FAMILY MANUAL 2013-2014 “Lord make me an instrument of thy peace” 2516 Palm Street Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-326-7955 661-327-0395 fax www.stfran.org/sfs -1©2013 St. Francis Parish School From the Pastor.... August, 2013 Dear St. Francis Parish School Families, I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome you to our Parish School. For over 100 years St. Francis Parish School has offered a strong, faith-filled education for Catholic families. The Church states that parents are the primary educator of their child and we are here to assist you, because we know what an important role you have…being a parent. By representing the values, changes and spirit of the Roman Catholic Church in our curriculum and activities, I believe we can help you to develop loving, caring, and faith-filled children. We have a collaborative group of administrators, staff, teachers and aides, who I believe God has chosen to guide your child. Know that example is the greatest teacher. We invite you to be active members in St. Francis of Assisi Parish, or whichever parish your family attends. Together, through your School, worship, and fellowship, our children will come to know and love Christ through His Church. I pray that this new school year will be spirit filled and the entire experience of being a part of the St. Francis family blesses each of you. Rev. Msgr. Craig F. Harrison Pastor Join Us For Worship Saturday Sunday Daily 8:00 am (Honoring Mary) 5:00 pm (Vigil) 7:30 pm (Vietnamese) 6:45 (English) 8:30 (Family) 10:30 (Family) 12:00 Noon (Youth) 5:00 pm (Spanish) 7:00 pm (English) 6:30 am 12:10 pm St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church - 900 H. Street -2©2013 St. Francis Parish School Confessions Saturday 8:30 am - 9:30 am or call the Church Office for an appointment at any time. - (661) 327-4734 From the Principal.... A Prayer for those in Leadership: Holy Wisdom, Spirit of Truth, be with those who have been called to leadership…. Strengthen them to do what is needed to further the reign of justice and mercy in our world. Give them words that animate and challenge us to action. Give them vision and perception to read the signs of the times. Give them hearts of compassion to understand the needs of your suffering people. Amen. Praying in the Spirit of Catherine McAuley, Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy August 2013 Dearest St. Francis School Families, On behalf of our administrative team: Mrs. Diana Othart, Vice Principal; Dr. John Ritter, School Administrator, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Pre-School Director, faculty and staff, and myself, I would like to take this opportunity in welcoming all of our new families to the St. Francis Family and to say “Hello” to our returning families after what I hope was rest-filled and blessed summer. We do have a few new faces to add to our faculty and staff along with students and their families. Let’s take time to meet and greet one another as we begin a fantastic new year with all of its challenges in the spirit of faith, family, and friends. I treasure meeting each and every one of our families and working together in building our community with a deep sense of respect for one another and responsibility in our thoughts, words, and deeds. We live our lives walking in the footsteps of our patron, St. Francis, and are blessed to have the opportunity in celebrating weekly Mass for our students on Fridays and spending time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament at Adoration on Thursdays unless otherwise noted. We will walk to Church for certain Holy Days and the end of the school year Mass in May. Please take note of the following: • As a new parent at St. Francis of Assisi Parish School and those who wish to volunteer in your child’s classroom or assist in field trips you MUST attend a Safe Environment workshop and be fingerprinted to have a Clear Criminal History on file in the school office. If you would like to drive for field trips, we need you to give us a copy of your driver’s license and your declaration page of your automobile insurance. Please check with the office for training times and dates for Safe Environment. There is an online training available which you may want to ask about as well. • Our Camp KEEP for sixth grade students will be held from Monday, September 9th through Friday, September 13th. St. Francis Parish School will be attending with the other Catholic/Private Schools in Bakersfield. • On Friday, September 13th 2013, there is a noon dismissal in preparation for our Parish and School Annual Fiesta. We will begin our weeks of IOWA Assessment testing from September 16th through September 27 . Please DO NOT make any doctor’s appointments or vacation plans for those two weeks. The first three hours of the morning will be used for testing in grades two through eight. It is very important that your children arrive at school on time and have had plenty of sleep and a good breakfast. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated! th -3©2013 St. Francis Parish School From the Principal.…(continued) We will continue to email your statements and other communications home to you. It is imperative that you check your New Information email daily. If you have not activated your new Information Now account, please email your account request to [email protected] and she will email you your activation code. Our teachers will be responsible in updating Information Now, therefore, your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. We are blessed with a committed and talented faculty and staff and we are blessed with a beautiful campus and school that is a safe haven for our children. We have the latest technology and educational experiences to enhance the learning of our students. We have the support of our School Board, the PTO, and the St. Francis Foundation working with us. At last, but certainly not least, we have the faith-filled commitment of you, our parents, as we work in partnership in the spiritual and academic formation of our children. We look forward to a successful school year as we work with our parents, the primary educators of their children, in building a responsible, respectful, faith-filled, Catholic community here at St. Francis of Assisi Parish School. On behalf of our pastor, Monsignor Craig Harrison, Mrs. Diana Othart, Dr. John Ritter, Mrs. Mary Johnson, and myself, and in the words of St. Paul… let us use every chance we have for doing good and place our hope in our God for a wonderfully blessed new school year. May our God bless all our families, faculty, staff, and benefactors this school year. Sincerely in Christ, Sister Cristina Caballero, RSM Principal of St. Francis Parish School Visit our website online at www.StFrancisParishSchool.com For quick and easy access to the calendar, newsletters, teacher contacts and more Check out our website! -4©2013 St. Francis Parish School Table of Contents Section I History of St. Francis Parish School… Page 7 Section II Philosophy… Page 15 Section III Policies & Procedures… Page 20 Section IV Academic Curriculum… Page 25 Section V School Support Groups… Page 46 Section VI St. Francis Pre-School… Page 50 Section VI I Organizational Structure… Page 53 Section VIII Facility Maps…...Page 56 -5©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section I History of St. Francis Parish School -6©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School.... The Sisters of Mercy originally staffed St. Francis Parish School which began in 1910. The school was located on Truxtun Avenue between “H” and Eye Streets, in the heart of the downtown area. Beginning in 1940, one (1) year of high school was added each year, thus making St. Francis a combination grade and high school. In 1943 the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma, Washington accepted the leadership of the school. It continued to operate as both grade and high school until September of 1947 when Garces Memorial High School was opened. St. Francis High School students transferred to the new co-instructional, inter-parochial school staffed by the Dominican Sisters and the Christian Brothers. At this time the seventh and eighth grade boys from all parishes in the city also attended classes at the Garces campus. Seventh and eighth grade girls remained at their respective parish schools. In 1951 a new eleven-classroom elementary school and cafeteria for grades K-8 was built at the present location on Palm and Pine Streets. Classrooms were added in 1954 and again in 1962, bringing the total number of classrooms to fourteen (14) plus a Library. The Kindergarten was discontinued in 1955. In 1963 the Garces Junior High for boys was closed in order to free the Christian Brothers to take on more of the teaching load for the expanding high school; seventh and eighth grade boys were again taught at St. Francis. This arrangement continued until 1964 when all seventh and eighth graders at St. Francis attended class at the St. Francis Annex, a fourclassroom junior high located on Stockdale Highway. In the fall of 1970, due to the financial difficulty of operating two (2) schools, all students returned to St. Francis School. This school now accommodated students from grades (1) through (8). Grades one through (5) had self-contained classrooms and grades (6), (7) and (8) were departmentalized. In 1971 the sixth grade returned to a self-contained classroom until 1988-89 when it was once again configured with the seventh and eighth grade departmentalized structure and remains that way today. During the summer of 1972 Room 14, an unused classroom, was carpeted and converted into a Faculty lounge-workroom, which gave faculty a place to meet, work and relax. In 1981 Room 7 was once again made into a Kindergarten facility. St. Francis re-started their Kindergarten program with a three-hour morning session and a three-hour afternoon session. This program continues through to the present. In 1985 an extended Day Care operation was added to the school through the joint cooperation of the School Board and Administration. Childcare was offered for forty-five (45) minutes before school and three (3) hours after school. Room 6, an unused classroom, was utilized for Childcare before and after school and as the tutor’s room during the school day. -7©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... In 1988 the Day Care was moved to the Cafeteria because all existing classrooms were needed for classes. In 1989 four (4) additional bedrooms in the Convent were converted to school use. A Library was constructed adjoining the Computer room. The existing Library on the east end of the north wing became classroom 15. In 1990 additional classroom space was needed and the existing teachers’ lounge, that was originally classroom 14, was re-converted back into a classroom and once again became Room 14. The storage building that was built in 1982 was consolidated and half of it was remodeled for the teachers’ lounge and workroom. A small patio for eating outside was also constructed. In 1990 the PTO committed to running a self-contained full service lunch program. Monsignor Lahey had purchased a new stove and refrigerators in the spring of 1989, and the PTO purchased a garbage disposal, dishwasher, and deep fat fryer. Volunteers ran the lunch program for the school. In the summer of 1991 a new playground was installed in the sandbox area of the school. The play structure was purchased by Nellie Martinez as a memorial to her daughter Jessica, who was kidnapped and murdered the year prior. The landscaping and construction of the playground was a donation of various businesses in the community. In the fall of 1992 the parish bought three (3) houses and a lot adjacent to the school property. This purchase gave the school ownership of all the property facing Palm between A and Pine: two (2) lots facing A Street, all but two (2) lots facing Dracena and all of the property facing Pine. During the spring two (2) of the lots were cleared and prepared for construction. In the summer of 1993 new bathrooms were constructed adjacent to the Cafeteria and a permanent cover was installed over the patio area. The existing bathrooms were converted to offices and workrooms. Two (2) classrooms and a parking lot were constructed on the newly acquired property. The house on Palm Street was converted into a Religious Education Center. There were seventeen (17) classrooms on campus and two (2) classes per grade level. The teacher’s lounge was converted into a classroom and half of the storage area was converted into a teachers lounge. In the spring of 1993 the School Board committed to establishing a Pre-school. Michelle Le Favre was hired as director and began development and licensing of a program. A house was rented at the school’s expense for the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Crondlet and the convent was converted to a Preschool. A house was located on Palm Street three (3) doors down from the school. Construction and moving began in June and was completed in September 1993. The Kindergarten moved into the old Chapel and the Kindergarten room was converted into a junior high science room. The school now had eighteen (18) classrooms, Library, Computer Lab, offices and full-service kitchen and Cafeteria. -8©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... The Preschool site was used for extended Day Care at this time. Michelle Le Favre was transferred to Sacramento and Mary Johnson was hired as Preschool Director. In 1994 the breezeway was glassed-in making a reception area and meeting space. Air conditioning and heating were installed in the office complex. The Pre-school was completed, licensed and teachers hired. From the day it opened the Pre-school has been full with a three-year waiting list. In 1995-96 the school was wired for Internet access and networking. Telephones and message system were installed in every room. In 1996-97, with the help of the St. Francis School Foundation, a thirty (30) station computer lab was installed in Room 15. Dell computers, a server, and two (2) air conditioners were purchased and remodeling of the room was completed. Converting space presently occupied by two (2) offices and the teacher’s kitchen provided space for a new classroom. This new classroom is located between Room 12, an original classroom, and Room 14 was converted from the teacher’s lounge. In 1997-98 the Student Government students remodeled the area between the North and South building installing planters, benches, planting new plants in all the areas. New coolers were installed in all rooms and new carpeting was installed in all classrooms. In 1998-99 the breezeway was converted from meeting and reception space into office space. The two (2) small class spaces were converted into a teacher’s workroom space. The Vice Principal’s