1 ST. MADELEINE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Early Childhood/Literacy PK3, TK4, Kinder, 1 st –5 th Grade PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 2019‐2020 H e a v e n F a i t h C o l l e g e C a r e e r S e r v i c e S a i n t Faith*College*Career*Service*Saint*Heaven To Educate and Empower Our Future Catholic Leaders! St. Madeleine Catholic Elementary School 935 E. Kingsley Avenue Pomona, CA 91767 909-629-9495 www.stmadeleineschool.org Accredited By… The Western Association of Schools and Colleges The Western Catholic Education Association
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ST. MADELEINE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Early Childhood/Literacy … · 2019. 9. 19. · 3 St. MADELEINE SOPHIE BARAT – Feast Day May 25 Madeleine Sophie was born 2 months premature; considered
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ST. MADELEINE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Early Childhood/Literacy
PK3, TK4, Kinder, 1st – 5th Grade
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
2019‐2020
H
eaven
Faith Colleg
e C
areer Service
Saint
Faith*College*Career*Service*Saint*Heaven
To Educate and Empower Our Future Catholic Leaders!
St. Madeleine Catholic Elementary School
935 E. Kingsley Avenue Pomona, CA 91767
909-629-9495 www.stmadeleineschool.org
Accredited By… The Western Association of Schools and Colleges
The Western Catholic Education Association
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A. GENERAL INFORMATION
Mission Statement MISSION St. Madeleine Catholic School is Faithful to the core Catholic teachings and values. Striving toward
Academic Excellence, graduating from College is an integral step to pursue a Career where Service to
humanity is a calling to be achieved. St. Madeleine students are committed to living a life inspired by
the Saints with the ultimate reward of entering the gates of Heaven.
PHILOSOPHY
The educational philosophy of St. Madeleine Catholic School is to support the parents as the primary educators of their children and help all students ACHIEVE and maximize his/her potential in the family of God. The ideal of educating the whole child within the framework of doctrine, worship, community, and service is evident in every school activity. There is an emphasis on a developmental approach, whereby staff is sensitive to the spiritual, academic, social, and individual needs of each student. The parents and staff of St. Madeleine Catholic School strive to provide for the students a quality
education, which stresses Catholic values and prayer in a loving and disciplined community of faith that
celebrates the Church and the cultural diversity of St. Madeleine Parish.
“Catholic schools are called to a renewal of purpose, and some reorganization.
The goals appropriate to today’s Catholic educational effort…(include) the need to prepare young men and women to be witnesses to faith during an era
of instability and at the same time to act as agents of creative institutional change for which adequate models hardly exist. While the Christian purpose
of the Catholic school must always be clearly evident, on one form is prescribed for it. “
(To Teach as Jesus Did, NCCB, 1972, #123)
“As we, the Catholic bishops of the United States, and the entire Catholic community, continue our journey through the twenty-first century, it remains our duty to model the Person of Jesus Christ, to teach the Gospel, and to evangelize our culture.” (Renewing our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium, United States Congress of Catholic Bishops 2005, p.14)
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St. MADELEINE SOPHIE BARAT – Feast Day May 25
Madeleine Sophie was born 2 months premature; considered so fragile, she was baptized at 5am the morning of December 13. Since there was no time to call her godparents, a local woman on her way to mass and her older brother, Louis stood in as her godparents. Madeleine’s family was financially comfortable. Her father, Jacques, was a cooper and vine grower. The Barats were Jansenist Catholics, which shaped Sophie’s spirituality profoundly.
Sophie’s older brother Louis was a brilliant student. His parents encouraged his interest in studies and hired a tutor for him. After entering the College Saint‐Jacques in Joigny at the age of 9, Louis decided to become a Catholic priest. In 1784, at the age of 16, he left Joigny for the seminary of Sens. He was ordained a deacon, but was to young to be ordained a priest so he returned home. Louis took on Sophie’s education. He taught her Latin, Greek, history, natural science, Spanish and Italian. He provided for Sophie with an education rarely available to girls.
In 1789, Louis became involved in the debate over the Civil Constitution of the Clergy passed in July 1789 which required all priest to swear allegiance to the new revolutionary state. Louis took his oath of loyalty, but when he learned the Pope had condemned the Constitution, he renounced his oath. He had to hide in his family’s attic then fled for Paris for the danger was to great for himself and his family. In Paris, he was arrested in May 1793, imprisoned for 2 years and barely escaped the guillotine.
When he was released in 1795, he returned home briefly then went back to Paris to seek ordination and execute his ministry in secret. He brought Sophie with him to further her education. They lived in a safe house and Sophie worked as a seamstress and embroidress. Louis continued to teach Sophie; Fathers of the Church, mathematics, Latin and the scriptures.
In 1790, at the age of 18 Sophie decided to become a Carmelite nun. This was impossible since the Carmelites and many other religious communities, has been abolished. For 5 years, Sophie lived in Paris, a life of prayer and study, and taught catechism in secret to children. In 1800, she returned to her family for one year to help with the vines. After this year, she returned to Paris.
In Paris, she was introduced to Joseph Varin, who wanted to create a women’s order devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and involved in the education of young women. On November 21, 1800 at the age of 21, Sophie gave up her dream of become a Carmelite and along with three other women, took her vows as one of the first members of a new religious congregation, the Society of the Sacred Heart. However, because the French authorities had prohibited devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the society was initially known as Dames de la Foi (“Women of Faith”). The first school was opened in Amiens in northern France in September 1801 and Sophie taught at this school
On June 7, 1802, Sophie made her vows. By December 1802, a school giving classes to the poor of the town opened. At the age of 21, Sophie became Superior of the Society of the Sacred Heart. By November 1804, Sophie travelled to France and opened three more schools. In January 1806, Madeleine Sophie was elected Superior General of the Society of the Sacred Heart. In 1820, she called all the superiors together in a council in Paris in order to establish a uniform course of studies for the Sacred Heart schools.
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A network of schools began to be established in North America (1818), Italy (1828), Switzerland (1830), Belgium (1834), Algiers (1841), England (1842), Ireland (1842), Spain (1846), Holland (1848), Germany (1851), South America (1853) Austria (1853) and Poland (1857). The Sacred Heart schools were for students who were serious to cultivate the mind and to create young women who would also be devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and perform good deeds in God’s name. By 1826, the Society of the Sacred Heart had received its decree of approval from the Vatican. In 1832 she founded the “Congregation of the Children of Mary” for former pupils and other ladies.
Over the course of her 65 years as Superior General, Madeleine Sophie and her Society survived the regime of Napoleon, saw France undergo to more revolutions and witnessed Italy’s struggle to become a full fledged nation. Sacred Heart schools quickly earned an excellent reputation. Madeleine Sophie dreamed of educating all children regardless of their parents’ financial means. For almost every new school established, a corresponding “Free” school was opened to provide poorer children of the area with a high quality education. During her 65 years of leadership, the Society of the Sacred Heart grew to include more than 3,500 members educating women in Europe North Africa, North and South America. She died on May 25, 1865. St. Madeleine’s mortal remains are located in the church of St. Francis Xavier in Paris.
“We don’t live with angels; we have to put up with human nature and forgive it.”
“Before making any change, take counsel. Prudence and a wise slowness are necessary in the beginning.”
“More is gained by indulgence than by severity.”
“Be humble, be simple, bring joy to others.”
For the sake of one child, I would have founded the Society.”
“Your example, even more than your words, will be an eloquent lesson to the world.”
“Give only good example to the children; never correct them when out of humor or impatient. We must win them by an appeal to their piety and to their hearts. Soften
your reprimands with kind words; encourage and reward them. “
“Let us leave acts, not words. Nobody will have time to read us.”
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History of St. Madeleine Catholic School
St. Madeleine Parish began in August,1963. Masses were held in a store building on Holt Avenue prior
to the school being built a year later. The rectory was located at 938 East Columbia Avenue. Later an
additional house was purchased and the two houses became the convent complex.
In September of 1964, the school opened under the direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.
Grades one through five began at that time. The three remaining rooms served as parish church and
hall for several months until completion of the main church in early 1965. These rooms served as a
meeting place and hall until they were needed as classrooms. In 1991, a Kindergarten program and
computer lab was added. In 2009, a Pre‐School program was added.
During the 1974‐1975 school years, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange informed the pastor that they
would no longer be able to staff the school as of June 1975. This was due to the decline in vocations,
and it was with deep regret that they withdrew from the St. Madeleine Parish. Since the fall of 1975,
St. Madeleine Catholic School has been staffed by a lay principals and teachers. The 2015‐2016 school
year began with new administration and the multi‐age model of education was implemented. This
year also saw the return of the jr. high school grades to St. Madeleine. During the 2015‐2016 school
year, the state licensed pre‐school ended and TK3 was integrated into the core program under the
direction of the Department of Catholic Schools. With the support of the Bishop’s regional office, the
2017‐2018 school year saw the last 8th grade class graduating as the middle school, 6th – 8th grade wee
moved to Pomona Catholic. St. Madeleine began the 2018‐2019 school year with its new model, PK3,
TK4, Kinder and 1st – 5th grade with a focus on Early Childhood Education/Literacy.
St. Madeleine Catholic School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and
certified by the Western Catholic Educational Association
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A CHILD CENTERED MODEL of EDUCATION
Philosophical Difference on How Children Learn – Social Learning Theory Not Conforming – Mass Production Education
Highly Relational by Design – Have Students for More Than One Year – Investment is Deep by Teachers, Parents and Students
Citizenship in the Classroom – Community, Social Learning
Essential Learning Taking Place in a Learning Community
Learning is a social activity (Piaget, Erikson, Vygotsky); One (1) Learning Community
All Children can Succeed and All Children Deserve Justice – We Advocate for Children
A Child Centered Classroom – Students Own Their Learning and Are Responsible for Their Choices
A Learning Community with Classrooms of Mixed Abilities/Ages/Grades that is Intentional and Deliberately Constructed for the Benefit of the Children with Potential for All Children to Succeed
Respect for Each Child as a Learner is Foundation of Instruction and Curriculum Decisions
Continuous learning driven by the Common Core State Standards, California State Standards and Archdiocesan Standards
Standards are Purposeful and Meaningful
Not driven by textbooks – Child Centered NOT Teacher Centered
Tiered Lesson Plan for Ability Levels – Enrichment, Grade Level and Support (Remediation)
Differentiation and Collaboration
Students Are Supported to Master Standards and Rise to the Next Level
Standardized Test Do Not Drive Curriculum
Standardized Test Drive the Development of Effective Lesson Plans After Dissemination of Data for All Levels of Learners
Conforming to a Test is Not the Measure of Learning Growth or Future Success
The Effective Teacher Designs Lessons for Students of All Levels and Learning Styles
Students Learn at Individual Pace with Support (Montessori)
Students are Thinkers – Ability to Discern for Themselves
All Growth Can Not be Measured by Assessments – Affective Growth – Confidence, Desire, Critical Thinking
Students are Not Limited to Perform with Standards at Their Age or Grade Level; Boundaries are Not Built
Children Learn on Continuum of Standards Regardless of Age or Level
Curriculum Decisions are Made That Will Address the Span of the Grade Levels and Abilities of Students – Differentiation and Effective Teaching Strategies Based Upon the Multiple Intelligences
Scope and Sequence of Standards Driven by Curriculum Mapping
Learning “Outside the Textbook” as Field Trips Are Real Life Opportunities
Child’s Developmental Levels are Addressed (Piaget, Erikson, Vygostsky)
Teach Compassion and Tolerance for Differences
In the Real World We Do Not Work with People of the Same Age or Ability
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A CHILD CENTERED MODEL OF EDUCATION
Direct, Guided, Whole Group Instruction of Common Core Standards
Identify Essential Common Core Standards Critical for Success on Next Standards and Preparation for College and Career – Identify “Essential” Standards
Huge Commitment by Teacher
Cross Curriculum Instruction – Plan Big Units
Children Feel Success – Hook Students into Learning – Student Responsibility
Literature Circles – Use 4/5 Books with the Same Thread of Common Standard
Exposure to Literature at All Levels Including Academic Vocabulary
Instructional Methodology – Direct Guided Instruction, Minimal Whole Group Instruction, Small Group Instruction (Primary), Independent Work with Support, Collaborative Learning (Learning Community) and Cross Age Collaboration
Develops Critical Thinkers, Independent Learners, Leaders, Problem Solvers, Role Models
Develops Conflict Resolution, Peer Relations, Responsibility and Self Esteem in a Rich Environment
Teachers Follow Students for More Than One (1) Year – Know Strengths and Areas for Improvement Intimately
Strong Bond Between Teacher and Student
Mentor Relationship Between Teacher and Student and Student and Student
Teachers Facilitate Student Learning; Teachers Are Not Just Dispenser of Knowledge
A partnership between teachers, students and parents is vital and collaboration is the norm
“Since parents have given children their life, they are bound by the most
serious obligation to educate their offspring and therefore must be recognized
as the primary and principal educators. This role in education is so important
that only with difficulty can it be supplied where it is lacking. Parents are the
ones who must create a family atmosphere animated by love and respect for
God and man, in which the well rounded personal and social education of
children is fostered. Hence, the family is the first school of the social virtues
that every society needs. It is particularly in the Christian family, enriched by
grace and office of the Sacrament of matrimony, that children should be
taught from their early years to have a knowledge of God according to the faith
received in Baptism, to worship him and to love their neighbor.”
(Gravissimum Educationis, Pope Paul VI, 1965 #3)
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General Information
Code of Catholic Christian Conduct Covering Students, Parents, Guardians and Other Responsible Adults
The archdiocese deeply appreciates the choice parents and students make to enroll in its parochial elementary schools and secondary schools. Truly, this is a commitment for life and many families make considerable sacrifices of time and treasure to support their students while they are in school. Often families and students continue this support even after graduation because Catholic education makes a difference. Indeed, Catholic schools are different.
All schools in the Archdiocese are intended to be environments that educate, nurture and support students according to the basic Christian principles of charity and love of neighbor. Everyone involved in the development of children and youth – teachers, administrators, parents, family and friends are required to behave in accordance with these principles.
Our Christian principles provide that:
Parents or guardians are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with the school to assist the students in meeting the schools’ academic, moral and behavioral expectations.
Students and parents or guardians may respectfully express their concerns about the school
operation and its personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous,
scandalous, rumor driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile or divisive.
Parents, guardians, or other responsible adults who insult or abuse school personnel in the presence of
other school personnel, students or parents on or adjacent to school premises or at some other place
where school personnel are required to be in connection with their assigned school activities, may be
asked to withdraw their students from the school.
Conduct that materially disrupts class work or extracurricular activities or that involves substantial
disorder will not be tolerated.
These expectations for students, parents, guardians or other responsible adults include, but are not
limited to, all school‐sponsored programs and events (e.g., extended care, athletics, field trips, etc.)
The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as
to warrant immediate action without warning. The action may include removal of a family and its
students from the school.
“Our young people today are the Church of today and tomorrow. It is imperative that we provide them with schools ready to address their
spiritual, moral and academic needs.” (Renewing Our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium,
USCCB, 2005, p.8)
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Transfer Resulting from Parental Attitude
Any parent and/or guardian or other persons whose conduct in a place where a school employee is
required to be in the course of his/her duties intentionally disrupts class work or any extracurricular
activity that involves substantial disorder, as determined by the principal, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
State law requires that parents, guardians or other persons must obtain permission from the school
principal before proceeding to a classroom or playground.
Under some circumstances, a child may be asked to transfer on grounds relating to the attitude of
parents and/or guardians. A situation in which the uncooperative or destructive attitude of a parent
diminishes the effectiveness of the school administration and/or faculty to act in loco parentis may
result in immediate dismissal from St. Madeleine School.
Zero Tolerance Policy
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles will not knowingly assign or retain a priest, deacon, religious, lay
person or volunteer to serve in its parishes, schools, pastoral ministries, or any other assignment when
such an individual is determined to have previously engaged in the sexual abuse of a minor.
Under the “Zero Tolerance Policy” of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, any person guilty of sexual
misconduct with a minor under the age of 18:
May not have any paid or volunteer assignment in any “ministry” in the archdiocese and
May not volunteer in any “non‐ ministerial” activity or event where he/she has any possibility
of more than incidental contact or supervisory or disciplinary power over minors.
Any parent or guardian who is a registered sex offender must contact the principal to discuss the
requirements in order to assure compliance with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Zero Tolerance Policy.
As members of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles community, we want to assure that it is in compliance
with both “Megan’s Law” and our “Zero Tolerance Policy.”
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Safe Environment Training for Children and Youth
The school and the parish religious education programs have established ongoing safe environment
training programs for students, children and youth. All parents are provided home‐based materials to
help them understand and support their student’s education regarding child sexual abuse. The
approved programs include “Good Touch/Bad Touch” and “VIRTUS Teaching Touching Safety”
(Mandated September 1, 2006).
“Good Touch/Bad Touch” is being implemented in K‐8 in Catholic elementary schools throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The program is designed to be age appropriate to support children in understanding occasions of abuse and to give them confidence in reporting and asserting themselves in situations where they feel unsafe.
“VIRTUS Teaching Touching Safety” is a K‐12 program being implemented in religious education programs and Catholic schools. The program is a vehicle through which parents, teachers, catechists and youth ministers give students the tools they need to protect themselves from those who might harm them.
The Archdiocesan Office of Safeguard the Children works with the schools and Directors of Religious Education in the parishes to establish these programs. Questions concerning Safe Environment Training can be forwarded to the principal.
The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People was adopted by the Bishops of the United States in June 2002. This important document contains the Essential Norms which are the Church’s response to child sexual abuse and the concrete plan to work actively in the prevention of sexual abuse. Key components of the implementation of the Charter include:
1. Office of Victims Assistance Ministry Helps Abused Victims Find Healing. The office is charged with creating a safe and compassionate environment for victims to come forward while ensuring that civil authorities are notified and victims are provided with counseling and other assistance in the healing process. The victim assistance office may be reached at 800‐355‐2545.
2. The Office of Safeguard the Children and formation of Safeguard the Children Parish Committees assists these permanent parish committees in implementing child sexual abuse prevention education, Safe Environment policies, procedures and resources.
3. Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education for Adults, VIRTUS “Protecting God’s Children” is a three‐hour training for adults which teachers the five basic steps of child abuse prevention. This program is mandated for all adults who work with or around children or youth on a regular basis.
4. Children and Youth Sexual Abuse Prevention Programs. Child sexual abuse prevention included empowering children by teaching them body safety rules and steps they can take to ensure their own safety. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles currently offers the following age appropriate prevention programs for children:
5. Background Checks and Screens. All clergy, parish/school personnel and volunteers who work regularly in a supervisory role with children or youth must be finger printed.
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Guidelines for Adults Interacting With Minors at Parish or Parish School Activities or Events.
Revised August 20, 2007
Adults acting in a staff, faculty, ministerial or other paid or volunteer position in the Archdiocese are role models who are called to treat each minor with respect and care. Staff members, faculty or volunteers serving either in a paid or volunteer position need to maintain professional relationships with minors whether on or off parish or parish school locations. Please review the following guidelines and sign the “Acknowledgment of Receipt” for the file at the parish or parish school where you work of volunteer.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers will ensure that minors are properly supervised at all times, thus providing them a safe environment. Minors must be viewed as “restricted individuals” because they are not adults and are not independent.
If staff members/faculty/volunteers who are supervising minors observe a situation where civil law, parish and/or school rules are being violated, they must take appropriate action immediately.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers should always be aware they have considerable personal power because of their ministerial positions. Therefore, they will maintain respectful ministerial relationships, avoiding manipulation and other abuses of power.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers must avoid assuming the role of a “father or mother figure” which may create an excessive emotional attachment for all parties.
Attraction between adults and minors is possible, and care and cautions should be taken in all interactions. The parish/school administration should be informed immediately if such an attraction exists. Dating or sexual relationships between a staff member/faculty/volunteer and a minor are inappropriate and unethical. Dating or sexual relationships between a staff member/faculty/volunteer and a minor are unlawful.
Communications with minors (e.g., notes, email and internet exchanges, telephone calls) must be for professional reasons only.
Discussions of a sexual nature must always take place in an appropriate educational context.
Sexual jokes, slang or innuendo are inappropriate when interacting with minors.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers will respect confidential information concerning minors or
confidential information of a personal nature shared by a minor. However, if a minor shares
confidential information that could pose a threat to the minor of to others, the staff
members/faculty/volunteer has an obligation to notify the proper authorities.
When staff members/faculty/volunteers are supervising minors or young adults at
parish/parish school‐sponsored activities, they may not be under the influence of alcohol, may
not consume alcohol in the presence of persons under age 21, nor offer alcohol to them.
When a staff member/faculty/volunteer is alone in a room with a minor, the door must be open
or there must be clear visibility through windows.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers are to engage in games or sports activities with minors only
in the presence of other adults, or in a place openly accessible/visible to others.
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Staff members/faculty/volunteers planning parish/parish school events in their homes with
minors must have the permission of the parish/school administration. In addition, staff
members/faculty/volunteers may not have any minors in their homes without the knowledge
of the minor’s parent or guardian.
Staff members/faculty/volunteers may not drive minors unless it is to or from a parish/parish
school‐sponsored activity and may never drive alone with a minor. Driving minors requires
parental permission slips that indicate the transportation is by personal vehicle. The
parish/parish school administration must approve any use of personal vehicles. Trips involving
minors must have a sufficient number of adult chaperones and minors to preclude the
appearance of inappropriate personal involvement with minors.
Parent or guardian written permission is required for the publication of a picture of a minor.
Adults are permitted to interact with minor(s) only after complying with Archdiocesan policies
regarding fingerprinting and safe environment training. They may work with minors only as
part of a team if they have not met these requirements.
Boundary Guidelines for Junior High and High School Youth Working or Volunteering with Children or Youth
Revised August 20, 2007
To ensure the safety of the children in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, all youth, volunteers, both
junior high and high school students, including students who are already 18, who work or volunteer
with children/youth in school or parish settings must receive training on these boundary guidelines
before undertaking their ministry in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and must sign a Code of Conduct
form to verify that they understand their obligations. The form is attached as Appendix A.
“From the first moment that a student sets foot in a Catholic school, he or
she ought to have the impression of entering a new environment, one
illuminated by the light of faith and having its own unique characteristics.
The Council sums this up by speaking of an environment permeated with
the Gospel spirit of love and freedom.” The Religious Dimension of Education in a
Catholic School, Congregation for Catholic Education, Rome, 1988
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Faculty and Staff Pastor Fr. Manuel Bravo
Principal Ms. Maria Irma Jimenez
PK3 Ms. Lisa Frank
TK4 Ms. Rosemarie Quiros
Kindergarten Mrs. Rosemarie Quiros
Instructional Aide Mrs. Irma Garcia
1st/2nd Grade Ms. Sarah Gamboa
3rd/4th/5th Grade Ms. Fiona Murphy
Music Mr. Mrs. Gomez
Administrative Assistant Mrs. Heidi Ortega
Extended Care Ms. Mary Castaneda
Lunch Program Sra. Rosario
Maintenance Sra. Sylvia
Curriculum Director Ms. Maria Irma Jimenez
Math Coordinator Faculty
Religion Coordinator Faculty
Language Arts Coordinator Ms. Maria Irma Jimenez
STARS Coordinator Faculty
ACRE Coordinator Faculty
Children’s Liturgy Faculty
Choir Mr. Mrs. Gomez
“The school is Catholic, approved by the Local Ordinary (Canon 803), providing authentic Catholic teaching, opportunities for worship and
participation in the Sacraments, and promoting evangelization and service to the community.”
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Parent or Parent‐Teacher Organization – “Serving Hearts” The main function of a parent or parent‐teacher organization is to enhance and support the mission
and vision of St. Madeleine Catholic School. There are critical realms that the PTO Board must address
throughout the year: Faith formation; Community building; Raise funds for the school’s current
operational expenses: Promote parental support for the school program: and to increase mutual
understanding between school and parents. The membership of the parent teacher organization shall
include the pastor, the principal, the parents or legal guardians, and the faculty of the school, where
applicable.
In addition, “Serving Hearts” exists to support the principal, teachers and staff in their endeavor to
provide a quality Catholic education for all students and to help parents and teachers develop a
mutual understanding of and appreciation for the ideals of Catholic education, especially in terms of
proclaiming the Gospel message, building community and educating for service and worship. All
parents are encouraged and welcome to join the “Serving Hearts” a Partnership of Parents and
Teachers.
The purpose of the “Serving Hearts” are to..
Promote open communication among the parents, teachers and administration
Provide support for the principal in her role as the administrator of the school
Promote goodwill and cooperation between and among parents, faculty, administration and
parish
Direct and coordinate parental support through parent education activities and social functions
that build community.
Help build and enhance the faith community of St. Madeleine school and parish.
Raise funds for the school.
Coordinate service and volunteer programs.
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Student Learning Expectations (SLE’s)
A Graduate of St. Madeleine is a Faithful Catholic Christian Who …
1. Understands the Catholic Faith and Church Teachings which Serve as a Daily Moral Compass
2. Proclaims the Good News and Evangelizes 3. Is A Follower and Disciple of Christ 4. Serves Others
A Graduate of St. Madeleine is Academically Prepared and…
1. Has Achieved Mastery with His/Her Written and Oral Communication Skills 2. Reads At or Above Grade Level for Academic Excellence,
College Readiness and Career
3. Applies Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills 4. Has an Appreciation for the Cultural, Musical, Performing and Visual Arts 5. Uses Technology Effectively, Safely and Morally 6. Thinks and Works Cooperatively and Independently to Accomplish Goals 7. Demonstrates Strong Listening, Organizational, Study and
Time Management Skills
A Graduate of St. Madeleine is a Socially Conscious Individual Who….
1. Celebrates and Respects Human Diversity and Human Life 2. Shows Integrity Through Their Actions and Words 3. Cares for God’s Creation 4. Is A Voice for Those Who Voices Are Not Heard
“But (the Catholic school’s) proper function is to create for the school community a special atmosphere animated by the Gospel spirit of freedom and charity, to help youth, grow according to the new creatures they were made through Baptism as they develop their own personalities and finally to order the whole of human culture to the news of salvation so that the knowledge the students gradually acquire of the world, life and man is illuminated by faith.” Gravissimum Educationis, Pope Paul VI, 1965 #8)
“Within such (school) communities’ teachers and pupils experiences together what it means to live a life of prayer, personal responsibility and freedom reflective of
Gospel values.” (To teach as Jesus Did, #107)
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Arrival/Daily Schedule
7:30a.m. Morning Care Begins in the Cafeteria
Enter on Washington Avenue
Students will be dropped off in car line and walk to Cafeteria supervision.
No students in classrooms, main hall or playground
Students must remain in the Cafeteria until 8:00am when the teachers ask students to line‐up
7:30 a.m. – 7:55 a.m. Teachers on Campus and Car Line Supervision Begins
On arrival, students leave backpacks on grade lines and enter cafeteria for supervision
No entering the courtyard of classrooms
No playing on the playground
Students may not be dropped off on Kingsley Street; Parents must park and walk their children
onto the campus or drop off in the car line.
8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer Begins/Gates Locked
Students are dismissed from cafeteria to collect back packs
Under supervision of teacher, students enter courtyard and line up for morning prayer
Gates are closed when all students are in the courtyard
Uniform check will take place after prayer: “Out of Uniform” slips will be issued immediately. A
violation of the uniform policy will result in an additional Academic Service Hour added
Students who are LATE must come to the front office with their PARENTS; Parents must
complete a Tardy Slip and an Academic Service Hour will be Added.
Parents Who Leave without Completing the TARDY SLIP will be called and asked to return
before their child is allowed into the classroom
8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer / Gates Closed
Parents must walk their children into the office and complete the Tardy Slip once the gates
are closed.
Students will not be admitted into the classroom until parent has completed the Tardy Slip.
Parents will be called at work and student will wait in the office.
A student who is tardy in excess of thirty (30) minutes on each of four (4) days or more in one
(1) school week without a valid excuse is deemed truant. (Administrative Handbook)
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Friday Mass Begins at 8:15am Out of Respect for the celebrant, students and parishioners, students who are Tardy will be walked to church by their parent. Parents are asked to enter through the back doors so as not to disturb the mass. A Tardy Slip will be issued and an Academic Service Hour will be Added The invitation to the Table of Plenty has a start time of 8:15 a.m. Students who are late disrupt the mass when they first open the door to enter the church, take the focus off the liturgy as students look to see who has entered and continue to do so as they seek out their class. Children need to be taught timeliness. Students who are late for Mass will wait in the office and earn a “0” in Religion for that day and an additional Service Hour added to parent total. Rainy Day Schedule – Early Dismissal at 2:45 p.m
Cars will pull up against the curb by the cafeteria
Students enter the cafeteria and wait at their assigned tables
At dismissal, students will wait in the cafeteria. Parents will drive through the car line next to the curb by the cafeteria.
Parents may park and wait by the side cafeteria door
Parents’ please do not enter the cafeteria; teachers on supervision will bring your child to the door.
Bell work begins: Assessment of Morning Prayer given.
Students who are Tardy earn a “0” which is averaged into the Religion Grade
Student who are late for Monday mass, earn a “0” 10:00am – 10:20am Recess and Snack ALL Grades
Students may not take out their lunch boxes
Please pack one (1) small snack only and one (1) drink
Students who bring their own snack will not be allowed to take a breakfast item
11:55 am Pray the Angelus 12:05 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Lunch All Students
Parents on lunch duty service must sign in at the office and follow directions of teacher in charge. NO cell phones or visiting with other parents. Please circulate and supervise.
“Just as Baptism is the source of responsibilities and duties, the baptized person also enjoys rights within the Church; to receive the sacraments, to be nourished with the Word of God and to be sustained by other spiritual helps of the Church.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, United States Catholic Conference, 1994, #1269)
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12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. Office Closed and Telephone Will Not be Answered
Gate will not be opened
If you have a doctors’ appointment scheduled, please pick your child up before 12
Students will be walked out by their teacher and wait on their grade level lines on the playground; Students may not leave grade line for any reason
Students may not use the restrooms or water fountain after school – No supervision
Parents’, who park or walk, must come onto the campus through Washington Street
Students may not leave grade lines until the teacher on supervision has made contact with the parent. Parents please do not yell out for your child to come to the gate.
A teacher supervises the gate and parents may not enter
Students may not wait by the office gate
Students’ who walk home will be dismissed by their teacher – A note signed by the parent must be sent to the teacher on each day the student will walk home
Students may not leave with their friends or other parents without a written note sent to the office on the specific day.
At 3:15pm or 12:15p on Friday, students who have not been picked up will be escorted to After School Care, Signed in and Parents Will be Billed at the End of the Month
Please remember that the business of the school takes place in the front office. Students’ playing or loud socializing by the front office is very disruptive. Please help monitor the noise level if you bring your child/children to take care of business.
Students may not bring Cell Phones to school.
Students may not use a parents’ cell phone on campus.
Parents who are volunteering for any school service especially supervision, may not use their cell phone.
3:15 p.m. Supervision Ends Friday Supervision ends at 12:15 p.m.
Supervision on playground ends.
All students who have not been picked up will be escorted to After School Care, Signed in and Parents Will be Billed at the End of the Month
3:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. After School Care
Any Child Not Picked Up by 3:15pm, will be escorted to After School.
Students who have not been picked up by 6:00 p.m. will be deemed abandoned and after efforts to contact parents and all listed guardians on the Emergency Card, police will be notified.
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Arrival Procedures
7:15 a.m. Washington Avenue gate open for car line
No supervision before 7:15 a.m.
Cars enter at Washington gate and proceed to car line drop off
Students please do not cross between cars; use sidewalk
Students drop off back packs on grade lines and enter the cafeteria
Students may not visit with their friends in the courtyard
On rainy days, the car line will continue, and students will enter the cafeteria
Parents’, who wish to walk onto campus, must park and walk their child/children onto campus.
Students may not be dropped off on Kingsley Avenue.
Students may not enter campus through Kingsley Avenue
No electronic equipment is allowed on campus. (Cell phones, I‐pods, CD’s, etc...)
Cell phones may not be kept in backpacks.
Confiscated cell phones will be returned at the end of the school year.
Cell phones may not be used after school
If a student needs to call home for an emergency, Ms. Ramirez will make the call.
8:00 a.m. Gates Closed
Tardy students must get a Tardy Slip from office and parent must escort child/children into the
office and complete the Tardy Slip. An additional Academic Service Hour will be added to
Parent total. A student who earns 6 tardies in one quarter, may not earn Honor Roll.
Dismissal Procedures
3:00pm Gates opened on Washington
Parents may proceed to car line or park to walk onto campus and wait by cafeteria gate
No parking or pick up from Kingsley Street
3:00pm Dismissal
Students leave their classroom under the supervision of their teacher and must wait on their
grade line.
Parents, who wish to park, may do so on Kingsley or the church parking lot.
Students may not leave grade lines until the teacher on supervision has made contact with the
parent.
Parents may not enter student assembly area
Students may not wait by the office gate.
Students who walk home, must have a “Permission to Walk Home” notice in their classroom.
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Recess Procedures 10:00am All Students
Students are walked out to cafeteria for snack; breakfast served at this time
Students may bring one (1) snack and one (1) drink out; students may not take a food item if they have their own snack
Students’ who are eating a snack must eat in the cafeteria; no food on the playground
One (1) teacher is always on duty in the cafeteria; teacher dismisses students.
Students may play on the black top or grass area
Playing in the restrooms, office area or beyond the marked line on the playground will result in loss of playtime and a demerit issued.
Teacher on supervision will blow the whistle to signify the end of recess: students must freeze and wait for the second (2nd) whistle to blow to line up.
Students may not run to the restroom or drinking fountain once the whistle has been blown. Recess is a time for one small snack. Students will not be allowed to bring out their lunch box.
Lunch Procedures 12:05pm‐ 12:45pm All Students
11:55am Angelus Prayed School‐wide
Lunch is paid for in advance – 1 month at a time.
Students will walk to the door of the cafeteria and stop. Teacher will supervise lunch line.
Lunch may be brought from home; these students may not pick‐up an additional lunch
Students will sit at tables designated for their grade in the cafeteria.
Students may not change location once seated.
Teacher will lead prayer for their grade
Students must sit down and eat; standing while eating will result in loss of play time.
Students may not leave their table for any reason.
Trash is thrown away when lunch time is over.
Students may not leave their table until their table has been checked
Students are expected to display proper manners when eating: chew with their mouth closed and use utensils.
Any student engaging in “throwing food” or “food fights” will earn an immediate suspension.
Students playing on the playground will freeze and stop talking when the whistle blows.
Parent who bring lunch must arrive at the front office before 12 noon. Please write the complete name and grade of the student on their lunch.
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Dress/Uniform Code The only authorized distributor of the school uniform is
Dennis Uniforms Store Hours: 22825 Savi Ranch Parkway Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Yorba Linda, CA 92887 Wednesday – Thursday 10:00 a.m.‐5:00 p.m. 714‐637‐8928 Friday‐Saturday 11:00 a.m.‐3:00 p.m.
Girls – Kindergarten – 5th Grade Blouse – White, Peter Pan Collar with Blue Piping, Short Sleeve Blouse – White, Round Collar, No Piping, Short Sleeve Skirt – 4 Pleat, Plaid, Hem must touch the middle of the knee Girls – Kindergarten – 5th Grade Shoes – Black and White Saddle or Black Mary Jane NO slip on Tom‐toms Socks – White Crew that must be seen over the shoe and cover the ankle or knee high Tights – White or Black Bow Tie – Worn every Monday for Mass and on special occasions Undershirts – Short Sleeve, White or White Thermal, Long Sleeve Boys – PK – 5th Grade Necktie – Navy – Worn every Monday for Mass and on special occasions Pants – Navy, Elastic Black ‐ Twill Pants – Navy, Full Elastic Waist – Twill Pants – Navy, Flat Front – Cotton Blend Shirt – White, Oxford, Short Sleeve Shoes – Black Slip on or Laced Dress Shoe – No Athletic Shoes Socks – Black Belt – Black (1st‐8th Only) Undershirt – Short Sleeve, White, Crew Cut – No Color Undershirts All Students – Kindergarten – 5th Grade Polo Navy with logo Jacket – Navy, Polar Fleece, No Hood Sweater – Navy, V‐Neck Vest Sweater – Navy, V‐Neck, Long Sleeve Cardigan P.E. Shorts – Navy, Nylon Mesh P.E. Shirt – White with Logo or amARTE shirt P.E. Sweats P.E. Shoes – Athletic Shoes, Solid Black or White (may be a mix of black and white) No Color or Logos. Vans may not be worn. White Crew Socks
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Dress/Uniform Code (Continued) Excessive Heat Alert – Principal will send a text message when there is excessive heat. The blue Polo Shirt may be worn on this day. Out of Uniform Slips will be issued if worn on any other day.
