st. mark catholic school · up to keep god’s commandments as christ taught us, by loving god and...

St. Mark Catholic School

Parent-Student Handbook 2019-2020 Academic Year

Rev. Brian Hecktor, Pastor

Mrs. Julie Bingham, Principal

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook ii

PARENT - STUDENT HANDBOOK

2019-2020

Policies and Procedures

For


4220 Ripa Ave.

St. Louis, Missouri 63125

314.743.8641

Fax: 314.743.8690

www.stmarkstl.com

Archdiocese of St. Louis

St. Mark Catholic School is accredited by the Missouri Chapter of the National

Federation of Nonpublic Schools.

http://www.stmarkstl.com/

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook iii

Table of Contents

Contents 2019-2020 Academic Year.......................................................................................................................... 1

2019-2020 Faculty & Staff .............................................................................................................................. 1

ARCHDIOCESE OF ST. LOUIS WITNESS STATEMENT ..................................................................... 2

Amendment of the Handbook ....................................................................................................................... 3

Handbook Agreement .................................................................................................................................... 3

Administration ............................................................................................................................................... 3

School Board .................................................................................................................................................. 4

Philosophy Statement ...................................................................................................................................... 7

Admissions ..................................................................................................................................................... 8

Policy of Non-Discrimination ..................................................................................................................... 8

Admission Policy ........................................................................................................................................ 8

Re-Enrollment of Current Students ............................................................................................................. 9

Waiting List ................................................................................................................................................. 9

Students with Special Needs ....................................................................................................................... 9

The School Day.............................................................................................................................................. 9

Uniforms ..................................................................................................................................................... 9

EVERYONE......................................................................................................................................... 10

GIRLS ................................................................................................................................................... 11

BOYS .................................................................................................................................................... 12

DRESS DOWN DAY DRESS CODE: ............................................................................................... 12

Identification of Possessions .................................................................................................................. 12

Morning Arrival Procedures: .................................................................................................................. 13

Arrival Procedure .................................................................................................................................... 13

Before School Care .................................................................................................................................. 13

Daily Schedule ......................................................................................................................................... 13

Attendance and Punctuality .................................................................................................................... 13

Absenteeism: ......................................................................................................................................... 14

Tardy: .................................................................................................................................................... 14

Student Release from School ................................................................................................................ 15

Appointments ........................................................................................................................................ 15

Duel Enrollment .................................................................................................................................... 15

Religious Services ................................................................................................................................... 16

Textbooks ................................................................................................................................................. 16

Classroom Interruptions .......................................................................................................................... 16

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook iv

Electronics and Cell Phone Usage by Students ..................................................................................... 17

Cafeteria ................................................................................................................................................... 17

Dismissal Procedure ................................................................................................................................ 18

Early Dismissal Days .............................................................................................................................. 18

After Care ................................................................................................................................................. 18

Special School Days ................................................................................................................................ 18

Field Trips ................................................................................................................................................ 19

Snow Days ................................................................................................................................................ 19

Snow Schedule ......................................................................................................................................... 19

Water Bottles ........................................................................................................................................... 19

Communication ............................................................................................................................................ 20

Use of Electronic Communications Devices and Applications ................................................................. 21

Use of Student Photographs by the School and the Media ....................................................................... 21

Grievance Procedure ................................................................................................................................. 21

Phone and Email ....................................................................................................................................... 22

Visiting the School .................................................................................................................................... 22

Curriculum ................................................................................................................................................... 22

Core Curriculum Guide: ............................................................................................................................ 22

Academic Honesty .................................................................................................................................... 22

Computers ................................................................................................................................................. 22

Chromebook Use and Expectation: ........................................................................................................... 22

E-Readers .................................................................................................................................................. 23

Instrumental Music: .................................................................................................................................. 23

Internet Acceptable Use Policy and Electronic devices (See Appendix) .................................................. 23

Instructional Use of Copyrighted Materials .............................................................................................. 23

Assignment Notebooks ............................................................................................................................. 23

Homework ................................................................................................................................................. 23

Redo Work ................................................................................................................................................ 24

Honor Roll ................................................................................................................................................. 24

Library ....................................................................................................................................................... 24

Recess ........................................................................................................................................................ 24

Resource Teacher/Learning Consultants: .................................................................................................. 25

Science Lab Safety .................................................................................................................................... 25

School Supplies ......................................................................................................................................... 25

Student Publications .................................................................................................................................. 25

Extra-Curricular Activities ........................................................................................................................ 26

Discipline ...................................................................................................................................................... 27

Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline™ ..................................................................................................... 28

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook v

Disciplinary Procedures ............................................................................................................................ 29

Responsibility Card ................................................................................................................................... 29

Behavior Cards .......................................................................................................................................... 30

Academic Honesty .................................................................................................................................... 31

Alcohol-Drugs-Tobacco-Violence Weapons ............................................................................................ 32

Cell Phones/Pagers/I pods/Apple Watches ............................................................................................... 32

Harassment ................................................................................................................................................ 32

Internet and Electronic Communications Conduct ................................................................................... 32

Violence (see appendix) ............................................................................................................................ 33

Weapons .................................................................................................................................................... 33

Detention ................................................................................................................................................... 33

Probation ................................................................................................................................................... 33

Suspension................................................................................................................................................. 33

Withdrawal for Cause................................................................................................................................ 34

Emergency Procedures .................................................................................................................................. 34

Finances ........................................................................................................................................................ 35

Fees ........................................................................................................................................................... 35

Book Fees/Registration Fees ..................................................................................................................... 35

Chromebook Fee: ...................................................................................................................................... 35

Financial Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 35

Student Health .............................................................................................................................................. 36

Hearing and Vision Screening................................................................................................................... 37

Medication (See Appendix – Medication Policy And Medical Consent Form) ....................................... 37

Child Abuse ............................................................................................................................................... 37

Safety Patrol .............................................................................................................................................. 37

Student Insurance Program ....................................................................................................................... 37

Safety Drills .............................................................................................................................................. 37

School Calendar ........................................................................................................................................... 37

School Grounds & Facility ......................................................................................................................... 37

Student Evaluation ....................................................................................................................................... 38

Standards-Based Grading .......................................................................................................................... 38

Grading Scale for Standards Based Grading ............................................................................................. 39

Grade Scale for 5th-8

th grades .................................................................................................................... 40

Online Grades ............................................................................................................................................ 40

Progress Notes ........................................................................................................................................... 40

Report Cards .............................................................................................................................................. 40

Parent-Teacher Conferences ..................................................................................................................... 40

Promotion and Retention ........................................................................................................................... 41

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook vi

Standardized Testing ................................................................................................................................. 41

Cumulative Records .................................................................................................................................. 41

Custody Agreements ................................................................................................................................. 42

Catholic High School Application Process ................................................................................................ 42

Process and Timeline: ............................................................................................................................... 42

Parent Involvement ...................................................................................................................................... 43

Volunteers ................................................................................................................................................. 43

Parent-Teacher Association....................................................................................................................... 43

St. Mark Catholic School Parent Witness Statement ................................................................................ 43

Maintaining School Privacy ........................................................................................................................ 44

APPENDIX:

Communicable Diseases

Dress Code

E-Reader Permission Form

Internet and electronic Device Acceptable Use

Field Trip Consent Form

Primary Behavior Chart

Middle School Discipline

Head Lice Policy

Online Pledge

Medication Policy

Medication Consent Form

Private Vehicle Transportation

Supply List

Suspension Policy

Probation

Withdraw for Cause (Expulsion)

Violence Policy

Witness Statements

St. Mark Catholic School-Parent Student Handbook 1

St. Mark Catholic School 2019-2020 Faculty & Staff

Pastor Rev. Brian Hecktor

Pastor IHM Rev. Msgr. Jerome Billing

Principal Mrs. Julie Bingham email: [email protected]

Secretary: Mrs. Mary Althage email: [email protected]

Marketing/Advancement: Mrs. Debbie Greubel email: [email protected]

Faculty – email addresses are teachers first initial and last name @stmarkstl.com

Preschool Mrs. Mary Miller [email protected]

Kindergarten Mrs. Katie Black (KB) [email protected]

First Grade Mrs. Tricia Oldani (1O) [email protected]

Second Grade Miss Kayla Polette (2P) [email protected]

Third Grade Mrs. Michelle Baldwin (3B) [email protected]

Fourth Grade Mrs. Debbie Solari (4C) [email protected]

Fifth Grade Mrs. Therese Thieret (5T) [email protected]

Sixth Grade Mr. Mark Baker (6B) [email protected]

Seventh Grade Mrs. Gale Boyer (7B) [email protected]

Eighth Grade Mrs. Karen Roeseler (8R) [email protected]

Specialty Resource Teacher Miss Angela Deatherage [email protected]

Music Mrs. Stephenie Mokriakow [email protected]

Physical Education Mrs. Diana Kelsch [email protected]

Computer Mrs. Laura Wells [email protected]

Art Mrs. Debbie Modesto [email protected]

Teacher Aides Mrs. Joni Andrews [email protected]

Mrs. Lisa Berkbigler [email protected]

Mrs. Susan White [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]






















ARCHDIOCESE OF ST. LOUIS WITNESS STATEMENT FOR THOSE WHOSE CHILDREN ATTEND CATHOLIC EDUCATION PROGRAMS

One of the supreme gifts of marriage is bringing forth new life. God entrusts children to parents who

have a primary right and duty to educate their children in the practice of their faith. Parents carry out

this responsibility by creating a home full of love, forgiveness, respect, and fidelity. The family is the

community in which, from childhood, one honors God and learns moral values.

In the rite of the sacrament of Baptism, parents receive the call from God to evangelize their children,

as here summarized: You have asked to have your child baptized. In doing so you are accepting the

responsibility of training him (her) in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring him(her)

up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor. . .You will be

the first teachers of your child in the ways of faith. May you be also the best of teacher, bearing

witness to the faith by what you say and do, in Christ Jesus our Lord.

No wonder, then, that the Church understands the home to be the domestic church. It is in the intimate

environment of the family that parents are, by word and example, the first heralds of the faith with

respect to their children. This environment is enhanced and deepened through the parish Eucharistic

community that is the heart of the spiritual life for Christian families.

Catholic schools and parish religious education programs are in partnership with the family in

proclaiming and witnessing to the person and life of Jesus Christ. They assist parents in fulfilling their

responsibility as the primary religious educators of their children.

This partnership works best when parents respect the beliefs of the Church and live lives in a manner

that reflects these beliefs. If parents reject the beliefs of the Church or live lives in conflict with these

teachings, catechizing young people becomes very difficult.

Aware, then of the dignity of this holy parental call, and with a reverent awe for that responsibility

which is mine, I commit myself to be, in word and deed, the first and best teacher of my children in the

faith.

Practically, this means I will:

Understand that the authentic teachings of Jesus as taught by the Catholic Church will be a part of my child’s education and

formation;

To the best of my ability respect the teachings of the Church and help my children respect the Church and its teachings;

Regularly participate in the Sunday Eucharist with my family (if not Catholic, support my children’s participation in the

Church of Baptism), include prayer in my daily life and form my children in the faith.

Commit to speak frequently with my children about God and to include prayer in our daily home life.

Participate in and cooperate with the School or Parish School of Religion programs that enable me as a parent to take an

active role in the religious education of my children, including sacramental preparation for Catholic Children;

Teach my children by word and example to have a love and concern for the needs of others;

Meet my financial responsibilities in supporting the Catholic School or Parish School of Religion


AMENDMENT OF THE HANDBOOK The principal retains the right to amend the Handbook for just cause. In addition, the Administration,

with the consent of the Pastor, has the right to conduct the affairs of the school with or without

expressed written rules as stated in this Handbook for just cause. The safety and well-being of each

student and Christian principles serve as a guide for these actions. Parents will be given prompt

notification if changes are made.

HANDBOOK AGREEMENT It is important that each student and his/her parents carefully read the St. Mark Catholic School

Handbook. Since it is part of a contract existing between the school and the parents/students, all parties

must be fully aware of the rights and obligations outlined in the handbook of each school year. Parents

and students are required to sign the attached form stating that they have read the Handbook

thoroughly and agree to be governed by its policies. The Agreement must be returned on or before the

first day of class but no later than the First Friday in September of the current school year. Because of

the importance of the contract, students will not be admitted to classes after this date unless the signed

Agreement is submitted.

ADMINISTRATION The Catholic School is structured to encourage a spirit of cooperation and a state of shared

responsibility. Within the school specific roles are prescribed for the pastor (parish administrator), the

principal (school administrator), and parents (school board members). Each person or group functions

within specific areas of expertise. “The Pastor is the spiritual leader of the Christian parish community

and is responsible for those matters within the school which affect worship, the ministry of the Word

and the spiritual welfare of the students” (Policy and Procedures for the Catholic Elementary Schools

#2210).

The pastor works closely with the school board in determining local policy and has final approval of

all board decisions. The principal is responsible for the immediate direction of the school and its

instructional program. The principal is responsible for the immediate direction of the policies of the

Archdiocesan School Board and the parish school board. Problems and questions concerning school

should be directed to the Principal. However, specific problems concerning a particular subject, class,

or behavior should first be discussed with the teacher.

The School Board functions as a group to advise the pastor and principal in making policy for

educational programs.


SCHOOL BOARD The School Board acts in an advisory capacity to the pastor and the principal by formulating and

evaluating policies for the school. The board provides the parish with a representative body for

identifying and articulating the educational needs and aspirations of the parish community.

The School Board functions in accordance with Archdiocesan guidelines. The board may officially

function only through its meetings that are held throughout the school year. Interested parishioners may

address the board during the public portion according to Archdiocesan guidelines. Meeting dates will

be published in the weekly newsletter.


