The Waverly School Middle & High School Parent/Student Handbook 2008-2009
Table of Contents
Mission and Philosophy…………………………………………..3
3…. Philosophy
3….Diversity and Personal Respect
Board of Directors………………………………………………...4
Administration and Staff Directory……………………………….5
School Faculty………………………………………………….....6-8
6…. Elementary School Faculty
7…. Middle School Faculty
8…. High School Faculty
School Calendar…………………………………………………...9-11
Parent Participation…………………………………………….…12
12…Waverly Parent Organization (WPO)
12… Work Hours
12… Annual Giving Fund and WPO-Sponsored Fundraising Events
13… WPO Committees and Events
14… School Day
Business Office Policies………………………………………….14
14… Payments
14… Enrollment Contracts
14… Early Departure from the School
15… Textbooks
Middle and High School Programs ……………………………...15
15… Middle School
15… High School
16… High School Graduation Requirements
16… Transcripts
17… Middle and High School Assessment
17… High School Standardized Testing
18… Support for Student Personal and Academic Growth
18… College Counseling
19… Community Service
19… Physical Education and Athletics
20… Overnight Trips
20… Field Trips
21… Student Club and Organizations
1
Academic Policies………………………..………………………22
22… Attendance
22… Excused Absences
23… Arriving Late and Leaving Early
24… Homework Policy
24… Add-Withdrawal Policy for High School Classes
24… Incompletes
24… Academic Dishonesty: Cheating and Plagiarism
24… Non-College Recommending and Failing Grades
25… Summer School Policy
25… Academic Probation
26… Admission to The Waverly High School
Expectations for Student Behavior……………………………….27
27… Basic School Rules
28… Dress Code
28… Off-Campus Policy
28… Middle School Off-Campus Lunch
28… High School Off-Campus Privileges
29… Student Valuables
29… Middle School Drop-Off and Pick-Up
30… High School Drop-Off and Pick-Up
30… Driving/Parking
31… Messages and Phones
31… Middle School Library
32… Computer Use Policy
32… Minor Violations of School Rules
33… Major Violations of School Rules
34… Consequences
General Information….…………………………………………...35
35… Communication
36… Health
37… Emergency Preparedness
2
Mission and Philosophy
Philosophy
Based on the findings of Jean Piaget and the teachings of John Dewey, Waverly’s educational
philosophy asserts that students learn best when they are actively involved in their education,
when they become responsible for their growth as students, when they are expected to work at
the highest level of which they are capable, and when their learning is based on life experiences.
Children and young adults learn in developmental stages; Waverly aims to have each student
satisfactorily complete each stage before moving on.
The educational program at Waverly incorporates all aspects of human development —
intellectual, social, physical, aesthetic, and moral — and strives to integrate learning by guiding
students to be curious about all that the world has to offer. Waverly students build skills in
mathematics, reading, writing, and critical thinking, while developing an appreciation for the
arts, humanities, and sciences. Students develop a strong sense of themselves as individuals and
as members of a close community.
Waverly is a small community, permitting students and faculty to know one another well.
Frequent group work in classes enables students to teach and learn from one another. All
students experience working individually, in small groups, and as a whole class. This close
community allows teachers to create developmentally appropriate and interdisciplinary curricula.
The Waverly School is committed to the creation and maintenance of a peaceful and secure
atmosphere, and to the non-violent resolution of problems and conflicts. Social development
issues are addressed as students learn how to get along and be responsible within the school
community. Waverly does not permit students to insult, cruelly tease bully or physically harm
one another.
The school believes it is essential for students to develop a commitment to the larger community.
Through the curriculum and the school’s community service program, it is our goal that students
recognize the importance of their active participation in local, state, national, and global issues.
With a rich educational program as a foundation, students can contribute positively to the world
in which they live.
Diversity and Personal Respect
The Waverly School embraces diversity and values the integrity of the individual. Individual
differences of religion, national origin, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status,
culture, gender, and physical appearance are acknowledged and respected. Every member of the
community strives to behave in a sensitive, tolerant, and respectful manner.
A diverse student body is an essential component of an experiential education. Students are most
able to understand, appreciate, and respect differences in a setting that includes these differences.
Waverly seeks a diverse community in order to fulfill its mission to provide a strong, humanistic
education for all students.
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Board of Directors
Nella Abelson
Michael Alvarez
Brence Culp
Annaly Bennett
Ellen Greenstone
Heidi Johnson
Deveney Kelly
Eve Kikawa, Chair
Debbie Lennon
Charles Loveman
Kathleen Loya
Merrily Murray-Walsh
Anne Stabolepszy
Tom Walsh
Justin Wolf
4
Administration and Staff Directory
Head of School
Heidi Johnson
[email protected]
College Counselor
Elaine Lass
[email protected]
Head of Lower School
Terri Battenburg
[email protected]
Registrar
Deborah Clark Yeseta
[email protected]
Middle School Dean of Students
Lisa Groening
[email protected]
Administrative Assistant—
Elementary School
Martha Ramirez Adams
[email protected]
High School Dean of Students
Heather Brunold
[email protected]
Receptionist & Administrative
Assistant— Elementary School
Alison M. Hoffarth
[email protected]
Business & Facilities Manager
Tracey Fiss
[email protected]
Administrative Assistant— Middle School
Margaret Lopez
[email protected]
Accounts Manager
Cindy Andrade
[email protected]
Receptionist & Administrative
Assistant — High School
Molly Rodgveller
[email protected]
Admissions Director
Jennifer Dakan
[email protected]
Athletic Director
Janice Bini
[email protected]
Development Director
Kimberly Uribe
[email protected]
5
Elementary School Faculty
Young Kindergarten
Marina Dahlen – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Cheenu Kashyap & Martha Ramirez Adams – Assistant Teachers
[email protected], [email protected]
Kindergarten
Richard Cervantes – Head Teacher Liz Emery – Head Teacher
[email protected]
[email protected]
First Grade
Susan Roco – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Maria Brown– Assistant Teacher
mariab@ the waverlyschool.org
First/Second Grades
Melissa Maxfield – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Sonia Guerrero – Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Second/Third Grades
Tina Landesman – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Kristin Lee – Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Third/Fourth Grades
Erin Palfrey – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Kerry Marhefka – Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Fourth/Fifth Grades
Mike Strusinski – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Hypatia Luna – Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Fifth/Sixth Grades
Cheri Siddons – Head Teacher
[email protected]
Molly Davidson- Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Spanish
Adriana Duarte
[email protected]
Librarian
Wendy Cross
[email protected]
Art
Hypatia Luna
[email protected]
Instrumental Music
Ernie Salcedo
[email protected]
Physical Education
Eddie Thomas
[email protected]
Vocal Music
Michael & Josie Olson
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Brittany Reynolds – Assistant Teacher
[email protected]
Middle School Faculty
Mandy Boesche
Drama
[email protected]
Toby McDonald Chou
Science, Japanese
[email protected]
Adriana Duarte
Spanish
[email protected]
Constance Pohlman
Art
[email protected]
Lisa Groening
English
[email protected]
Ernie Salcedo
Music
[email protected]
Billy Hackett
Mathematics, Physical Education
[email protected]
Eddie Thomas
Physical Education
[email protected]
Margaret Lopez
English, Creative Writing
[email protected]
Bennel Thompkins
History
[email protected]
7
High School Faculty
Mandy Boesche
Drama
[email protected]
Myriam LeGoff-Monterrosa
French I-V, A.P.French
[email protected]
Dan Bowen
Ancient History, History of Ideas, Ethics
[email protected]
Katherine Perkins
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
[email protected]
Rebecca Figueroa
Constance Pohlman
Visual Arts
[email protected]
American Literature, British Literature,
Publications
[email protected]
Maria Robertson
Spanish I-V, A.P. Spanish
[email protected]
Tony Garza
Chemistry, Biology, Neurobiology
[email protected]
Amy Sedivy
Ancient Literature, Postmodern Literature,
Monster as Metaphor, Creative Writing
[email protected]
Guy Hallman
Evolution of the Universe, A.P. Biology,
Music
[email protected]
Bernie Weinraub
U.S. History, A.P. U.S. History, Facing
History and Ourselves
[email protected]
Jack Knight
Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, A.P. Calculus,
A.P. Physics
[email protected]
8
School Calendar 2008-2009
Please check the website and your e-mails for updates.