Complete uniforms are worn every day and for the Sunday Family Mass. The full uniform daily includes the vest.
Ties are worn for mass every Friday and announced special occasions.
Vest are worn everyday; on hot days, students will remove their vest in the morning
Shirts are tucked in at all times.
Skirts must reach the middle of the knee. Students will have one (1) day to fix the hem.
Skirts may not be rolled at the waist.
Only authorized jackets and sweaters may be worn: Students will be asked to remove any item which is not designated for the uniform once they have entered the classroom.
P.E. Uniforms are worn on designated P.E. Days.; students may wear school t‐shirts awarded during the year (Welcome to Kindergarten, Heart of God, Honor Roll) or amARTE shirt.
Students who do not wear their P.E. Uniform will not be allowed to participate and will earn a “0” for the day.
Out of Uniform Policy
“Out of Uniform” Slips will be issued and an additional Academic Service Hour added to parent total.
Uniform checks will be conducted every day after Morning Prayer.
A written note from the parent is required if a student will be out of uniform, otherwise an “Out of
Uniform” Slip will be sent home. DOJO is not accepted for “Out of Uniform” excuse. Free Dress
Students will earn the privilege of “Free Dress” for special occasions. These occasions include but are not limited to special school activities and as a reward to honor exemplary behavior. St. Madeleine School reserves the right to regulate fads or fashions that reflect negatively on the school and/or persons and contradict the modesty dress requirements of Catholic schools. Free Dress will be announced in the weekly parent letter or through personalized notes sent home with the student.
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The following guidelines will be enforced:
Jeans: No holes, faded, torn, visuals/artwork, tight/skinny or baggy jeans
Shirts/Boys: No t‐shirts, white t‐shirts, shirts with logos or visuals: Polo shirts and button shirts are accepted.
Shirts/Girls: No t‐shirts or shirts with logos/ visuals, sleeveless, spaghetti straps, tank tops, halter or bare midriff tops. Only solid color t‐shirts; no visuals
Shoes: No flip flops, backless or sandals
No clothes that reveals waist, stomach or any undergarments; No oversize clothes.
No jewelry, makeup or polished nails.
The principal and/or teacher, at their discretion, reserve the right to send any student home who does not adhere to the “Free Dress” policy. Any student, who arrives on campus inappropriately dressed, will sit in the office and wait until parents have
delivered appropriate clothes. Hair Girls ‐Natural color: no streaks or hi lights.
‐Off the face and away from the eyes: Both
eyes must be visible.
‐Simple hair accessories
‐Minimal use of gel, mousse or any hair product
Boys ‐Hair trimmed and groomed
‐Natural color: no streaks or hi lights
‐No “spikes,” “shaven head,” “tails” or
“stepped” cuts
‐Nothing less than a #2 clipper
‐Should not fall below the collar in back and
must be above the ear on both sides
‐Use of gels, mousse or any other hair product
minimal
Jewelry/Body Art ‐Girls may wear stud/button type earrings in
the earlobes
‐One earring per ear
‐No hoops or dangling earrings
‐Boys may not wear earrings
‐Body piercing of any type is not acceptable
‐No tattoos or body “art” of any type
‐One (1) light weight chain with a religious
charm may be worn
‐No chains, cords or other neck wear
‐No bracelets except name bracelet
“Jelly” bracelets are not allowed
‐One (1) small ring may be worn
Make‐Up ‐Make –up is not allowed: No face powder, eye shadow, mascara, eye liner, lip liner, lipstick, etc...
‐No lip gloss or colored lip gloss No nail polish or acrylic nails
‐No perfumed products including scented sprays or hand lotions
Hygiene ‐Parents, please monitor your child’s/children’s hygiene habits. Please make sure they: Bathe every day including washing their hair; Brush their teeth after breakfast; and use Deodorant
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Parent/Student Complaint Review Process
Concern for the dignity and right of each person are intrinsic to the Church’s mission as a true witness
to the spirit of the Gospel. Circumstances may give rise to conflicts among students, parents and
school staff. All parties are encouraged to use every available means to resolve these conflicts when
they occur. However, if the involved parties are unable to resolve these conflicts, families may use the
Parent/Student Complaint Review Process for additional assistance. All those participating in the
Compliant Review Process are responsible to strive towards reconciliation and act in good faith. Legal
representation is not permitted at any meeting or mediation of the Complaint Review Process. Any
person filing a complaint is to be free from restraint, coercion, discrimination or reprisal in any form.
School Level
The person bringing the complaint is encouraged to try to resolve the complaint by discussing
the complaint with the persons directly involved.
If resolution is not achieved, the complaint should be discussed with the principal or pastor, if
the principal is the subject of the complaint.
For elementary schools, if the principal is unable to resolve the conflict, the principal will bring
the pastor into the complaint process as appropriate.
After reviewing the facts and facilitating discussion of the problem, the principal will respond to
the person bringing the complaint.
Department of Catholic School Level
If the complaint is not resolved at the school or parish level, the complaint may be submitted in
writing to the regional supervisor at the Department of Catholic Schools, outlining concerns and
reviewing the local process.
The regional supervisor will review the complaint (with such consultation as may be
appropriate) in a timely fashion and will endeavor to mediate and resolve the matter.
However, if no agreement can be reached, the supervisor will make a final determination
concerning the resolution of the complaint, based on the application of the Archdiocesan and
school polices and/or regulations and communicate that determination, which will be final and
binding, in writing to all parties.
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B. ADMISSION and ATTENDANCE
School Student Non‐Discrimination Policy
St. Madeleine mindful of its mission to be a witness to the love of Christ for all, admits students regardless of race, color, or national ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. St. Madeleine does not discriminate on the basis or face, color, disability, sex or national/ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies and practices, scholarship programs, athletic and other school administered programs, although certain athletic leagues and other school administered programs. While St. Madeleine does not discriminate against students with special needs, a full range of services may not always be available to them. Decisions concerning the admission and continued enrollment of a student will be based upon the student’s emotional, academic and physical abilities and the resources available to the school in meeting the students’ needs.
Admission Policies and Procedures
Admission to St. Madeleine is based on:
Preference is given to active members of the parish
The recommended age for Transitional Kindergarten 3 students is three (3) years of age on or before September of TK year.
The recommended age for Transitional Kindergarten 4 students is four (4) years of age on or before September of TK year.
The recommended age for kindergarten students is five (5) years of age on or before September 1, but required by December 1.
The recommended age for first grade students is six (6) years of age on or before September 1, but required by December 1, unless waived by the principal.
All students must comply with current California immunization and health requirements prior to enrollment.
The parish school shall strive to have Catholic education accessible to as many students as possible, both with its educational programs and financial considerations; however, it may have insufficient resources to meet the educational and financial needs of all students.
The pastor and principal will review a student’s continued eligibility for enrollment in the parish school.
The school establishes its own procedures for admission and enrollment.
1. The Family Registration Fee of $400 per child is non‐ refundable. Fifty percent (50%) may be
paid at the time of enrollment with the balance due by the first day of school or the balance built into the monthly tuition.
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The pastor has the final decision, in accordance with the regulations of the Department of Catholic Schools and after consultation with the principal, in all cases of admission and retention. Non‐Catholic parents are expected to abide by the rule and regulations of St. Madeleine Parish, St. Madeleine School and the appropriate regulations established by the Department of Catholic Schools.
Inclusion
Through the mission of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, St. Madeleine strives to serve children with varied learning needs. All educators in Archdiocesan schools follow “Directions for the Inclusion Process in Catholic Schools: Support Team Education Plan Process (STEP) and Minor Adjustment Plan Process (MAP).” Parents or guardians who feel that their student may need a minor adjustment to enable him/her to participate in the general education curriculum of the school should consult the student’s teacher and principal to determine how best to meet the students’ needs. Parents or guardians may request the “Disability Discrimination Complaint Review Process” form the principal to address unresolved issues. Attendance
Prompt and regular attendance is expected. When a student is absent for an extended period of time, fifteen (15) or more days during a quarter, official grades will not be issued and withheld.
Students should not arrive at the school earlier than 7:30 a.m. Supervision in the cafeteria begins at 7:40 a.m. Official supervision by the faculty does not begin until 7:40 a.m. Students must be picked up by 3:15 p.m. Monday‐Thursday and 12:15 p.m. on Friday. Otherwise, After School Care registration and daily fees will be assessed.
If a student is going to be ABSENT, parents need to call the school office between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to provide a reason for the absence. The school secretary will begin calling parents at 9:00 a.m. if the office has not been called.
When a student is absent, a note must be sent to the teacher when the student returns to school, even if a call was made notifying the school. The note should explain the reason for the absence, dated and signed by the parent or guardian. After an extended illness or one involving a contagious disease, the student should have a doctor’s written permission before returning to school
Students must be free from fever for at least 24 hours before returning to school. If your child does not feel well, please do not send them to school. Please report cases of Strep Throat, Pink Eye, Lice or any communicable disease to the school immediately. If a student is to leave school for a dental, medical or personal reason, the parent/guardian must come into the office and sign the student out. Please schedule all appointments for the morning or after lunch. The school office is closed between 12 noon and 1pm.
Morning Prayer begins at 8:00am. Late arrivals are disruptive and interfere with instruction and the learning process, so please be on time. Gates are locked at 8:00am when students enter courtyard for prayer. Parents of students who are late, must walk their children into the office to fill out the tardy slip. Students’ may not be dropped off at the gate unattended. Students’, whose parents do not walk them in, will be asked to wait in the office until the parent/guardian has returned to complete the tardy slip. Student will earn a “0” for any missed work due to tardiness.
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Absence Principals and teachers are responsible for checking the regular attendance of all students. Every absence must be recorded on the attendance register and record. Elementary schools record absences according to the instructions on the Student Attendance Register. Please call the school by 8:30am if your child will be absent. Absences with Acceptable Excuse When a student has been absent, a written excuse signed by the parent or guardian is required, and the excuses are kept on file for a period of one year. An acceptable excuse includes, illness, attendance at medical or dental appointments, funeral services for family members, quarantine directed by County or City Officials or emergency or special circumstances as determined by the school authorities. Excessive unexcused absences may result in loss of academic credit. Extended Absences When, for family reasons, parents wish to take their children out of school temporarily, the principal and teacher will discuss with the parents the possible effects of such an absence. If a student is absent for an extended time (e.g., 15 or more days), official grades will not be issued and withheld. Vacation Absences Please be mindful that an extended absence for non‐emergencies, are disruptive to the students’ academic success. Work during these planned vacations will not be given as the student has lost valuable instruction time. However, upon return, students in grades three (3) through eight (8) are expected to meet with the teacher to acquire missed work. Students will be allowed to make up all tests and long‐ term projects. Any class work, homework or other work that is submitted will receive partial credit. Time to complete the missed work will be determined at the teachers’ discretion. Leaving School Early A student may not leave the school before the regular dismissal time without a written request from a parent or guardian. The request must state the reason for the early dismissal. Tardiness A student is tardy is he or she arrives after the time fixed by the school for the beginning of the morning (8:00am) or afternoon session. If the student comes after the designated time, he or she is marked tardy or absent half day. A record of all tardiness is kept in the attendance register and record and grade link register. Any tardy will result in an one additional Academic Service Hour being added to the parents total Service Hours. A total of six (6) tardies per quarter will result in student not earning Academic Honor Roll for that quarter.
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Truancy A student who is absent from school without an acceptable excuse three full days in one school year or is tardy or absent for more than any 30 minute period during the school day on three occasions in one school year, or any combination thereof, is a truant and shall be reported to the attendance office or superintendent of the public school district. In the event that the school suspects that a student is truant (absent from school without an acceptable excuse), the school administration will contact the parent or guardian. If the school suspects that the student is a habitual truant (absent three times in a school year without an acceptable excuse), and all resources at the school level have been exhausted, the school principal will notify the local public Child Welfare and Attendance authorities. A student who has been reported as a truant and who is absent again from school one or more days, or is tardy on one or more days, without an acceptable excuse, will be reported again as a truant to the attendance office of the local public school district. A student who has been reported as truant three or more times, is considered a habitual truant and is subject to dismissal. If a student has been absent without excuse, and it is impossible to contact the parent or guardian within 24 hours after repeated attempts, the attendance office of the local public school district, the
local police department, Child Protective Service or all of those agencies will be notified. Communication
Communication between home and school is essential to insure your child’s success in school. Parents are the primary educators of their children and as such, parents are encouraged and expected to talk with their child about the days’ events; this includes asking about “Homework,” Tests,” Projects,”’ “Demerits,” “Detentions,” “Out of Uniform Slips,” Family Envelope and any correspondence written in the Student Assignment Composition notebook or work sent home for parent signature.
Classroom related concerns should be brought directly to the teacher first. The teacher is available for conferences thirty (30) minutes before school begins and thirty (30) minutes after school ends with appointment. Please send a note to the teacher or call the office to leave a message to set up an appointment. All messages will heed a response within twenty‐four (24) hours. Conferences may not be arranged for Friday when the weekly faculty meeting is scheduled.
Unresolved classroom concerns or matters relating to the school in general should be discussed with the principal or teacher not other parents or in front of students. Please contact the school secretary to schedule an appointment. Issues that are the domain of the teacher or principal are not discussed with other parents or the school secretary.
Conferencing with teachers between 8:00 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. is not appropriate. Instruction begins immediately when the bell rings. Please do not stop teachers after Morning Prayer, as they are required to lead their children into the classroom and begin instruction. Teachers are required to supervise the students before school (7:40 a.m‐8:00 a.m.) and after school (3:00 p.m.‐3:15 p.m.) so please refrain from impromptu conferences as the supervision of the children is priority. Discussing any issues with a teacher in front of students’, or other parents is never acceptable. Please call the office to schedule an appointment with your child’s teacher.
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Demerits are issued for violation of any behavior or uniform policy. These are signed and returned the next day. Demerits that are not returned will warrant a telephone call the next day Detention is considered an appropriate form of discipline. This is a time for a student to reflect on their choices. Detentions will be issued as per teacher and principal discretion.
As our goal is to guide our students as they develop their “moral compass” and thus make the right choices when it comes to all aspects of their lives. During detention, students will…read the Bible, a rich source of guidance in both one’s personal life and also how to treat others. Students must bring their own Bible and be prepared to write reflections. Detention will be held on after school from 3:15pm – 4:15pm with a Fee of $20 paid to the teacher moderating the detention. An Emergency Card for each student must be on file in the office. These are sent home during the first week of school and must be returned the first week of school. Emergency cards must be updated immediately if any changes occur. In case of a natural disaster (earthquake), students will only be released to relatives or guardians listed on the cards. Students will not be released with anyone afterschool who is not listed on the Emergency Card. Students may not make arrangements to go home with their friends after school. Family Envelopes are sent home every Friday with the oldest child. Please take time and review the information and return the signed folder by Monday. Presenting the Family Folder to parents is considered Homework. Losing or not returning the envelope will result in an additional Service Hour added to the parent total. It is the students’ responsibility to take the folder out of his/her backpack. It is the parents’ responsibility to ask for the folder and read the information. Please take time to read the newsletter which can help minimize the tremendous amount of telephone calls regarding information that is mentioned in the letter. Injury Report/Ouch Report is sent home when a student is injured at school and does not require a 911 call. Such injuries usually occur on the playground at recess and lunch and are minor in nature: scrapes, cuts, bumps, etc…Usually the scrape is cleaned and bandaged and ice is applied if necessary. The report documents the injury and is completed by the teacher/principal or adult on supervision and witness to the event. . Please sign and return this report. 911 are called for any injury to the head, possible broken bones, breathing difficulties or excessive bleeding/deep cuts. Parents will be called prior to calling 911 if the head injury does not appear severe. Parents will also be called if the injury warrants an Injury Report be completed. Back to School Night /Meet the Teacher is held early in the school year to introduce parents to their child’s teacher, school policies and academic expectations. Both are mandatory meeting and an additional Service Hour will be added for non‐attendance of each meeting. Parents may not enter the main building or any classroom to drop off lunch, forgotten books, homework, notes, uniforms, etc…It is the responsibility of the student to come prepared for class with all work and supplies. Parents may not enter any classroom to retrieve forgotten textbooks, homework or any item. Asking another teacher or staff member to open a classroom is unacceptable.
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Parent Conference Memo will be completed by the principal after a conference with parents regarding concern(s) that have previously been discussed with the classroom teacher. This memo serves to inform the teacher of a parent concern and appropriate follow up that is necessary.
Parent Meetings are scheduled one (1) per quarter. Parents are required to attend and sign in sheets will be available at the end of the meeting. Failure to attend will result in an additional service hour.
Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for November. Students are required to attend this conference and be ready to explain their academic choices. Conferences may also be held at any time as deemed necessary by the parent or teacher. Privacy/Confidentiality is the ethical and professional responsibility of every administrator, educator and parent at St. Madeleine. Questions or concerns about any policy whether academic or behavior, etc…should never be discussed in the presence of parents, students or office personnel. Please address any questions or concerns immediately with your child’s teacher or the principal. Please help us eliminate gossip.
All financial agreements are confidential. Privacy when financial matters are discussed is of the utmost importance. Only one (1) person may be in the office when discussing finances with the administrative assistant. All parents receiving any tuition assistance, or CEF will forfeit this assistance if discussed with other parents or failure to provide additional service to St. Madeleine.