2019-2020 School Calendar August

August 3 Parent Packet Pick Up St. Mark Church 6:00 pm

August 4 Parent Packet Pick Up St. Mark Church 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

August 5-6 Faculty In-service St. Mark School 9:00 am-3:00 pm

August 12-13 Faculty In-service St. Mark School 9:00 am- 2:00 pm

August 13 Open House and Supply Drop Off- St. Mark School 4:00-6:00 pm

August 15 First Day of School for K-8th

grade-

Noon Dismissal – NO

AFTERCARE

St. Mark School Noon Dismissal

August 16 Noon Dismissal- NO AFTERCARE Noon Dismissal

August 19 Preschool Begins Full Day August 19 Lunch Service begins

August 19 Aftercare begins

August 22 8th Grade Parent Meeting 8

th grade classroom 7:00pm

August 27 Palmer Music- Band Parent Meeting Music Room 6:30pm

August 28 PTO General Meeting and

Curriculum Night

St. Mark School

and cafeteria

6:30 – 8:30 pm

August 29 Speech Tryouts St. Mark School 3:00-4:00pm

September

September 2 No School-Labor Day No School

September 8 Parish Blood Drive Gym

September 13 8th Grade Scavenger Hunt Cafeteria

September 16 1st Mid-Quarter

September 17 K-2 Literacy Night St. Mark School 6:00-7:30 pm

September 16-20 ITBS Testing 3rd

-8th grade All Week

September 23 School Board Parish Offices

September 24 8th Grade Right START parent

meeting at Queen of All Saints

Queen of All Saints

School

6:30pm

September 26 12:00 Dismissal /Faculty Meeting Noon Dismissal

September 26 NO AFTERCARE

September 26 High School Night- St. Mary’s St. Mary’s High

School

7:00pm

September 27 No School – Fall Festival No School September 27-28 Fall Festival

September 30 Fall Picture Day

October

October 4 Prayer Family Dress Down Day All Day

October 7 Confirmation Retreat St. Andrews 9:00am-2:00pm

October 15 First Quarter Ends (42 days)

October 19 Trunk or Treat

October 21 Grades Posted for 1st Quarter

October 23 Parent Teacher Conferences St. Mark School 3:30-7:00 pm

October 23 NO AFTERCARE

October 24 No Students

Parent Teacher Conference

St. Mark School No School

Noon-7:30 pm

October 25 No School No School


October 28 School Board Parish Offices 7:00 pm

October 31 3rd

Grade Saint Mass St. Mark Church 8:00 am

October 31 Halloween Class Parties 1:30 pm

November November 1 All Saints Day / Prayer Families Noon Dismissal

November 3 High School Open Houses

November 8 Veteran’s Day Mass St. Mark Church 8:00 am

November 9 Speech Meet St. Mark

November 15 Vendor Fair

November 15 High School Applications Due

November 18 2nd

Mid-Quarter

November 18 School Board Parish Office 7:00pm

November 20-22 8th Grade Right START classes

November 25 Confirmation Church

November 27 8th Grade Turkey Bowl Gym

November 27-29 No School Thanksgiving Break No School

December December 6 Toy Mass

Noon Dismissal Faculty Meeting

Prayer Family Dress Down Day

Noon Dismissal

December 7 Breakfast with Santa Church and School 9:00-12:00

December 12 Christmas Concert Parish Center 10:00 am

7:00 pm

December 16-20 7th and 8

th grade mid-term exams All week

December 20 End of 2nd

Quarter (43 days)

December 20 Class Christmas Parties

Noon Dismissal 10:30 am

Noon Dismissal

December 20 NO AFTERCARE

December 23-

January 3

Christmas Break-No School No School

January January 2 Grades Posted for 2

nd Quarter

January 6 Classes Resume

January 10 12:00 Dismissal/ Faculty Meeting Noon Dismissal

January 20 No School-MLK, Jr Day No School January 22-26 D.C. Prolife March

January 26 Catholic Schools Week Open House

January 26-Feb. 1 Catholic Schools Week

January 27 School Board 7:00 pm

February February 1 Trivia Night Gym

February 1 Speech Meet

February 4 NJHS Interviews

February 6 3rd

Mid-Quarter

February 7 Noon Dismissal/Faculty Meeting Noon Dismissal

February 14 NJHS Inductions St Mark Church 8:00 am

February 17 No School- Presidents’ Day No School

February 24 School Board Parish Offices 7:00 pm

February 25 Mardi Gras Carnival Gym


February 26 Ash Wednesday

March March 6 Prayer Family Dress Down Day

Noon Dismissal-Faculty Meeting

Noon dismissal

March 7 Speech Meet

March 9 End of 3rd

Quarter

March 16 No School IF SNOW DAYS ARE

NOT USED

March 17 No School

March 18 3rd

Quarter Grades Posted

March 19 Spring Concert Gym 10:00am

7:00pm

March 23 School Board Parish Offices 7:00pm

March 23-28 Play Tech Week Gym

March 27-28 Middle School Musical Gym 7:30pm

April April 1 Prayer Families

April 8 5th Grade Junior Achievement field

trip

April 9 Holy Thursday- Retreat Day &

Chrism Mass- 1:00 Dismissal

1:00 Dismissal

April 9 NO AFTERCARE

April 11 PK-3 Easter Egg Hunt

April 10-17 No School

April 21 4th Mid-Quarter

April 24 Grandparents Day (PK-4) Gym

April 25 Speech Meet

April 27 School Board Parish Offices 7:00 pm

May

May 1 May Crowning

Noon Dismissal Faculty meeting

8:15 am

Noon Dismissal May 8 8

th Grade Ribbon Mass

St. Mark Talent Show

Church

Gym

8:00 am

1:30 pm

May 15 Passing of the Leadership Mass

Field Day/Noon Dismissal

Noon Dismissal

May 15 NO AFTERCARE

May 18 8th Grade Mystery Trip

May 19 Kindergarten Recognition

Last Day for Kindergarten

Church/Cafeteria 8:00 am

May 20 8th grade graduation St. Mark Church 6:30 pm

May 21 Preschool Step-up Day and Last Day

PK dismiss at 11:20

PK dismiss at 11:20am

May 22 Last day of school for 1st-7

th 11:00

am dismissal

11:00 am Dismissal

May 22 NO AFTERCARE



St. Mark School is an extension of the Church and each family we serve. St. Mark

Catholic School seeks to provide an inclusive environment in which we all learn from

and with one another. We encourage our students to strive for academic excellence

while learning how to serve God and others generously. It is with this that we ask each

family to ENTER St. Mark ready TO LEARN but to GO FORTH ready TO SERVE

others.

Philosophy Statement

We pledge to journey with each child as they grow in a personal relationship with

God by providing a Catholic foundation and seeking to instill a love for the

Church.

We believe that each child is unique and formed in the image and likeness of

God.

We believe that a focus on virtue is necessary to help students, parents, and

teachers to be more Christ like.

We recognize that each child has a unique learning style and potential which

requires continuous development.

We acknowledge that parents are their child’s first teacher, and we work to build

a mutual support between parents and staff.

We foster self-discipline, leadership, tolerance and independent thinking.

We support and guide the children as they learn to respect themselves and others

in a formative environment of love and care.

Enter to Learn . . .Go Forth to Serve

Mission Statement

St. Mark Catholic School is dedicated to educating our young people to

become respectful, responsible Catholics and Christians who go forth to serve.


ADMISSIONS

Policy of Non-Discrimination St. Mark Catholic School will admit students of any race, religion, color, or national and ethnic origin to

all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at our

school. St. Mark School will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin or

ethnic origin in admission policies, scholarships, athletics, or any other school-affiliated programs.

Admission Policy

A child entering St. Mark School must fulfill these basic requirements:

1. The family must have a desire for this special kind of school where Catholic teachings and

moral formation are an integral part of the school. This would include participation in the

parish or religious congregation, support of the Witness Statement for Those Whose Students

attend Catholic Education Programs, agreement to follow the policies and procedures of the

school, and willingness to cooperate with the teachers and administration in the moral,

psychological, emotional, spiritual, and academic development of their children.

2. Must attend a conference with the principal concerning desire for admission and reasons for

transfer. The principal must review permanent records before admission to determine school’s

ability to meet the student’s needs. A request for records form must be completed by parents

who give it to the current school. Records are then transferred from school to school.

Financial obligations must be met at previous school for records to be released.

3. Must submit a copy of the child’s baptismal certificate and birth certificate.

4. Must complete all health records and physical exam requests.

5. Must complete all other school forms.

6. Parents must be able to accept financial responsibilities and provide a copy of custody

agreements where necessary.

7. Must comply with age requirements of the Archdiocese of St. Louis and our school.

Registration for the next school year will take place in February of the current school year. Notice of

registration will be sent home in the Thursday packet and published in the parish bulletin. When

classes are filled, a waiting list will be established. As openings arise, students will be accepted

according to the chronological order of their application date on the waiting list. Students may be

dually enrolled in public school to participate in specialized program or to receive special education

services.


Re-Enrollment of Current Students

All current students in good standing will be automatically re-enrolled for the following school once their

Letter of Intent is completed and submitted with the Resource and Technology Fee. After May 1, current

students that have not re-enrolled may lose their space in the grade to newly-enrolling students.

Waiting List In the event that a grade reaches its maximum number of enrolled students, a waiting list will be

established for any later applications. If openings become available, those students on the waiting list

who have completed the school's application process will be accepted. Priority on the waiting list will be

given to families from St. Mark Catholic School Parish.

Students with Special Needs Catholic schools should attempt to address the special learning needs of students to the greatest possible

extent within the parameters of the school’s financial and human resources. To do less than can be done

in this regard is to be exclusive in a faith that is called to be universal. It is important that schools fairly

evaluate both students’ special needs and their own capabilities of addressing those needs. The goal of all

efforts to address students’ special learning needs should be successful mastery of the regular curriculum

in the regular setting.

Federal legislation prohibits schools from excluding otherwise qualified students who have disabilities,

solely on the basis of their disability, if, with minor adjustments, the school could provide that student

with an appropriate education. In the event that a school cannot meet a particular student’s special

learning needs with minor adjustments, the school should assist the family in finding appropriate

alternatives so that the student’s needs are ultimately met.

(The term “adjustments” is used rather than “accommodations” or “modifications” throughout the

policies related to special needs. The laws that apply to non-public schools use the term “adjustments,”

whereas the laws that apply to public schools use the terms “accommodations” and “modifications.”

Therefore, the term “adjustments” is preferred terminology for changes made to curriculum, instruction,

and/or assessment for the purpose of addressing a student’s special needs.)

Schools should obtain current diagnostic evaluations and authorizations to exchange information with

specialists and agencies, in order to make informed decisions about admitting students with special needs

and providing them with appropriate adjustments during their term of enrollment. These evaluations and

related documents should be part of a student’s cumulative record.

THE SCHOOL DAY UNIFORMS Uniform enforcement begins at home. Students are expected to wear the proper uniform to school at

all times. No changes or alterations are allowed. All teachers will check student uniforms first thing

each morning as a part of the daily routine. Parent members of the school board with consultation of

the principal created the dress code. Cleanliness of person and dress is expected at all times. All

students are expected to wear full uniform daily. Parents will be notified of any exceptions. Students

who receive more than five dress code violations may forfeit all future dress down days and/or receive

other consequences.


Students are not allowed to carry purses or book bags unless permission is granted for specific

purposes by the principal. Parents have the responsibility to see to it that their children wear only the

regulation uniform. Parents will be asked to bring appropriate uniform apparel to school. No student

may alter in any way the established uniform of St. Mark School (i.e. wearing rolled up skirts or

pants, etc.).

General uniform expectations:

o Uniforms must be clean, in good repair, and neat on a daily basis.

o Uniforms must be free of emblems and name brand markings.

o Undergarments must not show through the uniform (including the PE uniform).

o Absolutely no make-up or nail polish is allowed (with the exception of dress down days).

Artificial nails may not be worn.

o One pair of small earrings may be worn in the earlobe. Dangle, large hoops or multiple pairs of

earrings may not be worn. Cartlidge piercings are not allowed.

o Dyed hair, highlights, markings shaved into hair, distracting and exaggerated hair styles are not

allowed.

o Boys’ hair must be groomed, neat at all times, above the eyebrows, and above the collar.

o Simple and inconspicuous hair accessories for girls are allowed.

Although no policy can cover all issues, we expect the students of St. Mark Catholic School and their

parents/guardians to exhibit good judgement. It is understood that the faculty and administration will

decide what is acceptable attire and appearance for the students of St. Mark.

Students who are not in proper uniform in preschool-2nd

grade will get a note home from the teacher

indicating the necessary uniform adjustments. Students in grades 3rd

-8th

will be written up on their

responsibility card. Parent’s may be contacted to bring a proper uniform to school depending on the

infraction or students may be required to change into a proper uniform from the supply of uniforms at

school.

Uniform items can be purchase from St. Louis Sportswear and Just Me Apparel.

EVERYONE

SHIRTS – White or red knit or nylon collared, golf shirts, plain with no pockets, but may have Saint

Mark’s logo. Red or white long-sleeved turtlenecks, plain or with approved Saint Mark’s logo.

PANTS – Navy or skipper blue uniform-style pants may be pleated or flat front. Must have belt loops

and belt. (Cargo or other style pants are not allowed)

SHORTS – Navy or skipper blue uniform-style shorts of appropriate length (fingertip length or

longer), may be pleated or flat front. Must have belt loops and belt. Shorts may be worn April 1

through October 31.


BELTS – Navy, brown or black belt with a plain buckle must be worn with shorts or pants.

SOCKS – Navy or royal blue, black, red or white socks, must be visible. Elite socks or similar brands

may be worn if all colors are a part of the established dress code.

SHOES – Leather below the ankle dress shoes in blue, black or brown. Tennis shoes in predominantly

black, blue, red, grey, or white. Mismatched or shoes with all an over design (checked, polka dots,

etc.) are not allowed. Laces must match the shoes and be properly tied with the bow on top of the

tongue of the shoe. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel.

SWEATER – White, Navy Blue, or Red cardigan or pull-over. NO HOODS.

SWEATSHIRTS – Approved, red Saint Mark’s sweatshirt from Saint Louis Sportswear or Just me

Apparel. Uniform shirt must be worn under sweatshirt with the collar showing. No hooded

sweatshirts even on free dress day.

P.E. UNIFORM – Required PE uniform must be purchased through St. Louis Sportswear.

Students must wear St. Mark Shorts/Gym Pants and St. Mark T-shirt for gym class. Gym pants may be worn during cold months. Tennis shoes are required. Kindergarten through third grade may wear

P.E. uniform all day on P.E. days. During cold months, the red Saint Mark’s sweatshirt may be

worn. Only official PE uniform may be worn.

SCOUT UNIFORMS – May be worn in place of the school uniform on troop meeting days. Scout

uniforms must meet the requirement of neat in appearance and be tucked in throughout the day.

GIRLS

JUMPERS – School plaid, purchased from Just Me Apparel worn in grades K through 4. Shorts are to

be worn under jumpers or skirts. Shorts cannot be longer than the jumper or skirt and should not be

visible when standing. Girls may wear navy blue sweatpants under their jumper/skirt during the winter

months while outside. They may not be worn inside.

SKIRTS – School plaid, purchased from Just Me Apparel, worn in grades 5 through 8. Skirts are not

to be rolled at the waist and must be no shorter than 2” above knee length.

BLOUSES – Plain, white school blouses with a collar may be worn.

TIGHTS – May wear red, black, white or navy tights or leggings that are fitted to the ankle.

JEWELRY/MAKEUP – No excessive jewelry, only one pair of post earrings at a time may be

worn in the earlobe, cartilage piercings are not allowed, no makeup, no nail polish, no acrylic or fake

nails, and no tattoos. Nail polish and tattoos will be removed at the school office. Excessive jewelry

consists of, but is not limited to, oversized earrings, necklaces or multiple bands, bracelets, etc.


BOYS

HAIR – Neatly trimmed above eyebrows and ears and at least one inch above the collar. No shaved

heads, dyed hair, lines or stripes. Haircuts are expected within three days of the dress code violation.

If not in compliance within seven days a meeting with the principal will be required.

JEWELRY – No excessive jewelry, no earrings and no tattoos.

DRESS DOWN DAY DRESS CODE: On the occasion that a dress down day is permitted the following will be the guidelines for dress.

(Some dress down days are allowed as fundraisers. Children will be asked to bring in a small fee to

have an out of uniform pass.) *Guidelines for pants and shorts follow the school uniform schedule. Students may participate in dress down days by wearing appropriate casual clothing to school.

Appropriate casual clothing includes:

a. A shirt with or without a collar. No pictures or writing which are not appropriate to a Catholic

elementary school (mature ads, alcohol, drug related, rock bands, etc.) b. Jeans, only if they are in good condition and fit and are worn appropriately. c. Casual pants or shorts other than the uniform shorts that are neat looking and appropriate length. d. Skirts or dresses that are age appropriate in style and modesty e. All shirts, dresses, etc. must have sleeves.

Appropriate casual clothing does not include the following: 1. Oversized, baggy, ripped clothing 2. Tight, immodest pants or shirts including yoga pants and or leggings that are worn as pants. 3. No sleeveless shirts/blouses or dresses; shorts and skirts must be uniform length; shirts/blouses

must be long enough so that no torso is exposed.

4. Shirts with writing that is inappropriate or that advertises a product inappropriate for school age children such as cigarettes or alcohol. 5. Hats, or other accessories that are distracting to the academic atmosphere 6. Jewelry other than that allowed on regular uniform days. 7. High heels, clogs, flip-flops or platform shoes. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel unless

permission is given by the principal.

Revised April 2017.

IDENTIFICATION OF POSSESSIONS All articles of clothing (especially sweatshirts, coats, and sweaters), back packs, notebooks, folders,

lunch boxes, and other personal items should be clearly marked with the student’s name.

Lost and Found articles are kept in the wooden box located in the front foyer.

Note that lockers, desks, etc. are school property and as such are subject to search by school officials.

The school reserves the right to search any item brought onto school property such as a student’s jacket,

purse, backpack, etc.