August
25
Varsity Girls’ Volleyball practice begins
26
Ninth Grade Orientation at high school; 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
27-29 Elementary and Middle School class parties
September
2
First day of school- No After School Camp (ASC) available
5
Picture Day, 9:30 a.m. (E.S., M.S., H.S. individual portraits; 7th -12th and Staff/Faculty ID’s)
9
Middle School and High School Sports Night at 6:30 p.m.
13
ACT Test+
15
Middle School Boys’ Flag Football and Middle School Girls’ Volleyball practices begin
16
High School Back to School Night, 7:00 p.m. (parents/guardians only)
18
Middle School Back to School Night 7:00 p.m.
(parents/guardians only)
22
Twelfth Grade College Night, 7:00 p.m.
23
Elementary School Back to School Night 7:00 p.m.
(parents/guardians only)
26
All School and Class Photo Day, 9:00 a.m.; Make-up Photo Day
October
3
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
4
Waverly Adult/Varsity Golf Tournament
4
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
9
Yom Kippur; no school; no YK day care; ASC available *
13-15 Fall Book Fair
16
Volleyball Spirit Game
18
PSAT testing: 10th and 11th grades
25
ACT Test+
26
Halloween Party
30-31 E.S./M.S./H.S. Parent/Teacher Conferences; no school
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available *
November
1
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
7
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
10
Varsity Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball practices begin
12
Eighth Grade Parent Night, 7:00 p.m.
19
Sixth Grade Parent Night, 7:00 p.m.
21
Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon
21
Waverly World Market Craft Day
24
Faculty vs. Varsity Basketball game
26-28 Thanksgiving Holiday
No YK day care; After School Camp (ASC) available 11/26 *
9
December
5
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; community room
6
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
8
Middle School Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball practices begin
10
Sixth grade/Eighth grade student visitation day
12
Waverly World Market
13
ACT Test+
18
School dismissed at 12:00 p.m.; Holiday Concert at 7:00 p.m.
19- Jan. 4 Winter Break
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available */**
January
5
School resumes
9
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
13
Eleventh Grade College Night, 7:00 p.m.
16
No School for E.S. only (E.S. faculty work day)
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available *
19
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday; no school; no YK day care or ASC
23
End of first semester
24
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
27
Basketball Spirit Game
30
No school for M.S. & H.S. only (M.S./H.S. faculty work day)
February
TBA Girls’ Swim practices begin
1
Applications due for new students
1
Financial aid applications due from new and
returning families
6
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
7
ACT Test+
16
President’s Day; no school; no YK day care; ASC available*
17
Varsity Boys’ Baseball practices begin
19
Board/Faculty Reception
23
Middle School Boys’ Baseball practices begin
27
Contracts due from current families
March
3
6
6
13
Tenth Grade College Night, 7:00 p.m.
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
Admissions notification
E.S./M.S./H.S. Parent/Teacher Conferences; no school
(Students in grades 1-6 are included in conferences)
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available *
14
SAT 1 only+
16
E.S. Parent/Teacher Conferences; no school for E.S. only
(Students in grades 1-6 are included in conferences)
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available *
30- April 6
Spring Break
10
April
4
7
10
22
26
May
TBA
1
2
4-15
17
22
25
June
1
2
4
6
13
ACT Test+
School Resumes
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
Baseball Exhibition
Silent Auction
Middle School and High School Sports Awards Night
WPO Meeting, 9:30 a.m.; Community Room
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
High School A.P. exams
Jogathon
Faculty Work Day; no school
YK day care and After School Camp (ASC) available *
Memorial Day; no school; no YK day care or ASC
H.S. Senior Projects, 6:00 p.m.; High School
E.S. Open House, 7:00 p.m.
Sixth and Eighth Grade Graduation, 10:00 a.m.; all students must be picked up by 12:00 p.m.; no
YK day care or ASC available
Twelfth Grade Graduation, 6:00 p.m.
SAT & SAT II/Subject Tests+
ACT Test+
+ ACT, SAT and SAT II/Subject Tests: students should work with registrar and college counselor to determine when
to take the exams.
* Given sufficient enrollment.
** May be at a different location.
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Parent Participation
Waverly’s growth and success is due in large part to the generosity and active participation of
our parents. As in the past, Waverly will need the support of all members of the community
during the 2008-2009 school year.
Waverly Parent Organization (WPO)
All Waverly parents are members of the WPO. General meetings and committee meetings are
announced in the school calendar, special bulletins, and on the WPO bulletin board. The WPO
welcomes and encourages involvement and participation. Questions about WPO or specific
committees should be directed to WPO Co-Presidents, Susan Cadiff and Ann Stabolepszy.
Work Hours
Each Waverly family is committed to work at least 20 hours in the school each year. Families
not fulfilling their commitment will be charged $30 per hour on their May, 2009 tuition
statement. All Waverly parents are members of the Waverly Parent Organization (WPO) and are
expected to complete part of the required hours working on WPO-sponsored events and
activities, which are listed on the next page.
Annual Giving Fund and WPO-Sponsored Fundraising Events
The Annual Fund and WPO-sponsored fundraising events raise the funds needed to close the
annual tuition shortfall in the operating budget. Every dollar raised goes directly to pay for
teachers’ salaries and benefits, program expenses, and Waverly’s financial aid program.
All parents are expected to participate to the best of their ability in the Annual Fund. Every gift,
no matter its size, helps the school meet its operating expenses. Parents are also expected to
support The World Market (December) and The Silent Auction (April) by working on the
committees, staffing the events, making or soliciting donated items to be sold, or simply
attending the events and having a wonderful time! With 100% participation in The Annual
Fund, The World Market and The Silent Auction, we will certainly meet our fundraising goals
while we also come together as a cohesive community.
If you haven’t already, please take the following steps right now –
•
As you plan your charitable giving for the rest of 2008, please keep the Waverly Annual
Giving Fund in mind and consider making your major donation this year to The Waverly
School.
•
Mark December 12, 2008 and April 26, 2008 on your calendar today so that you will be
available to attend The World Market and Silent Auction. Tell your friends and family
members about these great events now and ask them to save the dates.
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WPO Committees and Events
Please refer to The Wave each week, flyers, all school meeting announcements, and e-mail
messages for ongoing information about these events throughout the school year.
Fall Book Fair: Monday, October 13- Wednesday, October 15, 2008; three to four day event with
volunteer opportunities before, during, and after the event; possible tasks include: planning and
organizing the event as a member of the committee, set-up, liaison with vendor, staffing during
the event, organization of books, and clean-up. Time required depends on task chosen.
Halloween Party: Sunday, October 26, 2008; one-time event with most work occurring the
weekend of the party; possible tasks include: planning and organizing the event as a member of
the committee, creating and setting up the haunted house, baking for and working at the Boo
Bakery, creating and staffing a “booth” such as the Witches’ Kitchen or the Fortune Teller,
setting up, and/or cleaning up. Time required depends on task chosen.
Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon: Friday, November 21, 2008; one-time fall event with most
work occurring the day before and the day of the luncheon; possible tasks include planning and
organizing as a member of the committee, cooking, serving, hosting, set-up, and clean-up. Time
required depends on task chosen.
World Market: Friday, December 12, 2008; one of two major fundraisers requiring the efforts of
many on tasks both large and small; possible tasks include planning and organizing as a member
of the committee, working in a classroom to help students create items to be sold, soliciting
donations of items to be sold, creating items to be sold, set-up, staffing on day of the event, and
clean-up. Time required depends on task chosen.