office had an outside access door installed. In the summer of 1999 the Library and Computer Lab (in the old Convent) were remodeled into two (2) Kindergarten classrooms and the Pre-school and Kindergarten were renovated with new coolers, thermopane windows, new flooring and new cabinets. The Cafeteria was renovated with new wall covering, new ceiling and windows the previous summer. The Pre-school gained an additional classroom, the capacity was increased and the new room was immediately filled. The classroom between Rooms 13 and 14 was renovated for a second time and was converted into a Library. The teacher’s lounge was remodeled and a kitchen, bathrooms and air conditioning were added. A house on “A” street, that adjoined the property, was acquired and remodeled into the extended Day Care facility. That facility was out-grown in two (2) months and traded space with the Religious Education Center. The teacher’s workroom in the office complex was cut in half and half the space was assigned to the CCD director for an office. The end of Room 14 was assigned to CCD for storage. The “A” Street house became the Religious Education Resource Center and the Palm Street house became the extended Day Care house with one (1) room being used as the school’s tutoring classroom, one (1) room as the Foundation Office, and one (1) room as the Day Care office. The three (3) living spaces are used for extended Day Care. The summer of 2003 began the new re-modeling plan. Room 8 was gutted and new energy saver windows, lighting, air conditioning, white boards, bulletin boards, and rug were installed. New desk were purchased and the room was up-dated. This was accomplished largely by donation with the promise of paid work for all the other rooms. -9©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... The pastor wanted to get an accurate figure of the cost of the renovation of each room so that he could begin a re-modeling capitol campaign. Also included in the capitol campaign was a new gymnasium to be built on the east side of the campus and two (2) new classrooms to be added to the first grade classroom wing. The summer of 2003 also saw the completion of the security fence around the school and the installation of new sprinklers on the back field. The 2004-05 school years saw the re-instatement of a music program to the school curriculum, and a formal art curriculum was added in grades K-8. The PTO purchased new computers for the Computer lab and St. Phillips the Apostle parish gifted the school with a PowerPoint projector to be used in class rooms, at assemblies, and at Church. The Academic Decathlon team won first place and represented the Fresno Diocese at the State Competition. New math textbooks were purchased for grades K-6. In the 2005-06 school year classroom aides were added in each math, reading and English class. The aides provided the opportunity for the classroom teacher to provide targeted assistance to students with additional educational needs. The Capital Campaign purchased new tables and chairs for the Cafeteria. The Capital campaign Committee, after successfully raising over six (6) million dollars, began planning for the refurbishing of the school and Pre-school. The PTO contributed $30,000 for new playground equipment and playground bark. The money has been put in savings until the refurbishing plan is finalized. Finally, new literature textbooks were purchased for grades six (6) through eight (8). Currently in the school complex there are twenty-one (21) classrooms, a Library, Computer Lab, teacher’s lounge, teacher’s workroom, eight (8) offices, a workroom three (3) storage spaces, Cafeteria, kitchen, six (6) Pre-school classrooms, a Pre-school kitchen and laundry room a Chapel and office. There is a school playground and Pre-school playground with two (2 parking lots. There are 554 student enrolled in the total parish school setting. The students are taught by lay teachers, one (1) religious teacher from the Sisters of Mercy and a lay principal. The 2006-2007 school year began with a “new look" after the summer of construction. Underground wiring provided for the upgrade of the PG & E service. Asbestos was removed from the ceilings of all classrooms. Insulation and additional ceiling support have been added in preparation for air conditioning units that are to be installed next summer. The PTO and Foundation purchased new playground equipment and two (2) new classrooms will be completed for the Kindergarten. With the Kindergarten move to the main campus, the Preschool will be able to accommodate more students. Next summer, the Capital Campaign will complete the renovation of classrooms with the installation of “dropped ceilings”, new doors, new windows, new wiring and air conditioning. After a textbook review at the end of the 2005-2006 school year, new textbooks in Social Studies were purchased for grades Kindergarten through eight (8). - 10 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... The 2007-2008 school year begins with renovation of classrooms under way. All fourteen (14) classrooms will be completely renovated by June 2008. During the summer the water pipes were replaced in the Pre-school and the Pre-school was painted and refurbished. With the addition of the two (2) classrooms previously used for Kindergarten the Preschool is able to serve more of our parish students. The primary education building was dedicated in the memory of Adrian Pasquini. Science books have been purchased this year and a new position of Student Activities has been added to the administration. This is a part-time administrative and part-time teaching position which will enhance physical education, health curriculum and student extra-curricular activities in sports and academics. By March of 2008 all students had moved back into the renovated classrooms and computer lab. With the conclusion of the renovation all asbestos has been abated in the school complex. In May of 2008 the St. Francis School Foundation equipped eight (8) classrooms with Smartboards and sound systems and six (6) classrooms with projectors and sound systems with Smartboards planned for installation in the 2008-2009 school year. In May California Steaming was purchased for all classrooms and teacher began using it. California Streaming provides over 5000 video and PowerPoint presentations that are standard based to enhance the curriculum. The St. Francis Academic Decathlon Team won First Place in the Diocese of Fresno competition and represented the diocese at the state competition in San Diego. The class of 2008 and the ASB officers gifted the school with the Prayer of St. Francis which is hung on the east cafeteria wall. The principal became an associate of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and the pastor was elected the bishop’s Vicar Forane for the Kern Inyo deanery. The 2008-2009 school year began with a re-novated campus. During the summer of 2008 the asphalt playground surface and part of the concrete surface were torn-out and resurfaced with drainage and a new concrete playground. New sprinklers were installed and new grass was planted in the lawn area. The PTO and Foundation funded all the playground work. Teachers reviewed the English textbooks in 2008 and previewed the reading series in 2008-2009. A new language arts textbook series will be purchased this school year. During the summer of 2008 the “A” Street house was re-novated to house the Extended Day Care Program and the Palm Street house was re-novated to house the Religious Education Program for the parish. The Title I tutoring program and the primary/middle grade tutoring program moved into the former Religious Education Program office. The Spanish curriculum added an additional level with the purchase of middle grade Spanish textbooks. Physical Education in the fourth grade became single sex physical education along with grades 5-8. Third grade moved to the first and second grade lunch and recess schedule, and honor roll eligibility was deferred to the second semester, making the transition from the primary to middle grade curriculum easier for the third grade students. For the fourth consecutive year classroom teachers and their respective students and school wide community service projects contributed over $25,000 back into the community. - 11 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... The Academic Decathlon team placed fourth and an eighth grade student won the Human Resource contest. An alarm system was installed throughout the entire campus. In the fall of 2008 the intermediate classroom wing was dedicated to Dolores Freeman Cerro who donated over (2) million dollars for capital improvements and scholarship to St. Francis Parish School. Education City was purchased for the computer lab. The pastor was elevated to Monsignor in the spring of 2009. The principal received the NCEA Distinguished Principal Award , and the Pastor received the NCEA Distinguished Pastor’s Award for a Catholic School at the NCEA convention in Anaheim in April. A vice principal was appointed by the Pastor in May and will begin with the 2009-2010 school year. In 2009-2010 St. Francis Parish School completed a WASC/WCEA accreditation in the fall and received word in June 2010 the school had received full accreditation of six (6) years. In the spring 2010 the school celebrated its 100th anniversary with a week-end long celebration that included a dinner dance and a Mass the following morning celebrated by Bishop John Steinbach. The 100th anniversary committee published a history book titled FAITH and a cookbook was also published to commemorate the anniversary. KNXT TV televised several programs about the anniversary and Catholic Education. The Foundation completed the Smartboards installation in the first grade and a sound system in the Computer Lab. The PTO was very successful with their fundraising and was able to fulfill their budget commitment plus update computers in the Computer Lab and the classrooms, purchase new uniforms for the sports teams and an internet filter system for the school. In May the school held a old-fashion field day for the students to celebrate the 100th anniversary. A retirement party was held to say good-bye to Mrs. Beck, Mrs. Tanner and Cindy Peters. Monsignor Craig announced that the school would have a new administrative structure with Mr. Antongiovanni as Administrator, Mrs. Meek as Principal, Fr. Denis Ssekannyo as Vice-Principal and Miss Pascoe as Counselor. The School Board by-laws were revised to reflect this new administrative structure. The 2010-2011 school year brought more exciting changes to the St Francis school community. Mrs. Meek announced her retirement and Msgr. Craig assembled a committed group to plan a very memorable retirement party for Mrs. Meek. In attendance were her family, close friends and associates she had worked with and cherished throughout the years. Although is difficult to think about life at St. Francis without Mrs. Meek, again Msgr. Craig assembled a very dynamic administrative team in an attempt to replace Mrs. Meek. Fr. Dennis was promoted to Principal, Mrs. Othart and Sr. Cris were appointed as Vice Principals and Dr. John Ritter was hired as School Administrator to support and mentor the new administrative team. With this team of administrators Msgr. Craig is confident that St. Francis Parish School will become stronger academically, grow spiritually and build on an ever-stronger faculty to prepare student for continued academic success and spiritual growth. St. Francis Parish School is committed to fostering in students a greater understanding of their faith, a greater passion for learning and increased success in higher learning. - 12 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School History of St. Francis Parish School (continued)... Technology changes were made and St. Francis up-graded its computer servers and increased the broadband so teachers and students would be able to access information more quickly and parents would have access to increased information about the academic progress of their children. A weekly school Mass was scheduled on campus, providing for more frequent services for students; thus, students would no longer have the weekly walk to Mass at St. Francis Parish church. The Pre-school roof was completely removed and replaced and air conditioners replaced swamp-coolers in every classroom making it more comfortable for the “little scholars”. The Pre-school interior courtyard was also renovated, resurfaced and another play area was added. - 13 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School - 14 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section II Philosophy - 15 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Diocese of Fresno Mission Statement dents spiritually, academically, and socially. “Fulfilling The Mission of Jesus Christ,” the primary goal of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Fresno, is to assist students to grow into fullness of life in Jesus, to embrace their baptismal call to ministry, and to continue the mission of Jesus in their lives. Thus, the diocesan motto for the Catholic schools. Philosophy This motto stresses that graduates from St. Francis Parish School should realize Jesus’ unconditional love in their lives and freely embrace His mission, ministry, and values. Their lives should be founded upon six (6) central Christian virtues: A. Faith: The graduate is a person whose faith in God is living, conscious, and active. B. Courage: The graduate is a person who willingly acts on his/her Christian convictions no matter the cost, the pain, or the sacrifices it entails. C. Respect: The graduate is a person who respects and honors God, self, and others. D. Integrity: The graduate is a person who consistently stands for and lives his/her moral principles. E. Responsibility: The graduate is a person with the capacity to make free and responsible decisions and the ability to accept both personal and social responsibility for his/her actions. F. Compassion: The graduate is a person who feels the pain of those suffering and who works toward making a better life for all those in need. St. Francis Parish School Mission Statement St. Francis Parish School strives to provide excellence in student-centered education through integration of faith, family and friends. The school promotes the development of an educated, confident, self-disciplined and community-conscious Catholic Christian. St. Francis Parish School recognizes the parents as the primary educators of their children and works with them in partnership to prepare stu- St. Francis Parish School believes that Jesus Christ is the reason for the school. He is the unseen, but ever-present teacher in the classroom, the model for faculty, the inspiration for children, parents, and the source of all Christian life. The Catholic Church believes that