PARENT ‑ STUDENT HANDBOOK SCHOOL

THIS HANDBOOK REPRESENTS THE UNDERSTANDING OF BOTH PARENT AND SCHOOL, ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL IS THEREFORE TO BE VIEWED AS ASSENT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS STATED IN THIS DOCUMENT.

Sacred Heart School is a Catholic, parish-based school serving kindergarten through eighth grade. Our mission is to instill Catholic values and to educate the whole child. The school, in partnership with the parents, creates a learning environment which promotes academic excellence, teaches Catholic faith, builds school community, develops mutual respect and provides service to others.

Primary at Sacred Heart School is our belief in God, our Creator and Father, in Jesus Christ, His Son and our Savior, and in the Holy Spirit, our Sanctifier. We commit ourselves to teaching the truths of the Catholic Faith and to the formation of community, the spread of the Gospel and Christian Ministry to all.

We recognize and affirm the uniqueness of each individual. With this in mind, we strive to include all aspects of holistic development when teaching our students. Our mission to instill Catholic values and to educate the whole child is rooted in teaching that God is loving and kind, in providing religious experiences that enable each individual to grow closer to God, in encouraging each child to discover and utilize his or her God-given talents and in fostering a learning atmosphere that promotes positive self-worth and builds life-long skills.

Sacred Heart School believes that the parents are the primary educators of their children. The pastor, administration, faculty, and staff work in partnership with parents to foster an environment that is conducive to academic learning, that supports the development of Catholic faith and values, and provides a foundation for further education. Our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating environment that meets the academic needs of each child. We offer a challenging curriculum with innovative programs that create opportunities for all children to reach their full potential.

We are committed to teaching that honesty, respect for life, peaceful resolutions, reconciliation and love are traits of Christian living that sustain the teaching of the Gospel and support students in making positive choices in an ever changing world. As members of a Catholic parish community, students must grow and develop as responsible members of society with obligations to respond to the well-being of others. Our desire is that all students value Christ’s presence within themselves. Through Christian service, worship, and a commitment to building community, they will serve God and one another.

STUDENT LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

1. have a personal relationship with Jesus and understand that God loves us unconditionally and forgives us.

INTELLECTUAL

SOCIAL

DEVELOPMENTAL

Adopted 2/04

The school, mindful of its mission to be a witness to the love of Christ for all, admits students regardless of race, color, or national and/or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, sex, or national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies and practices, scholarship programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs, although certain athletic leagues and other programs may limit participation.

While the school does not discriminate against students with special needs, a full range of services may not always be available to them. Decisions concerning the admission and continued enrollment of a student in the school are based upon the student’s emotional, academic and physical abilities and the resources available to the school in meeting the student’s needs.

ATTENDANCE

In order to comply with the provisions of the compulsory attendance law of California a child must attend school every day unless he/she has a reasonable excuse. If a child is going to be absent, parents are expected to phone the school (626-332-7222) in the morning on the day of the absence (or even the night before) and leave a message on X257. If a phone call is not received, the school will call the homes of all absent students each morning to ensure the safety of the students. A written excuse signed by a parent, legal guardian or doctor is required upon return to school. Students with unreported absences are subject to notification of local truant officers. If a student is to be picked up during the school day, the adult must sign the student out in the office. If that student returns to school on the same day, the adult must sign the student back in. This is to insure accurate attendance records. Please be advised that all subjects and grades are important – the school appreciates parents who do their best to schedule medical appointments outside the school day.

If a student is late to school (arriving after 8:00 am), he/she must report to the office for a late slip. A child will be marked tardy until 8:30 am. After that time, it will be considered a morning absence. If a student leaves within 30 minutes of end of the school day an afternoon “left early” will be recorded. This is due to the legality of our attendance registers that must accurately report a student’s presence on campus. Excessive or frequent tardiness will be addressed through a conference with the principal. If the situation persists, the student’s continued attendance at Sacred Heart School will be jeopardized.

Family vacations should be scheduled during school vacations. If a vacation is planned while school is in session, the family should consult with the classroom teacher as well as with the principal prior to the trip. Teachers will not be required to provide work for the student while he/she is away. Work is to be completed upon the student’s return to school.

Students MUST bring a written note to the teacher explaining every absence during the school year. The note must be signed by a parent. THIS POLICY APPLIES EVEN IF A PHONE CALL IS MADE.

The school understands that there may be occasional circumstances which prevent students from arriving to school on time. It is the school’s policy that three tardies for a given student within a given trimester is acceptable. More than three tardies for a given student within a given trimester will result in any or all of the following:

Frequent tardies are disruptive and disrespectful to the class as a whole and to the teacher. In addition, valuable instruction is missed by the child who is tardy. It is strongly encouraged that students arrive to school BEFORE 7:55 so that they have plenty of time to unpack and prepare for the day ahead. The bell at 7:55 is the warning bell that only 5 minutes remain until the official start of the school day. Families are expected to make whatever arrangements/adjustments are necessary to ensure that students are at school on time.

PARKING ON WORKMAN STREET

The Covina Police Department has forbidden our school parents to drop off or pick up children on Workman St. It is unsafe and it is a traffic hazard. Please follow the drop off/pick up procedure.

ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER

It is necessary that the school secretary be notified when there is a change in address or phone number. It is extremely important that emergency information cards can be kept up to date.

Written permission is necessary to include the family's address and/or phone number in the general family list. This permission is given during registration.

RELEASE OF STUDENT DURING CLASS HOURS

No student is permitted to leave the school grounds or to be released from a class without a request written and signed by a parent. Any child who violates this regulation is subject to dismissal from school. The teacher will NOT release the child from class until the parent/guardian is physically present in the office to sign him/her out.

If a child is to be taken off campus during school hours he/she is to be released from the Office ONLY and the person accompanying the child must be identified before leaving the school grounds. The parent or guardian must sign the child out in the school office. In order to release a child from the health room, a release pass must be presented. This will be given to the adult upon signing the child out in the office. If the child returns to school that day, the parent or guardian must sign the child back in. NO PARENTS OR GUARDIANS MAY GO DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOMS DURING SCHOOL HOURS WITHOUT COMING TO THE OFFICE FIRST!

The school phone may be used by students with a telephone pass from the teacher. The phone is only to be used in extreme instances. No phone calls will be allowed for forgotten supplies, homework, books, lunches, PE uniforms, etc.

Our computer lab and classrooms are equipped with Internet access. A permission slip was signed at registration time to allow your child to utilize this tool. At this time at Sacred Heart School, students are not permitted to send or receive e-mail and/or to chat with others online at anytime. Students found “surfing” the web or visiting unauthorized/inappropriate sites will lose their privilege of using the Internet for the remainder of the year. Depending upon the severity of the instance, further disciplinary action may also result. Parents are required to read the Computer Network User Agreement that was signed at registration time and discuss it with their child/ren. Your permission at the bottom of the page, will allow us to include student work and/or pictures on our web page.

Parents and students are reminded that the Internet is to be used as a “resource”. Simply printing out information from the Internet and claiming it as one’s own work is plagiarism. Assignments are to be done in the student’s OWN words. Plagiarism is a crime and will be dealt with sternly.

Parents are strongly advised to monitor internet-related activities of their children. Use of websites such as www.myspace.com and www.facebook.com has become very popular. Students must use caution when giving out personal information to others on the internet. The school will do its best to educate students in grades 5-8 in the area of internet safety. Parents may visit our school’s website to find helpful resources to assist them in keeping their children safe. Derogatory, harassing, or threatening comments made on the internet and involving or directed at students, parents, faculty or staff of the school will place a student’s continuation at Sacred Heart School in jeopardy. The school will take matters of this nature seriously and appropriate action will be taken. Parents are advised to review the acceptable use policy that was signed at registration time and discuss the guidelines for responsible computer use with their children. Any student who is found to be utilizing an unauthorized website such as www.myspace.com on campus will be suspended immediately. Inappropriate use of the Internet will result in a suspension and/or loss of computer privileges at the school.

· Electronic communications systems include, but are not limited to, electronic mail, voice mail, facsimile machines, stand-alone or networked computers, intranets, the Internet/World Wide Web and any other communications systems that may be created in the future.

· Electronic communications devices include, but are not limited to, regular and mobile telephones, computers, laptops, electronic notebooks, audio and video equipment, flash drives, memory sticks, iPods, MP3 players, Blackberries, and other wireless equipment.

· Electronic communications materials include, but are not limited to, DVDs, CDs, laser discs, audio and video-tape, audio and visual recordings, films, microfiche, audio and visual broadcasts, computer operating systems, software programs, electronically stored data and text files, computer applications, e-mails, text messages, instant messages, and all other downloaded, uploaded, retrieved, opened, saved, forwarded, or otherwise accessed or stored content.

2. Electronic Communications Systems, Devices and Materials and Users Covered

· All electronic communications systems, devices and materials whether in a parish, school, or archdiocesan department or office;

· All electronic communications devices and materials taken from parish, school or archdiocesan office for use at home or on the road;

· All personal devices and materials brought from home and used on parish, school or archdiocesan premises during regular business hours;

· All personal devices and materials, regardless of location, that are used in such a manner that the parish, school or archdiocese may be implicated in their use.

· All users of electronic communications systems, devices and materials, including, but not limited to, students, employees, staff, contractors, volunteers, clergy and religious, and their families.

· All systems, devices and materials located in a parish, a school or an archdiocesan office, and all work performed on them, are property of the parish, school or archdiocese. These systems, devices and materials are to be used primarily to conduct official parish, school or archdiocesan business, not personal business.

· With permission from the pastor, principal or other person in charge, individuals may use systems, devices and materials, including access to the Internet, for personal business and web exploration outside regular business hours or during breaks. All users are expected to conform to appropriate content management and web surfing guidelines, whether during or outside regular business hours.

· Parish, school and archdiocesan systems, devices and materials are not private and security cannot be guaranteed. Passwords and user IDs are designed to protect confidential information, not to provide users with personal privacy. User account passwords for systems not controlled by a centralized user directory or authentication system must be on record with the pastor, principal or other person in charge at the parish, school or archdiocesan department.

· Minors may only access the Internet from devices with updated and functioning filters for prohibited content. All obscene materials, child pornography or materials that are otherwise harmful to minors or in violation of this electronic communications policy must be blocked. Before allowing minors to access the Internet, a responsible person must ensure that content filters are “ON.”