MORNING ARRIVAL PROCEDURES: Morning supervision for all students begins at 7:30 a.m. Students that arrive prior to this time will

be charged for before care. Students arriving should enter building through the Parish Center doors

and proceed directly to the gym. Students arriving after 7:45 bell must report to office before going

to homeroom. Students arriving before 7:30 must report to the before school program.

ARRIVAL PROCEDURE Cars arriving from the north of the school should enter by turning left on Ripa Ave. and then right

into the driveway between school and rectory. Cars should circle around the parish center and should

be dropped off at the middle wing doors. Cars then proceed to exit on St. Mark Drive.

Cars arriving from the south of the school should enter the parking lot by the school driveway and

circle around the parish center. Students should be dropped off at the Parish Center doors. Cars then

circle around to exit on St. Mark Drive.

BEFORE SCHOOL CARE Before Care is available from 6:45 until 7:30 each school day. Students arriving prior to 7:30 should

report to the gym where they will be supervised in the before school program. Families will be

charged a maximum of $2.00 per day, per child when using this service. All students arriving early

will be charged for Before Care unless prior arrangements have been made.

PLEASE NOTE: ANY CHILD ARRIVING BEFORE 7:30 MUST REPORT TO BEFORE

CARE. To insure the safety of all, students may not play on parking lot before school. School

discipline policies will apply to the Before Care program

DAILY SCHEDULE 7:30 Arrival—students go directly to homeroom 7:45 Tardy Bell – Classes begin

8:00 School Mass

Schedule (grades K-4 Tues., 5-8 Thurs., All School Fri.)

11:20-11:45 PK-2 Lunch

11:50-12:10 6-8 Lunch

12:15-12:40 3-5 Lunch

3:00 Dismissal

ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY Students are considered absent whenever they are away from school during school hours except for

school sponsored or school sanctioned co-curricular activities (e.g., field trips, enrichment, and

remedial programs, etc.) Students who must be excused for medical, dental, funeral, or other reasons

during school hours are considered absent. For these types of absences, a written notice should be sent

to the school in advance by a parent/guardian stating the time, length, and reasons for absence.

Chronic or excessive absences without substantial cause can be a factor in determining a student’s

continued enrollment in the school.


A child’s regular attendance is essential for academic growth. Parents are requested to contact school

to report an absence or late arrival by leaving a message on the answering machine or by calling the

school office prior to 8 a.m. School will call to verify your child’s absence if needed. A note of

explanation upon return from an absence is required. Written notification for a planned

absence is greatly appreciated. These notes are kept by the homeroom teacher.

Absenteeism: Children who miss 4 or more hours of the school day will be marked ABSENT.

Children who miss more than 2 hours but less than 4 hours of the school day will be marked

ABSENT FOR ONE-HALF DAY.

Tardy: A student is tardy who arrives after the time fixed by school policy for the start of the school day.

Children who are not present in homeroom for the start of the morning session (7:45 a.m.) will

be marked TARDY.

Absences include:

a. Sickness-All tests and assignments that occur during the student’s absence must be

completed within three (3) school days of returning to school.

b. Appointments- (i.e. medical, dental, or other reasons) Parents are to pick up students at the

school office. Upon their return, parents and students need to report back to the office.

-In the case of absence due to appointments and high school visits, it is the responsibility of the

student to obtain missed schoolwork/assignments and to reschedule any missed tests. The

student will be expected to complete the schoolwork/assignments within the same timeframe set

by the teacher for the entire class (i.e. when missing a class on a Monday afternoon due to an

appointment a student should obtain assignments from a classmate that evening and complete

the assignment in the same time as the rest of the class.) Any missed tests should be

rescheduled for the day following the absence. Extensions may be granted at the discretion of

the teacher.

c. Field Trips-Unless ill or excused for a verifiable and reasonable situation, students who do

not attend scheduled school sponsored field trips are required to attend school on that day and

will be assigned academic tasks by the appropriate classroom teachers.

-At the discretion of the school administration, permission may be granted for a child to be

excused from a field trip. Requests for permission to be excused must be submitted in writing

to the school administration at least five (5) days prior to the date of the trip.

-A doctor’s slip may be required of a student absent from school on the day of the field trip if

the child has been reported by the parent or guardian as absent due to illness.

d. Truancy-A student is truant if he/she is absent from school for a day or portion of the day

without the knowledge and/or consent of the parent/guardian and school officials.

-Students found to be truant will serve a three (3) day in-school suspension, beginning the day

of their return to school.

-Repeated truancies could lead to withdrawal for cause.

e. Vacation-St. Mark School respects the right of parents to remove children from school during


the academic term for family vacations. However, teachers are not permitted to give assignments

prior to the student’s departure. All tests and assignments that occur during the student’s absence

must be completed within three (3) school days of returning to school. Extensions may be granted

at the discretion of the teacher. Make-up work and test scheduling are the responsibility of the

student.

Students, with teacher approval, may submit in advance long-term assignments or projects that are due

during their absence. Students who are present part of a school day and then leave for vacation will be

expected, prior to departure, to take any tests or turn in any assignments that were scheduled for that

day.

f. Missing assignments: It is the responsibility of the student to make up any missed assignments

when they are not at school. Students may be asked to stay after school or miss recess to make up

missed tests. Students will have one day for every missed day to makeup work when they are ill.

Parents may call the office before noon to request that work be sent home for their child, parents

must indicate who will pick up work between 3:00-3:15. Assignments will not be ready before

3:00.

Students who miss more than 10 days in any grading period could be asked to repeat the quarter

or grade. Students will receive an “I” for incomplete work due to excessive absences until work is

completed.

ATTENDANCE IS VERY IMPORTANT- Students and parents should know that HIGH

SCHOOLS look at attendance and tardiness when considering acceptance into their schools.

Student Release from School

St. Mark Catholic School students are permitted to leave the school for reasons of illness only after the

parent/guardian has been contacted by phone. Only contacted parents/guardians or designated

authorized adult may pick up a child from school for early release. Parents/guardians must utilize the

school’s “sign out” procedure when picking students up for early release.

Appointments

Parents are requested to arrange doctor/dental appointments AFTER school hours or on school

holidays. However, a child may be excused if necessary. A note from a parent/guardian is required

before the child may be released from school including reason, time, and length of absence. Children

leaving early or arriving late must be signed in/out by an ADULT identified by parent or

guardian at the school office. Children are marked absent or tardy for school hour appointments.

Duel Enrollment

Dual enrollment is a method of providing courses and programs to a student that the school itself

cannot provide due to staffing and/or finances. Missouri state law also allows Catholic school students

to be dually enrolled in public schools in order to participate in specialized programs or to receive

special education or remedial reading and mathematics services.


RELIGIOUS SERVICES

At St. Mark Catholic School, we recognize the importance of our Religious Education Program. It is

the main reason for your decision to choose St. Mark Catholic School for your child. Our goals in the

Religious Education Program include the following:

1.) To help our children know, understand, and love the Catholic Faith.

2.) To bring to our children an awareness of God’s personal love for them and to encourage them to

build a prayer relationship with Jesus.

3.) To help our children experience both formal and informal prayer.

4.) To help each child better understand the Mass and to assist at Mass in a sincere and reverent

manner.

5.) To prepare our children to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and

Confirmation at the appropriate time.

All students in grades 1-8 attend the 8 am Mass twice a week. Kindergarten students attend Mass once

per week at the beginning of the year and add in the 2nd

day after the first quarter or when deemed

ready. Preschool 4 students attend Mass once a week. The Angelus is prayed every day at the lunch

hour. Students pray regularly in their classrooms during the school day. Students attend Adoration

and Benediction as scheduled. Prayer Services, Stations of the Cross and All School Rosaries are also

held throughout the school year.

Students in 2nd

grade prepare for and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Sacrament of Holy

Eucharist. Parents/Guardians are required to attend informational meetings for Sacramental

Preparations.

Students in grades 2-8 participate in Reconciliation services during Advent and Lent.

Students in Grade 7 begin to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation, which will be received in the

fall semester of their 8th

grade year. Parents/Guardians are required to attend informational meetings

for Sacramental Preparations.

TEXTBOOKS The school purchases books and textbooks for student use. Textbooks are expensive and every effort

should be made to protect the books:

• All textbooks must be covered at all times. Students should avoid dropping them on the ground.

• Students must carry a book bag to and from school for protection of textbooks.

• If a book is lost or damaged, parents/guardians will pay to replace the book.

CLASSROOM INTERRUPTIONS Classes are not to be disturbed at any time during the school day. Students are only allowed to call

parents during the school day for emergencies. Forgetting homework or a lunch is not considered an

emergency. If parents/guardians wish to drop off items for students during the school day, please come to

the school office. Flowers or other items delivered to school for student’s birthdays or special events are

also to be brought to the office and will be given to the individual student at dismissal.


ELECTRONICS AND CELL PHONE USAGE BY STUDENTS Students are not allowed to carry cell phones with them during the school day. Cell phones should be

turned off and left in lockers or backpacks. Students are not allowed to have any personal internet or

cellular enabled devices, including Apple Watches and or trackers that connect to internet via Wi-Fi or

phone. Personal electronics with the exception of registered e-readers are not allowed. These items will

be taken by the teacher and/or administrator and must be picked up by a parent.

CAFETERIA St. Mark School is served by Food Services Consultants; Inc. Students may also bring lunch from

home and purchase milk. Please note we will not heat lunch items brought from home for

student lunches so please plan accordingly. Soda is not permitted as a part of any student’s

lunch.

A hot lunch is provided for students on a daily basis. Main entrees, grab and go, or soup/salad choices

are sent home monthly. Parents must pre-order meals. Parents are notified of the balance of their

lunch account by the TeacherEase system. If a student forgets his/her lunch at home, parents may

bring the lunch to the school office. Please make certain the child’s name and homeroom are clearly

marked on the lunch container.

FAST FOOD IS NOT ALLOWED:

Parents please do not send or bring fast food for student lunch.

Lunch Schedule:

Pre-K Lunch: 11:15-11:40

K-2 Lunch: 11:20-11:45

6-8 Lunch: 11:50-12:10

3-5 Lunch: 12:15-12:45

Lunch prices for this year are as follows:

Daily Lunch Price 2019-2020

(Any raise in price by the food company will be passed onto parents immediately.)

Students K-2: $3.35

3-5: $3.65

6-8: $3.85 $2.40/preschool lunch

Cost of 2nd Entrée: $1.40

Cost of individual milk depends on contract but ranges from $0.14-$0.20 will be drawn

from lunch account


DISMISSAL PROCEDURE Students will be dismissed as their car/carpool arrives to St. Mark School. Each family is assigned a

family name card and they are asked to give a copy of that card to anyone picking up their child.

Traffic will enter on St. Mark Drive and circle around the building to the middle wing. Students will be

picked up at the middle wing doors and traffic should circle back out towards St. Mark Drive onto

Union Rd.

EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS

Faculty meetings are a necessary means of planning and sharing for the improvement of our school.

The calendar indicates days that are set aside for faculty meetings. Some are all day meetings where

no students are present. Others are early dismissal days for students. Early dismissal is at 12:00

NOON with no lunch served.

AFTER CARE

After Care is available every school day from 3:15-6:00 p.m. Students not picked up by 3:15 will be

sent to After Care, parents may be charged a fee for late pickups. Students who participate in the

program on early dismissal days must provide their own lunch. Families will receive an after-care bill

on a regular basis. School discipline policies will apply to the After-Care program.

SPECIAL SCHOOL DAYS Specifications for Types of Dress Down Days:

Prayer Family T-shirt days: On assigned prayer family days students may wear prayer family t-

shirt and jeans/uniform bottoms. This is not a full dress down day.

Full Dress Down Day: Students must follow the above guidelines but can choose to wear any

acceptable clothing. Finger nail polish is allowed on these days with the expectation that it is

removed for the following school day.

Dress Up Days: Students may occasionally have Dress Up Days. Jeans, sweat pants, wind pants, etc.

may not be worn on dress up days. Please be aware that this is a Catholic environment and appropriate,

clean and modest clothing is expected at all times.

Parents may be called to bring alternate clothing if the student’s attire is determined to not fit the specified

guidelines for school.

Accessory Days Accessory days are NOT dress down days. All students will be able to accessorize their uniforms on special

days as approved by the principal. Students must wear the basic uniform and may wear holiday or color


appropriate socks, jewelry, t-shirts (in place of uniform shirts/with no inappropriate language or

designs/messages). Shirts may be worn over jumpers. Student dress must reflect Christian standards of good

taste and decency. Uniform shoes must be worn on accessory days. Teachers may ask a student to remove

ANY accessory that becomes a distraction in the classroom.

Student Birthdays Birthdays are special days. Students may celebrate their birthday at St. Mark

by having a dress down day

or by bringing in an approved birthday snack for their class only.

Students whose birthday falls during the summer months are invited to celebrate their “half-birthday” –six

months before the actual date—in the same manner.

FIELD TRIPS (See appendix for Field Trip Consent Form and Private Vehicle Policy)

A field trip is a first-hand experience that supplements classroom learning. It is an observational

experience having definite educational objectives. Field trips may be taken only with the approval of

the principal who in cooperation with teachers plans and provides for safe procedures. Most field trips

are local, using transportation by bus. All parents are informed by letter in advance and are asked to

sign a permission slip. NO CHILD IS ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE WITHOUT THIS FORM.

Parents may fax the form to the school office (314).743.8690.

SNOW DAYS The calendar allows for one snow day in the event of inclement weather. Our main consideration will

be the safety of all in hazardous road conditions. The decision to close school is made by the

Administration independent of other local Catholic or public schools. All school cancellations will be

announced over the School Reach System and Channels 2, 4, 5 local television.

PLEASE NOTE: Once the children are at school we will NOT dismiss early for inclement weather. If

the weather should worsen during the day parents are welcome to remove THEIR OWN children. Car

pools will not be dismissed until we have parent permission by phone or note.

SNOW SCHEDULE The following time schedule will be used if the school is put on snow schedule:

8:00 a.m. Before Care Begins

9:00 a.m. Students may enter the building

9:15 a.m. Classes begin

WATER BOTTLES During August, September, and May when the weather is very hot, students are allowed to bring water

bottles. CLASSROOM TEACHERS WILL ADVISE CHILDREN ON USE AND STORAGE.


COMMUNICATION School Office

OFFICE HOURS: 7:15 AM-3:15 PM

PHONE NUMBER: (314) 743-8641

FAX NUMBER: (314) 743-8690

Parents are asked to make appointments if they wish to have a conference with the principal or a

teacher. All messages for teachers and students are handled through the school office. Please do not

deliver items to the classroom to avoid an interruption of the educational process.

Announcements/Weekly Envelope

A weekly Message containing important communication will be available via TeacherEase every

Thursday. Organizations wishing to place announcements in the Thursday packet should place

articles in an envelope clearly marked “Thursday Packet” and then sent to the school office prior to

8:00 a.m. on Tuesday mornings. ALL ARTICLES MUST HAVE THE APPROVAL OF THE

PRINICPAL. An electronic version is preferred. Information going home to families must be sent via

the principal.

Ordinarily the school will not distribute information about programs, products or services which are

not sponsored by a Catholic Agency. We will provide a list of these offerings in the school office.

TeacherEase Student Information System

The TeacherEase student information system is available to all parents. It has a messaging component to

communicate with faculty and staff. You may monitor homework assignments and grades using the

TeacherEase system. www.teacherease.com

Media

Members of the media are to be present on St. Mark School property only as invited guests and are not

allowed to interview students on matters unrelated to the purpose for which they were invited.

The Message

Our weekly newsletter, “The St. Mark Message” is an excellent way of communicating important

information to school families. “The Message” will be available every Thursday by logging onto your

TeacherEase account. Parents are encouraged to read it thoroughly.

School Messenger System

In the case of an all school announcement, emergency, or snow day parents are notified via the school

Messenger system. This phone call will come from the principal’s phone extension 743-8643. This

number registers as St. Mark Parish on Caller ID. This is an automated, recorded message and there is

often a hard pause before the message begins. Each parent is asked to keep information on TeacherEase

updated as this system links to our parent database. The phone messaging system will only be activated

by the principal, pastor, or their designate.

http://www.teacherease.com/


Website

General information about the school may be found on the school website www.stmarkstl.com. St.

