St. John Bosco Catholic School
A learning community dedicated to educating the whole child
Pastor: Rev. Gary Regula ~Principal: Mrs. Conner ~ Assistant Principal: Mrs. Reese ~ Counselor: Mrs. Pasini ~ Operations Manager: Mrs. Condon ~ Administrative Assistant: Mrs. Abril ~ Receptionist: Mrs. Haik
Main Switchboard 480-219-4848
Absentee Line 480-219-4849
Staff Directory 480-219-4850
St. John Bosco School Official website: www.sjbosco.org. The 2010-2011 school year calendar is included on the website.
This student handbook serves as a guide for the students of St. John Bosco Catholic School to allow our growth as a community of faith, and the opportunity for every student to learn in a disciplined, respectful environment. As a St. John Bosco Bulldog, each student strives to meet these expectations.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Guided by Jesus Christ, we are a caring community dedicated to academic excellence, serving others and developing the whole child within the traditions of our Catholic faith.
ST. JOHN BOSCO SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
We believe that all children, by their God-given nature, can learn. All learners, users and creators of knowledge, are engaged in a dynamic process of discovering who they are in relationship to God, the human family, and nature.
We believe that our community, which includes students, educators, parents and families, parish members, and clergy, consists of leaders working together as one in God to inspire all to reach their potential. Furthermore, our community assists in the lifelong development of the whole person, including spiritual, moral, intellectual, emotional, and social growth and physical well being.
We believe that schools provide professional and caring educators who, as positive role models, teach traditions and build character. They inspire students to learn and support parents as the primary educators of their children.
We believe in providing a child-centered and nurturing environment. The school community empowers children to become critical thinkers who can problem-solve through life’s challenges.
We believe the ultimate purpose of faith-based education is to serve God and God’s creation.
The following handbook describes the Diocesan and St. John Bosco policies and procedures that govern our school. Parents and/or guardians are noted in the following text as “parent” or “parents,” and it applies to both parents and guardians in all situations.
OFFICE HOURS
Monday-Thursday 7:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Friday 7:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.
SCHOOL HOURS
Grades 3-8 7:40 Warning Bell, 7:45 Class begins
Grades K-2 7:55 Warning Bell, 8:00 Class begins
All Grades 3:05 Dismissal, Monday - Thursday; 1:00 on Friday
MASS TIMES
Fridays at 11:45 at St. Benedict Parish. Holy Day Mass times will be announced. Class Masses will be announced in the classroom.
RECESS & LUNCH TIMES
On scheduled half-days when students are released at 12:00 noon, lunch is NOT served.
Monday - Thursday
Grades 6-7-8 11:20 - 12:05
Grades 3-4-5 11:40 - 12:25
Grades K-1-2 12:05 - 12:50
Friday Snack Break
Grades 6,7,8 10:00 – 10:20
Grade 4 10:20 – 10:40
Grade 3 10:30 – 10:50
Grade 5 10:40 – 11:00
Grade 2 10:50 – 11:10
Grades K – 1 11:00 – 11:20
Fridays and early release days are days of instruction and should not be considered as days to “take off.”
PRINCIPAL’S RIGHT TO AMEND
This Handbook is developed with the staff and will be reviewed and revised, at least annually, in efforts to keep parents and students clearly informed of Diocesan and school policies and procedures. It is the intent of St. John Bosco School staff to abide by all Federal and State laws. The Principal has the right to amend, at any time, this living document. Revisions that are made during the school year will be communicated through the Bulldog Bite and in the classroom as they are made to all parents, guardians, staff members and students.
Student Agreement Form 2010-11
St. John Bosco Catholic School
I pledge, as a St. John Bosco Bulldog, that I will be responsible for following the guidelines, rules and procedures within this handbook, including the Acceptable Use of Technology. I have read and understand the Student Handbook for St. John Bosco Catholic Interparish School
Student Name _________________________________Grade ______
Student Signature _____________________________ Date _________
General Information
General Information
ACCIDENTS
Any time a student is injured on campus they should report the incident to the supervising adult who makes the determination to send the child to the nurse.
AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Fifth through eighth grade students join CYAA (Catholic Youth Athletic Association). The following sports are available for students:
Boys: Flag Football, Basketball, Baseball and Coed Soccer, Cross Country
Girls: Volleyball, Softball, Basketball, Coed Soccer and Cross Country
Students should see the Athletic Director if they are interested in participating with these CYAA sports teams to represent the school. Permission forms and Physical forms may be accessed via our web site www.sjbosco.org. Non-CYAA sports such as Golf, Lacrosse and Soccer may be offered.
Students participating in CYAA sports are obligated to review and understand all the rules governing the sport and the expectations given to all players. See the Athletic Handbook on www.sjbosco.org Foul language or gestures from players or observers is not acceptable and is contrary to our mission. The coaches report unsatisfactory or unsportsmanlike conduct to the Athletic Director and the Principal immediately. The same expectations are held true for all coaches and parent volunteers.
Other after-school activities currently include Battle of the Books, Bookworms, CAP (Conserve and Preserve), Chess Club, Kenya Club, Irish Dance, Lego Club, Liturgical Dance, Math Club/Math Counts, Press Club, Scouts (boy, girls), Student Council, and Yearbook.
Siblings, friends, or carpool members not enrolled in a particular activity are not permitted to wait on campus during after-school activities without parent supervision.
AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
The Student Ambassador Program allows students the opportunity to participate in various public relations and leadership activities at St. John Bosco. Students will participate in a variety of activities on campus including:
· New Student Welcome/Orientation
· Giving Campus Tours
· Assisting with special events including: Open House, Catholic Schools Week, Partners Dinner, Volunteer Appreciation and others.
· Engaging in community outreach
Students wishing to apply should be: in good academic standing, able to attend training session (summer date to be determined), able to speak comfortably with adults and to groups and have a positive attitude toward school and St. John Bosco. Students will be required to submit an application, seek recommendations from two teachers and be available for an interview.
ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL
Students that arrive between 6:45 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. must be registered with MAP. Students arriving between 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 go to the MPR. Campus, including library and playground supervision begins at 7:30 a.m. and continues until the warning bell when students proceed to their homeroom. Students not in class before the bell rings for class are considered tardy and obtain a tardy slip from the office before proceeding to class.
Students leaving campus before the dismissal bell are signed out in the school office by a parent or guardian. Only a parent, guardian or identified emergency contact may sign a student out. Anyone else requires identification and written permission with a parent signature.
If a “Rainy Day Schedule” is announced, students proceed directly to the MPR or their classrooms upon entering the campus. Dismissal procedures on rainy days will be announced before the end of the day.
ATTENDANCE
St. John Bosco students strive to be on time, in attendance every day, for the full day, through the last day of the school year. Missing instructional time, whether through absence or tardiness, is avoided whenever possible. Parents and guardians report a student absence by 8:00 a.m. to the Health Office at 480-219-4849 on the day of the absence. If it is necessary for a student to be absent for more than one week, administrative approval is required. Doctor and dentist appointments are scheduled outside of school hours. Parents reserve family vacations and holiday times to those dates when school is not in session. Students who are absent from school are not eligible to participate in after-school or evening events. Tardiness and absences are recorded on student’s permanent records. Students must be in school two hours to be marked present for the day.
BULLYING PREVENTION
The definition of bullying is when a student is exposed repeatedly, over time to negative actions on the part of one or more students, usually with an imbalance of power.
Victims and bystanders are encouraged to notify any adult as bullying-type behavior is occurring. If the child is not comfortable with this parents can ask for a meeting with the homeroom teacher. Incidents of bullying behavior will be investigated and parents will be notified. Consequences will be assigned in as far as making bullying behavior stop.
CAFETERIA
A student may purchase hot lunch with milk or juice from the school’s lunch provider or may bring a lunch from home. The current lunch menu, costs and procedures are posted at www.sjbosco.org. There are no vending machines or microwave ovens available. Carried in “fast-food”, caffeine drinks, energy drinks, or soda or going off-campus for lunch is prohibited. If a student forgets a lunch, he or she may eat a hot lunch and a charge will be added to their Renweb account. Students do not share lunches because of possible allergies. As in all areas of campus, students are expected to practice their DWP skills and be respectful of all staff and volunteers helping in the cafeteria.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
All students participate in service with the teachers helping to tie their experiences of service to their classroom education. There are many opportunities for students to serve others through classroom, team, or club projects.