Progress Reports are issued three (3) times a year. However, teachers are strongly encouraged to send Progress Report home more frequently as dictated by the students’ progress. Please sign and return all Progress Reports. Forging of a parents’ signature on a Progress Report will result in an automatic Suspension. The Parent/Student Handbook outlining St Madeleine’s policies and procedures is given to all families at the beginning of the year. Please review the handbook and return the signature page. The principal reserves the Right to Amend the Parent/Student Handbook as needed. Student Homework Notebook/Folder was reviewed at the beginning of the year. The Homework Agenda, serves as a source of communication between school and home and as such, please select a place in the home where this can be left open for your review. Please label one folder “Homework” where All homework demerits, praise notes, and any form of written communication will be placed. The student is responsible for writing down their homework. Teachers will not write down any students’ homework. Kindergarten begins writing their own homework in January. Teachers will also post their homework by 4pm on classroom DOJO. Teachers will also document in the Homework Agenda any missed Academic Responsibilities as per the Contract which then become additional service hours for the parent. Closed Campus ‐ Security/Safety Rules To preserve the academic environment and school security, archdiocesan and parish schools are designated “closed campus.” No person may enter the campus unless authorized by the school administration. Back gates, Cafeteria doors and Panic Doors are closed and locked at all times.
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St. Madeleine is a closed campus. Other than school personnel and authorized visitors, no one is allowed on campus at any time without the explicit permission of the principal. All visitors are required to report and sign in at the office. Visitors on campus may not use student restrooms. A restroom is available in the front office. The principal, with the assistance of the staff and local emergency preparedness officials, have developed a written plan for emergency procedures. All faculty and staff are assigned a specific job for emergency response and are prepared to assume any role to protect students.
School maps are posted in each classroom, hall and office.
Escape routes are clearly shown with arrows over the exits in the hallway.
Emergency drills are held monthly in conformity with state and local requirements; records of dates and times are kept in office.
In an emergency, the entire student body will assemble in the center of the grass area.
In case of a national or citywide disaster, St. Madeleine School will follow the directives of the Pomona Fire and Police Departments.
In case of an earthquake, the campus will be closed.
Following the direction of the Pomona Police Department, the campus will be closed when any police action is in progress in close proximity to the school.
Any student who interrupts or does not follow proper behavior/protocol during any emergency drill will be issued a detention.
Emergency Cards are critical. Please make sure that these are returned the first week of school with correct information. If a change occurs during the school year, please inform the school. A student may only be released to a person(s) listed on the card and only with picture identification. Active Shooter
Drills are conducted monthly
Continuous blowing of whistle on playground signifies to clear the playground
Students take shelter in computer room
If safe, students will exit through front gates
Safe Zone is the fire station on San Antonio
While in classrooms, doors are locked at all times
If safe, students will exit through front gate
Back door of classroom used as secondary exit
Shelter in place if active shooter in courtyard
Bear Spray and other safety items will be kept by front door (Oil, Marbles)
Bomb Threats
The police will be notified immediately and their directives will be followed:
Office personnel will follow procedures in Archdiocesan Response Book
Emergency personnel are called
Decision to evacuate is made by the emergency personnel and principal
If building is evacuated, fire drill procedures are followed
Students may be relocated by emergency personnel
Relocation includes parish parking lot on Washington Avenue
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Earthquake Drills
Earthquake drills are held once a month. Students practice dropping and taking cover under their desks, covering their face, neck and back of head. After receiving the “all clear” command as determined by the teacher, students will evacuate the building. Students walk out in an orderly fashion and line up on the grass area at which time attendance will be taken. After determining the absence or presence of every student, teachers designated to “Student Control” will move students to the middle of the grass area. As per the “Disaster Plan” each teacher and staff member will move to their assigned task: First Aid, Parent Control, Search and Rescue, Student Control. Student Earth Quake Supplies will be stored in plastic bins located in the cafeteria where personnel has access.
If emergency personnel and administration determine that the school in not safe, students will be moved to the alternate locations. Should students remain at St. Madeleine the only access to the school will be through the gate on Kingsley Avenue. “Parent Control” entails that parents or guardians will come to this gate, emergency cards will be checked and present a picture identification before any child is released. Children will only be released to those listed on the Emergency Card. If parents are unable to arrive at school, emergency supplies are available to insure the well being of every child. Students: Talking, playing, and in any way interfering with the serious nature of this drill, will result in detention. Fire Drills
Fire drills are held once a month to comply with state and local fire safety regulations. Once the fire alarm is released, students are to immediately evacuate the building and assembly by the rectory where teachers will take attendance. Students: Talking, playing, and in any way interfering with the serious nature of this drill, will result in a Detention and a $20 Fee.
Closed Campus ‐ Security/Safety Rules
Lockdown/”Sheltered” St. Madeleine determines a “lockdown/sheltered” situation either by administrative decision or by notification by law enforcement due to a possibility of danger at school or in the immediate neighborhood. No one will be admitted onto the school grounds or be allowed to leave campus without permission from the principal and local authorities.
All faculty and staff should be alert for danger outside the school gates and actively/vigilantly monitor all school visitors.
A lockdown will be announced over the school public announcement system.
All classroom doors and doors to the main building will be locked.
Cafeteria doors and panic doors are locked and closed during school hours.
Students will sit on the floor in the center of the classroom away from the windows.
Students who are outside of their classroom should go into the nearest classroom.
Students at recess or P.E. should go to the nearest classroom.
During lunch, students at the lunch tables will assemble in the auditorium.
For any emergency, the campus is CLOSED. Parents may enter the campus only through the Kingsley Avenue Gate. Proper identification must be presented that matches the names on the Emergency Card.
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Work Permits
Under California law and other relevant laws, a student under the age of 16 years old, may not work without a work permit issued by the appropriate authority. To obtain a work permit, certain information is required from St. Madeleine. Information regarding work permits and how to apply is available from the California Department of Education website: www.cde.ca.gov.
The minor/student after obtaining a promise of employment must obtain a “Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit.” The minor, the employer, and parent/guardian must each complete their sections and submit the completed application to the school. The school will verify the information entered on the application by the minor and parent or guardian and will also examine the student’s records and consult the teacher to confirm the student’s satisfactory academic achievement to date. The student must then submit the form to the “work permit issuing authority.” If all requirements are met, the work permit issuing authority may issue the “Permit to Employ and Work.” The “work permit issuing authority” may be the local public school superintendent, those persons authorized in writing by the public school Superintendent to issue the permit, or a school staff member who has been designated and trained as the work permit issuing authority for the school. A copy of the signed work permit must be kept in the student’s file. For additional information and forms see http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSE/ChildLaborPamphlet2000.html Pupil Records “Pupil records” means any record related to a student that is maintained by St. Madeleine or one of its employees. It includes health records. It does not include “directory information” or a school employee’s informal notes, if the notes remain in the sole possession of the maker and are not made available to others, except to a substitute.
Only the principal, as custodian of the records, authorized the release of pupil records. Only teachers or administrators charged with pupil oversight have the right to view or use pupil records. A teacher’s aide may view or use pupil records only with direct teacher supervision. Pupil records may be released by judicial order such as a subpoena or a search warrant. In specific cases, such as suspicion of kidnapping, police officers may be given access to records.
Parents and legal guardian of minors have the absolute right to access their child’s records in accordance with St. Madeleine’s reasonable procedures for providing such access. Parents or legal guardian may grant any specified person written consent to access specifically identified pupil records. In cases of legal separation and/or divorce, California state law gives the custodial parents and a non‐custodial parent with visitation rights, the right to access and examine pupil records. However, only the custodial parent may consent to the release of records and has the right to challenge the consent of the record and to write responses to information regarding disciplinary action. A non‐custodial parent without visitation rights has no right of access to records of any kind.
Maintaining confidentiality is the legal, ethical and professional responsibility of every member of the St. Madeleine School community, including students, parent/guardian, teachers, aides and all other employees. Every member of the school community must respect the privacy of all students, families, employees, principal and pastor.
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Directory Information
Directory information means one or more of the following items: pupil’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of the athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most recent previous public or private school attended by the pupil.
The school will, to the extent possible, minimize access to student telephone numbers or personal e‐mail addresses, unless the parents or legal guardians’ consent to broader access. To the extent possible, users should try to minimize access to or distribution of student telephone numbers or personal e‐mail addresses, unless the parent or legal guardians’ consent to broader access.
Room parent rosters, class lists, telephone numbers, e‐mail addresses or any other personal information about families and students are considered confidential and may be used only for the purposes specified. In no case should commercial enterprises be given access to directory information.
Parent Authorization to Use Child’s Personal Information
Whenever a student’s image, name, voice and/or work is to be published or used for non‐commercial purposes, including, but not limited to, publicity, exhibits, printed or electronic media broadcasts, student publications, marketing or research, parents must execute the Parent’s Authorization to Use Child’s Image, Name, Voice and/or Work for Non‐Commercial Purposes giving permission for such publication. (See Appendix for Parent’s Authorization to Use Child’s Image, Name, Voice and/or Work for Non‐Commercial Purposes)
Verbal/Written Confidences
Confidential information may be provided by students or parents/guardians to school employees in many ways. Students may confide in staff verbally, in writing, such as a note or a writing/journal assignment. All school employees must respect the verbal or written confidences of adults and students, except in cases where the health or safety of the student or others is involved. If the confidence received relates to a health or safety issue, the pastor, principal or other persons in charge or appropriate authorities must be notified promptly, keeping in mind the right of privacy that apply. Archdiocesan policy on reporting suspected child abuse or vulnerable adults must be followed when applicable.
Transfer of Records
Student Transfers, Withdrawals and Graduation
Whenever a student transfers from one school to another, a copy of the Cumulative Student Report and the original Health Records shall be transferred by St. Madeleine upon a request from the school where the student intends to enroll and a release from the parent or guardian. The original Cumulative Student Record will remain at St. Madeleine.
A record of the transfer, the reason for the transfer, and the name of the school to which the student is transferring or entering after graduation should be entered on the original copy of the Cumulative Student Record and in the Student Attendance Register. Official transcripts are not given to students or parent. The school grants full credit for all work a student accomplishes up to the time of transfer. Principals may be required by the County Board of Education to report the severance of attendance by any student. St. Madeleine may decline to send transcripts until the students’ financial obligations have been met.
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Withholding of Records Under California law, a private school cannot refuse to provide student records to a requesting school because of any charges, including tuition or fees that are owed by the student or parent. However, the school may withhold from parents or guardians the grades, diploma, or transcripts of a pupil pending payment of certain amounts for damaged property, the return of loaned property or unpaid tuition or fees in accordance with school policy.
Cumulative Pupil Record
Full and accurate records, including standardized test results, of each student are entered on the official archdiocese Cumulative Student Record form and are kept on file permanently. Only authorized personnel have access to these records. Health records are maintained in a separate file. Permanent record cards include only the following information:
Personal and family data with certification of name, place and date of birth of the student and the name and address of the parent or guardian having custody of the student.
Standardized test data
Transcript of classes
Attendance information shall be included
Record of withdrawal or graduation and place to which any copy of the record is sent
Verification of or exemption from required immunization through high school graduation Removal of Students from School during School Hours
No agency, organization, or person other than a parent or guardian who has custody or a delegated school employee is allowed to take a student from the school premises during school hours or immediately before or after school. Exceptions to this rule may be made only:
By the parent or guardian, when properly identified
Upon the written request of the parent or guardian after proper verification
By properly identified law enforcement officers when an arrest is made
By properly identified representatives of law enforcement agencies, in case of emergency, as determined by the principal
Legally, the responsibility of notifying the parent or guardian of a student taken from the school by a law enforcement officer or representative of a law enforcement agency rests with the law enforcement officer. However, the principal of the school should also immediately inform the student’s parent or guardian except when a minor has been taken into custody as a victim of suspected child abuse, as defined in Section 11165 of the Penal Code or pursuant to Section 305 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.
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Interview and Removal from School of Students by Police Officers
Police officers have the right during the school day to interview students who are suspects or witnesses. School personnel should not hinder the release of a student to police officers. School personnel are not liable for releasing students for this purpose, or other legitimate law enforcement purposes, which require taking the pupil from the school if they are taken with “proper standard of care” which is define below.
When a student is taken into police custody and removed from school during school hours, the school will inform the parents or guardians except in child abuse cases and will remain a record of circumstances involved.
Students can be removed from school during school hours by law enforcement only under the following conditions:
By properly identified representative of law enforcement agencies who are making an arrest, with or without a warrant, presenting a warrant for the arrest of a pupil, or taking a student into custody without a warrant.
By properly identified representatives of law enforcement agencies when not making an arrest or taking a child into custody as stated above under the following conditions, with the express expression of the parent obtained prior to the release of the pupil and in cases of emergency, when parents cannot be reached.
By properly identified representatives of a Child Protective Agency when taking a child into custody.
Principals must notify the Department of Catholic Schools if a student is removed from school by law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
Interview of a Child during School Hours by a Police Officer
Upon presentation of proper identification to the principal or his or her designee, duly authorized representatives of law enforcement agencies and the child protective agencies in the performance of their official duties shall be allowed to interview students in those cases in which an interview out of school hours is impossible, impractical or would duly interfere with the enforcement of law.
Although the law does not require it, the parent or guardian should be informed by the principal that such an interview has taken place, except upon request of law enforcement. It is the policy of the Archdiocese that an adult, either a parent or guardian or school staff person will be present for any interview unless the student selects otherwise.
Before releasing the student for the interview, the principal must exercise the “proper standard of care” which is to:
Obtain a business card and confirm the identity and official capacity of the police officer and the authority under which he or she acts. In the case of the release of the student to the officer, the reason for such an action
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Interview of a Child during School Hours by a Police Officer (Continued)
Child Protective Agency workers may interview for the purpose of their legal obligations to investigate reported child abuse or neglect. Child Protective Agency workers are authorized to assume custody to remove a child from school.
Before a student is taken into police custody and removed from the school during school hours, the school will attempt to inform the student’s parent or guardian. The school will maintain a record of the circumstances involved. In cases of child abuse, parental notification is the responsibility of police officers.
Informing the Parent or Guardian When a Student Has Been Removed from School by a Police Officer
While it is the duty of the police officer to notify the parent or guardian of the person taken into custody or placed in detention, the school principal shall take immediate steps to notify the parent or guardian of the minor regarding the release of the student to the officer and regarding the place to which the student is reportedly being taken, except when a student has been taken into custody as a victim of suspected child abuse. Even in the case of child abuse it is the Child Protective Agency’s duty to notify the parent or guardian. Damaged of Loaned Property
St. Madeleine can refuse to provide students records to a requesting school because of any charges including tuition or fees that are owed by the student or parent. St. Madeleine may withhold from parents/guardians the grades, diplomas or transcripts of a pupil pending payment of certain amounts for damaged property, or the return of loaned property, in accordance with St. Madeleine policy. Student Insurance The Student Accident Insurance Program is provided for all full‐time students in Archdiocesan schools/parish. This program assists only with medical expenses incurred because of accidental bodily injury sustained by students while attending St. Madeleine, while traveling to or from school or while participating in a school sponsored and supervised activity, including school sponsored sports and extended day program. The insurance supplements any insurance maintained by the parents.
Emergency Card
Each student shall have an Emergency Card that is complete, current, and readily available to the school. The student’s parent or guardian is required to inform the school when there are changes to a home, cell or work phone number or address, the names of persons to notify in case of an emergency, or to any medication prescription for a student. The Emergency Card shall indicate whether or not the parent or guardian gives the school permission to choose a physician in an emergency.
In case of an emergency, the Emergency Card will be shown to the paramedics or emergency room staff to authorize treatment, and to advise them if a student has any particular medial needs or is on medication. Therefore, it is imperative that the information be accurate, complete, and up‐to‐date.
When a student become ill or is injured, the parent or guardian will be contacted immediately. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, another person listed on the emergency card will be contacted.
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Only minor and very basic first aid will be administered to students at school; no secondary treatment, such as changing or removing bandages, will be administered. Parents or guardians will be contacted immediately if there is any question regarding the seriousness of or complications arising from an injury.
Examinations and Inoculations A student, with the permission of the parent or guardian, may be subject to routine tests in school, including auditory, visual and dental inspection, and, upon referral by the principal, to a complete physical examination and/or other professional help. A tuberculosis patch test and/or X‐rays, immunization for prevention of diphtheria and smallpox vaccination may be given only with the explicit written permission of the parents.
Immunizations
All directives regarding immunization, issued annually by the State of California, shall be implemented. No student may be unconditionally admitted to school unless he or she has been immunized against poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and varicella for first admission to schools in California. In addition, Hepatitis B immunization is required for students entering preschool and kindergarten. All students entering grade seven are required to present documentation showing the dates when three doses of Hepatitis B and two doses of a measles containing vaccine have been received. All students entering a California school for the first time must have a Mantoux tuberculosis test. Immunization is not required for admission if a parent or guardian present a letter stating that such immunization is contrary to his or her beliefs, or presents a written statement from a physician to the effect that immunization is not considered safe or reasonably beneficial to the individual student. Health Records Every school must comply with all Health Department requirements. Every school has a Health Record Card for each student enrolled in the school. Upon transfer to another school, the student health records are forwarded with the student’s transcript to the receiving school. Medical Appointments Early dismissal for medical or dental appointments shall be granted when the parents/guardians make a request. Parents/guardians are urged to keep such requests to a minimum and encouraged to make arrangements’ for care during vacation periods or after school hours.
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Medications
The school will not furnish medication. All medications administered at school, shall be provided by the parent.
A release stating the nature of the medication, signed and dated by the doctor and also signed by the parent, must be provided. See Medication Authorization and Permission Form.
Medications administered at school must be in the original container and labeled. The day’s dosage must be sealed, labeled and have the student’s name attached. It shall be in an appropriate container and kept in the school office.
The student shall come to the office for medication.
Because of the risk of students sharing medications, students may not carry medication of any kind to be self‐administered at school. In the event a student is seriously at risk without an epi‐pen or inhaler on his or her person, consideration will be given for a variance.
Students may not be given medicine prescribed for other family members.
The medication regulations apply to both prescription and non‐prescription medications.