· Content filters for minors may NOT be disabled or turned “OFF” without obtaining prior permission from the archdiocesan Applied Technology Department or the person with equivalent authority at the parish or school.

· All files downloaded from the Internet, all computer disks received from outside sources, and all content uploaded from portable memory devices must be scanned with updated/current virus detection software. Immediately report any viruses, tampering or other system breaches to the person in charge at the parish, school or archdiocesan department.

· Parishes, schools and the archdiocese reserve the right to monitor, access, retrieve, read and disclose all content created, sent, received, or stored on parish, school or archdiocesan systems, devices and materials (including connections made and sites visited) to law enforcement officials or others, without prior notice.

4. Guidelines for E-mail correspondence and other electronic communications

· All users of parish, school or archdiocesan communications systems and devices should use care in creating e-mail, text, instant or voice mail messages. Even when a message has been deleted, it may still exist on a backup system, be restored, be printed out, or may have been forwarded to someone else without its creator's knowledge. The contents of e-mail and text messages are the same as other written documentation and cannot be considered private or confidential.

· As with paper records, proper care should be taken in creating and retaining electronic records for future use, reference and disclosure, as applicable.

· Postings to "All Employees," “All Parents” “All Parishioners” and the like on intranets or the Internet or the World Wide Web must be approved by the pastor, principal or other person in charge at the parish, school or archdiocesan department before they are sent out.

· Use of personal electronic communications devices and materials during regular business hours should be kept to a minimum and limited mainly to emergencies.

Users of parish, school or archdiocesan electronic communication systems, devices or materials and users of personal devices and materials on parish, school or archdiocesan premises, during normal business hours or under circumstances when the parish, school or archdiocese may become implicated in the use, may not:

· Violate any federal, state or local laws, regulations, rules of conduct, codes of ethics, safe environment or any educational rules.

· Post or distribute personal contact information about the user or others without permission or review by a responsible adult person, unless required by the user’s job duties or assigned responsibilities. Personal contact information includes names or screen names; telephone numbers; work, home or school addresses; email addresses and web addresses (URLS) of social networking sites or blogs.

· Post or distribute communications or pictures which a reasonable person, according to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, would consider to be defamatory, offensive, harassing, disruptive, derogatory or bullying. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual comments or images, racial or ethnic slurs, or other comments or images that would offend someone on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, mental or physical disability, or veteran status.

· Engage in improper fraternizing or socializing between adults and minors. Minors may not agree to meet someone they have met online without their parents’ approval and the presence of a parent at any meeting.

· Engage in pirating or unauthorized distribution (such as “podcasting”) of copyrighted materials, music or film; arrange for the purchase or sale of any drugs, alcohol, or regulated substances and goods; or participate in internet gambling.

· Post chain letters or engage in “spamming” (sending annoying, unnecessary or unsolicited commercial messages); repost a message that was sent privately without permission of the person who sent the message.

· Record any telephone or other conversation without the express permission of the other participants to the conversation except where allowed by law.

· Use electronic communications devices for designing, developing, distributing or storing any works of programming or software unless explicitly required by the duties of the job or assignment;

· Upload, download, view or otherwise transmit copyrighted, trademarked, patented, or indecent material, trade secrets, or other confidential, private, or proprietary information or materials to which the user does not have access rights. Regarding copyrighted materials, certain exceptions are given for educational and liturgical purposes. If in doubt, consult the pastor, principal or other person in charge.

· Damage, alter, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computers or other systems; e.g. use others’ passwords, trespass on others’ folders, work or files.

· Give unauthorized persons access to parish, school or archdiocesan systems, provide access to confidential information, or otherwise jeopardize the security of the electronic communications systems (e.g. by unauthorized use or disclosure of passwords).

· Transmit confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information unless the transmission falls within the scope of the user’s job duties or assignment by a responsible person.

· Introduce a virus, attempt to breach system security or tamper with a system.

· Alter, without authorization, a start up screen or the desktop, or install applications that will subvert these functions.

· Allow any minor to access the Internet on school communications devices before a responsible adult has checked to insure that active filtering of prohibited materials is enabled.

· Use electronic communications devices or systems to transmit any radio frequency signal that is not permitted and/or licensed by the Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) or that would violate FCC rules or policies.

Violations of this policy, including breaches of confidentiality or security, may result in suspension of electronic communication privileges, confiscation of any electronic communication device or materials, and disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, removal from parish or school activities, or other appropriate disciplinary action.

BOOKS AND BOOK BAGS

In order that books provided to each child are kept in good condition, books are to be kept covered for protection. Any type of paper covering is acceptable, including fabric book covers. CONTACT PAPER IS NOT AN ACCEPTABLE BOOK COVER MATERIAL. The covering is not to be taped to the original book covers. Books are to be protected by taking them to and from school in a book bag. Students are not allowed to mark in the hard covered books and are responsible for the condition of their assigned books. If the books are accidentally damaged, the damage should be reported immediately to the teacher. The school reserves the right to charge any student for damage to books and equipment.

FACULTY MEETINGS

HEALTH REGULATIONS

If a student needs medication either for a few days or over an extended period of time, and it must be given during school hours, an “Administration of Medication During School Hours” form must be requested from the school health room. This form can also be obtained on our web page. Physician/health care provider will write directions on the form. It must be signed and dated.

Medications must be delivered by the parents or guardian to the health room aide in the original labeled prescription bottle, together with the Medication form signed by the health care provider and parent/guardian.

Students carrying inhalers must have a Physician/health care provider’s release on file stating that he/she may have it with him/her while at school or at a school activity.

Only under these conditions may any medicine be given at school. For your convenience, a copy of the medication permission form has been included at the end of this handbook. This form can also be obtained on the school website at www.shs.cc. Parents may copy it as needed.

All students must be properly immunized in accordance with the State of California guidelines before admission to Sacred Heart School. Students who have been absent because of communicable disease MUST have a permit from the doctor for re-admittance to school.

Students may not “hang out” in the health room. Only those students with an illness or injury are to be in the health room. Students who do not follow this rule will be issued a detention.

All students arriving to school before 7:30 a.m. MUST report directly to the auditorium for supervision. This includes junior high students. Morning care is available from 7:00-7:30 a.m. daily and is provided free of charge as a service to our working families. PLEASE NOTE THAT STUDENTS MAY NOT BE ON CAMPUS BEFORE 7:00 AM – THERE IS NO SUPERVISION AT THAT TIME!

AFTER SCHOOL DAY CARE

Registration for this program may be made through the school Office. The school will not offer after school day care on minimum days. Likewise at other times during the year, such as conferences and opening day of the school musical, we will be unable to offer after school day care. Parents will be notified well in advance when day care will be unavailable.

DISMISSAL

Child/ren not involved in a supervised activity or not enrolled in the Day Care Program must be picked up promptly at dismissal time. Sacred Heart School will not be responsible for the care and welfare of children who remain unsupervised after school. Students remaining at 3:00 (2:00 on Fridays) will be placed in Day Care and a fee of $12.00 per day or any portion thereof will be charged. All children going home by car are to remain in the painted car line area until their assigned driver picks them up. Children who walk home are to leave by the front gate by the school office. Those students who ride a bike to school should walk their bikes from the school grounds. BIKES SHOULD BE WALKED, NOT RIDDEN, WHILE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS. STUDENTS MAY NOT BE ON THE PLAYGROUND AFTER SCHOOL HOURS UNLESS A PARENT IS PRESENT ON THE PLAYGROUND TO SUPERVISE HIM/HER AT ALL TIMES.

STUDENTS MAY NOT WAIT TO BE PICKED UP AT CAVANAGH HALL OR IN THE CHURCH PARKING LOT. THERE IS NO SUPERVISION IN THAT AREA AND IT IS UNSAFE FOR STUDENTS TO BE THERE UNSUPERVISED.

Field trips are planned to enrich the curriculum. They are considered a privilege and therefore, at the time of the trip, parents must complete a written permission slip which requests that their child participates in the outing and gives the school the authority to obtain medical attention for the child if the need arises. The school reserves the right to deny permission to attend the trip to any student who shows that they have not consistently demonstrated appropriate conduct and acceptable effort in all areas of the curriculum. Chaperones for field trips will be determined by classroom teachers.

Parent/guardian volunteers driving students in their own cars must be at least 25 years of age, have a clean driving record for the past three years, a valid Class C driver’s license and current, valid California automobile insurance with limits of at least $100,000/300,000. Each vehicle must have individual seat belts for each student. A copy of the parent/guardian’s driver’s license and insurance declaration page must be kept on file at the school.

No “wheels” may be ridden on campus at any time. Students who utilize these means to get to and from school must refrain from riding on campus. Likewise, “Heelys” or, tennis shoes with wheels in them are not allowed on campus at any time! Any student found to be in violation of this rule is subject to confiscation of the “wheels” and a parent conference with the principal.

LUNCH PROGRAM

Students must bring sack lunches with them in the morning. ALL students who do not have a lunch will be counted for hot lunch. It is the policy of Sacred Heart School that every child will eat lunch every day. Parents will be charged for hot lunches their child/ren receive. Lunches may not be brought to school during the school day. If a child forgets his/her lunch, that child will receive a hot lunch for the day. Fast food may not be brought on campus M-Th. Fridays will be a day of exception. On Fridays, parents may bring their child/ren lunch at lunch time. Parents may bring fast food on Fridays. If a parent is planning to bring lunch on a Friday at lunch time, a written notice to the teacher must be presented in the morning of the same day. If a note is not sent, the child/ren will be signed up for hot lunch and the family will be billed regardless of whether another lunch is brought to school. If a parent plans to bring a lunch to a child on Friday, the lunch time must be observed. NO EXTRA LUNCH TIME WILL BE GIVEN FOR STUDENTS WHO HAVE HAD LUNCHES BROUGHT TO THEM LATE. Lunch begins at 11:20 for Kindergarten, 11:45 for grades 1-4 and 12:00 for grades 5-8. Lunches brought on Friday should be brought to the office and should be labeled with names. Parents may not bring lunches directly to the classroom at any time. No food from bag lunches will be heated in the kitchen. Students do not have access to a microwave.

Hot lunch will be served every full day of school. The cost for hot lunch will be $3.00 per day for grades K-3 and $3.25 per day for grades 4-8. Menus will be sent home monthly. Students order hot lunch on a daily basis. All payments for hot lunch will be made to Happy Lunch NOT to Sacred Heart School. Students may pay daily or may buy a 5, 10 or 20 day lunch card. Students are expected to pay for hot lunch at the time it is received or by means of a lunch card that has been purchased. Students are expected to display good manners while waiting in the hot lunch line and receiving their lunches. Lunchtime behavior will be monitored closely and problems will be brought to the attention of the parents immediately. Persistent poor conduct in the lunch line will result in inability to participate in our hot lunch program.

