stephen catholic school family handbook st… · teach me lord to love you may each task i do and...
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ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL FAMILY HANDBOOK
UPDATED JULY 2018
CATHOLIC FAITH-BASED EDUCATION | RIGOROUS ACADEMICS NURTURING COMMUNITY | REINFORCEMENT OF FAMILY VALUES
414 S. Hyland Park Drive Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Phone 970.945.7746 | Fax 970.945.1208 www.scsglenwood.org | [email protected]
ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL FAMILY HANDBOOK PAGE 2 UPDATED APRIL 2018
Dear St. Stephen Families,
“What greater work is there than training the mind and forming the habits of the young?”
St. John Chrysostrom
Welcome to St. Stephen Catholic School! In freely choosing St. Stephen Catholic school, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic education.
The Handbook reflects the policies of St. Stephen Catholic School. Please read this document carefully and sign and return the attached acknowledgement to reflect your intention to abide by the policies of St. Stephen Catholic School.
The faculty and staff of St. Stephen Catholic School look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church. Together let us pray that God, who has begun this good work in us, may carry it through to completion.
This year’s theme is Corinthians 16:14 “Let all that you do be done in love.”
Let’s share the good news of St. Stephen Catholic School to everyone we meet. We have a fantastic school! Let’s tell the world!
God bless you,
Mrs. Glenda Oliver Principal
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QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
Click below to jump to few frequently referenced topics.
Absence Procedures
Field Trip Policies
Mobile Devices
School Hours
Uniform Code and Policy
TABLE OF CONTENTS
About Our School ................................................................................................................................................... 7
Right to Amend .................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Hearts and Hands for God ................................................................................................................................................... 7 St. Stephen Catholic School Song ........................................................................................................................................ 7 History ................................................................................................................................................................................. 8 School Information .............................................................................................................................................................. 8 Administration ..................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Accreditation and Licensing – Policy No. 1010 .................................................................................................................... 8 School Mission Statement ................................................................................................................................................... 8 School Vision Statement...................................................................................................................................................... 8 Archdiocese of Denver Mission Statement ......................................................................................................................... 9 Basic Philosophy of St. Stephen Catholic School ................................................................................................................. 9 Core Values ........................................................................................................................................................................ 10 Goals .................................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Special Features ................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Accreditation ..................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Prayer and Daily Religious Exercises ................................................................................................................................. 11 School Colors and Mascot ................................................................................................................................................. 11 Liability Insurance Information ......................................................................................................................................... 11 Use‐Of‐Name – Policy No. 1050 ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Interpretation of Policies ‐ Policy No. 1510 ....................................................................................................................... 12 Parents Code of Conduct ....................................................................................................................................... 12
Parents as Partners ............................................................................................................................................................ 12 Parent’s Role in Education ................................................................................................................................................ 12 Honor Code .......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Purpose of the Honor Code ............................................................................................................................................... 13 Honor Code ....................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Academic and Honor Code Violations ............................................................................................................................... 13 Attendance and Absences ..................................................................................................................................... 14 Student Attendance ‐ Policy No. 2120 .............................................................................................................................. 14 Absence Procedures .......................................................................................................................................................... 14 Excused Absences .............................................................................................................................................................. 14 Unexcused Absences ......................................................................................................................................................... 15 Absence During the School Day ........................................................................................................................................ 15 Tardies ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Classroom Conduct ............................................................................................................................................................ 15 Student Withdrawal ‐ Policy No. 2630 .............................................................................................................................. 15 Academic Policies and Expectations ...................................................................................................................... 15 Grade Notification ............................................................................................................................................................. 15 Grading System ................................................................................................................................................................. 15
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Homework ......................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Homework due to Vacations/Planned Absences .............................................................................................................. 16 Homework Policy Due to Illness ........................................................................................................................................ 16 Honor Roll Requirements .................................................................................................................................................. 17 Report Cards ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Late Work Policy ................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Tutoring Policy and Academic Support ............................................................................................................................. 17 Before and After School ........................................................................................................................................ 17 School Hours ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Arrival/Tardiness ............................................................................................................................................................... 17 Morning Drop‐Off .............................................................................................................................................................. 18 Afternoon Dismissal and Pick‐Up Procedures ................................................................................................................... 18 Cancellation of School ....................................................................................................................................................... 18 Locked Doors ..................