Silent Auction: Sunday, April 26, 2009; one of the two major fundraisers requiring the efforts of
many on tasks both large and small; possible tasks include planning and organizing as a member
of the committee, soliciting items to be sold, creating or donating items to be sold, catering or
working with caterers, set-up, staffing on the day of the event, and clean-up. Time required
depends on task chosen.
Jogathon/Carnival: Sunday, May 17, 2009; one-time spring event that requires the work of many
on the day of the event; possible tasks include planning and organizing as a member of the
committee, set-up, selling tickets, staffing booths, cooking and serving food, and clean-up. Time
required depends on task chosen.
Waverly Organic Farm Committee: serve as advisor to Head of School on farm use; participate
in farm maintenance days (usually three Saturdays per year); work with classes on activities at
farm. Time required varies from two to five hours per month.
Graduation Committee: Thursday, June 4, 2009; one-time event with most work occurring the
day of or days prior to event; possibly attend one planning meeting to coordinate efforts; help
decorate, set-up chairs, food and drink service for informal reception, and clean-up. Time
required depends on task chosen.
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High School Committee: support students in organizing social events; help with upkeep of
student store; bring treats for students on holidays; liaison between school and parents regarding
field trips, school events, and fundraising; attend committee meetings; create high school
newsletter. Time required varies from two to five hours per month.
School Day
Elementary and Middle School Room Parent: two per class; year-long commitment; liaison
between teacher and class parents regarding field trips, class events, and fundraising; organize
class phone tree; organize and carry out plans for class parties; approximately five hours per
month.
Office Helper: substitute for full day in front office when receptionist is absent.
Library: assist the school librarian as needed with processing of books and/or class library time.
One to two hours per week on a regularly scheduled day and time.
Business Office Policies
Payments
Tuition is due, in full, on June 1 for families who elect to pay the complete tuition prior to the
beginning of the school year. Families who pay tuition in full may, at their option, purchase
tuition insurance.
Families may elect to pay tuition in eleven monthly installments: June through May, excepting
March when Registration Deposits are due. Families who elect to pay tuition in monthly
installments are required to purchase tuition insurance. Tuition is due on the first day of every
month. If payment is not received in full by the fifth day of the month, an administrative fee of
$25.00 will be added to the account.
Enrollment Contracts
Contracts for returning families are due along with a $1,000 Registration Deposit on February
27, 2009. The Registration Deposit is not refundable for any reason and no exceptions will be
made. If a family turns in the contract and the Registration Deposit and later decides that the
student will not attend The Waverly School, the family must notify the Head of School in writing
before June 1, 2009. On June 1, the obligation to pay the entire year’s tuition and fees becomes
fixed and irrevocable.
Early Departure from the School
If a student is leaving the school prior to the end of the school year, the student’s family must
notify the Head of School in writing, preferably thirty days before the student’s departure. The
family is responsible for the entire year’s tuition and fees. If the family has purchased tuition
14
insurance, the plan will pay benefits to the school which will provide substantial assistance to the
family in meeting this financial obligation.
Textbooks
As part of their tuition, parents pay for textbooks. Students are expected to maintain books in
good condition at all times. Textbooks and novels are required classroom materials and should
be stored in student lockers and/or at home when not in use. Teachers may lower a student’s
grade if a student is not prepared for class on a regular basis and/or if the condition of the
textbook makes it difficult for a student to learn. Students who lose or damage a textbook will
be expected to purchase a new one in a timely manner at additional expense.
Middle and High School Programs
Middle School
The Waverly Middle School program is built on our belief that students in seventh and eighth
grade require a unique approach to their education. Our students work with five core teachers
who teach multiple subjects throughout the school day and are readily available to students. This
approach meets the curricular demands of middle school while supporting the growth of our
students.
Middle School Curriculum
The beginnings of adolescence require creativity, caring, and a rich, engaging curriculum to
bring out the best in students. In alternating years of our multi-disciplinary program, students
study American History and World History. The history theme is then integrated into other core
subjects. Novel selections in English, for example, are related to the time period or region
studied in history class. Middle school science classes follow an intensive, hands-on curriculum
designed to prepare students for a demanding laboratory science program in high school. The
math program in the Middle School offers three different classes suited to each student’s ability.
Advanced students are able to take Algebra I for high school credit in grade 8.
Each Friday afternoon, teachers plan whole group activities that bring the entire middle school
together. Typical activities include mock trials, debates, speakers, and simulations. The
activities provide opportunities for students to work with different people and discuss important
issues in a large forum. Fridays are also ideal days for student-led activities. In the weekly class
meetings, students propose ideas to their classmates, and, if the ideas are accepted, plan and
implement them.
High School
Waverly High School is a tight-knit community offering a challenging college preparatory
program. Students thrive in an environment which values inquiry, debate, creativity, and critical
thinking. Teachers work closely with students to help them develop these habits of mind in all
15
subject areas. At Waverly, we believe that all students can be scholars. Teachers set high
standards and encourage students to develop as intellectuals.
High School Curriculum
Graduation requirements exceed the minimum entrance requirements of the University of
California. The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement and Honors courses; all
courses are approved by the University of California. As a result, Waverly graduates are wellprepared for the college application process. Most importantly, the teaching methods of the
Waverly faculty produce students well-prepared for the academic demands of college.
Advanced Placement Classes
Several courses, particularly in the humanities and sciences, can be taken for Advanced
Placement (A.P.) credit. The requirements for Advanced Placement include an increased and
more difficult reading load, additional meeting time with the teacher, and a commitment to
intense independent study. All students enrolled in an A.P. class must take the A.P. exam in
order to receive A.P. credit on their transcripts. Furthermore, the teacher of the course must feel
confident that a student has worked to the best of his/her ability and that s/he has met the
requirements of the course before allowing a student to take the A.P. exam. A.P. exams cost
approximately $80.00 and are paid for by the student.
High School Graduation Requirements
The Waverly High School requires 22 credits for graduation. One credit is the equivalent of a
year long course. Graduation requirements include:
English
History
Math
Science
Foreign Language
Visual/Performing Arts
Advanced Coursework
Physical Education
Community Service
4 credits
4 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
2 credits
3 credits
2 years
60 hours (15 hours per year to be completed during the school year)
Transcripts
Classes for credit taken at other schools are not included on the transcripts or in the calculation
of the Waverly G.P.A. Colleges and universities will accept transcripts from the institutions
where the other classes were taken and will calculate the G.P.A. accordingly. If you want to
request a transcript, please request it in writing by regular mail or email and please direct your
request to the Registrar. Transcript requests can take up to five business days. Please plan your
requests in advance.
16
Middle and High School Assessment
Waverly believes that a focus on letter grades distracts students from the most important
elements of their education. At Waverly Middle and High School, emphasis is on individual
academic progress rather than grades. Teachers write extensive narrative analyses of student
work and cumulative progress reports twice a year. These are designed to provide insight into
the intellectual development of each student.
For the purposes of college admissions, letter grades are recorded on a cumulative transcript for
high school students. These grades are made available to students and parents in Eleventh grade.
Eleventh grade and twelfth grade students receive grades for each class to help them prepare for
the college application process. Students in Ninth and tenth grade receive their cumulative GPA
at the end of each school year.
The school believes that extensive communication between teachers, parents, and students is
essential for academic success. As a result, the school regularly engages in the following forms
of communication with parents and students:
1. Two conferences per year (1 per semester) – 1st is mandatory, 2nd is at the request of the
teacher or family
2. Two semester reports per year (beginning of February and end of June) consisting of a
checklist and detailed narrative assessment
3. High school quarterly reports consisting of checklists and brief comments
4. High school D/F notices whenever a student is in danger of failing the class
5. A minimum of four middle school monthly/bi-monthly reports (checklist and brief
comments – including number of missed assignments and indicating readiness for high
school)
6. Frequent email communication to notify parents of academic/behavior issues when
necessary
7. Optional conferences at parent’s or teacher’s request throughout the year
High School Standardized Testing
The PSAT is administered at Waverly on Saturday, October 18, 2008. All tenth and eleventh
grade students take the PSAT. Results are sent to the school. The college counselor then sends
individual results home. The college counselor and/or the English and math teachers discuss the
results with each student in individual meetings. The PSAT provides valuable experience in
taking standardized tests.
