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St. Michael the Archangel School
130 Levittown Parkway
215-943-0222
STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK
This handbook contains certain policies and
procedures of St. Michael the Archangel School.
The School may change any of its policies and
procedures and apply them as circumstances
dictate. If you have a question about a
particular policy or procedure, please contact
the Principal.
STUDENTS AND PARENTS MUST ACCEPT AND
ABIDE BY THE SCHOOL’S POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES IN ORDER FOR THE STUDENT
TO ATTEND THE SCHOOL.
ADMINISTRATION
Reverend Michael DiIorio, Pastor
Miss Susan Gallagher, Principal
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
School: 215-943-0222
Absentee Call-in: 215-943-5035
Rectory: 215-945-1166
Religious Education Office: 215-547-2815
MISSSION STATEMENT
We, the faculty of St. Michael the Archangel School,
affirm our commitment to Catholic education. We
believe that parents are the primary educators of
their children and together, with them, we accept
the responsibility to foster the growth and
development of the whole child. As educators,
it is our hope and desire to guide the spiritual,
intellectual, personal, social, and physical growth
of our students so as to enable them to lead lives
of Service to God and to their neighbor.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
Preparation for Class
The student is responsible for completing all class assignments and homework on time. Failure to do so indicates a lack of serious preparation for class. Incomplete assignments will affect the student’s effort grade on the report card.
Daily performance of students is assessed by the teacher. Examination of copybooks and worksheets for neatness and completion and class participation are part of the overall report card grade.
Students are expected to use copybooks properly. Students should not tear pages from copybooks, skip pages, or draw in the copybook.
Class Participation
Students are expected to:
~ give attention and respect to the teacher and each other at all times
~ show a willingness to share and take turns
~ actively participate in class both orally and in writing
Homework
Homework is an assignment made by a teacher that will reinforce a concept presented in class. It includes both written and study assignments, and should be done by the student independently. While this does not preclude parental help, assignments should not require undue parental assistance or supervision. Ample time should be allowed for the completion of assignments.
The following time per night is suggested for homework, both written and study assignments:
Grades 1 and 2 30 minutes
Grades 3 and 4 60 minutes
Grades 5 and 6 90 minutes
Grades 7 and 8 120 minutes
The school realizes that teachers, students, and subjects vary. The objective is not time, but extension of learning.
In the event of absence or suspension, all homework and missed assignments are to be made up.
If a student is absent, parents may call the office for homework before 11:00AM. Work may be picked up outside the main office at 2:00PM.
Progress Reports
Progress reports are sent home midway through each trimester. Learning not only cultivates intellectual skills, but also responsibility; each student will receive a progress report during each trimester.
Promotion or Retention
Student progress is monitored throughout the school year. At the end of the second trimester, the teacher will contact the parent/guardian of a student who continues to experience difficulty, to discuss the possibility of retention or support services. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled by the end of May. If retention is indicated, the parent/guardian will receive an official notification.
Promotion or retention is at the discretion of the Principal with the consultation of the teacher.
Report Cards
Report cards are issued three times a year to students in Grades 1 through 8.
Each student is responsible for his/her own report card grade by satisfactorily fulfilling the following requirements:
~ major tests and quizzes
~ oral and written reports
~ independent classroom work
~ active participation in classroom lessons and activities
~ class/individual projects
Standardized Testing
The Terra Nova Test is administered each year to students in Grades K - 8. The results are communicated to parents and are utilized by the school for curriculum planning.
Test Grades
In order to be aware of the academic progress of the child all tests should be signed by the parents and returned to school promptly.
Graduation
Eighth grade students who have completed the prescribed course of study and maintained a suitable discipline record are eligible for graduation if all financial obligations have been met. Procedures for graduation are determined by the Administration and the eighth grade teachers.
Closing Exercises
Participation in closing exercises is a privilege, not a right. The School has the right to deny any student from participating in closing exercises if, in the view of the School, the student’s conduct or academic or disciplinary record indicates that the privilege should not be extended.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Discipline Code
We believe that discipline is fundamental to life. Discipline is a necessary reflection of the Philosophy of a Catholic School, which attempts to develop a fully committed Christian - a Christian committed to the observance of just rules and regulations, which will assist the individual in responding to his/her responsibilities to himself/herself and others.
Correct training in discipline means that a child learns to accept rules and regulations presented by lawful authority. Students are expected to act in a way that their behavior will reflect favorably on themselves and the school. They are expected to show consideration and respect for all, thus creating a harmonious atmosphere within the school. All students must recognize their individual responsibilities and obligations and fulfill them in accordance with school regulations. Children who fail to comply with school policies and rules must accept the consequences.
The discipline code applies to students and parents/guardians both in school and at school-sponsored events, in the school/parish community and outside the school/parish community where the behavior is contrary to Catholic teachings or could bring disrepute or embarrassment to the School.