Seventh and eighth grade students document their service. Seventh grade students complete a minimum of 14 hours of service, while eighth grade students complete a minimum of 20 hours of service. Service hours are divided between service to the school and service to the parish or community. The form to document this service is available on the junior high website. All documentation is due by the end of the third quarter. A paper reflecting on the service will be due the first Monday in May for the 8th graders. Students who do not meet the requisite number of service hours or who fail to complete the paper will not be allowed to participate in the eighth grade promotion activities.
COMPUTER LAB
Students are permitted in the computer lab only when supervised. If a student arrives at the computer lab or library and there is not a staff member willing to supervise the student, he or she returns to class.
COUNSELOR AVAILABILITY
The counseling program at St. John Bosco is based on prevention, with a focus on early identification and intervention of emotional or social challenges that could interfere with learning. The counselor helps children who are having difficulties with understanding self and others, coping strategies, peer relationships, social skills, self image and self-esteem, or personal adjustment. The counselor can also help with communication, problem-solving, decision-making and conflict resolution skills, family issues, study skills and academic development. Students can ask to see the counselor by filling out a self-referral form available in each classroom.
FIELD TRIPS
Official permission slips are required with the parents’ signature prior to the field trip. Students who do not return the permission slip cannot attend. A phone call from the parent does not suffice. A teacher may decide not to take a student on a field trip for behavioral or academic reasons.
Students are on their best behavior and clearly exhibit self-discipline when they are on a field trip. Students are to follow the field trip guidelines as outlined by the teacher. Students are required to wear their school uniform, unless otherwise instructed on the permission slip.
FIRE AND LOCKDOWN DRILLS
Fire drill evacuation plans are posted in every room. Teachers review procedures to ensure that all students know what to do in case of a fire. Students stay quiet in order to hear teacher instructions. Students can expect to have fire and lockdown drills throughout the school year.
FORGOTTEN ITEMS
To encourage student responsibility and eliminate disruption, items delivered during the day (with the exception of a forgotten lunch), will not be delivered to the student. The office does not accept forgotten homework, uniforms, permission slips or musical instruments.
LIBRARY
Students may visit the library before school and during lunch recess, provided there is an adult present and supervising. Students may be sent to the library with a pass in order to do research, study, pay fines, return books, or check out materials. Only one book is checked out at a time with exceptions allowed for assigned projects. Whenever students are in the library, they are expected to be quiet, orderly, and respectful of others.
LOST AND FOUND
Unclaimed items are placed in a cabinet in the MPR, and if not claimed will be donated. Personal items such as glasses or keys can be claimed from the front office.
MEDICATIONS
Only the school nurse or an assigned designee can dispense medications, including cough drops or over the counter medications. All medications are brought and stored in the health office with a consent form signed by a parent. Students do not carry medication to or from school.
PETS ON CAMPUS
Ordinarily, pets are not allowed to be on campus, before, during or after school. Request to do so must be made in writing to the teacher, who will forward the request to the administration for approval.
PERFORMING ARTS
All seventh and eighth grade students are expected to participate in the evening performances of the Winter Showcase in December and the Spring Showcase in May. The performances are considered an extension of the Performing Arts class and the culminating events for semesters one and two. Due to the participatory nature of the Performing Arts classes, all students are integral to the outcome.
PROMOTION ACTIVITIES
In order for an eighth grader to participate in the promotional exercises and activities, the following requirements must be met:
1. Eighth graders have completed their service hours and have submitted the required documentation and reflection paper.
2. Students have returned all school property and have paid any outstanding fines for lost or damaged items.
3. Parents have completed and recorded their service hours.
4. Parents have paid outstanding balances owed for tuition, Lunch, and MAP.
SCHOOLWIDE QUIET SIGNAL
Leader: “5-4-3-2-1”
- Freeze.
- Turn and face the speaker and become silent, (Voice Level = 0)
- If someone nearby is talking, students can help by pointing to the one who called for quiet.
- While continuing to look at the speaker, be ready to listen for instructions.
- Maintain this position until the speaker is finished and releases you.