Students in grades 10-12 should work with the Registrar and college counselor to determine
when to take the SAT and SAT II exams.
Advanced Placement Exams will begin on May 4, 2009 and end on May 15, 2009. All students
enrolled in an A.P. class must take the A.P. exam in order to receive A.P. credit on their
transcripts.
17
Support for Student Personal and Academic Growth
At Waverly, many of our core faculty members teach in more than one discipline. As a result,
students see their teachers more than once in the course of a day. The additional student-teacher
contact facilitates the supportive relationship that is essential for academic success during
adolescence.
The close contact and low teacher-student ratios allow teachers to take an active role in
supporting the emotional well-being of students. Supporting students’ social and emotional
development helps students to reach their academic potential.
Teachers integrate issues that students face into class discussion, choice of novels, and texts.
The teachers give writing assignments that ask students to reflect, analyze, make ethical choices,
understand others’ perspectives, and address personal goals and choices they have made.
Teachers often make reference to current events so that students make connections between what
they are studying and what is happening in the world around them.
The Head of School and Dean of Students hold formal weekly team meetings with the teachers
to discuss individual students and any whole group issues.
High school students and faculty have a short assembly mid-morning to listen to and make
announcements and to discuss issues as they come up. In addition, middle and high school
students have longer assemblies during the week in which important issues are planned and
discussed. This is also a time for seminars and guest speakers.
In addition, the faculty and administration have implemented the following programs to support
student personal and academic growth:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Middle School Girls’ and Boys’ Clubs
Grade level advisors
Wellness education classes and workshops
Overnight field trips
College Counseling
Sophomore students and parents are encouraged to attend Sophomore College Night, led by the
college counselor, to begin thinking about college options and to learn about the standardized
testing process.
Students are introduced to the specifics of the college application and selection process in the
spring of their junior year. In a College Night workshop led by the college counselor, the juniors
learn which factors they should consider when looking for a college and begin to reflect on their
options, preferences, and interests. Following College Night, the juniors go on a college visit
field trip as a group. Junior students and parents are required to meet with the college counselor
during the spring semester.
During the fall of the senior year, students are carefully guided by the college counselor as they
complete the selection and application process. Waverly’s primary goal is to assist each student
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in the selection of a college, university, or alternative path that best suits the student’s interests,
abilities, and talents.
Community Service
Waverly is committed to community service and to making a positive contribution to local
communities. All students are expected to complete 15 hours of service during the school year.
In grades 7-10, the school will facilitate student community service by publicizing local events
and encouraging students to sign up for service within The Waverly School. Students may also
do work with organizations with which they have a personal connection or interest. In addition,
students are encouraged to meet with the appropriate Dean of Students for advice or direction as
they choose their service projects. All hours must be recorded on a completed community
service form available and submitted to the appropriate Dean of Students.
Physical Education and Athletics
The goal of The Waverly School physical education program is to equip students with the
knowledge, skills, values, and enthusiasm to maintain a healthy lifestyle into adulthood.
Activities included in the program are designed to promote physical fitness, to develop motor
skills, to instill knowledge and understanding of rules, concepts, and strategies, and to teach
students to work as part of a team, or as individuals, in a variety of activities.
All students in the 9th and 10th grades are required to complete physical education units. Given
the varying needs of our community, The Waverly School provides three options for fulfilling
the physical education requirement: participation on a school team, documented participation in
a club sport or class outside of school, or participation in physical education classes at Waverly
during or after school.
The Athletics program at The Waverly School allows students to compete at the middle school
and high school level in three seasons (fall, winter, spring). Middle school students compete in
the Foothill League. High school students compete in the International League, which is
affiliated with the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Students compete in flag football,
volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, golf, and swimming. A co-ed track club is also offered.
There is an Athlete Fee of $100 per year. The fee partially covers facilities, referees, and
equipment.
The following are requirements for athletic participation:
1. All athletes are required to complete medical examinations prior to first practice and
competition.
2. Athletes must have a transportation permission slip on file.
3. All athletes must be in good academic standing (2.0 average or above) to remain eligible
for competition.
4. Athletes must be present at school throughout the day of a contest in order to compete.
5. All athletes are required to attend all practices and games and must adhere to team rules
as communicated by their team coaches.
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Athletes and their parents are encouraged to attend sports nights where coaches will discuss
schedules, expectations, and answer questions; and awards night, which recognizes team and
individual accomplishments.
Overnight Trips
The school’s trips are designed to have students enjoy and learn about the wilderness, challenge
themselves individually, and work as a team, and to bring students and faculty together away
from the pressures of school. For these reasons, the trips are mandatory. Unless there is a
medical reason why a student should not attend, it is expected that all students will participate.
Appropriate behavior is required on all trips. Students who participate in behavior or activities
that are illegal or in violation of the school’s rules will be sent home. Parents of such students
will be called and are expected to come to the trip site to pick up their child and take him/her
home. Further disciplinary action may include parent conference, loss of privileges, work within
the school, behavior contracts, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion.
Parent Chaperones
Occasionally trips require a few adults in addition to the teachers; in this case, the teachers invite
a small number of parents to assist them in chaperoning the trip. The school greatly appreciates
the willingness of parents to chaperone class trips.
These trips are an important extension of the educational program at Waverly. It is important for
all chaperones to participate in activities to set a good example for the students. All parent
chaperones are expected to assist with the supervision of the students and to follow the lead of
the teacher in charge of the trip. Parent chaperones should not provide special opportunities or
treats, which are not available to other students on the trip, for their own children.
Due to safety and liability concerns, Waverly has a no-alcohol rule for all adults on school trips.
Field Trips
Regular field trips are integrated into the curriculum at all levels throughout the school year,
reinforcing what is being taught and enabling students to see and move beyond the physical
classroom.
To make it possible for our classes to travel to field trip locations we need the participation of
our parents to provide transportation and supervision. Room parents arrange transportation with
guidance from the classroom teacher.
Field trip drivers are required to have seat belts for all passengers and adequate insurance. All
field trip drivers must read and complete the field trip driver’s form prior to driving on any field
trips.
1. Drivers are responsible for having proper insurance, well-maintained vehicles, and
sufficient fuel.
2. Drivers are responsible for the safety of students in their cars.
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3. All drivers must have cell phones or be accompanied by another adult with a cell phone.
4. Siblings are not allowed on field trips.
5. Drivers may not stop for gasoline or to run errands on field trips, or buy or give any
snacks to the students whom they are transporting.
6. Drivers must follow all instructions of the teacher in charge during the field trip.
7. All drivers need to check in with the head teacher or administrator before departing for
the field trip and immediately upon arrival at their destination.
8. Drivers should remain with the group during the field trip (but should maintain a low
profile to ensure that students have opportunities for full participation).
9. Drivers must follow the route outlined by the teachers or room parent.
Basic first aid equipment and emergency phone numbers are taken on all field trips;
supplemental medical equipment or supplies are not taken on any trips, except for prescribed
medication when necessary.
Student Clubs and Organizations
Student councils are elected by their peers. In general, the student council seeks to enrich the
school experience for all students. The student council takes responsibility for planning special
student events, organizing decision-making groups, fundraising, and peer mediation. They also
lead or present at weekly all school meetings.
The Waverly School believes that students should be given maximum opportunities to pursue
their interests and to demonstrate leadership. As a result, our student clubs and organizations
change every year depending on student initiative and interest. Most middle and high school
students participate in a student group each year. Meetings are held at lunch and/or after school.