DRESS CODE STANDARDS/UNIFORM

The proper school uniform must be worn every day unless otherwise directed. If, on occasion, unavoidable circumstances make it necessary to be out of uniform, a note from the parents should be sent to the teacher. (Archdiocesan Handbook, 404)

(Boys Hair) FAD hair styles and dyed, tinted, colored, or highlighted hair are not permitted. Boys' hair should not touch the collar. Shaved heads, steps, or mushroom cuts are not allowed. Boys may not have their hair cut with any less than a #2 blade. Hair should be blended appropriately. If hair is to be “gelled” or “spiked”, hair may NOT BE LONGER THAN 1 ½ INCHES!. Lines and pictures may not be shaved into the hair. If the scalp can be seen, the cut will be considered too short and in violation of the dress code. MESSY HAIRSTYLES ARE NOT PERMITTED AND WILL BE DETERMINED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE PRINCIPAL. BOYS HAIR MUST BE CUT ABOVE THE EARS AND BANGS MAY NOT BE BELOW THE EYEBROW. HAIR MUST BE CUT ABOVE SHIRT COLLAR. BOYS MUST BE CLEAN SHAVEN. It is expected that parents will instruct boys to shave when it becomes appropriate in accordance with the clean shaven policy.

(Girls Hair) Dyed hair, coloring, tinting, and highlighting is not acceptable. Corn rows and beading will not be permitted. Girls should exercise tasteful judgment in determining hairstyles and accessories.

Use of “sun-in” or other lightening/coloring products is not allowed at any time for boys or girls. The appropriateness of hair cuts/styles will be at the discretion of the principal. 7^th and 8^th grade students who violate this policy will not participate in graduation activities/exercises.

(Jewelry) Boys may not wear earrings or excessive jewelry. Boys may wear a simple neck chain if it has a religious medal or cross on it. Puca shells, beads, thick chains, and other assorted neck adornments may not be worn. Girls may not wear hoop or dangling earrings for safety reasons. Girls may wear simple jewelry, e.g., one pendant at a time, one pair of stud earrings in the lobes ONLY, one bracelet at a time. One ring per hand may be worn. Choker necklaces will not be allowed at any time. No body rings or body piercing is allowed. Spiked jewelry is not allowed. Anklets are not allowed. Judgments regarding the appropriateness of these regulations are at the discretion of the principal.

(Make-Up) Make up is not permitted for any student at Sacred Heart School. Colored nail polish will not be allowed. Lip gloss/chap stick is fine as long as it is clear only. No glitter, sparkle, or color will be allowed. Acrylic/fake fingernails will not be permitted. Nails should be kept neatly filed and shortened at all times.

A student, who comes to school without proper attention having been given to personal neatness, may be sent home or be required to prepare him/herself for school before entering the classroom.

Students may NOT write on their arms, hands, legs, or other parts of the body at any time. This has become a problem, particularly in the upper grades. Students found to be writing on themselves or on others will be subject to disciplinary action.

SACRED HEART UNIFORM

· Plaid jumper (Grades K‑5), plaid skirt (Grades 6‑8), plaid skort (Grades K-8)

· Skirts should be no shorter than three inches above the knee and may NOT be rolled at the waist. Emphasis should be placed on modesty and appropriate length.

· White blouse with jumper (Grades K‑5), round or pointed collar. ( no lace on collars)

· Polo shirt (Grades 6‑8) white, light blue or burgundy WITH LOGO ‑ polo with long sleeves may be worn for cold weather (all polo shirts purchased from School Uniformity.). Must be tucked in.

· White turtle neck pullover may be worn under the blouse during cold weather (Grades K‑5).

· Slacks ‑ navy blue twill (purchased from School Uniformity.). Slacks may not be rolled up. DICKIES ARE NOT CONSIDERED UNIFORM PANTS.

· Shorts ‑ navy blue twill walking shorts (purchased from School Uniformity). May not be shorter than 3 inches above the knee.

· A belt must be worn with shorts and slacks. Belts must be plain and without adornments and may be navy blue or black only.

· Sweaters ‑ burgundy cardigan, vest, V‑neck pullover or dark blue sweatshirt with SCHOOL LOGO (purchased from School Uniformity.)

· Jackets ‑ burgundy jacket, navy jacket with zip hood or navy sweatshirt jacket WITH LOGO (purchased from School Uniformity.)

· Socks ‑ navy blue, burgundy, white, black ‑ knee socks, anklets or tights. Socks may not be less than 2 inches above the shoe. Socks may not be tucked into the shoes.

· Shoes ‑ any combination of white, navy blue and/or black ONLY athletic style with matching ties or Velcro. (VELCRO STRONGLY RECOMMENDED FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN) No canvas or nylon shoes. No platform or thick-soled tennis shoes. Shoes must be laced up appropriately and tied in bows. Laces may be white, navy blue or black. Laces may not be tucked into shoes or tied under shoe tongues.

· PE ‑ red shorts with logo (purchased from School Uniformity.), uniform athletic shoes, white uniform blouse, white T‑shirt or white polo shirt

· Grades K, 1, 2, 3: The PE uniform should be worn to school on PE days. On cold days, IF red sweats are worn, the PE uniform should be worn UNDER the red sweats. Often the day warms up and the children want to take the sweats off because they are too hot.

· Grades 4‑8: During cold weather red sweat pants and shirts may be brought to school to put on for PE

· Pants ‑ navy blue cords or twill (purchased from School Uniformity.) & belt. Pants may not be pinned at the waist or rolled up at the bottom. DICKIES ARE NOT CONSIDERED UNIFORM PANTS.

· Belt-dark solid color (navy or black). The belt is to be plain and without adornments. No long belts will be allowed. The belt should not extend more than 2 inches beyond the buckle. The belt must be worn with pants and shorts.

· Shirt ‑ white, light blue or burgundy polo shirts WITH LOGO ‑ polo with long sleeves may be worn for cold weather (all polo shirts purchased from School Uniformity.) Must be tucked in.

· Shorts ‑ navy blue twill walking shorts (purchased from School Uniformity.) Must be above the knee.

· Sweaters ‑ burgundy cardigan, vest, V‑neck pullover or dark blue sweatshirt with SCHOOL LOGO (purchased from School Uniformity.)

· Jackets ‑ burgundy jacket, navy jacket with zip hood or navy sweatshirt jacket WITH LOGO (purchased from School Uniformity.)

· Socks ‑ navy blue, burgundy, white, black Socks may not be less than 2 inches above the shoe. Socks may not be tucked into shoes. Mid-calf length socks are appropriate. They may be scrunched down. Socks that are excessively long will not be acceptable.

· Shoes ‑ any combination of white, navy blue and/or black ONLY athletic style with matching ties or Velcro. (VELCRO STRONGLY RECOMMENDED FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN) No canvas or nylon shoes. Shoes must be laced up appropriately and tied in bows. Laces may be white, navy blue or black. Laces may not be tucked into shoes or tied under shoe tongues.

· PE ‑ red shorts with logo (purchased from School Uniformity.), uniform athletic shoes, white polo shirt or white T‑shirt

· Grades 4‑8: During cold weather red sweat pants and shirts may be brought to school to put on for PE

A detention will be issued for every three uniform violations in a given trimester. 9 uniform violations within a given trimester will result in a parent conference. PE uniform violations are reflected in grades and not accrued toward detention.

School spirit sweatshirts that have been purchased through the Sacred Heart Booster Club may be worn as part of the uniform for girls and boys.

Free Dress Code

Permitted: Shorts must be the navy blue uniform shorts-no free dress shorts allowed. (The principal may, at her discretion, allow free dress shorts for a school activity. In this instance, an announcement will be made to students.)

T‑shirts in good condition with appropriate design                                                                 Sleeveless shirts must be a minimum of 3 inches in width at the shoulders.
Nice jeans, skirts, dresses, pants, capri pants (must come below the knee)
Shoes and socks (Socks or nylons MUST be worn at all times!)                                        Shoes must be laced according to standard dress code requirement.                                   One pair of stud earrings in the LOBE ONLY (girls ONLY)

ALL BOTTOMS, INCLUDING SKORTS, MUST BE NO MORE THAN 3 INCHES ABOVE THE KNEE.

Not Permitted: Bike shorts, short shorts, stretch pants, and mini‑skirts
T‑shirts with inappropriate designs
Tank, halter‑type, cut‑off tops, spaghetti straps, tight/form fitting shirts
Fad hair styles and colors
Make‑up, sandals, backless shoes, flip flops, baggy, saggy pants or pants that cover the shoes Bra straps showing, Stomach showing
Hats (unless specified by the principal for a special activity or event)

Students who do not conform to free dress code will call parents for a change of clothes. Repeated violation of free dress code will result in loss of privilege for the rest of the year, despite possession of free dress passes.

Identification of Personal Items

All pencil boxes, lunch bags and boxes, book bags, and similar containers must have the student's name and grade on the outside. All wearing apparel must be similarly marked. If all items are clearly marked the owners can be easily found.

BULLETINS

Each family will have a special Archdiocesan envelope in which all school bulletins and important communications will be sent home. The youngest child will deliver the envelope home and should return it the next day. A parent should sign the dated section. This is an indication that the messages have been received. These envelopes will be sent home every other week usually on Wednesdays. Lost envelopes will be replaced for a fee of $1.00. Students will hand carry information that must be sent home in between bulletin envelopes. Anyone wishing to have an announcement placed in the bulletin must use the form in the office to do so. Announcements will be due on the Friday before the bulletin goes out without exception. Late announcements will not be accepted.

Our school will be utilizing the School Reach Instant Parent Contact Program. This program provides the school with an immediate means of contacting parents via phone, text and email. The program will be used as a means of reducing the amount of copying of flyers as well as to make attendance calls and relay important announcements and information. Most importantly, in the event of a crisis or emergency, we will have the ability to deliver information to our parents immediately so that you are well-informed. We will also have the ability to send forms home via email by using the School Reach Document Center option. Again, this will allow us to decrease our copying and thereby save money and time! This service is not designed to be utilized by teachers. It will be used exclusively by the administration.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost articles may be picked up in the Health Room during school hours. All unclaimed articles will be given to charity at the end of the school year. Articles clearly marked with names will be returned to the owners.