Teachers at each grade level determine appropriate discipline policies with the approval of the Administration. Teachers inform parents of these policies at the beginning of the school year. Any teacher who detains a child after school will send prior notification of the detention.
Harassment
The School follows the Philadelphia Archdiocesan Policy prohibiting harassment, including sexual harassment. Sexual Harassment refers to any unwelcome sexual attention, sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Sexual harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Any student or parent/guardian who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including dismissal of the student. A complete copy of the policy is maintained by the Principal and is available upon request.
Violent/Threatening/Harassing and Inappropriate Conduct
It is the intent of the school to provide an educational environment free from all forms of improper threats, intimidation, hostility and offensive and inappropriate behavior. Such improper conduct may take the form of unwanted verbal or physical conduct, verbal or written derogatory or discriminatory statements, and behavior not conducive to the educational and religious mission of the school. Unacceptable conduct - either by a student or a parent/guardian - includes, but is not limited to the following:
a. disrespectful behavior of any kind toward or about any staff, student, volunteer or
parent;
b. insubordination;
c. fighting;
d. bomb scares or triggering other false alarms;
e. cheating or plagiarism;
f. use or possession of drugs or alcohol;
g. smoking;
h. stealing;
i. intimidation, harassment or threats of and kind; and
j. possessing any weapon.
These categories do not cover every possible situation. The school will determine which behavior is inappropriate.
This policy applies both in and out of the classroom, in the school community and outside the school community, where the behavior is contrary to Catholic teachings or could bring disrepute or embarrassment to the School.
Conduct by students or parents/guardians, or anyone acting on their behalf, incompatible with the educational and religious mission of the school is grounds for disciplinary action, including but not limited to, the immediate dismissal of the student and reporting the incident to the appropriate legal authorities where appropriate.
In addition, in the case of threats of violence or harassment, in any form, including oral, written or electronic, by a student against a member of the school community, the student, if suspended but not dismissed, may be required to have psychological or psychiatric clearance before returning to school.
Serious infractions may result in an immediate suspension or dismissal and apply when the students are on campus, on a bus, or at a school-sponsored function. Examples of serious infractions include the following:
a. truancy - unexcused absences.
b. violent behavior - any fighting of behavior that causes physical injury.
c. blatant disrespect for authority - to any adult in the building.
d. possessions or use of drugs, narcotics, tobacco or alcoholic beverages on
campus or on the bus.
e. irreverence.
f. vandalism - destruction or defacing of parish or school property.
g. profane/obscene language or gestures or engaging in immoral conduct.
h. possession of any item that may present a danger to others in school or out.
i. cutting class
j. leaving campus without permission from a school authority.
Bullying Policy
Bullying is commonly defined as intentional, repeated hurtful acts, words or other behavior, such as name-calling, threatening, and/or shunning by one or more individuals against another. Bullying involves an imbalance of power; intent to harm; and frequently a threat of further aggression. Bullying happens when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving someone out on purpose.
Bullying can be pushing, shoving, hitting or spitting, as well as name-calling, picking-on, making fun of, laughing at, or excluding someone. Bullying is never justified.
Cyber bullying is unacceptable. Cyber bullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, or threatening another student or adult by sending or posting inappropriate or derogatory email messages, instant messages, pictures or images.
Response to bullying may include:
- verbal warning
-removal from class or activity
- verbal or written apology to the victim
- a parent-teacher conference
- conference with the principal
- detention
- suspension from school
Procedures for Conduct Referrals
When a student receives a conduct referral, the parent/guardian must sign it on the night issued. It must be returned to school the following day. The signature indicates that the parent/guardian has seen the referral. It does not indicate permission for the student to receive the referral. The teacher issuing the referral and the principal have already made that decision.
Suspensions
Just, appropriate disciplinary policies are essential processes, which include procedures, that are more remedial than punitive, yet include the necessary provisions that protect the common good of the school community.
Suspension may lead to dismissal. The principal will inform the parents/guardians of the seriousness of suspension and seek their immediate cooperation in a corrective program designed to resolve the student’s problem, if possible.
Procedures for student suspension:
- Infractions of a serious nature are determined by the school.
Parents/Guardians of the student will be informed in writing of the suspension as soon as possible.
- Suspensions, in-school or out of school, will be implemented at the discretion
of the Principal. Following suspension, parents/guardians will be interviewed by the appropriate school official.
- Students removed from the school community will not be readmitted before a
parental interview has been conducted and other conditions have been satisfied.
- Parents and student must sign a formal agreement signifying their understanding and agree to assume responsibility for future behavior.
- Where possible, a student will be referred for counseling.
- Signed agreement and a written report will be filed in the student’s record.
Dismissal
After two formal suspensions, a student may be dismissed. Students who are dismissed may apply for readmission after one full year. The School will determine whether readmittance is appropriate. In certain instances the infraction may warrant immediate dismissal. The School reserves the right to dismiss any student at any time where the School considers the conduct of the student or parent/guardian to be inconsistent with the School policy, the good of the School Community or Catholic teachings. Parents/Guardians of the student will be informed of the dismissal as soon as possible.
