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Academic Policies
Academic Expectations
Homework
The time allotments for homework (written and study) are as follows: Grades Pre-K & K approximately 15 minutes Grades 1 & 2 approximately 30 minutes Grades 3 & 4 approximately 45 minutes Grades 5 & 6 approximately 90 minutes Grades 7 & 8 approximately 120 minutes Students are required to complete all homework and it is expected that parents or guardians sign the completed homework.
Grades and Grading Report cards are distributed four times a year for Grades 1 to 8. Pre-K and Kindergarten report cards are distributed twice a year. The report card is a link between the school and the home.
Academic Achievement The first part of the Archdiocesan Report Card is used to mark the student’s achievement in academic subjects.
The June grade on the report card is an average of the four previous record card grades. This grade will be recorded on the student’s permanent record card.
Character Development · The conduct/effort mark is placed under Character Development as a"Conduct Grade". This mark indicates that the student 1) follows class and school rules, 2) shows care in the use of personal property, 3) treats teachers with respect, 4) treats other students with 5) exercises self-control, 6) listens attentively and 7) uses technology appropriately.
Honor Roll The criteria for inclusion in the Honor Roll are peculiar for each school. As an acknowledgment of achievement in academics, a suggested model would be:
Report Card Distribution Report cards may not be given before the assigned date. In the event the student will leave school prior to last day in June and all financial obligations have been met, the student may give the teacher a self-addressed stamped envelope and the report will be mailed on the last day of school.
Promotion/Retention Very few decisions we make about children are more important than
Assessments In addition to class and school exams your child will also take part in the Archdiocesan testing program which includes the Archdiocesan religion test, annual standardized tests, and New York State Education Department assessments. These tests measure academic growth over a period of time.
The faculty of St. Augustine School reviews these test results
Accidents
A student accident insurance fee is added to every child’s book bill. In the event of an accident at school you may obtain a claim form from the office. Please note that the school accident insurance usually is secondary to the parent’s own medical insurance coverage.
Admission Policies Roman Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base their educational purpose and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all persons as rooted in God’s love.
Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Archdiocese do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, and gender in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New York whether owned or operated by the Archdiocese, the parishes of the Archdiocese or religious communities with the Archdiocese.
The process for admission to St. Augustine School is: parents must complete the school application form and provide all required documents. Following an interview and evaluation of the materials, the parent will be notified about the status of the child.
St. Augustine School gives preference in admission first, to siblings of currently enrolled students; second, to Catholic students whose parents are active members of the parish; third, to Catholic students whose parents are active in another Catholic parish; fourth, to non-Catholic students.
After School Program An after school program is available to parents. After school assists students in completing homework, as well as offering the student an opportunity to play and socialize. The After school Program ends at 6pm. The fee is in addition to tuition. After school is in session on First Fridays. Announcements Informational announcements are handled through the school P.A. Courteous attention is expected when any message is presented over the P.A. system, especially when prayers are said. All announcements must be written and brought to the office and approved by the principal.
Excused Absence: A child is legally absent from school for the following reasons: sickness, sickness or death in the family, impassable roads or extreme weather; all other absences are unexcused. Lateness: A child should come to school even though he/she may be late. All lateness is recorded and marked on the report card. Parents will be consulted about chronic lateness, and the child may be required to make up time missed. _________________________________________________________ When the child returns to school, a completed absence form must be given to the teacher. (See Appendix.) This form is distributed at the beginning of the school year and contains appropriate spaces for the child’s name, date of absence, class, reason for absence, and the signature of a parent or guardian. Doctor or dental appointments should be scheduled for after school or on Saturdays.
Family vacations are not to be planned for those days when school is in session. The school provides families with an annual calendar to insure that does not happen.
If it is necessary for a child to be dismissed during the school day, the parent or adult chosen by the parent MUST come to the school for the child. The school must be informed ahead of time about such occurrences. When a child is absent, parents are required to phone the school by 9:00 A.M.. Absence notes are still required in addition to the phone call.