SPIRITUAL EXPRESSION
Students attend Mass each week at St. Benedict Church, and are encouraged to actively participate through prayer and response. Students are reverent during school-wide prayer announcements and Mass. The chapel is open during the school day and students may use it with permission and supervision.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Eligibility to run for Student Council will be determined by faculty and the Principal. To be eligible, students must maintain at least a 3.0 or “B” average, and have good conduct reports. Eligible students must continuously model DWP Skills, particularly Leadership, Cooperation, Completing a Task, Following Instructions, Communication, and Service to Others.
Grades 3 through 7 will elect Student Council officers in May. Officers include: President, Vice-President, Secretary, Spirit and Sport Commissioners, and Treasurer. Each homeroom in grades 4 through 8 will elect one class representative to Student Council in August.
Eligible students maintain satisfactory conduct as determined by the administration. A student may be removed from Student Council because of discipline infractions. All elected officers and representatives are expected to maintain high standards in academics and behavior throughout their term.
Failure to attend meetings or participate fully in Student Council activities may cause the removal of a member from Student Council.
Student Council representatives will solicit feedback from classrooms to be presented to the council. Officers will present proposals to administration or faculty as warranted. Student Council may be asked to write for and review the student handbook.
TALENT SHOW
Each spring, the Student Council sponsors a student talent show. Auditions are held and representation of all grade levels, variety of talent (instruments, singing, comedy, reading, dance, etc.), showmanship, stage presence, talent, and memorization are all considered when selecting acts for the show.
TARDY
A child is considered tardy, regardless of the reason, if he or she is not in class at the designated start time for their grade level. Any student not in the classroom when the bell rings (after 7:45 a.m. or 8:00 a.m., respectively) reports to the office and obtains a pass before going to class.
Students bring a note from a parent, doctor or dentist to be considered excused. Students in grades 3-8 are issued a detention for every five tardies in a semester unless the tardies are a result of medical appointments or pre-approved tutoring. If tardiness persists, a meeting between administration and parents will be scheduled to reach a solution. Tardiness and absences are recorded on a student’s permanent record.
TELEPHONE
Telephones in the classrooms are not for student use. Messages other emergency nature are given to students at the end of the day. Students are not to use cell phones without permission and then, only in the presence of an adult.
TEXTBOOKS
Students are responsible for proper care of the books assigned to them. Textbooks will be labeled and covered in paper. When a student withdraws or completes the school year, they return their assigned books in good condition to the homeroom teacher. A fee is assessed for all excessive wear, damages or lost books. All outstanding costs are paid before a student participates in promotion, receives a report card, or re-registers for the following school year.
USE OF TECHNOLOGY
All technology (computers, cell phones, I-pods, and other developing technologies) is expected to be used appropriately and responsibly as defined in the Acceptable Use Agreement (page 15). Students are allowed in the computer lab only when supervised.
For the protection of the students, teachers and officials and for reasons associated to school safety and the school reputation, students are expected to demonstrate responsible social behavior and conduct themselves as good citizens when using the internet, whether on or off campus. As a result, if the school becomes aware that a student has posted or displayed information on the Internet or on any social networking site or other website (MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, etc) that involves inappropriate behavior, they will investigate the activity and the student may be subject to disciplinary procedures up to and including dismissal and contacting law enforcement.
Students are prohibited from posting any materials on the Internet or networking sites, and are prohibited from sending information via electronic transmission that is associated or linked to St. John Bosco School, it students, faculty or staff without prior written consent from school administration. This may include but is not limited to pictures and videos of students, teachers, or officials that are taken on campus or at St. John Bosco sponsored events. Any violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate school disciplinary procedures up and including dismissal or contacting law enforcement.
Additional policy information is included in the Acceptable Use Policy on page 15.
VOICE LEVELS 0 – Silent. No sound. 1 – Whisper. Talking without vocal chords vibrating. 2 – Conversation Voice. Talking so that only someone close to you can hear what you say. 3 – Presentation Voice. Voice level you would use to make a presentation to the class when everyone else is quiet. Other than use during a presentation, this voice level is not used indoors.
Rules to live by
School Rules
The St. John Bosco community lives by four rules that affect the daily interaction of all members.
