Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to St. Leo Catholic School! In choosing St. Leo School, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic education.
The Parent/Student Handbook reflects the policies of St. Leo School for the 2012/2013 school year. Please read this document carefully and sign the attached agreement. This agreement states that you intend to abide by the policies of St. Leo School during the 2012/2013 school year.
The faculty and staff of our school look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Together let us pray that God, who has begun this good work in us, may carry it through to completion.
God bless you,
Mrs. Carolyn L. Polselli
Principal
St. Leo School is accredited through the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
St. Leo School Philosophy
St. Leo School is a community that offers an educational opportunity to learn within a Catholic/Christian structured environment. St. Leo School provides a nurturing atmosphere, which fosters and strengthens a community of faith. As a staff, we are committed to challenge each student to achieve academic excellence through an integrated curriculum rooted in Gospel values and Catholic teachings.
There is no discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, or national origin. A student must be able to function within the program offered by St. Leo School.
ATTENDANCE
Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that their children attend school on a consistent basis in accordance with Massachusetts General Law chapter 76, sections 2 and 4, and that their children attend on time. Taking students out of school for vacations, other than at scheduled vacation times, is strongly discouraged. Excessive absence (40) days or the equivalent of 40 days, including tardiness, can be cause for a student to be retained in the current grade for another year and/or attend summer school.
Absence
When a student is absent from school, a parent must call the office by 9:00 AM each day of the absence. If the office does not receive a call, a parent will be contacted. This policy is for the protection of the St. Leo students.
Students must be fever free for 24 hours without medication before returning to school. Students who are sent home during the school day with a fever will not be allowed to return to school the next day as this would not allow for the 24 hour protection of the entire school community.
Students experiencing vomiting and/or diarrhea must remain at home for a minimum of 24 hours, and must be able to keep down solid food, as well as having no further bouts of vomiting/diarrhea. Students should not be sent to school in the morning if they were vomiting the night before or were dismissed from school the day before as this would not allow for the 24 hour protection of the entire school community.
A written statement giving reasons for the absence or tardiness must be brought to the student’s teacher upon the student’s return. These notes/letters will be retained in the office for one year. Should absence for any reason other than illness seem imperative, parents are requested to consult with the principal and present a written reason for the absence.
Absences for three or more consecutive days due to illness require a doctor’s note.
Make-up Work for Absences
Students who are absent due to illness have one day for each day of absence to make up the missed assignments, quizzes or tests. For example, a student who was absent three days would be given three school days to complete the missed work.
A parent may call the school office before 9:30 AM to arrange for homework assignments. Homework assignments may be picked up at the school office between 2 and 3 PM.
Arrangements for regular classroom tests missed because of an absence are to be made with the individual teachers. These tests must be taken within one week of the original test date.
The school calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning process. Missed assignments are the student’s responsibility.
No assignments will be given in anticipation of a vacation. Students can collect missed work on the first day they return to school after their vacation.
Absence During the School Day
Students needing medical appointments during school hours require a written note by the parent. Parents are required to sign out their child. If the child returns to school during the same school day, he/she must be signed back into school in the office.
Tardiness
Students in Kindergarten through grade five who arrive after 8:30 A.M.* are considered tardy.
Middle school students who arrive after 8:25 A.M.* are considered tardy.
*Arrival time is based on when they arrive in the classroom. Middle school students receive a detention for every 5 unexcused tardies.
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FORMS are available ON-LINE at www.factstuitionaid.com or at the school office.
Tuition Payment Options:
Payment Options:
• Pay in full by July 1 prior to the start of that school year.
• Enroll in the FACTS® Tuition Management Service. Payments are made from July through May.
• Please note that you may pay in full for one child and utilize FACTS® for another.
Enrollment/Re-Enrollment
• The $100.00 Application Fee for new students must be submitted with the application.
• All Application Fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.
• There will be a $25 returned check fee for all checks made payable to St. Leo School each time they don’t clear the bank.
FACTS® Tuition Management Service Overview
• There is an annual non-refundable administrative fee for enrollment in the FACTS® program per family. This fee will be added to your tuition collected by FACTS® – please do not make this payment to the school.
• Pay tuition over 11 months via personal checking account or savings account.
• Your enrollment form to FACTS® must be returned with your registration.
• All families not selecting the FACTS® tuition plan will be expected to make one direct payment to St. Leo School for the entire amount of tuition no later than July 1 prior to the start of that school year in order to receive the 2.5 % discount. You may drop off your payment to the school office or mail it to the school.
Withdrawal Policy
• Families must notify the school in writing if a student is withdrawn from the school.