Books All books must be properly covered. Contact paper is NOT to be used to cover any books obtained under N.Y.S. Textbook Loan. These books are stamped on the inside front cover. Each child is responsible for keeping his/her books in good condition. Books that are lost or defaced become the liability of the student and his/her parents. If a book is lost or defaced, the school will bill the parents for the cost.
Change of Address The office must be informed immediately if there is a change of home address or telephone number for purposes of mailing and/or emergency.
Child Abuse Laws Under NYS law, school officials are legally obliged to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the proper agency. In so reporting, no allegation is made against a parent or care giver. Rather, it is a judgment by the school that the child may be presenting signs of abuse or neglect. If the teacher or school nurse suspects abuse or neglect, he or she must immediately confer with the principal to discuss the aspects of the abuse and to determine which person on the school staff will report the alleged abuse to
the
Child Custody Custodial parents are entitled to receive original sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.. Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.. Such parents may be asked to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.
Communication Since as parents you are the child’s first teachers, you are our partners in education. Therefore, regular communication with you is an essential part of your child’s school experience. Scheduled parent conferences allow teachers and parents to discuss student achievement as well as to develop means to assist students in areas of difficulty. A parent may request a meeting with a teacher at any time by simply sending a note to the teacher in question and the teacher will arrange for this meeting outside class time at a mutually convenient time. The meeting should take place in the classroom or someplace that insures privacy, never in a hallway or on the street. A parent who is refused such a meeting should notify the principal.
Confidentiality There is a professional and moral ethic that requires all persons to safeguard all information of a privileged nature. It is imperative that such information be regarded as a sacred trust. · If there is evidence of knowledge that could impact on the healthor safety of any person, the teacher has the responsibility to share the information with the principal. · Under Section 423 of the Child Protective Services Act, school officialsare required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child coming before them in their professional or official capacity is an abused or maltreated child. (See section on Child Abuse.) The rules that govern privileged information apply, as well, to any personal or academic information that is discovered through daily classroom instruction or other social interaction with students, parents or peers. Always the sense of the sacred should prevail.
Crisis Plan Should a crisis require evacuation from St. Augustine School building, students will be brought to a safe place located at St. Augustine Church and parents can meet them there. For further information concerning the crisis, parents can refer to the following:
Daily Schedule
The following schedule will be observed:
Before 7:30 AM and after 3:10 PM St. Augustine School does not have staff available to watch out for problems on school grounds or to supervise children on school grounds. Students should not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:30 AM and parents must arrange pickup at dismissal times. IN THOSE INSTANCES WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS PRIOR TO 7:30 AM, PARENTS MUST PROVIDE FOR THEIR PROTECTION AND SUPERVISION.
To avoid interruption during the school day, any messages, forgotten books and boots, etc., must be taken to the OFFICE and not to the classrooms while school is in session. The school office will see to it that the child receives these items.