MIXED BOY/GIRL PARTIES

The Archdiocesan and Sacred Heart School policies ask that there be no mixed boy/girl parties in grades 6 ‑ 8 until graduation. Mixed parties involving the students of the upper grades, even though these parties are held at home, are especially discouraged. Parents are asked to cooperate with this regulation, even though, strictly speaking, this matter of parental sponsored parties is one primarily involving parental control and not that of the school. The only exception to this rule would be in the instance of a school‑sponsored graduation party, should that be deemed appropriate by the pastor, principal and parents. (Archdiocesan Guidelines 331:3)

SAFETY

The Safety Patrol of Sacred Heart assists in safeguarding the lives of the students. Stationed at various posts on the school grounds, these students have an opportunity to develop qualities of initiative, cooperation and leadership. Drivers, pedestrians, bicycle and car riders are asked to respect and obey the directions of the student patrol and the teachers on duty in the parking lot.

It is NOT APPROPRIATE OR ACCEPTABLE for a parent to approach any child other than his/her own child on campus. Issues that need to be discussed and/or evaluated are to be brought to the principal’s attention so that parents of all children involved may be present for the discussion.

SCHOOL SCHEDULE

· School begins, second bell ‑ 8:00 (students not in classrooms are marked tardy)

· Dismissal ‑ 2:45 ‑ Full day, (2:35 ‑ K); 1:45 ‑ Friday, (1: 35 ‑ K):
12:00 ‑ half day, (11:50 ‑ K)

CURRICULUM

Sacred Heart is a nine-classroom school consisting of grades Kindergarten through Eighth. The curriculum stresses a basic educational program integrated with the Catholic/Christian philosophy and values.

The subject areas include Religion, Reading, Mathematics, English, Science, Health, Social Studies, Computer, Family Life, Spelling, Handwriting, Physical Education, Art and Music.

Classroom teachers are responsible for all subjects taught to the respective grades except for Computer, Music, and Physical Education, and Art (gds. 2-8), Science (gds. 5-8), Reading Lab (gds. 1-4) and Math (gds. 4-8)which are taught by specialty teachers.

The teachers specializing in the various academic areas teach the subject areas for the Junior High Students.

Sacred Heart School prides itself on a tradition of academic excellence. Students are expected to perform at the level of their capability. All assignments are to be completed neatly. Students will be required to re-do any work that is not done neatly and/or does not reflect acceptable effort. Incomplete assignments are a serious matter. Students with consistently incomplete or missing work will be called to a conference with their parents and the principal to determine continued attendance at Sacred Heart School.

The school has contracted with Edline to offer an online component to our EZ Grade Pro grading system. Through Edline, parents of students in grades 5-8 will have the ability to go online to view their children’s grades. This will be done through a password secured portal that is assigned to each child’s parent. Because this is a new system, it will take the faculty some time to get up and running with it. We anticipate this being in full use before the end of Trimester #1. You will be notified when you may begin using this system.

Another feature of Edline is the availability of web lockers for our students. Unlike physical books or removable media devices (floppy disks, CDs or USB devices), Edline Student Web Lockers can’t be forgotten and left at school, and they can’t get stepped on, broken or eaten by the dog. Edline Student Web Lockers provide students with access to their homework and other school files from any computer with internet access.

It is expected that each child completes his/her own work. Students who are found to be copying one another’s work will be disciplined accordingly. Likewise, having materials in sight during a test that contain notes or other relevant information will be considered cheating. It is the policy of Sacred Heart School that both the student doing the copying and the student allowing the other to copy will receive consequences. No credit will be given to either student for the assignment. Repeated incidents will result in a conference to determine further ability to attend Sacred Heart School. Plagiarism is considered cheating and will be dealt with as such.

FAMILY LIFE PROGRAM

The Catholic Church recognizes and has repeatedly affirmed its right and its mission to teach and support the sanctity of marriage and the family. In order to respond to the obligations of educators set forth in Church documents, each school in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles provides a course of instruction in family life that includes positive and prudent education in sexuality. Sacred Heart School is presently using the well established Family Life Program published by Benziger and approved for use by the Superintendent of Catholic Schools. Examination copies are available in the school Office. A permission slip is included in registration materials to allow children to participate in this program.

Sacred Heart School will present a sexual abuse prevention program to our students during the months of April/May. This Self-Protection Program is part of our ongoing effort to help create and maintain a safe environment for children and to protect all children and youth from sexual abuse. As a parent/guardian, you have the right to choose whether your child participates. A permission slip will be sent out at re-registration time for this program. If you have questions about the program, please contact Mrs. April Luchonok at (626)332-7222.

SCHOOL LIBRARY

GUM

Because of the damage it does and the cost of clean‑up, chewing gum on campus is not allowed and is punishable by a $1.00 fine. The third gum offense will result in a detention. Eating candy in the classroom is not allowed unless permission has been given by the teacher. Repeated offenses will result in detention and a phone call home.

Classroom parties will be held at Christmas. This will be done in conjunction with the room parents and with the approval of the principal. Other parties may take place for special occasions with the approval of the principal. There will be no parties allowed for birthdays. If it is your child’s birthday, you may bring a small treat (donuts, chips, cupcakes, etc.) to be passed out at recess time. No lunches may be brought or bought to celebrate birthdays. Teachers may determine whether a treat is excessive or inappropriate. The principal will support the decision of the teacher. Students in grades K-3 may pass out invitations to birthday parties at school IF and ONLY IF EVERY CHILD IN THE CLASS IS INVITED. Students in grades 4-8 must give out invitations outside of school or by mail. Parents of students in grades 6-8 are advised to read the Mixed Boy/Girl Party Policy contained in this handbook. It is NEVER acceptable for parents (room parents included) to be in a classroom without the teacher’s prior consent, even to put treats on children’s desks.

It is permissible for students in grades 1-8 to bring bottled water to school on warm days to consume in the classroom. The water must be in a clear container with a secure cap. ONLY water may be brought. Kindergarten has a water fountain in the classroom and therefore, may not bring water bottles to school.

Students are provided with play equipment from the school. They may not bring personal items to school unless permission has been obtained from the teacher for a special class project. Cell phones and pagers are not allowed. It is recognized that for safety reasons, some parents may wish their child to have a cell phone. In this case, the cell phone must be OFF at all times and remain in the students’ backpack. This rule also applies to daycare. If the cell phone is found to be on or is taken out of the backpack, it will be confiscated by the school. Cell phones will ONLY be released to a parent. Sacred Heart School will accept no responsibility for lost or stolen cell phones. Money should only be brought to purchase lunch or to buy ice cream from A.S.C. or to purchase items from a daycare event. “Amplifiers” that allow a person to overhear conversations are not permitted on campus. The school will not be responsible for the loss or theft of any personal items brought to school. Students who choose to violate this rule will have their item/s confiscated and not returned to them until the end of the school year. IPODS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON CAMPUS EITHER BEFORE, DURING OR AFTERSCHOOL (INCLUDING DAYCARE). THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS.

Toys, Radios, IPods, Cell phones, Games, etc. that are confiscated will be kept in the school office by the principal until a parent can come and retrieve the item.

RELIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT

Students in Grade 2 participate in the Sacramental Preparation Program and are prepared to receive the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation. Any student not in Grade 2 in need of sacramental preparation must attend instruction classes offered by the Parish Religious Education program, as specific catechetical instruction for sacramental preparation is not present in the Archdiocesan approved Religion curriculum for other grades.

The sacrament of Confirmation, in accord with Archdiocesan policy, is reserved for reception by students who have undergone a two-year preparation program while in the ninth and tenth grades. Eligible students are invited to contact the Religious Education Office for further explanation and class dates.

Religious worship is an integral part of a child's growth and a central part of the Catholic identity of the school. On a weekly basis, students in gds. 2-8 attend Mass on Fridays. The entire student body attends Mass on First Fridays and for special celebrations.

As a Catholic school, we recognize that there is no greater opportunity for parent‑directed religious education than presence for Saturday evening/Sunday Mass. As a Parish School, it is understood that weekly Mass attendance provides tremendous opportunity for community building in a Christ‑centered environment. It is therefore essential to our mission as Catholic educators, in partnership with parents in the Catholic education of their children, that families attend Mass on a regular basis. As the primary religious educators of their children, parents are encouraged to consistently follow through on this most serious obligation.

SMALL GROUP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

In order to meet the needs of students in Grades 1, 2, 3, and 4 a Reading Lab has been established. The students attending the Lab receive instruction during the same class period that Reading is taught in the classroom.

Math resource is available for students in grades 4-8. Grades 4-8 will be taught in small groups to support learning and to provide more opportunities for individual assistance.

HOMEWORK

Homework will be assigned to reinforce material already taught to foster habits of independent study. Written homework will not be assigned on weekends or holidays unless make‑up work or long-range assignments are required. Exceptions may be made for special circumstances, i.e., illness, extended absence. A note should be sent to the teacher indicating the nature of the problem.

USUAL TIME ALLOTMENTS: (Times are based on average student performance)
Grades K, 1 & 2: optional, not to exceed one half hour
Grades 3 ‑ 6: not to exceed one hour
Grades 7 & 8: not to exceed two hours

If a student regularly takes more time than indicated above, parents should discuss this with the teacher. Failure to complete homework will be met with the consequence that has been set by each teacher.

CLASSROOM DOORS WILL NOT BE OPENED AFTER SCHOOL HOURS FOR THOSE CHILDREN WHO FORGET MATERIALS INSIDE. ONLY THE CLASSROOM TEACHER MAY ALLOW A STUDENT BACK INTO THE CLASSROOM ONCE SCHOOL HAS BEEN DISMISSED.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are given trimesterly in Grades 1 to 8. A progress report is given to Kindergarten students for the first trimester and report cards are issued for trimesters 2 and 3. Parents and students will receive a mid-trimester progress report for all subjects in grades 2-8. This provides the students with time to improve before the report cards are given out. If a student is absent 15 days within a given trimester, he/she will not receive academic grades for that trimester. The first report card is distributed during the parent‑teacher conference in December. Report card envelopes should be signed and returned to school within the week they are given.

AWARDS

At the end of each trimester the following awards will be presented to those students who have earned recognition in the areas described:

PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL: (Grades 6-8 only) “A’s” in all major subjects with a minimum of “G” in Behavior and Effort; no “D’s”, "P's" or "Nl's" on the report card.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: "A's" and/or "B's" in all major subjects with a minimum of "B" or "G" in Behavior and Effort; no "D's", "P's" or "Nl's" on the report card.