All students at St. John Bosco live by these rules:
1. Respect the Lord, yourself, others, and property.
2. Bullying and excluding others is unacceptable, preventable and must be reported.
3. Contribute positively to the learning environment.
4. Follow school and classroom procedures.
We have chosen a developmental approach to learning the skills needed to live these rules. The approach is called Discipline With Purpose (DWP). The fifteen skills that are taught include:
Basic SkillsTaught in grades PreK-2Reviewed in all grades Constructive SkillsTaught in grades 3-5,Reviewed in all grades
Skills of a self-disciplined person
1. Listening
2. Following instructions
3. Asking questions
4. Sharing
5. Social skills
6. Cooperation
7. Understanding rules
8. Completing a taks
9. Leadership
10. Communication
11. Organization
12. Resolving problems
13. Iniating solutions
14. Fact vs. feelings
15. Service to others
A safe, calm and orderly environment is important to our school community. Self-discipline is the desired goal. Student discipline helps to integrate character, education, and Christian social living.
Teachers develop classroom discipline cycles that reflect the natural consequences of inappropriate or unproductive behavior. School rules, self-discipline skills, and discipline cycles are posted in each classroom and on teacher websites.
Consequences
Logical consequences may be used in lieu of, or combined with, any of the following to help a student understand the need for, or to help develop, self-disciplined behavior.
In grades Pre-K through 3, consequences depend of the individual teachers discipline cycle (presented at curriculum night). Consequences may include behavior charts, card changes, conferences, notifications to parents, morning recess timeouts, buddy time out to another classroom.
STP (Stop, Think, Plan)
According to the discipline cycle of each teacher, when a student needs more than a verbal reminder, or persists in not following a rule, a STP (Stop, Think, and Plan) may be issued. According to the Discipline with Purpose philosophy, a STP motivates the student to think about their behavior. STPs are recorded in RenWeb. A detention may be assigned after three STPs for ongoing or repetitive infractions or if the behavior becomes willfully non-compliant or disrespectful.
DETENTION
Detention may be assigned as a consequence for inappropriate behavior or to deter escalating behavior. Parents are notified by email informing them in advance of the detention date. Detention is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:05-4:00 in the designated classroom. The student is held accountable for serving detention on the assigned day. Missing detention results in additional consequences.
SUSPENSION
In-school and out-of-school suspensions or suspension from school extracurricular activities may be assigned as a consequence for multiple detentions or serious misbehavior.
THE BIG THREE
Removal of a student from the group is sometimes necessary to protect the student or the learning environment of the school, or both. This might be when a student:
1. Is in physical or psychological danger or puts others in danger.
2. Is irrational or unreasonable, or lacks self-control when correction from an adult does not help.
3. Pushes beyond the limits of respect in speech or actions.
If possible, the adult who removes the child will work quickly to help the student regain self-control. If this happens, the two parties can work together to redirect the inappropriate behavior.
OFFICE REFERRAL In serious situations or when measures have failed, the student will meet with either the Assistant Principal or the Principal. Administration issues the consequences for an Office Referral.
Uniform Information
Uniforms
Official St. John Bosco uniforms can be purchased from any uniform supplier provided the style and other requirements are met.
BOYS’ UNIFORM
Shorts - Knee-length navy twill walking shorts 2” from the back of the knee
Slacks(optional) - Navy twill dress slacks
Shirt - White or navy short or long sleeve polo shirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem in jersey or pique knit
Belt - Solid black or navy belt with plain buckle. Grades K and 1 belt is optional with twill dress shorts/pants with or without belt loops
Sweatshirt(optional) - Navy or white sweatshirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem
Socks - Plain white, navy or black socks
Shoes - White sneakers or tennis shoes with one minimal contrasting trim color, logo no larger than a quarter or black dress shoes. (Refer to uniform link on St. John Bosco website.)
Mass Attire - White polo required. Navy sweatshirts removed for Mass.
GIRLS’ UNIFORM
Skirt (4th - 8th Grade) - Christopher Plaid Skirt 2” from the knee (K – 3rd grade) Christopher Plaid Jumper-either style 2” from the back of the knee
Skort (opt) - Christopher Plaid or Navy Skort (K - 8th grade) 2” from the back of the knee
Slacks/Shorts(opt) - Navy twill dress slacks or shorts
Shirt - White or navy short or long sleeve polo shirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem in jersey or pique knit
Belt - Solid black or navy belt with plain buckle. Grades K and 1 belt is optional with twill dress pants with or without belt loops
Sweatshirt (opt) - Navy or white sweatshirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem
Socks - Plain white, navy or black socks or tights
Shoes - White sneakers or tennis shoes with one minimal contrasting trim color, logo no larger than a quarter or safe black dress shoes with minimal heel (Refer to uniform link on St. John Bosco website.)