ADMISSIONS
Our school admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to its students. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, its admission policy, or in any school-administered program.
The School endeavors to accommodate students with special needs, as the School’s resources and capabilities reasonably permit. The School reserves the right to decline admission or impose reasonable conditions of attendance where indicated under the circumstances.
To be admitted to first grade a student must be six by September 1 of the current year. For admission to Kindergarten, a child must be five by September 1. For admission to Pre-Kindergarten, a child must be four by September 1. The documents that must be presented at the time of admission are: Birth Certificate, Baptismal Certificate (regardless of parish), current and updated certificate of immunization.
Registration
Registration for Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and other students new to St. Michael the Archangel School takes place in February or March. Registration information is communicated through the school communication envelope, the school website and the parish bulletin.
Letter of Intent
Families registered in our school are required to sign a Letter of Intent annually. Information for the following year is mailed to each family in March or April. Tuition fees and non-refundable re-registration fees are published in the Parish Bulletin. All financial obligations must be current before re-registration can be processed.
Admission of Non-Catholics
Our school serves a variety of purposes, including the academic, social and physical development of the students. However, the primary purpose of our school is religious. We exist for the purpose of evangelization and catechesis; the proclamation of the Gospel and formation of the community of Faith. Our school offers a complete Catholic religious education program and makes every effort to develop the Faith in all the students so that they may live a life full of Christian love.
Non-Catholic students may be admitted to our school under the following conditions:
- The permission of the Pastor is obtained.
- Adequate facilities and space are available, without denying the admission of
eligible Catholic students.
- The parents/guardians agree in writing to permit their children to attend Religion
classes and Religious functions that are part of the school program.
- The parents/guardians commit themselves in writing to accept and to promote the
philosophy, goals, objectives, and regulations of our school.
- The parents/guardians agree in writing to assume responsibility for all financial
obligations.
Attendance
Regular school attendance impacts positively on the child’s academic development. The total amount of days that the school is in session is prescribed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
A. Absences
i. A student who has been absent from school, even for one day, must bring a
written note to the teacher.
ii. A doctor’s certificate may be required for an extended absence (3 days).
iii. If a child is going to be absent or arrive late at school, a parent must call
school. Please leave a message. The number to call is in the front of the
handbook. Please call by 9:00AM. If your child’s name appears on an
attendance report and you have not phoned in to let us know, please expect
a call from the school to verify the absence.
iv. In the case of illness, a school official will contact the parent or designated
adult whose number has been submitted to the office for emergency use.
v. Any child who stays home without his/her parent’s knowledge is liable for
suspension. Any child who leaves school without permission is liable for
suspension.
vi. It is the responsibility of the student to complete work and tests that have
been missed due to absence.
B. General Supervision of School Grounds
The school grounds are supervised during school hours, from arrival time until dismissal time, when school is in session. There will be supervision in connection with school-sponsored activities, such as, extracurricular events. Parents/guardians are responsible for insuring that they and their children are not on the premises during other times. The School has no responsibility for students or parents/guardians on the premises during unsupervised times.
C. Arrivals
A child must go directly to the gym between 8:15 and 8:30AM. Parents are asked not to leave a child at school before 8:15AM unless they are registered for C.A.R.E.S. If a child arrives after 8:30, he/she is late.
D. Daily Schedule
Grades 1 - 8 Kindergarten Pre-Kindergarten
Morning Session 8:30 -12:00 8:30 – 12:00 8:45 – 12:00
Lunch 12:00-1:45 12:00-12:45 12:00 – 12:45
Afternoon Session 12:45-3:00 12:45-3:00 12:45 – 2:45
Dismissal begins 3:00 3:00 2:45
E. Dismissals
Children are dismissed from their classroom at 3:00PM. No child may leave the building prior to dismissal without the Principal’s permission.
F. Early Dismissal - Individual Students
No child will be dismissed early except in cases of emergency. To request an early dismissal, please send a note to the teacher who will forward it to the office. The student will be dismissed from the school office. The parent/guardian must report to the school office and sign the child out for dismissal.
If a student leaves school due to an appointment or sickness, he/she is marked absent for a half day if he/she leaves any time between 10:00AM and 2:00PM. If a student leaves after 2:00 he/she is not marked absent but the reason is indicated on the roll slip. Leaving school after 2:00 for non-health related reasons will affect the awarding of a Perfect Attendance Certificate.
G. Emergency Closings
If inclement weather prevents school from opening or causes a change in schedule, a chain call will be made. There will be an announcement on the local radio station, WBCB-1490 and on the TV stations; ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC. In all cases the school name will be announced. Due to transportation, these decisions are made by the local school districts. We ask that you PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL OR THE RECTORY.
H. Emergency Contact Forms
The school requires the parent/guardian of each student to complete an emergency contact form provided by the school. It is important that the information on this form is accurate and updated so the school can contact the parent/guardian in an emergency.