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Permission to Leave the School or School Grounds .......................................................................................................... 18 Returning to School After Dismissal .................................................................................................................................. 18 After School Program and Homework Help Program ....................................................................................................... 18 General Rules and Guidelines................................................................................................................................ 19 Bicycles .............................................................................................................................................................................. 19 Gum ................................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Gifts and Invitations .......................................................................................................................................................... 19 Animals in the Classroom .................................................................................................................................................. 19 Classroom Parties .............................................................................................................................................................. 19 Lunch Program .................................................................................................................................................................. 19 Milk Program ..................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Signs and Posters ............................................................................................................................................................... 19 Social Activities – Policy No. 2700 ..................................................................................................................................... 19 Playground and Facilities ...................................................................................................................................... 20 Recess Policies ................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Playground Rules ............................................................................................................................................................... 20 Snow Play and Sledding Rules ........................................................................................................................................... 21 Athletic Programs .............................................................................................................................................................. 21 Use of School and Parish Center Facilities ........................................................................................................................ 21 Off‐Limit Areas................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Loitering in the Vicinity of School ...................................................................................................................................... 22 Property and Equipment ....................................................................................................................................... 22 Equipment Usage .............................................................................................................................................................. 22 Destroyed Property ........................................................................................................................................................... 22 Locker Assignments ‐ Middle School ................................................................................................................................. 22 Locker Searches – Middle School ...................................................................................................................................... 22 Lost and Found .................................................................................................................................................................. 22 School Property ................................................................................................................................................................. 22 School Supplies .................................................................................................................................................................. 22 Valuables ........................................................................................................................................................................... 22 Searches of Students and Schools ‐ Policy No. 2300 ......................................................................................................... 23 Conduct Expectations and Resolution ................................................................................................................... 23 Conduct ............................................................................................................................................................................. 23 School Atmosphere ........................................................................................................................................................... 23 Controversial Issues ‐ Policy No. 4300 ............................................................................................................................... 23 Order to Resolution of Differences and Conflicts ............................................................................................................. 24 Recognition of Local Authority .......................................................................................................................................... 24 Political Issues ‐ Policy No. 4310 ....................................................................................................................................... 24 Appeal Process .................................................................................................................................................................. 24
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Out of Uniform Notification Procedures ........................................................................................................................... 25 Counselor........................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Discipline ............................................................................................................................................................. 25
Types of Discipline ............................................................................................................................................................. 25 Restorative Justice Program .............................................................................................................................................. 25 Soar High with the Eagles Program ................................................................................................................................... 26 Detention ........................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Probation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion ............................................................................................................................... 26 Withdrawal for Discipline Reasons .................................................................................................................................... 27 Transfer on Grounds of Parental Behavior ........................................................................................................................ 27 Harassment, Discrimination and Bullying .............................................................................................................. 27 Inappropriate Student-to-Student Interaction ‐ Policy No. 2610 ..................................................................................... 27 The Archdiocesan Harassment Policy No. 3420 ................................................................................................................ 27 Student‐to‐Student Harassment Policy ............................................................................................................................. 27 Examples of Prohibited Conduct ....................................................................................................................................... 28 Foreign Students Enrollment ‐ Policy No. 2010 ................................................................................................................. 28 Notice of Student Non-Discrimination Policy .................................................................................................................... 28 Nondiscrimination Statement in Publications and Other USDA Public Program Documents .......................................... 28 Assurance Statement of Compliance with the Purposes of Title IX Education Act ........................................................... 28 Incident Reporting ............................................................................................................................................................. 28 Harassment Counseling ..................................................................................................................................................... 28 Responsibility upon Learning of a Possible Harassment Offense ..................................................................................... 29 Intervention ....................................................................................................................................................................... 29 Bullying and Cyberbullying ................................................................................................................................................ 30 Students Under Court Order or Released on Bail ‐ Policy No. 2580 ................................................................................. 30 Tobacco, Alcohol and Other Drugs ‐ Policy No. 2620 ........................................................................................................ 30 Weapons in School ‐ Policy No. 2621 ................................................................................................................................ 30 Technology and Communications .......................................................................................................................... 31