Mark School does not make available on the website any information that enables students to be individually identified by name.

Emergency Cards

At times, it may become necessary to reach parents who may not be available. For this purpose,

emergency cards are given out in the family packet. Please complete one card for each family and

return it during the first week of school. NOTE: If any changes occur in the emergency card

information during the school year, it is each family’s responsibility to notify the school office.

Change of Address or Phone Number

Please notify the school office and the parish office immediately, in writing, if your name, address, or

phone number on the emergency card changes during the school year. This is necessary in case the

school/parish office needs to contact you during the school day. The school office will also update your

information on the TeacherEase system.

Telephone (School)

The office telephone may be used by students only in cases of emergencies. Students are generally not

permitted to telephone home for missing assignments, projects, etc. Parents are reminded that

telephone messages to students are generally delivered 15 minutes prior to dismissal time.

Use of Electronic Communications Devices and Applications St. Mark School provides faculty and staff members with a school email account and school web-site

accessibility. All electronic and digital communication between faculty and staff and parents/guardians must

occur through these applications. School personnel may not use personal websites, blogs, personal email,

social networking sites, text messaging, and the like to communicate with parents/guardians except in an

emergency. Parents/guardians are encouraged to report to the principal any electronic or digital

communications from faculty and staff that are in violation of this directive.

Use of Student Photographs by the School and the Media Photographs of students will not be used in marketing materials or by the media without the permission of the

parent/guardian. A Permission Form for Student Involved in Media/Marketing Materials is given to all

families at the beginning of each school year. A copy of the signed form is kept on file in the school office.

Grievance Procedure When problems or concerns arise, parents/ guardians should first contact the teacher involved to discuss the

matter. Situations are usually settled through sincere, open dialogue. Parents/Guardians may leave phone

messages for teachers between 7:30a.m. and 3:30 p.m. When it is difficult to reach an agreement after

attempting to discuss the problem or concern with those involved, the principal should be approached for

assistance.

http://www.stmarkstl.com/


Phone and Email Phone and Email contact information is available to all teachers, administration on TeacherEase. Please use

good judgment in the use of this contact information. These contacts should be used for school business only.

Visiting the School The school building is locked at all times. Parents/Guardians and visitors must ring the bell located by the

main doors and identify themselves in order to enter the school building. All parents/guardians, volunteers,

and visitors must report directly to the school office when entering the school building. All parents/guardians,

volunteers, and visitors are required to sign in and wear a Visitor Badge while in the school building and

return their badges when leaving the school.

CURRICULUM

Core Curriculum Guide:

The school’s curriculum guide lists the major goals and objectives, by grade level, for each student at

St. Mark School. The curriculum guide is available to parents on the school website. Our core

curriculum consists of six academic subjects: Religion, Reading/Literature, English/Grammar, Math,

Science, and Social Studies. These core subjects are enhanced by specialty classes in Computer,

Physical Education, Music (vocal and instrumental) and Art.

Academic Honesty

The highest standard of academic honesty is expected of a St. Mark Student. The consequences for a

violation of the school’s policy concerning academic honesty are made by the teacher in conjunction

with the principal. Typical consequence is a mark on the Responsibility Card and a zero on the

assignment. Academic “dishonesty” includes but is not limited to, the passing of answers on quizzes,

tests or classroom assignments; the seeking, receiving or transmitting of specific information about

questions/answers on the test; the lending or copying of homework; use of cheat sheets or their

possession during the testing session; and acts of plagiarism.

Computers

St. Mark School students have access to computers and other electronic media both in lab and

classroom settings. Each year, students and parents must review and sign the school’s “Acceptable

Use Policy (AUP). Student violations of this policy will result in termination of electronic media

privileges and, if warranted by the violation, further disciplinary action.

Chromebook Use and Expectation: School issued Chromebooks are given to students beginning in 6

th grade. Chromebooks must remain

under the management of St. Mark School domain until the student is no longer enrolled in school.

Chromebooks are for student use only and should be used solely for academic purposes. Students who

misuse their Chromebook will have it removed. Chromebooks are monitored by teachers and

administration with GoGuardian. The first violation it will be removed for a week, the second violation

will have it removed for a month, and a third violation will have it removed for the remainder of the

year.


E-Readers Students in grades 5th-8th are permitted to bring e-readers to school with a signed parent permission

form. The E-Reader can be brought to school with the understanding that it is to be used as a tool for

reading only. All materials on an eReader brought to school must comply with the educational

objectives of the school. Accessing the internet is not an appropriate use of an eReader in school. An

eReader is defined as a digital device whose primary function is to store books and other print media.

A device whose primary function is to communicate, or to play games, but allows electronic books,

would not be classified as an eReader under this definition. School is not responsible for lost,

damaged, or misplaced devices. Permission form can be found in the appendix.

Instrumental Music:

St. Mark School provides an opportunity for students to participate in instrumental music beginning in

3rd

grade. This service will be provided by Palmer Music.

Internet Acceptable Use Policy and Electronic devices (See Appendix)

St. Mark Catholic School requires that all students and parents in grades 2-8 sign this pledge. Both

student and parent must sign the pledge before the student will be allowed to access the Internet at

school. Our computer lab will continuously update its filtering system throughout the year.

Instructional Use of Copyrighted Materials

St. Mark School students must adhere to the current copyright laws governing printed material,

videotape, computer software, music, multi-media presentations, and Internet web sites and resources.

No unauthorized copies of copyrighted materials in any form should be made or used on equipment

owned by or borrowed or leased from a school. No school staff, students, or others should use any

form of unauthorized copies of copyright materials for any purpose within the school’s instructional

programs. “Fair use” of copyrighted materials is allowed for specific instructional purposes within the

limits of the “fair use” limitations.

Assignment Notebooks

Students in grades 3-8 will receive an assignment notebook during the first week of school. Teachers

will discuss with the students the proper use and practicality of this book. Parents are encouraged to

check the assignment notebook each night. Nightly assignments as well as long term assignments are

to be written in this book by the student. There is a place for teachers to write notes to parents on each

page.

Homework

Homework is given to students to reinforce what has been presented in class; to provide for discovery

of new ideas; to stimulate independent investigation; to develop in-depth understanding through long-

range projects; and to provide for the exploration of additional sources of information. The discretion

of the teacher determines the kinds and amounts of homework appropriate to the grade level and

subject. Homework includes written work, study, reading, and research.

Parents can contribute to the process of learning through homework by:

1. Being actively interested in the student’s work.

2. Setting up proper study conditions.

3. Providing quiet time and space for reading.


4. Helping the student develop good study habits.

Students should be prepared for each class. All assignments should be completed and on time. In the

event of absence, it is the STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY to gather, make up work and submit

completed assignments.

Late homework impedes the academic progress of the individual student and the class as a whole.

Late work is not accepted if it is more than two weeks late. Students will receive a write up on

their responsibility card when assigned homework is not complete. A homework detention will be

served after five write ups.

Chronic late homework will be considered a discipline issue and will be addressed by the

administrator.

Redo Work

Students in grades 5-8 may request to redo failing assignments. A redo request must be submitted

within two days of the failing assignment being returned. The following process should be followed:

The student should speak to the teacher and ask to redo the assignment.

The teacher will give the student some additional work and/or reading to help the student review

the material.

The student will turn in the assigned work and redone assignment within two days.

Honor Roll

St. Mark School will acknowledge the accomplishments of students in grades 4-8 who have earned an

“A” or “B” average in their core subjects each quarter. Conduct must be satisfactory in all subjects.

No “D” or “F” may appear on the report card for that quarter. There are three levels of distinction for

Honor Roll.

Principal Recognition: Students earning an average of 95% and above in the core subjects.

Blue Level Recognition: Students earning an average of 93 or 94% in the core subjects.

Red Level Recognition: Students earning an average of 85%-92% in the core subjects.

Library

The St. Mark Catholic School library is open to all students. Students may check out a book for a one

or two-week period. Parents will receive notice of overdue books. Please help your child be responsible

for books borrowed from our school library. The student must pay for lost books.

Recess

There will be a morning recess break for students in grades K-4 at which time the children will be

permitted to eat a snack from home. Please do not send liquids. Children of all grades are asked NOT to

bring toys of any kind from home to play with at school. They do get lost and broken and we cannot be

responsible for replacing them. As long as weather permits the children will go outside for morning and

lunch recess (wind chill or temperature above 29 degrees Fahrenheit). PLEASE SEND YOUR CHILD

TO SCHOOL WITH ADEQUATE CLOTHING FOR THE SEASON, INCLUDING COAT, GLOVES,

AND HAT AS NEEDED. All students have a 20-minute recess during their lunch break.


Resource Teacher/Learning Consultants:

A Resource/Learning Consultant is on staff to support the special needs of our students. This staff

member works collaboratively with teachers, parents, students and administration in developing

programs to meet individual needs. The Learning Consultant will work with teachers to encourage

students who have learning disabilities, attention deficits, other disorders or who are at risk and need

alternative teaching strategies and/or learning environments. The Learning Consultant provides support

for identified students so that they can continue to work in the regular classroom. There are guidelines for

student use of these services.

Parents and/or teachers may request an observation and screening of a student. This is usually the first

step in determining the kind of assistance a student may need. After this initial step, a conference

between the parent and school will be set up to discuss the findings. At this time, a plan of action will be

determined based on the input of the learning consultant, parents, teacher, and administrator.

Services after this initial conference can include referral for additional testing, some direct interaction

with students, consultation with teachers, and implementation of prescribed modifications. In addition,

the learning consultant acts as a liaison with outside agencies and they ensure compliance with

Archdiocesan regulations regarding standardized testing and modifications to curriculum.

St. Mark School attempts to address the special learning needs of students to the greatest possible extent

within the parameters of the school's financial and human resources. If, with minor adjustments, the

school cannot meet a particular student's special learning needs St. Mark School will assist the family in

finding appropriate alternatives so that the student's needs are ultimately met.

The failure of parents/guardians to supply pertinent information detailing a student's special learning

needs prior to admission to St. Mark School may result in denial of admission or discontinuation of

enrollment.

Diagnostic evaluations and related documents are part of a student's cumulative record.

Science Lab Safety

St. Mark School maintains high standards of student and laboratory safety and personal responsibility.

No child will be allowed to endanger other students. Students who engage in irresponsible behavior

the first time will be removed from class immediately and receive an “F” on the experiment being

conducted. It will be the student’s responsibility to get the lab or class notes from classmates for tests or

homework. Repeated violations will result in automatic expulsion from the class and an “F” for the

quarter. Parents and students are required to sign the safety contract issued at the beginning of the school

year and to abide by its provisions.

School Supplies

Prior to the dismissal of school each year every family receives a list of supplies - arranged by grade

level -that are necessary for the following year. Some items are available only through the school

office. This list is also available on the school website.

Student Publications

Student publications must be the work of students under the leadership and careful supervision of

faculty. These publications (print and electronic) should meet the requirements of good journalism and

should reflect the Catholic philosophy and mission of the school.


Extra-Curricular Activities

The pastor and/or principal must approve all school related extracurricular activities (outside of school

hours), as well as the corresponding supervisory personnel. A qualified/responsible adult should act as

moderator of the activity and should be present at all times during the activity. Parents/guardians’

permission must be obtained for a student to participate in extracurricular activities.

St. Mark students are expected to act in accordance with our Catholic School morals and discipline at

all times and in particular when they are playing sports or participating in other extracurricular activities

in the name of St. Mark Catholic School. Extra-Curricular activities include but are not limited to:

Bellarmine Speech Team

Students in grades 5-8 are eligible to participate in the Bellarmine Speech program. Try-outs will be

held in September. Those chosen for the team will be assigned a coach who will assist them in

preparation for a meet. Speech meets are held three times a year.

D.A.R.E. Program

The St. Louis County police department offers a program to increase awareness and resistance to

violence and drug abuse. Students in the fifth grade participate in this program. Parents and family

members are invited to attend the graduation.

Media

Students in grades 5-8 may participate in the Media Club as one of their elective options. Media club

works to write, produce and film a weekly broadcast called the “Lion’s Roar” to the entire school body.

National Junior Honor Society

Students in grades 6-8 are nominated by teachers to apply for National Junior Honor Society. Selection is

based on academic achievement, character, and service to others. Selection of new members happens in

January of each school year.

ELECTIVES

Students in grades 6-8 have the opportunity to participate in elective classes on top of their specialty

classes. These classes are curricular or student focused. Students will enroll in four elective classes

each year.

READ, RIGHT, and RUN

The Read, Right, and Run program is open to students in K-5 grade. It encourages students to read 26

books, complete 26 acts of service and run 26 miles. Students meet weekly.

Student Council

The student council consists of elected representatives in grades 4-8. The student council plans

activities throughout the year with the consent of the principal. A faculty moderator will call the

monthly meetings and assist the elected officers in conducting business.

CYC Sports

CYC sports are available through the parish. St. Mark Students should strive to be exemplary

models of Christian behavior and sportsmanship in all athletic and non-athletic events.


Administrators, coaches, and moderators should consistently model and emphasize the

importance of Christian behavior and sportsmanship and should frequently emphasize its

importance to participants and spectators, including parents and other fans.

Discipline (See Appendix – Suspension and Expulsion Policies)

Catholic schools shall provide a safe learning environment for all members of the school community.

The climate of Catholic schools shall reflect Gospel values including an emphasis on the dignity of all

persons which necessary for respect, the interdependence of all persons that is the basis of community,

and the rights and responsibilities of all persons which are the foundations of justice.

Students have the following responsibilities: Students at St. Mark are expected to exhibit attitudes of respect for all persons. Appropriate and respectful

behavior is expected at all times. Specifically, students have the following responsibilities:

* to respect themselves by keeping their best appearance and good behavior, including using

friendly words and actions and having respectful attitudes,

* to respect the dignity and rights of others and to avoid activity that may endanger the health or

safety of others,

* to respect all adults, all students, and all visitors,

* to obey and to respect in action and in speech all persons in authority,

* to respect the property of the school and others,

* to remain on school grounds unless granted permission to leave,

* to be in full uniform daily,

* to be prompt and regular in attendance, equipped with the necessary books and supplies,

* to meet classroom standards of behavior and performance, cooperative behavior, and completing

assignments on time,

* to respect the learning atmosphere by being quiet and orderly in the hallways,

* to address adults using proper titles (i.e. Mr. Mrs. Ms. Fr. etc.) and respond courteously to

reasonable requests from authorized adults and/or personnel,

* to follow school policies and regulations.

Discipline means to train the mind and to use self-control. The purpose of a disciplinary policy in the

school is to spell out the value system upon which we operate and to specify the intentions of the

faculty and programs. Our goals therefore are to develop among all students:

1. A Christian presence in word and action. 2. A continuous demonstration of respect for all persons in our school community. 3. An ability to control one’s own actions and take responsibility for them. 4. A positive attitude towards one’s own ability.

Behavior codes and consequences (positive and negative) will be determined for each section (grades

k-2, 3-4, and 5- 8). We believe that the formation of the conscience is an ongoing process. We believe

that these codes must be expressed clearly to students at the beginning of school and as further needs

arise. We believe that rules should be applied consistently and that students should be made aware that

their actions have consequences. Consequences may include but are not limited to: notation on the

responsibility cards, detention, phone calls or meetings with parents, removal of privileges, or lower

conduct grade.


Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline™

St. Mark Catholic School is a Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline™ School. This initiative is a

Catholic response to bullying prevention, and has two goals: 1. Decrease anti-social behavior

Bullying behaviors Disruptive behaviors

2. Increase faith practices Evangelization Sacramental Practices Virtue education

In the VBRD™ model, we see misbehavior in the context of the whole child both at home and at

school. This will not replace our current discipline policy, but rather build upon what we have so as to

provide a stronger connection to our faith teaching in assuring that love of God and one another is

reflected in our discipline practices. Three tasks are the foundation of this initiative:

1. We will cultivate personal virtues as a school community.

2. We will commit to being constructive in the way we interact with others

When harm is caused by misbehavior of any kind, we will address it within the context of faith identity

to make amends. We will repair and restore relationships first because we want to live a virtuous life,

loving God and neighbor, and because we want to do unto others as we would have them do unto us.