Discipline Code for Student Conduct Parents choosing Catholic school for their children frequently cite our commitment to structure and discipline as a major reason for their investment in Catholic education. Our students are to conduct themselves at all times as examples of Christian behavior and exhibit the values of their family, the Church, and our school community. Good classroom order and a tight school structure help to insure the safety of all children, facilitate the learning for all students, and promote self-control and self-respect in the individual child. While most parents find our approach to discipline to be very favorable, there are instances when a child breaks a rule and must suffer the consequences of his or her action. It is then that a parent may attempt to debate the fairness of the school policy or make excuses for the child’s misbehavior. The administration of this school does not engage in debates with parents about our rules and regulations, nor can it be supportive of parents who are interfering with a child’s growth in accepting personal responsibility for his or her actions. By enrolling a child in this school the parent agrees to and is supportive of the rules and regulations that we deem as critical in the spiritual, academic, and behavioral growth of the child. Teachers discipline students directly for minor classroom disruptions, for not coming prepared to class, not being in the complete school uniform, for not completing assigned homework, for minor verbal disputes with other classmates, or other incidents which interfere in the teaching-learning process for the child and his or her classmates. Parents are notified of classroom problems by the teacher and are asked to help the teacher to insure that inappropriate behavior is modified. Teachers are not permitted to use corporal punishment on any child. Perceived acts of corporal punishment should be reported to the principal of the school immediately by students or parents. It happens that some classroom discipline issues are referred to the administration of this school. This would include chronic minor problems listed above or major problems such as, but not limited to, chronic lateness, the verbal abuse of the teacher by a child; signs of disrespect to a teacher or another adult on the staff; fighting; physical, sexual, or verbal harassment of a fellow student; violent behavior; stealing; vandalism; or the possession of a drugs, alcohol, or a weapon. The administration handles such matters in a variety of ways depending on the severity of the incident. The school employs a progressive discipline system for minor acts of misbehavior in order to encourage students to change inappropriate behavior so that sanctions do not increase in severity. For acts such as (principal inserts here) students are often given (principal inserts here conduct referral, detention, demerits, etc.) Repeated violation of these rules and regulations may result in suspension from school or the non-re-registration of the child for the next school year. For more serious acts of misbehavior such as fighting, stealing, vandalism, swearing at or being disrespectful to an adult in the building, and harassment, the student is immediately suspended for a period of one to five days. In cases of vandalism, the parent must pay the full cost of the repair or replacement of the item before the child may return to school. In cases of theft, the item is either returned in good condition or the cost of replacement is borne by the parent before the child can return to school. In cases in which a child engages in a fight which causes injury to another child or adult, the police will likely be called and, then, the parents will be notified. Likewise, the possession of drugs or alcohol by a child are reported to the police. The school reserves the right to expel such a child. In cases in which a child brings a weapon to school, the police are notified, and then the parents are called. The school reserves the right to expel a child for the possession of a weapon. It is the expectation of this school that student behavior is exemplary both on and off school grounds. Whenever a child is wearing our school uniform he or she represents his or her parents and the entire school community. Therefore, the school reserves the right to punish students for acts such as, but not necessarily limited to, fighting, vandalism, and stealing off school grounds when the child is in the vicinity of the school or wearing the uniform of the school. The principal determines what is within the vicinity of the school. This could result in any number of punishments including the possibility of suspension or expulsion. Lastly, a child’s arrest for a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, at any time could result in the child’s suspension or expulsion. A child’s conviction of a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, will likely result in a child’s expulsion.
Dress Code Your school uniform confirms your attendance at St. Augustine School and is a symbol of unity within the school community. It minimizes distractions in the learning process. It is important that you take pride in your appearance by wearing your complete uniform always remembering that by wearing it inside and outside the classroom and the school you are representing the school and your behavior should be a credit to both yourself and the school community.
GirlsPre- K - 5: Jumper, uniform shirt
Girls 6 - 8: Skirt, sweater vest, and uniform shirt
Girls K - 8: All girls must wear navy blue knee high socks or tights, black or navy shoes. Sneaker-type shoes are not permitted; no hightop shoes or boots are allowed. No jewelry is permitted. No makeup is allowed and only clear nail polish is permitted.
BoysPre K - 8: Navy dress uniform trousers uniform shirts (long or short sleeves), black shoes, no sneaker type shoes or boots are permitted, navy cardigan or vest sweater.
Gym Uniform: Navy blue school uniform sweatpants and navy blue School tee-shirt and sneakers.
Girls and Boys: The presence of anything that proclaims a current fad is not permitted. During the cold weather, students may wear the navy blue uniform cardigansweater or the uniform school sweatshirt. Other types of sweaters or sweatshirts may not be worn.
Personal Appearance A good personal hygiene routine should be followed daily: ears, neck, and fingernails should be given special attention. When appropriate, children should be instructed in the use of deodorant. Uniforms should be neat and clean.Hair should be clean and well groomed. The boys’ hair should not be below the shirt collar. Bangs should not be so long that they impede vision. Parents will be notified if a child comes to school consistently in an unkempt manner. If no improvement is noticed within a reasonable amount of time, an appointment with the parents and with the guidance office will be made by school officials.