Student Acceptable Use Policy (Electronic Media) ........................................................................................................... 31 Communications ............................................................................................................................................................... 32 E‐Mail and Internet Use ‐ Policy No. 4030 ........................................................................................................................ 32 Social Media ...................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Sycamore Education System ............................................................................................................................................. 33 Directory ............................................................................................................................................................................ 33 Messages ........................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Office Phone ...................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Student Cellular Phones and Electronic Devices ............................................................................................................... 33 St. Stephen School Emergency Notification System ......................................................................................................... 34 Procedures to Enable Emergency Notification System ..................................................................................................... 34 Appointments and Visitors ................................................................................................................................... 34 Appointments with the Principal ...................................................................................................................................... 34 Appointments with the Teacher ....................................................................................................................................... 34 Identification Badges ......................................................................................................................................................... 34 Classroom Observations and Visits by Parents ................................................................................................................. 34 Contact with Students During School Hours ..................................................................................................................... 34 Administrative Information .................................................................................................................................. 35 Background Investigations – Policy No. 3140 ................................................................................................................... 35 Classroom Selection .......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Transfers ............................................................................................................................................................................ 35 Change of Residence or Contact Information ................................................................................................................... 35 Student Permanent Records – Policy No. 2320 ................................................................................................................ 36 Subpoena of Records ‐ Policy No. 2330............................................................................................................................. 36
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Access to Student Records .................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. Child Custody Issues ‐ Policy No. 2140 .............................................................................................................................. 36 Substitute Teachers ........................................................................................................................................................... 37 Supervision of Students ..................................................................................................................................................... 37 Emergency Drills ................................................................................................................................................................ 37 Emergency Procedures – Policy No. 1300 ......................................................................................................................... 37 Volunteering and Fund-Raising ............................................................................................................................. 38 Required Service Hours ..................................................................................................................................................... 38 Opt Out Option of Volunteer/Service Hours ..................................................................................................................... 39 Tracking of Service Hours .................................................................................................................................................. 39 Reconciliation of Service Hours ......................................................................................................................................... 39 Fund Raising Projects ‐ Policy No. 5040 ............................................................................................................................ 39 Fund Raising / School Volunteer Hours ‐ Policy No. 5090 ................................................................................................. 39 No Fund Raising Revenue – Policy No. 5050 ..................................................................................................................... 39 Field Trip Policies .................................................................................................................................................. 40
Field Trips .......................................................................................................................................................................... 40 Field Trip Chaperone Requirements.................................................................................................................................. 40 Volunteer Drivers Requirements ....................................................................................................................................... 40 Cellular Phone Use When Volunteering ............................................................................................................................ 41 Curriculum Information ........................................................................................................................................ 41 Textbooks and Resources to Support the Curriculum ‐ Policy No. 4020 .......................................................................... 41 Religious Education ........................................................................................................................................................... 41 Religious Observations ...................................................................................................................................................... 41 Kindergarten Curriculum ................................................................................................................................................... 42 Language Arts Curriculum ................................................................................................................................................. 42 Math Curriculum ............................................................................................................................................................... 42 Science Curriculum ............................................................................................................................................................ 42 Science Fair ........................................................................................................................................................................ 42 Social Studies Curriculum .................................................................................................................................................. 43 Physical Education Curriculum .......................................................................................................................................... 