Rather than focus on "bullying," we will look at all behaviors that are disruptive in the school day.

Many times, behavior is mislabeled as bullying, when in fact; we need to specifically identify the

behaviors as harm, humiliation or intimidation. Bullying is a label that can cause distress to both

parents and their children, as it does not always accurately describe the circumstances needing adult

intervention.

The four guiding principles in VBRD:

1. We will dedicate ourselves living virtue.

2. We will support others in living virtue.

3. We will commit to constructive thoughts, words and deeds.

4. When faced with challenges or conflict, we will find solutions that cultivate virtue for ourselves and

for one another.

Parents will have resources for using VBRD™ at home as a way to create a consistent approach to

personal growth in virtue, while emphasizing the intrinsic dignity of the human person when

disciplining their children.


Disciplinary Procedures

Discipline in the Catholic school is an aspect of moral guidance and refers to those reasonable controls

which promote the individual student's development and self-discipline. It sets the foundation for a

Christian environment in which the rights and responsibilities of the faculty, staff, and students are

recognized and observed. The rules governing St. Mark Catholic School are based on creating a Christian

atmosphere for the education, safety, and faith-community enrichment of all faculty, staff, and students.

The principal is directly responsible for overseeing the implementation of discipline procedures. To

ensure that parents and student alike are aware of the importance of the aforementioned expectations and

responsibilities, incidents of student misbehavior, when warranted, are communicated to parents.

The teacher is responsible for creating a classroom environment that nurtures both academic performance

and self-esteem. Teachers and students work together to create a climate that will inspire excitement for

life and learning. Teachers and students work to develop mutual respect for each other. Teachers

engender a sense of responsibility in their students that enables them to act effectively in life and to be

happy contributing members of the Christian community.

Parents work in conjunction with the school in our efforts to promote a sense of self-discipline in our

students. In the event further encouragement in self-discipline is needed, procedures will be used in an

effort to guide the student towards accepting responsibility for his/her behavior and towards meeting

reasonable goals that teachers and parents set.

In grades kindergarten through 2nd

, a daily checklist is used to inform parents of daily behavior.

Students in grades 3-8 use a standardized documentation known as the Responsibility Card. Parents

may view the responsibility card nightly. This card is to be kept in the student planner at all times. In

situations of serious misconduct an automatic detention can be issued to a student. When this occurs,

the student’s parents are notified and if necessary, a conference is arranged that would include the

student, principal, parent or guardian and appropriate faculty members.

For Grades K-2, most behavior teaching takes place in the classroom with supportive communication between

teacher and the parent.

In Grades 3-8, teaching of appropriate behavior and supportive communication between teachers and parents

continue. In addition, students are held actively accountable for the choices they make in regards to behavior,

through the use of a Responsibility and Behavior Card.

Special school events, field trips, and classroom parties are considered a privilege. Students in grades

5-8 will lose these privileges if the student is not adhering to the St. Mark Code of Conduct.

After 2 Responsibility Card detentions in a Quarter or more than two missing assignments the

day before a school event, the student will not be permitted to attend the event. This includes

field trips, holiday parties, etc.

After 2 Behavior Card detentions in a semester, the student will not be permitted to attend

special events.


Responsibility Card Respect for others, property, and self is an important value at St. Mark School. We wish to instill that

value throughout the day to all students. Taking care of belongings, being prepared for class, and

being respectful of teachers and school rules are some of the ways students show respect.

In order to achieve this end each student in 3rd

-8th

grade will be given a Responsibility Card.

Violations of expected behavior will result in the card being marked. Students are required to have

their cards on them at all times.

Students in grades 3-4 will receive a phone call home after receiving 5 infractions. A teacher or

principal conference with the student and parents will be required if additional cards are needed.

Students in grades 5-8 may receive 5 infractions before serving a detention. A student will receive an

automatic detention if they don’t have their Responsibility Card. Responsibility or Homework

detentions are served on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7:00 am-7:45 am. Responsibility Cards are

reissued at the beginning of each quarter.

Behavior Cards

Appropriate and respectful behavior is expected at all times. Students in grades 3-8 will be given a

behavior card. Violations of expected behavior will result in the card being marked. Students are

required to have their cards at all times. Students in grades 5-8 may receive 3 infractions before

serving a detention. Students in grades 3-4 will receive a phone call home after receiving 3

infractions. A teacher or principal conference with the student and parents will be required if

additional cards are needed.

Infractions are given in the following areas: Disrespectful Behavior, Disruptive Behavior, Dishonest

Behavior, No Responsibility Card/ Refusal to Give Card. Behavior Detentions are assigned by the

principal. Behavior cards in 3rd

-5th

grade are reissued every quarter. Behavior cards in 6th

-8th

are reissued each semester.

For chronic disciplinary measures, the school will use suspension and withdrawal for cause policies.

See below.

The safety of students, faculty and staff is paramount and warrants serious consequences when

student decision-making includes the following:

1. Students who threaten to bring a weapon to school cannot be readmitted until the

administration is reasonably assured by competent professionals that the student does not

pose future danger to self or others by returning to school.

2. Police will be notified if an assault or battery occurs resulting from use or threat of use of

firearm or weapon by a student.

3. Any infraction (intentional and/or unintentional) that endangers self or others

4. Truancy: Any absence without prior notification of the school or leaving the school

property without the permission of the principal.


5. Dishonest Behavior: Lying, cheating, stealing, forgery, etc.

6. Use of pornographic material: possession, display, or the sale of immoral and pornographic

material will not be tolerated.

7. Disrespect: Insubordination or disrespect shown to any faculty, staff, volunteer or fellow

student. Bullying, name calling, teasing, harassing, fighting, etc.

8. Vandalism: Damage caused by willful destruction of church, school or personal property will

be charged to the individual(s) involved.

9. Obscene Language: Use of obscene language through words, gestures or in written form.

10. Possession of Cigarettes and/or e cigarettes or smoking paraphernalia: Smoking while on school

grounds, at school functions, or as a school representative.

11. Alcoholic Beverages: Drinking or possession of alcoholic beverages on school grounds, at

school functions, or as a school representative. Students violating this policy will be subject to

suspension or expulsion. In addition, civil authorities may become involved.

12. Violence or Threat of Violence (see appendix)

13. Consistent non-conformity to school rules: With regard to school dress code, behavior, and

other items covered in the handbook.

14. Disruptive Behavior: Consistently talking in a loud, disorderly, or disrespectful manner, and

disrupting the learning environment.

15. Out of school conduct that seriously detracts from the reputation of the school--disturbing the

peace, arrest for misdemeanors, destruction or defacing of property, disrespect for authority.

16. Other infractions of rules set down by the administration when such infractions are of

serious nature.

Specific Discipline Issues:

Academic Honesty

The consequences for a violation of the school’s policy concerning academic honesty are made by the

teacher in conjunction with the principal. Typical consequence is a mark on the Responsibility Card

and a zero on the assignment. Academic “dishonesty” includes but is not limited to, the passing of

answers on quizzes, tests or classroom assignments; the seeking, receiving or transmitting of specific

information about questions/answers on the test; the lending or copying of homework; use of cheat

sheets or their possession during the testing session; and acts of plagiarism.


Alcohol-Drugs-Tobacco-Violence Weapons

The use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs poses a threat to the health of young people and creates

an obstacle to their full development as Christian persons. In addition, under present federal and state

laws, the possession and use of certain unprescribed drugs, including narcotics, depressants,

stimulants, marijuana, and hallucinogenic drugs are illegal. Therefore, the possession, use, or transfer

of un-prescribed or illegal drugs, or the use, possession of, or being under the influence of alcohol on

the school premises or at school sponsored functions are not permitted. Students violating this policy

will be subject to suspension and/or withdrawal for cause from school. In addition, civil authorities

may become involved.

According to government regulations there is no smoking permitted in the school building for anyone.

The St. Louis County Tobacco Ordinance prohibits possessing tobacco in any form for all children

under the age of 18. Also, there is no smoking or possession of any tobacco products for underage

students in or within 300 feet of a school building. Fines for anyone caught possessing tobacco or

smoking start at $150.

Cell Phones/Pagers/I pods/Apple Watches

Students are not allowed to use cell phones, Ipods, Apple watches, text messages, pagers, or beepers

during school hours. Students may not carry any personal electronic device on their person with the

exception of registered e-readers. Phones will be confiscated if found with student. Parents will have

to come and pick them up in order to be returned. Students may receive messages through the school

office. Other electronic devices such as electronic dictionaries may be used as long as their use does

not abuse other school policies including digital imagery, texting messages or disruption.

Harassment

St. Mark School will maintain a learning environment that is free from all forms of harassment. No

member of the school community should be subjected to any type of harassment because it is not in

keeping with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and the standards of our program.

Harassment is defined as any unwanted and unwelcome behavior that interferes with a student’s

performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment. Harassment

includes conduct that is verbal, physical or visual.

All complaints of harassment will be thoroughly and promptly investigated. Investigations will be

conducted in a sensitive manner and, to the extent feasible, confidentiality will be honored. The

investigations and all actions taken will be shared only with those who have a need to know.

If, after investigation, the administration determines that a student has engaged in sexual or other

forms of harassment, appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including suspension and withdrawal

for cause, will be taken.

Internet and Electronic Communications Conduct

A safe environment for all members of the school community should be a hallmark of a Catholic

school. This is accomplished, in part, by fostering a climate based on Gospel values that emphasize

the dignity of and respect for all persons. Words, actions, or depictions which violate the privacy,

safety, or good name of others are inconsistent with that goal. Whether occurring within or outside

of school, when students jeopardize that safe environment or act contrary to those Gospel values


they can be subject to disciplinary action by the school. This policy applies to communications or

depictions through e-mail, text messages, social media, or web site postings, whether they occur

through the school's equipment or connectivity resources or through private communications, which:

(1) are of a sexual nature; (2) threaten, libel, slander, malign, disparage, harass or embarrass

members of the school community or (3) in the Principal's discretion, cause harm to the school, or

the school community (collectively referred to as "Inappropriate Electronic Conduct"). Inappropriate

Electronic Conduct shall be subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences, including

Withdrawal for Cause.

St. Mark’s Internet and Electronic Communications Conduct policy also extends to parents and

guardians of students attending St. Mark. No harassing, immoral content especially that targets the

school, school personnel, or students will be permitted on any form of social media or web site

postings.

Violence (see appendix)

Violence inhibits human development and successful learning. Therefore, violence is not tolerated in

St. Mark Catholic School. Violence includes threats of injury, harassment, assault, possession and/or

use of a weapon, and theft or vandalism of property. All reported or observed instances of threatened

or actual violence will be addressed by the school administration.

Weapons

In order to provide a safe environment, the carrying or possession of any type of firearm or other

dangerous weapons on the premises of St. Mark School is strictly prohibited. This prohibition

expressly includes those persons licensed to carry concealed firearms.

Detention

Detention is a disciplinary measure where students (grades 5-8) must come early or stay after school

for one hour as a punishment for choosing to break school rules. Detention will be served when 5

infractions are issued on a student’s Responsibility Card or 3 infractions on a student’s Behavior

Card. Parents will be notified the day before a detention is to be served. Students will not be

excused from a detention for any reason. If they have a medical appointment for the day of

detention, they must bring proof of that appointment and serve the detention on the next scheduled

day. If a student fails to report for detention on time (more than five minutes late), they will serve an

additional detention as a consequence, as well as the original detention. Students who skip detention

will be required to serve two detentions and must have a meeting with the principal before returning

to class.

Probation

A student who has been a habitual disciplinary problem may be placed on probation after review of

his/her conduct with the parents/guardians. This is a very serious classification and a student is placed

on probation only after all other means have failed to correct the problem. The time of probation is no

less than one week and no more than one month.

Suspension

Suspension is the temporary removal of a student from his or her regular school program for a

specified period of time. Suspension is a very serious method of discipline and is used rarely.

Suspension may be of two types:


• In-school suspension is the removal of a student from his/her classroom to another part of the

building for a period of time. The time frame is usually no more than 3 days. • Out of school suspension is the act of sending a student home in the custody of a parent and the

student remains home. The time frame is usually no more than 3 days.

Withdrawal for Cause

Withdrawal for Cause is the most serious means of addressing a discipline problem. It is the removal

of a student from the school. If the behavior presents a severe threat to the physical, spiritual, and/or

moral well-being of students or for extremely serious conduct violations, a student may be subject to

withdrawal. (Archdiocesan Policy 4204)

Emergency Procedures Emergency Dismissal

The staff of St. Mark Catholic School is prepared to supervise your students in the case of an

emergency which would render our building unsafe. Should such emergency occur, please do not call

school. Information would be dispatched on KMOX radio, channels 2, 4, 5 and through the school

reach system. Students will only be dismissed to parents or to a person listed on the emergency card.

School Messenger System

In the case of an all school announcement, emergency or snow day parents are notified via the school

reach system. This phone call will come from the principal’s phone extension 743-8643. This number

registers as the Archdiocese of St. Louis on Caller ID. This is an automated, recorded message and

there is often a hard pause before the message begins. The phone messaging system will only be

activated by the principal or pastor.

Emergency Cards

At times, it may become necessary to reach parents who may not be available. For this purpose,

emergency cards are given out in the family packet. Please complete one card for each family and

return it during the first week of school.

Change of Address or Phone Number

Please notify the school office and the parish office immediately, in writing, if your name, address, or

phone number on the emergency card changes during the school year. This is necessary in case the

school/parish office needs to contact you during the school day. The school office will update your

contact information on the TeacherEase information system.

Tornado, Fire, and Earthquake Drills

To assure the safety of each child in the event of tornado, fire, earthquake or other potentially

hazardous situations, drills are held periodically during the school year to familiarize students and

teachers with emergency procedures.


FINANCES

Fees

Parishioners with children enrolled in St. Mark Catholic School support the school through their

weekly envelope offerings to the church year-round. Parents are also expected to support the Together

We’re Better Program throughout the year.

Book Fees/Registration Fees The book/registration fee for the school year is $200.00 per child. It is payable at the time of

registration. The book fee covers the cost of textbooks, testing, and educational materials.

Hardbound textbooks are the property of St. Mark Catholic School. All textbooks must be returned in

good condition at the end of the school year. Any books, including library books, which are lost or

defaced, must be paid for or replaced. Final report cards will be held until all fines are paid.

Workbooks are consumable books used in many of the subjects. Students are responsible for replacing

workbooks if they are destroyed or lost.

All hardbound books must be covered at all times. We recommend the use of a book bag or backpack

to transport books and supplies to and from school. Parents/students are responsible for replacing any

textbook that is damaged above normal usage such as breaking a book spine, marking on pages, or

destruction of pages. This will be an average fee of $50.00.

Chromebook Fee:

Incoming 6th

graders will be charged a $400 book fee to offset the cost of a School Issued Chromebook.

Chromebooks must stay under the domain of school until the time that students leave the program. The

Chromebook becomes sole property of the student upon graduation.

Financial Policy

Our school charges tuition to help cover the expenses incurred in carrying out the mission of the parish

to educate our children. The expenses not covered by tuition, comes directly from the parish offering.

Parishioners who wish to send their children to our school and cannot afford the tuition may make

arrangements with the pastor for a reduction of payment. All families are required to fill out the

“Family Tuition Obligation” form at the beginning of the year which authorizes direct payment from

the designated bank account to the school. All families are expected to honor their financial

responsibility as accepted when registering their child for the upcoming school year. Students

transferring to our school or from our school may pay a pro-rated tuition. School records/report

cards will only be transferred or released to parents when tuition is up to date and all fees have been

paid.

