ST. MARY ON THE HILL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1220 Monte Sano Avenue Augusta, GA 30904-4698 706-733-6193 FAX 706-737-7985 Web Site: www.StMarysSaints.org www.RenWeb.com PRINCIPAL ...................................................................................................................Mr. Joe McBride ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL………………………………………...……………..….Mrs. Ashley Fisher GUIDANCE COUNSELOR....................................................................................... Mrs. Paige Parel ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ........................................................................ Mrs. Debra Ryan RECEPTIONIST ............................................................................................. Mrs. Amanda Leonard CHURCH OFFICE ......................................................................................................... 706-733-6627 CHURCH FAX ................................................................................................................ 706-733-4887 AQUINAS ........................................................................................................................ 706-736-5516 OTHER STAFF MEMBERS ART ..............................................................................................................................Mrs. Jenny Storer BEFORE CARE/AFTER CARE ................................................................................... Ms. Lori Serji CAFETERIA...................................................................................................................... Mr. Roy Bates COMPUTER LAB ............................................................................................. Mrs. Karmen Lowery CROSSING GUARD ............................................................................................. Ms. Margin Murray FACILITIES MANAGER ................................................................................................ Mr. Cris Edge HEALTH ROOM ............................................................................................. Mrs. LeaAnne Jackson INTERMEDIATE MATH/LANGUAGE ARTS .......................................... Mrs. Caroline Brady JANITORIAL MANAGER…………………………………………………..……….Mr. Kevin Clifford MEDIA……………………………………………………………………………….Mrs. Therese Rhodes MARKETING DIRECTOR…………………………………………………..Mrs. Christine Sweeney MUSIC ................................................................................................................... Mrs. Kathleen Haley PHYSICAL EDUCATION ............................................................................ Mrs. Annmarie Noegel READING SPECIALIST ....................................................................................... Mrs. Laura Kuhlke SPANISH ........................................................................................................ Mrs. Marina Rodriguez SMCS Telephone Numbers CLASS/TEACHER RECEPTIONIST - MRS. LEONARD SECRETARY - MRS. RYAN ASSIST. PRINCIPAL – MRS. FISHER PRINCIPAL - MR. MCBRIDE GUIDANCE COUNSELOR - MRS. PAREL KA - MRS. WILKINSON - MRS. CAWTHORNE KB - MRS. PERRY - MRS. PAUL KC –MRS. LENARTZ – MRS. SIMMONS 1A – MRS. HARDY 1B - MRS. FOLSOM 1C – MRS. TYRE 2A – MS. HOFFMAN 2B - MRS. DOSS 2C – MRS. K. BARRETT 3A – MRS. NORVIEL 3B - MRS. L. BARRETT 3C - MRS. CROW 4A - MRS. BOSCH 4B - MRS. SERJI 5A – MRS. GARRETT 5B - MS. WEDDLE 6A – MR. SHAFER 6B – MS. GIBBS 7A - MRS. SKIDMORE 7B - MRS. ROBERTS 7C – MR. ALLEN 8A - MRS. FAIN 8B - MRS. LEWIS 8C - MRS. WEBER ART – MRS. STORER MUSIC – MRS. HALEY PE - MRS. NOEGEL COMPUTER LAB - MRS. LOWERY SPANISH TEACHER - MRS. RODRIGUEZ READING SPECIALIST - MRS. KUHLKE INTERM. MATH - MRS. BRADY HEALTH ROOM – MRS. JACKSON LIBRARY - MRS. RHODES MARKETING DIRECTOR – MRS. SWEENEY FACULTY LOUNGE CAFETERIA - MR. BATES AFTER SCHOOL – CHURCH OFFICE CHURCH FAX SENIOR CENTER - MS. LEZOTTE SCHOOL FAX AQUINAS AQUINAS FAX EXTENSION 100 101 102 104 103 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 113 112 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 131 132 130 134 133 136 137 141 142 139 140 143 706-733-6627 706-733-4887 706-262-0340 706-737-7985 706-736-5516 706-736-2678 SMCS Email Addresses KA KA-Asst. KB KB-Asst. KC Kathlene Wilkinson Pam Cawthorne Emily Perry Mary Jane Paul Allison Lenartz [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] KC-Asst. 1A 1B 1st Grade Asst. 1st Grade Asst. 2A 2B 2C 3A 3B 3C 4A Jan Simmons Allison Hardy Gina Folsom Susan Woo Stephanie Bussey Ellen Hoffman Katharine Doss Kathy Barrett Anne Norviel Leslie Barrett Allison Crow Chris Bosch [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 4B 5A 5B 6A 6B Int. Math 7A 7B 7C 8A 8B 8C Art Lori Serji Lori Garrett Linda Weddle Todd Shafer Kim Gibbs Caroline Brady Donna Skidmore Jen Roberts John Allen Debbie Fain Barbara Lewis Mary Frances Weber Jenny Storer [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Computer Lab Media Spec Music P. E. Reading Specialist Spanish Principal Asst. Principal Receptionist Secretary Counselor Marketing Director Karmen Lowery Therese Rhodes Kathleen Haley Annmarie Noegel Laura Kuhlke Marina Rodriguez Joe McBride Ashley Fisher Amanda Leonard Debra Ryan Paige Parel Chris Sweeney [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Cafeteria Manager Facilities Manager Janitorial Manager IT Manager Roy Bates Cris Edge Kevin Clifford Vic Bailey [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ST. MARY ON THE HILL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2016 – 2017 SCHOOL TENTATIVE CALENDAR SCHOOL HOURS - 8:00 AM - 2:50 PM AUGUST 8-10 9 9 9 9 11 16 18 19 ******* 5:00 – 6:15 PM 6:15 PM 6:15 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 AM 6:30 PM 6:30 PM ******* Teacher Preplanning Work Days New Family Picnic New Parent Orientation Kindergarten- Meet and Greet Jr. High Back to School Night SCHOOL OPENS - 11:50 AM Dismissal Back to School Night –Primary Department & 1st Grade Back to School Night – Intermediate Department School pictures-students may come out of uniform SEPTEMBER 2 5 6 12 13 13 16 16 19 26 27 26 - 30 9:15 AM NO CLASSES 6:30PM ******* 1:50 PM 7:00 PM ******* ******* ******* ******* 7:00 PM ******* All School Mass LABOR DAY SAC Meeting (cafeteria) Real Love Real Life Early Dismissal – Faculty Meeting PTO Meeting (Cafteria) Progress Reports Distributed Picture Retakes Real Love Real Life Real Love Real Life Confirmation Parent/8th Grade Student Meeting/Adoration (Church) Scholastic Book Fair OCTOBER 3 7 8 11 13 14 19 20-21 14 15 25 7:00 PM First Reconciliation Parent meeting (Church) 9:15 AM First Friday Mass 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Day Retreat for 8th Graders at W. W. Long 11:50 AM Early Dismissal – Faculty meeting ******* End of 1st Quarter NO CLASSES Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences - Report Cards 11:50 AM Early Dismissal – DEI ******* NO CLASSES – DEI 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Carnival Preview Party (Adults Only) 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM PTO FALL CARNIVAL 7:00 PM First Reconciliation Adoration Service (Church) Letters due to Fr. Ragan NOVEMBER 1 1 8 8 15 18 22 22 23 - 25 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 9:15 AM 1:50 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM ******* 9:15 AM 2:00 PM NO CLASSES DECEMBER 8 8 TBD TBD 20 21 21 21 9:15 AM ******* ******* ******* 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM ******* 11:50 AM OPEN HOUSE (Parents, Children and Visitors Welcome) All School Mass EARLY DISMISSAL – Faculty Meeting SAC Meeting PTO Meeting – Cafeteria Progress Reports Distributed Grandparents Day Mass Turkey Bowl THANKSGIVING HOLIDAYS All School Mass - Immaculate Conception - Holy Day Group Pictures Christmas Bazaar EXAMS Junior High Dance 7th and 8th Grade - NO CLASSES EARLY DISMISSAL - Begin Christmas Vacation - No After School End of 2nd Quarter DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 3 - CHRISTMAS VACATION REMINDER - REGISTRATION FEES ARE DUE ON JANUARY 20, 2017 JANUARY 4 13 TBD 10 11 20 16 24 Jan. 30-Feb. 3 30 31 8:00 AM ******* ******* 1:50 PM 7:00 PM ******* NO CLASSES 7:00 pm ******* ******* ******* FEBRUARY 1 2 3 3 6 6 – 10 10 13 14 17 20 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM ******* 9:15 AM ******* ******** ******* ******* ******** 1:50 AM NO CLASSES NO CLASSES MARCH 1 6-15 9 13 - 16 16 17 21 27 31 TBD 9:15 AM ******* ******* ******* ******* NO CLASSES 6:30 PM ******* ******* 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM 3rd Quarter Begins- Re-registration begins Report Cards Distributed PAGE Academic Bowl Competition EARLY DISMISSAL - FACULTY MEETING Reconciliation Class for 2nd grade Parents and Students (Church) Re-registration Forms and Fees Due MARTIN LUTHER KING HOLIDAY First Reconciliation CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK Benediction, Mass and Beta Club Induction Student Appreciation Day Open House - Parents, Children and Visitors welcome Staff Appreciation All School Mass Staff Luncheon Family Honor Changes and Challenges Catholic Book Fair Progress Reports Distributed Family Honor Changes and Challenges EARLY DISMISSAL – Faculty Meeting Teacher Workday Presidents’ Day Ash Wednesday Mass Standardized Testing Week End of Third Quarter Scholastic Spring Book Fair Report Cards Distributed St. Patrick’s Day School Holiday First Eucharist Family Adoration & Potluck Dinner (Church/Cafeteria) Spring/Casual Pictures Confirmation letter and sponsor info due to Fr. Ragan 8th Grade Day Retreat @ Bishop Gravett APRIL 3-7 11 13 14 16 18 TBD TBD 28 30 30 NO CLASSES 8:00 AM 11:50 AM NO CLASSES ******* 7:00 PM 8:45 AM–11:45 AM 6:00 PM-8:30 PM ******* ******* 12:15 PM MAY 5 9 9 11 11 13 19 TBD 23 24-26 24-26 25 26 26 30-June 2 9:15 AM May Crowning Mass 1:50 PM EARLY DISMISSAL - FACULTY MEETING 6:30 PM Athletic Banquet 1:15 PM Academic Awards 7:00 PM First Eucharist Practice/Parent Meeting (Parish Hall) 10:00 AM First Eucharist (Pictures at 9:00 AM) ********* 8th Grade Carowinds 5:30 PM Rite of Enrollment for Confirmation students 7:00 PM Eighth Grade Graduation 11:50 AM EARLY DISMISSAL Students may come out of uniform 8:30 AM–11:00 AM Used Uniform Sale 9:15 AM Kindergarten Mass and Program 9:15 AM End of School Mass 11:50 AM DISMISSAL - No After School - Report Cards Distributed ******* Post Planning MASTERS WEEK Classes Resume EARLY DISMISSAL – Holy Thursday (No After School) Good Friday Easter PTO Meeting Field Day - No After School Evening of the Arts and Talent Show Progress Reports Distributed Re-Registration Fees Due First Eucharist Demonstration Mass (Church) ST. MARY ON THE HILL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1220 MONTE SANO AVENUE AUGUSTA, GEORGIA 30904-4698 (706) 733-6193 (706) 737-7985 – FAX www.stmaryssaints.org Email: [email protected] SCHOOL YEAR OFFICE HOURS: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM SUMMER HOURS: 9 AM – 12 NOON TUESDAY – THURSDAY 2016 – 2017 Parent-Student Handbook THE SCHOOL IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OF THE DIOCESE OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 601 EAST LIBERTY STREET SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 30401-5196 (912) 210-4100 The administration reserves the right to amend the handbook for just cause. Notification of any amendments will be written and distributed to the school community as well as verbally at Home & School meeting STUDENTS AND PARENTS MUST ACCEPT AND ABIDE BY THE SCHOOL’S POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IN ORDER FOR THE STUDENT TO ATTEND THE SCHOOL The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Savannah, Georgia admit all students to the rights, privileges, programs and activities made available to the student body. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age or national origin in the administration of its admission or athletic programs. Administration Ms. Michelle Kroll, Superintendent Ms. Carrie Jane Williamson, Asst. Superintendent Fr. Gerald Ragan, Pastor Mr. Joe McBride, Principal Ms. Ashley Fisher, Asst. Principal Ms. Debra Ryan, Administrative Asst. Ms. Amanda Leonard, Receptionist INTRODUCTION ACCREDITATION St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference and by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. MISSION STATEMENT In a Christ-centered atmosphere, the mission of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is to teach, to learn, and to become faith-filled servants of Jesus. PHILOSOPHY OF ST. MARY ON THE HILL CATHOLIC SCHOOL St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School, in partnership with the families of students enrolled, assists in providing a quality Catholic education. The school provides a Catholic atmosphere of love, respect, responsibility and religious awareness. The school accepts the challenge of assisting in the development of the potential of each child: spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally, morally and socially. Entering its 53rd year of educational leadership in its current location, St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is a Florida Catholic Conference (FCC) and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredited school with grades K-8. The parish of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church supports the school through Stewardship. Historically, the school has been administered by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Laypersons currently staff the school. The school serves St. Mary on the Hill Parish, other parishes and non-Catholic residents of the area. Originally named Mount St. Joseph, the school was founded in 1913 by the Georgia province of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The current school campus was erected in 1960 and the newest addition was completed during the 20012002 school year. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School now has a total of 24 classrooms. Additionally, it has resources that include a guidance counselor, library/media center, on-staff health room assistant, religious education office, art, music, Spanish, physical education, 3 computer labs and a science lab. The St. Mary on the Hill program is designed to help students progress from dependence in early childhood to personal and intellectual independence as young adults. The academic program is separated into four departments: Early Childhood, Primary, Intermediate and Junior High. Class sizes are limited throughout the school so students, faculty, and parents know each other well. The Early Childhood and Primary Departments focus on establishing basic skills in a safe, stimulating and developmentally appropriate environment. Children from kindergarten through the first grade call the Early Childhood wing home. The Primary wing includes second and third grades. In the Intermediate grades, fourth through sixth, students begin assuming greater responsibility for their academic progress and work toward mastering increasingly complex subject matter. The Junior High students in the seventh and eighth grades benefit from a challenging program. Upon leaving the school, a St. Mary's graduate is expected to reason logically, read critically, write correctly, express thoughts articulately, and to both analyze and question vigorously. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School sets a priority of hiring practicing Catholics as classroom teachers. All classroom religion teachers at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School participate in ongoing Catechist training to maintain their Catechist Certification. All students take daily religion classes. Each school day starts with student led school wide prayer. All students attend daily Mass at least once per week. All students attend a monthly school-wide Mass. Prior to the first day of school, the administration hosts an information night for all new St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School parents. All parents and students receive a copy of the current St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School parent/student handbook that outlines policies and programs. At the beginning of the school year a “Back to School Night” for all parents is held so that teachers can share student academic and behavioral expectations directly with parents. At the end of the first quarter, each parent is invited to attend a conference with their child’s teachers to discuss the child’s academic and spiritual progress as well as grades on the child’s report card. SMS is now using an online grade book program called RenWeb. Parents and students receive instructions for setting up their private account. They are able to access their teacher’s website for homework assignments, announcements, etc. Grades will be posted online approximately biweekly and progress reports will be posted quarterly. Teachers in kindergarten through sixth-grade provide a daily “Homework Hotline” that students and parents can access after school hours. A mid-quarter progress report is issued to all students four times per year and a report card issued at the end of each quarter. Parents are encouraged to schedule conferences with their children’s teachers whenever needed. We welcome conferences with you as issues arise. It is recommended that parents discuss issues of concern first with their child’s teacher and then with the principal or assistant principal as desired. Teachers also schedule conferences with parents when needed. Many teachers provide a weekly newsletter outlining class activities and alerting parents of upcoming events. At St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School teachers use the curriculum of the Diocese of Savannah. Teachers use these curriculum guidelines to provide the best Catholic education possible. All teachers are required to be state certified. As part of maintaining certification, teachers must earn six graduate hours or ten Staff Development Units (SDU’s) every five years. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is required to submit a staff development plan to the Superintendent of Schools annually. In addition, all teachers are required to attend a two day Diocesan Educational Institute hosted by the Catholic Schools Office. Curriculum guides outline Diocese of Savannah expectations of skills to be taught and mastered at each grade level in each subject area. Curriculum Guide revision at the Diocesan level is an ongoing process within each subject area. The Language Arts Curriculum Guide was revised during the 2001- 2002 school year. The Social Studies and Religion Curriculum Guides were revised during the 2002-2003 school year. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School added Spanish Classes to Kindergarten through eighth grades during the 2005-2006 school year. The Diocesan Curriculum in Spanish was completed in 2005-2006. A review and revision of the Science Curriculum was completed during the 2006-2007 school year and the Mathematics Curriculum was revised in 2007-2008. The Technology Curriculum was revised in 2008- 2009 and 30 computers were replaced with new ones in 2012. The Social Studies Curriculum is currently under review this year. There are no plans for expansion of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School because of property limitations. The maximum number of students per grade level K-8 is sixty. Kindergarten through third grade has three class sections each. Fifth and sixth grades have two sections each, but have an additional math and language arts teacher for the department. Seventh and eighth grades have three homerooms each. In August of 2002, a five million dollar renovation and building project was completed. All classrooms received new windows, lights, ceilings, carpet, HVAC systems, and paint. A new media center and after school program area were created in the old St. Joseph’s Convent. Also, a new state of the art gymnasium and cafeteria were constructed. ST. MARY ON THE HILL CATHOLIC SCHOOL HISTORY St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is a Catholic elementary school (grades K-8). The parish of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church supports the school. Historically the school has been administered by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Today, lay personnel staff the school. The school serves St. Mary’s Parish, other parishes and non-Catholic residents of the area. The school is accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference and Southern Association of Schools and Colleges. Originally named Mount St. Joseph, the school was founded in 1913 by the Georgia province of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The school, as it stands today, was erected in 1960 with the Junior High wing added in 1964. The Early Childhood addition was completed for the 1986 school year. Extensive renovation of the existing classrooms, as well as the addition of a gymnasium, new cafeteria and new library/media center, was completed in 2002. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School now has a total of 24 classrooms. Additionally, it has administrative offices, health room, Religious Education Office, music room, art room, three computer labs, and science lab. Promethean ACTIVboards with new computers were placed in every classroom in 2006. 20 new Promethean ACTIVboards were installed in 2015 to replace the old ones. New classroom computers were added in 2010 and overhead projectors have been replaced with new ones and all computers are have been updated with a new operating system and new software. In 2013 St. Mary’s added 100 student iPads to the classrooms to continue to enhance our use of technology in the classroom. In 2014, a 30 laptop cart was added for the Junior High department. ACCEPTANCE INFORMATION 5030 POLICY: Each school in the Diocese will have its own particular regulations regarding placement, parish involvement, and payment of tuition and fees. These regulations shall be on file in the Catholic Schools Office, and adhered to for all applicants. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Prior to acceptance, all new students are tested to ensure that the curriculum offered at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School will accommodate the child’s full educational potential. New pupils are required to have their latest report card and testing scores available at testing. Students are accepted according to the following order: 1. 2. 3. Present students at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School Siblings of present students in St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School Students whose families are St. Mary on the Hill stewardship parishioners. A stewardship parishioner is defined as one, who is registered with the Church office, attends Sunday and Holy Day Mass on a 4. 5. 6. 7. regular basis, has turned in a Stewardship tithing pledge card, and uses church envelopes to make routine contributions to the parish. Students whose families are St. Mary on the Hill parishioners and choose to pay tuition. Catholic students from the area Catholic students who have recently moved into the area and attended a Catholic school before moving Non-Catholic students REQUIRED CERTIFICATES: The following must be presented upon acceptance; a certified copy of the Birth Certificate, Baptismal Certificate (if baptized Catholic), copies of all immunization records and the Eye, Ear and Dental Form. (See immunization for more information.) ACCREDITATION 6190 POLICY: Elementary schools in the Diocese of Savannah shall be accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference. Secondary schools in the Diocese of Savannah shall be accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is accredited by both the Florida Catholic Conference and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. ADMISSION 5010 POLICY: Schools in the diocese of Savannah do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex (unless traditionally a single sex school), national origin, or handicapping condition (if, with reasonable accommodation on the part of the school, the handicapped person could be accommodated) in the admission of students, or in the administration of policies regarding education, athletics, or any school sponsored programs. In admitting students where facilities are limited, Diocesan schools give preference to Catholic students living within parish boundaries; secondly, to Catholic students living outside parish boundaries; finally, to nonCatholic students. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Without discrimination, students who desire an educational experience founded on the Catholic philosophy of education and who fulfill the age, academic, and behavior requirements as stated below are eligible for admission to St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School. The school will call or request records, as well as speak to representatives from previous schools to help in determining acceptance. Parents that are requesting Catholic rate tuition must provide the school with a letter from the Catholic Church they attend with a letter stating their attendance and signed by the Pastor. AGE REQUIREMENTS 5040 POLICY: A student must be five years of age prior to the first of September to apply for admission to Kindergarten, and a student must be six years of age prior to the first of September to apply for admission to Grade One, as required by the accreditation commission. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The school conforms to the state of Georgia, Diocesan, and Florida Catholic Conference guidelines with regard to age and immunization requirements for admission. A student entering kindergarten must be five (5) years old by September 1st or six (6) years old by September 1st to enter first grade. ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL Students may not be in the building before 7:45 AM without supervision. Students who arrive at school before 7:45 AM must attend the Before School Care Program in Mrs. Serji’s Classroom. The only exception will be students who are on Safety Patrol or PAGE Academic Team. Students, who are not picked up by the time carlines have cleared, are sent to the After School Care Program. A fee is charged for both programs. Students are not allowed on the school grounds or in the school building before school hours or after school hours unless accompanied by an authorized adult and participating in a school activity. Students arriving at school after 7:45 AM should go directly to their homeroom classroom. Morning traffic should use the Monte Sano Avenue or Helen Street entrance when dropping off their children. Safety Patrol members will be available to help students exiting cars and to direct them to their classroom. Parents must respect the safety regulations regarding arrival and departure of students. Drivers must park and pick up children in designated areas only. All drivers are cautioned to drive carefully at all times and stay off cell phones during these times. Parents are not allowed to park in the Trinity on the Hill parking lot to pick up students at dismissal. One-way traffic will remain in effect on Helen Street (by the school) from 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. Two-way traffic on Helen Street will be in effect 4:00 PM – 6:00 AM Monday through Friday. During the two-way flow period, street parking on the south side of Helen Street will not be permitted. For the safety of students, parents are asked to register at the beginning of the school year for one of three dismissal pick-up carpool sites – Monte Sano parking lot, Gym pick-up on Arsenal Avenue, or Helen Street pick-up. Students riding in carpools will be dismissed to these locations. Only registered cars will be allowed to assemble in carpool lines during afternoon pick-up. Students registered for carpools will be dismissed first. After the carpool lines have cleared, the walkers and all other students will then be dismissed. WALKERS: Students who walk to and from school are to leave for home immediately after school. They are to use the crossing guard area or corner crossing to ensure their safety. TRANSPORTATION BY BIKE: If a bike is ridden to school, the student should walk the bike to the bike rack provided. Bikes are not to be ridden on the school grounds or the adjoining sidewalks at any time. Bike riders will be dismissed after walkers. The school is not responsible for the security of the bikes. Motorized bikes are not allowed on school grounds at any time. SAFETY PATROLS: The principal, assistant principal and teacher/moderator work with the SMCS Safety Patrol to provide maximum safety for children as they come to and from school. Seventh grade students are eligible for the patrol and are selected based on recommendation of SMCS staff. They attend regular meetings and assume leadership responsibilities for the safety of the school children. All students are expected to obey the patrols. Any misconduct by a student will be reported to the patrol moderator or assistant principal. Safety Patrols are expected to be an example to the students and may be suspended from patrol duty for misconduct. ATTENDANCE 5060 POLICY: Schools in the Diocese of Savannah must comply with attendance requirements established by the State of Georgia in accordance with Diocesan Regulations. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The Diocesan Attendance Policy states, “Students in grades K – 8 shall not miss more than 10 days per semester in order to be promoted to the next grade level.” In order to be excused, absences must be accompanied by a written note from the Doctor’s or Dentist’s office. Three (3) consecutive absences must be excused by a written note from a physician. Arriving at school on time must be a priority for everyone. The first bell rings at 8:00 am and the tardy bell rings at 8:05 am. Students should be in their classroom, in their seats and ready for class at that time. During this time, homeroom teachers take lunch count and collect papers and money. When your student is late for class, he/she disrupts the entire class. This takes time away from the other students who are on time and decreases the amount of teaching time. To support an orderly, on time beginning to the school day the following policy will be in effect. After five (5) tardies (this does not include coming in late due to a doctor’s/dentist’s appointment) the family will be charged a $5 fee for each unexcused tardy after the 5th. This fee will apply to each child in the family who is tardy and is cumulative from the first day of school and does not “re-set” at each quarter. Additionally, if a student reaches 10 tardies in a semester a parent conference will be required before a student can return to school so that an action plan can be put in place to keep this from becoming and ongoing/recurring issue. BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE Before and After School Care is available for a fee for students of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School. Children in the morning program may arrive as early as 7:00 AM and will be under the supervision of an adult. Any student who arrives before 7:45 AM will automatically be sent to the Before School area. Parents will be charged a fee. Children in the After School Care program will participate in outdoor activities, indoor games, and arts and crafts and with quiet time provided for homework. A snack is provided. After School Care will be available for St. Mary students until 6:00 PM Monday through Friday, with the exception of scheduled half days before Christmas, Easter, Masters Week vacation, Field Day, and the last day of school. There will not be After Care on days that school is not in session. Students, who are not picked up before all cars in the carline leave, will be taken to After School Care. If he/she is picked up by 3:10 pm on regular dismissal days or by 12:15 pm or 2:15 pm on early dismissal days, there will be no charge. From 3:10 pm to 3:45 pm (or 12:10 pm to 12:45 pm or 2:10 pm to 2:45 pm) there will be a charge of $5.00. After 4:00 pm or 1:00 pm or 3:00 pm respectively, the full day charge of $11.00 for regular dismissal days or $14.00 for early dismissal days will occur. All money for the Before and/or After School Care should be sent into the office in an envelope marked Before/After School Care with your child’s name on it. A receipt for cash will be sent home with the student. A statement will be sent at the end of the month and payment is due by the 10th of each month. A late fee will be charged after the 10 th if the office has not been notified beforehand. There will be a $25.00 service charge for all returned checks. Before and After School fees must be current at the end of each quarter for service to be offered during succeeding quarter and for report cards and/or transcripts to be issued. CALENDAR 6010 POLICY: Each school administrator shall submit to the Superintendent for approval a calendar that adheres to the State attendance regulations. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Each year, our school calendar is constructed based on the regulations set forth by the State of Georgia, as well as our two accrediting agencies, FCC and SACS. This calendar is approved by the Superintendent prior to being distributed. CELL PHONE POSSESSION/USE BY STUDENTS 5270 POLICY: Every school under the auspices of the Catholic Diocese of Savannah shall include in the student handbook a policy that forbids or seriously curtails the use of cell phones during school hours and delineates the consequences. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Students will be permitted to make telephone calls only when given permission by a teacher or office personnel. Students are not allowed to use cell phones to make calls or for texting during school hours. If a student has a cell phone at school, it must be turned off and kept in their book bag until dismissal. Violations of this policy will cause the cell phone to be confiscated and turned into the office. A parent or guardian will have to pick it up from the school office. After the 2nd offense student will not be allowed to bring a cell phone to school. CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES 6090 POLICY: The flag of the United States of America shall be displayed outside of the school during school hours. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The flag of the United States is on display outside of the school as well as in each classroom. The school will have certain ceremonies throughout the year, as appropriate. Such ceremonies would include prayer services, Masses, Catholic Schools Week activities and celebrations, pep rallies and class parties. COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 5210 POLICY: In the instance of communicable disease, advice of the local Health Department must be followed. Any accident or illness is to be brought to the attention of the principal as quickly as possible. If the situation warrants, the parent or guardian is notified. If no one can be reached, the principal is responsible for taking the necessary action in the situation. A student who is ill will be released from school in the custody of their parent/guardian. Students will be released only if there is assurance that someone will be in the home to care for them. CONFERENCES WITH SCHOOL PERSONNEL 6070 POLICY: Parents, guardians, agents, and others having legitimate business with the school shall be informed to make appointments at a mutually convenient time so classes will not be interrupted. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Parents will have ample opportunity to visit with teachers. A parent meeting with each department on separate nights is scheduled at the beginning of the school year. The purpose of the meeting is to share academic and behavioral expectations with parents and answer parents’ questions regarding expectations. All parents should plan to attend the meeting for each department in which they have children enrolled. Throughout the year, parents may make appointments for teacher conferences. Conferences with teachers or the principal may be arranged by calling the school office, 706-733-6193 or by written request. We welcome conferences with you. Messages may also be left on each teacher’s voice mail or email addresses available on the website. Classes will not be interrupted while school is in session for phone calls or visits. All parents and visitors to St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School will report directly to the receptionist and sign in. All visitors must wear a name badge while in the school and return the visitors badge to Mrs. Leonard as you leave so we know who is in the building. All visitors and parents should exit the building through the front door. Visitors and parents are not to go into a classroom without advance permission from the teacher. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DISCUSS MATTERS BEFORE SCHOOL BEGINS WITHOUT AN APPOINTMENT. NO CONFERENCES CAN BE RECORDED FOR ANY REASON. All visitors wishing to eat with a student or visit during lunch must get prior approval from the office before doing so. CURRICULUM GUIDELINES 6110 POLICY: Elementary schools of the Diocese of Savannah will comply with the Minimum Curriculum Standards as established by the Catholic Schools Office. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: PROGRAM OF STUDIES: The curriculum followed at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is prescribed by the office of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Savannah. It is kept current and reviewed by the Diocesan Curriculum Committee. Religion, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science are taught every day. The length of time varies according to the subject and grade level. Art, Spanish, computer, library, music, and physical education classes are offered throughout the school year. Advanced Math is offered to students who meet the requirements. Children in kindergarten through fourth grade are taught in self-contained classrooms. Students in grades five through eight are departmentalized. Physical Education classes are held for all students in grades K – 8. A written note from a parent is required for a student to be excused from participation in physical education class. Non-participation of more than three consecutive PE classes requires a written excuse from a physician. CURRICULUM GUIDELINES – RELIGIOUS EDUCATION 6120 POLICY: All religious education programs of the Diocese of Savannah, preschool through adults, shall be in accord with the Religious Education Guidelines published by the Office of Religious Education. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: SPIRITUAL LIFE: The primary concern of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School is the spiritual and intellectual development of its students. A mutual effort needs to be made by the church, administration, faculty, parents and students to attain these ends. PRAYER: Our school day begins and ends with prayer. Each class says grace before lunch. A love and appreciation of the liturgy is fostered through active participation in the church. During the school year, children attend Mass weekly, school Mass (as listed on the calendar), and on Holy Days of Obligation. Student Mass participation includes carrying the Eucharistic gifts, being lectors, altar servers and singing in the choir. Students are encouraged to fully participate in every part of the Mass. All parishioners are cordially invited to attend and share in any of these services. The school is obliged to teach the basic foundation of the Catholic faith. However, the greatest obligation lies with the family to attend Mass regularly, to respect the church by sharing time and talent, and to set a Christian example to others. SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: Before any sacrament is received, a child must be prepared through regular attendance in a religious education program. Parents are actively involved in the preparation process. The parish provides parent meetings to educate and assist them in their role. Parent and child weekly Sunday Mass attendance is a prerequisite for the child’s reception of the sacraments. FIRST RECONCILIATION The child must be baptized, be in at least the second grade, have completed first grade religious studies, or received special permission from the pastor/parish staff to receive the sacrament. A six-to-eight week instructional period is required to prepare the child to receive this sacrament. This period includes one parent meeting and one family prayer service. Parents, the teacher and the pastor will decide when the child is ready to receive the sacrament. Celebration of First Reconciliation is usually in January or February. FIRST EUCHARIST The child must be baptized, be in at least the second grade, have completed first grade religious studies, or received special permission from the