I. Lateness
A student who arrives late for school must:
- report to the school office for an admission slip
- present the admission slip to the teacher in the class
Lateness impacts on a perfect attendance record and constitutes a serious infraction. Continual lateness may result in either lunchtime or after school detention.
J. Vacation Policy
The planning of family vacations is strongly discouraged during the school year. Please contact the Principal directly if there is a need for your child to be away on vacation during the school year. The repeated taking vacations during school may be grounds for dismissal. In the event the child goes away, all work must be made up when the child returns to school.
The School discourages participation in “Take Your Child to Work” Day. If a child participates the child is marked absent. This does count against perfect attendance.
BOOKS AND MATERIALS
Every student must carry his/her books to and from school in a school bag. All books must be covered, with the exception of copybooks. All covers must be neat, clean and free from inappropriate material. Books, copybooks and materials should be properly identified with the child’s name and room number.
It is the responsibility of the student to maintain the books in the proper condition. A fee will be assessed for any lost or damaged books. Students are expected to take care of their personal belongings, books and clothing. They are also asked to help care for the school building and the adjoining property. Any malicious damage will necessitate compensation. Damage to neighborhood property on the way to and from school reflects on both school and home training.
CELLULAR TELEPHONES/PAGERS/HANDHELD ELECTRONICS
Cellular telephones, beepers, pagers, handheld electronic games, personal CD players, iPods and other items that in the view of the School, may be distracting or disruptive to the learning environment and are not permitted in school.
CHILDREN ARE RECEIVING EXTENDED SERVICES (CARES) PROGRAM
Before and after school child care is available for all children. The morning services are available from 6:30AM until 8:20AM. Afternoon services are available from 3:00PM until 6:00PM. A per-hour fee for each child is charged. There is a yearly registration fee of $25.00 per family.
COMMUNICATIONS/STUDENT RECORDS/RELEASE OF STUDENTS
A. Legal Custody Issues
Parents are asked to inform school personnel when legal custody of the child resides with one parent. It is important for the school to have a copy of the custody decree. This will help school personnel to make effective decisions when the need arises. Custodial parents are likewise asked to supply the school with copies of restraining orders if the need arises.
Those individuals who have legal custody of the student may attend school meetings, participate in educational decisions and review educational records regarding the student. Persons who do not have legal custody (including those with visitation rights but not legal custody) have no such educational rights and may not participate in these matters.
The School requires parents/guardians to sign an agreement regarding the administration of parental participation issues and payment of tuition.
B. Conferences
Parent-teacher Conferences are scheduled at the first progress report for grades 1-8.
Arrangements for parent-teacher conferences at other times can be made in writing to suit the convenience of both parties whenever deemed necessary for the benefit of the child. When requesting a conference, please state the nature of the concern so the teacher can be better prepared to address it. Should a problem arise concerning any child, parents should feel free to discuss it with the proper school authority - teacher, principal or pastor. The better the communication, the easier to direct your child in his/her educational endeavors.
Teachers may not be interrupted during the school day: lunches, messages, forgotten books, etc. should be left at the office with the child’s name and room number.
C. Family Communication Envelopes
Several modes of communication exist at our school to help keep parents informed of policies, activities, upcoming events and student progress. Regular forms of communication include this handbook, a monthly calendar of events, the monthly newsletter, communication envelopes that go home bimonthly with the youngest in each family, the school website, parent-teacher conferences, progress reports and report cards.
It is the responsibility of the youngest child in each family enrolled in the school to provide the parents with all written communications. Parents are asked to check book bags and folders regularly for such communications. Any communications, forms, money, etc. that are brought to the school come to the office through the homeroom teacher. Students should not be instructed to deliver such items directly to the office.
D. Student Records
Unless a court or custody agreement specifies otherwise, each parent/guardian with legal custody is entitled to access all school records of the child. Absent a subpoena or court order, school records of the child may be disclosed only upon written consent of the parent/guardian with legal custody.
E. Release of a Child
A child will not be released to a parent/guardian who does not have physical custody, without the written consent of the custodial parent/guardian. To determine the custodial parent/guardian, all separated or divorced parents of children enrolled in the parish school must provide the school with a copy of the court order or custodial agreement adjudicating that determination of custody. This court order/custodial agreement is placed in a confidential file.
COMPUTERS-ACCEPTABLE USER POLICY
A. Purpose and Goals
Technology is a valuable tool educational tool. Our schools are committed to teaching students to work and learn with technology and ensure responsible use of technology. Students and all users of computer technology have a responsibility to use these tools properly and in accordance with the policy set forth below:
~ to provide a variety of technology based tools
~ teach technology skills
~ integrate technology with curriculum to enhance teaching and learning
~ encourage critical thinking and problem solving skills
~ facilitate evaluation and synthesis of information
~ encourage ethical practices and provide education for internet safety
B. Responsibilities of User
Our school will make every effort to provide a safe environment for learning with technology including Internet safeguards. The students are granted the privilege of using technology including the Internet. With this privilege comes the responsibility to use the equipment correctly, respect the name and intellectual property of others, and follow the policies outlined below.