ACADEMIC MERIT AWARD: Given to students who do not qualify for Principal’s Honor Roll or Academic Excellence but have demonstrated a sincere effort in all subjects with a minimum of "B" or "G" in Behavior and Effort and no D’s or NI’s on the report card. This award is given at the discretion of each teacher.

GRADING SCALE

In so far as possible, the administration and faculty of Sacred Heart School are seeking to measure total student performance in class work, homework, evaluative testing performance, class participation, and, where appropriate, work on special projects. Therefore, written grades will be given to keep students and parents aware of performance. We are concerned that students do their best, according to their ability. It is our desire that parents and teachers recognize the necessity of proper communication. Any matter involving a student's work or behavior must be discussed with the teacher first before consulting with the principal.

Letter grades are given in Grades 3 ‑ 8 with the alternate Archdiocesan scale (O,G,S,NI) used in Grade 1 & 2. Grade K has a separate report card.

Sacred Heart School believes that a student’s academic grade should be an accurate reflection of his/her mastery of a given subject. With this in mind, the faculty of Sacred Heart School has examined the mathematical impact of the broad percentage interval of the grade of F. To reinforce our commitment that an academic grade should be a reflection of a student’s master of subject matter, we have adopted a policy as follows:

If a student completes an assignment and demonstrates good effort in doing so, regardless of the percentage earned on the assignment (if it is below a 60), a grade of 60 will be entered into the grade book. The same will be true on a test. If a student earns a score less than 60, a grade of 60 will be entered into the grade book.

***Note, parents may still see grades on assignments below 60 so that they can monitor a child’s progress. Be aware, however, that the entry in the grade book will be a 60.

Students who fail to complete assignments will receive a grade of 50 in the grade book.

Consider the intervals for each grade in the 100 point scale…when it comes to an F, there is a 64 point range of possibility. A zero has a devastating influence, so much so that no matter what the student does, the grade distorts the final grade as a true indicator of mastery.

The policies above were derived from Rick Wormeli’s book, Fair Isn’t Always Equal. The following excerpt from this book should help parents understand the goal of this policy…

“When we turn students’ zeros into 50s or 60s, in our grade books, we are not giving students something for doing nothing. We are adjusting the grade intervals so that any averaging we do is mathematically justified but, even more important, that any grade we determine from the pattern of grades is a valid indicator of mastery.” (p. 137)

Gold Cord honors are given at 8^th grade graduation. The requirements for gold cord apply to 7^th and 8^th grade report cards. Students must meet the following requirements during the 7^th and 8^th grade years to receive this award at graduation:

Participation in one extra-curricular activity in both the 7^th and 8^th grades.

Maintain a “B” Average in the subjects of Reading, Religion, English, Social Studies, Math, and Science and maintain a “B/G” average in conduct and effort for each of the two years.

PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY

All students are expected to achieve at least grade level proficiency in order to merit promotion to the next grade, with teacher observation, evaluation of cumulative report card grades and review of standardized test scores to form the basis of the decision.

A failing grade in Reading in Grades 1 ‑ 3, or failing grades in three major subjects in Grades 4 ‑ 8, may result in retention. The decision to retain a child in the present grade is based on a consideration of the overall welfare of the pupil, made by carefully weighing academic, emotional and social factors. This decision will be made by the principal, after consultation with the classroom teachers and the parents, and after efforts have been made to provide remediation. In the case of a pupil with a severe emotional or learning problem it may be necessary to recognize that the parochial school is not equipped to meet the needs of every student and that, therefore, a recommended transfer might be necessary. (Archdiocesan Guidelines 6103.4)

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Eligibility for participation in activities will be determined at report card and progress report times. The CYO recommends that students maintain a “C” average in academic subjects and Satisfactory Effort and Conduct to eligible for participation in Extra-Curricular Activities. Students will be placed on a 2-week probation during which participation will not be allowed. At the end of two weeks, a re-evaluation will take place. If a student has not shown sufficient improvement, he/she will be removed from the activity. If a student does show sufficient improvement, he/she will be allowed to return to the activity. This same policy will be applied to student council.

Students are provided an opportunity to purchase a yearbook that is published at the end of the school year. Please be advised that the school cannot be held responsible for what other students write in a child’s yearbook. The school does, however, reserve the right to issue consequences for offensive things written in another child’s yearbook. The school will not replace damaged, stolen or defamed yearbooks. The family may choose to purchase a new book if they are so available.

All qualified students may try out for membership on sports teams and in extra-curricular activities. The school is committed to providing everyone a fair chance to participate. Unfortunately, not everyone who tries out can be accepted. The decision of the coach, in conjunction with the athletic director or the decision of the moderator, in consultation with the principal, is final. Ordinarily, the principal will not intervene in non-selection decisions, unless the decision is arbitrary and capricious. Parents are encouraged to help their children understand that not everyone will be selected. Sacred Heart School will emphasize skill development at the “B” team level. Emphasis on competition will be primarily at the “A” level, although both levels compete in games against other schools. Parents are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with our school’s philosophy, mission and SLEs at all times.

It is expected that all coaches abide by the policies set forth by the school in our sports program. All uniforms are to be ordered through the Booster Club and all monies are to come through the school office.

Please be advised that once a student joins a team and a jersey has been ordered, the family is then responsible for full payment of that jersey regardless of whether the student quits the team or is removed for academic or other reasons. Failure to pay for jerseys will result in fees added to the family tuition account.

Parents are encouraged to visit the CYO website at www.cyousa.org to obtain information regarding CYO sports and policies.

The Sacred Heart Booster Club supports all sports programs in our school. This includes the purchase of sports equipment, CYO registration, payment for referees, coaches’ certification, tournaments, etc. Uniforms are NOT covered by the Booster Club. A $35.00 per child, per sport fee is due from each student who is placed on a sports team at the A or B Level. This fee is due immediately upon formal acceptance to a team. Checks may be made payable to Sacred Heart School. Fees are to be sent to the office in an envelope marked appropriately. A student MAY NOT play in a game until the sports fee is received. Applicable fees will be charged for NSF payments. Football players must purchase their own flags from the team coach.

Each member of a sports team will be recognized at one of the end of trimester assemblies for participation in the sport. The Booster Club will provide a pizza lunch at school for any A Level Team that wins its division.

It is our policy that no child is unable to participate in sports due to financial difficulty. If a family has financial strains that prevent the payment of the sports fee, the principal should be contacted so that arrangements can be made.

Each school and religious education program must establish an ongoing safe environment training program for the children at its site. Home-based materials must be provided to all parents to help them understand and support their children's education regarding child sexual abuse. The approved programs include Good-Touch/Bad-Touch® and VIRTUS® Teaching Touching Safety (Mandated September 1, 2006).

Good-Touch/Bad-Touch® is being implemented in Grades K-9 in Catholic elementary schools throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The program is designed to be age-appropriate, to support children in understanding occasions of abuse, and to give them confidence in reporting and asserting themselves in situations where they feel unsafe.

VIRTUS® Teaching Touching Safety is a K-12 program being implemented in religious education programs and Catholic schools. This program is a vehicle through which parents, teachers, catechists and youth ministers give children and young people the tools they need to protect themselves from those who might harm them.

The Archdiocesan Office of Safeguard the Children will work with principals at the schools and Directors of Religious Education in the parishes to establish these programs. During the 2007-2008 year, training is expected to reach most of the children in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Questions concerning this program can be forwarded to Sister Mary Elizabeth Galt, B.V.M., Chancellor, Coordinator of Children's Programs at 213 637 7460.

guidelines for Adults Interacting with Minors at Parish or Parish School Activities or Events

Adults acting in a staff, faculty, ministerial or other paid or volunteer position in the Archdiocese are role models who are called to treat each minor with respect and care. Staff members, faculty or volunteers serving either in a paid or volunteer position need to maintain professional relationships with minors whether on or off parish or parish school locations. Staff members/faculty/volunteers will ensure that minors are properly supervised at all times, thus providing them a safe environment. Minors must be viewed as "restricted individuals" because they are not adults and are not independent.

Code of Conduct for Student Workers/Volunteers

I promise to strictly follow the rules and guidelines in this Code of Conduct. I understand that any action inconsistent with or failure to take action mandated by this Code of Conduct may result in my removal from my volunteer or work assignment.

DISCIPLINE

Discipline in a Catholic School is considered to be an aspect of moral guidance and not a form of punishment. The purpose of discipline is:

1. To educate students to an appreciation of the importance of developing responsibility and self‑control.

Each teacher has established class rules, which include both rewards and consequences. These rules are approved and supported by the principal.

If a child does not respond to positive rewards, a possible consequence would be a one-hour detention. Parents are informed by note that a detention has been issued.

If the child continues to be uncooperative, the teacher then has the right to send that child to the principal's office for further discipline. The principal may choose to contact the parent/guardian in this instance. Suspension from classes is determined at the discretion of the principal. (See below) Suspensions are served at home. All assignments/tests on that day receive a grade of zero and may NOT be made up.

Sacred Heart School has a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY on issues of bullying and harassment. Peer mediators from grades 7 & 8 will be utilized in an attempt to encourage students to accept one another and to resolve differences in a Christian manner. Students who engage in bullying behaviors will be putting their continuation at Sacred Heart School in jeopardy. The principal will deal with matters of this nature.

Any student who is a consistent behavioral problem will be asked to leave Sacred Heart School. Expulsions occur only as a last resort, after consultation with the pastor, principal, teacher, parents and student. Any student who is accused of a felony may, at the discretion of the Principal, be placed on home study until the issue is resolved. The Principal, in consultation with the Pastor, is the final recourse in all-disciplinary matters and can, for just cause, at her discretion waive any disciplinary regulation.

Discipline is an aspect of moral guidance and not a form of punishment. The purpose of discipline is to provide a school climate conducive to learning and one that promotes character development.

Discipline is maintained in a classroom or school when students work cooperatively with the principal, the teachers, and their classmates towards the attainment of the class and school objectives. However, it should be noted that the legitimate interest of the school extends beyond the school day and beyond the school hours.

Reasons for expulsion are, but are not limited to, the following offenses committed by students:

When the reasons for expulsion are purely disciplinary, i.e., when serious moral reasons are not involved, the following steps must be taken:

· A conference must be held with the parents/guardians, student, teacher, and principal present to advise the family that serious action is contemplated unless there is immediate improvement in behavior. In parish schools, the pastor should be notified of the conference, given an opportunity to attend and provided a report of the discussion.