43 Art Curriculum ................................................................................................................................................................... 43 Music Curriculum .............................................................................................................................................................. 43 Technology Curriculum ..................................................................................................................................................... 43 Academic Probation .......................................................................................................................................................... 43 Co‐Curricular Programs ..................................................................................................................................................... 43 Library Usage ..................................................................................................................................................................... 43 Textbooks .......................................................................................................................................................................... 44 Graduation/Continuation – Policy No. 2460 ..................................................................................................................... 44 Responsibilities and Duties of Teachers ................................................................................................................. 44 Standardized Testing Program .......................................................................................................................................... 45 Parent/Teacher Conference Information .......................................................................................................................... 45 Conference Preparation .................................................................................................................................................... 46 Promotion and Retention .................................................................................................................................................. 46 Special Education Services ................................................................................................................................................ 47 Summer School .................................................................................................................................................................. 47 Reporting Child Abuse and/or Neglect ‐ Policy No. 2200 .................................................................................................. 47 Health Related Services & Activities ...................................................................................................................... 47 Accidents and Illness at School Policy ............................................................................................................................... 48 Allergy policy ..................................................................................................................................................................... 48 Certificates of Immunization ‐ Policy No. 2080 ................................................................................................................. 49 Concussion Guidelines – Policy No. 2190 .......................................................................................................................... 49 Communicable Diseases .................................................................................................................................................... 50 Doctor and Dentist Appointments .................................................................................................................................... 50
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Fever .................................................................................................................................................................................. 50 Food Allergy Guidelines ..................................................................................................................................................... 50 Hearing Screening ............................................................................................................................................................. 51 Illness or Accident ............................................................................................................................................................. 51 Medications at School ....................................................................................................................................................... 51 Pediculosis (lice) ................................................................................................................................................................ 52 Reporting Child Abuse and/or Neglect .............................................................................................................................. 52 Letter Stating the School’s Asbestos Management Plan................................................................................................... 52 Uniform Code and Policy ...................................................................................................................................... 52 Uniform Guidelines ........................................................................................................................................................... 53 Spirit Wear Days ................................................................................................................................................................ 53 Jersey/Scout Days .............................................................................................................................................................. 53 Dress Down Days ............................................................................................................................................................... 54 Girls Uniform Code – Kindergarten ................................................................................................................................... 55 Boys Uniform Code – Kindergarten ................................................................................................................................... 56 Girls Uniform Code – Grades 1 through 5 ......................................................................................................................... 57 Boys Uniform Code – Grades 1 through 5 ......................................................................................................................... 58 Girls Uniform Code – Grades 6 through 7 ......................................................................................................................... 59 Boys Uniform Code – Grades 6 through 7 ......................................................................................................................... 61 Girls Uniform Code – Grade 8 ........................................................................................................................................... 62 Boys Uniform Code – Grade 8 ........................................................................................................................................... 63 Leadership Uniform Code .................................................................................................................................................. 80 Appendix .............................................................................................................................................................. 81 Appendix A ‐ Field Trip Permission Form (School to Parent) ............................................................................................ 81 Appendix B ‐ Medical Release Form .................................................................................................................................. 82 Appendix C ‐ Student Agreement & Parent Permission Form for Electronic Media ......................................................... 83 Appendix D - Soar with the Eagles Discipline Notification Samples .................................................................................. 84 Appendix E ‐ Colorado’s Child Passenger Safety Law ........................................................................................................ 85 Appendix F ‐ Media Waiver / Parent Consent Form ......................................................................................................... 90
Appendix G -SSCS Virtues In Practice……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………91
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ABOUT OUR SCHOOL
RIGHT TO AMEND The Family Handbook is designed to serve as a resource manual. The handbook is the official document of parent/student/school operations and is therefore written as a legal document for most issues. It is with this in mind that the information contained herein is subject to modification, change, interpretation and elimination at any time at the school’s discretion. The Handbook is not intended to be all inclusive, but it should be used as a guide for your participation and affiliation with the School. Please contact the Principal or other school leadership for clarification or with any questions.
HEARTS AND HANDS FOR GOD
Hearts and hands for God May each thought of love
In all I do and say Be a gift to You
Teach me Lord to Love You May each task I do
And serve You more each day. Show my love for You.
Bless each thing I do Show my love for You.