Drug and Alcohol Policies In recognition of the seriousness of drug and alcohol problems to which the children are exposed, St. Augustine School will follow the policy as stated below: · if a teacher suspects that a child is under the influence of either drugs or alcohol,the matter will be referred to the principal immediately · the principal will verify teacher observation and will notify parentswho must pick up the child immediately · should it be determined that the suspicion is accurate, parents will beexpected to follow the recommendations of the school principal if the child is to continue in the school · any student who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug,and appears at a school function in questionable condition will be barred from attending or participating in that ceremony, a party, dance, or school outing. Parents will be notified and appropriate action will be taken which may include suspension or mandatory withdrawal from the school.
Electronic Devices Any electronic device such as cell phones, beepers, hand-held and other personal electronic devices that may distract the student, other students, or the class as a whole during the course of the school day is prohibited. Cell phones may be stored in locked lockers during the school day. They must be turned off.
Emergency Closings/Delayed Openings St. Augustine will be closed when all Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese are closed. Listen for the announcements on the local radio stations already listed in this handbook.
Expectations and Responsibilities for Students Students attend St. Augustine School in order to develop fully their God-given talents and capabilities. To accomplish this, students are asked to:· try to do their best work at all times.· treat all members of the school community (i.e., teachers, staff, priests,parents and students) with respect. This includes respecting the work of others by not cheating. · obey all school rules and regulations, including those forbidding theuse of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or disruptive behavior.
Extracurricular Activities Students are encouraged to participate in the extracurricular activities of the school. Participation in these activities is a privilege. Students are expected to fulfill their obligations in the classroom (class work and homework). In order to participate in extracurricular activities, students must pass each subject on their report card and model acceptable behavior both during the school day and during the selected activity. Failure to meet academic or behavioral requirements will result in the student’s suspension or dismissal from the activity. Participation in these activities requires a commitment of both student and parent. Attendance will be taken at each activity to determine a student’s participation. In individual cases regarding participation in extracurricular activities, the principal holds the final determination.
Faculty Meetings Faculty meetings are scheduled on first Friday of each month, unless parents are otherwise notified. All children will be dismissed at 11:30 AM on these days.
Field Trips Field trips must serve an educational purpose and their value should be an integral part of the school’s instructional program. They broaden the students’ educational experiences. Field trips are privileges given to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip. · Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achievecurricular goals. · Field trips vary on each grade level.· Field trips are permissible when advanced planning, location, and theexperience insure a successful learning opportunity. · Individual teachers in consultation with the administration reserve theright to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct. · A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required beforea child will be permitted to attend a field trip. Verbal or faxed permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due in the office 48 hours before the day of the trip.
Financial Policies
The school’s expectation at the time of registration is that all tuition and fees will be paid on time. Failure to do so serves to rupture the contract that we make with parents and this could result in the suspension of a child for delinquent tuition or fees. TUITION IS DUE THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH. Tuition is an annual fee paid in 10 monthly installments.
contribute to the support of the parish. Non-Catholic families other than Catholic.
2. FEES All fees should be paid on time. If there are outstanding fees at the time of report card distribution, the report card will be withheld until fees are paid. Problems or difficulties involving finances must be taken up with the Pastor. Please contact him at the rectory.
Your participation in ongoing religious, educational, and voluntary programs of our school is vital to our school and to our children. We thank you for your cooperation and support.
Each family is requested to participate in the annual catalogue sale . B. Candy Sale Each family must participate in the annual spring Candy Sale by selling a minimum of one box of candy per student.
Fire Drills Fire drills at regular intervals are required by the law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the fire signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. Students are not permitted to talk during a fire drill and are to remain outside the building until a signal is given to return inside. Teachers will direct the students.
Guidance A guidance program is a resource available to St. Augustine School students. Service may include counseling, psychological intervention and support for families experiencing change.