Students, who are diabetic, are allowed to test their blood sugar at school in the health room or office and self‐administer medication as necessary. The parent or guardian of a diabetic child must sign the Diabetic Consent Form and other appropriate medication permission forms and return them to the school. All medication must be kept in the school/nurse’s office and appropriately labeled as described above. School employees may not administer injections to diabetic children except in emergencies.
No exceptions will be made to the procedure for medication. If parents/guardians do not provide the completed medication form with the prescribed medication, they will have to come to the school and personally administer the medication. Communicable Diseases The school cooperates with the local health officer in measures necessary for the prevention and control of communicable diseases in school age children – Education Code, Section 49403(a). A student who has been absent from school because of a reported communicable disease must have a permit issued by the Public Health Department, a physician, or a nurse before he or she is readmitted to school. Allergies Some students may have severe, life threatening allergies, such as a peanut allergy. While the school will make reasonable efforts to prevent or minimize an allergic student’s contact with allergies, the school does not promise an allergy‐free environment.
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Student Sexual Conduct and Pregnancy A primary purpose of Catholic education, whether in a school or in religious education or other parish
programs, is to guide young person in the growth and formation of Christian values and moral conduct,
including Catholic teachings on the sanctity of all human family life and a recognition that the sanctity
of family life is enhanced by a loving, permanent and mature commitment.
While psycho‐sexual development is an important aspect of the transition to Catholic adulthood,
Catholic moral teachings frame this process through age appropriate expressions of affection,
friendship and love. Parents are expected to love and respect each other and their children and are to
be the principal role models, examples and educators for their children of these teachings. Sexual
activity that is unwelcome, that threatens an individual or involves any misconduct by a youth or an
adult toward another person not only violates these moral teachings, but also may be unlawful under
state law. Misconduct, whether it occurs in the school, church, home or elsewhere, may be subject to
mandatory reporting laws and can subject youth and adults to criminal sanctions. In certain
circumstances, sexual conduct, even if it is apparently consensual must be reported and can have
criminal implications if one of the participants is not yet.
However, should a pregnancy occur, the entire school or parish community should offer Christian
support to the mother and father to assure appropriate pre‐natal medical and counseling so that the
pregnancy can be brought to term and the infant will have an opportunity to grow and be nurtured as
a child of God. In such circumstances, the principal, pastor, youth minister and other appropriate staff
will meet with the pregnant couple and their parents to plan for the pregnancy, including alternatives
to school and religious education arrangements that are appropriate for the medical, health and safety
of the child in the womb, the pregnant couple and the school or parish community. In schools, the
principal, in consultation with the Department of Catholic Schools and the pastor (for elementary and
parish high schools) shall review all aspects of each case and make a determination, based on the
particular circumstances, of the need for any schooling accommodations or arrangements.
In cases of pregnancy, the mother and father (if known) should be encouraged and assisted in
obtaining professional medical care and professional counseling consistent with Catholic teachings,
including teachings on the immorality of abortion, relevant to the pregnancy and the future of both
parents and the unborn child. The Department of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese can assist in the
process and serve as a resource for services and referrals.
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C. ACADEMICS and CO‐CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Curriculum Offerings
The curriculum at archdiocesan Catholic schools integrates the mission of Christ to teach the gospel message to all with the commitment of the Archbishop and the Archdiocese to provide strong academic experiences for students in a school community that reflects both the teaching mission of the Church and the need to prepare youth for life that relies on academic skills and requires sound preparation.
The school curriculum consists of all learning experiences, planned and organized under the leadership of the school principal to implement the educational goals of the school in a manner that reflects a commitment to Catholic teachings, is consistent with the philosophy of the school, the educational policies of the Archdiocese, and the requirements of the Education Code of the State of California. The commitment to on‐going academic excellence, personal growth, leadership and service as components of Catholic identity extends to all aspects of the academic program.
The pastor and principal at the parish elementary school are responsible for providing the curriculum adopted by the Department of Catholic Schools. The basic curriculum prescribed for all elementary schools, beginning and continuing through eighth grade, includes the following areas:
Art
Computer Literacy
Handwriting
Health and Safety
History
Language: Grammar and Writing
Math
Music
Physical Education
Reading
Religion
Science
Social Studies
Spelling
Vocabulary
Religion Program and Expectations
St. Madeleine accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, is a Catholic school where teachers, parents and students work together to build a community dedicated to fulfilling God’s will. Each student has been blessed with unique gifts and talents, and as educators alongside parents, it is our mission to help our children recognize and use these gifts and talents to serve God and our world. Our school is proud to offer a strong academic program that is committed to preparing our children for high school, college and ultimately their chosen careers. Most important, St. Madeleine lives out the Gospel message of Jesus Christ in a loving environment so that our children will witness the love of Christ and become Disciples of Christ eventually sharing their ministry with the world.
God is the center of our lives! St. Madeleine is committed to modeling Christian values and attitudes which promote the teachings of the Catholic Church. Our students understand the role of God and the church in their lives and students are guided in recognizing their responsibilities toward building a faith community... Every day begins with school wide prayer as the student body gathers to hear the Word of God led by the faculty. All children attend mass every Friday and the Family mass once a month at 9:00 am which allows families and parishioners to celebrate as a community. Sacrament preparation and opportunities for worship are integrated throughout the school day and year.
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Graduation Requirements Students who have successfully completed the prescribed course of study from Transitional
Kindergarten through eighth grade are permitted to graduate. Students who receive a “D” or “F” in
any core subject will be placed on academic probation. Eighth grade students who receive a “D” or
“F” in any core subject meet with the parent(s), principal and teachers as graduation could be in
jeopardy.
Eighth Grade Students who fail to meet the academic course of study will receive an “I” incomplete
on their report card and be required to attend summer school. After completion of required work
during summer school, “I” Incompletes will be changed to reflect the work completed.
It is a requirement that students maintain a passing grade in all core academic subjects. A certificate of
attendance, rather than an academic diploma will be issued to the student who fails to meet the
academic requirements... Parents of students who are in danger of not graduating will be notified as
soon as it is evident that their child is not meeting requirements. Beginning in the first quarter, parents
will receive Progress Reports and possibility of retention will be noted on the report cards. Meetings
with parents will be scheduled to discuss intervention to include STEP/MAP strategies.
In cases involving grave offenses prior to graduation, the students will be immediately suspended and
not be allowed to participate in any graduation activities or the graduation ceremony itself. The
diploma will be mailed to the student.
Academic Probation Academic Probation lasts for one quarter. Students who have a grade point average below 2.0 or two (2) “D’s” or “F’s”, in any subject on a report card are placed on academic probation. During this time, students may not…
Participate in any extracurricular activity – Art Lab, Choir or Dance
Participate in any field trip A parent/student/teacher conference will be scheduled to discuss the conditions of the probation and develop a plan for future success. (STEP/MAP) Any student who is on academic and/or behavioral probation for more than two (2) quarters may be asked to withdraw from St. Madeleine.
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Retention A student who does not maintain a passing grade in core subjects, Language, Math, Reading, Religion, Science, Social Studies, Spelling and Vocabulary, during the school year may be retained in the current grade for the following year. The decision to retain a student will be based upon the overall welfare of the pupil, by weighing academic, emotional and social factors. The teacher is responsible for consistent evaluation and effective remediation of learning difficulties. Remedial help is provided within the classroom and school setting, either by individualized instruction, tutoring or lesson modification. In addition, parents may seek outside help such as professional tutoring. As soon as retention is seen as a possibility, the teacher should make the principal and parents aware of any student having significant learning difficulties by the end of the first quarter. During the second quarter, parents will be informed of a students’ progress or possibility of retention. A conference will be held at the beginning of the second quarter to develop a remedial plan to help the student. The teacher, parents and principal will maintain an open and cooperative channel for communication so as to monitor the student’s progress or lack thereof. Retention is more successful in primary grades than in later grades. Although the opinions of the teacher and parents are significant factors and are taken into consideration, the final decision to retain a student is the responsibility of a student. Transfer Some students may be given a recommendation to transfer for either academic or behavior concerns. After meeting with the teacher, parent(s) and principal, a determination will be made if other schools or agencies have facilities to assist the student. The principal, in consultation with the pastor, make the final decision.
Testing and Assessment: Assessment of Catholic Religious Education (ACRE)
Assessment of Catholic Religious Education (ACRE) is given to the fifth and eighth grade students in the spring of each year. The purpose of this test is to evaluate students’ values, attitudes and knowledge of Catholic doctrine. STAR Testing:
STAR standardized test will be administered four (4) times a year in grades TK4, Kindergarten through eighth. This test is given to assess academic standing, identify strengths and weaknesses, determine academic growth and guide curriculum planning. The results are discussed with parents at Parent/Teacher conferences in November and throughout the year.
Testing and Assessment: Individual Education Plan (IEP)
Students who are having academic difficulties we be referred to their local public school for extensive testing to identify learning disabilities and possible psychological concerns. Parents must request such evaluation in writing to their local public school and St. Madeleine will provide requested documentation from the students’ teacher and administration. The students’ teacher will also attend the evaluation. Interpretation of the results will be provided by the public school team with recommendations for modifications shared with St. Madeleine and implemented as feasible.
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Student Team Educational Plan (STEP/MAP)
Through the mission of the Archdiocese, schools strive to serve children with varied learning needs. All education in Archdiocesan schools follow “Directions for the Inclusion Process in Catholic Schools: Support Team Education Plan Process (STEP) and Minor Adjustment Plan Process (MAP).” Parents or guardians who feel that their student may need a minor adjustment to enable him or her to participate in the general education curriculum of the school should consult the student’s teacher and principal to determine how best to meet the student’s needs.
Homework
Homework is given Monday through Thursday and sometimes on the Weekend to reinforce daily lesson objectives and help master grade level standards. Long term absences may entail that a student dedicate weekend time to achieve academic success.
When students are absent, they receive one (1) day for each day absent to complete homework. Absent work not completed will result in student earning a “0” for each missed assignment.
All students in grades, Kindergarten – 5th grade will maintain a Homework Agenda at the beginning of the year. All homework is written in this agenda and must be in class every day along with the the Homework Folder. Homework is never written on a loose piece of paper. Teachers will also use this agenda to communicate with parents.
A daily routine must be established with your child. Select a specific location where your child may leave their Agenda/folder for your review. Please be attentive to daily homework and future tests and long‐term projects. It is the students’ responsibility to accurately write down daily assignments. Teachers do not write down assignments. Students are expected to receive daily homework in Language, Math, Reading, Religion and Writing. Teachers allow sufficient time for work to be written down. Please discuss with your child immediately when there are consistent blanks in this Agenda.
Suggested Homework Time Allotments Actual Time Allotments
Per the Archdiocese: Per St. Madeleine: PK3 30 Minutes 30 Minutes TK4 30 Minutes 30 Minutes Kindergarten: 30 Minutes 45 Minutes – 1 Hour 1st and 2nd Grade: 45 Minutes 1 – 2 Hours 3rd and 4th Grade: 1 Hour 2‐3 Hours 5th Grade: 1 Hours and 30 Minutes 3 – 3‐1/2 Hours These times represent an average; some nights the assignments may take more time as some students take longer to complete work. Not all assignments are written. Often reading, studying or reviewing notes is necessary in preparation for assessments that will result in additional time being dedicated. St. Madeleine is committed to providing a quality Catholic education that will best prepare students for acceptance into Catholic high school and college. Archdiocesan and Common Core Standards and College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards are the driving force behind curriculum. Therefore, lesson plans are developed which will allow for all students to master standards. Homework will reflect this commitment to “challenge” our students and therefore, may exceed the suggested times previously mentioned.
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Make up Work: Students who are absent, in grades 3rd ‐5th have the responsibility to ask the teacher
about work that is missed. Students who are absent are asked to meet with the teacher before, during
or after school to gather missed work. Students will have one (1) day for each day absent to complete
this work. Long ‐term absences or projects will require weekend commitment. Parents for students in
grades Transitional Kindergarten‐2nd may make an appointment with the teacher for missed work.
Parents may not call the office and request missed work. Missed work will not be left in the office.
Homework will not be given to students who leave for vacation during the time school is in session.
Proper Heading on all work includes (first and last name, date, subject, page/problems “I Am Going
to College), JMJ (Jesus, Mary, Joseph), cursive in 3rd – 5th grade, black or blue pen in 3rd – 5th grade,
clean, neat and organized, math in pencil with all computation/steps/work shown and clear evidence
that effort, thought and time was dedicated to each assignment.
Parents can help with homework and overall academic success by:
Education is your child’s vocation
Instilling in your child/children the value of education; no days off
Enforcing “quality” of work
Asking your child/children to “slow down” and not rush to complete work
Asking your child/children to “redo” work that is poorly completed
Reviewing all work sent home for parent signature with your child
Asking your child/children about their grades
Asking your child/children about their study habits
Asking your child/children about long term projects and tests
Students should not be calling friends for homework; please let the teacher know.
Proving a desk/table in a quiet place
Establishing a homework routine: time and place
Turning off the television, radio and video games
Cell phone usage, talking or texting should never be part of homework.
Establishing and enforcing consequences when commitment to education is not evident
Students are accountable and responsible for their choices.
Please work with the teachers; communicate your concerns and come up with solutions that are implemented at home to support the teacher and help your child succeed. *Students who miss any Homework will receive a “0” and an additional Service Hour will be added to the parent total.
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Research Projects and Rights of Parents Parents must be informed if research projects involving their children are to be conducted at the
school and must be provided with sufficient information about the research to enable them to give
informed consent. Parents have the right to withhold permission allowing their children to
participate in research studies. Parents have the right to withdraw their children at any time from
a research project without reprisal.
Parents have the right to request to preview the materials to be used in a research study involving
their children. Requests to review the Research Materials should be made with appropriate
written advance notification to the school and to the researcher.
Except in a limited range of research areas where an Institutional Review Board determines that a
waiver of assent is appropriate, student assent to participation in a research project must be
obtained. If a student reaches the age of consent applicable to the subject matter of the research
project, the student must be given the opportunity to provide informed consent. Students have
the right to withhold their assent and have a right to withdraw without penalty. Students who are
not participants in research studies many not be singled out in any way or penalized.
Service Hours
As part of our commitment to model Christ like conduct, St. Madeleine is faithful to the message
taught and modeled by Jesus that we are all called to serve. Service for the 2019‐2020 school year will
consist of two four areas:
Year‐long service projects as established by the administration and faculty
Feeding the Homeless and Hungry with Support of the St. Vincent de Paul Society
Service to those in our school community who are struggling
Hours Per Quarter: 10 Per Students – PK3 – 5th Grade
Service at the Family Mass
As a Catholic school, we are called first and foremost to educate in the faith. As such, we expect that
our students celebrate liturgy with their parish community. The Family Mass is hosted once (1x) a
month by the children of St. Madeleine. It is mandatory for all student and their parents to attend
the Sunday, Family Mass in their full‐dress uniform. Attendance will be taken, and credit will be
earned toward the Religion grade. Students and parents will gather in the church sitting in the
designated pews together. Teachers will take attendance before and after the mass
“More than any other program of education sponsored by the church, the Catholic has the opportunity and obligation to be unique, contemporary, and oriented to Christian service…oriented to Christian services because it helps students acquire skills, virtues and habits of heart required for effective service to others.” (To Teach as Jesus Did, United States Congress of Catholic Bishops, 1972, #106)
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Grading
The student report card is the official form to report pupil’s academic progress, study skills and
behavior to parents. The report card is issued to all students within the week following the end of each
quarter as indicated on the school calendar. The factors to be considered in measuring student
progress are homework, quizzes, tests, group projects, individual projects, participation, effort and
quality of work. All work is to exemplify outstanding effort, quality and mastery of standards. Grades
will be lowered for work that is poorly done. It is the responsibility of the student to determine if their
work is the “best they can do” or if there is room for improvement.
A major factor in grades is Tardiness. The school day begins at 8:00 a.m. with Morning Prayer,
Monday through Thursday. Students are expected to actively participate with responses and actively
listen to scripture readings. Upon returning to class, formative assessments are immediately
administered to assess listening skills. The grade on this assessment is averaged into the Religion
grade. Students, who are late, will earn a “0” on each assessment.
On Friday, mass begins at 8:15 a.m. Students who are late will also earn a “0” for Religion on Friday.
We are cognizant of and sensitive to traffic factors that are out of one’s control. However, “getting up
late,” “running late’” and other excuses which have become patterns are not valid. Parents must come
into the office and fill out a tardy slip regardless of the reason.
Academic Grading Scale and Grade Points
A or Outstanding 93% ‐ 100% 4.0
B+ or Good 90% ‐ 92% 3.5
B or Good 87% ‐ 89% 3.0
B‐ or Satisfactory 85% ‐ 86% 2.7
C+ or Satisfactory 80% ‐ 84% 2.5
C or Satisfactory 75% ‐ 79% 2.0
C‐ or Satisfactory 70% ‐ 74% 1.7
D or Needs Improvement 65% ‐ 69% 1.7
F or Needs Improvement 64% and Below
Behavior and Work Habits for Grades Kindergarten – 8th Grade
“O” Outstanding “G” Good
“S” Satisfactory ‘NI” Needs Improvements
+ Strength ‐ Improvement
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Grades A grade of “A” is earned students who perform outstanding on class work, homework, tests, projects and
other assessments. These students are always prepared for class, actively participate and take the initiative in
their studies to exceed minimum requirements. When absent, an “A” student meets with the teacher to
decide on a plan of action to complete missed work. “A” students’ clearly exemplify a faithful commitment
to their education evident through their daily actions.
A grade of “B” is earned by those students who earn an above average grade on class work, homework, tests,
projects and other assessments. The “B’ student is prepared for class, actively participates and takes the
responsibility of making up absent work. A “B” student is committed to his/her education and through daily
effort works toward improving.
A grade of “C” is earned by students who complete the minimal requirements in class work, homework, tests,
projects and other assessments. A “C” student does not strive to achieve beyond the minimal and is satisfied
with mediocre work. Missed homework occurs, test preparation is last minute and quality of work does not
meet high academic standards. The “C” student has the ability and potential to achieve at a high level,
however is not willing to dedicate time and effort.