Past Student Clubs and Organizations:
Amnesty International
Archery Team
Bollywood Dance Team
Community Service Club
Cooking Club
Dance Club
Debate Team
Environmental Group (affiliated with Roots
and Shoots)
Fencing Club
French Club
Gay Straight Alliance
Interscholastic Equestrian Team
Japanese Club
Jewish Student Union
Literary Journal
Music Club
Politics Club
Running Club
Social Events Off-Campus
Social Events On-Campus
Yearbook Committee
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Academic Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance and punctual arrival at school are essential to a solid education. Students
should not be absent or late except in the case of illness or family emergency. Medical and
dental appointments should not be scheduled during school hours unless absolutely necessary.
Regular attendance insures that students have the opportunity to master new skills and concepts,
and actively participate in all classroom activities. At Waverly all students experience working
individually, in small groups, and as a whole class. Frequent group work and class discussions
enable students to teach and learn from one another. When a student is unnecessarily tardy or
absent our learning environment is disrupted and our entire community is negatively affected.
In addition to teaching students about responsibility, arriving on time gives students
opportunities for valuable social interactions before school starts, initial contact with peers and
teachers, and the chance to participate in the morning meetings with which each class starts the
day. Students should arrive no later than 8:20 a.m. in order to enter the classroom with their
classmates.
Eight or more absences or tardies in one semester in a single class can result in a lower course
grade, loss of credit for a course, and/or academic probation. Attendance records, including
tardies, are part of each student’s permanent record; this information will be reflected on all
formal student assessments.
Parents will be notified with an initial letter if a pattern of unexcused tardies or absences is noted
on the student’s attendance record at any time during the school year. If the rate of tardies and/or
absences continues without improvement, the parents will receive another communication
including an outline of attendance responsibilities. If necessary, a meeting with the site
administrator will be scheduled to determine a family attendance action plan and discuss the
possibility of withholding the re-enrollment contract. All attendance communication will be
placed in the student’s permanent file.
Excused Absences
Absences due to illness, emergency, death in the family, religious commitments, medical
appointments or for school-sponsored events are considered excused. Seniors are excused from
school for up to three days in order to visit colleges outside of the immediate area.
All other absences are unexcused. There are disciplinary and academic consequences for
unexcused absences. Please refer to the section on Behavior.
Procedures to follow in the event of an absence:
1. Parents should call the school before 9:00 a.m. to explain the reason for each day’s
absence.
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2. If a call is not made, a note from a parent or guardian confirming the reason for the
absence must be presented to the school receptionist the day of a student’s return for an
absence to be excused. Without the note, absences will be considered unexcused.
3. If a student is absent for one day, s/he should contact another student from the class to get
all assignments. In the case of handouts or other materials, the student must make
arrangements to get work on the day of his/her return.
4. If a student is absent for two days or more, the student or parent may e-mail the
appropriate teachers to make arrangements for work. Do not contact the Dean of
Students.
5. Except in serious situations, absent students are not excused from any assignments or
tests.
Arriving Late and Leaving Early
Late arrivals
Middle and High school classes start promptly at 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Students
arriving after 8:30 a.m. any day of the week must go directly to the reception desk and sign in.
Leaving school early
Twelfth grade students may (with a signed permission form from their parents) leave school
during lunch or study blocks. They must sign in/out at the reception desk and note the time.
Students who fail to sign in or out, return late to classes, or abuse this privilege will lose it. They
also face possible disciplinary consequences.
For other students leaving school early, the following procedure applies:
1. The student must bring a note signed by a parent granting permission to leave during the
school day. A parent may also e-mail the permission to the appropriate Dean of Students by
9:00 a.m. that morning. The note must include the reason for missing classes. A parent
cannot give permission for off-campus lunch except on Fridays.
2. The student must submit the note to the receptionist before being allowed to leave. The
student must sign out. Without a note or prior e-mail, we cannot allow a student to leave
school.
3. Permission to leave cannot be arranged during the school day except in the case of illness. In
the case of illness, the receptionist or Dean of Students will call and speak with a student’s
parents.
4. Parents picking up their child must come in to the building to do so and speak with the
receptionist before signing a child out.
5. Students leaving early must wait inside the building.
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Homework Policy
Homework is an essential aspect of learning. Students are expected to be motivated and
responsible learners who complete their homework and turn it in on time. A student who
consistently fails to turn in assigned homework will meet with the appropriate Dean of Students.
Consequences may include, but are not limited to, loss of off-campus lunch/junior/senior
privilege, a structured study schedule, a lower course grade and/or not receiving credit for a
course, and/or Academic Probation.
Add-Withdrawal Policy for High School Classes
If a student wants to add or withdraw from a class, they may do so, if the schedule permits, either
before school begins or during the first three weeks of a semester. This policy applies to all
classes, including arts classes. In order to do this, students must submit an Add/Withdraw
Course Form, signed by a parent or guardian, the teacher(s) involved, and the Dean of Students,
to the registrar.
If a student is permitted to drop a class after the first quarter, the course will be included on the
student’s transcript with a “W” to indicate the withdrawal.
Incompletes
An incomplete will be granted at the end of a semester or school year only in the event of serious
illness or personal emergency. The incomplete must be approved by the Dean of Students and
definite dates for the completion of work will be set.
Academic Dishonesty: Cheating and Plagiarism
Waverly expects honesty of all its students at all times. The school expects that all work turned
in by a student is the product of the student’s efforts.
Academic dishonesty on nightly homework will lead to a meeting with the Dean of Students to
determine the appropriate consequences. The student’s evaluations and year-end course grade
may be negatively affected. The student’s parents will be notified.
Academic dishonesty on papers, tests and exams will result in failure of the paper, test, or exam
and academic probation. A second breech of academic dishonesty during the student’s career
will result in non-renewal or expulsion unless there are extraordinary mitigating circumstances.
Cases of suspected cheating on tests will be reported to the Dean of Students so that a record
may be kept and acted on if a pattern develops.
Non-College Recommending and Failing Grades
If a student is in danger of receiving a non-college recommending (D+, D, D-) or failing (F)
grade in a course, s/he will receive a D/F Notice. The student is expected to make immediate
changes to his/her work; the student’s parents are expected to support and monitor these changes.
A student may receive a non-college recommending or failing grade without having received a
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D/F Notice if the student fails to hand in a major assignment at the end of a grading period
and/or fails the final exam.
A student with a non-college recommending or failing grade in an academic course will be
required to repeat the class and earn a grade of C or above. The student will not be able to repeat
the course during the regular school year and will be required to attend summer school.
A student who fails two or more academic classes cannot be promoted to the next grade and thus
may be dismissed from the school.
Summer School Policy
A student may not satisfy a Waverly graduation requirement by taking a course at another school
during the summer without prior approval from the subject teacher(s), the Registrar, and the
Dean of Students. If a student takes a summer course at a school other than Waverly, the
transcript from the class will be included in the student’s file. The grade and credits earned will
not appear on the Waverly Transcript and will not be included in the student’s Waverly grade
point average.
Academic Probation
A student is placed on academic probation if the student’s grades include, or are in significant
danger of including, one or more of the following:
1. A failing grade (F) in any course
2. Two or more academic courses with grades of C- or below
3. An overall average of C- or below in academic classes
When a student is placed on academic probation, s/he and his/her parents will receive a letter
outlining the causes and terms of the probation and a probationary contract. A student placed on
academic probation is expected to make immediate changes to significantly improve his/her
academic performance; the student’s parents are expected to support and monitor these changes.
A student on probation will not be allowed to participate in off-campus lunch, junior privileges,
or senior privileges, and may be excluded from sports, other after-school activities, and certain
class activities at the school’s sole discretion.
Mid-Year Placement on Academic Probation and Consequences for Re-Enrollment
If a student’s grades are in significant danger of falling into one or more of the categories listed
above, s/he will be placed on academic probation; this may happen at any point in the school
year. A student placed on academic probation during the first semester will not receive a reenrollment contract in January for the following year. A student placed on academic probation
during the second semester may have his/her re-enrollment contract revoked. The teachers, the
Dean of Students and the Head of School will review the student’s work in June; if the student
has made significant improvements and the circumstances that led to the probation have been
remedied (no failing grades, no more than one grade of C- or below, and an overall average in
academic courses of 2.0 or above), the student will be removed from academic probation and
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will be offered a re-enrollment contract at that time. A student who has made significant
improvements but who has not fully remedied the circumstances that led to probation may be
offered a re-enrollment contract with academic probation for the following year. A student who
has not made significant improvements will not be offered a re-enrollment contract and will not
be eligible for readmission to the school at any time.