· If there is no improvement in behavior, the final decision will be announced at a second conference attended by the principal, teacher, and parents/guardians. If the parents fail, without cause, to attend the conference, the pastor, principal, and teacher will reach a final decision. The final decision rests with the pastor in consultation with the principal.

· Full credit will be given for all work accomplished by the student up to the moment of expulsion.

A written record of the steps leading to expulsion must be kept on file with copies of all communications and reports.

· In cases involving grave offenses, which may include a violation of criminal law or actions so outrageous as to shock the conscience or behavior of the community, the student is immediately suspended and the initial parent-principal conference is dispensed with.

· The procedure involving cases of grave offenses should be followed when the continued presence of the student at school (even for a short period of time) will, in the reasonable judgment of the principal, pose a serious threat to the health and welfare of another student or students, or faculty members.

· When immediate suspension is imposed, with probable expulsion, while the case is being investigated, the rules and the consequences of the violation should be clearly explained to the student and parents/guardians.

· Only in exceptional cases shall expulsion of an eighth grade student who has been in the school one or more years be allowed.

· If an expulsion is to take place during the last quarter of the school year or during the last semester in the case of an eighth grade student, prior approval of the Department of Catholic Schools is required before the expulsion can take effect.

· If such action is contemplated, approval shall be obtained before the announcement of the final decision to the parents at the meeting described below.

· All expulsions even if they occur at the end of the year, are to be reported by telephone to the elementary supervisor at the Department of Catholic Schools within twenty-four hours. The written report, Notice of Dismissal XE "Notice of Dismissal" , should be mailed promptly to the elementary supervisor.

· The attendance office of the local public school district shall be notified immediately of expulsions. A copy of the Cumulative Student Record should be held until requested.

The principal, in consultation with the pastor, retains the right to make exceptions in cases where mitigating circumstances call for a different response than policy suggests.

The above policies are for the entire year. Each trimester does not represent an opportunity to start over.

Reasons for expulsion, with mitigating circumstance, are grounds for suspension. (Archdiocesan Handbook 412) A notice of suspension will be sent home by the principal. The suspension is to be served AT HOME on the third school day following the date on the suspension notice. This will be without exception or regard to any activities etc. that may be scheduled for that day.

Archdiocese of Los Angeles "Zero Tolerance Policy"

Under the "Zero Tolerance Policy" of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, any person guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor under the age of 18:

Any parent or guardian who is a registered sex offender must contact the principal to discuss the requirements in order to assure compliance with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Zero Tolerance Policy.

As members of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles community, we want to assure that we are in compliance with both Megan's Law and our "Zero Tolerance Policy."

The ABC Program is a means for recognizing students who make positive choices and thereby have a positive impact on our school community. All faculty and staff members may recognize students for their awesome behavior and conduct. The school will provide rewards for students as they reach the various levels of the program.

Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)

Once a family has registered in Sacred Heart School, the parents automatically become members of the Parent Teacher Organization. As members of the PTO all have the opportunity to run for an office on the board and/or vote for new board members every spring. General PTO meetings are held in September, and in February or March. These meetings are designed to keep parents informed regarding varied school matters. Speakers are periodically invited to address the group on matters relating to family life, spiritual development or educational trends and, on occasion, the school children provide entertainment.

The Parent‑Teacher Organization Board, the pastor and the principal feel that attendance at the General PTO meetings is essential for at least one parent from each family. The education of our children is vital and consistent communication between school and parent is of the utmost importance.

The main functions of the Parent Teacher Organization are to raise funds for the school’s current operational expenses, to promote parental support for the school program, and to increase mutual understanding between school and parents. The membership of the parent teacher organization shall include the pastor, the principal, the parents or legal guardians, and the faculty of the school.

Financial operation of a parent teacher organization shall be governed by the regulations for financial operations as found in the Parent Teacher Organization Bylaws.

The membership of the Consultative School Board should include the pastor, principal, parents (no more than one-third of the total membership), alumni parents, parishioners, members of the civic and local business community, and area educators. Under Canon Law and Archdiocesan guidelines (see Administrative Handbook for Bylaws), the members advise the administrative team (pastor and principal) and cannot make decisions binding for the parish education program without the approval of the administrative team (A Primer on Educational Governance in the Catholic Church, the CACE/NABE Governance Task Force, NCEA, 1998).

Annual conferences are held for the distribution of first trimester report cards. There are sign‑up sheets available in advance so parents may choose a convenient time to meet with their child/ren's teacher(s). The first report card will be distributed ONLY at a parent‑teacher conference.

At the end of any other trimester, parents and/or teachers may request a formal conference after school hours. Parent‑teacher conferences are recommended any time a parent or teacher recognizes a need. Informal contact by note, phone, or visit is welcomed with the reminder that arrangements should be make in advance for a visit with the teacher. At no time is any parent to enter the classroom during school hours unless he/she has received clearance from the Office.

A conference before school, without an appointment, is not permitted. The teachers have classroom/student obligations at this time that demand their attention.

All coaches and volunteers must be fingerprinted in order to work with the children. Please see the principal to obtain the necessary paperwork. Coaches must be certified through the CYO training program and through the Virtus Program.

Any parent or other individual wishing to come on campus during the school day must be cleared through the office, sign in, and must pick up a visitor badge. This is for the safety of all children in our care. Parents are encouraged to make appointments to see teachers and/or the principal to ensure that optimum time can be allowed to address the situation. Students are not permitted to have visitors on campus during the school day.

HOURS OF SERVICE

Sacred Heart School is a parent participation school. Because it is a parochial/private institution parent volunteers are needed to help with many projects and programs that lend support to the school.

A "service hour" program, in which all parents are expected to participate, requires forty hours of service to the school for 2 parent families and thirty hours of service for 1-parent families. 13 of the required service hours must be performed in conjunction with the Parish Festival.

Service hours are tabulated each trimester. It is the responsibility of the individual family to see that the service hours are turned in to the Office each trimester. If a family has not contributed to the program, re‑registration privileges may be withdrawn at the discretion of the pastor and the principal. Twenty‑five service hours must be completed by re‑registration time in March.

Participation in organizing/implementing school fund raisers.
Annual Parish Festival

Other DOCUMENTED activities, services or donations directly for or to the school.

Although we would prefer that parents be involved in school activities, if this is not possible, parents may wish to “buy out” their service hours. Remaining hours may be bought out at $25.00 per hour. The thirteen hours reserved for the Parish Festival MAY NOT be bought out. Those who do not complete their mandatory 13 festival hours will be fined $50.00 per hour as stated in the contract signed at registration. VISITORS

Any parent or school group needing the assistance of the maintenance staff must complete a maintenance request form in the office. The form will be evaluated by the principal and if approved, will be forwarded to the maintenance staff. Parents should not approach the custodians directly requesting assistance or service.

EARTHQUAKE/DISASTER PLAN

In the event of a disaster, the school has supplies and procedures to provide safety and protection for the students. Each student purchases a disaster kit upon starting Sacred Heart School. These kits have a shelf life of five years and will be rotated as needed.

4) If possible to come to school, report to the person with the master list who will be located at the small walkthrough gate off the church parking lot (behind the convent).

-Child/ren will be released ONLY to parents or to the authorized persons on the Family Disaster Release Form

-Whoever picks up the child/ren will sign their name and time of pick‑up on the back of the Release Form

6) Parent volunteers may stay to help at the discretion of the person at the security gate.

7) No parent will be permitted on the school grounds (exception #6 above). The children will be brought to the gate when parents or authorized persons arrive.

8) IN THE EVENT PARENTS ARE NOT ABLE TO COME TO THE SCHOOL, THE CHILD/REN WILL BE CARED FOR. AN ADULT WILL STAY WITH THE CHILD/REN FOR AS LONG AS NECESSARY.

REGISTRATION

Registration for those families RETURNING to Sacred Heart, including new siblings, will take place in February or March. Registration for NEW students takes place each spring. A copy of the birth certificate, all sacramental certificates, past grades/report cards/test scores (as applicable) are also necessary. In order to be considered for TUITION BREAK STATUS, it is necessary to have your envelope number from Sacred Heart Church. Families are expected to make an identifiable yearly contribution of $300.00 to Sacred Heart Church in order to qualify for the tuition break status.

Full, non‑refundable, registration fees are due at the time of registration. Places will not be held for families who have not met obligations on time. Please consult the registration contract for requirements regarding registration.

A curriculum enhancement fee is charged at registration time to support curricular goals. This money is directly applied to improving and updating the curriculum in accordance with standards and guidelines as presented by the state of California and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

ADMISSION POLICY

This school gives preference in admission for Catholic students within the parish; secondly to Catholic students outside the parish; thirdly to non-Catholics.

When registration takes place each spring, first priority is given to children of those families already enrolled in the school. Remaining seats are given to those students, whose families are registered, contributing members of Sacred Heart Parish. If there is not enough room to accommodate all requests, the date of parish registration, parish involvement, previous school registration attempts, and academic and social readiness will be considered. All students coming into Kindergarten, First, Second, Third Grades, etc. must have a birthday on or before September 1st of the year of enrollment. No exceptions will be made.

Applications for junior high (grades 7 and 8) are only accepted from students transferring from another Catholic School with a letter of recommendation from the principal.

The students’ interest in receiving a quality, morally based education can be served if students, parents, and school officials work together. Normally, differences between these individuals can be resolved. In some rare instances, however, the school may find it necessary, in its discretion, to require parents/guardians to withdraw their children.

It shall be an express condition of enrollment that the students and parents/guardians shall conform themselves to standards of conduct that are consistent with the Christian principles of the school, as determined by the school in its discretion. These principles include, but are not limited to any policies or procedures set forth in any student/parent handbook of the school.

These Christian principles further include, but are not limited to, the following:

Parents/guardians are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with the school to assist the student in meeting the academic, moral, and behavioral expectations of the school.

Students and parents/guardians may respectfully express their concerns about the school operation and its personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile, or divisive.

The school reserves the right to determine, in its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as to warrant immediate action without warning.

Under normal circumstances a student is not to be deprived of a Catholic education on grounds relating to the actions/attitudes of parents/guardians; it is recognized, however, that a situation could arise in which the uncooperative or disruptive attitude of parents/guardians might so diminish the effectiveness of the education process that continuation of the student in the school may be impossible. Transfer would be recommended.