Eighth grade tuition must be paid before graduation.


STUDENT HEALTH (See appendix – Communicable Disease Policy, Head Lice Policy, medication)

St. Mark School maintains a health record for each student and follows the recommended policies and

procedures on communicable diseases established by the Missouri Department of Health

NOTE: MISSOURI LAW requires that all children be adequately immunized prior to entrance to

school. We must have health records for each child that includes an up-to-date immunization

record. All Health records must be updated at the beginning of Kindergarten, third, sixth grades and

all new students. Forms are available in the school office.

PLEASE DO NOT SEND CHILDREN TO SCHOOL UNTIL THEY HAVE BEEN WITHOUT

FEVER FOR 24 HOURS. CHILDREN MAY NOT BE RECEIVING TYLENOL OR OTHER

FEVER REDUCING MEDICATION AND BE IN ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL.

St. Mark Catholic School does not have a full-time nurse on duty. We rely on the volunteer services of

our parents in the medical profession and our school secretaries.

On a day-to-day basis, we rely on our school staff to handle the minor injuries that may occur. The

school secretary or principal will call you when it becomes necessary for your child to leave school

due to illness. We require all parents to return EMERGENCY CARDS with information including

names of doctors and hospitals in the event of serious injury.

Careful observation of children and isolation of sick children are the most effective means of

controlling epidemics or childhood diseases and other common communicable diseases. Any child

with skin rashes, inflamed eyes, lice, or signs of fever will be excluded from school until seen by a

physician and/or symptoms disappear.

Primary health requirements for all students are:

1. Current immunizations or wavier form on file.

2. Vision, hearing, height and weight screening done by trained school staff.

3. Physical examinations (Missouri State Law requires a physical examination for all students

entering Kindergarten, Grade 3 and Grade 6, by a Department of Health physician or other

licensed practicing physician).

Financial Requirement for 8th grade students: Payment in full must be made for all financial

obligations to the school, including but not limited to, tuition, Together We’re Better, lunch accounts,

past due amounts, etc. for an 8th grade student to participate in the end of the year activities including

but not limited to the mystery trip and graduation dinner. Within 10 days prior to activities, the

administration has the right to require a specific method of payment for a student to participate or a

concrete payment plan to be in place.

(St. Mark School Board Policy effective August 2008)


Hearing and Vision Screening

Hearing and Vision Screenings will be conducted at school by trained staff members for grades 1, 3,

and 5. Parents of children who do not pass the screening will receive notification.

Medication (See Appendix – Medication Policy and Medical Consent Form)

Child Abuse All teachers at St. Mark School are mandated reporters of suspected or known abuse/neglect of

children. Under Missouri law, when administration or school personnel suspect the mistreatment of

children they must report it to the proper authorities.

All volunteers and staff of St. Mark School are required to attend the Archdiocesan program

“Protecting God’s Children” and follow all guidelines of proper conduct as outlined by the

Archdiocese.

Safety Patrol

Eighth grade students will help maintain a safe arrival and dismissal of all our students. Members of

the safety patrol will be on hand from 7:25-7:45 a.m. and 2:50-3:05 p.m. every day. To help with the

dismissal and arrival of all our students, all drivers will be asked to please follow their direction.

Safety patrol members will be under the direction of the eighth-grade homeroom teacher. Arrival and

dismissal procedures are directives from the principal.

Student Insurance Program Student Accident Insurance is available to any family in the school who may be interested. This coverage is

offered through K & K Insurance Group, Inc. To find our more information about the program, contact the

school office or access the online enrollment is also available at this site www.studentsinsurane-kk.com or

email to [email protected].

Safety Drills Fire drills are conducted periodically throughout the school year. The school's Fire Drill procedure is in

accord with the requirements set forth by the Lemay Fire Department to ensure a safe and orderly evacuation

of the school building. Tornado, Lockdown Drills and Earthquake Drills are conducted

SCHOOL CALENDAR The school calendar may be found at the beginning of the handbook. The calendar follows the official

calendar sent to the schools by the Archdiocesan Catholic Education Office and is approved by the St.

Mark School Board. Please remember that this calendar is subject to change as needs arise. You will

be notified in writing of changes in the school calendar, whenever possible.

SCHOOL GROUNDS & FACILITY Any organization or individual wanting to use school grounds or buildings must schedule use with the

parish secretary. Keys may be checked out at the parish center or school office. We trust that the

utmost care will be taken and that the parties scheduling events will be responsible for cleaning the

area and reporting damage.


STUDENT EVALUATION Students are evaluated frequently to ensure that they are meeting the goals in the curriculum. Students in

Kindergarten through Second grade transitioned to a standards-based grading system beginning with the

2017-2018 school year. Third and Fourth grade will transition to standards-based grading in the 2018-

2019 school year. Students in 5th

-8th

grade will remain on a traditional percentage grade scale.

Standards-Based Grading Standards-Based Grading (SBG) communicates how students perform on a set of clearly defined learning

goals called standards. The purpose of SBG is to identify what a student knows, or is able to do, in

relation to those learning goals - as opposed to simply averaging grades/scores over the course of the

grading period, which can mask what a student has learned or not learned.

Students at St. Mark receive grading feedback on every Learning Goal in the curriculum, not just a single

grade for each subject area. This specific feedback allows teachers, students and parents to get a clear

picture of each student’s areas of mastery, and areas needing more attention.

Students are learning all the time during every class. Teachers are assessing student learning all the time

during every class and are taking informal information all day long about what students are learning and

where they are struggling. This information is referred to as “Formative Assessment.” Formative

Assessment information is used in the classroom and will be recorded but not receive a grade in the

online gradebook. Instead, Formative Assessment information guides the student and teacher in their

instruction and learning. Formative Assessment examples include routine practice homework, class

discussions, small group work, performance on classroom assignments, and impromptu quizzes.

At some point in the teaching and learning process, it is time to determine exactly what each student has

learned, and to assign a mark or a grade to that learning. These grades are called “Summative

Assessments” and are graded in the online gradebook on TeacherEase within one week of the

Summative Assessment being given. The purpose of summative grades is to determine the level of

student learning at that particular time. We want to know what a student has learned at the end of a

learning period, not how much he or she struggled to get there. So, in Standards-Based Grading, when

you see a Summative grade, it is the grade that best describes the student’s level of learning at that

time.

On the quarterly Report Cards, there is an overall Achievement Grade for every single subject, as well

as Summative Grades for different areas of the curriculum in each subject area. Report Card grades are

determined by teachers looking at the student’s patterns of learning over the quarter, re-testing when

necessary, considering both Formative and Summative Assessments, and determining the student’s level

of learning at that time for the subject area.

Since student behaviors at school do not necessarily reflect a student’s level of learning in academic

subject areas, Effort and Conduct are reported on separately from academic achievement. Again, this

will give parents, students, and teachers important information about these critical life skills, class by

class.


Grading Scale for Standards Based Grading – Kindergarten-4th

Grade

Marking

Code

Translation Comments

4 Exceeding the grade level

standard.

Producing high quality

work consistently.

This grade will be reported when a student

demonstrates performance beyond expectations on a

consistent and independent basis.

3 Meeting the grade level

standard and producing

quality work consistently.

This grade means that a student consistently and

independently demonstrated mastery of subject

material. A 3 is considered an excellent grade, one that

a student should be working towards, as

developmentally appropriate.

2 Progressing toward the

standard. Producing the

required grade level work

with teacher direction and

assistance.

A 2 indicates that a student can meet expectations with

teacher assistance and support, but often does not

demonstrate consistent mastery in a set subject area or

grade level standard. The student may need to continue

developing a specific skill set, and progress is being

encouraged.

1 Beginning to develop the

standard. Not yet able to

produce required grade

level work.

A 1 will be reported if there is growing concern for a

child’s performance in a given subject, skill, or grade

level standard.

0 No evidence of learning. A 0 indicates that the teacher is not able to assess a

student’s level of learning due to lack of evidence, e.g.

projects or work missing or incomplete, lack of

participation.

NA Not Assessed This skill was not assessed.

T Taught but not graded This skill was taught but is not graded.


Grade Scale for 5th

-8th

grades A traditional scale is used in grades 5

th- 8

th

Grade Range of

Scores

A+ 100-98

A 97-95

A- 94-93

B+ 92-90

B 89-87

B- 86-85

C+ 84-83

C 82-79

C- 78-76

D+ 75-74

D 73-72

D- 71-70

F 69-59

Online Grades Parents may view student grades online at TeacherEase for grades K-8. Parents are encouraged to talk

directly with their students and teachers if there are any questions or concerns about academic progress.

Progress Notes

Teachers are asked to inform parents at the beginning of the year of their grading and homework

policies. Graded and returned work is an excellent way of noting each student’s progress. Parents are

asked to review graded work with their student on a regular basis. Music, PE, and computer teachers

will send out progress notes to students in grades 4-8 for conduct or academics only when a student is

in danger of failing or for poor conduct in that class. Parents have daily access to grades. It is the

teachers’ responsibility to keep the grade book updated and the parents/students’ responsibility to

monitor grades. Teachers make every effort to keep parents aware of progress.

Report Cards The school year is divided into four quarters consisting of approximately nine weeks. Report cards are

issued at the end of each quarter. Notice will be given in the newsletter as to when report cards will be

issued. Report cards and progress reports can be downloaded from the student information system.

www.teacherease.com Report cards and progress reports will only be printed if specially requested by

parents. The school reserves the right to hold report cards until all accounts are current.

Parent-Teacher Conferences First Quarter Parent-Teacher Conferences are held in the Fall. The First Quarter Conference is

mandatory for all parents/guardians. Parent-Teacher Conferences are also held throughout the school

year at the request of either the parent/guardian or the teacher. Parents/Guardians are required to attend

conferences requested by the teacher, the Principal, or the school counselor.


Additional parent conferences are scheduled as needed either at the request of the parent or teacher.

Teachers will contact parents as soon as possible if a noticeable problem appears either in academics or

in conduct. Parents should contact teachers promptly if a disturbing or questionable change is noticed in

the child or his/her schoolwork. Early corrective measures often lead to simple solutions.

Promotion and Retention

Students are advanced in grades based upon satisfactory completion of the required academic work for

the preceding level. Students are retained based upon unsatisfactory completion of the required

academic work for the preceding grade level. This decision, made after thorough consultation between

home and school, is based upon academic readiness, social and/or emotional readiness, and other

pertinent circumstances.

Standardized Testing Standardized testing for an elementary school student at St. Mark School consists of the following:

The Missouri Kindergarten Inventory of Development Skills Test (KIDS) is administered to

children who are applying for kindergarten prior to acceptance.

Standardized testing, which is done Archdiocesan-wide, is administered in late September to

Grades 3 - 8. The Iowa Assessment is used. Cognitive Ability Test (CoGat) is administered to

students in Grades 3-8 along with the Iowa Assessments. Results are made available to

parents/guardians at the First Quarter Parent Teacher Conferences.

The Assessment of Catholic Religious Education (ACRE) is given to 5th and 8th Grade

students to assess religious knowledge and attitudes. The Catholic Education Office sets the

dates for ACRE testing.

Cumulative Records

The school maintains a cumulative academic and health record for each student. Parents/Guardians have

the right to inspect and review the official active file of their student. This is accomplished by making an

appointment with the principal.

There will be no release of student records to other schools, institutions, agencies, or individuals without

the prior written consent of a parent/guardian, or the former student if age eighteen years or older.

Records are not released to parents/guardians or students but are transferred directly from the school to

the institution designated to receive them.

The right of school personnel to access the records of students is limited to those who have a legitimate

purpose for the information the record contains. In addition, the person must also have a professional

responsibility for a specific individual student or a clearly identified group of students. This includes

teachers, guidance counselors, administrators, and special education personnel.

Student discipline information is not part of the student's cumulative or permanent record file, and, as

such, is not included when parents authorize information to be provided to another school or agency.

Making this information available to any person or institution must only be done with the specific written

consent of the student's parent or guardian. This applies to both written and/or oral information.


Custody Agreements

All parents have the right to inspect and review their child’s academic record, in the absence of court

orders to the contrary. If parent’s custodial rights have been limited by a court of competent

jurisdiction, it is the duty of the custodial parent to provide the school with a verified copy of the court

order delineating the rights of the non-custodial parent.

A verified copy is a certified copy that verifies that it is the order currently in effect. Divorced,

separated or parents who have never been married and legal guardians are requested to furnish the

school with a certified copy of the custody orders and must indicate to school who is the residential

parent for school and mailing purposes. Please note that no records will be released where there is an

outstanding tuition balance.

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS

Process and Timeline: • Catholic High Schools in the Archdiocese of St. Louis host "High School Nights" at various locations

throughout the area during the month of September and October of each year. Students and parents/guardians

are invited to attend High School Nights to learn more about Catholic High Schools and what they have to

offer. Schedules for High School Nights are distributed to the students in early September.

• Most Catholic High Schools will conduct an Open House the first Sunday in November. Tours will be given

and personnel will be available to answer questions (schedule posted at www.archstl.org).

• 8th grade students (Seventh grade in the spring semester) and their parent/guardians are highly encouraged to

arrange visit days ("shadow days") with the individual high schools. These visits occur on school days during

regular class time and will be counted as an excused absence. Students are limited to two/year. A signed

parent request form must be submitted for the principal’s signature before the absence is excused.

• Eighth grade students apply to Catholic High Schools in mid-November. Applications and instructions are

sent home with each student.

• Between late November and late January, the school supplies the designated high school with a copy of the

student applicant's cumulative record and current report card. No letters of recommendation are written by the

Principal, faculty, or staff.

• Student and parents/guardians are informed of acceptance/non-acceptance in early February.

Parents/guardians wishing to have their student apply to a public district or an independent school for high

school placement need to personally contact those schools for their application process, procedures, and

timelines.

http://www.archstl.org/


PARENT INVOLVEMENT Volunteers At St. Mark School, we depend upon the generosity of parents who donate their time! During the year there

are a variety of opportunities for parents to assist in the development and continuity of the educational

program. Volunteers enable the school to provide greater services to our students. Help can be used in the

following areas:

Cafeteria Duty

Classroom Parties

Field Trip Chaperones

School Picture Day

Scholastic Book Fair

Grandparents Day

Field Day

Open House

Watch the weekly school newsletter, The Message, and teacher newsletters for announcements and volunteer

opportunities. Please remember that all volunteers must have taken Protecting God’s Children and have

a current background check on file.

Parent-Teacher Association The PTA is an organization designed to strengthen the relationship between home and school by providing

our parents with a means to gather, share information, and work together on school-related projects. All

parents/guardians are members of the PTA and are invited to attend PTA Meetings. Please refer to the school

calendar for PTA meeting dates and times.

St. Mark Catholic School Parent Witness Statement Realizing that the education of my child/children is a joint venture between parents and educators, I agree to

support the Pastor, Principal, and Faculty of St. Mark Catholic School in the following ways:

By making it possible for my child/children to attend Church services at our family place of worship.

By participating in the spiritual and social life of my parish.

By following all rules and regulations of the school, especially those regarding discipline, uniform

and appearance, attendance, and homework policies.

By fully complying with the terms of the tuition payment plan. If financial difficulties arise, I will

contact the Pastor to make arrangements for paying my tuition.

By promptly paying all Cafeteria, After-Care, and school-related fees. If financial difficulties arise, I

will contact the Pastor to make arrangements for paying my fees.

By participating in all required school meetings and functions such as, but not limited to, Sacramental

Preparation Sessions and Parent/Teacher Conferences.

By volunteering my time and talent through participation in school activities and functions.

By participating in school sponsored fund-raising activities.


MAINTAINING SCHOOL PRIVACY

St. Mark School understands that students/parents have access to technology that enables them to

record, either visually or audibly, a student of the school or a member of the school staff.

Out of respect for the students in our school, students and parents are not to publicly post any videos,

pictures or audio recordings of students at school events unless the student/parent(s) have the express

written permission from the school to do so. This includes, but is not limited to, online photo-sharing

and posting videos to YouTube or similar applications.