Year-End Placement on Academic Probation and Consequences for Re-Enrollment
If a student’s year-end grades fall into one or more of the categories listed above, s/he will be
placed on academic probation for the following school year. A student on academic probation
will not receive a re-enrollment contract in January for the following year. The teachers, the
Dean of Students and the Head of School will review the student’s work in February; if the
student has made significant improvements and the circumstances that led to the probation have
been remedied (no failing grades, no more than one grade of C- or below, and an overall average
in academic courses of 2.0 or above), the student will be removed from academic probation and
will be offered a re-enrollment contract at that time. If the student has not fully remedied the
circumstances that led to academic probation, the student will not be offered a re-enrollment
contract and will not be eligible for readmission to the school at any time.
Non-Renewal
A re-enrollment contract will not be offered in January if a student is on academic or disciplinary
probation, or if a student’s behavior is unacceptable. A final decision to offer or not offer a reenrollment contract will be made at the end of the academic year in June.
Non-Performance
If a student on Academic Probation does not take steps to remedy the circumstances that led to
his/her probation, the faculty and administration will meet to determine whether that student is
not fulfilling his/her basic academic responsibilities. If a decision is made that the student is nonperforming (i.e., not working, not participating, not attending class regularly), s/he will be asked
to withdraw immediately and will not be allowed to finish the school year.
Admission to The Waverly High School
A significant goal of The Waverly Middle School is to prepare students for the academic
challenges of high school. Much emphasis is placed on the development of strong and consistent
work habits and solid skills in writing, mathematics, and analytical and critical thinking.
Students need to consistently apply themselves in seventh and eighth grade in order to develop
these habits and skills. In addition, students must complete the required 15 hours of Community
Service each year.
To be offered a contract for The Waverly High School, eighth grade students must demonstrate:
1. Ability to read and write at high school level.
2. Readiness for high school level math.
3. Consistent homework habits.
4. Punctuality and regular attendance.
5. Appropriate behavior.
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If a student is struggling in any of the above areas, his/her parents will be notified in a
conference and/or on the monthly progress reports. A student who is not offered a high school
enrollment contract in January will have any opportunity to prove him/herself in the second
semester. The teachers and the administrators will review the student’s work in late May; if the
student has made significant improvements and any problems have been remedied, the student
will be offered an enrollment contract at that time.
Expectations for Student Behavior
The Waverly School is a small, academic community that depends on the mutual respect and
commitment to learning of all its members. Students are expected to respect the ideas, feelings,
person, and possessions of others as well as the property of the school. Students are expected to
be focused, thoughtful, actively involved, and intellectually serious in class and school meetings
and on school trips. Students are expected to act appropriately and with an understanding of how
their actions impact others and the well-being of the school. Students are expected to respect all
school property and to act with an understanding of how their actions impact quality of life in the
school, the workload of the maintenance staff, and the ability of the school to flourish and grow.
The Waverly School is committed to the creation and maintenance of a peaceful and secure
atmosphere and to the non-violent resolution of problems and conflicts.
Basic School Rules
Display appropriate academic demeanor and behave with civility and respect towards others at
all times.
Respect the personal boundaries of others. Do not engage in threatening or unwelcome physical
contact. Refrain from personal displays of affection.
Respect the property of others.
Report to class promptly and ready to work. Leave class only with the permission of the teacher.
You may drink water in class. Any other food or beverage consumed in class is at the discretion
of the classroom teacher.
Use your study periods carefully. Refrain from behavior that disrupts classes in session.
Keep the campus clean. Pick up after yourself and others.
Please do not enter faculty work areas without permission.
Make arrangements for transportation, after-school activities, food, and appointments before
coming to school; do not expect to use school phones during the school day. You may use
school phones only with the permission of a staff or faculty member.
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Most electronic equipment is not allowed to be used on campus, including handheld games, TVs,
or cell phones. Personal music players with earphones are allowed during free time. Because
making and answering calls during class is both inappropriate and disruptive, students who carry
cell phones must turn off phones between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (with the exception of the
lunch hour at the high school). Anyone who makes or receives calls during those hours will have
his/her phone confiscated.
Dress Code
Students should wear clothing appropriate to the active nature of education at Waverly. Clothing
and personal adornments that are clearly offensive or distracting and/or overtly sexual are not
allowed. Students not in compliance with the dress code will be asked to change and may be sent
home. In addition, parents will be notified.
Students must wear appropriate exercise attire (no jeans) and closed-toe shoes during physical
education classes.
Off-Campus Policy
Students in seventh through eleventh grade are not allowed to leave the campus during the day
except with a signed note from a parent/guardian, on a school-sponsored field trip or in
accordance with the privileges outlined below. They must arrive prior to the start of school each
day and remain until the last block of the day is over.
Middle School Off-Campus Lunch
Middle School students who have completed all homework assignments during the week and
who have met all student behavior expectations have the opportunity to go off-campus for lunch
on Friday. This privilege is determined on a weekly basis. Students are chaperoned by faculty
and must remain with the group at all times.
High School Off-Campus Privileges
Each high school student in good standing will have off-campus lunch privilege on Fridays if
his/her parent has signed the off-campus permission form and as long as s/he follows the offcampus guidelines and other school rules and expectations. Students must stay within an area
defined by Del Mar to the north, Pasadena Avenue to the west, Congress to the south, and
Arroyo to the east. Each student must be with at least one other student when off-campus.
Students must return to campus on time. Failure to follow these guidelines and other school
rules while off-campus will result in the loss of off-campus privilege.
Juniors in good standing at the end of the first quarter will be allowed daily off-campus lunch
privileges if their parents have signed the off-campus permission form and as long as they follow
the off-campus guidelines and other school rules and expectations. Juniors are still required to
stay on campus during free blocks. Any junior who receives a grade of C- or below OR who is
missing a great deal of homework at the quarter or semester grading periods, will lose his/her
privileges until the next grading period or progress report. In addition, any student with
excessive tardies or absences will lose his/her off-campus privileges.
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Seniors in good standing have permission to leave campus during their free blocks and at lunch
after the off-campus permission form is signed by a parent or guardian and is placed on file with
the Registrar. Seniors may not leave during assemblies or meetings. Seniors must sign in and
out with the receptionist. Misuse of the off-campus privilege will result in its loss. Any junior
who receives a grade of C- or below OR who is missing a great deal of homework at the quarter
or semester grading periods, will lose his/her privileges until the next grading period or progress
report. In addition, any student with excessive tardies or absences will lose his/her off-campus
privileges.
Student Valuables
The school cannot be responsible for the loss of any valuable items brought to the school by
students. We encourage all students to keep their valuables with them at all times and/or lock
them in their lockers.
Middle School Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Middle school classes begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. each day. The middle school campus opens at
8:00 a.m. To be fully prepared for class, students should arrive no later than 8:25 a.m.
Students who need to be dropped off before 8:00 a.m. can be dropped off at Waverly Elementary
at 67 West Bellevue Drive beginning at 7:30 a.m. Such students should leave the elementary
school at 8:00 a.m. and walk to the middle school.
Afternoon pick-up is at 3:05 p.m. Monday through Thursday in front of the high school campus
on Waverly Drive and 2:30 p.m. on Friday in front of the elementary campus on Bellevue Drive.
Please note that middle school students with elementary siblings are picked up at the elementary
school Monday through Friday and middle school students with high school siblings are picked
up at the high school Monday through Friday. Please do not arrive more than two or three
minutes early to pick up your child in the afternoon, unless you park (away from the front of the
school) and come inside.