A grade of “D” is earned by students who consistently and frequency fail to complete class work, homework,
tests, projects and score below 70% in any form of assessment. The “D” student clearly has not made a faith
commitment to their education. Missed homework occurs deadline and test preparation in nonexistent.
Despite interventions and modifications, the “D” student is making choices that do not allow for academic
success. “the “D” student is not prepared for class and thus behavior may become a disruptive factor in daily
instruction.
A grade of “F” is earned by students who absolutely refuse to complete homework, class work, projects or
prepare for tests and other forms of assessments. Class participation and effort is nonexistent. Despite
interventions and modifications to help the student succeed, the student chooses not to participate in their
education.
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Awards and Honors Each quarter students are acknowledged for their academic achievement and effort. On the Friday following the distribution of report cards, the Honors Mass will be celebrated at which time students will receive their Honor Roll certificates after Communion or the final blessing. Academic Honors
In our committed effort to help our student succeed, teachers will modify lesson plans for those students who
are performing below grade level. Therefore, students who are receiving these services may not earn academic honors, as they are performing below grade level even if they earn a “C‐“ or above in their core subjects. Academic Honors is awarded to those students mastering grade level standards or above. TK3
Grading: “O” Outstanding, “G” Good, “S” Satisfactory, “NI” Need Improvement
Academic Honors: “O” Outstanding and/or “G” Good in Core Academic Subjects
Behavior: “O” Outstanding and/or “G” Good 4.0 Club – Principals’ Award TK3 – 8th Grade
1st Honors – PK3 – 5th Grade 3.5 Grade Point Average (GPA) or Above in core academic subjects: Religion, Language, Reading, Math,
Spelling, Science, Social Studies
B or Above in non‐core academic subjects: Art, Music, Physical Education
Behavior: Outstanding “O” or Good “G”
Work Habits: Outstanding “O” or Good “G”
2nd Honors – PK3 – 5th Grade 3.0 ‐3.49 Grade Point Average (GPA) in core academic subjects: Religion, Language, Reading, Math,
Spelling, Science, Social Studies
B or Above in non core academic subjects: Art, Music, Physical Education
Behavior: Outstanding “O” or Good “G”
Work Habits: Outstanding “O” or Good “G”
Behavior To earn Honors, students in TK3 ‐ 5th Grade must Earn an “O” Outstanding or “G” Good
in Behavior – No Exceptions.
Academic Awards (End of Year) At the end of the school year, an evening award ceremony will be held to honor students in TK3, TK4, first through seventh grade who have achieved academic excellence, Christ like conduct and perfect attendance. Kindergarten and 8th Grade students will receive awards at their graduation ceremonies.
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Field Trips
The field trip policies listed below apply to class trips, school trips. All field trips must comply with the following requirements:
Prior permission of the principal and included in the lesson plan.
Preparation, follow up and specific educational goals/objectives for students.
- Pre and Post Curriculum Lessons/Assessments
- Students are required to attend the field trip
- Lesson and Assessments will be included in subject grade
Signed and dated Student and Youth Activity Permission Forms and Emergency Medical Treatment
Forms.
Authorizations from parents on the DUE DATED NOTED on the PERMISSION SLIP. NO late permission
slips will be accepted.
All fees paid on the DUE DATED NOTED on the PERMISSION SLIP.
All permission and authorization forms must be in the possession of the supervising adult during the
trip.
All Archdiocesan policies on safe environment must be followed including background checks.
Transportation may be by personal car, school or chartered bus, van, boat or airplane.
School employees, including teachers and coaches, shall not drive students to or from athletic and co‐
curricular trips or events.
Siblings may not be taken on class field trips; this is not a family outing
Parent chaperones are critical for the success of a field trip and to ensure the safety of all children.
Parents will be selected by the principal and teacher; Please do not call the office.
Parents must have met the Safeguard the Children requirements: Fingerprints and VIRTUS Protecting
God’s Children workshop and presented to the principal the completed documentation.
Parents will be selected based on their willingness to assist the teacher and follow directions.
Parents are required to supervise and assist the teacher and not use the field trip as a social event to
mingle with other parents.
Parents who are delinquent on tuition, fundraising or service hours may not attend the field trip.
Parents may not drive their children to the destination, as part of the field trip experience is the social
interaction with classmates and other adults on a bus.
Parents who are selected as chaperones do not supervise their own children; the teacher will assign
children to specific groups and the adult in charge of their safety.
Parents may not use their cell phones on a field trip; parents will not earn service hours if this is
reported to the principal or any behavior/action that was not in support of teacher/school direction.
Parent/guardians/volunteers driving students in their own car must be at least 25 years of age, have a clean driving record for the past three year, a valid Class C driver’s license and valid/current California automobile insurance with limits of at least $100,000/$300,000. Each vehicle must have individual seat belts for each student. A copy of the parent/guardian’s drivers license and insurance declaration page must be kept on the at the school office.
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Field trips are privileges and students can be denied participation if they fail to meet behavioral or academic requirements.
Academic Requirements for the Week of the field trip:
May not earn an “S” Satisfactory or “NI” Needs Improvement on any class work, homework,
assessment or project (TK3, TK4, Kindergarten – 2nd Grade)
May not earn an “F” or “D” on any class work, homework, assessments or project. (3rd – 5th Grade)
May not have three (3) missed homework slips
Conduct Requirements for the Week of the field trip:
May not earn an “S” Satisfactory or “NI” Needs Improvement (TK3, TK4, Kindergarten – 2nd Grade)
May not earn an “F” or “D” (3rd – 5th Grade)
May not have any demerits for any conduct offense
May not have any conduct referral for the quarter
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Co Curricular Activities
Altar Serving
The ministry of Altar Serving is open to all students who have received the sacrament of First Communion.
Training is held in the fall and students are asked to serve at both school and parish liturgies.
Children’s Liturgy
The mission of St. Madeleine’s Children’s Liturgy is to provide an opportunity for our children to grow in their
faith as “Active Catholics” and nurtured by a community of faculty, family and friends, grow into the church
leaders of tomorrow who will serve as disciples for the world community.
As per the school calendar, the Family Mass will be celebrated the First Sunday of the month at the 9:00 a.m.
parish mass. Children will be responsible for every part of the mass including lectors, cantors, ushers,
etc…Students are required to wear their full‐dress uniform as we also celebrate Catholic education.
As a Catholic school, we celebrate our faith with the school and parish community once a month. All students
and their parents are required to attend the Sunday, Family Mass. Students will meet in the Cafeteria at
8:30am and sit together as a school family. Teachers will be taking attendance when students arrive and at
the end of the mass. Students who do not attend will earn a “0” in their Religion grade for this specific
“assignment.”
Choir The children’s choir is a ministry that brings the beauty of music to our liturgical celebrations. Students who make the commitment to the choir are required to attend the weekly practices, the Friday school mass and the First Sunday of the Month Parish Mass. Attendance will be taken and any student who misses practice many not stand with the choir at mass. Special practices will also be held in preparation for special events. Students are required to attend in order to participate in the special event. If practice(s) have been missed, the student may not sing with the choir on the date of the event. Any behavior that interferes with practice will result in the student being immediately removed from choir.
Homework Haven
Homework Haven is an afterschool ministry to support our students with academic growth. Homework Haven
is open to students who have been identified by the teachers’ as being “At Risk” on the STAR Testing and
other classroom assessments. Homework Haven is by invitation only and will be held Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday and Thursday from 3:15pm – 4:30p
“Although every ministry in the parish is an evangelizing ministry, Catholic schools have a unique opportunity and a grave responsibility to evangelize. One of the reasons for the Church’s influence on the Christian formation of Americans is her vast presence in the field of education…the large number of Catholic schools makes possible a wide – ranging evangelizing effort, as long as there is a clear will to impart a truly Christian education. (Ecclesia in America, Pope John Paul II, #18)
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After School Care
St. Madeleine School will provide after school care for the 2019‐2020 school years. Please stop by the office for a registration packet.
All students who are not registered for the After‐School program and are not picked up no later than 15 minutes after dismissal, will be signed into the program and parents billed the daily $10 use fee.
Birthday Celebrations
The birth of a child is a very special day and should be celebrated. The following procedures must be followed in celebration of your child’s birthday at school:
Contact your child’s teacher at least one week before the planned celebration. No last minute dropping off of food or calls to the office the day of the celebration.
Celebrations at recess may include cupcakes and a drink.
Celebrations at lunch may include pizza ONLY if the teacher was notified one (1) week prior.
Pizza, chips, juice, and cupcakes are the only food items allowed.
All paper products are supplied by the parents
Parent(s) must stay to serve and clean up
Party invitations for weekend celebrations may be brought to school with the following procedures adhered to:
1. Invitations are given to the teacher at the beginning of the day. 2. The teacher will distribute the invitations at the end of the day. 3. Every student in the class MUST receive an invitation. 4. If there is not an invitation for every student, the teacher will return all the invitations to the parents.
Invitations that are being passed out at recess or lunch by the student will be confiscated. Balloons, flowers or other gift items may not be delivered to the school.
Hot Lunch Program
St. Madeleine participates in the Archdiocesan School Food Program, Revolution Food. Breakfast and lunch are available to students each day. The cost of breakfast and lunch will be based on family income reported on the application completed at the beginning of the year.
1. A monthly calendar stating the menu items for the month will be distributed. 2. Parents/guardians are asked to select the food items for the month and mark the calendar. The
calendar is sent to the child’s teacher. 3. Payment for the entire month is due the first by the 1st of the Month. 4. A receipt will be issued and sent home. 5. No money will be accepted daily 6. Hot lunch will not be served to students whose monthly debt has not been paid. 7. Students who bring lunch from home will not be allowed to select a hot lunch
*It is the responsibility of the parent to provide lunch for their child. Special Hot Lunches
Through out the year, St. Madeleine parents will be cooking “Special” home cooked lunches or ordering pizza. Flyers for these lunches go out in the Family Envelope and must be returned by Monday, the week of the hot lunch. Orders for special Hot Lunches will not be accepted any day but Monday. No exceptions!
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Recess Snacks Students may bring out one (1) snack item for recess in addition to a drink. Students may not select the hot lunch breakfast if they already have a snack or lunch if they have a lunch from home.
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Acceptable Use and Responsibility Policy for Electronic Communications [“Archdiocesan AUP”]
All information used in the course of activities for or on behalf of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles or an archdiocesan school, parish, the seminary, a cemetery, or other archdiocesan department or operating unit (“Location”) is an asset of the Archdiocese and/or the Location, as appropriate. Electronic information and communications require particular safeguards and impose unique responsibilities on all users. The Archdiocese maintains a system of information security to protect our proprietary data. Integral parts of this system are the policies, standards and procedures designed for users. All users must adhere to these policies, standards and procedures for the complete system to remain viable.
These policies, standards and procedures apply to all users of technology, whether adult, child or youth, whether they are paid or volunteer staff, clergy or members of religious orders, in the Archdiocese or in any location.
These policies, standards and procedures include, but are not limited to, maintaining data confidentiality, maintaining the confidentiality of data security controls and passwords, and immediately reporting any suspected or actual security violations. The Archdiocese prohibits the use or alteration of archdiocesan data and/or information technology without proper authorization. All users have an obligation to protect the confidentiality and nondisclosure of proprietary, confidential and privileged data, as well as personally identifiable information.
Definitions Electronic communication systems include, but are not limited to, electronic mail, telecommunications systems including telephone, voice mail, and video, facsimile transmissions, stand‐alone or networked computers, intranets, the Internet, and any other communications systems that may be created in the future. Electronic communication devices include, but are not limited to, regular and mobile telephones (cell phones, smart phones, walkie‐talkies), facsimile machines, computers, laptops, electronic notebooks, audio and video equipment, flash drives, memory sticks, iPods, media players, Blackberries, and other wireless equipment that may be created in the future. Electronic communication materials include, but are not limited to, DVDs, CDs, laser discs, audio and video‐tape, audio and visual recordings, films, microfiche, audio and visual broadcasts, computer operating systems, software programs, electronically stored data and text files, computer applications, emails, text messages, instant messages, and all other downloaded, retrieved, opened, saved, forwarded or otherwise accessed or stored content.
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Definitions (Continued) Electronic Communications Systems, Devices and Materials and Users Covered
a. All electronic communications systems, devices and materials in the schools, parishes, the seminary, cemeteries, archdiocesan departments or offices, or other archdiocesan operating units (the “Premises”).
b. All electronic communications devices and materials taken from the Premises for use at home or on the road.
c. All personal devices and materials brought from home and used on the Premises during regular
business hours. d. All personal devices and materials, regardless of where they are situated, that are used in such a
manner that the Archdiocese and/or the Location may be implicated in their use. e. All users of electronic communications systems, devices and materials, including, but not limited to,
volunteers, clergy and religious, students, employees, staff or contractors associated with the Archdiocese and/or the Locations.
Ownership and Control of Communication All systems, devices, and materials located on the archdiocesan premises, and all work performed on them, are property of Location and/or the Archdiocese. These systems, devices and materials are to be used primarily to conduct official Location and/or Archdiocese business, not personal business. With permission from the person in charge of the parish (e.g., pastor, priest administrator or parish life director), principal or other person in charge of the Location, individuals may use systems, devices and materials, including access to the Internet, for personal business and web exploration outside regular business hours or during breaks. All users are expected to conform to appropriate content management and web surfing guidelines, whether during or outside regular business hours. The Archdiocese and the Locations, as applicable, reserve the right to monitor, access, retrieve, read and disclose all content created, sent, received, or stored on Archdiocese and/or Location systems, devices and materials (including connections made and sites visited) to law enforcement officials or others, without prior notice. Guidelines for Email Correspondence and Other Electronic Communications
a. All users of Archdiocese and Location communications systems and devices should use care in creating
email, text, video, still images, instant or voice mail messages or in any postings on any social
networking site. Eve when a message has been deleted, it may still exist on a backup system, be
restored, downloaded, recorded, printed out, or may have been forwarded to someone else without
its creator’s knowledge. The contents of email and text messages are the same as other written
documentation and cannot be considered private or confidential.
b. Email and other electronic communications are not necessarily secure.
c. As with paper records, proper care should be taken in creating and retaining electronic records for
future use, reference and disclosure, as applicable.
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Guidelines for Email Correspondence and Other Electronic Communications (Continued)
d. Postings to “All Employees,” “All Parents,” “All Seminarians,” “All Parishioners” and the like on
intranets or the Internet must be approved by the person in charge of the parish (pastor, priest,
administrator or parish life director), principal or other person in charge of the Location before they
are sent out.
e. Use of personal electronic communications devices and materials during regular business hours should be kept to a minimum and limited mainly to emergencies.
f. Archdiocese and Location systems, devices and materials are not private and security cannot be guaranteed. Passwords and user IDs are intended to enhance system security; not to provide users with personal privacy. User account passwords for systems not controlled by a centralized user directory or authentication system must be on record with the person in charge of the parish (pastor, priest administrator or parish life director) principal or other person in charge of the Location.
g. User IDs and passwords should not be disclosed to unauthorized parties or shared with other
employees, students or volunteers. User accounts are intended to be used only by the assigned party.
h. All information systems that create, store, transmit or otherwise publish data or information must
have authentication and authorization systems in place to prevent unauthorized use, access, and
modification of data and applications. Systems that transmit or publish approved information that is
intended for the general public may allow unauthenticated (anonymous) access as long as such
systems do not allow unauthorized posting and modification of the published information.
i. Any device accessed or used by minors on the Premises must include updates and functioning filters to
preclude access to prohibited content. All obscene materials, sexually explicit materials including
pornography, and materials that are otherwise harmful to minors or in violation of this electronic
communications policy are prohibited and must be blocked. Before allowing minors to access the
Internet, a responsible adult must ensure that appropriate content filters are “ON” and functioning.
j. Content filters for minors may NOT be disabled or turned “OFF” without obtaining prior permission
from the archdiocesan Applied Technology Department or the person with equivalent authority at the
location.
k. All files downloaded from the Internet, all data received from outside sources, and all content
downloaded from portable memory devices must be scanned with updates or current virus detection
software. Immediately report any viruses, tampering or other system breaches to the person in charge
of the location.
l. Critical information should be copied onto backup storage periodically. Backed up information should
be stored in a safe place and be available for recovery I case of a loss of the original information.
Depending on the complexity of a Location’s information systems, a detailed disaster recovery plan
may need to be developed.
m. Computer networks must be protected from unauthorized use. Both local physical access and remote
access must be controlled.
n. Information system hardware should be secured against unauthorized physical access.
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Prohibited Practices Users of Archdiocese and Location electronic communication systems, devices or materials and users of personal devices and materials on the Premises under circumstances when the Archdiocese and/or the Location may become implicated in the use may not:
a. Violate any federal, state or local laws or regulations.
b. Violate any rules of conduct, codes of ethics, safe environment or any educational policies, including
but not limited to those that apply to communications or the use of information.
c. Post or cause to be distributed any personally identifying information about the user or others without
permission to review by a responsible adult person, unless required by the user’s job duties or assigned
responsibilities. Personal identifying information includes, but is not limited to, names or screen
names; telephone number; work, home or school addresses; email addresses and web addresses
(URLs) of social networking sites or blogs.
d. Post or distribute any communications, video, music or pictures which a reasonable person, according
to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, would consider to be defamatory, offensive, harassing,
disruptive, derogatory or bullying. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual comments or images,
racial or ethnic slurs, or other comments or images that would offend someone on the basis of race,
creed, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, mental or physical disability, or
veteran status.
e. Engage in improper fraternizing or socializing between adults and minors.
f. Engage in pirating or unauthorized copying, acquisition or distribution of copyrighted materials, music,
video or film; arrange for the purchase or sale of any drugs, alcohol, or regulated substances and
goods; or participate in internet gambling.
g. Post or send chain letters on engage in “spamming” (sending annoying, unnecessary or unsolicited
commercial messages).
h. Record any telephone, video, or other conversation or communication without the express permission
of the other participants to the conversation or communication, except where allowed by law.
i. Use electronic communication devices for designing, developing, distributing or storing any works of
programming or software unless required by the duties of the job or assignment.
j. Upload, download, view or otherwise receive or transmit copyrighted, trademarked, patented,
indecent or pornographic material, trade secrets, or other confidential, private, or proprietary
information of other materials to which the user does not have access rights. Regarding copyrighted
materials, certain exceptions are given for educational and liturgical purposes. See Archdiocese of Los
Angeles Copyright and Video Screening Policy.
k. Damage, alter, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computer or other systems; e.g. use others’
passwords, trespass on others’ folders, work or files or alter or forward email messages in a manner
that misrepresents the original message or a message chain.
l. Give unauthorized persons access to Archdiocese or Location systems, provide access to confidential
information, or otherwise jeopardize the security of the electronic communication systems (e.g. by
unauthorized use or disclosure of passwords).