• Registered students who withdraw before the first full day of school are responsible for one month’s tuition.
• Registered students who withdraw between the first day of school and December 15th are responsible for one quarter of the full tuition amount.
• Registered students who withdraw between January 1 and April 1 are responsible for one-half of the full tuition amount.
• Registered students who withdraw after April 1 are responsible for the full tuition amount.
• A $100 administration fee will be charged to any student withdrawing during the school year.
• If tuition remains unpaid within a two-month period, St. Leo School will send a 30 day notice demanding that the parent bring their FACTS account current. If this demand notice is not complied with, the parent will not be permitted to participate in the FACTS Tuition Management Program for the following school year. No child will be permitted to attend St. Leo School until any balance owed for the previous school year has been paid in full.
• The school will not forward records for students who withdraw or graduate with an outstanding balance, including unpaid fees.
A RETURN FEE OF $25.00 WILL BE ASSESSED TO YOUR ACCOUNT EVERY TIME A CHECK IS RETURNED FOR INSUFFICIENT FUNDS.
PLEASE ADDRESS ALL TUITION QUESTIONS TO THE SCHOOL.
CODE OF CONDUCT
In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school, which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All students must cooperate with the spirit and policies of the school which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, and concern for the environment.
The principal or assistant principal reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action if any doubt arises.
Students are expected to:
1. Accept leadership and authority of all teachers, staff members, principal and volunteers.
2. Respect all classmates and their property and their possessions.
3. Respect all school property and keep their school neat and clean—no littering.
4. Dress in proper school uniform at all times.
5. Not chew gum.
6. Be honest, considerate and thoughtful to all with whom they come in contact.
7. Cooperate with teachers and other students.
8. Do nothing that may injure another person by word or by action.
9. Use only acceptable language.
Major Offenses:
The Diocesan School Office, in conjunction with the discretion of the principal has established procedures whereby students may be suspended or expelled for any of the following reasons:
1. BULLYING: the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. (as stated in M.G.L. chapter 71, section 370)
2. OBSCENITY: The act of using obscene language by students in verbal or written form, pictures, or gestures in or on school property.
3. STEALING: The act of dishonesty acquiring the property of the school, another student, teacher, or staff member.
4. FORGERY: The act of fraudulently using in writing the name of another person or falsifying times, dates, grades, addresses, or other data on school forms or assignments.
5. FIGHTING: The act of quarreling involving bodily contact during any school activity.
6. DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY: The failure to respond or carry out a reasonable request made by any faculty, staff member, or volunteer.
7. GROSS MISBEHAVIOR: The act of deliberate conduct that is detrimental to school functions or threats to staff members or to others.
8. VANDALISM: The act of willful destruction of school property or property belonging to others.
9. TRUANCY: The act of repeated skipping of class, or tardiness to class.
10. WEAPONS: The deliberate act of bringing to school any items that could cause bodily harm or injury to another person.
Minor Offenses:
Minor offenses are any offenses which are not covered under major offenses and include anything which necessitates students being sent or taken to the principal, or being spoken to by their teacher. This would include habitual breaking of classroom rules.
Any student who is in violation of the school rules will have a conference involving the student, parent, teacher and principal. Suspensions are issued at the discretion of the principal.
Bullying, Cyber Bullying, & Sexting
St. Leo School seeks to provide a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats, including electronic transmissions, made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (seriously or in jest; directly, or online) face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion, at the discretion of the principal. Where situations warrant, authorities may be notified as required by law.
Engagement in online sites such as, but not limited to, MySpace.com®, Xanga®, Friendster®, Facebook®, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content the student’s activities includes defamatory comments regarding the parish, the school, the faculty, or other students. Students involved in possession or transmission of inappropriate photos/texts/emails on their cell phones or other electronic devices face suspension and/or expulsion.
Bus Conduct:
Riding the bus is a privilege. Whether riding the bus to school, from school, or on a field trip, all students are expected to:
1. Respect the bus driver.
2. Remain seated, and keep backpacks and objects out of the aisle.
3. Refrain from loud talking, shouting, or unnecessary confusion.
4. Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves.
5. Keep hands and head inside the bus.
6. Respect all individuals. No bullying.
Any notification – by the bus company, parents, or students – of inappropriate behavior on the bus will result in disciplinary action which may include losing bus riding privileges.
Cafeteria Conduct:
Students are reminded to be polite to those serving them. A “please” and “thank you” are always appreciated.