C. Technology Use Guidelines
- Educational Purpose/Appropriate Use: All technology use and Internet access is provided solely for educational purposes. Educational sites and assignments are to be used to enhance learning. Students must not access social networking or gaming sites, except for educational purposes under teacher supervision. Expressed permission to use the Internet and technology in school must always be obtained.
- Copyright/Intellectual Property and Identity: All sources obtained for teacher and student work should be properly cited. Users are to respect the rights and intellectual property of others in accordance with Federal Copyright Law. Transferring copyrighted material to or from school without the permission of the owner is a violation of Federal Law. When using school technology, students are to use their assigned user name and password at all times. Each person is to log off of their account before leaving a computer unattended.
- Communications: Electronic or digital communications with students should be conducted for educationally appropriate purposes and employ only school sanctioned means of communication: Teacher school web page, teacher school email, teacher school phone number and educationally focused networking sites.
Teachers or administrators in their normal responsibilities may be required to contact parents outside of the school day. A teacher or administrator is free to contact a parent using a personal phone, however, they should not purposely distribute a personal number to students. If a student contacts a teacher or administrator using a personal number, email or networking site, this must be immediately reported to the administrator or proper authorities.
- Electronic and Mobile Devices: Use of any technology oriented device in school should have an educational focus. Users must adhere to local policy regarding the use of additional electronic devices including, but not limited to PDAs, calculators, gaming devices, cell phones and pagers. Access will be determined by the administrator of the school The school’s technology policy regarding authorization, use, responsibility, integrity, intellectual property and monitoring will by applied to these devices. If a particular device is to be used for educational purposes, the school will provide parameters for this use.
N.B. The types of electronic devices referenced include, but are not limited to, social networking sites, cell phones, digital cameras, text messaging, email, voice over ip, chat rooms and instant messaging.
- Examples of Unacceptable Uses:
- Users must not use equipment to harass, threaten, deceive, offend, embarrass or annoy anyone. Users must not post, publish or display and defamatory, inaccurate, violent, abusive, profane or sexually oriented material. Users must use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude or threatening language. Users must no knowingly or recklessly post false information about any person or organization.
- Users must not use a photo, image, video or likeness of another without express permission of that individual and the principal. Users must not use school equipment to create any site, post any photo or image of another without permission of the individual and principal. Maintaining or posting material to a website or blog that threatens a likelihood of substantial disruption in school, including harming or interfering with the rights of other students or teachers to participate fully in school or extracurricular activities is a violation of the Acceptable User Policy and subject to disciplinary measures.
- Users must not attempt to circumvent system security, guess passwords or in any way gain access to secured resources, another person’s file or password. Users must not install, move, delete, download, upload, reconfigure or modify any software or files on school equipment without permission. Users must not tamper with external devices without permission.
- Users must not deliberately visit a site known for unacceptable material or material that is not in support of educational objectives. Students must not access social networking sites or gaming sites, except for educational purposes under teacher supervision.
- Users must not plagiarize content or present the work of another without properly citing the work. Users must not violate license agreements, copy discs, DC-ROMS, or other protected media. Users must not use technology for any Illegal activity. Use of the Internet for commercial gains or profits is prohibited.
- Reporting: Users must report immediately any damage or change to the school’s hardware/software that is noticed by the user.
- Administrative Rights: The school has the right to monitor use of school computers and accessed content. Due to the evolving nature of technology, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Office of Catholic Education reserves the right to amend or add to this policy at any time without notice.
D. Discipline
Violations of these rules will be handled by the Administration of the school and mayresult in any of the following:
- Loss of use of the school network, computers and software, including internet access. The student will be expected to complete work on a non-networked, stand-alone computer system.
- Issuance of demerits/detentions, if applicable.
- Disciplinary action including, but not limited to, dismissal and/or legal action by the school, civil authorities or other involved parties.
E. Student Access Contract
Use of the School’s computer resources requires that the student and his/her parents/guardians sign a Student Access Contract each year.
DRESS CODE
Neatness and cleanliness in personal attire are part of the child’s education and the responsibility of the parents. When a child looks and feels good about himself/herself, he/she acts and works accordingly.
Any student not in compliance with the dress code will receive a uniform notice form.
Personal appearance that constitutes a distraction in not permitted. Final approval/disapproval is at the discretion of the Principal.
A. Hair styles/Grooming
Student’s hair is to be neat and clean, and groomed conservatively. No extreme styles. Hair should not cover the eyes. Boy’s hair may not touch their shirt collar and ears must be cut out. The Principal has the final decision on correct hair styles.
B. Jewelry
Although jewelry is not part of the school uniform, post earrings of a small and conservative style are permitted to be worn by the girls (one earring only in each ear). No other visible piercing is permitted. Bracelets, both ankle and wrist, pins and buttons are not part of the school uniform. This includes all rope, yarn and beaded neck, wrist and ankle bands. A religious medal or cross is permitted.