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Prohibited Practices (Continued)
m. Transmit confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information unless the transmission falls within the
scope of the user’s job duties or assignment by a responsible adult.
n. Introduce or install any unauthorized software, virus, malware, tracking devices or recording devices onto any system.
o. Bypass (via proxy servers or other means), defeat or otherwise render inoperative any network security systems, firewalls or content filers.
p. Allow any minor to access the Internet on Archdiocese or Location communications devices before a responsible adult has checked to insure that active filtering or prohibited materials is enabled.
q. Use electronic communications devices or systems to transmit any radio frequency signal that is not permitted and/or licensed by the Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) or that would violate FCC rules or polices.
r. Access or manipulate services, networks or hardware without express authority. Electronic Communication Policy
The following guidelines apply to all electronic communication systems which include, but are not limited to electronic mail, voice mail, facsimile machines, stand alone or networked computers, the Intranet, the Internet and the World Wide Web and to electronic communication devices of any kind for example telephones, cell phones, computers, audio and video equipment, iPods, MP3 players and other wireless devices including those students bring with them from home to school.
All school electronic communication devices, all school computers and related electronic communication systems, all information stored in them, and all work performed on them, are governed by St. Madeleine’s policies and are subject to St. Madeleine’s supervision and inspection.
St. Madeleine files created, sent, received or stored on its systems (including connections made and sites visited) to law enforcement officials or others, without prior notice.
During school hours, while on school premises, students may not use any electronic communication devices that they bring from home without direct approval of the principal and under direct supervision of a faculty/staff member.
Students using school computers and/or related at‐home electronic communications systems and/or communication devices may not:
Violate any school conduct or educational rules.
Engage in conduct that is not in accord with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
Post personal contact information about self or others which may include name, screen name, address, telephone, school address, parent(s) name, work address, etc…
Agree to meet with someone they may have met online without parents’ approval and the presence of a parent.
Use obscene, defamatory, disruptive or threatening language.
Harass, insult or attack others.
Send comments or images that would offend a reasonable person or organization on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, political beliefs or disability.
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Electronic Communication Policy (Continued)
Upload, download, view or otherwise transmit copy righted, private or proprietary information. Regarding copy righted materials, certain exceptions are made for educational purposes and if there is any doubt, students may consult with the teacher.
Engage in any other illegal act, such as the pirating or unauthorized distribution (such as “pod casting”) of copyrighted materials, music or film, or arranging for the purchase or sale of any drugs, alcohol, or regulated substances and goods.
Access material that is profane or obscene (pornography), that advocated illegal acts, violence or illegal, improper discrimination towards others.
Damage, alter, disrupt or gain unauthorized access to computers or other systems, e.g., use others’ passwords, trespass on the other’s folders, work or files.
Guidelines for Use of Computer or Personal Electronic Communication Devices We expect our parents to be equal stakeholders in the implementation of our computer and technology system policies by monitoring their child’s Internet access and electronic use outside of school in a manner supportive of St. Madeleine’s policies. Inappropriate electronic communication among students outside of school or in school using personal electronic devices, may subject the student to disciplinary action. Students may not:
Threaten the safety or reputation of St. Madeleine, its faculty, staff or students.
Post personal contact information about other school personnel, teachers or students. This information may include name, screen name, address, telephone, cell phone, e‐mail address, etc…
Use obscene, defamatory, disruptive language toward or about any school personnel, teachers, students or parents.
Harass, insult, defame, bully, attack or invade the privacy or any school personnel, teachers, students or parents.
Send comments, text or images to school personnel, teachers, students or parents that would be considered offensive on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, political beliefs or disability.
Damage, alter, disrupt or gain unauthorized access to St. Madeleine’s computers or school system, e.g., use others’ passwords, trespass on folders or work files.
Consequences of Violations of Electronic Communications Policy
Violations of this policy, including breaches of confidentiality or security, may result in suspension of electronic communication privileges, confiscation of any electronic communication device or materials, and disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, removal from parish or school activities, expulsion from school, canonical review, referral to law enforcement and other appropriate disciplinary action.
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Parent Conduct If a student is the target or recipient of any of the above mentioned, parent(s) and student are expected to follow the appropriate chain of communication:
Contact the students’ teacher immediately. If the issue is not resolved, then contact the principal who
will then consult with the Pastor and the Archdiocese.
Law enforcement will be notified immediately or situations that are “grave” or threaten the safety of
school personnel or students.
Posting inappropriate comments about St. Madeleine, its personnel, students or other parents, on the
web via e‐mail or social network sites does not constitute following the appropriate chain of
communication.
St. Madeleine reserves the right to ask parents to withdraw their children in such cases where
parents fail to abide by these policies.
Tutoring
If a student requires private tutoring or parents wish to have a student tutored in school subjects, the parents are responsible for engaging the tutor and paying all tutoring costs. St. Madeleine may assist the parents in identifying tutoring resources. Teachers may not be paid for tutoring students assigned to their classes. With prior permission from the principal, teachers may tutor other students who attend the school and be paid for the tutoring by parents. St. Madeleine may arrange with independent contractors or entities, who are not teachers or staff at the school to provide tutoring on a fee basis. Independent entities must have appropriate licenses, agreements for use of the premises and insurance. All tutors and entities must comply with the procedures and policies of the Extended Day Care Program and the Archdiocesan Guidelines for Adults Interacting with Minors at parish or parish school activities or events. Counseling Policy The mission and purpose of St. Madeleine is education. St. Madeleine does not assume the responsibilities proper to the family and to society. St. Madeleine may not assume the responsibility for psychological counseling or therapy because we are not qualified or licensed to provide such counseling or therapy. St. Madeleine may engage in the following activities in addition to providing classroom instruction:
Provide advice regarding academic subjects and student progress in school
Give limited guidance to students who present non‐academic personal issues or situations.
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Counseling Policy (Continued) St. Madeleine may provide referrals to marriage and family counselors, child psychologists, licensed academic psychologists, psychiatrists and similar professional for diagnosis and treatment. If the school provides referrals to parents, the list must include at least three names or qualified persons or entities.
St. Madeleine may retain, where necessary, appropriate professionals to provide educational testing
that is needed for assessment of a student’s academic ability, learning patterns, achievement,
motivation, and personality factors directly related to academic learning problems or psychological
counseling services for the school. Prior to entering into such a contractual relationship, the principal
will ensure that the person is credentialed, licensed or otherwise properly qualified. The school may
refer a student for specific or additional testing as appropriate, generally at the parent/guardian’s
expense.
In cases of actual or suspected child abuse or abuse of vulnerable adults, the Archdiocesan Victim’s
Assistance Ministry is available as a resource. The Victim’s Assistance Ministry provided outreach and
guidance to those suffering from abuse: it offers a faith based trauma recovery program and assists in
informing parish, school, archdiocesan and governmental authorities of the allegation of abuse or
neglect. Referral to the Victim’s Assistance ministry is not a substitute for mandated reporting of
suspected abuse. Such a report must be made in accordance with Archdiocesan policy.
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D. Tuition Tuition and Payment St. Madeleine School shall determine annually the cost to educate each student based on budget projections. Tuition rates and fees will be established based on these costs. Fund raising will help meet the cost to educate each child. All parents are expected to participate and complete fund raising and service hours. Parents may apply for the Archdiocesan Tuition Assistance Program in January. The appropriate forms must be completed and the designated form should be submitted by the deadline in March. Tuition rates, fees, fund raising and service ours will be published prior to registration. Collection of tuition will be completed by FACTS Tuition Management. All parents are required to complete the FACTS application and tuition will be automatically withdrawn from a checking or savings account. Only in extreme circumstances will tuition be paid in the office as per private arrangement with the principal. In such cases, tuition is cash, check or money order and is due no later than Friday, the first week of each month beginning in August. A late fee of $25 will be assessed by Monday, the second week of the month. A $50 late fee will be added if the office has to contact a parent a second time.
NO Postdated Checks Will Be Accepted Each family is required to review the contract and sign the tuition agreement annually and to honor the terms and conditions. Fees and other monetary obligations are to be paid as per deadlines. Late fees will be incurred for late payment of any financial obligation. Fees included, but are not limited to registration, sports, graduation, tardy, detention, and morning and after school care and all fundraising. Any form of tuition assistance, Bishop’s Initiative, Catholic Education Foundation or St. Madeleine Parish/School scholarships, are negotiated on a yearly basis. Each year, the following must be submitted to be considered for any assistance:
Catholic Education Foundation Application
Completed Federal and State Income Tax Returns
AFDC/”Welfare Assistance
Disability
SSI Death Benefits of Spouse or Parent(s)
W‐2 Form
Social Security
Unemployment Benefits
Decisions on tuition assistance will be determined based on need, parish support through envelope, commitment to Catholic education through support of school programs and service to the school.
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TUITION – 2019‐2020
REGISTRATION/REJISTRATCION
After May 2019 ‐ $400 Per Child or $37 Per Month Added to Monthly Tuition
Registration is NON REFUNDABLE – Inscripción No Es Reembolsable
TUITION RATES
Full Tuition: $3,900 (11 Months)
Tuition is Tiered to Support the Financial Reality of Each Family. In Order to Qualify the following requirements must be met:
Catholic Education Foundation Application (CEF)
Federal and State 2018 Income Taxes Filed
Federal or State Assistance Letters: Cal Fresh or Cal Works
*All 5 Hours Must Be Completed or Parent Will be Billed for Missed Hours **Food Donations for Breakfast are Credited Toward Donations NOT Too Take the Place of Hours
RAFFLES/SORTEOS Raffles: 100 Tickets for $1/100Boletos de la Rifa $1 Cada Uno
The Four Raffles are Intended to Ensure Winners from the St. Madeleine School and Parish Community to
further Provide Zero Profit to Outside Vendors. All Proceeds Will Benefit St. Madeleine School/Las Rifas Esta
Diseñadas Para Asegurar Que Los Ganadores de Nuestra Familia del la Escuela y la Parroquia de Santa
Magdalena y Cero Beneficio a Proveedores.
*All Missed Mandatory Fundraising Hours are Billed at the $13 Hourly Rate
FACTS $45 per Family due with Registration Fee.
Mandatory for all Parents; Application due at time of Registration
Eleven (11) months Automatic Withdrawal on
the 5th or 20th of each Month
Tuition Payments begin August 2018 and last payment due in June 2019
$35 Late Fee for Insufficient Funds
TUITION Tuition Paid in House is Due the 1st Week of the Month – Approval of Principal
1st Request with either Telephone Call or Note = $25 Late Fee
2nd Request with either Telephone Call or Note = $50 Late Fee
SPECIAL FEES
Kinder Graduation Fee $100 Due by May 1, 2020
First Communion $150 ‐ 3rd Grade Only Due May 1, 2020
Family Envelope Replacement $5
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NON ADMISSION of STUDENTS DUE TO TUITION, FUNDRAISING and SERVICE DELIQUENCY
Parents are responsible for their child/children’s education. In sending him/her to St. Madeleine Catholic
School, we contract with the school to share this educational responsibility. The tuition and fees paid partially
finance a child’s education. All donations, fundraising and service help supplement the actual cost to provide
a Catholic education. It is in “Good Faith” that tuition assistance is made available to parents whose desire it is
that their children receive a faith‐ based education. However, there is an expectation that any “Reduction” in
tuition will be repaid by fulfilling all fundraising and service requirements and at times, go above and
beyond the minimum requirements All delinquent financial responsibilities are to be cleared by the end of
each quarter with cash or money order only. Failure to clear financial obligations including tuition,
fundraising and service hours will result in child/children being asked to leave the school until full payment
is made.
Parents must realize that they are responsible for the financial responsibilities of their child/children’s
education. In sending him/her to St. Madeleine School, parents’ contract with St. Madeleine to share this
educational responsibility. The tuition and fees parents pay partially finance their child’s/children’s education.
The contributions of St. Madeleine parishioners, the contributed services of the clergy, faculty and staff and
fundraising activities of students and parents, will supplement the actual cost to provide a Catholic education.
School families failing to pay tuition according to the agreement or complete fundraising and service as per
the contract including deadliness as published in the newsletter and who have failed to acknowledge receipt
of outstanding debt letter thus unwilling to make suitable alternative arrangements will….
Student(s) may not participate in any field trips until all debt is paid
Student(s) may not receive any Honor Award
Informed that their child/children will not be readmitted to St. Madeleine.
Students will be asked to leave St. Madeleine at the end of each quarter.
Report cards will not be issued until all outstanding balances have been paid in full.
“The laity can also feel called, or be in fact called, to cooperate with their pastors in the service of the ecclesial community, for the sake of its growth and life. This can be done through the exercise of different kinds of ministries according to the grace and charisms which the Lord has been please to bestow on them.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1997, #910)
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Discipline Discipline in the Catholic school is an aspect of moral guidance and not a form of punishment. The purpose of discipline is to provide a school climate conducive to learning and one that promotes character development. Discipline is maintained in the classroom and throughout the school when students work cooperatively with the principal, the teachers and their classmates towards the attainment of the class and school mission and objectives. However, it should be noted that the legitimate interest of St. Madeleine extends beyond the school day and beyond the school hours. Since children are in a process of development, we must give them definite guidelines and define our expectations to help them grow in self ‐discipline so that they may independently make the correct choices in any situation. Consequences for inappropriate behavior must be enforced consistently. St. Madeleine Catholic School will uphold a standard of student conduct which enhances the Catholic and academic atmosphere of the school. Each student is expected to conduct him/her self in a manner which shows self control, responsibility, respect and Christ like in all their words and actions. St. Madeleine will take seriously all threats to inflict harm to self or others. St. Madeleine teachers and administration will respond immediately to any statements or behaviors that threaten the safety and well being of students, faculty and staff. Maintenance of Effective Discipline
Consistent follow through
Constant encouragement of acceptable classroom conduct
Effective discipline is maintained when there is:
Firm but fair treatment of difficult students
Positive correction of behavior
Reasonable quiet and order in the building Discipline is handled in each class by the classroom teacher. Each teacher will develop reasonable rules and procedures that support school wide policies and create a learning environment where instruction and learning occur. When behavior interferes with the teaching and learning process the following procedures will be followed:
A demerit will be issued and placed inside the Homework Folder.
Parent(s) will check the Student Folder nightly.
Parents must sign the demerit and return it the next day.
Failure to return the demerit will result in an immediate detention issued.
Conduct Referrals and/or Suspension are issued for serious infractions
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Detention
No student shall be required to remain in the classroom during the lunch break, or during any recess. All students are required to leave the school‐ room at recess and lunchtime, unless it would occasion a danger to health.
After School Detention is considered an appropriate means of discipline 3:15pm – 4:30pm = $20 Payable to Teacher
A student shall not be detained in school for disciplinary or other reasons for more than one hour after the close of the school day.
Under no circumstances shall a student be detained at school without the knowledge and consent of the parent or guardian who shall be informed of the reason for detention and the exact time the period of detention will begin and end.
School Wide Classroom Rules A student will receive a Satisfactory “S” or Needs Improvement “NI” in behavior for...
Consistently disturbs/disrupts class interfering the “learning” of others.
Disturbing may include, but not limited to constant talking, playing with “items”, body language that is meant to interfere with task, jokes, or any “activity” that is purposely removing focus from the lesson and disrespectful to teacher and students.
Failure to change or correct behavior after several verbal warnings.
Pushes, kicks, shoves, bullies, hits or fights with others.
Argues or talks back to the teacher
Challenges the teacher in a disrespectful manner: tone, body language, etc...
Disrespects and failure to obey the directives of administration, faculty, staff or any adult serving on behalf of the school.
Disrespect and failure to obey any parent designated to assist the principal, faculty or staff.
Leaves the classroom without permission.
Talking or playing in church or during mass.
Playing in the bathrooms
Any vandalism or school property included but not limited to books, desks and bathrooms.
Chewing gum or candy on campus – A $25 fee will be incurred. School Wide Playground Rules In order to have a playground that is safe for all students, every student is required to follow playground rules, before, during and after school.
Upon morning arrival, students drop off their back packs on grade lines and then must sit in cafeteria
Cell phones are never allowed on campus
Students may not sit and wait by the office bench.
No playing or running around the playground.
Bathrooms are closed. In case of emergency, ask the teacher on supervision to open the bathroom.
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School Wide Playground Rules (Continued)
Students may not be in the office. Parents are the priority.
All correspondence for the office is given to the classroom teacher who then sends correspondence
with morning attendance.
On rainy days, students remain in cafeteria
Recess/Lunch Rules
No rough play. Pushing, kicking, shoving, etc… Be kind.
Intentionally throwing kickball, soccer ball, football, etc…at some one’s face is unacceptable.
No playing/running on benches near office. This is a work area for school business.
Do not stand or play on lunch tables.
Throw all trash into trash cans; clean up the lunch area.
Snack store located in courtyard
A snack is one item not an entire lunch
Students must sit at the lunch tables to eat their snack.
Students must sit and eat snacks; no walking around or playing while eating food.
When the whistle blows, students freeze.
Students line up with the second whistle.
Students may not use the restroom or water fountain after the whistle blows.
Teacher walks students to the lunch tables and supervises them in auditorium.
Students sit at designated tables.
Students may not stand up during lunch; Trash is thrown away when the teacher/lunch supervisor
dismisses the tables.
Raise hand for permission to use the restroom.
During playtime, no food on the playground.
If lunch is not finished, students may remain at the tables to finish.
Dismissal Rules
Teacher walks class out at dismissal to grade lines.
Students remain at grade lines until the teachers on supervision gives permission to leave the grade
line.