1. Students are to walk in an orderly manner and wait quietly until served.
2. After being served, students will immediately find a place to sit at a table.
3. Before being dismissed to recess, the students will dispose of lunch materials in an appropriate manner.
4. Tables and floor areas are to be kept as clean as possible.
5. Teachers and parent volunteers provide supervision during lunch period and recess time. Their directions should be following in a prompt and courteous manner.
6. Voices should be kept at a moderate level in the cafeteria.
Classroom Conduct:
Each Student is expected to:
1. Be prepared for class (books, pens, pencils, homework, etc.)
2. Change classes and move through the school in a quiet and orderly fashion.
3. Respect authority of all adults.
4. Take individual responsibility for work missed when absent.
5. Purchase St. Leo homework folder and assignment book.
6. Leave all toys including, but not limited to, video games, skateboards, iPod’s, CD players, hand-held video games, other electronic equipment, bicycles, skateboards, Pokemon cards, etc. at home.
7. Cover all books and carry them in an appropriate school bag/back pack; replace any textbook that is lost or damaged. Lost or stolen items are not the responsibility of the school.
8. Cheating of any type will not be tolerated. Students who choose to cheat face a failing grade, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. A student who is involved in cheating will also be unable to participate in extracurricular activities.
Discipline
Detention
A detention may be issued for a breach of classroom and/or school rules. Parents are provided with a Detention Form as written notification of the detention. The day, date, and time of the detention are at the discretion of the teacher or principal. Detention takes precedence over appointments, practices, lessons, tutoring, ballgames, etc.
Suspension
Students who are given an in-school suspension will be required to report to school each day and work with the principal. Students who receive an out-of-school suspension will not be allowed on campus during the time of their suspension. Students must complete all class work and tests from the days of suspension but failing grades will be recorded for this work. Students who are on suspension are not allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities.
Expulsion
Expulsion is an extremely serious matter. Students who pose a threat to themselves or to others may be expelled from St. Leo School. Students who have been expelled will not be allowed to re-apply for admission to the school without prior permission from the principal.
Students whose parents have violated the Parents as Partners agreement in this handbook may also be excluded from St. Leo School.
Drugs and Alcohol
Students who possess drugs and/or alcohol at school or at any school function face suspension and/or expulsion.
Gum
Students must not chew gum at any time that they are at school or any school event. This includes before school, during school, and after school. Disciplinary action will occur for student’s chewing gum during the course of the school day or during car or bus line. Gum chewing in church is disrespectful.
Harassment
Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. When warranted authorities will be notified in accordance with the law.
Off-Campus Conduct
The administration of St. Leo School reserves the right to discipline its students for off-campus behavior that is not in line with behavior expectations of its students during the course of the school day. This off campus behavior includes, but is not limited to, cyber-bullying.
Playground/Recess Rules:
1. Nerf balls (no hard balls), Frisbees, jump ropes, or Skip-Its may be used with the teacher’s permission.
2. Rock, stick, or snowball throwing is prohibited at all times.
3. Physical fighting or bullying will result in:
a. Loss of recess
b. School suspension
c. Parent-teacher conference
d. Notification of authorities of necessary
4. No ball playing is allowed before school.
5. No toys are to be brought to school including, but not limited to, video games, iPod’s, CD players, hand-held video games, other electronic equipment, bicycles, skateboards, Pokemon cards, etc.
Respect
Students are to be respectful at all times of all adults at St. Leo School. This includes the yard and cafeteria monitors and all other parent volunteers. The following consequences will result if any student is disrespectful.
1. The student must write a letter of apology to the adult before leaving school. The letter will be taken home and signed by the parent or guardian, and returned to the homeroom teacher the next school day.
2. The student will serve one lunch recess detention with a teacher or the principal.
3. The student will serve an after school detention with a teacher or the principal.
Respecting School Property
The parent of a child who carelessly destroys or damages any furniture, equipment, textbooks, library books, buildings, or anyone’s personal property will be obligated to pay the full amount of repairs and labor or replacement. Textbooks must have a proper book cover. No writing in textbooks is permitted. The student will pay a fine or replacement for damaged or lost texts before any final reports, transcripts, or diplomas are presented.
Restroom Conduct:
Students are required to:
1. Use the restroom as needed, and not as a place to socialize or play.
2. Keep the restrooms clean for the benefit of all.
3. Flush the toilets when finished.
4. Leave used paper towels in the provided wastebaskets.
5. Leave pens, pencils, markers, crayons, etc. in the classroom.
6. Maintain a clean appearance and wash their hands before returning to class.
7. Turn off the water faucets completely before leaving the restroom.
Toys and Other Items
Items such as, but not limited to, questionable books and pictures, white-out, knives, guns, matches, cigarettes, radios, toys, pagers, cell phones, laser lights, palm pilots, CDs, iPods/ mp3 players, cameras, or anything that will distract from a learning situation are not allowed at school at any time. Key chains and toys may not be attached to student backpacks.