Tuition is a yearly fee, which is generally divided into eleven installments from August to June. When following this plan, payments are due on the 20^th of each month through FACTS Tuition Management. A $25.00 fee will be added for late/NSF payments.

Alternate tuition plans include payment in full during August (the only way to opt out of the FACTS program) or two payments ‑ one during August and one in January.

Fundraising requirements for each family must be met as stipulated in the registration contract.

A tuition break, which pays the partial cost of educating the child, is given to those who qualify. To qualify, all of the following criteria apply:

· An identifiable regular offering (check w envelope) to Sacred Heart Church (suggested minimum $300 per year) evaluated each July and January.

The obligation to pay tuition and fees on time must be taken seriously. A conference will be requested if payments are repeatedly late. Our staff and creditors must be paid on time, which is not possible if tuition is not received on time.

Eighth Graders will not be allowed to participate in graduation activities or ceremonies if tuition, service hours, fundraising, graduation and late fees are not fully paid by the first week in May; hence, no diploma will be awarded.

If serious financial difficulties are encountered please make an appointment to see the principal immediately.

Families who have not met financial obligations to the school will not be awarded final report cards at the end of the school year until obligations are met.

The school reserves the right to require that payments are made by cash or money order only for those families who submit payments with NSF checks.

No group or individual may utilize school grounds unless permission has been granted by the school or the parish. Use of the softball field by outside teams will be limited to teams coached by school parents or faculty members. A team wishing to use the field must contact the principal prior to use and will be asked to supply the necessary proof of liability insurance for the team. Damage to the field will result in discontinued use and possible fine to cover the expense of repairs. The clay area may not be used by outside teams due to repeated damage and expense to the school. Only the grass areas may be utilized.

This school abides by the provision of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. Any parent wishing to have information sent from the school must provide the school with the self-addressed envelopes and postage to do so. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order. Divorced or separated parents must file a court-certified copy of the custody section of the divorce or separation decree with the principal’s office. This must be done each new school year. The school cannot assume that orders continue to carry over. The school will not be held responsible for failing to honor arrangements that have not been made known in writing.

All threats by students to inflict serious harm to self or others, or to destroy property, will be taken seriously. Whoever hears or becomes aware of any threat made by a student should immediately report it to the pastor, principal, or a teacher. The principal will notify the police and the Department of Catholic School immediately.

The student who has made the threat will be kept in the school office under supervision until the police arrive. The parents/guardians of the student who has made the threat will be notified. Any adult or student who has been identified as the potential victim, or mentioned in writing as a potential victim, will be notified immediately.

The student who has made the threat will be suspended until the investigation by the police and school has been completed.

The decision to re-admit a student who has made a threat will be made by the principal and pastor on a case-by-case basis.

Practical jokes or offhand comments of a threatening nature will be taken seriously and will be investigated. The police may be notified and these actions may result in suspension or removal of a student from school.

A student’s legitimate expectation of privacy in their person and in the personal effects they bring to school must be balanced against the obligation of the school to maintain discipline and to provide a safe environment for the school community. Accordingly, school officials may conduct a search of the student’s person and personal effects based on a reasonable suspicion that the search will disclose evidence that the student is violating or has violated the law or a school rule.

School officials do not need a warrant or a parent’s permission to conduct a search of the student and/or the school’s or a student’s personal property, as long as they have a reasonable suspicion that a law or school rule is being or has been violated. Whenever a school principal conducts a search of a student’s person or personal effects, an adult witness should be present.

Students do not own their lockers or other school property. Lockers are made available to the student by the school. The student does have some expectation of privacy in his/her locker from other students. However, a student may not exclude school officials if the school official has a reasonable suspicion that a law or school rule has been violated.

A student has a greater expectation of privacy concerning his/her backpack, purse, clothing and other personal effects. A school official who finds it necessary to conduct a search of a student’s backpack, purse, clothing or personal effects, must have a reasonable suspicion that the student is violating or has violated a law or school rule. The student’s parents should be notified of any such search.

An alert from trained and certified detector dog is sufficient to allow the school official to have a reasonable suspicion and to conduct a warrantless search of the student’s locker, car or his/her personal property and effects. In addition to this policy on searches by the school, every student is subject to the Archdiocesan and school use and privacy policies concerning cell phones and other electronic devices, whether the devices belong to the school or to the student.

If a student refuses to cooperate in a reasonable search of the school or student property (including electronic devices), the student’s parents and/or the police may be called for assistance or referral.

In the event that any items belonging to a student are confiscated, the principal should document that fact and, when possible, take a photograph of the place where the confiscated object was found and of the object itself. It is also recommended that the school obtain a signature from the student acknowledging that the item was in his or her possession at the time it was found.

CHILD ABUSE REPORTING OBLIGATIONS

In accord with Archdiocesan policy and California law, school staff are obligated under penalty of fine and jail term to report the reasonable suspicion of physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate supervision or sexual abuse and exploitation. In this very serious and legally narrow area, the school will not contact parents in advance of making a report to legal authorities, which would be the procedure followed in most other legal matters. The clear intent of the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above, is to mandate that a report of reasonable suspicion of abuse be made. School staff will make such reports in the best interests of the affected child and do not, once reasonable suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the proper authorities for their investigation and review.

Through the mission of the Archdiocese, our schools strive to serve children with varied learning needs. All educators in Archdiocesan schools follow “Directions for the Inclusion Process in Catholic Schools: Support Team Education Plan Process (STEP) and Minor Adjustment Plan Process (MAP)”. Parents or guardians who feel that their student may need a minor adjustment to enable him/her to participate in the general education curriculum of the school should consult the student’s teacher and principal to determine how best to meet the students needs. Parents or guardians may request the “Disability Discrimination Complaint Review Process” from the principal to address unresolved issues.

Under California law and other relevant laws, a minor student may not work without a work permit issued by the appropriate authority. To obtain a work permit, certain information is required from the student’s school. Information regarding work permits and how to apply is available from the California Department of Education website: www.cde.ca.gov.

The minor/student, after obtaining a promise of employment, must obtain a “Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit”. The minor, the employer and the parent/guardian must each complete their sections and submit the completed application to the school. The school will verify the information entered on the application by the minor and parent/guardian and will also examine the student’s records and consult the teacher to confirm the student’s satisfactory academic achievement to date. The student must then submit the form to the “work permit issuing authority”. If all requirements are met, the work permit issuing authority may issue the “Permit to Employ and Work”. The “work permit issuing authority” is the Superintendent of the local public school or those persons authorized in writing by the Superintendent to issue the permit.

Maintaining confidentiality is the legal, ethical and professional responsibility of every member of the school community, including students, parents/guardians, teachers, aides, and all other employees. Every member of the school community must respect the privacy of all students, families, employees, the principal and the pastor.

“Pupil records” means any record related to a student that is maintained by a school or one of its employees. It includes health records. It does not include “directory information” or a school employee's informal notes, if the notes remain in the sole possession of the maker and are not made available to others, except to a substitute.

Only the principal, as custodian of the records, authorizes the release of pupil records. Only teachers or administrators charged with pupil oversight have the right to view or use pupil records. A teacher’s aide may view or use pupil records only with direct teacher supervision. Pupil records may be released by judicial order such as a subpoena or a search warrant. In specific cases, such as suspicion of kidnapping, police officers may be given access to records.

Parents and legal guardians of minors have the absolute right to access their child’s pupil records in accordance with the school’s reasonable procedures for providing such access. Parents or legal guardians may grant any specified person written consent to access specifically identified pupil records. In cases of legal separation and/or divorce, California state law gives the custodial parent and a non-custodial parent with visitation rights, the right to access and examine pupil records. However, only the custodial parent may consent to the release of records and has the right to challenge the content of the records and to write responses to information regarding disciplinary action. A non-custodial parent without visitation rights has no right of access to records of any kind.

"Directory information" means one or more of the following items: pupil's name, address, telephone number, date and place birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous public or private school attended by the pupil.

The school will, to the extent possible, minimize access to student telephone numbers or personal email addresses, unless the parents or legal guardians consent to broader access. To the extent possible, users should try to minimize access to or distribution of student telephone numbers or personal email addresses, unless the parents of legal guardians consent to broader access

Room parent rosters, class lists, telephone numbers, email address lists or any other personal information about families and students are considered confidential and may be used only for the purposes specified. In no cases should commercial enterprises be given access to Directory Information.

tc "Pupil Record" \l 2xe "Pupil Record_ TC \"Pupil Record\" \\l 2 _"Verbal/Written Confidences

Confidential information may be provided by students or parents/guardians to school employees in many ways. Students may confide in staff verbally, in writing, such as a note or a writing/journal assignment. All school employees must respect the verbal or written confidences of adults and students, except in cases where the health or safety of the student or others is involved. If the confidence received relates to a health or safety issue, the pastor, principal or other person in charge or appropriate authorities must be notified promptly, keeping in mind the rights of privacy that apply. Archdiocesan policy on reporting suspected abuse of children or vulnerable adults must be followed when applicable.

Whenever a pupil transfers from one school to another, a copy of the Cumulative Student Report and the original Health Record shall be transferred by the former school upon a request from the school where the pupil intends to enroll. The original Cumulative Student Report will remain at the school.

A record of the transfer, the reason for the transfer, and the name of the school to which the student is transferring or entering after graduation should be entered on the original copy of the Cumulative Student Report and in the Student Attendance Register.

Under California law, a private school cannot refuse to provide student records to a requesting school because of any charges, including tuition or fees that are owed by the student or parent. However, the school may withhold from parents/guardians the grades, diploma, or transcripts of a pupil pending payment of certain amounts for damaged property, or the return of loaned property, in accordance with school policy.

The student insurance program is provided for all full time students in Archdiocesan schools. This program assists only with medical expenses incurred because of accidental bodily injury sustained by students while attending school, while traveling to or from school or while participating in a school sponsored and supervised activity, including school sponsored sport and extended day programs.

The mission and purpose of the school is education. Schools do not assume the responsibilities proper to the family and to society. Schools may not assume the responsibility for psychological counseling or therapy because they are not qualified or licensed to provide such counseling or therapy.

Schools may engage in the following activities in addition to providing classroom instruction:

In cases of actual or suspected child abuse or abuse of vulnerable adults, the Archdiocesan Victims’ Assistance Ministry is available as a resource. The Victims’ Assistance Ministry provides outreach and guidance to those suffering from abuse; sponsors a faith-based trauma recovery program; and assists in informing parish, school, archdiocesan and governmental authorities of the allegations of abuse. Referral to the Victim’s Assistance Ministry is not a substitute for mandated reporting of suspected abuse. Such a report must be made in accordance with Archdiocesan policy.