C. Out of Uniform
If at any time during the year an exception in uniform is necessary, a note of explanation must be sent to the child’s teacher who will forward it to the principal. This note should indicate the expected date when the uniform will be complete.
D. Make-up
No make-up or nail polish is acceptable. Sculptured nails may not be worn in school.
E. Shoes
Shoes are to be sturdy, flat, rubber-soled shoes. Oxfords, loafers or docksiders are acceptable. No sneakers, sneaker-type shoes, moccasins, dress boots, hiking boots, heels, platforms or canvas shoes are to be worn. The girls must wear saddle shoes.
F. Gym Uniform
St. Michael tee shirt (purchased in school), light gray sweat pants, light gray shorts in spring and fall, light gray sweat shirt with the school logo, and sneakers. No gym pants may have attached pockets. Mesh shorts are unacceptable.
G. Girls Uniform K-4
Green plaid jumper, yellow blouse, white turtleneck (no decorations), green knee socks or tights, and optional sweater - green cardigan or crew neck with school logo.
H. Girls Uniform 5-8
Green plaid kilt, yellow oxford cloth blouse, white turtleneck, green knee socks or tights, green crew neck sweater, and white short sleeve knit shirt with school logo for spring and fall. The kilt is to be no more than one inch above the knee and is not to be rolled at the waist.
I. Boys Uniform K-8
Gray dress pants (available from Flynn & O’Hara), white shirt with forest green tie or white turtleneck, forest green, V-neck, sleeveless or long sleeve sweater with school logo and white short sleeve knit shirt with school logo for spring and fall. No cargo or cargo style pants with attached pockets may be worn.
J. Optional Summer Uniform
Summer uniforms may be worn from the first day of school until October 15 and from May 1 until the last day of school. Summer uniforms consist of khaki walking shorts with a short sleeve knit shirt with the school logo. Summer uniforms must be purchased from Flynn & O’Hara. White crew socks with school shoes or low-cut black or white sneakers are worn with the summer uniform.
Children who are not in proper uniform will be issued a uniform slip. If a child receives three uniform slips for the same violation, he/she is liable for a lunch time or after school detention. Continued failure to comply with the dress code will make a child liable for suspension. Children who are not in proper uniform will have points deducted from the Personal Development grade on their report card.
FIELD TRIPS/CLASS TRIPS
The purpose of every class trip is to broaden the intellectual, cultural and social experiences of each child. There will be no overnight field trips or activities that the School deems to be high risk. A field trip parent consent form must be signed by the parents/guardians and the student in order for the student to participate on the trip.
A class trip is a privilege which can be taken away if a teacher deems it appropriate.
If a parent/guardian does not wish a child to attend the trip for any reason, he/she should notify the School. The child must attend school on the day of the trip or be marked absent.
GYM
Gym classes are held weekly. Every student is expected to show good sportsmanship in gym. Any student displaying conduct that could bring about harm to himself/herself or another or which reflects poor sportsmanship will be dealt with in a manner considered appropriate by the teacher and/or the principal.
For information regarding the gym uniform, please see Gym Uniforms, under “Dress Code.”
HEALTH
A. Medical Records
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has mandated that all children entering school for the first time present documented proof that the following immunizations have been received:
- Diphtheria; 4 doses Toxoid - one after the fourth birthday
- Tetanus; 4 doses Toxoid - one after the fourth birthday
- Polio; 3 doses Trivalen Oral Vaccine
- Measles; 2 doses of vaccine
- Rubella; 2 doses of vaccine
- Mumps; 2 doses of vaccine
- Hepatitis B; 3 doses of vaccine
After the basic series of three Oral Polio Vaccines Diphtheria and Tetanus, boosters are due between four and six years of age. This should be followed by a Diphtheria-Tetanus booster between 14 and 16 years of age with a subsequent booster every ten years. Please inform the school nurse, in writing, when boosters are given. Other immunizations may be required.
The State does not require Pertussis, Haemophilus influenza B (HIB) or Smallpox vaccination but parents should check with physician for current practices.
B. Nurse
A registered nurse is provided by the public school district according to the school’s enrollment on days selected by the public school district.
The nurse is responsible for checking the height, weight, hearing and vision of every child and for making referrals to parents when problems are found. The nurse maintains all health records. Care given in the school is limited to first aid in accidents or illness until the parents can be reached to take the child home, to the doctor or to the hospital. In an emergency, the nurse will arrange to have the child transported to the hospital.
All students are screened yearly under the State-mandated program. Student physical examinations are required within three months of entry into school and the sixth grade. Student dental examinations are required within three months of entry into school and in the third and seventh grades. The seventh grade students are also screened for scoliosis.
If your child has a specific medical problem, please notify the homeroom teacher and the nurse of the problem. Medic -alert bracelets are strongly recommended for any child with a medical problem. Emergency cards are kept on file for each student. Please be sure we have an up-to-date emergency number on file in case of an emergency during the school day involving your child.