That all may be for You. Help me, Lord
Working, playing, singing, praying, Teach me, Lord
Every act my love conveying, Bless me, Lord
Hearts and hands for God. Help me, teach me, bless me, Lord.
(repeat first part)
Copyright – 1986 ‐ by Patricia Guadnola
ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL SONG
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HISTORY St. Stephen Catholic School was founded on August 27, 1981 with the help of two of the sisters of St. Joseph, Father Joseph Leberer and a group of devoted parents. They were committed to giving children an education where the primary focus is the total development of the child, and rooted in a Christ‐centered life that is begun and sustained in the family.
SCHOOL INFORMATION St. Stephen Catholic School is a pre‐Kindergarten through Grade 8, Catholic Elementary and Middle School under the Diocese of Denver Catholic Schools Office.
The curriculum stresses academic achievement within a Christian community where the child feels that he/she is loved and respected by his/her peers as well as the teacher. Vatican II texts are used so that our theology is in compliance with the bishops of the world. United with each other in meaningful liturgy and prayer, the students can further come to an understanding of the Christian life. At St. Stephen Catholic School we are attempting to “teach as Jesus did.”
The Diocesan curriculum guidelines, consistent with the State of Colorado guidelines, and Common Core Standards are followed for the teaching of all secular subject areas. The curriculum is marked by current content and fresh approaches to methodology. There is emphasis on principles rather than fact, on learning through problem solving rather than by precept. We strive to offer a program which makes use of many sources of reading material, a wide variety of audio‐visual and technology tools and a multi‐text approach to the content areas.
Additionally, we follow Diocesan policies and guidelines which can be found in the Archdiocese section.
ADMINISTRATION The Superintendent of the Office of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Denver, the Office of Catholic Schools, our pastor, and faculty are responsible for the administration and instructional programs of St. Stephen Catholic School.
An integral part of this Christian community is cooperation and communication between home and school. It is in this spirit that this Parent/Student Handbook is presented. Please become familiar with our general school policies. Your cooperation in adhering to these policies is most important. You, the parents of our students, are the best source of positive public relations for St. Stephen. If we all continue to work together in an atmosphere of true Christian helping, caring, and sharing we will certainly have a school that is dynamic.
ACCREDITATION AND LICENSING – POLICY NO. 1010 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2013
All Archdiocesan elementary and high schools will be accredited by AdvancED, an international organization and the parent organization of North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and certified as Catholic through the Catholic School Endorsement of the Office of Catholic Schools.
The purpose of accreditation is to acknowledge the professional educational standards of the school. The accreditation process is intended to act as a means of on‐going planning and school improvement.
Accreditation is a method of quality assurance which evaluates and verifies an institution’s quality and encourages continuous improvement. District accreditation is a new and challenging model. It is a protocol for school systems committed to systemic, systematic and sustainable improvement designed to ensure that an entire system is aligned in the accreditation process.
All Catholic preschool and elementary school before and after school care programs will be licensed by the Colorado Department of Human Services.
SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT With Faith, Hope and Love we will make the ordinary into the extraordinary.
SCHOOL VISION STATEMENT St. Stephen Catholic School fosters families and their children as they develop to their fullest potential through
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providing leadership opportunities in spiritual, moral, intellectual, creative, social, emotional and physical endeavors. We provide a Christ centered foundation based on the values of faith, community, justice and respect. We believe that our graduates are capable of being powerful agents of change.
ARCHDIOCESE OF DENVER MISSION STATEMENT The Archdiocese of Denver, in establishing and maintaining Catholic schools as “…the most effective means available to the Church for the education of children and young people,”1 recognizes and commits itself to the threefold purpose of Christian education: “teaching doctrine, building community, and serving.”2 Consequently, the Catholic Education Vicariate through its department of Catholic Schools also assumes the task of directing Archdiocese of Denver Catholic Schools in order that they might stimulate the spirit of inquiry and promote the acquisition of knowledge and understanding.