The school administration, in accordance with state laws, will determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken concerning the presence of these items in the school. Items taken away from students will be returned to the parent(s)/guardian(s) on the last day of the school year.
DRESS CODE
Gym Uniform:
Boys and Girls: Grades K-8
1. White T-shirt with school logo
2. Sweatshirt with school logo (includes team sweatshirts, performing arts, etc.)
3. Hunter green gym pants with school logo
4. Hunter green shorts with school logo (worn at the discretion of the principal)
5. Sneakers that are not their uniform shoes, with non-marking soles.
6. White or black gym socks
Regular Dress Uniform:
Girls: Grades K to 5
1. White school blouse (Peter Pan or Oxford)
2. School jumper
3. School navy V-neck sweater or vest with school logo
4. Socks (ankle or knee) or tights: plain white, green, navy or grey
5. Plain (non-marking sole) black sneakers or non-marking black shoes. No boots, of any kind, are allowed to be worn during the school day.
6. Navy school slacks purchased at Allen’s may be worn in the winter time at the discretion of the principal.
Girls: Grades 6-8
1. White school blouse or polo with school logo
2. School skort, no shorter than one inch above the knee
3. School navy V-neck sweater or school vest with school logo
4. Socks (ankle or knee) or tights: plain white, green, navy, or grey.
5. Plain (non-marking sole) black sneakers or non-marking black shoes. No boots, of any kind, are allowed to be worn during the school day.
6. Navy school slacks, purchased at Allen’s, may be worn in the winter time at the discretion of the principal.
Boys: Grades K-8
1. School white polo shirt with logo
2. Navy twill or Dockers style school pants purchased at Allen’s Store
3. School navy V-neck sweater or vest with school logo
4. Socks: white or navy blue
5. Plain black sneakers with non-marking soles
6. Navy Bermuda shorts purchased at Allen’s Store (may be worn at the discretion of the principal)
7. Boys’ hair MUST be no longer than the top of the ear and above the eyebrows. NO SPIKED HAIR IS ALLOWED
*No jeans, sweat pants, or gym pants may be worn on school picture days. Hats may not be worn in the building or during indoor field trips.
The St. Leo School uniform does not consist of the following:
1. Rolling waistbands
2. Sweatshirts worn as part of the regular dress uniform
3. Dangling and/or multiple sets of earrings (earrings size of dime only)
4. Silly Bands, or multiple bracelets
5. Tattoos
6. Choker necklaces
7. Sneakers with wheels
Dress down day fashion does not consist of tank tops, shirts with spaghetti straps, tight fitting clothing, torn jeans, low waist pants, mini-skirts, or shirts with inappropriate sayings or pictures.
ONLY BERMUDA SHORTS ARE ALLOWED, NO SHORT SHORTS
GENERAL POLICIES
Cell Phones
If a student needs a cell phone after school due to walking home from school, entering a house where no one is home, or attending extracurricular activities, he/she should bring the cell phone to the classroom upon arrival in the morning to place the cell phone in the off position and on the teacher’s desk for the day. The cell phone may be picked up by the student at dismissal. At no time during the day should a cell phone be in a student’s desk, in their school bag, in his/her possession, or used for calls or texting. Items taken away from students will be returned to the parent(s)/guardian(s) on the last day of the school year.
Extended Day Program
Students in grades Pre- K through 5 arriving before 8:15 AM must report to Extended Day and will be charged accordingly.
The St. Leo School extended day care program will be available from 7:00 A.M. until 5:30 P.M. during the school days. The program will not operate during school vacations, days off, or holidays. The program will service any St. Leo School student. The program is staffed by a certified teacher or aid.
The parent will be billed on a weekly basis. The bill is due upon receipt or no later than the Monday following that week’s bill. A late fee of 15% will be added to the balance owed for each day after the Monday due date. If payment is not received within two weeks, the privilege to attend will be terminated until payment is made.
If there is a delay for schools, morning extended day care will be cancelled. If there is an early dismissal, afternoon extended day care will be cancelled.
Students are prohibited from photographing and/or videotaping other students during extended care or extracurricular activities without written parental consent.
Field Trips
1. Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals.
