.
SECTION IX: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Parents/Guardians and students must sign and return to the school the
provided acknowledgement that they have read and agree to be governed by
the policies and regulations of this handbook. Students who do not have a
signed acknowledgement on file in the school office will be ineligible for
school events and activities.
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