Middle school students enrolled in Tom Sawyer Camps will go to camp immediately following
dismissal at 3:00 p.m. All students not enrolled in camp need to be picked up no later than 3:15
p.m. The school does not have any supervision for non-camp students after 3:15 p.m. and Tom
Sawyer Camps will not accept un-enrolled students on a drop-in basis.
A parent may give Waverly written permission to allow his/her child to depart from campus at
3:00 p.m. without being accompanied by an adult. This permission slip is mailed during the
summer; parents can ask at the front desk to add this slip to their child’s file anytime during the
course of the year. Please note that students who sign out to leave campus on their own may not
stay on school property or return to school later in the afternoon. Violation of this rule may
result in Disciplinary Probation.
If someone other than you will be picking up your child, and that person is on your middle
school permission slip or the emergency card, you may call the front office and give verbal
permission on the day of pick-up. If the person is not on your list, you must leave a note with a
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staff member stating the date, name of the individual who will be picking up your child, his/her
relationship to your child, and the approximate time your child will be picked up; the note must
also be signed and dated by you. The individual must be prepared to show photo identification
when picking up the child. We are not able to allow anyone to pick up your child without a
signed note from you (unless his/her name appears on the permission form, filed in the school
office, and you have called the front desk or his/her name appears on your child’s emergency
information form, filed in the school office).
High School Drop-Off and Pick-up
The Waverly High School opens each day at 8:00 a.m... Students may be dropped off in the
loading zone in front of the school; there is no parking in the loading zone.
Students who need to be dropped off before 8:00 a.m. can be dropped off at Waverly Elementary
at 67 West Bellevue Drive beginning at 7:30 a.m. Such students should leave the elementary
school at 8:00 a.m. and walk to the high school. Students may not use the alley to walk from
campus to campus.
School ends on Monday through Thursday at 3:30 p.m. and on Friday at 2:30 p.m. High school
students may be picked up from the loading zone in front of the high school beginning at 3:30
p.m. Monday through Thursday and beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Friday.
The high school campus closes at 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 3:00 p.m. on
Friday. All students must be picked up by closing time unless they are involved in an afterschool activity with a teacher.
Driving/Parking
Waverly has a limited number of student parking spaces and is located in an area where parking
is extremely difficult. Students are discouraged from driving to school. If a student must drive
to school due to family circumstances, the parents must first complete a Student Driving Form.
Students may not use their cars during the school day. Students may not drive other students to
school or on school-sponsored events unless the parents of the driver and rider(s) have signed
and turned in release forms and there is evidence of adequate insurance on file in the school
office. We cannot guarantee the safety of cars parked on local streets. Students must allow
enough time to find parking and walk to campus without being late for their first class. We
recommend that students arrive at 8:00 a.m. in order to find parking easily and be on time to
school.
Students requesting parking must live a minimum of 2 miles from the school. Eligibility to apply
for parking is no guarantee that parking privileges will be granted. If the number of students
eligible to apply for parking exceeds the number of spaces available, which is likely, those
eligible will be selected by a process of lottery.
Student parking privileges will be determined in the following order (from highest to lowest).
1. Seniors in good standing* involved in carpooling
2. Seniors in good standing*.
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3. Juniors in good standing* involved in carpooling
4. Juniors in good standing*
5. Other students in good standing eligible to drive under California state law.
The term “good standing” is defined as a student who is not currently on either academic or
disciplinary probation. Further, the students record with regard to discipline, integrity, and good
citizenship must be clean for at least the year prior to this coming fall. Ninth and tenth graders
are not eligible to apply for on campus parking even though they may have obtained a license to
operate a motor vehicle in the state of California.
It should be noted that parking privileges can be revoked at any point in the school year for
reasons including, but not limited to:
1. Disciplinary action taken by Waverly School
2. Academic probation
3. Evidence that a student has demonstrated a disregard for the safety and welfare of self
and others while operating a motor vehicle. This evidence is not limited to driving to or
from school.
4. Loss of driving privileges by the California Department of Motor Vehicles
Once a student has forfeited her/his privileges for any reason, s/he will not be eligible to re-apply
during the course of the school year. The forfeited space will be awarded to another eligible
student, also chosen by lottery, for the remainder of the school year. The Head of School and the
Dean of Students retain discretion to revoke any student’s parking privilege for reasons that
might not appear in these guidelines.
Messages and Phones
Messages from parents will be posted. No other messages will be taken. Students will be called
out of class only in case of true emergencies.
Phones are for school business use only. Students are only permitted to use school phones to
contact their parents and then only after receiving permission from a faculty or staff member.
Middle School Library
The Waverly Middle School Library is open to students during their free time to check out
books, do research for class, or to quietly read or study. Students must fully comply with library
rules as posted in the library or they will lose library privileges. If a student loses a book s/he
has checked out, it is expected that his/her parents will replace the book or pay the school the
value of the missing book.
All middle and high school students are encouraged to participate in Waverly’s Birthday Book
Program by giving a book to the middle school library in recognition of their special day. A
special bookplate will be placed in these “birthday books,” so future readers will know who
donated the books to the library.
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Computer Use Policy
The Waverly School established computers and internet access for educational purposes. Using
these computers is a privilege, one that can be revoked if the rules are not followed.
Students are expected to make responsible, ethical, and appropriate use of computers and
information services at all times.
Students are responsible for their activity on the computer. Students may report to school
personnel any message or posting about or to them that they feel is inappropriate or makes them
uncomfortable. The school recognizes that electronic communication (postings, messages,
chats) can be a form of harassment.
All printing of homework must be done at home. During study blocks, students may sign up to
use computers for word processing. If assignments are completed during study block, a student
may request permission to print from a faculty/staff member.
Computer Rules
1. Students may not use the internet at school without direct teacher supervision. This
includes any non-Waverly wireless networks that may be within range of campus.
2. Students may not reconfigure or tamper with the computer systems in any way, or
attempt to access or alter files without proper authority.
3. Students may not unlawfully copy software or information.
4. Students may not use illegal software.
5. Students may not install or download software for use on school computers.
6. Students may not play games or music CDs on computers.
7. Students may not use the computers for commercial purposes. Students may not offer,
provide, or purchase products or services through the internet.
8. Downloading of any non-scholastic data is prohibited, including applications, graphic,
audio, or video files.
9. Students may not use any instant messaging systems or e-mail.
10. Students may not participate in any internet chat rooms.
11. Students may not use the internet to access material that is profane or obscene, that
advocates illegal acts or violence or discrimination toward other people.
12. Students must cite all information that is acquired from electronic sources and used in
their assignments.
Minor Violations of School Rules
Minor violations of school rules are handled by the teacher/administrator who witnesses the
violation. The Deans of Students deal with repeated minor violations and all major violations.
Minor violations may be brought to the appropriate Dean’s attention through a disciplinary
referral. Disciplinary referrals are filled out and kept in the student’s file. After three referrals, a
student will be suspended and a conference will be held with his/her parents before the student is
allowed to return to class.
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Examples of minor violations:
1. Tardiness
2. Parking illegally
3. Missing assembly
4. Failing to sign in or out
5. Using cell phones on campus during class hours or passing periods without permission of
a faculty member or administrator (lunch cell phone use is allowed)
6. Being in an unsupervised area without permission
Major Violations of School Rules
Smoking
Smoking is detrimental to the health and well-being of the individual and the community.
Smoking is prohibited during the school day (including off-campus lunch) and at all schoolsponsored events. Possession of tobacco products and cigarette lighters is prohibited.
Weapons
Possession of weapons, including air guns and other “toy” weapons, is strictly prohibited at
school and during school events and will result in suspension and/or expulsion.
Defiance
Defying or threatening a faculty or staff member is considered a major offense and will be
treated accordingly.
Truancy
Missing a class and/or school without written permission or a phone call from a parent is truancy
and brings with it academic and disciplinary consequences.
Drug and Alcohol Use
Drug and alcohol use is detrimental to the health and well-being of the individual and the
community, is illegal, and is incompatible with the work of the school. The Waverly School
forbids the use, sale, distribution, or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol and the abuse, sale, or
distribution of prescription or over the counter medications during the school day and at all
school-sponsored events.