2. Field trips are re-evaluated each year to determine the trips compatibility with curricular goals.
3. A field trip is a privilege and not a right.
4. There are no “traditional” field trips. Class participation in a particular field trip over consecutive years does not mean that this trip has become a school tradition.
5. All grades do not always have the same number of field trips.
6. Field trips are permissible for all grades when advanced planning, location, and the experience insure a successful learning opportunity.
7. Individual teachers, in consultation with the administration, reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct.
8. A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip activity. Verbal permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due in the office forty-eight hours after receipt of the permission slip.
9. A telephone call will not be accepted in lieu of the proper field trip permission slip.
10. Parents may refuse to permit their child from participating in a field trip by stating so on the proper form. Students who do not attend a field trip will remain at home with the parent and will be marked absent for the day.
11. Students who are participating in the field trip must ride the bus to and from the field trip with their class. Students not on the bus may not participate in the field trip and will be counted absent for the day.
12. All monies collected for the field trip are non-refundable.
13. Cell phones are not allowed on field trips unless otherwise directed by the teacher and/or administration.
14. Parents who are not “official” chaperones may not drive their car to a field trip destination with the plan of accompanying the class on the field trip. Our risk management insurance company insures the “official” chaperones and participation by unofficial chaperones jeopardizes the protection for our students and all other “official” adults on the trip.
15. Parents who chaperone a field trip may not bring pre-school or school-age siblings on the field trip.
16. All chaperones must be 25 years of age or older.
17. The Guidance Counselor is the Safe Environment Coordinator. All staff members and volunteers must receive a CORI check and watch the safe environment video.
Gifts
Students should not exchange individual gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt feelings among other students.
Invitations for slumber parties or birthday parties should be sent to the homes of students via the U.S. Mail unless an invitation is being given to every student in the entire grade.
Home-School Communication
Official school-wide emergency and other important communications are sent using the CONNECT-ED phone system, web site, e-mails, and monthly newsletters.
Homework
Formal home-study is assigned to help students become self-reliant and self-directed. Assignments are designed to reinforce daily lessons, to supplement and enrich class work, and to prepare for certain lessons through various experiences.
Since each student has different capabilities and interests, it would be difficult to denote the specific amount of time to be spent on an assignment. If a problem arises, the teacher should be contacted.
Long range projects may be assigned at various times during the year. These projects are in addition to the daily homework. Teachers will provide written details of what is expected in any given project.
Homework due to Vacations/Planned Absences
The school calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning process. Missed assignments are the student’s responsibility.
No assignments will be given in anticipation of the vacation.
Library
Students in Grades Pre-K through 6 have use of the school library weekly and may ordinarily borrow two books for one week if previously borrowed books are returned. Books may be renewed twice. Any material being borrowed for a project may be kept as long as needed. Reference books may not be borrowed from the library.
Lost or damaged books must be paid for or replaced. It is a privilege to borrow books and if books are not paid for or replaced, the student will lose the privilege to borrow books the following school year.
Students may not use the library without supervision.
Lost and Found
Any items found in the school building or on the school grounds should be brought to the Lost and Found basket located in the school cafeteria. Items placed in the Lost and Found remain there for 30 days. After 30 days, items are donated to charity.
Students who lose a library book, textbook or workbook must pay the replacement cost of the book plus shipping in order to receive a new copy.
Privacy
Visitors, volunteers, and substitute teachers function in a limited capacity at St. Leo School. Visitors, volunteers, and substitute teachers are not granted access to student records (academic or health), faculty/staff records, or grade books.
Physical Education
All students are required to take physical education. If, for some reason, they cannot participate on any given day, a note must be received from a parent or physician. Sneakers with non-marking soles and the St. Leo gym uniform are required. Failure to have them will mean no participation for that day. A lack of participation will be reflected in the student’s grade.
School Office Hours
The school office is open on all school days from 8:00 AM – 3:15 PM.
School Cancellations
St. Leo School follows the Leominster Public Schools’ decisions for delayed openings and cancellations due to weather conditions. The principal will send out a CONNECT ED call to inform the parents of any delays or cancellations. Parents are asked to refrain from calling the school for this information.
Student/Parent Directory
Within the first month of the school year, each family receives a Student Directory listing students’ and parents’ names, addresses, home telephone numbers, cell numbers, and e-mail addresses.
The Student Directory should be used to acquaint parents with the names of their children(s) classmates and parents. These directories should not be used or sold for other purposes.
Student Records
St. Leo School adheres to the Buckley Amendment (Family Education Rights and Privacy) regarding access to student records. Records of students transferring to other schools will only be sent through the US Mail. No records will be given to parents to transport to the new school.