C. Accident/Illness At School
Accidents or unusual illness occurring at school are reported immediately to the nurse and Principal. When a student becomes ill or meets with an accident, the parent or guardian is contacted. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the emergency contact will be called. No medicine of any kind, including aspirin, may be given to the student. Only basic first aid may be administered. Parents must be contacted immediately if there is any question regarding an injury.
Each child is required to have a Tuberculin Tine test within a three-month period prior to entering school.
D. Medications
It is generally recommended that prescription medicines be given to the student before and/or after school in accordance with the physician’s directions. In those rare instances where the medication must be given during the school day, it should be taken by the student in the presence of the School Nurse.
Parents/guardians are required sign a medication authorization form, which is available from the School, if the student must take medication at school.
Prescription and non-prescription over the counter medications must be in the original container with a note from the parent and physician and include: name of medicine, dosage, time of administration, dates to be given and reason for medication. Medications may be sent in by the day or week. It is not recommended that students carry a full prescription bottle to be taken back and forth daily.
Students requiring medical attention must report to the nurse. No medications should be placed in lunch boxes or school bags for students to self-administer. All medications must be taken to the Nurse’s Office.
LIBRARY
The school library is staffed by volunteers and is available to the students during the school day. Books may be taken out once a week. A fine will be levied on overdue books. Damage or loss of books will result in the parent/guardian being responsible for the replacement cost of the book. Appropriate conduct is expected at all times in the library.
LUNCH AND SNACKS
All students stay for lunch during the school year. The forty-five minute period is divided into twenty-five minutes to eat and twenty minutes to play. If a parent wishes to have a child leave school at lunchtime, prior arrangements must be made through a note sent to the teacher and forwarded to the office. The child must have an adult with him/her when leaving for and returning from lunch.
Please include in your child’s lunch box a placemat or paper towel to place under his/her lunch. Also include at least two napkins in the lunch box. This is most appreciated as a means of helping with the clean up at the end of the lunch period. Students are expected to clean their places after eating, pick up and dispose of papers, and walk to the play area when dismissed. Respect and courtesy are to be shown to the adults who supervise and assist during this time.
Lunch from fast food restaurants is not permitted in school. If your child forgets his/her lunch, please do not bring lunch from a fast food restaurant. Children are not permitted to have food delivered to school by any restaurant.
INVOLVEMENT OF PARENTS/GUARDIANS
Parents and guardians must weigh seriously their obligation to educate their children in an atmosphere of love and respect for God and others. The home is the first school of the social virtues essential to any well-ordered society.
Active cooperation of parents and guardians is expected and required as follows:
- Sending their child to school physically fit, clean and properly dressed and fed.
- Assisting their child’s spiritual, academic and moral development through careful
attention to his/her report card, supervision of home study and behavior and
cooperation with the school in matters of activities, academics and discipline.
- Sending a written explanation each time their child is absent from school.
- Setting a good example by personally refraining from any activity that would
violate School policy, Catholic teachings or the law.
- Taking an active role in the Home and School Association.
The failure of a parent/guardian to take seriously his/her responsibilities in this area is grounds for action by the School, including dismissal of the student.
SAFETY
A. Fire Drills
Fire drills are conducted on a monthly basis. The students are instructed to leave the building quickly and in silence when the alarm rings according to directions posted in each area. Failure to cooperate is considered a serious matter.
B. Regulations
The following regulations have been established to insure the safety of our student and must be adhered to by each student:
- Running is not permitted at any time within the school building or in moving from
one place to another on the school premises.
- Entry is not permitted into the school building before school, at recess or lunch or
after dismissal at any time, unless a staff member gives explicit permission to do so.
- No student may leave the school premises at any time without permission. A
violation of this regulation will result in automatic suspension. Every student must
stay within the established boundaries when outdoors for lunch or recess.
- All visitors must ring the bell for entry and report to the school office.
- All outside doors are kept locked.
C. Other Drills
In order to ensure that children are prepared for any emergency, other drills such as Shelter in Place, Lock Down and Evacuation drills will be held on a periodic basis throughout the school year.
SMOKING
The school premises are a smoke-free environment. No smoking is allowed in the school building. Violations will result in suspension from school and school-related activities until a conference can be arranged with the parents and the principal.
TELEPHONE-SCHOOL OFFICE
The telephone in the school office is for business only. A student may use the phone only in an emergency with the permission of the Principal. Permission will not be given to call home for forgotten supplies or to communicate social plans. Please do not request that a child phone home during or after school for any reason.
If a child is detained at school without prior notification, permission will be granted to use the phone. Urgent messages will be relayed to students from the school office. During class time, neither student nor teacher may be called to the phone. Messages can be given to the school secretary, when necessary, and she will relay them to the teacher.