Guidelines for the Education of Non-Catholics of New York has as its primary mission the formation of children in the Catholic faith. All children will participate in total academic life of our school, including religious education. According to the norms of our Church, it is expected that non-Catholics participate as fully as they can in the liturgical and prayer life of the school. The religious educators of our schools are committed toteaching the fullness of revelation as it is taught by the Roman Catholic Church and as the life and doctrine are set forth in the Religious Education Guidelines of the Archdiocese of New York. While our teachers value ecumenical education and respect the traditions of other ecclesiastical communities, they always teach within the context of fidelity to the doctrine and traditions of our teaching church.
Harassment Policies Harassment regulations need to be grounded in the belief that all persons have a right to be treated with dignity. All demeaning behavior is prohibited. St. Augustine School provides a safe environment for all. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken seriously. Students making such threats even in jest face appropriate disciplinary action including detention, suspension or expulsion. Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior are subject to detention, suspension, or expulsion and where appropriate, will be referred for counseling services. If you believe that your child is being harassed, please notify the principal immediately.
HIV/AIDS Curriculum The Archdiocese of New York and the NYS Education Department mandate that all schools are to give age-appropriate instruction on HIV and AIDS to all students in Grades K –12. The Archdiocesan schools use an HIV/AIDS Handbook developed and approved by the Catholic Bishops of the State of New York. Schools under the authority of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York do not discriminate on the basis of HIV or AIDS. Students with HIV or AIDS shall not be excluded from school by reason of infection with HIV unless the following conditions are evident as determined by the student’s physician and parents (or legal guardian), together with the school administrator and pastor. The conditions are: · The student is not toilet-trained or is incontinent, or unable tocontrol drooling. · The student is unusually physically aggressive, with a documentedhistory of biting or harming others.
Illness If a child has a chronic illness such as asthma or a condition that warrants frequent use of the bathroom, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school and classroom teacher in writing in September so that we are aware of the condition.
Immunizations New York State Immunization Requirements for School Entrance and Attendance
New York City Department of Health, Bureau of Immunization, 2 Lafayette Street, 19th Floor, New York, NY 10007 (212) 676-2273 New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control - Immunization Program, ESP, Corning Tower, Room 649, Albany, NY 12237 (518) 473-4437
Varicella Vaccine Required Immunization against varicella (chickenpox) is now required by law. In 1999, Public Health Law Section 2164 was amended to require the following children to be immunized against varicella:
· all children born on or after January 1,1998 and are entering kindergartenin September 2003 · children born on or after January 1, 2000 and are enrolled in any school.The administration of varicella vaccine in not recommended for children under the age of one. Information on varicella vaccine was not required to be entered on theimmunization survey form until September 2001.
Lateness Student lateness interrupts the learning process for your child and all other children in that classroom. Any student arriving at school after the published opening time is considered late. If late, the student may be admitted to class only with a late pass, obtainable in the main office. Repeated lateness affects your child’s ability to be on the honor roll and could impede your child’s re-registration for the coming year.
Liturgy All students in Pre K to 8 will attend Mass on the first Friday of each month and at other times as indicated in the school calendar. Respectful participation of every child is required at school liturgies.
Lunchroom St. Augustine School provides a hot lunch through the Archdiocesan School Nutrition program. In order to participate in a free or reduced lunch program, parents must complete a form that will be distributed in September. Criteria for eligibility is noted on the form. If your child is not eligible for a free or reduced lunch program and you wish your child to participate in the hot lunch program, you must send lunch money to the school on a weekly basis, in an envelope marked with your child’s name your child’s class, and the amount of money. The envelope must clearly state LUNCH MONEY.· Each child is assigned a seat in the lunchroom and is expected toremain in it until dismissed
Maternity/Paternity Policies As members of the church committed to the preservation of life at all levels, the Catholic school must act in ways consistent with that commitment. Catholic
schools, elementary as well as secondary, are faced sometimes with the situations of unwed mothers and fathers. The issue is certainly an emotionally charged one. School officials will consider carefully the consequences of any policies that are adopted. At the very minimum, students will be encouraged to finish their work and to receive grades and diplomas. The decision concerning a student’s continued school attendance is made by the principal after consultation with his/her parents or guardians, and in consideration of the best interest of the student, the unborn child and the school’s educational expectations.