Additionally, in order to ensure the privacy of members of the school staff, students and parents are not

to record a member of the school staff without the express permission of the staff member. As such,

students and parents are prohibited from recording classroom lessons/discussions and are prohibited

from photographing or videotaping teachers without the teachers’ permission. Likewise, students and

parents shall not publicly post any videos, pictures or audio recordings of staff members unless the

student/parent(s) have the express written permission from the school staff member. This includes, but

is not limited to, online photo-sharing and posting videos to YouTube or similar applications.


APPENDIX

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

St. Mark Catholic School will follow the recommended policies and procedures on communicable

diseases established by the Missouri Department of Health.

RATIONALE

The prospect of a school-age child or faculty member attending school with a chronic infectious

disease raises concern among school administrators, pastors, teachers, and parents. Chronic infectious

diseases are such diseases as Herpes, AIDS, Hepatitis or Cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Catholic schools are institutions providing an environment where life and teachings of Christ can be

experienced and modeled by those in attendance. It is especially true, therefore, that in the Catholic

school’s compassion for the sick be evident as well as concern for their psychological and physical

well-being.

In addition, the school has an obligation to the common as well as the individual welfare of its pupils

and personnel. The general guidelines which follow take into account both of these factors.

GUIDELINES

1. Since the risk of transmission of these diseases in the school settings is quite low, the child should

be permitted to attend school in the least restrictive environment. The decision should be made by the

child’s physician, public health personnel, the child’s parent/guardian, pastor, and the school personnel

involved in the child’s care. The child’s physician may also recommend exclusion of the child when

infectious diseases are present in the building put the child at risk.

2. Although the organisms have been isolated from blood, semen, saliva, and tears, transmission has

only been documented through blood and semen. The child could attend school, in a regular classroom

setting using simple precautions with body fluids or blood.

3. In certain situations, persons involved in the care and education of children with these chronic

infections should respect the child’s right to privacy, including maintaining confidential records. Only

those persons who have a need to know (in order to assure proper care and to detect potential for

disease transmission) should be advised.


Dress Code Policy for St. Mark Catholic School

General uniform expectations:

o Uniforms must be clean, in good repair, and neat on a daily basis.

o Uniforms must be free of emblems and name brand markings.

o Undergarments must not show through the uniform (including the PE uniform).

o Absolutely no make-up or nail polish is allowed (with the exception of dress down days).

Artificial nails may not be worn.

o One pair of small earrings may be worn in the earlobe. Dangle, large hoops or multiple pairs of

earrings may not be worn. Cartlidge piercings are not allowed.

o Dyed hair, highlights, markings shaved into hair, distracting and exaggerated hair styles are not

allowed.

o Boys’ hair must be groomed, neat at all times, above the eyebrows, and above the collar.

o Simple and inconspicuous hair accessories for girls are allowed.

Although no policy can cover all issues, we expect the students of St. Mark Catholic School and their

parents/guardians to exhibit good judgement. It is understood that the faculty and administration will

decide what is acceptable attire and appearance for the students of St. Mark.

Students who are not in proper uniform in preschool-2nd

grade will bring a note home from the teacher

indicating the necessary uniform adjustments. Students in grades 3rd

-8th

will be written up on their

responsibility card. Parent’s may be contacted to bring a proper uniform to school depending on the

infraction or students may be required to change into a proper uniform from the supply of uniforms at

school.

Uniform items can be purchase from St. Louis Sportswear and Just Me Apparel.

EVERYONE

SHIRTS – White or red knit or nylon collared, golf shirts, plain with no pockets, but may have

Saint Mark’s logo. Red or white long-sleeved turtlenecks, plain or with approved Saint Mark’s

logo.

PANTS – Navy or skipper blue uniform-style pants may be pleated or flat front. Must have belt loops

and belt. (Cargo or other style pants are not allowed)

SHORTS – Navy or skipper blue uniform-style shorts of appropriate length (fingertip length or

longer), may be pleated or flat front. Must have belt loops and belt. May be worn April 1 through

October 31.

BELTS – Navy, brown or black belt with a plain buckle must be worn with shorts or pants.

SOCKS – Navy or royal blue, black, red or white socks, must be visible. Elite socks or similar brands

may be worn if all colors are a part of the established dress code.

SHOES – Leather below the ankle dress shoes in blue, black or brown. Tennis shoes in

predominantly black, blue, red, grey, or white. Mismatched or shoes with all an over design


(checked, polka dots, etc.) are not allowed. Laces must match the shoes and be properly tied with the

bow on top of the tongue of the shoe. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel.

SWEATER – White, Navy Blue, or Red cardigan or pull-over. NO HOODS.

SWEATSHIRTS – Approved, red Saint Mark’s sweatshirt from Saint Louis Sportswear or Just me

Apparel. Uniform shirt must be worn under sweatshirt with the collar showing. No hooded

sweatshirts even on free dress day.

P.E. UNIFORM – Required PE uniform must be purchased through St. Louis Sportswear.

Students must wear St. Mark Shorts/Gym Pants and St. Mark T-shirt for gym class. Gym pants may be worn during cold months. Tennis shoes are required. Kindergarten through third grade may

wear P.E. uniform all day on P.E. days. During cold months, the red Saint Mark’s sweatshirt may be worn. Only official PE uniform may be worn.

SCOUT UNIFORMS – May be worn in place of the school uniform on troop meeting days. Scout

uniforms must meet the requirement of neat in appearance and be tucked in throughout the day.

GIRLS

JUMPERS – School plaid, purchased from Just Me Apparel worn in grades K through 4. Shorts are

to be worn under jumpers or skirts. Shorts cannot be longer than the jumper or skirt and should not

be visible when standing. Girls may wear navy blue sweatpants under their jumper/skirt during the

winter months while outside. They may not be worn inside.

SKIRTS – School plaid, purchased from Just Me Apparel, worn in grades 5 through 8. Skirts are

not to be rolled at the waist and must be no shorter than 2” above knee length.

BLOUSES – Plain, white school blouses with a collar may be worn.

TIGHTS – May wear red, black, white or navy tights or leggings that are fitted to the ankle.

JEWELRY/MAKEUP – No excessive jewelry, only one pair of post earrings at a time may be

worn in the earlobe, cartilage piercings are not allowed, no makeup, no nail polish, no acrylic or

fake nails, and no tattoos. Nail polish and tattoos will be removed at the school office. Excessive

jewelry consists of but is not limited to oversized earrings, necklaces or multiple bands, bracelets,

etc.

BOYS

HAIR – Neatly trimmed above eyebrows and ears and at least one inch above the collar. No

shaved heads, dyed hair, lines or stripes. Haircuts are expected within three days of the dress code

violation. If not in compliance within seven days a meeting with the principal will be required.

JEWELRY – No excessive jewelry, no earrings and no tattoos.


DRESS DOWN DAY DRESS CODE:

On the occasion that a dress down day is permitted the following will be the guidelines for dress.

(Some dress down days are allowed as fundraisers. Children will be asked to bring in a small fee

to have an out of uniform pass.) *Guidelines for pants and shorts follow the school uniform schedule. Students may participate in dress down days by wearing appropriate casual clothing to school.

Appropriate casual clothing includes:

f. A shirt with or without a collar. No pictures or writing which are not appropriate to a Catholic

elementary school (mature ads, alcohol, drug related, rock bands, etc.) g. Jeans, only if they are in good condition and fit and are worn appropriately. h. Casual pants or shorts other than the uniform shorts that are neat looking and appropriate length. i. Skirts or dresses that are age appropriate in style and modesty j. All shirts, dresses, etc. must have sleeves.

Appropriate casual clothing does not include the following: 1. Oversized, baggy, ripped clothing 2. Tight, immodest pants or shirts including yoga pants and or leggings that are worn as pants. 3. No sleeveless shirts/blouses or dresses; shorts and skirts must be uniform length; shirts/blouses

must be long enough so that no torso is exposed.

4. Shirts with writing that is inappropriate or that advertises a product inappropriate for school age children such as cigarettes or alcohol. 5. Hats, or other accessories that are distracting to the academic atmosphere 6. Jewelry other than that allowed on regular uniform days. 7. High heels, clogs, flip-flops or platform shoes. Shoes must have a closed toe and heel unless

permission is given by the principal.

Revised April 2017.



Electronic Reader Permission Form

I authorize my child, to bring his/her

eReader to school with the understanding that it is to be used as a tool for reading only. All materials on an

eReader brought to school must comply with the educational objectives of the school. Accessing the internet is

not appropriate use of an eReader in school. An eReader is defined as a digital device whose primary function

is to store books and other print media. A device whose primary function is to communicate, or to play games,

but allows electronic books, would not be classified as an eReader under this definition.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I understand and agree that the school is not responsible for any damage

or loss of my child’s eReader, nor is it responsible for any costs incurred relating to downloading of content to

the device or access to any content providers through this device. I also understand that bringing an eReader to

school is a privilege that may be terminated at any time. I further understand that this privilege is designed for

educational purposes only and that a violation of this policy or any other technology use policy of the school

district may result in the child losing the privilege of bringing the eReader to school.

I also recognize that it is impossible for school staff to monitor all activity on personal eReaders and will not

hold the school district responsible for damages related to my child’s use of the eReader or for content viewed

by any student on the eReader, including via an internet connection.

Parent/Guardian Name: (Print)

Parent/Guardian Signature:

Date:

Make/Model of eReader:

Serial Number:


Internet and Electronic Device Acceptable Use Policy

Internet

Students at St. Mark have Internet services provided to them as a tool to obtain access to educational

resources. Students are guided in making good and safe choices. These are to be followed at all times.

These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Students will not give their or anyone else’s name, address, phone number, school name,

passwords or pictures to anyone on the internet without the approval of a faculty member.

Students will not go on unapproved sites-acceptable use does not include social networking or

messaging (including iPad Messaging, Facetime, and similar programs, on Apple, Android, or

other systems), email, picture-taking applications (including Instagram, Snapchat, and other

similar applications), or movie-creation software, unless at specific request of the teacher.

Students found (either presently or later) to have used these applications within school will be

subject to disciplinary action, per the St. Mark Student Handbook.

Students will not log into personal email during school hours.

Students will only be online during assigned times.

Students promise to minimize their screen or put down the lid of their Chromebook and

immediately inform a parent, administrator or teacher it they see anything in appropriate or

immoral online or if anyone makes me feel nervous or uncomfortable. Students will only use

appropriate language online.

Students will hold themselves to the highest academic standard and will cite sources of any

information found online and will not plagiarize any material.

Electronic Devices

Students are allowed to use school issued electronic devices at St. Mark School as long as students

and parents understand the school policy and consent form. It is our goal to ensure the ability of

students to use these devices for legitimate academic purposes while avoiding the potential for

distraction and abuse.

Students in grades 5-8 may bring in personal electronic readers that have had wi-fi or cellular

capabilities disabled. These may be used for reading purposes only.

Students may not use Apple Watches, iPods, trackers, or any device which resemble telephones in

size, or with camera, cellular or Wi-Fi capabilities.

Students with school issued Chrome Books must keep them under management domain of St.

Mark.

All activities which involve the use of the school internet and/or devices are monitored by the

technology administrator(s) and are subject to review at any time, and without warning, including

email sent through or to the users of the stmarkstl.com domain and network.

Teachers, staff, and administrators reserve the right to look at devices being used during school

hours if a concern about appropriate use is raised.

Teachers, staff, and administrators reserve the right to look at limit or prohibit the use of electronic

devices at any time, as they see fit.


As the primary educator of their children, parents assume the responsibility to teach and monitor

their child’s use of electronic devices outside of school hours.

Students with school issued Chrome Books will report any damages, as soon as possible.

The faculty, staff, and administration of St. Mark School are hereby not held liable for any damage

to personal electronics of any student, including, but not limited to: misplacement, physical

damage to the screen, case, or other elements, theft, computer virus, damage caused by liquids, or

damage caused by the mishandling of devices by any student. By electing to bring such a device

to school, the student and parent/guardians of the student assume all responsibility for the device.

I understand the rules outlined in the school acceptable use policy and will abide by them. Devices that

are misused or become a distraction in the classroom will be sent to the office and parents will be notified.

First Offense: The device and/or school issued technology cannot be used for one week.

Second Offense: The device and/or school issued technology cannot be used for one month.

Third Offense: The device will not be allowed the rest of the school year.

Parents and students will be required to meet with administration if these guidelines are not followed.

Student Signature: _____________________________________________

As the parent or legal guardian of the student signing above, I grant permission for my son or daughter to

use school-networked computers. I have read the above stated pledge and support the school’s standards

for the appropriate use of the Internet and electronic devices.

Parent Signature: ______________________________________________

Date: _________________________________________________________

Name of Student: ______________________________________________



FIELD TRIP CONSENT FORM

DEAR PARENT OR GUARDIAN,

YOUR SON/DAUGHTER IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN A SCHOOL SPONSORED FIELD TRIP TO

A LOCATION AWAY FROM THE SCHOOL BUILDING. THIS FIELD TRIP WILL TAKE PLACE

UNDER THE GUIDANCE AND SUPERVISION OF EMPLOYEES FROM ST. MARK CATHOLIC

SCHOOL. A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTIVITY FOLLOWS:

FIELD TRIP:

DATE OF EVENT:

RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL:

DEPARTURE TIME:

(Leaving St. Mark)

ARRIVAL TIME:

(Estimated return to school)

TRANSPORTATION:

STUDENT COST:

PARENT/STUDENT NOTE:

IIF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR CHILD TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT, PLEASE COMPLETE, SIGN,

AND RETURN THE STATEMENT OF CONSENT AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY.

AS PARENT/GUARDIAN, I GIVE PERMISSION FOR MY CHILD:

NAME OF CHILD

TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ABOVE-NAMED FIELD TRIP, I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS ACTIVITY

WILL TAKE PLACE AWAY FROM SCHOOL GROUNDS AND THAT MY CHILD WILL BE UNDER

THE SUPERVISION OF THE DESIGNATED SCHOOL EMPLOYEE NAMED. I FURTHER CONSENT TO

THE METHOD OF TRANSPORTATION AND I ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PERSONAL

ACTIONS TAKEN BY MY CHILD DURING THIS ACTIVITY.

PLEASE PRINT PARENT/GUARDIAN NAME EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER

PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE DATE

PLEASE RETURN THIS ENTIRE FORM TO SCHOOL OFFICE BY

Primary Behavior Sheet

Student Name: _______________________________

Week: _______________ Monday

I did not receive a stamp

because I struggled with the following rules:

□ Follows directions.

□ Listens when others

are speaking.

□ Keeps hands, feet,

and objects to

themselves.

□ Stays on task.

□ Demonstrates safe

behavior in the school

environment.

□ Uses kind words and

actions toward others.

Parent initial:

Comments:

Tuesday





are speaking.


and objects to

themselves.

□ Stays on task.



environment.



Parent initial:

Comments:

Wednesday





are speaking.


and objects to

themselves.

□ Stays on task.



environment.



Parent initial:

Comments:

Thursday





are speaking.


and objects to

themselves.

□ Stays on task.



environment.



Parent initial:

Comments:

Friday





are speaking.


and objects to

themselves.

□ Stays on task.



environment.



Parent initial:

Comments:

Additional Comments:

Uh-Oh! We talked about a rule today!

Name: __________________________________ Date: ____________________

The rule that we discussed today is circled.

Comments:

__________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Our plan to do better next time: ____________________________________________________

*Child Signature: __________________________________________________

*Parent Signature: _______________________________________________

Follows Directions

Listens when others

are speaking

Demonstrates

safe behavior

Stays on task

Uses kind words

and actions

Keeps hands, feet, and objects to

themselves

Card #_____

_______________________________’s Responsibility Card

1 I am not in full uniform.

2 I have not turned in my completed homework.

3 I did not bring the necessary supplies needed to complete my work.

4 I needed consistent reminders to complete my classwork.

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

Card #_____

_______________________________’s Behavior Card

1 I am not showing respect for myself, my class, and my teacher.

2 I am not demonstrating safe behavior in the school environment.

3 I am not following my class or school rules.

4 I am not socializing at appropriate times and am disrupting the learning environment.

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

____ ______________________________________________________

3RD

AND 4TH

Grade Responsibility and Behavior Cards

Card #_____ Behavior Card

I, , am a member of St. Mark Catholic School, where students enter to learn and go forth to serve.