Discussion of outside drug or alcohol use is not appropriate in a school setting. If a student
brings outside drug or alcohol use into the school environment, the student will be required to
meet with an administrator to discuss the behavior and the parents may be contacted. If the
student continues to discuss outside drug or alcohol use at school, the parents will be contacted
and a meeting with parents, the student, and the administration will be held.
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If a student appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, s/he will be sent to the Dean of
Students. The student will be asked to explain his/her demeanor and/or behavior and his/her
belongings may be searched.
If a student is found to be in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the student
will be suspended. During the period of suspension, Waverly will work with the student and
his/her family to help them find appropriate professional assistance. During the suspension, the
school will determine whether the student will be expelled or permitted to return to school on
behavioral probation.
Bringing or consuming drugs on a school trip is strictly prohibited and will result in serious
consequences, possibly including expulsion.
The sale or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol will result in immediate expulsion.
Harassment
The school will not tolerate harassment of any kind and will respond to incidents of harassment
with appropriate consequences, possibly including expulsion. The Waverly School recognizes
that some forms of harassment including, but not limited to, e-mail and internet postings may
take place outside of school. If these affect the learning environment, the school may respond to
these forms of harassment as well. Harassment includes:
1. Willful attempts to embarrass or humiliate
2. Expressed intolerance relating to age, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation,
and/or physical appearance
3. The infliction or threat of personal injury
Consequences
In addition to academic consequences, disciplinary consequences for minor and major violations
may include but are not limited to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Parent conference
Loss of privileges
Physical work on campus
Suspension (in-school or out of school)
Behavior contract/Disciplinary Probation
Expulsion
When a student is suspended, s/he may not be allowed to make up missed work and tests. The
school will make each decision on a case by case basis. Suspensions will be recorded in the
student’s permanent file and will be reported, if this information is specifically requested, to
programs or schools to which a student is seeking admission.
All major violations are noted on the student’s behavioral records in addition to the
consequences determined by the school. All major violations will result in immediate
suspension and in a student being placed on Disciplinary Probation.
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Disciplinary Probation
A student who has committed a major violation of expectations and rules, or a series of minor
violations may be placed on Disciplinary Probation. Students on disciplinary probation will be
placed on a behavior contract which can lead to expulsion. A student on Disciplinary Probation
is not allowed to participate in off-campus lunch and may be excluded from sports, other afterschool activities, and certain class activities at the sole discretion of the school. Other
consequences, such as work within the school, may be a part of Disciplinary Probation. Further
violations of school expectations will be dealt with most seriously.
Mid-Year Placement on Disciplinary Probation:
A student placed on Disciplinary Probation during the first semester will not receive a reenrollment contract in January for the following year. A student placed on Disciplinary
Probation during the second semester may have his/her re-enrollment contract revoked. The
teachers, the Dean of Students, and the Head of School will review the student’s behavior in
May; if the student has made significant improvements and the circumstances that led to the
probation have been remedied, the student will be removed from Disciplinary Probation and will
be offered a re-enrollment contract at that time. A student who has made significant
improvements but who has not fully remedied the circumstances that led to probation, may be
offered a re-enrollment contract with Disciplinary Probation for the following year.
Year-End Placement on Disciplinary Probation:
A student placed on Disciplinary Probation at the end of an academic year will not receive a reenrollment contract in January for the following year. The teachers and administrators will
review the student’s behavior in May; if the student has made significant improvements and the
circumstances that led to the probation have been remedied, the student will be removed from
Disciplinary Probation and will be offered a re-enrollment contract at that time. If the student
has not fully remedied the circumstances that led to Disciplinary Probation, the student will not
be offered a re-enrollment contract and will not be eligible for readmission to the school at any
time.
General Information
Communication
Open communication is basic to our successful work with students. Regular e-mails and/or
mailings keep parents informed of upcoming activities and current announcements. Tuition bills
will also be sent home monthly.
Good communication with teachers is vital to a student’s success; Waverly teachers welcome
clear and open communication with parents. Parents should write an e-mail or note to a teacher
to request a meeting at any time during the school year. The note should include several possible
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meeting times, as well as a phone number. Please note that it is often difficult for teachers to
respond to requests for immediate, impromptu conferences.
If your child reports that s/he had a problem in class, please e-mail or write a note to the teacher
first, to ensure that you have accurate facts. Please wait for the teacher to respond to you, rather
than talking with other students, contacting other parents, or involving other staff members.
While Waverly encourages active parent participation and involvement in their child’s education
and development, we ask that parents respect teachers’ time and outside lives. Please do not call
teachers or staff at home to discuss school issues.
When requesting teacher recommendations from Waverly teachers, please give teachers at least
two weeks to complete forms. Please include addressed, stamped envelopes for each
recommendation.
For questions relating to:
General Program/School Issues
Class Curriculum/Procedures
Financial Aid
Tuition/Fundraising
Parent Volunteer Hours
Admissions
College Counseling
Transcript Requests
Heidi Johnson, Head of School or Heather Brunold, Dean
of Students
Classroom Teacher
Business Office
Business Office
Business Office
Jennifer Dakan, Admissions Director
Elaine Lass, College Counselor
Deborah Clark Yeseta, Registrar
Note: Please make requests in writing, mail, or deliver to
the Registrar, and allow five business days for processing.
Please submit all required forms at the same time.
Health
The quality of students’ learning depends partly on their health and well-being. Sufficient rest
and exercise, nutritious meals, and grooming are necessary components. Students who plan to
participate in after-school sports activities (the boys or girls basketball teams, fencing, or other)
must have a physical exam prior to their participation. Forms will be sent home with students
who sign up for sports activities.
Records: Health and vaccination records and emergency forms are kept in students’ permanent
files. Please make sure your child’s records are current.
Communicable Diseases and Conditions: If a student develops a communicable disease or
condition (e.g., strep throat, chicken pox, lice), we will inform all parents. Please alert a staff
member in the school office if your child shows symptoms of a communicable disease.
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Emergency Preparedness
An earthquake or other emergency occurring in our area is just a matter of time. In the event of a
major earthquake, freeways and surface streets may be impassable, and public services may be
interrupted. Everyone must be prepared, therefore, to provide for their own needs for the first 72
hours, at home and school.
In the event of a major disaster, Waverly must be prepared to care for over 300 students. The
Waverly School Disaster and Crisis Plan clearly outlines procedures for earthquake, fire,
chemical contamination, intruder on campus, and other crises and disasters. Each member of the
staff has a copy of the plan, and procedures are reviewed regularly. The middle and high schools
are equipped with several emergency backpacks with first aid kits, student emergency forms,
reference sheets for procedures, flashlights, and additional supplies. The school has sufficient
water and food for the student body and staff for three days. Emergency drills are held regularly.
We hope the steps we have taken will give you more peace of mind.
We ask parents for their cooperation in the preparation of emergency backpacks to be stored at
school throughout the year. All emergency backpacks must be brought to school no later than
the first day of school.
Emergency Communication
In the event that our main phone (626-792-5940) does not work, Waverly has the following
additional emergency numbers –
Elementary School
Cell- (626) 644-9940
Middle School
Landline- (626) 584-8530
High School
Cell- (626) 840-8483
Please note that these phone numbers should only be used in the case of an emergency. The
Waverly School will also contact KFI AM Radio 640 in the event of a major crisis or disaster.
Parents should listen to this station for information regarding the school.
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Mailing Address:
The Waverly School
67 West Bellevue Drive
Pasadena, CA 91105
(Please send all correspondence to the mailing address.)
Business Office- Physical Location
67 West Bellevue Drive
Elementary Campus- Physical Location
67 West Bellevue Drive
Middle School Campus- Physical Location
396 Pasadena Avenue
High School Campus- Physical Location
108 Waverly Drive
Office/Main Line: (626) 792-5940
Fax: (626) 683-5460