Medications If a student needs any kind of medication during the school day, the medication is to be brought to the school office and kept there. A written statement from the parent or guardian requesting administration of the medication in school as ordered by the licensed prescriber is required. Medication must be presented in a properly labeled container. Prescription medication must be in the original container. On the prescription medication the pharmacy label should display: · student name· name and phone number of the pharmacy· licensed prescriber name· date and number of refills· name of the medication and dosage· frequency of administrationMedication should not be transported daily to and from school. Parents should be advised to ask the pharmacist for two containers – one for home and one for school. The school may receive a written request from a parent or physician to permit a student to carry and self administer his or her own medication. Under certain circumstances it may be necessary to do so. Such a decision will be made on a case-by-case basis and will reflect the age and maturity of the child.
Money Money that is brought to school for a specific purpose (class trip, book fair, etc.) must be put into an envelope with the child’s name and grade and amount. Since snacks/supplies are sold on a daily basis students may choose to bring in small amounts of money (less than $5) for such purchases. If a student does bring money to school the money should be kept on the student’s person and not left in the school bag, coat pocket, lunch box, or desk. The school cannot be responsible for lost money.
Non-custodial Parent Release of Copies of report cards, school notices, etc.
In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide a non- custodial parent with access to academic records and other school information regarding your child. If there is a court order specifying that this should not happen, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a copy of the court order. Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such parents might be told to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency. Release of children Non-custodial parents may pick up a child only if previous arrangements have been made.
Parents as Partners Just as the parents look to the school to provide the facilities and the trained personnel that are essential to their child’s proper development, so the school looks to the parents to assume active responsibilities that cannot be delegated to others. No school can be wholly effective in teaching the values of religion and the virtues of honesty, respect for authority, consideration for the rights and property of others, and standards of personal morality and integrity unless these principles have been established, upheld, and valued in the home. If parents cooperate with the school, instill respect for the integrity of its teachers and administration, and actively support their authority in the home, this is likely to be reflected in the positive attitudes of their children. Parents are asked to take an active role in their child’s education by:
· recognizing their child’s talents and interests so they may be developed in cooperation with the classroom teachers.
The education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school. Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.
Parent Organizations A Home-School Organization provides an effective channel of communication between parents and teachers for the benefit of the students and the whole community. Its main purposes are: · to create mutual support and understanding between home and schooland thus bring about a total learning environment for students · to provide a means for keeping parents informed of school activities,programs, etc., and if any, parent service requirement
fund-raising activities
Philosophy and Goals St. Augustine School endorses the call of the Catholic Bishops of the United States to express its educational ministry through the three objectives of personal spirituality, social justice, and a strong academic program in accord with Christian values. This commitment extends to building Christian community and to fostering Christian service to the whole human family.
Promotion/Retention Policy Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student. Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives. If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade. Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, sometimes indicates that some students would benefit from the repetition of the school year. Therefore, the decision to retain a student presupposes that although the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress. The decision of the principal is final regarding promotion and retention.
Re-registration At the time of re-registration parents will be notified if their child is being invited to return to the school in September or if the child is not being invited back.