Person requesting records/transcripts/recommendations must make a five school-day request to the School Office. All forms should be submitted to the St. Leo School Office for distribution. Completed forms will be sent via the U.S. Mail. Special handling will require that all postal fees be paid by the parents.
No records will be sent to transferring schools of a student whose financial commitment is in arrears.
Telephone
The office phone is a business phone. Students are permitted to use the office phone only in case of an emergency, and with permission of the secretary. The office will not call home for homework, books, athletic equipment, out-of-uniform clothes, or other forgotten items. Arrangements for after-school visits with friends should be made at home.
Testing
The Terra Nova tests are given in Grades 2 through 8.
We attempt to limit the number of tests in the middle school (grades 6-8) to no more a maximum of three quizzes or tests per day. However, this will be changed when the circumstances or scheduling require.
Transfer of Students
Notice of withdrawal of a student should be made by the parent in writing to the principal in advance of the withdrawal date. This enables the school to prepare necessary information and settle accounts. No student records will be forwarded to another school until all accounts have been settled.
Visitors and Volunteers
School visitors (volunteers, parents, etc.) must come to the main office. For safety and security reasons, each person is required to sign in at the office when he/she enters the building for any reason. All visitors and/or volunteers are required to wear a designated badge that may be picked up in the office. Visitors and/or volunteers are to sign out at the time of departure.
Parents who volunteer to serve lunch or who volunteer in another capacity in the school may not drop in to a classroom to see their child or the teacher during the day. This is an interruption to the teacher and to the educational process.
The main responsibility of a volunteer is to assist the administration or teachers. For this reason, pre-school siblings are not allowed to accompany parent volunteers to school for meetings, supervise students in the cafeteria, supervise on the playground, to assist with class parties, or to decorate bulletin boards.
GRADING
Grading Scale
A+ =95- 100
A = 90 - 94
B+ = 85-89
B = 80 -84
C+=75-79
C = 70-74
D = 65-69
F = 64 or below
Report Cards/Progress Reports On-line Grades 4-8
Report Cards are important tools for communication. Report Cards will be given four (4) times during the academic school year in grades 1-8 and twice a year in Pre-K and Kindergarten. The schedule for conferences will be listed on the school calendar. In addition to scheduled conferences, a parent (or teacher) may request a conference at any time throughout the year. These meetings are usually held before or after school hours and appointments must be arranged by calling or writing to the teacher involved. An explanation of the marking code is on the report card. Homework (written or studied), participation, class work, tests, quizzes, reports and projects are all added into the final grade.
IEIschools is the online grading system used for students in grades 4-8. Students’ averages are updated as grades are posted. Parents and students are encouraged to log on to IEIschools on a regular basis to monitor academic progress.
Academic Probation
A student whose academic performance indicates serious deficiencies may be placed on academic probation. Students on academic probation will be placed on a two week improvement plan. At the end of the two week period, the student’s academic progress will be assessed. A “D” and/or “U” will result in a two-week minimum suspension from all activities with a three-week maximum suspension. At the end of the probation period, the student’s academic performance will be re-evaluated and, if necessary, the probation period will continue.
Students whose average is an F will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities or academic competitions. Students who have failed a course for the year must attend a designated summer school session. Individual tutoring will not be allowed as a substitute.
Students with special needs will be evaluated on an individual basis by the administration.
Parents will be given the specific details of the guidelines regarding grades and extracurricular activities when they enroll in the activities.
Honor Roll Requirements: Grades 6-8.
High Honors: All “A’s” in major subjects. No letter grade below “S” or C in minor subjects and all the skills mastery section.
Honors: All “A’s” and “B’s” in major subjects. No letter grade below “S” or C in minor subjects and all the skills mastery section.
Incompletes
If students are unable to complete all assignments due to an absence that falls at the end of a grading period, a grade of incomplete may be given on the students’ report cards. Work must then be completed within a time frame determined by the teacher. It is the students’ responsibility (or parents’ of younger children) to make arrangements for the completion of all work.
Students must attend all required school functions that take place outside of regular school hours. Failure to do so will affect the student’s grade.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Emergency Drills
State Law requires that fire drills be held monthly. During the fire drills, students should follow these regulations:
1. Rise in silence when the alarm sounds;
2. Close windows and doors;
3. Walk to the assigned place briskly, in single file at all times, and in silence;
4. Stand in a column of two’s, facing away from the building;
5. Return to building when signal is given.
Child Abuse Laws
St. Leo School abides by Massachusetts General Law chapter 119, section 51A. This law mandates that all cases of suspected abuse and/or neglect be reported to the Department of Families and Children (formerly known as D.S.S).