Mass Attire - White polo and Christopher Plaid skirt (grades 4 – 8) or jumper (grades K – 3) is required on Mass Day unless P.E. is scheduled for the day. When P.E. is scheduled for the day, P.E. shorts are worn. Navy sweatshirts removed for Mass.
BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ P.E. UNIFORM
Shorts - Navy shorts - 7”-9” inseam, 2” from the back of the knee
Shirt - White or navy short or long sleeve polo shirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem in jersey or pique knit
Sweatpants (optional) In cold weather, navy athletic pants with no elastic at ankle and no emblem. These are only for PE days, dress twill long pants are to be worn other days.
Sweatshirt (optional) - In cold weather, navy or white sweatshirt with St. John Bosco embroidered emblem
Shoes - White tennis shoes with one minimal contrasting trim color. Logo no larger than a quarter (Refer to uniform link on St. John Bosco website.)
Socks - Plain white, navy or black socks or tights
P.E. uniforms may be worn on days of child’s scheduled P.E. class, noting however, that any P.E. day, which is also a Mass Day, requires the white polo to be worn.
Dress Code
In addition to the uniform policy, St. John Bosco students are neat and well groomed. This defines a student’s appearance everyday, whether in uniform or not and on free dress days, denim-dollar days, and at school-sponsored events. At all times, clothing is neat, clean and true to color. Faded or torn clothing does not meet uniform requirements and is not worn to school.
Student clothing should be labeled. Spare clothing is kept on hand in the health office for emergencies. If it is used, it is returned the next school day.
PROPER GROOMING
· Shirts are tucked in, and not “bloused” while on campus.
· All skirts, shorts, skorts and jumpers are worn within 2” from the back of the knee.
· Skirts, shorts, and pants are worn at the natural waistline, and are not rolled or sagged.
· Shoes are tied securely and properly.
· Students do not draw on themselves, others, or their shoes or clothing with pen or marker.
· Undergarments are solid white with no logo.
OUTDOOR WEAR
Hats and sunglasses may be worn to and from school, at recess and when P.E. is outdoors. Hats are removed when students are indoors. Non-uniform sweatshirts or winter-weather jackets (no hoods on campus) are removed when in the classroom or at Mass.
HAIR
Hair is neat and well groomed without elaborate or outlandish hairstyles, as determined by the administration. Spiking, streaking, head shaving, hair dying and/or highlights are considered outlandish. Boys’ hair should be clean, combed, cut above the ears, eyes and collar.
Girls’ hair is clean, brushed, worn off the face and out of the eyes. Hair extensions are not acceptable. Hair accessories, including beads, must match the Christopher plaid, be solid navy, black, brown, or white.
ADORNMENTS
Acceptable jewelry is a simple watch, a single, thin-chained, religious necklace (worn under the shirt), and a single set of simple stud earrings for pierced ears lobes (girls only). Bracelets and rings are not permitted. Nail polish (including French manicure), artificial nails and make-up (including, but not limited to mascara, blush, eyeliner, eye shadow, lipstick/gloss, and glitter) are not permitted.
SPIRIT DAY
On the first Wednesday of each month, students may wear an “official” St. John Bosco team or club shirt including Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts to school on a designated "Spirit Day" day. Uniform bottoms, belts (grades 2-8) and shoes are required. Shirts are tucked in.
DENIM DOLLAR DAY
On the third Wednesday of each month students may bring a dollar, designated for Student Council or a specific charity. Students are then allowed to wear denim bottoms with their tucked in uniform shirt. Denims must not be frayed and must be worn within 2” from the back of the knee if not long pants. On Denim Dollar Day, students can have Free Dress for Accelerated Reader.
FIELD TRIP DRESS CODE
Students always wear the school uniforms on fieldtrips, unless indicated otherwise by administrative approval.
FREE DRESS DAYS
Clothing must NOT be considered offensive in any way.