Release of Students (during school day)The school has a sign-out book located in the main office. Occasions for the use of a Sign-out book are:
School Calendar ST. AUGUSTINE SCHOOL CALENDAR 2005 – 2006
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER 7 First Friday School Mass Early Dismissal 11:30am 10 Columbus Day School Closed 12 Photographer/Individual/Class 13 Teachers’ Institute School Closed
1 All Saints Day School Closed 4 First Friday - Early dismissal: 11:30am 10 Catholic High School Entrance Exam for 8th graders 11 Veteran’s Day School Closed 17 Report Cards 16-17 Grade 5 NYS Social Studies Test 23 Early Dismissal: 11:30am 24-25 Thanksgiving Recess 28 School Resumes
DECEMBER 2 First Friday – Early dismissal: 11:30am 8 Feast of Immaculate Conception School Closed 9 School Closed 16 Christmas Choir Presentation: 7pm 23 Christmas recess begins Early Dismissal: 11:30 JANUARY 3 School Resumes 6 First Friday early dismissal 11:30
16 Martin Luther King, JR Holiday School Closed 17-20 Grade 8 NYS English Language Arts Exam January-February 1/29-2/3 Catholic Schools Week: Monday – Prayer Service – Parents Welcomed – 8:10 am Coffee & Donuts Tuesday – Grandparents Breakfast – 9:00am Wednesday – Open House – 9am-2pm Report Cards Gospel Choir Presentation – 2pm Thursday – Silly Hat Contest Friday - Teacher Appreciation Day
FEBRUARY 1 Report Cards (during Open House) 3 First Friday – Early Dismissal: 11:30am 20 President’s Day School Closed MARCH 3 First Friday – Early Dismissal: 11:30am
13-16 Gr. 8 NYS Math 17 St. Patrick’s Day School Closed
APRIL 5 Report Cards 7 First Friday – Early Dismissal: 11:30am 13 Easter Recess begins School Closed 24 School ResumesMAY 5 First Friday early dismissal 11:30am
Memorial Day ** Grade 4 & 8 NYS Science Test (tba)
JUNE 6 Archdiocesan Religion Exam Grades 3- 8 7&8 Grade 8 Social Studies NYS Test
23 Report Cards - last day of school 24 Graduation 10:00am in Church
__________________________________________________________ Please refer to the School Monthly Calendar for any revisions to this calendar. The dates for Parent Workshop Series, Sacramental Preparation Programs for Parents (First Holy Communion and Confirmation) will be announced later in the fall. The examination schedule for grades 3-8 will be sent to parents when dates have been finalized.
School’s Right to Amend St. Augustine School reserves the right to amend this handbook. Notice of amendments will be sent as necessary.
Security To assure the security of the building and the safety of each child, St. Augustine School strongly enforces its policy of requiring all visitors, even parents, to report to the office. To avoid interruption of the learning process, no one may enter a classroom without permission of the principal. Smoking New York State Law prohibits smoking in a school building and on school property. Smoking is prohibited at all times in the St. Augustine School building, on its parking lot and playing fields. This prohibition applies to faculty, staff, parents, and all visitors to the school. Special Learning Needs
Students with learning differences are children of God and members of the Church. St. Augustine School makes every effort to meet individual student needs. Sometimes, however, a student may have needs that do not permit him or her to benefit fully from the program. In those cases your child’s teacher and/or principal may schedule a meeting with you to discuss having an evaluation of your child’s learning needs. Such evaluations can be done through the local public school district, i.e., Committees on Special Education (CSE’s), or privately. Once the results of the evaluation are available the teacher and principal will meet with the parents to discuss the results of the evaluation and the recommendations. Summer School Since most summer schools offer reading, mathematics, and language arts, a student who has failed in one or more of these subjects in three marking periods of the report card will be required to take a remedial course during the summer. Summer school also may be recommended due to poor performance on standardized tests or in the classroom.
In May, a list of available summer schools in the Archdiocese will be available upon request. Whenever the administration becomes aware of quality programs suited to the specific needs of a child, the principal or the assistant principal will notify the parent directly. The summer school Report Card must be submitted to the office in September. Failure to attend summer school will result in retention. It is the parent’s responsibility to provide documentation that summer school has been successfully completed. In cases in which tutoring is allowed for the remediation, it must be undertaken by a qualified teacher.