This endeavor is given direction by the 1983 mandate from James V. Casey, Archbishop of Denver when he issued the following: The Mission of Denver Archdiocesan Schools calls upon its parents, teachers and administrators:
…to model the teaching of Jesus Christ and to develop knowledgeable, reflective, believing, and participating Catholics capable of assuming position of service and leadership in society; …to provide a Christian environment and curriculum which emphasizes justice, equality, responsibility, values, love of learning, creativity and excellence; …to respond to a changing world while maintaining a commitment to the traditions of quality Catholic education; …to teach so that academic learning, worship and sacramental life lead to greater knowledge, love, and service to God and neighbor.
In fulfilling this mission, each school community is challenged to nurture the faith life of its members: …by permeating curriculum and physical environment with expressions and symbols of Catholic theology, philosophy, and tradition …by encouraging each administrator, teacher, parent and student to accept the persona and message of Christ as worthy of his/her emulation …by fostering an understanding of the loyalty to the development of Catholic moral and spiritual values. Likewise, instruction in Catholic Schools must enable students to acquire basic skills in the art of communicating, in quantitative thinking, and in the sciences. It must provide opportunities to help students think constructively, solve programs, reason independently, and accept responsibility for self‐evaluation and self‐instructing. Schooling must help students develop and preserve physical and mental health and learn how to cope with the change and adaptation inherent in life. It must enable students to experience the heritage, responsibility and privileges of American citizenship.
1 To Teach As Jesus Did, National Conference of Bishops, 1972, paragraph 118.
2 Ibid.
BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL We affirm the purpose of St. Stephen Catholic School is the Christian, intellectual, social and physical growth of each child. Our aim is the development of the total person with Catholic, Christian attitudes and values, and skills fitting him/her for life in our society and in God’s Kingdom.
We recognize the need for high academic achievement in our rapidly advancing and complex world and are dedicated to providing the environment best fulfilling this need. We expect our children, reflecting their individual abilities, to achieve in academic areas at a rate greater than surrounding schools.
We recognize that not all societies and/or communities share our Christian values and/or beliefs. We are dedicated to preparing each child for his/her place in our society. It is our desire to instill in each child a working knowledge of the Catholic faith.
Further recognizing our physical nature, we are dedicated to developing the child’s physical talents and training him/her to use these talents for the general welfare of society.
With the Second Vatican Council we affirm our conviction that the Catholic School “retains its immense importance in the circumstances of our time” and we recall the duty of Catholic parents “to entrust their children to Catholic Schools when and where this is possible.”
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CORE VALUES We, in partnership with parents and guardians, believe in educating the whole child. It is our ultimate goal to guide our students to become socially conscious citizens of the world. We will achieve this through consistently maintaining high expectations academically, morally, spiritually and behaviorally. We are all children of God; we all have a responsibility to be all that we are capable of being and to serve mankind to the best of our abilities.
GOALS
The goal of St. Stephen Catholic School is to build a spiritual foundation upon which our students can develop Catholic morals and values while providing an environment in which they may achieve academic excellence.
Goals are broken into the following categories:
Religious 1. The student will be taught the basic truths of the Catholic religion.
2. The student will be taught Christian values and given concrete expression to these values through Christian service to others.
3. The student will actively participate in liturgical and para‐liturgical services.
4. The student will be taught numerous prayers.
5. The student will be helped to grow in the knowledge that he/she is not only a part of his/her own family, but of the school, parish and church community.
6. The parents will be expected to participate in the religious training, especially the sacramental preparation, of their children.
Intellectual 1. The student will be taught to perfect the science and process of clear, critical thinking and decision‐making.
2. The student will be taught basic computer and verbal skills, and communication of ideas.
3. The student will be taught to develop a love of learning.
4. The student will be taught good study habits, academic responsibility and self‐discipline.
Social 1. The student will be taught to develop and demonstrate healthy Christian values and attitudes.
2. The student will be taught to demonstrate a positive relationship toward teachers, clergy and classmates.
3. The student will be taught to understand, respect and interact with other people.
4. The student will be made aware of the social pressures he/she will face in modern society and be taught to address them with Christian insights.