pastor/parish staff to receive the sacrament, and have made First Reconciliation. A ten-totwelve week instructional period is required to prepare the child to receive the sacrament. This period includes one parent meeting, one retreat, and one family prayer service. Parents, the teacher and the pastor will decide when the child is ready to receive the sacrament. Celebration of First Eucharist is held in the spring. DISCIPLINE 5110 POLICY: Students shall comply with all rules of the school and submit to all reasonable authority of the teachers and others in authority over them. Each school must develop its own disciplinary code in accordance with Diocesan regulations and publish its procedures in the school’s parent handbook. A copy of the school handbook will be sent to the Catholic Schools Office. See Appendix II Rationale and Principles for a Code of Discipline SCHOOL PROCEDURE: DISCIPLINE CODE: The purpose of discipline code in a Catholic School is to bring about the self-discipline of each individual and of the school community as a whole so that their actions promote the Christian development of each member and thereby enhance the community. To fulfill this purpose, rules and regulations are administratively established in concert with the 2010- 2011 Diocesan policies. These regulations affect the whole school community, students, faculty, and parents. Behaviors considered inappropriate at SMCS are: Possession of any type of weapon on the school campus Possession of drugs or controlled substances Bullying Fighting Striking a teacher or any member of the SMS staff Abuse of or threat of bodily harm to another student, member of the SMCS staff or of school property Disruptive behavior on campus or at a school sponsored event Repeated violations of school rules Disrespect of any member of the SMCS staff Taking another student’s or SMCS staff member’s possession without permission Refusal to comply with a reasonable directive Use of profanity and/or inappropriate language Truancy Immoral behavior Leaving school grounds and/or classroom without permission Skipping class Forgery Copying another student’s homework or test Providing answers to another student Uniform violation Gum chewing Inappropriate use of the internet Out of uniform This list is meant to provide reasonable guidance to students and parents, but does not attempt to include all possible misbehavior. The school retains the prerogative to address other inappropriate behavior that may occur. Consequences (based on nature of offense and discretion of administration) for inappropriate behavior include but are not limited to: Loss of class and/or school privileges (may include extracurricular activities and field trips) Detention Parent conference In-school suspension Suspension from school Expulsion from school Students serving detentions will not be excused to participate in extracurricular activities. Three behavior detentions will result in an In-School suspension. These detentions will be accumulative for the entire year. Three In-School suspensions will result in out of school suspension and student will be placed on probation. DUE PROCESS AND RIGHT OF APPEAL 5120 POLICY: Students and/or their parents have the right of appeal in those cases where disciplinary action may result in suspension or expulsion. See Appendix IV. DISCRIMINATION (Based on Sex) 5140 POLICY: Schools in the Catholic Diocese of Savannah shall adhere to provisions outlined in Title IX of the federal code. DRUGS 5080 POLICY: A student may not carry, consume or have in his/her possession on the school grounds, before, during, or after school hours, any drugs or alcohol, including but not limited to, over the counter medication, prescription medicines, illegal substances, tobacco or federally controlled contraband. Refusing to abide by this regulation makes a student liable for suspension or expulsion. Trafficking of drugs on school premises requires the school authorities to inform the police. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 6080 POLICY: Each school shall develop and implement an emergency management plan. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Emergency drills are called several times each year (see Emergency Procedures). Students will follow the procedures posted in classrooms, the Media center, the gymnasium, and the cafeteria. Absolute silence must be maintained throughout the exercise. In case of bad weather, which could necessitate the closing of schools, please listen to your local radio and television stations or School Reach message. In general, if Richmond County Schools close due to hazardous road conditions, St. Mary on the Hill will also close or delay the opening of school. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES - POSTED 5190 POLICY: The principal is responsible to see that all school personnel know exactly what to do in an emergency as outlined in each Catholic school’s emergency plan. Emergency procedures should be briefly and clearly written and posted in a conspicuous place. Instructions and numbers for police and fire departments should, also, be posted. The principal is responsible for informing all school personnel of the person who is responsible to act in “the name of the principal”, when the principal is not on the premises. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: EMERGENCY DRILLS (FIRE/TORNADO) : Emergency drills are conducted on a monthly basis. INCLEMENT WEATHER: In case of inclement weather, students will follow instructions given to the local radio and/or TV stations by school authorities. This information will also be posted on the website or sent via RenWeb. FIELD TRIPS 6150 POLICY: A field trip is an educational opportunity whereby students leave school property under the direction, guidance and/or authority of the school, or authorized school representative. Field trips are recognized as useful in contributing to and enhancing students’ practical understanding of academic subjects. The purpose, organization and implementation of field trips must follow regulations established by the Catholic Schools Office. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School augments classroom learning with selected field trips. Students whose conduct, effort and work have been satisfactory are allowed to go on educational field trips. To participate in field trips, students must have a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian, be in the proper field trip uniform, and follow school rules while off campus. Parents are not to make unscheduled stops for snacks, etc. Parents who drive for field trips must have a current volunteer driver’s form on file. Any changes in their insurance policy/vehicle/tag number etc. must be noted on this form before driving on field trips. Also required are the following: the school background check, VIRTUS training, and a signed Diocesan Code of Conduct for Those Working with Minors. Parents, who are driving more than their own student on a field trip, may not bring younger children on the field trip. In accordance with the Georgia Child Passenger Safety Law: As of July 1, 2011 all children under the age of eight (8) must be secured in an approved age appropriate child car seat or booster seat while riding in a passenger car, vans and pickup trucks. Exceptions to the Georgia Car Seat Law Children that are under the age of eight (8) who are four-feet, nine inches (4’9”) tall. A written statement from a physician stating the physical or medical issues that prevent the child from using standard safety restraints. If the vehicle is not equipped with the lap and shoulder belt necessary to properly use a booster seat the child may use a lap belt only. GRADE PLACEMENT 5050 POLICY: The principal, after consultation with the parents and teacher(s) will be responsible for making the final decision on the placement of a student. The secondary school (High Schools) will develop and publish written policies and regulations for student placement, course credits, and graduation requirements. Students and parents should be made aware of and understand both policy and regulations. GRADING/ EVALUATION 6170 POLICY: Each teacher shall provide ongoing evaluation of the student’s educational progress and communicate progress to parents. Elementary and secondary schools shall use report cards approved by the Catholic Schools Office. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: GRADING SCALE A = 94-100 B = 86-93 C = 77-85 D = 70-76 F = below 70 GRADUATION 5250 POLICY: Students graduating from Diocesan elementary and secondary schools will receive the official diploma issued by the Catholic Schools Office. GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING 6220 POLICY: Elementary and secondary schools shall meet the counseling requirements set forth by the approved accrediting agency. HEALTH RECORDS/CARDS All students, in accordance with Georgia state law, are required to have a Georgia Immunization Form #3321 and an Eye, Ear and Dental Form #3300 on record in the school office by the first day of school. These forms will be kept in the permanent record file folders in the school office. Out of state health records must be evaluated and recorded by a physician or the Health Department on the Georgia Immunization Form. Parents will also be asked to fill out an emergency medical card on each student. This information must be kept current with any changes throughout the year. HEALTH AND SANITATION 5240 POLICY: Compliance with the local Health Department guidelines for sanitary conditions of the school is required. This includes cleanliness of lavatories, drinking fountains, lunchrooms, classrooms, corridors, and grounds. Each school will have sufficient maintenance personnel to provide the clean, safe environment conducive to learning and healthy living. HOMEWORK 6160 POLICY: Homework is an essential part of a complete educational program. It provides a meaningful opportunity to supplement and reinforce the school curriculum. Homework may require both dependent and independent effort by the student. The curriculum shall provide for appropriate homework. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The purpose of homework is to foster habits of independent work-study, to reinforce learning that has taken place in school, to bring the partnership of home and school closer together, and to relate school learning to out-of-school interests. Homework includes written and/or studied work, projects and leisure reading. A student who fails to complete an assignment will be issued a homework slip notifying the parents. Both the missed assignment and the signed parent form must be returned on the following day. After a student receives a third homework notice in a given grading period, the student will attend a mandatory after school study hall program for 4 days. The study hall is scheduled for one hour after school dismissal, Monday through Thursday. Any behavior detentions received during this period will be served upon completion of the 4-day study hall. Students in mandatory study hall will not be excused to participate in extracurricular activities. The average length of time that students should spend on homework is as follows: Kindergarten Grade 1-2-3 Grade 4-5-6 Grade 7-8 15 minutes 30 minutes 60 – 75 minutes 90 minutes HONOR ROLL Students in grades four – eight are eligible for the Honor Roll. To merit “A” Honor Roll, a student must obtain an “A” or “G/E” in all subjects, including “Specials”, and a satisfactory grade in general conduct/effort. To merit “A-B” Honor Roll, a student must obtain an “A”, “B” or “G/S” in all subjects, including “Specials”, and a satisfactory grade in general conduct/effort. Illness/Absences: When it is necessary for a child to be absent from school, a note is required when they return. A note from the doctor is required for an excused absence. A note from the parent is always required stating the reason for the absence. This note is to be submitted to your child’s teacher. When absences are deemed excessive, a meeting with the parents will be required. Students who have been out of school for more than 3 consecutive school days due to illness must provide a doctor’s note explaining the reason for the absence, nature of the illness, and clearance to attend classes. Keep your children home from school if they have one or more of the following symptoms: Fever over 99.6 Vomiting or Diarrhea Undiagnosed rashes Red, running eyes (suspected pink eye) Pedicula (head lice) Undiagnosed swollen glands Children who have been absent due to communicable diseases may return if either of the following conditions has been met: Present a release from the doctor Fever rash or other symptoms of the disease have completely disappeared No nits may be present *Children who are not at school due to illness or who leave school during the day due to illness may not participate in extra-curricular events on the day of their absence. IMMUNIZATION/HEALTH RECORDS 5200 POLICY: All students are to submit to physical examination and other health requirements prescribed by the State of Georgia and the Diocese of Savannah. Students entering Kindergarten, First Grade or a Georgia school for the first time must present a Certificate of Ear, Eye and Dental Examinations – Georgia Department of Human Resources Form 3300 and a School Certificate of Immunization Form 3231 prior to the first day of school. Immunization/health records must be kept current according to Georgia law. All forms must be received by October 1st or your child will not be allowed to attend classes until these are received. Georgia State law requires that all students entering Sixth Grade receive a second MMR Booster. Proof of this second immunization on a Georgia Department of Human Resources Form 3231 or on Form 3115 must be provided to the School Office prior the first day of school also proof of Varicella vaccination and booster or history of Chickenpox must be provided. INFORMATION For further information about our educational programs, please telephone the school administration at 706-7336193, email at [email protected], or visit our website at www.StMarysSaints.org. We also encourage you to visit our school and receive a personal tour. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS 6040 POLICY: Books and instructional materials for Religious Education and Sacramental programs must be approved by the Diocese of Savannah. Instructional materials for other disciplines will be selected by the individual school administrator(s). The selection shall be consistent with the philosophy of instruction and in accordance with the regulations from the Catholic Schools Office. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Textbooks and instructional materials are chosen based on their relevance to our curriculum, input from the faculty and approval from the Diocese of Savannah. Textbooks belong to the school and are used by students. Any damage, defacement or loss of a book will require payment to replace the book. INSTRUCTIONAL GOALS 6050 POLICY: The output of school programs will be evaluated in terms of pupil performance as reflected in student progress and relative rankings in National Tests. INSURANCE All students are covered by a Diocesan accidental insurance policy to cover injuries that happen while students are in school, participating in a school event or school sports program. This is a secondary insurance policy that will cover some expenses not covered by the primary insurance carrier. A 24 Hour Student Accident Insurance policy is available through the Diocese. Additional information about this is available in the school office. LEAVING SCHOOL PREMISES 6060 POLICY: Students shall be permitted to leave school prior to dismissal time with written permission from parent or guardian. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Permission plays an important role in the lives of children. Freedom is necessary to independent living but freedom encompasses restrictions and responsibilities. Therefore, notes are required from parents in the following situations: 2. After every absence 3. In case of tardiness 4. To request early or special dismissal 5. To excuse a child from P.E. 6. 7. 8. In answer to messages sent to the parent To allow a child to go on a field trip To explain an emergency when a child comes out of uniform IT IS ASKED THAT PARENTS MAKE DOCTOR AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS FOR STUDENTS AFTER SCHOOL HOURS EXCEPT IN CASES OF EMERGENCY. Students leaving school during the day must bring a note from a parent giving the cause and time of release and the approximate time of return. LUNCH PROGRAM Lunches are available for purchase in our cafeteria through our federally funded lunch program. Free or reduced lunches may be obtained if a family qualifies for assistance. Forms are available from the cafeteria supervisor, the front office and RenWeb. Money for lunches and/or milk should be sent in an envelope with your child’s first and last name and homeroom number on it. This money will be credited your family account and charges will be made to this account when a meal or milk is purchased. You will be able to see how much money is in your account on RenWeb as well as add money from the Online Payment link. Lunch monies must be current at the end of each quarter for the service to be offered during succeeding quarter and for report cards and/or transcripts to be issued. If a parent brings a lunch that a child has forgotten, it should be marked with the child’s name and grade and given to the receptionist. MAKE UP WORK FOR STUDENTS ABSENT DUE TO ILLNESS When absent, a student should check assignments on RenWeb. Make-up work may be obtained from the homeroom and subject area teachers when the student returns to school. Absentees should check with their homeroom teacher regarding the time frame for make-up work. Having a homework “buddy” helps the child who is absent keep up with missed work. MAKE UP WORK FOR STUDENTS ABSENT DUE TO VACATION It is the policy of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School to have students in school when school is in session. Please speak to the office concerning this if your student must be out of school for an extended period of time for something other than illness and wants to make up work. The school year is arranged for ample vacation time and we strongly discourage removing students from school for vacations. We do, however, realize that special circumstances sometimes occur. Our staff will work with your family to make sure that the best interests of the child are served. However, please be aware of the following: Teachers can, but do not HAVE TO prepare work PRIOR to your vacation. Your child’s achievement may suffer as a result of missing school – some things cannot be recreated! (Science labs, group discussions, etc.) All work to be made up is the responsibility of the student and is to be arranged at the teachers’ convenience. We will make every attempt to accommodate your family until the requests become unreasonable OR until school personnel are taken advantage of. The principal will determine when and if this occurs. If this does occur, students will not be afforded the opportunity to make up their missed work. If ever your student will miss school due to a vacation or trip. Please send a detailed note to the school office and teacher as soon as you know about the trip. MEDIACENTER 6210 POLICY: Media centers in elementary and secondary schools shall conform to accreditation standards for media centers. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Each student in K – 8 may visit the Library to check out books and to receive instruction in library/research skills. Books are checked out for one/two weeks. Reference books and visual aids remain in the library for students’ careful use. To avoid the need to pay for a lost and/or destroyed book, students should return books on the due date. MEDICATION AT SCHOOL 5070 POLICY: Medications, including over the counter, may be dispensed at school with written permission from the parent or guardian. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: In those special cases when a student needs to take a “prescribed or “over-the -counter” oral medication during the regular school day, but the parent cannot personally administer it, the following shall apply: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. The appropriate physician request and parent release forms must be on file and available to SMS’s Health Supervisor before the student will be allowed to begin to take the medication in school. Medication (prescribed or over the counter) is brought to the school office by the parent in the original container. (If you request it, the pharmacy will provide a second bottle with the same label for use at school). For each prescribed medication, the label on the container will list: student’s name name of physician date name and telephone number of pharmacy name of medication dosage frequency and any special handling and storage instructions Each prescribed and over the counter medication will be locked and secured in the Health Supervisor’s room. A log will be kept for each medication brought to school. The Health Supervisor will document each occurrence of overseeing a student taking his/her medication. New request forms must be submitted each school year and whenever the medication or dosage is changed. Any unused medication, not claimed by the last day of the school year, will be destroyed by the Health Supervisor. Please call the Health Supervisor with any questions regarding dispensing of medication. If you want your child to receive an over the counter medication, such as Tylenol or cough medication, you must provide it with your child’s name on it. No medication will be given to your child that you have not provided for him/her. MONIES COLLECTED All monies for tuition, registration, Before/After School Care, various fees, lunch/milk, school pictures and missions should be placed in an envelope and properly labeled (purpose, name, grade and amount enclosed). Students will give these envelopes to the teachers in the morning who will send them to the office. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School will follow policy established by St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church regarding the handling of all monies. NEWSLETTER/SCHOOL NOTICES The monthly school newsletter is posted on the school website and on RenWeb. A paper copy will be given to the youngest student in the family if requested. Messages and announcements will also be emailed, posted on the school website and RenWeb and/or sent home with the students. NON-DISCRIMINATION –CURRICULUM 6250 POLICY: A school’s regular education program shall include all students able to participate. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: St. Mary on the Hill adheres to the curriculum of the Diocese of Savannah, including involving all students who are able to participate. PREGNANT STUDENTS 5220 POLICY: Schools in the Catholic Diocese of Savannah will draw up written, local policy and guidelines regarding pregnant students that reflect the pastoral concerns of the Church and promote and support life. PROGRESS REPORTS Midterm progress reports are sent to all students in grades K – eight. A conference may be necessary at this time. These reports are posted on RenWeb for parents to access. PROMOTION / RETENTION / SUMMER SCHOOL 6130 POLICY: A student shall be considered for promotion if the following standards are met: Kindergarten (1) Mastery of reading readiness skills and math skills. (2)Regular attendance/less than ten absences per semester. Primary (1) Mastery of reading and math skills at the assigned grade level. (2) Regular attendance/less than ten absences per semester. Middle (1) A passing final grade in all major subjects (2) Regular attendance/less than ten absences per semester A student may be retained once in kindergarten through third grade and once in fourth through eighth grade. (PTO) PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION The welfare of the children attending St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School, and the promotion of a close relationship between parents and teachers working together to give total Christian education to each child are the objectives of the PTO. St. Mary’s PTO strives to promote a supportive relationship among parents, teachers, the administration, the pastor, and the parish staff. The PTO endeavors to provide opportunities at its regular meetings for informing parents about school activities. The PTO sponsors many activities throughout the year including academic/cultural events for the students. PUPIL TEACHER RATIO 6140 POLICY: The staff to student ratio is maintained in relation to the age of the child. Provisions shall be made for flexibility in grouping (large, small, and individual), based on the school’s objectives and identified needs of students. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: St. Mary on the Hill follows the recommendations of the Diocese of Savannah as well as the Florida Catholic Conference (FCC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) regarding student teacher ratios. SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES 5100 POLICY: School sponsored social, athletic, and other extracurricular activities may be provided for various age groups. Students participating in such activities are covered under Diocesan Student Insurance during the activities. 6200 POLICY: Co-curricular activities afford students the opportunity to develop interests, to enhance socialization and to provide activities for enrichment. Where feasible, a variety of co-curricular activities, suitable to the age and needs of the students, will be offered. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Extracurricular activities include: Chorale/Drama (grades 3 – 5) Soccer (grades 6 – 8) Basketball (grades 6 – 8) Tennis (grades 6 – 8) Golf (grades 6 – 8) Cheerleading (grades 6– 8) Cross-Country (grades 6 – 8) Volleyball (grades 6 – 8) Baseball (grades 6 – 8) Football (grades 6-8) Safety Patrol (grade 7-8) PAGE Academic Bowl (grades 6 – 8) Junior Beta Club (grades 7 – 8) Student Council (grades 3 – 8) A student must have passing grades and satisfactory conduct in order to be eligible for extracurricular activities. They will be evaluated by their teachers on a weekly basis for eligibility status. The athletic director will inform the parent and coach if a player is marked ineligible for the following week. SPORTS PROGRAM: A well-organized sports program is in full operation at SMS. All coaches are parent or teacher volunteers and they will be responsible for determining which players make the teams as well as the playing time each player receives. Students are expected to attend all practice sessions and games. Additionally, students must maintain their academic grades in the subject areas as well as in effort and conduct. An “F” or “U” makes a student ineligible for athletic competition. Grades and conduct are reviewed on a weekly basis. Each athlete and parent will sign an academic and behavior contract. Good sportsmanship is a requirement for participation in St. Mary’s athletics both as an athlete and as a spectator. Students must be present for at least five periods in order to be allowed to play. Parents are expected to arrange transportation to and from practices and games. All sports teams will consist of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. RECORDS 5150 POLICY: Student records are confidential and will be open only to members of the professional staff, custodial parent or guardian, or to the student upon request. REGISTRATION AND OTHER FEES Registration fees are due at the time of registration. In-school families will register first in January; all other families are allowed to register after that time. Families are accepted according to the admission policies, on a space available basis. Re-registration Fee Payment: Registration for returning families will begin when students return to school in January. Re-registration forms must be completed and returned with payment within two weeks of the opening of re-registration. Open registration will begin on the 3 rd week of January. Payments may be made as follows: Paid in full by beginning of 3rd week in January. One-half amount owed paid by 3rd week in January and the remaining amount due by April 30th. Any other payment arrangements must be made in writing to the school office before 3rd week in January. All registration fees must be paid in full before a student is considered enrolled for the following year. Tuition and/or tithes and Before and After Care bills for the current school year must also be up to date before a student is put on a class list. Open or New student registration will begin the 3 rd week in January. If you have not re-registered or contacted the office to make arrangements for re-registration your spot will not be assured for the next school year. Supply fees vary according to the grade level. All fees must be paid before report cards or transcripts can be released. Registration and other special fees are non-refundable unless a family moves out of town or there is no space for the child. RELIGIOUS AND PATRIOTIC OBSERVANCE 5260 POLICY: School personnel in the diocesan schools are urged to recognize in their programs those religious and patriotic/civic observances regarded as significant by the Church and the local community. The flag of the United States of America should be displayed within and outside the school building. REPORT CARDS Grades in each of the subjects are given on the basis of the actual achievement of the child according to grade or level of instruction. These grades are based on the daily performance of the child, the results of unit tests, and the results of tests given at the end of the marking period. All financial obligations must be paid before report cards will be issued. REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT/VIRTUS 5230 POLICY: All teaching and support staff are required by state law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect. The educator’s role is not to investigate or verify the situation but to report the suspected abuse, setting in motion the process of getting help for the child. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Child Abuse and Neglect: According to state guidelines, all suspected and observed cases of child abuse/neglect must be reported to the proper authorities. RESOURCE MATERIAL 6240 POLICY: Each school shall provide a variety of supplemental materials, equipment, and supplies to support the academic program. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Resource materials are made available to the teachers as well as the students as they are needed. These materials include additional textbooks, supplemental teaching materials, additional manipulatives, and items of that nature. The purpose of the resource materials is to support the students and the instructional program of St. Mary on the Hill. (SAC) SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL The School Advisory Council (SAC) consists of representatives from the PTO, faculty, administration, and the Pastor’s designee. Council meeting dates are published and meetings are open to all St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School parents. Any individual may be part of the Council’s agenda by notifying the school office in writing, either by email or letter, oneweek prior to the meeting date. SAC will meet four times per year as noted on the school calendar. If there are no agenda items, the meeting may be canceled. SAFETY 5180 POLICY: The school’s educational staff is responsible for providing adequate supervision of students during the entire time they are on school premises or engaged in a school sponsored activity. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: PLAYGROUND SAFETY AND EQUIPMENT: All students are expected to follow the established rules for the playground. Personal toys, trading cards, stereos, MP3 players, cell phones, cameras and computer games may not be brought to school. Any equipment that is brought to school without the permission of the teacher will be turned in to the assistant principal. SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS: Students have adult supervision at all times. A teacher, teacher assistant or principal’s representative is with students in the classrooms, the cafeteria, the playground and other areas of the school when school is in session. St. Mary on the Hill has a no touch policy for outside vendors or contractors. This policy is in place to protect the students and vendors or contractors. SCHOOL DAY 6020 POLICY: The length of the school day should be set in such a manner that is not less than state and/or accrediting agency requirements and shall be set to meet all curriculum needs. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: SCHOOL HOURS (8:00 AM – 2:50 PM) 7:40 AM Teachers in rooms for class preparation 7:45 AM 8:00 AM 8:05 AM Students may begin going to classrooms Bell (organizational time, students should be in their classes) Tardy bell (All exterior doors will be secured. Students arriving late must report to the receptionist for a tardy slip.) Morning prayers and announcements Afternoon prayers and announcements Dismissal begins 8:05 AM 2:45 PM 2:50 PM SEARCH AND SEIZURE 5170 POLICY: Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Savannah will comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Final Rule on Educational Records, Public Law 93-308 as modified by SB 105, Article 5, Privacy of Pupil Records, which reads: Police Officers, upon the authority of a search warrant, may make a search of that part of the school premises described in the search warrant, and school officials should cooperate in performing such a service. Every effort shall be made to conduct searches in a manner that will minimize a disruption of the normal school routine, and minimize embarrassment to the pupil(s) affected. School officials may at any time conduct such searches as are essential to the safety, health, and well-being of the students, and to secure discipline and sound administration of the particular school. SEXUAL HARASSMENT 5160 POLICY: Sexual harassment is defined as “unwanted and unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature which interferes with a student’s right to learn, study, work, to achieve or participate in school activities in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere”. This behavior as defined above is forbidden in schools sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Savannah. All allegations of sexual harassment must be reported to the principal and pastor who will review the matter in accordance with diocesan guidelines. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES/INVITATIONS Birthday parties for students are not permitted during school hours. No party invitations may be distributed at school. Please send any personal invitations through the mail to ensure that parents do not perceive the party/activity as school sponsored. Please refrain from sending flowers and balloons to school on student birthdays as this causes a distraction in the classroom. Students may bring in cupcakes, brownies, doughnuts or a similar treat for their class. We ask that we not have groups of families and friends come in during lunch to celebrate with the student. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES If a student is having academic challenges, this needs to be brought to the attention of the assistant principal. Any formal plans for students with Special Circumstances, testing, accommodations, etc. are handled through the assistant principal. Please contact her to set up a meeting. STEWARDSHIP POLICY Welcome to St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School. St. Mary strives to provide a quality Catholic education in an atmosphere of love, respect, responsibility, and religious awareness. The school focuses on developing the potential of each child: spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally, morally and socially. At St. Mary School, families register their child under one of two admission policies. If a school family is an active member of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church, they may be able to attend school under the stewardship policy and not pay tuition. If the school family is not an active member of St. Mary Church, they may attend school under the tuition policy. An active parishioner meets the following criteria: is a registered member of the parish for at least one calendar year prior to attending school, attends Sunday and Holy Day Masses regularly (which is documented by handing in an envelope when in attendance regardless if there is a tithe in the envelope), has a Stewardship commitment card on file at the church each calendar year pledging their time, talent, and treasure (8% of their family income), and honors those commitments, uses church envelopes weekly indicating regular Mass attendance. A family that is not an active member of St. Mary Church will pay tuition. For the 2014-2015 school year, tuition is: Practicing Catholic: $6,350.00 per child with discounts offered for subsequent children Non-practicing Catholic or Non-Catholic: $7,800 per child Scholarship Policy for Tuition Families: GRACE Scholars: GRACE Scholarships will benefit a new kindergarten student or a student who is transferring to St. Mary School from a public school in Georgia. The family will fill out a FACTS Grant and Assessment form to identify financial need for GRACE. The FACTS report and the GRACE Family Registration Form will then be sent to GRACE and to the principal at St. Mary School. GRACE Scholars and the principal will then recommend if a family should be considered for a GRACE scholarship. Regarding the amount of scholarship assistance, that amount will be determined by the GRACE board and the principal based on three things. The three things are: the amount of money available for St. Mary School from GRACE, the number of viable applicants for that money, AND the recommendation of the principal based on NEED as determined by FACTS. Each year thereafter, a family that has received scholarship funds from GRACE will need to re- apply for the scholarship and follow the same process as the prior year. Fees: There is a nonrefundable application fee of $350.00 per child. This fee, due at the time of application, does not guarantee placement. It places your child on a list to be tested if open spaces are available in the appropriate grade. The application fee will only be refunded if your child is not accepted. Refunds will be made from the church office. Placement testing is given to every new student. The fee for testing is $50.00 for each student. Grade placement may be at the grade they are entering or below. We will contact you to set up a testing date. We will need a copy of the student’s latest report card and any standardized testing that he/she has taken. Students are accepted according to the following criteria: Present students at St. Mary School, Siblings of present students at St. Mary School, Students whose families are active St. Mary Church parishioners, Catholic students from the area, or who have moved into the area, Non-Catholic students Requirements For Completing the Application Process: Complete the Application Form, Submit copies of the student’s birth certificate, baptismal certificate, transcript, GA immunization record, and eye, ear, and dental screening form, Receive a satisfactory score on the entry test, If you are an active St. Mary on the Hill Church Parishioner, and a new school family, schedule a meeting before March 1 with Martha Kearns at the church office, 706-733-6627 to arrange this appointment. If applicable, submit a GRACE Scholarship application. Please call the school office at 706-733-6193 if you have any further questions. Active members of St. Mary Church meet the following criteria: • are registered members of the parish for at least one year, • • • attend Sunday and Holy Day Masses regularly, have a Stewardship commitment card on file at the church each year pledging their time, talent, and treasure (8% of their family income), and honour those commitments, use church envelopes weekly indicating regular Mass attendance. Guidelines for Stewardship Families: The stewardship office will review tithing at the end of each month. If a tithing family is not current in honoring their pledge a letter will be sent to the family. If pledge is not fulfilled by the end of the second month the family will go to tuition at the beginning of the third month. If tuition is not paid the family will be asked to leave the school at the beginning of the next academic quarter. If pledge cards are not returned within 3 weeks of date of receipt, the family will be placed on tuition. SUPPLIES FOR STUDENTS A school supply list for the upcoming year is posted on the school website at the end of the school year. A paper copy of the supply list may be obtained by calling the school office. STUDENT PHOTOS All students and staff sign an internet use agreement that states “No pictures or videos of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School events or students may be uploaded to any private media outlet such as YouTube, Facebook or other social media sites or Apps.” It is, therefore, school policy that parents are not to take pictures of students at school or school events and post them to their personal YouTube, Facebook, or other social media sites or Apps without prior approval from the school administration. All families sign an internet release to display photographs electronically and some chose not to have their children’s picture displayed electronically on the internet. TEXTBOOK SELECTION 6230 POLICY: The Catholic Schools Office shall develop a list of approved textbooks for use in elementary schools. If a school wishes to adopt a text or series not on the approved list, the Superintendent must approve the adoption. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Textbooks and instructional materials are chosen based on their relevance to our curriculum, input from the faculty and approval from the Diocese of Savannah. TIME ALLOTMENT 6030 POLICY: Sufficient time shall be allotted in the school day for all academic areas. The Catholic Schools Office shall publish recommended time allotments. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: St. Mary on the Hill follows all class time allotment recommendations given by the Diocese of Savannah, the State of Georgia, the Florida Catholic Conference (FCC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). More detailed information regarding class time allotment recommendations can be found in Appendix V. TESTING 6180 POLICY: Schools shall participate in an approved standardized testing program identified by the Catholic Schools Office. Schools shall participate in the approved religious education testing program identified by the Director of Religious Education for the Diocese of Savannah. SCHOOL PROCEDURE A Diocesan-testing program takes place each spring. The CTB/McGraw-Hill Terra Nova Achievement Tests are administered to students in grades 1 – 8. The tests are machine scored and a comprehensive report is given to the parent. Students are also administered the ACRE test for Religion. TUITION POLICY Parishioners who are active, tithing members of St. Mary on the Hill parish may have the benefits of a parish -supported school, as space permits and according to the school’s admission standards. All new St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School families who are not considered stewardship families will be considered Tuition paying families. Active members of St. Mary Church meet the following criteria: • are registered members of the parish for at least one year, • attend Sunday and Holy Day Masses regularly, • have a Stewardship commitment card on file at the church each year pledging their time, talent, and treasure (8% of their family income), and honour those commitments, • use church envelopes weekly indicating regular Mass attendance. Guidelines for Stewardship Families: The stewardship office will review tithing at the end of each month. If a tithing family is not current in honoring their pledge a letter will be sent to the family. If pledge is not fulfilled by the end of the second month the family will go to tuition at the beginning of the third month. If tuition is not paid the family will be asked to leave the school at the beginning of the next academic quarter. If pledge cards are not returned within 3 weeks of date of receipt, the family will be placed on tuition. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School 2016 – 2017 Tuition Tuition discounts for families with more than one child: Catholic 1st child Non-Catholic $ 6,500.00 $8,000.00 2nd child 15% discount $5,525.00 $6,800.00 3rd child 25% discount $4,875.00 $6,000.00 4th child 35% discount $4,225.00 $5,200.00 Some local Catholic parishes subsidize tuition at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School. It is your responsibility to contact your parish and see if you qualify for subsidy. In order to receive Practicing Catholic tuition, you must furnish a letter from your Pastor stating that you are an active parishioner and mail it to Martha Kearns at St. Mary on the Hill Church, 1420 Monte Sano Avenue, Augusta, GA 30904. Fees for the 2016-2017 school year: A Non-refundable registration fee of $350.00 for the first child and $300.00 for each additional child is due each year. This fee, due at the time of application, does not guarantee placement. It places your child on a list to be tested if open spaces are available in the appropriate grade. The application fee will only be refunded if your child is not accepted. Refunds will be made from the church office. Placement testing fee of $50 per student is due prior to testing. Placement testing is given to every new student to ensure proper grade placement. Tuition Payment Plans: Tuition will be paid through the FACTS program. For questions regarding this, contact Martha Kearns at the parish office at 706-733-6627. Past Due Accounts: 30 days past due - payment must be received by the 10th of the next month to be considered current. 60 days past due – a 10% late fee will be added to your past due outstanding balance 90 days past due – your child/ren will not be allowed to return to class until your past due outstanding balance is paid in full. Report cards will not be released and school transcripts will not be sent to another school until all financial matters are in order. Any outstanding tuition balance for an eighth grade student on May 11 th will prevent the child from participating in the commencement ceremony and from receiving a diploma until payment is made. No student will be allowed to re-register for the following school year if any outstanding balance is not paid in full by May 11th. Tuition and special fees are non-refundable. Questions regarding this policy should be directed to Martha Kearns at the St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church office, 706-733-6627. In order to receive Participating Catholic tuition, you must furnish a letter from your pastor stating that you are an active parishioner. All this information should be sent to St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church, Attn: Martha Kearns, 1420 Monte Sano Avenue, Augusta, GA30904. Check - Writing Privileges A family will lose check-writing privileges after the bank refuses the second check for insufficient funds. From that point forward, all financial matters with the church and school must be paid by Credit Card, certified check, money order, or cash. The church office will make the decision regarding restoring these privileges. UNIFORMS 5130 POLICY: Students are expected to be dressed in a manner consistent with accepted Catholic moral standards of good taste and decency, and in keeping with the school’s uniform/dress code. SCHOOL PROCEDURE: As a means of continuing our Catholic school identity, students are expected to be in proper uniform at all times. This includes tucking in of shirts and proper shorts/skirt/jumper length. The following dress code is required and will be enforced: BOYS UNIFORM K –8 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Plain white polo style shirt, short or long sleeved (no logo – St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School crest is optional). No turtlenecks. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Navy blue walking shorts (no logo), no more than ONE (1) inch above the knee – measured from the bend in the back of the knee or navy blue uniform long pants (no logo). Tan buc shoes, tan suede slip-on Mocs, light brown Sperry type boat shoes, light brown Wallabies or light brown polishable dress shoes are acceptable. Plain white crew socks, no logo. Navy blue sweatshirt with St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School crest/SMS. (No other sweatshirt is permitted). Navy blue cardigan sweater with SMS patch. (No other sweater is permitted). Dark colored belt must be worn with shorts and pants if they have belt loops. School Mass Uniform/Field Trip Uniform (or other designated days) will be white long sleeved, oxford cloth shirt, school necktie or bowtie, navy blue uniform pants, and uniform shoes. Only plain white t-shirt may be worn under shirts. Spirit Uniform – SMCS t-shirt, jeans or school shorts, tennis shoes. GIRLS UNIFORM K-3 1. 2. Plain white polo style shirt, short or long sleeve (no logo – St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School crest is optional). Only plain white t-shirt may be worn under polo shirt – no turtlenecks. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Plaid jumper – no more than ONE (1) inch above the knee – measured from the bend in the back of the 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10. knee, navy blue walking shorts, (no logo) no more than ONE inch above the knee – measured from the bend in the back of the knee and navy blue uniform long pants (no logo) are optional. Tan buc shoes, tan suede slip-on Mocs, light brown Sperry type boat shoes, light brown Wallabies or light brown polishable dress shoes are acceptable. Plain white or navy crew or knee socks no logo, navy blue or white tights are permitted. Navy blue sweatshirt with St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School Crest/SMS. (No other sweatshirt is permitted). Navy blue cardigan sweater with SMS patch. (No other sweater is permitted). Dark colored belt must be worn with shorts and pants if they have belt loops. School Mass Uniform/Field Trip Uniform (or other designated days) will be white polo shirt, plaid jumper and uniform shoes. Spirit Uniform – SMCS t-shirt, jeans or school shorts, tennis shoes. GIRLS UNIFORM 4-8 1. Plain white polo style shirt, short or long sleeve (no logo – St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School crest is optional). Only plain white T-shirt may be worn under polo shirt – no turtlenecks. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. 2. Plaid skirt (choice of style), girls may wear plaid skorts, no more than ONE (1) inch above the knee – measured from the bend in the back of the knee, navy blue walking shorts (no logo) no more than ONE (1) inch above the knee – measured from the bend in the back of the knee and navy blue uniform long pants (no logo) are optional. 3. Tan buc shoes, tan suede slip-on Mocs, light brown Sperry type boat shoes, light brown Wallabies or light brown polishable dress shoes are acceptable. 4. Plain white crew or white or navy knee socks, no logo. 5. Navy blue sweatshirt with St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School logo. (No other sweatshirt is permitted). 6. Navy blue cardigan sweater with SMCS patch. (No other sweater is permitted). 7. Dark colored belt must be worn with shorts and pants if they have belt loops. 8. School Mass Uniform/Field Trip Uniform (or other designated days) will be white polo shirt, plaid skirt and uniform shoes. 9. Spirit Uniform – SMCS t-shirt, jeans or school shorts, tennis shoes. Students are required to be in proper uniform from the opening day of school until the closing day unless parents receive a notice that the students may be out of uniform. Students are to keep shirts completely tucked in until they leave school property. Noncompliance with this dress code, including, but not limited to, rolling of skirts, un-tucked shirts, no belt, improper shoes, improper jewelry, or wearing make-up or nail polish, will be subject to a detention being issued. If the student continues to be in noncompliance, a parent conference with the principal will be necessary. On “dress down / out of uniform days” students are to come to school in appropriate dress down clothing. Clothing should be clean, neat, and not offensive in any way. Bare midriffs are unacceptable. Clothing that is torn, baggy, revealing, etc. will not be tolerated. Length of shorts or skirts should be beyond the longest fingertip when arms are fully extended lengthwise at the student’s side. Leggings or jeggings may be worn only with a top that is a least fingertip length when are fully extended lengthwise at the student’s side. If ever there is a question, opt on the side of caution. Students coming to school wearing INAPPROPRIATE clothing on dress down days will be required to change. Students who abuse dress down days will lose the privilege. They will have to come to school in uniform on days when other students are allowed to dress down. JEWELRY/MAKE-UP Jewelry (bracelets, necklaces, dangling and/or multiple earrings, or multiple rings) is not part of the school uniform. Only stud earrings are acceptable for girls. Only one religious necklace and bracelet is permissible. Watches may be worn. Girls in 7-8 grade may wear foundation or base make-up but lipstick, eye makeup and fingernail polish are not permitted. For all other students, make-up, including fingernail polish or colored lip gloss, is not permitted during school hours. Students with make-up and/or nail polish will be required to remove it. GROOMING/HAIRCUTS Proper grooming is expected of every student. Fad haircuts and coloring of hair is not acceptable and will be determined at the discretion of the principal. (Examples: rattails, ponytails or excessively long hair that hangs in the eyes for boys or inappropriately shaved hair.) Any infraction of the grooming code will necessitate a phone call to the parents to request that the student’s haircut be corrected as soon as possible. Consequences will be at the discretion of the administration. VOLUNTEERS