Telecommunications Policy A Suggested Rules and Code of Ethics for St. Augustine School adapted from NCEA’s From the Chalkboard to the Chatroom. 1997 As a computer user, I agree to follow the rules and code of ethics in all of my work with computers while attending St. Augustine School. copies of software to others. I understand I will not be allowed to bring software applications, games, or CD-ROMS from home to be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate school personnel.
the privacy of theirs by not trying to learn their password; I will not copy, change, read, or use files from another user without prior permission from that user; I will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment; I will not use computer systems to disturb or harass other computer users or use inappropriate language in my communications.
use of the network. The use of the Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of the school. Students using network or computer resources must comply with the appropriate rules for that network or resource. As a user of a network, I will not use bulletin boards nor chat lines for personal use. In addition, I will not reveal my personal information, home address or personal phone number or those of students, teachers or other staff members. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.
network/bulletin board that they do not consider appropriate (vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.). The student is responsible for not pursuing material that could be considered offensive.
will result in the cancellation of these privileges. Vandalism or intentional modification of system settings will result in cancellation of privileges and/or school disciplinary action. The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific privileges. Violation of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously. Use of School Grounds St. Augustine School does not have staff available to supervise students present on the school grounds before 7:30 AM and after 3:10 PM. Students should not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:30 AM and parents must arrange to pick up at dismissal times. IN THOSE INSTANCES WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS PRIOR TO 7:30 AM, PARENTS MUST PROVIDE FOR THEIR CHILD’S PROTECTION AND SUPERVISION.
Withdrawals and Transfers A transfer request must be obtained from the school secretary. All books must bereturned. All bills must be paid before records are transferred to another school.
SUMMARY STATEMENT
Once students have met the necessary admission requirements and have been accepted in _______________ School, the school warmly welcomes these students for the coming school year and will strive to provide them with a solid Catholic spiritual and academic education in a supportive learning environment. Students and parents must always be mindful that attendance at _______________ School is by invitation. It is not a "right" because this is a private school. Admission to and continued enrollment in this school include responsibilities regarding conduct, both inside and outside the classroom and school, and students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a credit both to themselves and to their school.
In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline and character, St. Augustine School reserves the right, and students and parents or guardians concede to the school the right to require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient in the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. By the student’s attendance at the school, a student and his or her parents or guardians acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this handbook and agree to be bound by the terms of this handbook.
Students attending St. Augustine School relinquish certain rights they might otherwise be entitled to if they were attending a public school. For example, a student’s freedom of speech is limited in many important respects here at our school. Speech, either written or oral, contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, the teachings of the church or the directives of the local Bishop or Ordinary is prohibited, as is any other speech which is contrary or disruptive to the philosophy and purposes of our school. Another important right all students at St. Augustine School surrender involves searches and seizures. School administrators may search a student’s person and belongings if there is a reasonable belief, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances or inappropriate objects are being concealed. Any unauthorized items found may be seized. Additionally, student desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and the student to whom the desk or locker has been assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all. Students should have absolutely no expectation of privacy with regard to any item in their desks or lockers.
Another important right that a student and his or her parents or guardians give up when they decide to have a student attend this school is the right to sue the school, the parish or the Archdiocese of New York, and/or any individuals acting on behalf of the school, such as the school administrators, teachers, staff or any of their agents for any matter relating to academic or disciplinary decisions or other matters covered within this handbook. Each student and his or her parents or guardians, by their acceptance of enrollment at St. Augustine School agree to and accept the school’s rule and policy that students, parents and guardians may not bring any civil action in any local, state or federal court or in any administrative agency or body to challenge any school decision on academic or disciplinary matters, including any decision relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered within this handbook. Students and parents or guardians agree that any challenge to any school academic or disciplinary action or relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered in this handbook may only be challenged or appealed within the hierarchy of the school, subject to the limitations contained in this handbook. This includes any decision relating to a student’s enrollment at the school or termination of that enrollment.
While any student and his or her parents or guardians are of course free to consult with legal counsel regarding any school decision taken with respect to a student, the school emphasizes that students and parents or guardians are not permitted to have legal counsel present during any meetings with school administrators. School administrators are not obligated to meet with legal counsel at any time.
There are several grounds for disciplinary action or expulsion set forth in the "Discipline Codes" section of this handbook. It should be noted, however, that any listing of prohibited conduct is set forth by way of example only and to provide guidance to the student and his or her parents or guardians. It is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of improper conduct or resultant disciplinary action.
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