Counselor
A certified guidance counselor serves the needs of students and parents through class and individual consultation.
Crisis Plan
St. Leo School has implemented a “crisis plan” in case of a lockdown emergency. All teachers and staff are aware of the procedure to follow to keep your children safe. In the event of such an emergency, circumstances permitting, the building will be evacuated and students will be moved to one of three secure designated locations:
7. St. Leo Church
8. Off Campus – across the street at Carter Park
9. Sisters of the Presentation Convent
Medication
If a child must take any medication in school which is prescribed by a doctor, that medication must be sent to the School Nurse in the container received from the pharmacy and must have on its label the following information:
b. Child’s name
c. Name of doctor prescribing the child’s medication
d. Frequency
e. Dose
f. Date
All non-prescription medication (cough drops, lip balm, etc.) should be taken to the School Nurse with the following information:
a. Child’s name
b. Frequency
c. Dose
d. Date
Office Records and Emergency Information
Parents/Guardians are requested to notify the school office in writing of any change of address, home telephone numbers, cell phone numbers, business phone numbers, e-mail addresses and/or phone numbers of emergency contacts. This will guarantee that office records are accurate, complete, and up-to-date.
Safety Procedures
• All doors will be locked during school hours and during the Extended Day Program. A sign is posted on all doors directing visitors to the main door to ring the bell. When entering the building, all visitors must report to the office, sign in and get a visitor’s badge. Visitors must sign out and return the badge when leaving the building.
• Supervision of the children during recess will be by a staff member and parent volunteer.
• School dances and social events will be chaperoned by teachers and parent volunteers.
• No student will be released to an adult unless we have received a written note from the parent stating the change in transportation arrangements.
• A parent must grant permission through the school’s consent form for photographs to be placed in the newspaper or on the internet.
• The Guidance Counselor is the Safe Environment Coordinator. All staff members and volunteers must receive a CORI check and view the Safe Environment video.
Parents as Partners
As partners in the educational process at St. Leo School, we encourage parents:
• To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher Conferences;
• To see that the student pays for any damage to school books or property due to carelessness or neglect on the part of the student;
• To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers;
• To meet all financial obligations to the school;
• To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health;
• To complete and return to school any requested information promptly;
• To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;
• To support the religious and educational goals of the school;
• To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;
• To treat teachers and all staff members with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems.
• To set rules, times, and limits so that your child:
• Gets to bed early on school nights;
• Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day;
• Is dressed according to the school dress code;
• Completes assignments on time;
Parent’s Role in Education
We, at St. Leo School, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe parents are the primary educators of their children. Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life---physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Your choice of St. Leo School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life.
Good example is the strongest teacher. Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others. Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in the child unless these are nurtured by the example of good Catholic/Christian morality and by an honest personal relationship with God in your family life.
Once you have chosen to enter into a partnership with us at St. Leo School, we trust you will be loyal to this commitment. During these formative years (Pre-K to 8), your child needs constant support from both parents and faculty in order to develop his/her moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical growth. Neither parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner in the quest of challenging, yet nourishing, the student to reach his/her potential. It is vital that both parents and teachers remember that allowing oneself to be caught between the student and the other partner will never have positive results. To divide authority between school and home or within the home will only teach disrespect of all authority. If there is an incident at school, you as parents must make investigation of the complete story your first step. Evidence of mutual respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and relationships.
Students are naturally eager to grow and learn. However, sometimes in the process of maturation new interests may cause them to lose focus. As this natural process occurs, the student needs both understanding and discipline. At times, your child may perceive discipline as restrictive. However, it is boundaries and limits which provide a young person with both guidance and security.
It is essential that a child take responsibility for grades he/she has earned and be accountable for homework, long-term assignments, major tests, service projects, and all other assignments. This responsibility also extends to times of absence.
Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.
Parent Teacher Organization
St. Leo School Parent Teacher Organization works to support and enhance the educational ministry of the school. Fund-raising, parent education, and building community are goals of this organization. It is important for all parents to get involved and attend the PTO meetings during the school. PTO dues are included in the tuition.
St. Leo School Parental Cooperation Policy
Parental cooperation is required for continued enrollment at St. Leo School. Parents are expected to cooperate in good faith with the implementation and enforcement of all St. Leo policies and procedures as stated in this handbook and requested by the administration and staff. Parents are also expected to be supportive of the school, the administration and all school staff in public.