TRANSFER OF STUDENTS
If a student is transferring to another school, parents are requested to obtain the official transfer form and sign a permission form to release school records. Records are not forwarded to another school until this form has been signed and, in the discretion of the school; the parents/guardians have made suitable arrangements to pay any amounts due the school or parish. The student will be given a transfer slip on his/her last day of school. School records will be forwarded to the child’s new school upon request from that school. Every change of address, phone number or family name must be reported to the principal as soon as possible. Up-to-date records are needed in case of an emergency.
TRANSPORTATION
In the beginning of the school year, parents are asked how their child will arrive at and leave school. Changes in transportation arrangements, even for one day, should be made in writing. Transportation changes are not to be made over the phone.
A. Bicycles/Scooters
Students are permitted to ride bicycles or scooters to school. Students should follow state and local bicycle laws, including wearing appropriately sized helmets.
B. Bus
Children who reside at a distance greater than one mile from the school are eligible to receive bus transportation from the public school district of residence.
Children who ride the school bus are expected to behave in a safe and orderly manner at all times. Failure to do so may result in their being denied the privilege of riding the bus. Children must ride the same bus both morning and afternoon as assigned them by the school district. Bus riders are not permitted to walk home unless the parents send a note to the homeroom teacher asking permission for this exception. Please do not ask permission for your child to ride a different bus, especially one provided by a district other than the one in which you reside. The School may not grant such permission.
Please do not request permission, written or verbal, from the principal for a student who is a non-rider to take the bus to any location on a given day. The school is not in a position to grant such a request. If you wish to pursue such a change, you may call the transportation office of the local public school district.
C. Car Pick-up
Parents who pick up students must park their cars and meet the students at the school dismissal area. Running is prohibited. The principal or a teacher will oversee car pick-up procedures daily.
D. Walkers
Any student who walks home is dismissed in line. A teacher escorts the students to the Crossing Guard.
E. Crossing Guards
Crossing guards are provided by the local public school district. They are not employees or under the direction of the school. The School is not responsible for the conduct of the crossing guards or for insuring that crossing guards are posted as scheduled.
TUITION
Our school provides a quality, Catholic education through the efforts of our parish priests, faculty, staff, Home and School Association, volunteers, parish community, and most of all, the many sacrifices of the parents/guardians of the children.
Tuition is determined in February for the following school year. The School may also impose fees for other items, such as extracurricular activities, field trips, books and registration. This information is communicated through the communication envelope.
In justice to all parents and the parish community, parents are expected to keep tuition payments current. Both parents are jointly responsible for tuition and fees charged by the School. The School reserves the right to take action, up to and including dismissal and withholding of school records, if tuition payments are not made in a timely manner.
VISITORS
Visitors are welcome by appointment. To arrange for a visit, visitors should contact the school office.
Parents coming to school to bring forgotten articles or relay messages should come to the school office. Classes may not be disturbed for these reasons. Parents may not confer with a teacher or visit a classroom between the hours of 8:15AM and 3:15PM, unless the Principal gives permission for such a visit.
All visitors must report to the school office and sign the Visitor’s Log when entering the building. Visitors are required to wear a Visitors Badge while in the school building. An atmosphere of quiet respect for the learning rights of the students should prevail throughout the building.
VOLUNTEERS
The assistance of parent volunteers is greatly appreciated and encouraged. We recognize the invaluable assistance of given by our students’ families, which helps in building a strong learning community. Parents are urged to take an active part in their child’s education by volunteering whenever possible. A volunteer form will be sent home at the beginning of the year for those parents or family members who would like to share their time and talents with us. Any person who volunteers in school must have appropriate Police Checks and Child Abuse Clearances. They must also attend a Child Abuse Prevention Training Session and sign a form stating that they will abide by “The Standards of Ministerial Behavior” as set forth by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Every student is expected to show courtesy and respect to all volunteers.
AUXILIARY SERVICES
STATE FUNDED PROGRAMS
THE BUCKS COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT - NON-PUBLIC SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION
The Intermediate Unit runs our largest state-funded program, Act 89, which provides remedial reading, remedial math, guidance and counseling services, speech and psychological services to non-public school students in Bucks County. These services are provided to all students who have a need in any of these areas.
CATAPULT provides remedial reading and math services and the services of a Child Study Team to give counseling and identify learning disabilities.
TEXT BOOKS
The state provides funding for the purchase of textbooks and workbooks in all areas except Religion. At the time of registration, parents are required to sign a form requesting these books.
FEDERALLY FUNDED PROGRAMS
Through Title I funds, we are able to provide classes in remedial reading. Children must qualify for this program according to the guidelines for Title I services.
HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
The Home and School Association of our parish school has set as its objective the advancement of Catholic education and the welfare of all of the school’s children. It strives to enhance the parents’ and teachers’ roles in education by increasing their mutual understanding of the children and by providing opportunities for parents and teachers to work together for the good of the children. The Association promotes parent-school activities to increase members’ interest in education and civic affairs and conducts fundraising activities. Members of the Home and School Association can be contacted through the school office.