Sacred Heart School has a counselor on campus on two days per week who is available for students and class meetings. This service has been contracted through Azusa Pacific University. A permission form for this counseling service is sent home to parents at the beginning of the school year. On occasion, the school may recommend that the parent/guardian obtain counseling services and/or specialized testing for his/her child. This would be done with the best interest of the child in mind. The school expects parents to comply with these requests in order to support the partnership of parents and the school in the educational process. Refusal to cooperate with requests may put the child’s continuation at Sacred Heart School in jeopardy.

The principal has the right to amend the handbook at any time for just cause. Parents will be given notification if changes are made.

The principal, in consultation with the pastor, is the final recourse in all disciplinary matters and can, for just cause, at his/her discretion waive any disciplinary regulation.

AIDS POLICY FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

In accord with the statement of the California Bishops, "A Call to Compassion" and the philosophy of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese, any student found to be infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency (AIDS) or AlDS‑Related Complex (ARC) will be treated with respect and dignity.

Every precaution will be taken to protect the confidentiality of records, files, and other information about the HIV status of the student.

Decisions regarding the type of educational and care setting for a student infected with the AIDS/ARC virus should include the behavior, neurologic development, and physical condition of the student.

For most infected school-age students, the benefits of an unrestricted environment (PL 94‑142) should be given priority in the decision‑making process.

For the infected pre‑school child and some neurologically handicapped students who lack control of their bodily secretions or who display abnormal behavior, such as biting, and those students who have uncoverable, oozing lesions, a more restricted environment is advisable until more is known about transmission of viruses in these settings.

Any decision regarding the type of educational service to be provided to a student based on the presence of the AIDS/ARC virus must be made in consultation with the student's physician, counselor, parents or legal guardians, principal, and where appropriate, the pastor of the parish where the school is located. Consultation with the superintendent and public health personnel is also advised.

HARASSMENT, BULLYING AND HAZING POLICY FOR STUDENTS IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
ARCHDIOCESE OF LOS ANGELES

Sacred Heart School is committed to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment that respects Christian values and is free from harassment, bullying or hazing in any form. Harassment, bullying or hazing of any student by any other student, lay employee, religious, clergy, or school volunteer is prohibited. The school will treat allegations of any such conduct seriously and will review and investigate such allegations in a prompt, confidential and thorough manner. This policy shall be communicated clearly to faculty, staff, volunteers, parents/guardians, and students.

Substantiated acts of harassment, bullying or hazing by a student will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal of the student. Students found to have filed false or frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. For students in grades K-3, this disciplinary action shall depend on the maturity of the students and the circumstances involved. For students in grades 4 through 8, the disciplinary action may include suspension or dismissal.

Harassment occurs when an individual is subjected to treatment or a school environment that is hostile or intimidating based upon a legally protected class, such as race, sex, ethnic origin or religion. It includes, but is not limited to, any or all of the following:

· Verbal harassment XE "VERBAL HARASSMENT" : Derogatory comments and jokes; threatening words spoken to another person.

· Physical harassment XE "PHYSICAL HARASSMENT" : Unwanted physical touching, contact, assault, deliberate impending or blocking movements, or any intimidating interference with normal work or movement.

· Visual harassment XE "VISUAL HARASSMENT" : Derogatory, demeaning or inflammatory posters, cartoons, written words, drawings, and gestures.

· Sexual harassment XE "SEXUAL HARASSMENT" : Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Bullying is the habitual harassing, intimidating, tormenting, browbeating, humiliating, terrorizing, oppressing and/or threatening of another person. Bullying typically consists of direct behaviors, such as teasing, taunting, threatening, hitting, shoving, and stealing that are initiated by one or more students against a victim or victims. In addition to direct attacks, bullying may also be indirect, such as spreading rumors that cause victims to be socially isolated through intentional exclusion. Whether the bullying is direct or indirect, the key component of bullying is physical or psychological intimidation that occurs repeatedly over time to create an ongoing pattern of harassment and abuse.

Hazing is any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization or student body or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to these organizations which causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm, to any student or other person.

Students also may be involved in cyberbullying, which occurs when they bully each other using the Internet, mobile phones or other cyber technology. This can include, but is not limited to:

· Posting inappropriate pictures or messages about others in blogs or on Web sites.

· Establish practices and provide staff development training and age-appropriate information for students, designed to create a school environment free from discrimination, intimidation or harassment.

· Make all faculty, staff, students, parents/guardians, and volunteers aware of this policy and the commitment of the school toward its strict enforcement

· Remain watchful for conditions that create or may lead to a hostile offensive school environment.

· Conduct himself or herself in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment.

· Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, harassing, bullying or hazing.

· If possible, inform the other person(s) that the behavior is offensive and unwelcome.

· Report all incidents of discrimination, harassment, bullying or hazing to the principal or teacher.

· As appropriate, the students involved may be asked to complete a formal, written complaint which will be investigated thoroughly and will involve only the necessary parties. Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible.

ARCHDIOCESE OF LOS ANGELES
Department of Catholic Schools
Complaint Review Process for Archdiocesan
and Parish School Parents and Students

Concern for the dignity and rights of each person are intrinsic to the Church’s mission as a true witness to the spirit of the Gospel. Circumstances may give rise to conflicts among students, parents and school staff. All parties are encouraged to use every available means to resolve these conflicts when they occur. However, if the involved parties are unable to resolve their conflicts, families may use the Parent/Student Complaint Review Process for additional assistance. All those participating in the Complaint Review Process are responsible to strive toward reconciliation and act in good faith. Legal representation is not permitted during the Complaint Review Process. Any person filing a complaint is to be free from restraint, coercion, discrimination, or reprisal in any form.

The person bringing the complaint is encouraged to try to resolve the complaint by discussing it with the persons directly involved.

If resolution is not achieved, the complaint should be discussed with the principal (or the pastor, if the principal is the subject of the complaint).

For elementary schools, if the principal is unable to resolve the conflict, the principal will bring the pastor into the process as appropriate.

After reviewing the facts and facilitating discussion of the problem the principal will respond to the person bringing the complaint.

· If the complaint is not resolved at the school or parish level, the complaint may be submitted in writing to the supervisor at the Department of Catholic Schools, outlining the concerns and reviewing the local process.

· The supervisor will review the complaint (with such consultation as may be appropriate) in a timely fashion and will endeavor to mediate and resolve the matter.

· However, if no agreement can be reached, the supervisor will make a final determination concerning the resolution of the complaint, based on the application of Archdiocesan and school policies and/or regulations, and communicate that determination, which will be final and binding, in writing to all parties.

Sacred Heart School

Parent/Student Policies Agreement Form

2009-2010

We, the administration, faculty, staff and (parent organization) of Sacred Heart School, welcome you to our school community which is firmly committed to providing a Catholic education for your children.

The success of our school community demands the commitment and dedication of the administration, faculty, staff and parents to the philosophy, mission statement and Student Learning Expectations of the school. Thus, we ask you to read the following agreement and sign it as an indication of your acceptance of your responsibilities to the school community.

1. We understand that the school is a Catholic parish school under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. We accept, therefore:

a. that the pastor of the parish is the ex-officio chief administrative officer of the school, who carries out the policies of the Archdiocesan Advisory Board and, on points not covered by Archdiocesan policy, determines policies appropriate to the needs of the school.

b. that the principal is responsible for the immediate direction and supervision of the school program.

2. We understand that certain responsibilities require our continuous support if the school is to achieve its goals. We agree, therefore:

a. To participate at Sunday/Saturday Liturgy each week and to participate in parish activities so that our children may have a sense of the importance of their faith commitment and community in their lives.

b. To participate in the religion program and related activities in order to make the teaching of religion a reality in the lives of our children.

c. To encourage our children to learn by providing the environment (space and time) suitable for home study.

d. To abide by all school and Archdiocesan policies and regulations and to positively accept all disciplinary actions, including withdrawal of our children, for non-compliance with these policies and regulations.

e. To communicate respectfully with all personnel at all times and to communicate to our child(ren) our support of school personnel and policies.

f. To promptly complete and return all forms and records necessary to comply with school, Archdiocesan, and state regulations.

3. We understand that tuition and fees cover only a part of the total cost of educating our children. We agree, therefore:

a. That the obligation to pay all charges for the full academic year is unconditional and that tuition and fees will not be refunded or pro-rated upon any early withdrawal for whatever reason.

b. To make regular and prompt payment of tuition/fees; pay applicable late payment fees; and accept that my child(ren) may be excluded from school at any point that tuition becomes more than 45 days overdue.

c. To submit donation envelopes weekly at Sunday/Saturday Liturgy at Sacred Heart Church (if receiving the supporting parishioner tuition rate).

d. To fulfill our service obligations as explained in full in the Parent/Student Handbook.

e. To participate in the fundraising program (if applicable) as explained in full in the Registration Contract and Parent/Student Handbook.

f. To abide by the decision of the pastor/principal should circumstances lead us to request exemption for all or part of our obligations.

Our family has received and read the Sacred Heart School Parent/Student Handbook. We are aware of, understand, and agree to follow the policies and procedures stated in the Handbook. We acknowledge that the school has the right to amend the Handbook during the school year as needed and we agree to follow the policies and procedures as may be added or amended.

We understand that we may be asked to withdraw our child(ren) from the school or our child(ren) may not be invited to return the following year, if we fail to fulfill our responsibilities under the Handbook and any additions and amendments that may be made. Our signatures below indicate our commitment to fulfill our obligations according to the requirements of the Handbook.

Father’s Signature ____________________________________ Date _______________

Mother’s Signature ____________________________________ Date _______________

A. ______________________________________________________ ______________________

______ Medication may have adverse effects (explain) __________________________________

______ Special instructions and/or comments _________________________________________

C. Physician’s Authorization. The student for whom this medication is prescribed is under my care.

I request that my child, ______________________________________ , be permitted to receive and to be assisted/supervised in taking the above prescribed medication at school. I will comply with the policies and procedures determined by the school district.

Student’s First Name _________ Grade __	Student’s First Name __________ Grade __
Student’s First Name _________ Grade __	Student’s First Name __________ Grade __

PARENT ‑ STUDENT HANDBOOK SCHOOL POLICIES 2009-2010