Non-uniform shirts may be t-shirts or collared shirts of appropriate length and style. Tank tops, spaghetti straps, cut-offs, ripped, frayed, or faded shirts are not permitted. Non-uniform shorts, skirts, pants may be denim or appropriate material. Skirts, shorts and dresses may be worn, but must be no shorter than 2” from the back of the knee. Shoes must be closed toe and heel.
FORMAL ATTIRE
Girls wear a modest dress and boys wear dress pants and a collared dress shirt with a tie. Baggy pants, or pants without a belt, spaghetti straps or strapless tops or dresses, bare midriffs or backs, skirt or dress length shorter than 2” above the knee or plunging necklines are not acceptable dress.
Final determination of appropriate uniform and dress code resides with the administration.
UNIFORM VIOLATIONS When a student is in violation of the uniform or dress code, he or she is asked to remedy the problem. If the violation becomes an issue of non-compliance or disrespect, an STP is issued for the student to reflect and is recorded in RenWeb. The STP is signed by the teacher and the student and meant as a learning experience. In grades 3 through 8, after the 3rd uniform violation, a detention may be issued. Uniform violations are entered into RenWeb for tracking purposes.
The final decision on consequences for uniform and dress code violations resides with the administration.
Academics
HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework is assigned to provide reinforcement of what is taught in class and to foster habits of independent study and creativity. Students (or parents, depending on the age) should communicate with teachers if they are experiencing a work load leading to frustration. Students are taught to manage time for long term projects, but may feel overloaded if they do not use their classroom time wisely or procrastinate. Students are expected to read nightly.
MAKE-UP WORK
Students who are absent from school are required to complete class work, quizzes, tests and homework missed during their absence. On the second day of absence a parent must notify the school for homework for students who are ill and will be out more than two days. Assignments will be available in the school office at 3:15 p.m. for pick up on the second day. Students are encouraged to use homework buddies to gather other information.
It is the student’s responsibility to speak directly with his or her teacher(s) regarding missed work. This is done before or after-school rather than during class time. The number of days allowed to make up work is the same as the number of days missed.
If a child is suspended from school, missed work will be due within the week of the suspension.
Grade level teachers in Kindergarten through 4th grade and special area teachers will develop procedures for late work in accordance with the age levels of the students. Consideration is given for the circumstances under which work was submitted late.
In grades 5-8, homework, class work and projects are considered late if they are not turned in at the beginning of the class period during which they are due. At the published discretion of the teacher, late homework or class work may not be accepted for full value unless there is an unusual circumstance. Teacher discretion will be utilized for each situation.
In the case of an absence, work is not considered late until after the time allowed by the absence policy has expired. Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s work through RenWeb.
ACADEMIC MAKE UP
In an effort to eliminate “0” from the gradebook, parents of students in grades 5-8 with missing assignments are emailed a notice on Tuesdays. The student is expected to attend academic make up on Thursday after school. This is an opportunity to find, complete, or get help on an assignment that is missing so the gradebook does not show a “0”.
GRADES
Grades K-3 Kindergarten through 3rd grade use a skill based grading system that helps monitor the student’s development and basic curricular objectives. Like all grade levels, skill based report cards are kept up-to-date on RenWeb.
For each skill, the teacher determines how the student is progressing by marking one of the following after assessing:
M = meets the standard
P = progressing toward meeting the standard
I = intervention necessary (in other words, the child is not progressing as a typical child in that grade on a specific objective). The teacher will offer suggestions to the families of children receiving an I.
Grades 4-8 The following Diocesan grading scale is used at St. John Bosco for grades 4 through 8:
A = 94 -100 B = 85 - 93 C = 75- 84 D = 65- 74 F = 0 - 64
Students who have questions about an assignment or a grade are encouraged to ask the teacher. Students wishing to appeal a grade must make the request in writing and submit it to the teacher. Final determination rests with the administration.
REPORT CARDS
Grades are posted on the parent’s website through RenWeb.
Grades are updated weekly. RenWeb access will be disabled the last two days of each quarter through the report card availability date to allow the teachers to upload grades.
Each subject will have a final reporting grade at the end of the school year that will be an average of all the quarter grades given. This final grade is the one that appears on the permanent school record card.