each Catholic-Christian child has the right to the best Catholic-Christian education possible. St. Francis Parish School welcomes the responsibility to achieve this goal. The school lives the mission of Jesus to form a community of believers and to teach the redeeming message of God's love. The school invites everyone into a life-giving relationship that challenges each person to become a unique member of the community who respects and appreciates nature, culture, and other people as part of God's Creation. St. Francis Parish School exists to provide a quality education, to build the self-esteem of students and to prepare them to become the future leaders of our parish, their community, and their world. Spiritual The primary purpose of a Catholic-Christian school education is to communicate Christ’s message. St. Francis Parish School empowers students to live the faith in their relationships and activities with Catholic-Christian values. Their faith becomes a living, conscious, and active reality through teaching and learning. St. Francis Parish School students are encouraged to foster their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and become an active faith-filled Christian who practices his/her faith by making good moral choices and is aware that his/ her actions have consequences. Academic St. Francis Parish School believes that parents are the primary educators of their children. The school works with them as a cooperative community having common purposes and mo- - 16 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School tivated by common ideals. The school is committed to assisting parents in educating their children to become respectful, responsible young adults exhibiting good sportsmanship and good citizenship. Each student is provided the opportunity to achieve his/her highest academic potential, spiritual growth, emotional development, and sense of integrity in a child-focused and nurturing environment. The school will help students become lifelong learners and problem solvers who can express their thoughts, be organized and creative, and highly motivated individuals. They are lifelong learners who appreciate the pursuit of knowledge and possess a sound foundation in all subject areas. They can adapt to change and use critical and analytical skills in obtaining the objectives and goals they have set for themselves. Social St. Francis Parish School concentrates on forming a Catholic-Christian who is a person involved in all sectors of society, including family, church, the work community, nation and the world. Catholic-Christian education offers each student the opportunity to learn and practice personal and interpersonal skills, which enables him/her to give service to society. St. Francis graduates recognize and appreciate the diversity of cultures represented in the church-school community. They are responsible citizens who possess and respect the integrity of others and of themselves. Faculty and staff at St. Francis Parish School maintain integrity in all areas of their profession. A mutual respect and unity among staff, parents, parish and community is foremost. It is the school’s responsibility to work in partnership with parents as the primary educators and as role models for their children. - 17 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School School - Wide Learning Expectations St. Francis School Students are: 1. Active Christian Leaders who: ♦ Respect and appreciate nature, and all people as part of God’s creation; ♦ Make good, moral choices; and ♦ Live and practice their Catholic/Christian faith. As evidenced by: Showing respect toward everyone and everything in nature; Using critical thinking skills and moral decision making to determine right from wrong; Learning the teachings of the Catholic Church and living it through their actions and prayers; Growing in Faith; and Providing service to others. 2. Life long learners who: ♦ Have a foundation in all subject areas and possess organizational skills; ♦ Can express thoughts in written and oral form; ♦ Appreciate the pursuit of knowledge; and ♦ Are creative and self-motivated. As evidenced by: Proficiency in academic subjects and consistent use of organizational skills; Ability to complete written assignments and give oral presentations; Self-motivation to complete projects and assignments; and Exploring and researching unknown topics. 3. Problem Solvers who: ♦ Have the ability to set objectives and accomplish goals; ♦ Use critical thinking and analytical skills; ♦ Are able to adapt to change; and ♦ Make responsible decisions. As evidenced by: Setting short term goals in order to reach long term goals; Attempts to resolve conflict on their own using critical thinking skills; and Willingness to be open minded and - 18 - flexible. ©2013 St. Francis Parish School School - Wide Learning Expectations .…(continued) 4. Responsible Citizens who: ♦ Are aware that actions have consequences; ♦ Have a sense of integrity; and ♦ Exhibit good sportsmanship and citizenship. As evidenced by: Following set rules in and out of the classroom; Avoiding arguments; Showing responsibility and team work; Always trying their best; and Showing humility in all actions. - 19 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section III Policies & Procedures This section contains the most updated policies and procedures, but not all of the policies of St. Francis Parish School. - 20 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School the previous year is “probationary” status. ADMISSIONS admitted on a Right of Admission Immunizations The Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fresno reserve the right to admit, re-admit, or deny admission to any student. All new students will be on probation for their first year of school. No Catholic student resident in the Diocese shall be denied access to a Catholic School solely on the basis of inability to pay full tuition. Prior to admission, students who are transferring from another school are required to submit a letter of recommendation from the principal and/or present or most recent past teacher; submit test scores and a copy of the most recent report card; and take the required testing administered by St. Francis Parish School. A birth certificate, baptismal certificate, social security number, and health record are required of parents at the time of registration. Information shall be entered on the permanent record when verified by the above official documents. Conditional/Probationary Admission Each Catholic school may decide to admit or place a student on a “conditional” or “probationary” basis if the school has reason to believe any of the following apply: Student history of poor attendance; Student history of poor academic performance; An educational or physical disability which makes demands on the school which the school cannot meet; Student history of poor disciplinary record; Student history of emotional instability; or Mid-year transfer. A student entering St. Francis Parish School who did not attend St Francis Parish School Students, including Kindergarten, are required to be immunized according to current California state law or the student WILL NOT be admitted. In accordance with California state law, students must have the following immunizations before being allowed to enter school: U Childcare entry: 4 Dtap, 3 Hepatitis, 3 polio; 1 MMR and 1 HIB meningitis (both of which must be on or after the first (1st) birthday; and 1 Chickenpox immunization; U Kindergarten entry: 5 Dtap, 4 Polio, 3 Hepatitis, 2 MMR (both of these must be on or after the first (1st) birthday, and 1 Chickenpox immunization; and U 7th grade entry: Tdap booster (new California law), Dtap booster, 3 Hepatitis and 2 MMR. A Chickenpox immunization is recommended if the child has not already had the disease. IF THE CHILD IS NOT CURRENT WITH HIS/HER IMMUNIZATIONS, STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT HE/SHE NOT BE PERMITTED ENTRY TO SCHOOL UNTIL THE PARENT CAN SHOW PROOF THAT THE STUDENT HAS COMPLETED ALL IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICIES Harassment is “Illegal” St. Francis Parish School is committed to providing a Christian learning environment that is free from any form of harassment. St. Francis Parish School will treat allegations of harassment seriously and will review and investigate such allegations in a prompt, confidential, and thorough manner (Diocesan policies 3710 & 3711). - 21 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Suspected Child Abuse Reporting FINANCIAL POLICIES St. Francis Parish School and its employees comply with the reporting requirements of California’s Child Abuse Reporting Law. St. Francis Parish School will immediately report any known or reasonable suspected incidents of child abuse to a child protection agency (Diocesan policy 4710). Tuition and Fees St. Francis Parish School, mindful of its primary mission as an effective instrument for the education ministry of the Church and to be witness of the love of Christ for all, admits students of any race, color and national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally made available to students at school. St. Francis Parish School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin, age, sex, or disability in the administration of education policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. Tuition is the moral and contractual responsibility of parents/guardians for students attending St. Francis Parish School. Tuition may be paid in one (1) annual payment, or on an eleven (11) month payment plan starting July 1st with the last payment due May 1st. Families should expect a modest increase in tuition annually. Upon being accepted to St. Francis Parish School, a non-refundable Registration Fee of $450 and a Parent Participation Fee of $250 is charged each year to each parent account. All ten (10) hours for the Parent Participation Fee must be worked to receive the $250 credit. No partial credit will be awarded. Parent Participation Hours are to be worked at a designated/approved Parish or School function and are to be signed-off by the supervisor of the activity. Tuition Assistance Likewise, St. Francis Parish School does not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of sex, age, disability, race, color and national and/or ethnic origin. Student Threats St. Francis Parish School personnel will respond seriously to all threats to inflict serious harm to self or others including practical jokes or offhanded comments, or bullying. The school staff will respond to any statements or behaviors of a threatening nature, any behaviors by individuals that might pose a threat to the well-being of students, staff, or others, and any weapon possession including look-alike weapons (toy knives or guns). St. Francis Parish School has an obligation to keep the school safe and will respond seriously to all threats. If a student/parent is aware of a threatening situation, report it immediately to the school administration. The school believes that a Catholic education is one of the most important investments a family can make in a child's future and is grateful to the thousands of families who have made significant sacrifices to send their children to St. Francis Parish School. The school also understands that many families financial situation makes it difficult for them to afford the full cost of tuition. It is for those families that the St. Francis Tuition Assistance program exists. In order to apply for tuition assistance, families must complete the FAIR application form, provide a copy of their Federal Tax Return and submit their request by April, 15th each families demonstrated need, financial information and their students’ academic records are evaluated. If a family is approved for tuition assistance, they will receive an award letter stating the amount of aid granted. These letters are mailed in June. - 22 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Tuition Assistance is awarded for one (1) academic year at a time. No family will receive more than 33% of their tuition expense. If aid is granted, it will be applied toward tuition only. In order to remain on tuition assistance, a family must comply with the following: Must re-apply for tuition assistance each year. Tuition payments must be made in full by the tenth of each month; Child(ren) must maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA; Child(ren) must maintain regular attendance and have no more than three (3) unexcused tardies for the year; Presence at work parties and fundraisers is required (family will be notified by phone or mail of the dates); Must pay all registration fees; Students who are placed on academic or disciplinary probation may not receive financial assistance. Method of Payment Tuition payments can be paid in eleven (11) monthly payments and are due on the first (1st) of each month, beginning in July and ending in May. Tuition and fee payments received after the tenth (10th) of the month or not paid in full are considered delinquent and will incur a $25 late fee. Any check made to the school that is returned for non-sufficient funds (NSF) will be charged a $25 fee for each occurrence. After two (2) NSF notices families must pay tuition and all other accounts by money order, cash, Cashier Check, Band Card or VISA/ ATM cards for the remainder of the school year. The first tuition payment must be received prior to the start of school. Tuition payments may be automatically deducted from the Band Card, VISA/ATM card on the first (1st) of each month. Please contact the school office for details. Students will not be permitted to attend class if tuition is thirty (30) days delinquent. Volunteer Personnel (reference Diocesan policy #3400) By order of the U.S. Council of Bishops and the Diocese of Fresno, all volunteers at St. Francis Parish School and St. Francis Church must have completed Safe Environment training, been fingerprinted, and receive a clear criminal history before they can volunteer at the school and/or Church, including driving for field trips. Certificate of completion of Safe Environment training must be on file in the office. After the initial training the volunteer must have a refresher course every two (2) years to remain valid. Restricted Access to Campus and School Events (reference Diocesan policy # 4790) To protect the safety and security of students, school employee, and volunteers, all Catholic school campuses and their scheduled offcampus events and activities are closed to the public. The school, with or without cause, may at its sole discretion invite parents, guardians, relatives and friends of students and others to come on campus or attend off-campus school events and activities. A. The school shall reasonably attempt to control and monitor all visitors to campus during instructional time. All classroom visits must be pre-approved by the school administrator. All visitors must sign-in/out at the front desk and must wear a Visitor Pass while on campus. B. The school, with or without cause, may deny or limit a student’s parent entry to the campus, or to off-campus events or activities. C. Registered sex offenders listed on the Megan’s Law web site, who are disclosed to the school, are prohibited from coming on campus unless accompanied and supervised at all times by a school administrator or designated school employee. - 23 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Traffic, Parking and Pick-up 8. All cars must be legally parked for a child to enter or exit the vehicle. Traffic at the beginning of the school day, end of the school day, evening and daytime activities is extremely heavy and dangerous in the residential area of the school. Therefore the following rules apply: 1. Cars must be parked legally before a student may enter or exit the automobile. Students and parents must observe the traffic laws including jay walking. 2. Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 are picked up or dropped on Pine Street Drive Gate. Families in carpools or multiple children, the grade of the oldest child prevails with the exception of Kindergarten. 3. Grades K through 3 (kindergarten child prevails) are picked up or dropped off in the “A” Street parking lot. If you want to walk and meet your child, you must be in a parking spot. If you chose to use the loading zone, you must remain in your car and move forward in an orderly manner. Students must be accompanied by an adult to enter the parking lot. 4. Preschool students are picked up or dropped off on Pine Street or Dracena and must be signed out and in. 5. During performances, sporting activities or after school and evening meetings or fundraisers, parents and guests are requested to fill all parking lot spaces before parking on the street. If you must park on the street, please do so legally being careful not to obstruct driveways, corners, and garbage pick-up. Please make sure your children are respectful of our neighbors’ property, and do not obstruct traffic flow. No blocked intersections. 6. No U-turns in school zone. 7. No jay walking. You MUST use the crosswalk. AIR QUALITY POLICY Air Quality Policy In order to protect the health of its students, St. Francis Parish School monitors projected local air quality to identify periods of unhealthy air quality as determined by the San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District. During periods of unhealthy air quality (AGI of 151 and above), the school may limit afternoon strenuous outdoor activities for the entire school population including Physical Education, athletic events, or practices. Certain sensitive students with medically identified respiratory difficulties or diseases (such as asthma) may need to refrain from vigorous activities even before the general school population limits its activities. If you believe your child qualifies as an air quality “sensitive” student, please request an “Air Quality Sensitive Group Form” from the school office. - 24 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section IV Academic Curriculum - 25 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School RELIGIOUS EDUCATION study of other appropriate subjects. Confession The Church recognizes the primacy of parents in the education of their children especially regarding the teaching of human sexuality. Since human sexuality is incorporated into any comprehensive Family Life Program, parents who do not wish their children to participate during the genitally explicit segment of the Family Life or AIDS instructional program shall petition the principal in writing to remove their child(ren) during such instruction. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is occasionally available at the school (see school calendar for dates and times.) Students and their families are encouraged to avail themselves of the sacrament weekly at St. Francis Church as scheduled in the parish bulletin. Mass and Adoration Weekly School Masses: All-school masses are scheduled weekly on Friday in the cafeteria. These masses are prepared by different classes and attended by Grades K-8. Parents are welcome to join in celebrating Mass. (See School Calendar for dates and times.) Parents who do request withdrawal of their children from the genitally explicit or AIDS instructional program segments of the Family Life program shall be notified when these segments are taught. They will also be encouraged to provide their children with human sexuality education within the family setting. Formal uniform is the required wear for Mass when held at the Church. Students who are not dressed in formal uniform for Mass will lose their lunch recess. The school shall notify parents at the beginning of each school year what options they have regarding the Family Life Program. Sacramental Preparation: Reconciliation Parents shall be encouraged by the school to be actively involved in the formation, implementation, and evaluation of the Family Life Program. Holy Eucharist/ Second Grade-Students will be prepared for Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist (First Holy Communion) through the Second Grade Religion curriculum. New Third Graders Without Sacramental Preparation will be referred to the St. Francis Church Religious Education Program Director. Note: Parents are required to attend designated religious educational sessions. Christian Families Christian Families is a part of the religious education and community service requirements of St. Francis Parish School. Under the direction of Msgr. Harrison the eighth grade students lead a balanced cross section of the schools population (family) in various religious discussions and volunteer services. Christian Families is modeled after the families created by the early Christians. Chris- Family Life Program Family Life education is an essential part of the curriculum of a Catholic school. Each school shall implement a comprehensive Family Life Program that shall be taught as either a separate curriculum or integrated into the - 26 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School tian Families meet monthly on Mondays. ACADEMIC PROGRAM record of daily homework assignments. Students are expected to complete homework at the designated time. Grading Homework Guidelines: Grades 3-8 are assigned grades using the following percentage scale: 100-95% = A 94-90% = A89-86% = B+ 85-83% = B 82-80% = B79-76% = C+ 75-73% = C 72-70% = C69-68% = D+ 67-65% = D 64-60% = D59-Below = F Grade Points Grade points are assigned as follows: A = 4.0 A- = 3.7 B+ = 3.3 B = 3.0 B- = 2.7 C+ = 2.3 C = 2.0 C- = 1.7 D+ = 1.3 D = 1.0 D- = 0.7 Kindergarten: 10-minutes daily - minimum Grade 1: 20–minutes daily – minimum Grade 2: 30–minutes daily – minimum Grades 3 & 4: 30–45 minutes daily – min. Grade 5: 45–60 minutes daily – minimum Grades 6, 7, & 8: 90 minutes daily – min. (Times are based on a child with average ability .) Make-up Work: Assignments issued during an illness or family emergency are due upon the student’s return. For assigned work, teachers have the discretion to give one (1) day extra for each day of absence. Work assigned on a day of absence may be picked-up at 3:15 p.m. that day in the front office. Teachers must be notified of prearranged absences so that work may be assigned. Planned absences of three (3) or more days must have work request submitted a week prior to the absences. These assignments are due upon return to class. Teachers will not accept any homework that has been sent via fax. Jr. High Homework Guidelines Homework No homework will be assigned on Fridays with the exception of class work that is not completed during the class period. Every effort will be made to minimize homework and provide time to work in class. This can be accomplished if the student attends to the task at hand and does not waste time. If a school week ends on Thursday due to a scheduled inservice or holiday, homework may be assigned on Thursday. Purpose: Homework is assigned at the discretion of the teacher and is used to supplement and reinforce the concepts taught in the classroom. Students in grades 3-8 are issued an assignment pad on which to keep an accurate No tests will be administered on Mondays or on a Tuesday following a Monday national holiday. This policy excludes quizzes, which can be administered any day of the week. Exception to this would be a test that had been Quarter grade point averages for grades 3-8 are computed on a unit times grade point value. (Example: A grade of “B+” has a point value of 3.3 multiplied by the unit value of the particular course. Example: 3 units equals 9.9 grade points.) - 27 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School scheduled and had to be cancelled due to an emergency at school or if the class only meets on Monday ( Art, Spanish, Music). If two (2) tests are administered on one (1) day, there may also be a vocabulary test as well. Students will be given assignments after each lesson as review and reinforcement only. No new concepts will be introduced in a homework assignment. Exceptions will be for research projects where students must investigate various sources for new information. Junior high students are expected to complete homework on Parent Mandatory Meeting nights. Teachers will honor occasions where students are expected to attend an event by not assigning homework or minimizing homework on these nights. These events include church and school sponsored family activities such as Fiesta or Advent Services, Sports Awards, and Open House. No more than one (1) long-term assignment will be due on any given day. An assignment that requires three (3) or more days to complete is considered long term. This excludes the Science Fair Project and calendar projects for grade 5. Late homework brought to school will not be delivered to a student, it will be placed in the teachers mail box if it is brought to the office after school begins. It is the teacher’s discretion to mark it late or not. Honor Roll grade must be Good or Outstanding.) Students achieving Pastor’s honor roll for three (3) quarters during the school year, including the last quarter of the previous year at St. Francis, are invited to attend the Pastor’s Honor Roll Luncheon during Spring Quarter. Honor Roll Disqualification: Any grade of ‘D’ or ‘F’ will disqualify a student from the Honor Roll, Principal’s Honor Roll or Pastor’s Honor Roll. Grades below a ‘G’ (Good) in conduct will disqualify a student for the Principal’s Honor Roll and Pastor’s Honor Roll. Testing Annual Iowa A Test of Basic Skills: Testing of students in Grade 2-8 takes place in the fall quarter. The purpose of the testing program is to evaluate school curriculum and the growth of students so that they may be better assisted in the learning process. Tests are machine scored. Results are released to parent/ guardians at fall parent conferences and placed in the student’s permanent file. Textbooks Textbooks are issued by the school. From time to time, some subject areas may require the individual purchase of supplemental material and/or books incidental to a particular subject area. Textbook Fines Students in grades 4-8 with the requisite grade point average are eligible for Honor Roll, Principal’s Honor Roll and Pastor’s Honor Roll recognition. Grade 3 is eligible second semester. Textbooks must be covered at all times and kept in good condition. Replacement of issued textbooks which are written-in, lost, damaged or destroyed, is the responsibility of the student. Parents will be billed by the school for the replacement of or extent of damage incurred. Honor Roll: 3.00 – 3.49 GPA Graduation and Promotion Requirement Principal’s Honor Roll: 3.50 – 3.74 Conduct grade must be Satisfactory, Good or Outstanding.) Pastor’s Honor Roll: 3.75 – 4.0+ (Conduct Students must have mastered a minimum of 75% of the content standards of their grade level to be promoted unconditionally to the next grade level. - 28 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Conditional Promotion Students who have not mastered 75% of the content standards for their grade, but have mastered 50% or more, may be Conditionally Promoted to the next grade level provided they complete the summer school requirements as designated by St. Francis Parish School. area are on a two (2) hour delay, St. Francis will also be on a two (2) hour delay. On Fog Delay days the campus opens at 9:30 a.m. and school starts at 9:50 a.m. Day Care is available from 6:45 to 9:50 a.m. for $5. per Fog Delay. If students are dropped off before 9:30 a.m. they will be sent to Day Care and the parent’s account will be billed $5.50. Retention Early Release Policy Students who have not mastered 50% of the content standards for their grade level may be retained, asked to withdraw, or be recommended to transfer depending on their educational needs. At all times the educational needs of the child are the school’s primary concern. Campus Policy-when campus is open Regular school days the campus is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Minimum school days the campus is open from 7:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Early Release Days the campus is open from 7:30 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. Unexcused Absences A student is considered “unexcused” if he/she is absent from school for any reason other than illness or family emergencies. On rare occasions, the principal and teacher may determine an exception to this policy. Fog Delay Information Fog delay announcements are on the following radio and television stations: KGET – 17 / NBC (crawl on the bottom of the screen) KERO – 23 / ABC (crawl on the bottom of the screen) KBAK—29 CBS (crawl on the bottom of the screen) KUZZ / FM 107.9 or AM 550 KERN / AM 1410 KLLY / FM 95 KNZR / AM 1560 If it is announced that the Kern High School District or all high schools in the greater Bakersfield Every first Tuesday of the month will be an Early Release for teacher meetings. NO homework club is scheduled for those days. Early Release is also scheduled for teacher in -services. On an “Early Release Day” classes will be shortened to forty (40) minutes per period and there will only be a ten-minute play recess after lunch rather than the normal twenty (20) minutes. There will be no afternoon recesses. Day Care will be available until 6:00 p.m. Early Dismissal Any person wishing to contact or take a student from class during a school day will first report to the school office to sign-out the student. One (1) day’s prior notice is requested. No teacher shall release a pupil to any unauthorized person who calls at the school to pickup a child unless the release is verified by a note or telephone call from the child’s parent or guardian. Tardy Policy When students arrive at school