Restrooms may not be used after school.
Students may not wait by office gate.
Students may not be picked up on Kingsley Avenue: .
Conferences with teachers may not take place: this is a time for supervision.
Students registered in After School Care are escorted by teachers to Room 8
Supervision ends at 3:15 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 12:15p.m. on Friday. Students not picked up will
be signed into After School Care and appropriate fees assessed.
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Cell Phones/Electronic Devices
Cell phones and other portable communication devices (pagers, iPhones, iPods, Blackberries, walkie talkies, etc…) may never be brought or used at St. Madeleine including field trips. If a student uses a cell phone or other electronic device during the school day including before and after school, the following measures will be taken: ‐The device will be confiscated from the student and held until the last day of school.
‐Repeat violations of this policy will result in disciplinary measures appropriate to the circumstances, including
expulsion if warranted.
St. Madeleine is NOT responsible for lost, misplaced, stolen or broken portable communication devices or for any unauthorized use of such devices. St. Madeleine will NOT pay to replace devices that are lost, misplaced, broken or stolen after they are confiscated and will NOT pay any communications charges. School Wide Consequences Demerits are used as a means to address violation of any school or classroom policy.
Students in all grades, Transitional Kindergarten – 5th, earn demerits for any policy violation stated in the
Parent/Student Handbook. Our goal is to instill in our children a moral compass based on the teachings of
the Catholic Church and provide a quality education that prepares them for high school and college. This
can only be accomplished when a learning environment is maintained.
Conditions of Suspension Any of the reasons listed for expulsion where mitigating circumstances exist may be adequate cause for suspension of a student: No student shall be suspended from St. Madeleine for more than two (2) consecutive weeks unless there is an ongoing police investigation of a possible crime, in which case the student may be suspended during the entire investigation. Notice of the suspension must be given to the parent(s)/guardian by telephone or in a conference. The principal shall schedule a conference with the suspended student’s parent/guardians to discuss matters pertinent to the suspension especially the means by which the parent/guardian and St. Madeleine can cooperatively encourage the student to improve behavior. The suspended student may be present at this meeting. In no case will a teacher on his or her own authority suspend a student.
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Conditions of Expulsion A St. Madeleine student may be immediately expelled for any of the offenses, but not limited to, those listed below as per the Archdiocese of Los Angeles policy. The final decision for expulsion is made by the principal and pastor. ‐ Actions gravely detrimental to the moral and spiritual welfare of other students.
‐ Habitual profanity and vulgarity: Verbal or written
‐ Assault, battery or any threat of force or violence directed toward any school personnel or student.
‐ Bullying, harassing or hazing school personnel or other students.
‐ Open, persistent defiance of the authority of the teacher.
‐ Continued willful disobedience.
‐ Use, sale, distribution, or possession of any alcoholic beverages on or near school premises
‐ Use, sale or possession of narcotics, drugs or any other controlled substance
‐ Smoking or having tobacco.
‐ Stealing
‐ Forging signatures
‐ Cheating or plagiarism
‐ Willful cutting, defacing or otherwise injuring in any way property, real or personal belonging of the school
‐ Habitual truancy
‐ Possession of harmful weapons i.e., knives, guns, (BB guns or toys) or any object or material that can be used
as a weapon.
‐ Membership in, active involvement in, or affiliation with a gang or group responsible for coercive or violent
activity.
‐ Actions in or out of school which are detrimental to the school’s reputation
‐ Violation of the Electronic Use policies and guidelines.
‐ Inappropriate conduct or behavior unbecoming a student in a Catholic school.
Guidelines Related to Possession and Use of Alcohol and Controlled Substances
State and federal law prohibits the use, sale or delivery of alcohol to persons fewer than 21 or of controlled substances to person of any age, without a prescription.
The school will consult law enforcement agencies when an alcoholic or controlled substance violation occurs or come to the attention of the school with each case to be judged individually.
Students are encouraged to seek help from a school counselor for themselves or their friends when they are experiencing alcohol or controlled substance‐related problems that are not publicly known in the school or community. School personnel may provide referrals for alcohol and controlled substance abuse so that help can be offered to parents and students.
If a student is known to be dealing in controlled substances or providing alcohol on or off campus, or if a student is convicted in court for drug sale, possession or use, the student may be asked to withdraw from the school or may be expelled.
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Procedures in the Case of Suspected Possession or Use
In cases of suspected use of alcohol or controlled substances on campus, school administrators should follow certain procedures. They should:
‐Evaluate observable symptoms
‐ Attempt to determine if the student is in possession of alcohol, drugs, controlled or other harmful
substances
‐ Interview the student in the presence of an adult witness
‐ Request the student’s cooperation in conducting a search of his or her person and possessions (search may
include the student’s lockers and other locations on the school grounds, the student’s car where it is
suspected that controlled or other harmful substances may be hidden).
‐ Determine the need for medical attention; in cases which require emergency medical treatment, contact the
parents and follow the instructions on the emergency card
‐ Recommend examination by a physician
‐ Provide information to parent or guardian regarding the availability of public or private resource agencies for
rehabilitation
In cases where sale or possession is verified, school administrators follow these procedures:
‐Confiscate all physical evidence obtained as a result of the investigation by sealing the evidence in a container
bearing the date and the time of confiscation, the name of the student from whom it was confiscated, as well
as the signature of the person(s) who confiscated it.
Procedures in the Case of Suspected Possession or Use ‐Consult with police. The degree of involvement by the police will be determined in each case. If a student involved does not have a history of substance abuse or significant delinquent behavior, the police may determine that no further involvement by a law enforcement agency is necessary. ‐ When a principal or other school official releases a minor to a peace officer, the school principal shall immediately notify the parent, guardian or responsible person regarding the release and the place to which the minor is reportedly being taken. ‐ If an arrest is made the student is removed from school, a representative of the law enforcement agency notifies the parent or guardian prior to the time that the student would normally return home from school. If an arrest is not made, the student may be suspended from school. A conference with the parent and the student should be arranged in a timely manner.
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Procedure for Expulsion Except in cases involving grave offenses, the following steps must be taken:
‐A conference must be held with the parent or guardian, student, teacher and principal present to advise the family that serious action is contemplated unless behavior improves immediately. In parish schools, the pastor should be notified of the conference, given an opportunity to attend the meeting and provided a report of the discussion.
‐If behavior does not improve, the final decision will be announced at a second conferences attended by the principal, teacher, and parents or guardians. If the parents/guardians fail, without cause, to attend the conference, the pastor, principal and teacher will reach a final decision. The final decision rests with the pastor in consultation with the principal.
‐In no case will a teacher on his/her own authority expel a student.
‐Full credit will be given for all work accomplished by the student up to the moment of expulsion. Written Record A written record of the steps leading to expulsion may be kept on file with copies of all communications and reports. Cases Involving Grave Offenses
‐In cases involving grave offenses, which may include a violation of criminal law or actions so outrageous as to shock the conscience or behavior of the community, the student is immediately suspended and there is no requirement to hold the initial principal – parent conference. ‐The procedure involving cases of grave offenses should be followed when the continued presence of the student at school (even for a short period of time) will, in the reasonable judgment of the principal, pose a serious threat to the health and welfare of another student or students or faculty members. ‐When immediate suspension is imposed, with probable expulsion, while the case is being investigated, the rules and consequences of the violation shall be clearly explained to the student and parent/guardian. Time of Expulsion
‐Any expulsion may be made immediately if the reasons are urgent. ‐Only in exceptional cases shall expulsion of an eighth grade student, who has been in the school one or more years, be allowed. ‐If any expulsion is to take place during the last quarter/semester of the school year or during the last quarter in the case of an eighth grade student, prior approval of the Department of Catholic Schools is required before the expulsion can take effect. ‐If such action is contemplated, approval shall be obtained before the announcement of the final decision to the parents at the meeting described below.
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Reporting of Expulsion All expulsions even if they occur at the end of the year, are reported to the elementary supervisor at the Department of Catholic Schools. The County Office of Education where the school is located may require notification of pupil expulsions. Right to Make Exceptions The principal, in consultation with the pastor, retains the right to make exceptions in cases where mitigating circumstances call for a different response than policy suggests Home Study Circumstances may arise which dictate that a student, at the discretion of the principal, be excluded from school attendance for a period of time. This is a remedy for unusual situations and is not considered a suspension. Students may be given tests, etc… outside school hours so that grades can be reported. Disapproved Disciplinary Action ‐All corporal punishment including shaking and slapping
‐Language that is sarcastic or calculated to bring ridicule on the student, his/her parents or background.
‐Using religious exercises or important class assignments as punitive measures
‐Withholding or altering rightfully earned academic grades
‐Any disciplinary actions that isolates a student without proper supervision
‐Bizarre and unusual punishment.
‐Fines where the offense did not cause destruction to property.
‐Requiring a student to remain inside during recess or lunch
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Abuse of Principal or Teacher
Any parent, guardian or other person, who upbraids, insults, or abuses the principal or any teacher, is guilty
of a misdemeanor. Any parent or other person, who insults or abuses the principal or teacher/teachers in the
presence of other school personnel or students and at a place on school premises or where the principal or
teacher/teachers are required to be in connection with an assigned school activity, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Any parent, guardian or other person who verbally or physically abuses the principal, teacher or any staff
personnel will be asked to leave the school grounds immediately. Police will be called upon refusal or the
moment any harm to students or school personnel is identified.
Harassment Policy St. Madeleine School is committed to providing a learning environment that respects Christian values and is free from harassment, bullying or hazing in any form. Harassment, bullying or hazing of any student, by any other student, lay employee, religious, clergy or school volunteers is prohibited. The school will treat allegations of any such conduct seriously and will review and investigate such allegations in a prompt, confidential and thorough manner. Substantiated acts of harassment, bullying or hazing by a student, will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal of the student. Students found to have filed false or frivolous charges, will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. For students in Kindergarten – third grade, this disciplinary action shall depend on the maturity of the students and the circumstances involved. For students in grades four – eight, the disciplinary action may include suspension or dismissal.
“The church has always considered catechesis one of her primary tasks for before Christ
ascended to his father after His resurrection, He gave the apostles a final command – to
make disciples of all nations and to teach them to observe all that He had commanded. He
thus entrusted them with the mission and the power to proclaim to humanity what they had
heard, what they had seen with their eyes, what they had looked upon and touched with
their hands, concerning the Word of Life. He also entrusted them with the mission and the
power to explain with authority what He had taught them, His words and actions, His signs
and commandments. And He gave them the spirit to fulfill this mission.” (Catechesi
Tradendae, #1)
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Harassment
Harassment occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment or a school environment which is hostile or intimidating. It includes, but is not limited to, any or all of the following: Verbal Harassment
‐Derogatory comments or jokes; threatening words spoken to another person. Physical Harassment
‐Unwanted physical touching, contact, or assault, ‐Deliberate impeding or blocking movement, or any intimidating interferences with normal work or movement. Visual Harassment
‐Derogatory, demeaning or inflammatory posters, cartoons, written words, drawings and gestures. Sexual Harassment
‐Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual
nature.
‐Unsolicited sexual advances and propositions.
‐Using sexually degrading words to describe an individual or any individual’s body. Displaying sexually
suggestive objects or pictures.
‐Telling inappropriate or sexually related jokes.
‐Making reprisals or threats or reprisals/revenge or implied threats following a negative response to sexual
advances.
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Harassment Policy (Continued) Bullying Bullying is the habitual harassing, intimidating, tormenting, browbeating, humiliating, terrorizing, oppressing and/or threatening of another person. Bullying typically consists of direct behaviors, such as teasing, taunting, threatening, hitting, shoving and stealing that are initiated by one or more students against a victim or victims. In addition to direct attacks, bullying may also be indirect, such as spreading rumors that cause victims to be socially isolated through intentional exclusion. Whether bullying is direct or indirect, the key component of bullying is physical or psychological intimidation that occurs repeatedly over time to create an ongoing pattern of harassment and abuse. Students also may be involved in cyber bullying, which occurs when they bully each other using the Internet, mobile phones or other cyber technology. This can include, but is not limited to: ‐Sending inappropriate test, e‐mail, or instant messages ‐Posting inappropriate pictures or messages about others in blogs, web sites or social communication networks ‐Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone Hazing Hazing is any method of initiation or pre initiation into a student organization or student body or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to these organizations which causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm, to any student or person. Students are responsible for: ‐Conducting themselves in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment
‐Avoiding any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, bullying or hazing
‐If a student is a target of harassment, bullying or hazing, when possible, informing the other person(s) that
the behavior if offensive and unwelcome
‐Reporting all incidents of discrimination, harassment, bullying or hazing to the principal or teacher.
As appropriate, the students involved may be asked to complete a formal, written complaint which will be investigated and will involve only the necessary parties. Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible.
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Harassment Policy (Continued) It is the responsibility of the school to…
Establish practices and provide staff development training and age appropriate information for students,
designated to create a school environment free from discrimination, intimidation and harassment.
Make all faculty, staff, students, parents/guardians and volunteers aware of this policy and the commitment of
St. Madeleine towards its strict enforcement.
Remain watchful for conditions that create or may lead to a hostile offensive school environment.
It is the responsibility of the student to… ‐Conduct himself/herself in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment and is representative of Catholic morals and values ‐Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, bullying or hazing. ‐Inform, if possible, the other person(s) that the behavior is offensive and unwelcome. ‐Report of incidents of discrimination, harassment, bullying, hazing or any behavior previously described to the principal, teacher, pastor or parent. ‐As appropriate, the students involved may be asked to complete a formal, written complaint which will be investigated thoroughly and will involve only the necessary parties. Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible.
Student Threats
All threats by students to inflict serious harm to self or others, or to destroy property, will be taken seriously. Whoever hears or become aware of any threat made by a student should immediately report it to the pastor, principal or a teacher. The principal will notify the police and the Department of Catholic Schools immediately. The student(s) who have made the threat will be kept in the school office under supervision until the police arrive. The parents or guardians of the student who has made the threat will be notified. Any adult or student, who has been identified as the potential victim or mentioned in writing as a potential victim, will be notified immediately. The student who has made the threat will be suspended until the investigation by the police and school has been completed. The decision to re admit a student who has made a threat will be made by the principal and pastor on a case‐by‐case basis. Practical jokes or off hand comments of a threatening nature will be taken seriously and will be investigated. The police may be notified and these actions may result in suspension or removal of a student from school.
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School Searches
A students’ legitimate expectation of privacy in their person and in the personal effects they bring to school
must be balanced against the obligation of the school to maintain discipline and to provide a safe environment
for the school community. Accordingly, school officials may conduct a search of the student’s person and
personal effects based on a reasonable suspicion that the search will disclose evidence that the student is
violating or has violated the law or a school rule.
School officials do not need a warrant or a parent’s permission to conduct a search of the student and/or the
student’s personal property, as long as they have a reasonable suspicion that a law or school rule is being or
has been violated.
(Students do not own their lockers or other school property. Lockers are made available to the students by
the school. The student does have some expectations of privacy in his or her locker from other students.
However, a student may not exclude school officials if the school official has a reasonable suspicion that a law
or school rule has been violated.)
A student has a greater expectation of privacy concerning his/her backpack, purse, clothing and other
personal effects. A school official who finds it necessary to conduct a search of a students’ backpack, purse,
clothing or personal effects, must have a reasonable suspicion that the student is violating or has violated a
law or school rule. The students’ parents should be notified of any such search.
An alert from trained and certified detector dog is sufficient to allow school officials to have a reasonable
suspicion and to conduct a search of the student’s locker, car or his/her personal property and effects. In
addition to this policy on searches by the school, every student is subject to the Archdiocesan and school use
and privacy policies concerning cell phones and other electronic devices, whether the devices belong to the
school or to the student.
If a student refuses to cooperate in a reasonable search of the school or student property (including electronic
devices), the student’s parents and/or the police may be called for assistance or referral.
In the event that any items belonging to a student are confiscated, the principal should document the fact
and, when possible, take a photograph of the place where the confiscated object was found and of the object
itself. It is also recommended that the school obtain a signature from the student acknowledging that the
item was in his or her possession at the time it was found.
“As Christian stewards, we receive God’s gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them lovingly in justice with others and return them with increase to the Lord.” (U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Letter, To Be A Christian Steward.)
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We will adhere to all the policies as stated in the Parent/Student Handbook specifically “Parents guardians
are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with the school…students, parents/guardians may
express their concerns…but may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor driven,
disruptive, threatening, hostile or divisive. …may be asked to withdraw their students from school. “A child
may be asked to transfer on grounds relating to the attitude of parents/guardians. A situation in which the
uncooperative or destructive attitude of a parent diminishes the effectiveness of the school administration
and/or faculty to act in loco parentis may result in immediate dismissal from St. Madeleine Catholic School.”
PRINCIPAL’S RIGHT TO AMEND
The principal reserves the right to amend the Parent/Student Handbook during the school year. Parents will be notified if changes are made.
WAIVER of POLICIES
The principal, in consultation with the pastor, is the final recourse of al disciplinary matters, and can, for just
cause, at his/her discretion waive any disciplinary regulation.
RECEIPT of St. Madeleine Parent/Student Handbook
Received on the Day of September, Back to School Night, 2019
Our family has received and read the St. Madeleine Parent/Student Handbook for the 2019 – 2020 school year. We are
aware of, understand, and agree to follow the policies and procedures stated in the Parent/Student Handbook. We
acknowledge that St. Madeleine has the right to amend the Parent/Student Handbook during the school year as needed
and we agree to follow the policies and procedures as may be added and amended.
We understand that we may be asked to withdraw our child/children from St. Madeleine or our child/children may not
be invited to return the following year, if we fail to meet responsibilities as outlines in the Parent/Student Handbook and
any amendments and additions that may be made. Our signatures below indicate our commitment to fulfill our
obligations according to the requirements of the Parent/Student Handbook for the academic year 2019 – 2020
______________________________________________ _____________________ Father’s Signature Date ______________________________________________ _____________________ Mother’s Signature Date __________________________________Grade:____ _____________________ Student Signature Date __________________________________Grade:____ _____________________ Student Signature Date __________________________________Grade:____ _____________________ Student Signature Date