5. The student will be taught to strive to maintain social justice with his/her direct influence.
Physical 1. The student will be taught to participate in activities that enhance his/her physical well‐being.
2. The student will be taught the importance of nutrition as essential to good health.
3. The student will be given the opportunity to express his/her emotions and thus promote good mental attitudes.
4. The student will be given the opportunity to participate in school activities that demonstrate healthy attitudes.
SPECIAL FEATURES St. Stephen Catholic School is an Archdiocesan supervised school supported by St. Stephen Parish and a tuition charge. The school’s innovative programs have kept up with our complicated and fast‐paced society. The certified, professional staff, along with computer assisted instruction, set the tone for an extremely rewarding academic experience.
The school provides the students of our community with high standards in the development of individual, spiritual, intellectual, social and physical growth. We strive to grow in our commitment to Christ and service to the community. St. Stephen Catholic School is recognized throughout the city for its high standards and tradition of a positive educational experience.
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Special features of St. Stephen Catholic School include:
Certified, professional staff
School Advisory Council (SAC) to Pastor and Principal
Involved St. Stephen Parent and Teacher Association (SSPTA)
Computer assisted instruction
Science/Technology/Health/Art Fair Religious Instruction
Christmas and Spring Programs
Music (choir) instruction (K‐8) , classical guitar instruction in partnership with The Aspen Music Festival (6-8)
Art instruction (K‐8)
Physical education (K‐8)
Health education (K‐8)
Foreign Language – Spanish (K‐8)
Standardized testing program – Iowa Assessments, CoGAT and ACRE Testing and STAR Assessments
After School Program
Weekly Mass
ACCREDITATION St. Stephen Catholic School is an Archdiocesan Catholic school and as such exceeds the highest level of expectations in its modeling and teaching the doctrine of the Catholic Church; in its purpose, vision, and mission; in its atmosphere and environment; and in its campus ministry and curriculum.
St. Stephen Catholic School is fully accredited through the North Central Educators Association, which is a division of AdvancED.
PRAYER AND DAILY RELIGIOUS EXERCISES At a minimum, each school day begins with daily announcements and an all‐school prayer, which is led over the intercom system. We celebrate a weekly Mass on Thursday mornings, where students from grades K through 8 have the opportunity to assist in the worship service by offering the gifts to the priest, being altar servers, readers and commentators. Homeroom classes, meetings, snacks, meals and assemblies begin with a prayer. Special Church seasons are celebrated by additional all‐school Liturgies during the year or prayer services. When deemed necessary, we will also call for special prayer services during the week. Reconciliation services are offered to the staff and students twice a year. All students are encouraged to make the power of group and personal prayer, along with meditation, an integral part of their lives.
SCHOOL COLORS AND MASCOT St. Stephen Catholic School mascot is an Eagle and the school colors are burgundy, navy blue and khaki. We encourage our students to identify with these symbols as a representation of our school pride and spirit.
LIABILITY INSURANCE INFORMATION Each parish, mission, educational, charitable and religious institution under the control of the Archbishop is covered by the Commercial General Liability. Coverage is extended to include clergy, employees and volunteers, while acting in the scope of their duties for the Archdiocese. Injuries resulting from student accidents are not covered under the medical payments feature. It is assumed that parents/guardians are providing accident and health insurance.
USE‐OF‐NAME - POLICY NO. 1050 Effective: January 2003
Attaching the school’s name, logo, or other insignia to an event, activity, or publication implies a close connection with the school, usually sponsorship or endorsement. Involvement by individual faculty, staff, students or parents is not, by itself, sufficient basis to title an activity, program, or event as “school” sponsored. Rather the activity, program or event must be one for which the school takes institutional responsibility.
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Faculty members, staff, students, parents, and parish members may use or authorize the use of the school name, logo, or insignia (alone or in conjunction with the name of a specified organization or activity) only with the written approval of the principal and pastor in parish schools and the principal and Superintendent in Archdiocesan high schools.