in the morning they are expected to enter campus through the Pine Street gate or the Parking Lot “A” gate. These two (2) exterior gates will be opened at 7:20 a.m. and will be closed at 7:50 a.m. After these gates are closed/locked students are not permitted to enter campus by going through the Daycare or the Preschool. Should students arrive at school after these gates are locked, they are to enter campus through the front school entrance (2516 Palm - 29 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Street) and “check-in” with the front Office Staff. Students who pass through the front office between 7:50 a.m. and before the 1st Period bell rings at 8:00 a.m. will be directed by Office Staff to go to their 1st period class. Students who pass through the front school office after the 8:00 a.m. 1st period bell rings will be assigned a Tardy. The decision as to whether the Tardy is Excused or Unexcused will be at the discretion of the front Office Staff. Students will be issued an Admit Slip that will indicate if the Tardy is Excused or Unexcused. Attendance procedures typically handled in the Classroom/Homeroom (i.e., lunch order, etc.) MUST be completed as the student passes through the front school office. If the Tardy student is in the 6th, 7th, or 8th grade class, the student must present the Admit Slip to the Student’s Homeroom teacher before the student moves to his/her scheduled class. First (1st) period teachers are not responsible for assigning a first (1st) period Tardy. That task will be the responsibility of the front Office Staff. Excused Tardy Students who have a scheduled doctor/dental appointment(s) will typically be excused; however, these students must present a note from the doctor or dentist to the front Office Staff. Other than for the above reasons, the Front Office staff will have discretion as to whether the Tardy is Excused or Unexcused. Unexcused Tardy Late to School in the Morning. Students who are determined to be Tardy arriving at school in the morning (after 8:00 AM) will have the Unexcused Tardy recorded in the Attendance Register and also recorded on the student’s Report Card. Front Office Staff will make this determination and enter accordingly into the records. A maximum of three (3) Unexcused Tardies per academic year is permitted. The fourth (4th) Unexcused Tardy will result in a $50 fine that will be added to the family tuition account. The fifth (5th) and each subsequent Unexcused Tardy will result in a fine of $100 added to the family tuition account and the family will be informed by letter or telephone or email and will be required to schedule an appointment with Msgr. Harrison. Action taken at this meeting is at the discretion of Msgr. Harrison and could also include: ineligibility for financial assistance; ineligibility for After School Sports, Student Government or other school activeties that are not academically based. Additionally, the sanction may include additional fines, Suspension, Recommended Transfer or Expulsion. Unpaid Tardy fines will be treated as unpaid Tuition. Please refer to the Family Manual, Financial Policies. NOTE: In responding to the sanction for more than three (3) Unexcused Tardies as listed above, and in lieu of the monetary fine for the fourth (4th) Unexcused Tardy, the parent/student may opt to fulfill the sanction by having the student attend Saturday Morning Work Detail (4 hours) at the school or parish church. For a fifth (5th) and subsequent Unexcused Tardy, the parent will be required to schedule an appointment with Msgr. Harrison which could result in Saturday Morning Work detail (4 hours) and/or additional sanctions as listed above. Internet Use All students using the internet at school are required to sign a technology agreement and have it co-signed by their parents. Use of St. Francis School name, pictures of students or staff at St. Francis School, pictures of students in St. Francis School uniform, videos taken at St. Francis School activities or any other form of media that would identify students or staff at St. Francis School are strictly prohibited for use on the internet unless written permission is given by the school and the - 30 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School student's parents. Students who violate this policy or the technology agreement will be disciplined. St. Francis School strongly recommends that no student at St. Francis Parish School have a personal internet site. Eligibility and Ineligibility In order for a student to be eligible for a after School Sports, Student Government, Academic Decathlon, dances, and any other after school activities that are not academically based, the student cannot have two (2) D’s or an F respectively. In order to be reinstated to the activity the student must present a Friday Report that shows all grades two (2) weeks after the progress report or report card. Student Government In order to be eligible for Student Government the student must maintain a 3.0 GPA and earn a “Good” or “Excellent” in conduct in all subjects, and must demonstrate consistent attendance, and not have more than twelve (12) unexcused absences. While a member of Student Government the student must maintain a 3.0 or better GPA and have a “Good” or “ Excellent” in conduct. Failure to complete these requirements may result in removal of the student from Student Government. COMMUNICATION Parent Conferences The school year is divided into four (4) quarters. The report cards are not designed to be the sole communication between school and home. Therefore, parent-teacher conferences are scheduled in the Fall and Spring. Additional conferences may be requested throughout the school year. of each quarter. Any student receiving less than a “C” in a subject will receive a Progress Report. Progress Reports will be sent home electronically. Parents may request a Friday report on Monday if their students are on probation, in addition to Progress Reports. These are sent home on Friday or on a bi-weekly basis. Junior High students are responsible for getting their Friday reports from teachers and must have them signed by the parent and returned to the teacher. Report Cards Report cards are sent home at the end of each quarter. In the fall and spring a parent conference is held at report card time. Parents are encouraged to contact teachers anytime during the school year via voice mail or e-mail. Keeping abreast of the progress of the child is a joint responsibility of parent and teacher. Appointments can be made through the teacher by calling (661) 326-7955 and then asking for the teacher's extension. Please do not call the teachers at home or during instructional time. “Oldest & Only” The administration will send home a monthly envelope by way of the “Oldest or Only” student once a month. Please ask your child for this communication to keep updated. The O & O is the vehicle of communication with the school, PTO and School Board. Please read it faithfully. All material sent home in the O & O envelopes or on the internet MUST be cleared with the administration. Extended Day Care Progress Reports Child care is available all school days from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. St. Francis Day Care is structured to provide a safe and caring environment for the child. The program includes snack time, quiet time for homework, crafts and outdoor play. Progress Reports are sent home in the middle Extended Day Care will NOT be available on - 31 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School school days before Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter or on the last day of school before summer vacation. If the child is not picked up by 12:20 p.m. you will be charged $1.00 for every minute you are late. For the safety of the child, if the child is not picked-up by 3:20 p.m. or after a sport or activity, the child will be sent to Day Care. When you pick-up the child from Day Care, someone must come inside and sign-out the child. You will be billed for this time at a minimum of one (1) hour. If you do not sign-out, you may be billed until the center closes at 6:00 p.m. Anyone picking-up a child up after 6:00 p.m. will pay a late fee of $1.00 per minute, to be paid at the time of pick-up, and paid directly to the teachers on duty that day. Students who attend Day Care are required to obey all school rules and show respect for the Day Care director and aides. Students who refuse to follow school rules will be issued time outs, detentions, suspended and/or expelled from Day Care. CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE Discipline St. Francis School Administration is not responsible for the behavior of a St. Francis student at a private or public event held after school hours, on a weekend or a holiday. The exception to this policy would be if the student’s behavior violates the teaching of the church and/or the action reflects negatively on the school’s reputation. In such cases a disciplinary action may be warranted. Parents are the primary educators of their children and are responsible for the behavior of their children at private parties and functions. DIOCEAN POLICY # 2400 DISPUTE RESOLUTION AT THE DIOCESAN LEVEL Disputes often arise in school due to misunderstandings, differences in judgment, opposing interpretations of school policy, or alleged inequalities in the relationship between and among students, parents, teachers, and the principal. All parties involved in a dispute are expected to manifest good faith in their efforts to resolve disputes by maintaining an atmosphere of mutual understanding, confidentiality, and Christian charity. To Resolve Disputes Step One: Disputes shall be presented within ten (10) school days of the incident that caused the dispute to the person most directly responsible for the matter involved in the dispute. For, example, a parent complaint regarding a teacher’s homework policies should be taken directly by the parent to the teacher for resolution. Step Two: Disputes concerning school policy or unresolved disputes concerning school personnel shall be referred within ten (10) school days of the incident, that caused the dispute or within ten (10) school days of the presentation described in Step One above, to the principal for his/her review and decision. If the dispute is concerning an employee, the principal shall advise the employee of the nature of the complaint. The employee shall be given ample opportunity for explanation, comment, and presentation of facts as he/she sees them. The principal shall conclude his/her review of the dispute and render his/her decision within ten (10) schools days of the referral described in this Step. Step Three: If the dispute cannot be resolved at Step Two, the complaining party with in ten (10) school day the principal’s decision in Step Two, may present the dispute to the Pastor (Rector for diocesan high schools) for his review and decision. The Pastor/Rector shall conclude his review of the dispute and render his decision within ten (10) school days of the referral to him descried in this Step. - 32 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Step Four: Diocesan Review: If the dispute cannot be resolved at Step Three, any party of the dispute, with in ten (10) school days of the Pastor’s/Rector’s decision at Step Three, may petition the Superintendent of Catholic School in writing for his/her review of the dispute. The Superintendent, at his/her sole discretion, may decide to review or not review the dispute in question. If the Superintendent chooses to review the dispute, he/she shall tender an advisory recommendation to the Pastor/Rector in writing within ten (10) school days of receiving the written petition unless the superintendent determines that additional time is required to adequately investigate and resolve the dispute. Normally, the school Pastor’s/Rector’s decision in the final ruling on a dispute. The Parent is to understand that the above procedure/protocol will be strictly enforced. Procedures to be Followed at the School should a Parent Disagree with the Disciplinary Resolution Should a parent have a concern with the discipline/sanction assigned by a teacher, or other concerns with what is happening in the instructional setting, the parent (student) is to initially schedule a conference with the teacher. Should the parent be uncomfortable in meeting with the teacher, the parent is to contact the principal who in turn will schedule a conference at a time when the parent (student), teacher and principal can meet. Should the parent (student) initially choose to meet with the teacher and should the parent not be comfortable with the resolution, the parent is to contact the principal to schedule a conference with the parent (student), teacher and principal. Should the parent not accept the resolution from this meeting, the parent may request a conference with Msgr. Harrison. Should the parent not accept the resolution offered by Msgr. Harrison the parent may then appeal to the Diocese of Fresno, Superintendent of Catholic Schools. The parent is to understand that the above procedure/protocol will be strictly enforced. The parent/student is to understand that the teacher may impose a sanction(s) for inappropriate behavior! This DOES NOT preclude the possibility that the administration/ principal may also impose additional sanctions, given the severity of the offense and/or the administration/principal having knowledge of other behavioral infractions on the part of the student. Should a teacher impose a sanction(s) for inappropriate behavior, the sanction will be served when the teacher indicates. Should extenuating circumstances exist, every effort will be made between the teacher and student to serve the sanction at another agreed upon time. As stated above, should this behavioral situation warrant being brought to the attention of the principal/administration, the parent/student will be notified by email and/or a telephone call as soon as a decision has been reached. Given unforeseen circumstances, the normal time period to contact the parent would be no later than then next school day. Discipline Sanctions Inappropriate behavior will result in the following sanctions: Detentions: The types of Detention when served are Morning Recess, Lunch-Time Recess, After-School and Saturday. For any of these Detentions, the teacher is expected to inform (e-mail or written note) the Principal/ Administration about the incident and the Detention assigned; the teacher will issue the detention to the student to be signed by the parent and returned to the teacher. A CONDUCT REFERRAL WILL NOT BE SENT TO THE PARENT. Morning Recess and Lunchtime Recess Detentions: A student will be assigned a Morning Recess or a Lunchtime Recess Detention a maximum of two (2) times a quarter. For any subsequent detention(s) the student will serve an After-School Detention. The