Parental behavior or failure to cooperate shall be grounds for removal of any student from the school. Additionally, parents are expected to speak and act in a Christian and positive manner at all times; this includes positive conduct while on the school campus, and all school or Diocesan sponsored activities. Disrespectful behavior, vulgar language, or verbal abuse or written abuse, or any other form of electronic transmission of any administrator, staff member or another school family may create a situation in which a family may be required to immediately withdraw their child from the school, or a family may not be invited to return the following school year. St. Leo School expects all parents to accept and live the mission of the school.
*Right to Amend
St. Leo School reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Notice of amendments will be sent home with the parents through email or mailed to your home.
Parent Signature Page
I have read the 2012/2013 Parent/Student Handbook and agree to follow the school policies and procedures as stated.
Family Name_________________________________________________
(Print Please)
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Parent signature Date
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Parent signature Date
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Student signature Date
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Student signature Date
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Student signature Date
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Student signature Date
*Parents and students must both sign.
THIS FORM MUST BE SIGNED AND SENT TO YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER.
St. Leo School
Agreement for the Acceptable Use of Computers and the Internet
Grades 2 through 8
St. Leo School is pleased to offer its student’s access to the Internet through our electronic network. The Internet is a global network that provides access to a wide range of information from around the world. Our purpose in providing Internet services is to encourage students to reach “one pace beyond” and to assist in preparing them to become responsible caretakers of God’s world in the 21st Century. It is important that they understand that use of this powerful educational tool is not a right, it is a privilege. They can lose this privilege if they break any of the network access rules.
Because St. Leo uses the Internet as part of its computer curriculum and classroom activities, the school’s code of conduct applies to all computer related activities. Therefore, the Acceptable Use Policy is an extension of the school’s behavior code. These rules apply to vandalism of computer equipment, unauthorized access to information, computer piracy, hacking, and any tampering with hardware or software.
While St. Leo School wants students to use this valuable educational tool, we do not condone the use of inappropriate information on the Internet. We acknowledge that some materials exist that are inappropriate to the instructional setting and do everything we reasonably can to prevent them from being accessed. You must clearly understand that access to such materials in any form is strictly forbidden. The network is designed to achieve and support instructional goals. Students should avoid any information that does not support classroom learning.
Please note that student DO NOT have e-mail access privileges and are not allowed to check their home e-mail accounts or go to personal WEB pages during school. Also, students are not allowed in Chat rooms or on sites that are not approved by their teacher.
Student Use Agreement:
• Students shall not use impolite, obscene or abusive language on the computer systems.
• Students shall not access any unauthorized sites including their own personal WEB sites.
• Students shall not access personal e-mail accounts.
• Students shall not display, store or print any offensive or abusive messages or pictures.
• Students shall not download software or change any computer files or settings.
• Students shall not plagiarize information found on the Internet.
• Students shall not trespass in the folders, work files or data of other students or teachers.
• Students shall use the Internet for academic purposes only.
• Students shall only use search engines that have been approved by the teacher.
• Students shall ask permission before printing any information.
By signing below, I pledge to follow these rules while using the internet at St. Leo School. If I break these rules, I agree to the following consequences:
1. Suspension of computer privileges
2. School suspension
Student Signature: ___________________________________________ Grade: _______
St. Leo School
120 Main Street
Leominster, MA 01453
978-537-1007
Parental Consent Form
Agreement for the Acceptable Use of computers and the Internet
St. Leo School has chosen to permit students access to computer and the internet in order to further their educational goals. Reasonable care has been taken to ensure the appropriateness and educational quality of the material available, although it is not possible to screen out tall offensive material available on the Internet. St. Leo School and the Diocese of Worcester would like to reiterate that the parent or guardian has the primary responsibility for imparting the standard of ethical and legal conduct their child or ward should follow while using the Internet. St. Leo School supports and respects each family’s right to decide whether their child may have access to this resource.
Please Check One:
________ I hereby request that my child have access to, and use of, the computer and Internet resources at St. Leo School. I also hereby indemnify and hold harmless the Diocese of Worcester and St. Leo School from any claim or loss resulting from any infraction by my student of the policies or any applicable law.
________ I do not wish my child to have access to, or use of, the computer and Internet resources at St. Leo School.
By signing below, I the parent/guardian of the below name student acknowledge that I have read the Acceptable Use Agreement and have either explained it or read it to my child. I am convinced that my child understands the policy regarding use of computers and the Internet. I also understand the policy and my child’s responsibilities regarding computer hardware, software and Internet Access at St. Leo School.
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PRINT Student’s Name Grade
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Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date