ELIGIBILITY
The administration has the right to revoke a player’s eligibility if there is a concern about a student’s academics or behavior, or if there is failure to obtain the necessary physical exam, submit proper permission forms or pay any required fees. Students must attend school the entire day in order to participate in a practice or game.
In order to be eligible to participate in after-school activities, students must maintain a satisfactory academic record and satisfactory behavior. Eligibility will be reviewed each Monday after Progress Reports are issued. If a student is deemed ineligible, they are notified on Monday with ineligibility beginning on Tuesday. An ineligible student can regain active status by printing and submitting a copy of the RenWeb grade book summary to the Assistant Principal by 8:00 a.m. the following Monday. The summary should show no grade lower than 74. Upon receiving a satisfactory (no grades lower than 74) RenWeb grade book summary, the Assistant Principal will make a change in the eligibility status of the student. The Assistant Principal will report regained eligibility to the Athletic Director or moderator. The Athletic Director will inform the coaches Monday afternoon of the eligibility that goes into effect on Tuesday. When a student athlete is ineligible, they will not attend practices or games. Participation in other extracurricular activities may be affected by academic eligibility.
Student athletes are required to follow the guidelines set forth in the student athlete handbook.
ACADEMIC PROBATION Any student receiving more than two grades lower than 74% in any 9-week grading period is on academic probation. The administration will meet with the student and the parents to implement interventions. If the interventions fail, and the student is placed on academic probation a second time for the year, the student may be asked to register elsewhere. Students on academic probation are ineligible to participate in after-school activities.
Acceptable Use Policy
Computer (including laptops, handhelds and peripherals), network, and Internet access is a privilege available to students at St. John Bosco Catholic Interparish School. The goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. These guidelines are provided so that students are aware of the responsibilities required to use this technology. Please read this document carefully and sign at the bottom. Computer use at school may be revoked if a student does not adhere to the guidelines below.
1. Acceptable Use: Use of computers, the Internet, and the school network must be in support of education and research within the educational goals and objectives. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S., state, or school regulations are prohibited. This includes copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material restricted by school policy or staff. The school network includes the use of school computers (including laptops), and computer peripherals, as well as the use of school network services such as the Internet, school e-mail, moodle, web services accounts, and network file folders. Students should have no expectation of computer privacy, as the school may monitor computer, e-mail, and Internet use.
2. Personal Responsibility: As a member of a school community, the student accepts responsibility for proper use of school technology and for reporting any misuse of technology. The use of school technology will meet the guidelines below:
· I will respect the privacy and dignity of students and teachers at all times. I will not use, copy, or delete another user’s files, folders, or passwords.
· I will keep my own passwords private and I will not share passwords with a friend.
· I will use appropriate language by refraining from the use of profanity or insulting language. Offensive messages that originate outside of school, but disrupt the school’s educational process may be subject to school consequences, and will be reported to parents or law enforcement as required.
· I will respect school equipment, including an absence of vandalism or computer viruses.
· I will only use software that is pre-approved by the teacher or technology coordinator
3. Internet Safety: The Internet provides opportunities to access new resources, but it also provides unique risks to students. The school provides filtered access to the Internet on school computers, but to ensure safety on the Internet, I will follow the guidelines below:
· I will not give out personal information such as my full name, phone number, or address.
· I will not give out personal information about someone else such as his or her name, phone number, or address.
· I will not correspond or meet with someone through the Internet.
· I will only access or download sites appropriate for school classes or activities.
· I will immediately report any technology use that makes me uncomfortable or violates school policies.
4. E-Mail and Communication Safety: E-mail and other online communication services provide opportunities for students, but they require careful use. I will follow the guidelines below when using school computers/accounts:
· I will only use an e-mail or moodle account at school with the prior permission of a teacher and will get permission from a teacher each time I use e-mail at school. Instant messaging and chat rooms are prohibited.
· I will adhere to all of the aforementioned guidelines in this Acceptable Use Policy when using a school provided e-mail account or other school provided computer service at school or another location.
· St. John Bosco Catholic Interparish School may filter or monitor school provided student e-mail accounts or other school provided computer services regardless of whether the account is accessed from school or another location.
5. Other technologies: The use of technology can be limited by the school administration or staff in event that it becomes disruptive to the educational process. Student cell phones are turned off during the school day (not just silent)