Principal/ - 33 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Administration will notify the parent in writing (e-mail) if the student will be serving an After-School Detention and the student, upon returning to school, is to contact each teacher and arrange for the above to be completed. After-School Detention: (After-School Detention applies to ONLY grades 4 – 8). AfterSchool Detentions are scheduled each Wednesday afternoon from 3:10 – 4:00 PM. Students who participate in After-School Tutoring will attend Tutoring in lieu of the AfterSchool Detention. However, a student who is assigned an After-School Detention and who is also in After-School Tutoring will serve two (2) Lunch-Time Detentions is lieu of the After-School Detention. An unexcused absence from a scheduled After-School Detention will result in a make-up detention and the student will be issued an additional After-School Detention. The pick-up area for a student serving an After-School Detention will be at the “A” Street parking lot gate. If the pick-up is late the student will be sent to Daycare. General Behavioral Expectations Conduct Referrals: In the event of a gross infraction of school rules/policy the student will receive a Conduct Referral. The administration will contact the parent by phone or e– mail regarding the incident and the punishment assigned. Suspension and Expulsion: Behavior deemed unacceptable by the principal/administration, including but not limited to: willful disobedience, open defiance of a teacher’s authority, physical or verbal intimidation, bullying, fighting, vandalism, harassment, theft; and the use of profane or obscene language, alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, is cause for Suspension and possible Expulsion subject to approval by Msgr. Harrison. Bringing a weapon(s) to school is cause for immediate Suspension or Expulsion. (Diocesan Policy 4911, 4940, 4941, 4950, and 4951) NOTE: During any period of Suspension in which the student is not permitted to attend class, the student will be permitted to makeup any assignments, tests, projects, etc., missed during the time of the Suspension; Students are expected to: Observe good order on campus and at school sponsored events; Be diligent in their study and complete all assigned work; Be respectful to teachers, school personnel, students and others; Obey the regulations established by the school; Arrive at school before the Tardy bell dressed in the appropriate school uniform. The following is a list of most of the more common daily-implemented school rules and expectations. This list is not exhaustive. Violations of any of these rules will result in an appropriate sanction, such as a Detention. A student is not to be on school grounds unsupervised before 7:30 a.m. or after 3:20 p.m. unless the student is with a teacher or parent. If a student is observed on campus before or after the above hours, the student will be taken to Day Care. This includes frequent and lengthy waiting at the campus entry gates. No running on the concrete areas on campus between classrooms and the Cafeteria area. No food on any playground area. Food and drink are only permitted under the covered area of the Cafeteria. Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, heelies and roller blades are not to be ridden on the school grounds. Gum and sunflower seeds are not permitted on the school grounds. If a student needs to use the telephone the student must obtain a pass from the teacher and then use the telephone in the School Office. A student is not to leave the classroom without a pass or permission from the - 34 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School ⇒ ⇒ ⇒ teacher. St. Francis Parish School campus is a closed campus. A student may not leave the school grounds during school hours unless the student has a note from the parent and the student is signed “IN and OUT” by a designated adult in the School Office. A student who participates in After-School activities is not permitted to leave campus before, during or after the activity unless the parent accompanies the student or the school accompanies the student. A student who is observed completing an assignment for another subject area during another specific subject matter instructional time (without the consent of the teacher) will have the paper/assignment removed by the supervising teacher. Cheating (plagiarism) on homework, tests, reports or other assigned subject matter assignments will result in the following sanctions: First Offense: A score of “0” on the assignment and one (1) in-school detention. Second Offense: A score of “0” on the assignment and two (2) in school Detentions. Third Offense: A score of “0” on the assignment, two (2) days Suspension, and a conference with the Principal regarding a Recommended Transfer or Expulsion. NOTE: During any period of Suspension in which the student is not permitted to attend class, the student will be permitted to makeup any assignments, tests, projects, etc., missed during the time of the Suspension; and, the student, upon returning to school, is to contact the teachers and arrange for the above to be completed. No cell phones, pagers or I pods are permitted on campus during school hours or during sanctioned school events. If a cell phone or electronic device is confiscated the device will be taken to the School Office, the parent will be notified to pick-up the device, and a fine of $50 will be assessed for the first (1st) offense, a $75 fine for the second (2nd) offense and a $100 fine for the third (3rd) offense. No Tolerance Policy The No Tolerance Policy will be enforced for behavior that will not be tolerated and a disciplinary sanction will be issued. The sanction could be a Detention, a Suspension, a Recommended Transfer, or possibly an Expulsion depending on the gravity of the behavior. Such inappropriate behavior includes but is not limited to: Fighting or excessively repeated rough physical activity; Inappropriate use of the restrooms; Matches, firecrackers, weapons and any other dangerous objects are not permitted on campus at any time; Use of profanity; Bullying, harassment, hazing or verbal/ physical threats; Inappropriate touching of same or opposite sex; and Action/behavior by a student at a school sanctioned activity off-campus that reflects poorly on St. Francis Parish School. Playground Rules: The following is a list of, but not all, the expectations when students are on the playground. Respect our Neighbors---Students are to stay at least three (3) feet away from the fence bordering the school grounds. Throwing an object over the fence may result in disciplinary action. During recess, before school and after school, students are not to be on the playground side of the yellow line unless instructed by an adult. Only one (1) student on the slide at any time. Students must slide on their bottom. Swings may be used only in the forwardback motion; one (1) student on a swing at any time. Students may not jump-out of the swing and students waiting for an available swing are to stand in front of the swing(s). There is no running on the concrete between classrooms, under the Cafeteria can- - 35 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School opy or around the bathrooms. Kindergarten through eighth (8th) grade students may not play in the Preschool area. Walking or sitting on top of playground equipment is not permitted Good sportsmanship, following game rules and including all students who want to play, is expected of students on the playground. There is absolutely NO physical contact on the playground (fighting, pushing, tackling, tripping, etc.); NO inappropriate touching of a sexual nature of the same or opposite sex; and NO unacceptable display of affection. No personal playground equipment or sand toys may be brought to school. There is NO throwing of sand, bark, rocks, dirt, etc. at each other or on playground equipment. Leaving School Grounds: A student is not permitted to leave the school grounds during school hours without permission from the school and written authorization from the parent or guardian. This applies to students involved in After School sports, choir, tutorial sessions and dances. St. Francis Parish School accepts NO responsibility for any student who leaves the campus without permission. The parent, guardian or authorized person is to pick-up the student upon dismissal from school or a school sponsored activity. Damage to School Property: Replacement costs, commensurate to the damage incurred, will be assessed for mutilating books, desks, and/or other school property. There could also be a disciplinary sanction imposed. DRESS CODE/UNIFORM All school uniforms must be clean and in good repair at all times; and, must be properly fitted throughout the entire school year. Formal Uniform Formal dress uniform is worn whenever students attend Mass at St. Francis Church, are on field trips and when representing the school at all competitions. Shorts, skorts, pants for girls and sweatshirts for girls or boys are NOT part of the formal uniform. Girls: Formal dress uniform for girls is a jumper/skirt, polo shirt, sweater, socks and shoes. Boys: Formal dress for boys is the long pant, polo shirt, sweater, socks and shoes. Pant may be worn with a brown or black belt. School Uniform Girls: Kindergarten - Grade 5 Uniform---Mills black watch plaid jumper is the uniform (Fifth grade girls may wear Mills black watch skirt.) Skirt length must be no more than four (4) inches above the knee when in a kneeling position. White long or short sleeve polo shirt or Mills dark green Vneck, cardigan or vest sweater is acceptable. Mills green fleece jacket or vest, or a St. Francis jacket is acceptable. Socks---White, black or navy ankle cuffed socks or knee socks; or white, black or navy tights are permitted if they cover the ankle. Tennis socks are not permitted because tennis socks do not cover the ankle. Shoes---Only closed heel shoes (tennis shoes, oxfords, loafers) are permitted. NO van slipons, ballet flats, high-top shoes or boots are permitted. NO roller blade tennis shoes, heelies, backless shoes or open toe shoes are permitted. Tennis shoes should not be a visual distraction. For example, no flashing lights, sequins, mirrors, etc. - 36 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Boys: Kindergarten - Grade 5 socks are not permitted because tennis socks do not cover the ankle. Uniform---Boys will wear the Mills navy twill or corduroy slack with a braided belt (black or brown) and a white polo shirt (long or short sleeve). A Mills dark green V-neck, cardigan or vest sweater is permitted. A Mills green fleece jacket, vest or a St Francis jacket is permitted. Socks---White, black or navy ankle cuffed socks or knee socks are permitted. Tennis socks are not permitted because tennis socks do not cover the ankle. Shoes---Only closed heel shoes (tennis shoes, oxfords, loafers) are permitted. NO van slipons, ballet flats, high-top shoes or boots are permitted. NO roller blade tennis shoes, heelies, backless shoes or open toe shoes are permitted. Tennis shoes should not be a visual distraction. For example, no flashing lights, sequins, mirrors, etc. Uniform Options Girls: Kindergarten - Grade 5 Shoes---Only closed heel shoes (tennis shoes, oxfords, loafers) are permitted. NO van slipons, ballet flats, high-top shoes or boots are permitted. NO roller blade tennis shoes, heelies, backless shoes or open toe shoes are permitted. Tennis shoes should not be a visual distraction. For example, no flashing lights, sequins, mirrors, etc. Girls: Grades Six - Eight August - Last Day of November and March 1st May: Girls may wear Mills khaki walking shorts or Mills Khaki two-in-one skort with a St. Francis green logo sweatshirt or all-weather jacket with NO writing on it. Mills khaki twill pants or Mills khaki corduroy pant with a white long sleeve turtleneck may be worn under the sweater or sweatshirt (with pants) but may not be worn alone. Boys: Grades Six - Eight Uniform---Mills dark green polo shirt (long or short sleeve) and Mills Khaki twill or khaki corduroy pant with a black or brown braided belt is the required uniform. Mills dark green V-neck, cardigan or vest sweater, a Mills green fleece jacket or vest or a St. Francis jacket are permitted. Socks---White, black or navy ankle cuffed socks or knee socks are permitted. Tennis August - Last Day of November and March 1st - May: Girls may wear Mills navy walking shorts, Mills two-in-one skort, St. Francis green logo sweatshirt or all-weather jacket with NO writing on it. Mills navy blue twill pants or Mills navy blue corduroy pants with a white long sleeve turtle neck may be worn under the sweater or sweatshirt (with pants) but may not be worn alone. Boys: Kindergarten - Grade 5 August - Last Day of November and March 1st - May: Boys may wear navy walking shorts, St. Francis green logo sweat shirt or an all-weather jacket with NO writing on it. Mills navy blue twill pant or Mills navy blue corduroy pant with a white long-sleeve turtle neck may be worn under the sweater or sweatshirt (with pants). Girls: Grades Six - Eight August - Last Day of November and March 1st - May: Girls may wear Mills khaki walking shorts or Mills Khaki two-in-one skort with a St. Francis green logo sweatshirt or all-weather jacket with NO writing on it. Mills khaki twill pants or Mills khaki corduroy pant with a white long sleeve turtleneck may be worn under the sweater or sweatshirt (with pants) but may not be worn alone. - 37 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Boys: Grades Six - Eight August - Last Day of November and March 1st - May: Boys may wear Mills khaki walking shorts with a St. Francis green logo sweatshirt or all-weather jacket with NO writing on it. A Mills long sleeve dark green polo shirt or a white long sleeve turtleneck may be worn under the sweater or sweatshirt (with pants). Additional Dress Expectations No make-up may be worn. No hairpieces, falls, wigs or hair extensions. Hair accessories are to be “understated” and coordinated with the color of the uniform. Shoelaces are to be tied with the lace bow on the outside of the shoe. No long underwear, printed or colored t-shirts under the uniform shirt. No leg warmers. No writing on hands or body parts. No boots, high top tennis shoes or high heal shoes. No finger nail polish or fake finger nails. No excessive hair gel or spiked hair. No beards or facial hair. Boys hair length may be no longer than the tops of the ears and the top of the collar. Hair may not touch the eye brows. Side burns cut at mid-ear. Girls may wear post earrings no larger than a dime and not dangling. A religious necklace or bracelet, a watch and one ring per child may be worn. Boy Scout and Girl Scout uniforms may be worn on the day of their respective meetings. EMERGENCY DRILLS Emergency drills are practiced on a regular