1 Disrespectful Behavior

2 Disruptive Behavior

3 Dishonest Behavior

4 No Responsibility Card/Refusal to Give Card

Date Violation & Explanation Signature

____ __________________________________________ _____________

____ __________________________________________ _____________

____ __________________________________________ _____________

Card #_____ Responsibility Card

I, , am a member of St. Mark Catholic School, where students enter to learn and go forth to serve.

1 Violation of Dress Code

2 Unprepared for Class

3 No Homework

4 Not Following Directions

Date Violation & Explanation Signature ____ ________________________________________________ _____________ ____ ________________________________________________ _____________ ____ ________________________________________________ _____________ ____ ________________________________________________ _____________ ____ ________________________________________________ _____________

5th

- 8th

Grade Responsibility and Behavior Cards



HEAD LICE POLICY

1. All suspected cases of head lice must be reported to the school office. Symptoms of head lice

include severe itching behind the ears and on the neck, although some people may not be

symptomatic.

2. The class affected will be notified through a written alert to parents who should check for

symptoms and report any additional cases.

3. If additional cases are reported, the Principal will determine the need for a general screening of

students involved and/or the entire school, as needed.

4. Children found with head lice will be SENT HOME IMMEDIATELY.

5. Children must be treated with the proper medication and must have all nits removed before they

can return to school.

6. Upon return to school the child will be inspected by designee(s) of the Principal before being

readmitted in the class.

7. This “no nit” policy is recommended by the St. Louis County Health Department and will be

enforced.



INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY/ONLINE PLEDGE

A safe environment for all members of the school community is the hallmark of St. Mark Catholic School. This

is accomplished, in part, by fostering a climate based on Gospel values that emphasize the dignity of and respect

for all persons. Words, actions, or depictions which violate the privacy, safety, or good name of others are

inconsistent with that goal. Whether occurring within or outside of school, when students jeopardize the safe

environment or act contrary to those Gospel values they can be subject to disciplinary action by the school.

This policy applies to communications or depictions through e-mail, text messages, or website postings, whether

they occur through the school's equipment or connectivity resources or through private communications, which:

(1) Are of a sexual nature; (2) threaten, libel, slander, malign, disparage, harass or embarrass members of

the school community or (3) in the principal’s discretion, cause harm to the school, or the school

community (collectively referred to as “Inappropriate Electronic Conduct”). Inappropriate Electronic

Conduct shall be subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences, including withdrawal for cause.

St. Mark believes in the educational value of such electronic services and recognizes the potential of such to

support our curriculum and student learning. Our goal in providing these services is to promote educational

excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

St. Mark will make every effort to protect students from any misuses or abuses during their experiences with

this information service.

Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in the classroom.

School rules for behavior and communication apply. Students will not be allowed to participate or enter chat

rooms or use instant messengers.

To insure a beneficial and quality experience to all, students are required to adhere to the following criteria for

acceptable use:

Students must act with RESPECT

Respect for others by using appropriate language.

Respect for the privacy of others; this includes their passwords, folders, work, and files.

Respect for the property of others such as computers, computer systems, computer networks, and copyright.

Respect for the time and resources available by not wasting them.

Telecommunications, electronic information sources and networked services can significantly alter the

information landscapes for schools by opening classrooms to a broader array of resources. The benefits of

access to students, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed the

disadvantages.

The use of the information system is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use may result in disciplinary action

and/or denial of this privilege. Student use of telecommunications and electronic information resources will be

permitted upon submission of the Student Online Pledge. If the Online Pledge is not signed, students will not be

allowed to access the Internet.


MEDICAL CONSENT FORM

Parental Consent for Medication Administration to their Child

Date: School:

Student: Grade:

My child is to receive medication according to the

physician’s directions given for .

This treatment will last .

My child has drug allergies.

I give my permission for this medication to be administered to my child at school. The school has my

permission to call the physician with any questions regarding the medication.

I understand and acknowledge that any medication administered to my child during school will more than likely

not be administered by a registered nurse or other medical professional. In consideration of the school

administering medication to my child pursuant to this authorization, I hereby release and hold harmless the

school, the Archdiocese of St. Louis, and their employees, agents or representative, from any liability that may

arise from administering medication to my child.

Signature:

Relationship to student:

Physician Contact Information:

Physician Consent for Medication Administration

Date: Name of Student:

Medication: Dose:

Time Interval:

Diagnosis or reason for treatment:

Side Effects to look for:

Restrictions:

Signature:


MEDICATION POLICY

Dispensing Medication at School

1. School personnel will not dispense medication of any kind to a student in school, unless acting under a

direct order signed and properly filed, of a licensed physician and with the written permission of the

parent to dispense medication. School personnel will not administer the first dose of any medication.

The parent or guardian must provide written permission forms found in the Family Handbook

requesting that non-prescription medication be administered during school hours. Non-prescription

medication should be in the original container. All medication sent to the school will be kept in a secure

place under the supervision of the Administration. Cardinal Glennon Hospital staff will train school

personnel who administer medication. Accurate documentation will be kept on file.

2. If a student must carry an inhaler with him/her, a parental consent form, a physician’s order, a Student

Asthma action Card/Emergency Plan, and an Inhaler Procedures Form, must be completed and on file in

the school office. These forms are to be resubmitted at the beginning of each school year.

3. Written orders from the physician should include:

a. name of student

b. name of medication

c. dosage

d. time, interval the medication is to be given (If the medication is to be given as needed, a plan of

when to give it is required.)

e. duration of treatment

f. diagnosis or reason for medication g. drug allergies of student

4. The medication must be in properly labeled container. 5. The school will not be responsible for the administration of the medication unless an additional metered

dose inhaler is provided and stored at school.

6. The student must restrict the availability of the medication to other students. The school staff has the

right to confiscate the medication if they question the students’ use of it. The parent and/or guardian

should be notified if the medication is confiscated.

If there is any change in the dose or timing of the medication, the physician must submit the change in writing.

This may be faxed (743-8690) or mailed to the school. A parent may not give permission to administer

medication differently from the physician’s order. The school may request from the parent the right to call the

physician to clarify a medication order.

Parents of those students with significant or potentially life threatening medical conditions must provide St.

Mark School with the information necessary to understand the condition, its manifestations in the school setting,

and any specific adjustments or plans for an emergency response which may be necessary in order to provide the

student with a healthy and safe environment.

Students may not carry prescription or over-the-counter medication on their person, excluding Chapstick.


PRIVATE VEHICLE TRANSPORTATION

Whenever possible, bus transportation by an insured carrier will be provided. If there are not a

sufficient number of students attending an off-campus school sanctioned event to warrant a bus, a

private vehicle may be used.

If a private passenger vehicle is used, the following criteria will be followed:

1. Drivers must have a valid, non-probationary driver’s license and no physical disability that may

impair the ability to drive safely.

2. The vehicle should have a valid registration and meet state safety requirements.

3. The vehicle must be insured for a minimum limit of $100,000 per person and $300,000 for

occurrence.

4. Drivers should be experienced drivers and demonstrate the maturity necessary to provide for the

safety of those they are transporting.

5. Any vehicle used to transport students should have one safety belt per rider in the vehicle.

All drivers and chaperones will be given a copy or the criteria and a copy of the approved itinerary

including the route(s) to be followed and a summary of their responsibilities.

In the event a private passenger vehicle will be used for an educational field trip, the regular Field Trip

Consent Form will be used.


SUSPENSION POLICY

The principal may suspend a student from school for a specified period of time. Some serious offenses

that might warrant suspension would be:

An individual infraction of a major school rule;

Disrespect of authority;

Repeated truancy;

Repeated infractions of school rules;

Disruption of the learning environment;

Theft, cheating, vandalism, and/or destruction of school property or the personal property of

students, staff or others;

Harassment, threats, or physical acts against others;

Out of school conduct which seriously detracts from the reputation of the school.

The principal may use discretion in determining when suspension is necessary after interviewing the

student(s) and consulting with other staff members. The following procedures are to be followed when

suspension occurs:

1.) Principal will meet with student to determine length of suspension.

2.) Parents will receive verbal notification of suspension.

3.) Parents will receive written notification of suspension. This statement is to be signed by the

parents/guardians indicating that they understand and accept the terms of the suspension. A

copy will be given to the parent/guardian.

4.) Copies will be placed in school file.

5.) Pastor will receive verbal notification.

6.) Principal will communicate to student and parents the process for and condition for student

return and the procedure for student making up class work.

Students will be asked to make up all missed work. The highest grade that may be given for work

done during a suspension will be an “F” or 69%, work done that receives a lower grade will be

recorded as that grade.

Students will be asked to leave the school premises for suspension when they have perpetrated acts of

violence or when the principal feels that the student needs to be removed from school due to a major

infraction of school rules or when blatant disrespect for authority is shown. Students should not

participate in sports or extracurricular activities during suspension or probation.

PROBATION

Probation is the continued enrollment of a student, but with specified conditions. The decision to use

probation as a disciplinary action is made by the principal in consultation with the pastor. Probation

will be used when other disciplinary actions have not satisfactorily improved behavior and/or the

students’ action has been of a very serious nature.


WITHDRAWL FOR CAUSE (EXPULSION) POLICY

There may be times when a student should be removed from school permanently. The decision to

permanently remove a child is made at the local level by the school pastor.

Students may be permanently removed from school after a period of suspension or formal probation

and the consequences of further infractions are clearly communicated to both student and

parents/guardians or an extremely serious conduct violation or action contrary to the mission and

purpose of a Catholic School has occurred:

Verbal/physical assault on staff or another student

Possession of a weapon on school property

Possession or distribution of a controlled substance

Serious acts of harassment

Repeated suspensions

Immoral behavior

Engaging in public behavior or taking a public position contrary to Church teachings

Withdrawal for cause is the most serious means of dealing with a discipline problem. If a child’s

behavior presents a severe threat to the physical and/or moral well-being of his/her fellow students, a

student may be subject to permanent removal.

A student will be placed on indefinite suspension by the principal until a conference is held with the

pastor, principal, and parents. The principal will consult with staff members, students, or others to

obtain information about the students’ behavior leading up to consideration of withdrawal for cause.

The Catholic Education Office and the parents will be notified of the circumstances and

recommendation of withdrawal for cause. (Archdiocesan policy #4603) Notification of withdrawal

for cause will be placed in the students’ cumulative record.


VIOLENCE AND THE THREAT OF VIOLENCE

St. Mark School will provide a safe learning environment for all members of the school community.

The climate of St. Mark School will reflect Gospel values including an emphasis on the dignity of all

persons which is necessary for respect, the interdependence of all persons that is the basis of

community, and the rights and responsibilities of all persons which are the foundation of justice.

Violence is inconsistent with the unity and peace which are essential to living the Catholic faith in

community. Violence also inhibits human development and successful learning. Therefore, violence is

not tolerated at St. Mark School.

Violence consists of words, gestures, and actions that result in or have the potential to result in hurt,

fear, or injury. Violence includes threats of injury, harassment; assault, possession, and/or use of a

weapon; and theft or vandalism of property.

A weapon is anything used or intended to be used to threaten, intimidate, and/or harm persons. The

possession or use of firearms, other weapons, or explosive devices on school/parish premises is not

permitted.

All reported or observed instances of threatened or actual violence will be addressed by the school

administration. Appropriate actions may include parent/guardian conferences, mandatory counseling,

suspension, withdrawal for cause, and legal actions depending upon the severity of the incident.


WITNESS STATEMENT: CALLED TO BE CATHOLIC For students who attend Catholic Schools and Parish

Schools of Religion

PRE-KINDERGARTEN AND KINDERGARTEN

Graced and blessed by God, I am called to respond to God’s gifts by living the life of a Catholic

Christian. Catholic School/Parish School of Religion will help me grow in the Catholic Faith. I believe

that:

GOD LOVES ME.

I LOVE GOD.

GOD MADE EVERYTHING GOOD. I WILL PRAISE AND THANK GOD.

GOD MADE ME SPECIAL. I WILL ACT AS A CHILD OF GOD.

GOD MADE ME PART OF HIS FAMILY. I WILL BE KIND TO ALL OF GOD’S FAMILY.


WITNESS STATEMENT: CALLED TO BE CATHOLIC

For students who attend Catholic Schools and Parish

Schools of Religion

GRADES 1-2



that:

GOD LOVES ME. I PROMISE TO LOVE GOD BY:

• LEARNING ABOUT JESUS AND HIS LOVE FOR ME.

• PRAYING EVERY DAY.

• SPEAKING GOD’S NAME WITH RESPECT.

GOD CREATED ME. I PROMISE TO LIVE AS A CHILD OF GOD BY:

• OBEYING MY PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND TEACHERS.

• BEING HONEST AND TRUTHFUL.

• DOING WHAT IS RIGHT.

GOD MADE ME PART OF HIS FAMILY. I PROMISE TO LOVE OTHERS BY:

• BEING RESPECTFUL OF OTHERS.

• HELPING OTHERS IN NEED.

• BEING KIND AND INCLUDING OTHERS WHEN I PLAY.




Schools of Religion GRADES 3-4-5



that:


• PARTICIPATING IN THE MASS AND SACRAMENTS, ESPECIALLY

SUNDAY EUCHARIST.

• SPENDING TIME PRAYING EACH DAY.

• LEARNING MORE ABOUT GOD’S LOVE FOR ME AND THE

TEACHINGS OF JESUS.

• RESPECTING GOD’S NAME AND HIS CHURCH.


• LEARNING WHAT JESUS EXPECTS OF ME.

• RESPECTING MY BODY AS A GIFT FROM GOD.

• BEING A PERSON WHO IS TRUTHFUL AND FAIR.

• BECOMING THE BEST PERSON THAT I CAN BE.


• HELPING OTHERS WHEN I KNOW THEY ARE IN NEED.

• GIVING GOOD EXAMPLE AS JESUS DID.

• PAYING ATTENTION TO THE WISDOM AND GUIDANCE OF MY

PARENTS/GUARDIANS, TEACHERS AND CHURCH.

• BEING RESPECTFUL AND NOT HURTING OTHERS OR MAKING

FUN OF THEM.




Schools of Religion GRADES 6-7-8



that:


• STUDYING ABOUT GOD—FATHER, SON, AND HOLY SPIRIT—AND HIS CHURCH.

• PARTICIPATING IN THE MASS AND SACRAMENTS, ESPECIALLY SUNDAY EUCHARIST.

• DEVELOPING MY LOVE FOR JESUS CHRIST THROUGH DAILY PRAYER.

• FOLLOWING THE COMMANDMENTS AND BEATITUDES.

• READING SACRED SCRIPTURE TO HELP ME UNDERSTAND GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION.


• TREATING MY BODY AS A TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

• BEING A PERSON WHO, LIKE MARY, IS A TRUSTED FOLLOWER OF JESUS CHRIST.

• TAKING MORE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY LEARNING AND BEHAVIOR.

• VALUING MY SELF AND DEVELOPING MY GIFTS.

• LIVING THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.


• SHARING MY CATHOLIC BELIEFS WITH OTHERS AND HELPING THEM LIVE RESPONSIBLY.

• RESPECTING ALL PERSONS, PLACES AND THINGS AS GIFTS FROM GOD.

• GROWING IN COMPASSION BY SERVING THOSE IN NEED.

• BEING A FRIEND LIKE JESUS TO THOSE WHO HAVE NONE.

• WORKING WITH OTHERS TO HELP MAKE ST. MARK SCHOOL AND PARISH A BETTER PLACE.

st. mark catholic school · up to keep god’s commandments as christ taught us, by loving god and...

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