St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School PTO coordinates an active volunteer program to assist in the operation of the school. Please contact a PTO representative or the school office for more information about school volunteers. All volunteers must have a background check done, attend VIRTUS training, and sign the Diocesan Code of Conduct for Those Working with Minors. WEAPONS AT SCHOOL 5090 POLICY:A student may not bring to school or have in his/her possession on the school grounds, before, during, or after school hours, any weapon or instrument that might be used as a weapon to inflict serious harm on oneself or on another person. Failure to abide by this regulation makes a student liable for expulsion WITHDRAWAL INFORMATION Families withdrawing students from school should notify the principal as soon as possible. Once all financial obligations are met, the child will receive an Official Withdrawal Form and records will be sent to the new school upon written request from the new school. If a family is unable to meet its financial obligations, the matter must be discussed promptly with the Church’s accounting department and pastor. APPENDIX II (See Policy 5110) RATIONALE FOR DISCIPLINE IN A CATHOLICSCHOOL The purpose of discipline in a Catholic school is to bring about the self-discipline of each student and of the school community as a whole in order to promote the Christian development of each member and thereby enhance the community as the People of God. The terms of punishment and discipline are often used interchangeably and therefore incorrectly. Punishment is an attempt to control by reprisal, whereas discipline aims to help students determine appropriate standards of behavior. In a Catholic educational community discipline is part of the teaching/learning process. Therefore, it is the responsibility of Catholic schools to attempt to provide each individual student with moral guidelines and leadership. Actions by an individual that deter Christian development are injurious to the well-being of both the individual and the community. Both our faith and our knowledge compel us to view such individuals as needing assistance. Thus, our immediate reaction should be to view an opportunity to deal with such an individual as an educational opportunity, a counseling opportunity, and a chance to help. In addition, the school must minimize the threat such actions present to the community and, when feasible, attempt to educate the school community at large. Having begun to take the proper individual remedial action, it may be appropriate to take public action that may be necessary for the good of the community and should be mutually reinforcing. Disciplinary actions should reflect the welfare of the individual and that of the community. One’s individual behavior should not infringe on the rights of another in a Catholic school community. In administering a program of discipline, the school should reflect the Christian ideals it desires to instill in the students. It should demonstrate its acceptance of the dignity of each person by according each student fair treatment, consideration and respect. In this way, the school will attempt to foster the student’s self-respect and that of other members of the school community. Discipline should be primarily diagnostic and remedial rather than punitive. It should be a constructive process to guide and develop the attitudes of students so that they may achieve the highest possible standards of Christian behavior. Disciplinary rule and their enforcement must be reasonable and consistent with Christian values. Applications of rules must assure fairness through clear definition of rule violation, a specific statement of charges, a fair hearing for the accused, and remedial action that promotes the physical, spiritual, mental and emotional good of the student and community. In the event of serious behavioral problems, cooperative efforts between the home and the school are essential in order to achieve a resolution of the conflict. If parents are not supportive of the basic value system of the school or even antagonistic, it should be apparent that the school will usually have little effect, however talented or well-intended the personnel involved. In the presence of supportive parents, however, the chances of successful resolution of the student’s behavioral problems are good. Whatever the situation, parents have the moral and legal responsibility for their children and should be involved in cases of serious behavioral problems. We recognize that discipline is not an easy area to deal with and that no clear-cut formula for success exists. As Catholic schools, however, we do have a source of guidance. In our handling of student behavioral problems, our goal is that one will be able to discern the reflection of our Christian ideals and principles and our concern for carrying out the Gospel message and the mission of the Catholic Church. Each school is encouraged to work with parents, teachers and administrators to develop its own policies and procedures concerning disciplinary action. These policies should be consonant with the over-all philosophy and goals of the school serving the Christian community and should stem from a loving, accepting attitude toward the student as a person of dignity. The following principles should be considered in developing guidelines for such policies: (1) A primary consideration in all disciplinary decisions is the obligation of the school to maintain a safe place for students and an acceptable learning atmosphere. (2) The welfare of the students and the community must be a fundamental consideration in all disciplinary procedures. (3) Disciplinary action which affects a student’s academic status should be avoided as a general rule. (4) Reasonable disciplinary rules and regulations should be discussed openly and in depth with the entire school community periodically. (5) Disciplinary action should be preventative and corrective, rather than punitive, with emphasis on developing within the student responsibility for his/her conduct. (6) In cases where a student is continually disruptive of others in the classroom, the teacher must consider the following factors in determining a course of action: (a) student’s physical and emotional well-being; (b) student’s learning style and needs; (c) environmental influences relating to home, family, neighborhood; (d) classroom environment including the relationship between the teacher and the student, between the student and other class members, and the teacher presentation and teaching ‘style’; and (e) Advantages of psychological evaluation of the student after consultation with parents. (7) Students shall comply with all reasonable rules of the school and submit to all reasonable authority of the teachers and others in authority over them. (8) Records should be maintained of all significant disciplinary action taken with a student for the duration of his enrollment in that school. (9) Parental involvement should occur early in disciplinary action and parents must be notified in cases of significant disciplinary situations which involve their children, especially those involving suspension or expulsion. A distinction is made; however, both between minor and major discipline and between counseling and discipline and thus an administrator need not report every instance of student misbehavior to parents. It is expected that each administrator will take such action as perceived to be in the best interest of both the student and school community. DETENTION Detention after regular school hours as a disciplinary measure should be utilized only after careful consideration of these factors: age of the student, transportation arrangements, provision for adequate supervision of students kept after school and prior consultation with parents. Whatever disciplinary action is taken must be deserved and fit the offense. Disciplinary measures must not inflict bodily harm, subject the student to ridicule (e.g., sarcasm) or use punishment for punishment’s sake. The following actions are forbidden: A. Corporal Punishment: Even in the event parents give permission for such action, it shall not be permitted under any circumstance. Corporal punishment shall be defined as any punishment that intentionally physically or mentally abuses a child. Within, however, the scope of a person’s employment, one may use or apply such amount of force as is reasonable and necessary: to quell a disturbance, threatening physical injury to others; to obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous objects upon the person or within the control of a student; for the purpose of self-defense; for the protection of persons or property. B. Sending a student outside of the classroom where the student will not be supervised. C. Sending the student home without the knowledge of the parents or sending the student home unaccompanied by a parent/guardian or parental representative. SUSPENSION In serious cases of violation of school rules and regulations, when all other normal disciplinary procedures have been followed, it may be necessary to consider temporary in-school or out-of-school suspension. Expulsion Expulsion is viewed as a radical action at which point the school is saying that the student’s interests would be better served in another environment, or that the student’s behavior is a serious threat to the school community or both. In the extreme case of irrevocable expulsion, the primary goal is neither punitive nor deterrent in the criminal sense (although it may be), but rather the determination is counterproductive for the student to continue as a member of that community. Situations will arise in which expulsion may be merited. While it is not possible to enumerate all cases that could arise, several categories are listed for guidance. Other problems of equal seriousness may arise and should be treated similarly. The following examples may be used as a guide: Arson Continued and willful, defiance/disobedience of authority Criminal activity Extortion Grave defacement or destruction of school property Gross disorder (inciting mob action) Physical assault Possess and/or use of a weapon Serious theft Trafficking in pornographic materials Trafficking of alcohol and other drugs as stipulated Procedures and Regulations Governing Expulsion If a principal, (after conferring with the pastor), determines that expulsion in a particular instance may be warranted, the following procedure must be followed: 1. The administrator of the school must contact the Catholic Schools Office before any action regarding expulsion takes place. 2. Under ordinary circumstances, the student will have been suspended at least once during that school year. (This presumes that the above-stated procedures for suspension have been followed.) St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School e-Reader Acceptable Use Policy & Agreement Form Introduction Electronic readers, simply called “e-Readers”, are digital devices that can store books, periodicals, magazines, and other electronic media. e-Readers like Amazon’s Kindle, Barnes & Noble’s Nook, Apple’s iTouch, and Apple’s iPad are quickly becoming ubiquitous in our digital culture and they simply cannot be ignored. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School, in striving to maintain technological relevance in education, is providing the opportunity for students to use these devices in accordance with our e-Reader Acceptable Use Policy. This opportunity is a privilege that requires extra caution and responsibility both on the part of the students and their parents. e-Reader Acceptable Use Policy The wide variety of hardware and software capabilities of available e-Readers makes them challenging to monitor and control in a school environment in contrast with school owned technology assets like computers, etc. Therefore, our eReader Acceptable Use Policy needs to be specific and clear. A student who violates any portion of the e-Reader Acceptable Use Policy may immediately lose the privilege to use their e-Reader at school for a length of time commensurate with the nature of the violation. 1. All e-Readers must be registered with the St. Mary’s Media Center Specialist and accompanied by the Acceptable Use Agreement Form signed both by the parents and the student. 2. e-Readers are to be used only for the reading of school approved material (books, etc.) and not for other purposes such as communication, entertainment, music, gaming, etc. 3. All material on the e-Reader must comply with the spirit and policies of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School. 4. All e-Readers must have cellular and network capabilities disabled (turned off) while the device is at school. 5. e-Readers must be used at appropriate times in accordance with teacher instructions. The e-Reader must not be a distraction for the student or those around him/her nor be a source of any classroom disruption. 6. e-Readers are not to be used during lunch, middle-school breaks, or during playground/recess time. 7. The student is responsible for knowing how to properly and effectively use their e-Readers and this should not be a burden for the teachers. Students and parents are solely responsible for these devises. St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School does not assume any responsibility for the loss of or damage to these devices. ****Once you have read and discussed the handbook with your child/ren, please sign the “Handbook Acknowledgement” form on RenWeb and return it to us. This may be sent to us electronically or by printing it out and returning. We need this form returned for every family.
© Copyright 2026 Paperzz