basis. They consist of the following: Fire drills—practiced monthly. Earthquake— practiced bi-annually. Lockdown —practiced bi-annually. In the case of an emergency evacuation, the school will evacuate to St. Francis Parish Church Hall. GENERAL INFORMATION Hot Lunch Program Free Dress Days Free Dress in reality is not “free” dress but an administrative approved deviation from the normal uniform dress. Free Dress is a privilege and a student who abuses the privilege will lose the privilege of Free Dress for the remainder of the school year. Free Dress may be worn on designated days as announced by the administration and can be described as clothes “appropriate for Sunday Mass.” shorts, bare midriffs, tank or halter tops, hats or jewelry may be worn. Skirt length is NO shorter than four (4) inches above the knee while kneeling. Short length is to the end of the fingertips when hands are extended down the side of the short. Waistband is at the natural/normal waistline of the student. Accessories No make-up may be worn. No sweats, torn pants, baggy pants, short shorts, long low shorts, bike Hot lunches are available for all students. Monthly menus are published in “O & O” and also posted on www.stfran.org/sfs. Lunches may be purchased in the School Office before school or after school. To do this, parents may call the School Office and MUST HAVE A CREDIT CARD NUMBER ON FILE. Lunch prices are: $2.50 for Preschool and Kindergarten and $3.00 for grades one (1) through eight (8). Should the student not have lunch credit at the school or cash to purchase a daily lunch, the - 38 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School student will be offered a hot lunch (which will be charged to the family tuition account) or offered a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (which the student will not be charged to the family tuition account. EVERY STUDENT WILL BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO EAT LUNCH. Students who bring their lunch to school must do so in the morning when they arrive at school. LUNCHES WILL NOT BE RECEIVED AT THE SCHOOL OFFICE AFTER SCHOOL BEGINS. The parent is welcome to bring a lunch for the child and have lunch with the child in the Cafeteria. The parent IS NOT permitted to bring the lunch at lunchtime, drop the lunch with the child in the Cafeteria, and then leave the school campus. Additionally, the parent IS NOT permitted to bring lunch(es) for any student(s), or group of students, other than his/ her child(ren). Parents are welcome to come have lunch with their child, but are not permitted to drop off lunches in the office. Medical Screening Students in selected grade levels are screened for vision and hearing impairment during the school year. Scoliosis testing is part of the 8th grade screening. Medication Medication means any prescription or over-the -counter medication including but not limited to eye, ear and nose drop, medicated ointments or lotions, aspirin, cough drops and antacids. All medications are to be kept in the office. For the school to administer any medication (prescription and non-prescription), the parent must fill-out a waiver for dispensing medication with instruction, and the child’s physician must give written instructions for prescribed medication. These forms may be picked up at the Front Office. All prescription medication must be in the original container with the student’s and doctor’s names and directions clearly marked on a pharmacy label (an individual permission slip must accompany each prescription). All over-the-counter medication must be in the original container with a parent’s special instruction for their individual child. Parents must arrange with the office and their child’s teacher for administration for medication during field trips (an individual permission slip must accompany each prescription). If your child is subject to severe allergic reactions, parents MUST inform the teacher and school office each year. School Pictures/Yearbooks Individual pictures that are used for the yearbook are taken in the fall. All children will receive a yearbook. Cost is included in the registration fee. Student Birthdays Each week all student birthdays falling in that week will be recognized during the Monday morning opening. In order to spiritualize birthdays, the celebration will include a prayer/special blessing, and the singing of Happy Birthday. NO other birthday celebrations will be held during school hours. NO outside refreshments or party favors may be brought to school. If invitations for private parties are handed out at school, the entire class must be invited, or if it is a single sex party, all the boys, or all the girls must be invited. This includes before and after school invitations and invitations given in the parking lot. Balloons and or flowers WILL NOT be delivered to classrooms. Telephone Student’s are not permitted to make or receive - 39 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School phone calls unless directed by a teacher, only for urgent needs. Cell phones are not allowed. Family business and arrangements for social activities must be made at home. Students may not call home for forgotten homework, instruments, PE clothes, or extracurricular activities, etc.. Phones in the classrooms may not be used by students to make outside calls. Students are not allowed to phone home for homework to be delivered. Late homework brought to school or faxed WILL NOT be delivered to a student, it will be placed in the teachers mail box if it is brought to the Front Office after school begins. It is the teacher’s discretion to mark the homework as being late or not late. If it is necessary for a student to call home, the student may use the phone in the school office. Child Abuse St. Francis Parish School is a Child Abuse Awareness School. Faculty and staff are mandated by law to report any suspected child abuse. No Tolerance No tolerance for bullying, physical threats, drugs, firearms, fighting, hazing, and discrimination. A consequence will result. Visitors Parents and all visitors must sign in at the Front Office and if scheduled in a classroom, they may proceed directly to the class. Parents may not enter a classroom simply to speak to a child, to deliver homework, lunches, P.E. clothes, etc. STUDENT SERVICES After School Sports Program The After School Sports Program (ASSP) offers its participants the opportunity to develop appropriate social behaviors by working independently and with others during planned ac- tivities under the leadership of responsible coaches. Its primary purpose is to help students become good and decent Christian citizens in the atmosphere of wholesome competition, and to establish for them the framework for team spirit and fair play. This program is offered to students in grades 5-8. Administration The St. Francis Athletic Director shall be responsible for the administration of the After School Sports Program under the supervision of the Administration. In the absence of the Athletic Director, the Administration shall provide administrative guidance. The duties of the Athletic Director are outlined in the job description, and are to include the following: Soliciting interested students for the ASSP; Coordination of scheduling, rules, etc. with the league and other schools; Recruiting, selecting and instructing coaches and team parents; Organizing the end-of-season sports award ceremonies; Handle finances, i.e., collection of fees/ payments for uniforms, insurance, tournaments, and equipment for team participants; Serving as the school league representative; and Reporting all discipline problems to the Administration. Coaches Once an individual assumes the position of coach, it is necessary that he/she accepts the responsibility which is guided by the philosophy of St. Francis Parish School. Coaches should possess a knowledge of, and a commitment to, Christian values. (See PTO/Volunteer Hours.) Requirements for coaches: Qualified approved adult volunteer with clear Criminal History; - 40 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Basic knowledge of the sport; Leadership ability and skills in working with students; Strive to instill the fundamentals of the sport, teamwork, good sportsmanship in competition, and to promote discipline in an enjoyable atmosphere for each student; Use of controlled substances and alcoholic beverage while supervising students of St. Francis School is strictly prohibited; Fingerprint clearance ; and Safe Environment Training. Team Parent In order to assist the coach with additional duties, each team will require the assistance of an additional adult to serve as the Team Parent. Duties are as follows: Assist the parents in arranging for transportation to games; Arrange a refreshment schedule, a drink after each game; Assist the coach with various duties, such as phone calls to players and printing of information; Help in the organization and preparation with the end of the season party and awards ceremony; Support the team in general; Collect uniforms within a week after the last game; Fingerprint clearance; and Safe Environment training. Responsibilities The After School Sports Program (ASSP) is a direct extension of St. Francis Parish School. The coaches, students, and parents are representatives of the school, and therefore, should conduct themselves accordingly. The ASSP is an extracurricular activity available to students in grades 5-8. Prior to tryouts, each student is required to be academically eligible. Each student is also subject to a twice a quarter academic review and must have a “C” average. A student with two “D’s” or an “F” is ineligible until the grades have been raised to a “C” average or better. Stu- dent's Christian behavior is vitally important, and it is expected to be conveyed in all aspects of the rules and guidelines set by the school and coach. Students participating in the ASSP are not permitted to leave the campus before, during or after the activity until they are picked-up by an adult. If the adult/parent is late for pick-up, the student will be taken to Day Care. Parents and students need to understand that the After School Sports Program is a privilege, not a right, and that they are subject to the responsibilities set forth. Players are responsible to: Conduct themselves in a Christian manner; Follow the instructions of the coach and the school rules; Attend practices and games as scheduled; Contribute towards the unity of the team; Treat members of the team with common courtesy, and avoid making unkind remarks; and Obtain a “C” (2.0) average or better in academics and Christian Conduct. Parents are responsible to instruct their child that he/she should be on his/her best behavior. Behavioral problems may result in the dismissal of the student from the program. Attendance Policy Athletes must attend all practices and games. The athletes are excused if they are absent from school, or have a note from the parent. Athletes may not practice or play in a game, or participate in any extra curricular activity, (oral language, dances, etc.) if student/ athlete was absent or suspended from school that day. Sanctions for an Unexcused Absence: First unexcused absence - warning Second unexcused absence - next game suspension Third unexcused absence- expulsion from - 41 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School team. Three (3) tardies may result in expulsion from the team. Parents are responsible for: Assisting with team transportation provided the Diocesan insurance requirements are on file in the School Office; Keep an automobile insurance form on file in the School Office; Help with refreshments; Being prompt and on time for team transportation and pick-up of child at the end of practice and games. After waiting for 10 minutes, coaches are instructed to escort each remaining student to Day Care at the parent’s expense; Maintaining appropriate conduct and being a good role model for the students; Sign and return all necessary forms; and Stay with your child until the appropriate school authorized person accepts responsibility for him/her. Abusive language is not acceptable. It is expected that referees and coaches will be treated with respect. DO NOT APPROACH THEM BEFORE DURING OR AFTER A GAME TO CRITICIZE THEM. If you have a concern about a coach, put concerns in writing and give to the Athletic Director. Awards At the end of each season there will be an awards assembly to honor the athletes. Athletes will vote for a most inspirational player, most improved player, and most valuable player. Transportation Away Games: Parents will provide transportation to and from the games. Tournaments: Parents will provide transportation to and from their home. Coaches are responsible for: Attending required coaches meetings; Outlining with their players the rules, guidelines, and consequences; Scheduling team practices in accordance with the athletic director; Staying with students until they are pickedup by the authorized person; Selecting most improved and most valuable player utilizing the award guidelines; Suspending participation in a game or practice for violations of players responsibilities; and Conducting a final team meeting within one (1) week after the last game. Sports Objectives - Grades 5-8 The purpose of the St. Francis Parish School sports program is to provide students an opportunity to have competitive experiences and to develop Christian character qualities that are taught in the classroom. Good sportsmanship, Christian character and team player concepts will be stressed at all levels of play. 5th Grade Emphasis: To introduce athletes to competitive games. Good Sportsmanship St. Francis Parish School expects coaches, athletes, parents, and fans to demonstrate appropriate conduct and attitudes: Pick-up after daily practices: For the safety of your child, if your child is not picked-up after a practice, sport or activity, he/she will be sent to DayCare at the parent’s expense. Parents will sign an agreement to follow the good sportsmanship policy; and Goal: To provide an opportunity for each player to develop good sportsmanship, become a team player and improve skill level. ALL PLAYERS - 42 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School WILL PLAY EACH GAME ALTHOUGH NOT NECESSARILY AN EQUAL AMOUNT OF TIME. 6th Grade Emphasis: To learn advanced game skills. Goal: To provide an opportunity for athletes to continue to develop good sportsmanship, be a team player, and improve skill level. NOT ALL PLAYERS WILL PLAY AN EQUAL AMOUNT OF TIME. Jr. High Emphasis: To compete on as high a level as possible within league guidelines as well as tournaments, and to prepare for high school sports. Goal: To provide an opportunity for each athlete to continue to develop good sportsmanship, be a team player, and improve skill level. PLAYERS WILL NOT NECESSARILY PLAY THE SAME AMOUNT OF TIME . - 43 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Maps Directions to OLPH & Garces Directions to Heritage Turn left on Chester from StF Right on California Left on Union Ave. Right on Columbus OLPH is located at 124 Columbus For Garces: Turn left on Loma Linda Garces is located at 2800 Loma Linda Turn left on Chester from StF Right on California Left on Mt. Vernon Heritage is located at 2101 Mt. Vernon Ave. Heritage 2101 Mt. Vernon Ave Garces 2800 Loma Linda Mt. Vernon OLPH 124 Columbus Union Ave. Union Ave. Chester Ave. Chester Ave. St. Francis Parish School St. Francis Parish School Directions to Stockdale Christian Turn right on Oak from StF Left on California Stockdale Christian is located at 4901 California Ave. Directions to St. Johns Turn left on Oak from StF Right on Stockdale Hwy. Stockdale Hwy. to Buena Vista Left on Buena Vista School is at 4500 Buena Vista Rd. St. Johns 4500 Buena Vista Rd.. St. Francis Parish School Stockdale Hwy. Oak Stockdale Christian 4901 California St. Francis Parish School - 44 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Direction to OLG From StF going east on Palm St. Turn left on Chester, Right on California. OLG is located at 609 E. California Ave. OLG 609 E. California Ave Union Ave. Chester Ave. St. Francis Parish School Direction to Valley Bible Go south on 99 to Hwy 58 East. Take exit 114 for Mt. Vernon Ave. Turn left onto S. Mt. Vernon Ave. Take the 1st right onto E. Brundage Lane. Hwy 58 Mt. Vernon Ave. Directions to Lakeside Go south on 99 to Hwy 119 Take White Lane West to Old River Left on Old River Rd. School is at 14535 Old River Rd. Valley Bible Fellowship 2300 E. Brundage Lane Lakeside 14535 Old River Rd. White Lane St. Francis Parish School - 45 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section V School Support Groups - 46 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School PARENT/TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO) MANDATORY HOURS The PTO is the school’s official host organization. It is also the fundraising organization for the school. The PTO assists with classroom parties, Fiesta, field trips, Catholic Schools Week, and any other duties assigned by the Pastor and/or Principal. A fee of $250.00 for mandatory hours is charged to each family at registration time. Each family is required to complete ten (10) fundraising hours each year. Hours must be completed before May 31, 2014. Upon completion of hours the $250 fee will be credited to the family tuition account. Hours are credited at $25 per hour up to ten (10) hours. Board Members: Dora Dunlavey, President Tammy Zaninovich, Vice President Ginger Willard, Recording Secretary Kacie Hathaway, Treasurer Michelle Harper, Recording Secretary Alicia Gonzales, Activities Rochelle Anzaldo, Room Parent Coordinator Susie Antongiovanni, Preschool Rep. Nanette Etcheverry, K-2nd Rep. Monica Sacco, 3rd - 5th Rep. Barbara Keenen, 6th - 8th Rep. Tanya Mariani, Hospitality Kristy Wetzel, Past President Patty Brown, Elementary School Rep. Msgr. Craig Harrison, Pastor Sr. Cris Caballero, RSM, Principal Mrs. Diana Othart, Vice Principal Dr. John Ritter, Administrator A parent who serves as a head coach in the After School Athletic Program will receive ten (10) volunteer hours if the coaching meets the following requirement: 1. There are eight (8) or more students on the team; 2. The team practices a minimum of two (2) times a week and the parent coaches the practice; 3. The parent attends and coaches all scheduled games; and 4. The hours are approved by the Athletic Director. At the end of the season the head coach must fill-in the volunteer hours coupon, have it signed by the Athletic Director and give it to the office to receive credit for volunteer hours. Membership — All school families and staff are PTO members. General meetings are held the second Tuesday of the month or as scheduled in the School Calendar. The St. Francis Foundation is a 501C3 nonprofit corporation registered with the State of California. It exists solely to support St. Francis Parish School. Mandatory General Membership Meeting This meeting, for all parents, is held the second Tuesday of the school year. (See School Calendar.) Executive Board Meetings — These meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month in the Teacher’s Lounge. Dates are published in the School Calendar. ST. FRANCIS FOUNDATION Membership: Committed community members Purpose: Administer the Msgr. Leddy Scholarship Fund and raise funds from the community through events and donations. Further Information: Contact Board President, Pat Clark. - 47 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School ST. FRANCIS SCHOOL BOARD St. Francis School Board is an advisory committee that serves at the will of the Pastor. The Board meets monthly and the meetings are open to the public. Dates and times are posted in the bi-monthly newsletter which is distributed through the “Oldest & Only” and the School Calendar. Members are elected by the school community as their respective terms expire. Membership President: Kim Hoffmann Vice-President: Christiane Camou Secretary: Michelle Harper Treasurer: Mitch Wetzel Member: Kent Jackson Member: Chad Hathaway Faculty Rep.: Patty Brown PTO Rep.: Michelle Harper Ex-Officio: Msgr. Craig Harrison, Pastor Ex-Officio: Sr. Cris Caballero, Principal Ex-Officio: Dr. John Rittter, School Administrator - 48 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School 2013-2014 Parent Participation Hours Coupon Name____________________________________________________________ Child_______________________________ Teacher_______________________________ Event: ________Fiesta; _________Golf Tournament; ________Crab Fest; ______StF BBQ. Responsibility:__________________________________________________________________ Date of Volunteer time_____________________________ Hours Worked___________________________ Volunteer’s Signature_________________________________________ Chairperson’s Signature_________________________________________ Hours will only be credited to your account if the chairperson has signed this form. 2013-2014 Parent Participation Hours Coupon Name____________________________________________________________ Child_______________________________ Teacher_______________________________ Event: ________Fiesta; _________Golf Tournament; ________Crab Fest; ______StF BBQ. Responsibility:__________________________________________________________________ Date of Volunteer time_____________________________ Hours Worked___________________________ Volunteer’s Signature_________________________________________ Chairperson’s Signature_________________________________________ Hours will only be credited to your account if the chairperson has signed this form. 2013-2014 Parent Participation Hours Coupon Name____________________________________________________________ Child_______________________________ Teacher_______________________________ Event: ________Fiesta; _________Golf Tournament; ________Crab Fest; ______StF BBQ. Responsibility:__________________________________________________________________ Date of Volunteer time_____________________________ Hours Worked___________________________ Volunteer’s Signature_________________________________________ Chairperson’s Signature_________________________________________ Hours will only be credited to your account if the chairperson has signed this form. - 49 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section VI St. Francis Pre-School - 50 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School ST. FRANCIS PRE-SCHOOL Each child is a very special individual. St. Francis Pre-school believes that childhood is a happy and exciting experience and that Preschool children are intrinsically motivated to explore the world around them. The Pre-school and Day Care staff is licensed by the California Department of Social Services and complies with set standards. St. Francis Pre-school employees are adults who understand child development, and recognize and provide for children’s individual needs. The Pre-school and Day Care Programs are open to any child in the community regardless of race, national origin, religion or ancestry. Philosophy The St. Francis Pre-School Faculty believe that children learn best by exploring areas of interest at an individual pace. With this approach, the child’s in-born potential guides his/her development. Each child is unique with an individual personality and family background. Faculty believe that readiness is not necessarily tied to chronological age and that experience and maturation are the keys for healthy social development, self-esteem and success. Policies and Procedures: Responsibilities of the Parent(s) and Child Pre-school policies require that the parent(s): Send children to school on scheduled days and times; Send children in good health and clean grooming; Encourage a good attitude for learning; Accept responsibility for misbehavior or damage to school property; and Work as a team in the child’s best interest with teachers and staff. Pre-school polices require that the child: Follow school rules; Respect authority of teachers and staff; Arrive at school at the scheduled time; Respect the right and property of others; and Does his/her best to make school a fun and exciting experience. Please refer to the St. Francis Parish School Parent Handbook preceding this section for other information applying to St. Francis Preschool students (Minimum Day Schedules do not apply.) Discipline St. Francis Parish Pre-school takes an assertive approach to discipline. Children are held accountable for their actions. The rules of the school are grounded in the Catholic concern for self and others. Discipline is used to re-shape negative behavior in order to encourage self-control and develop self-esteem. Re-direction will be used when a child is in danger of: Hurting self or others; Disturbing the classroom teaching process; Damaging school or private property; or Degrading or disgracing another child. Children who do not choose to respond to redirection will be given a “time out” period away from the group activity. “Time out” will not exceed ten (10)minutes. If a child exhibits extreme behavioral problems which are disruptive to the program, a conference will be scheduled with the parent (s), teacher and director. After the conference, if the child displays the same behavior and does not improve through specific efforts of the teacher, the child will be asked to withdraw from Pre-school. If a child bites another child, he/she will be sent home for the remainder of the school day. Repeat offenders will be asked to withdraw from Pre-school. - 51 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Dress Code Children are to be sent to school in clean comfortable play clothes. Much of the learning takes place through play. A child is free to explore the environment when wearing durable, easy to clean clothing. Shoes must have closed toes and backs, and must be worn with socks. Students are not allowed to wear sandals, flip-flop shoes, shoes with a heel higher than 3/4”, or boots. St. Francis Parish Pre-school T-shirts will be worn on field trip days. Grooming Code No hair extensions, altering of hair color, streaking, highlighting or dyeing; No gloves of any kind; No hats of any kind; No dread lock or bi-level haircuts or fad haircuts; Hair must be clean and groomed daily; Boys hair length may be no longer than the tops of the ears, the top of the collar, and cannot touch the eyebrows; No excessive hair gel or spiked hair; No hairpieces, falls, wigs, or extensions, etc.; No fingernail polish Financial Policy Fees: Pre-school Registration Fee : $250.00 Note: All fees are non-refundable. If a child becomes ill at school the parent(s) will be called to pick-up the child promptly. If a child has a temperature of 101 degrees or higher, the Pre-school is mandated by the state to remove the child from the facility. Administration of medication while at Preschool is mandated by the state. A parental permission slip must be on file at the Preschool with the director and must include: Name of child; Name of medication; Current dosage; Name of physician; and Parent signature. Children may not attend Pre-school with the following communicable diseases: Flu or Colds Chicken Pox Measles Ring Worm Strep Throat Pink Eye Impetigo Lice Pin Worms Glardiasis Hepatitis A Salmonellosis Scarlet Fever High fevers 101+ Rash Pre-school follows the same financial policy and the same academic calendar as St. Francis Parish School. Pre-School students are not eligible for Tuition Assistance. Illness Children are not to be sent to school if they are not feeling well. If the child will be absent, please call the Pre-school by 8:30 a.m. Volunteers In order to volunteer at Pre-school or drive for a field trip, the volunteers must be twenty -five (25) years of age, have completed the Diocese Safe Environment training, be fingerprinted with a clear criminal history, have a copy of their insurance declaration page, a copy of their driver’s liscence, and current registration on file. Volunteer drivers may only drive St. Francis Pre-school children. Siblings cannot attend field trips. - 52 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section VII Organizational Structure - 53 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School - 54 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School - 55 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Section VIII Facility Maps - 56 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School S t r e e t P i n e StF Day Care House 2601 5th St. - 57Water - Main ©2013 St. Francis Parish School Office Water or Gas Main Shutoff Room 8 Electrical Shut-Off Fire Extinguisher Room 9 Girl's Restroom Room 7 P.E. Music Evacuation Route Room 10 Storage & Boy's Restroom Fire Pull Station Room 11 Kitchen Cafeteri Room 12 Room 6 Room 13 Room 4 Room 14 Room 3 Computer Lab Room 2 Restroo Room 1 Garage Restroo Roo W Room 19 Religious Education Gas Main Shut-Off Room 17 Teacher's Lounge Roo Pre-School Parking Area Palm Street Room 5 Library Playground / Evacuation Area St. Francis Parish School (see detailed Pre-School Map) Pre-School Dracena Street S N Parking Lot StF Fine Arts Building E - 58 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School X:\Parent Handbook\pre-school evacuation map.pub Fire Evacuation Route Fire Pull Station S t r e e P i n e Fire Control Unit Alarm Control Nap Room Bat Bat Mrs. Nolasco/Mrs. Antongio- Storage H a l l w a y Staff Storage Chapel Director’s Office Laundry Kitchen Mrs. Yolanda / Day St. Francis Parish Pre-School Evacuation Area to Playground Mrs. Lenk Mrs. Chaidez Courtyard Play Area Mrs. Johnson’s Play- Mrs. Johnson Dracena Street Communication Gas shut-off W Garage S N E Parking Lot - 59 ©2013 St. Francis Parish School
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