In appropriate cases determined by the principal/pastor or principal/Superintendent of Catholic Schools, permission for ongoing events, activities, or publications requiring approval under this policy may be given.
INTERPRETATION OF POLICIES ‐ POLICY NO. 1510 Effective: August 2002
In cases involving principal and pastor discretion, the Office of Catholic Schools recognizes the local administration’s authority to exercise discretionary rights within the parameters of local and Archdiocesan policy.
Any dispute regarding the interpretation of Archdiocesan policies is to be referred to the Superintendent in writing with the following information: State the policy in question, describe the interpretation of the policy by the school, describe the interpretation of the policy by the student/family and how it is impacting the family, and describe the efforts that have been made by both parties to address the interpretation differences.
The Superintendent will review the information provided and render a written decision which shall be final.
PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
PARENTS AS PARTNERS As partners in the educational process at St. Stephen Catholic School, we ask parents:
To set rules, times, and limits so that your child…
o Gets to bed early on school nights o Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day; o Is dressed according to the school dress code; o Completes assignments on time; and o Has a healthy lunch and nutritional snack every day.
To actively participate in school activities such as Parent‐Teacher Conferences;
To see that the student pays for any damage to school books or property due to carelessness or neglect on the part of the student;
To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy;
To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers;
To meet all financial obligations to the school;
To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well‐being, safety and health;
To complete and return to school any requested information promptly;
To read school notes, email correspondence and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;
To support the religious and educational goals of the school;
To attend Mass and teach the Catholic faith by work and example;
To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;
To treat teachers and staff with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems.
PARENT’S ROLE IN EDUCATION We, at St. Stephen Catholic School, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe parents are the primary educators of their children. Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life – physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Your choice of St. Stephen Catholic School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life.
Good example is the strongest teacher. Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church
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community will affect the way your child relates to God and others. Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in the child unless these are nurtured by the example of good Catholic/Christian morality and by an honest personal relationship with God in your family life.
Once you have chosen to enter into a partnership with us at St. Stephen Catholic School, we trust you will be loyal to this commitment. During these formative years (Pre‐K to 8), your child needs constant support from both parents and faculty in order to develop his/her moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical endowment. Neither parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner in the quest of challenging, yet nourishing, the student to reach his/her potential. It is vital that both parents and teachers remember that allowing oneself to be caught between the student and the other partner will never have positive results. To divide authority between school and home or within the home will only teach disrespect of all authority. If there is an incident at school, you as parents must make investigation of the complete story your first step. Evidence of mutual respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and relationships. Talking negatively about a child’s teacher at home will only create an attitude of distrust toward the teacher, the school, and the parent.
Students are naturally eager to grow and learn. However, sometimes in the process of maturation new interests may cause them to lose focus. As this natural process occurs, the student needs both understanding and discipline. At times, your child may perceive discipline as restrictive. However, it is boundaries and limits which provide a young person with both guidance and security.
It is essential that a child take responsibility for grades he/she has earned and be accountable for homework, long‐ term assignments, major tests, service projects, and all other assignments. Parents are encouraged to let their child experience a logical consequence for an inappropriate action or behavior. This responsibility also extends to times of absence.
Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.
HONOR CODE
PURPOSE OF THE HONOR CODE The St. Stephen Catholic School Honor Code is based on the belief that true learning depends on honesty. St. Stephen Catholic School functions on the basis of mutual trust and respect between all members of the community. As a result, students are expected to demonstrate integrity and individual responsibility, both personally and academically, in order to maintain a fair and honest environment. Students who commit themselves to upholding the code will be instilled with a sense of honor and integrity that will last beyond their time spent at St. Stephens.
HONOR CODE The following code is recited every morning during the all‐school announcements and prayer time. The code is also posted in all classrooms.
“At St. Stephen we do the right thing. We respect ourselves, each other, our school and our community. We treat everyone with kindness, compassion and a forgiving spirit. We have the courage to take risks and learn from our mistakes. We are responsible for our actions, our words and our learning. We tell the truth even when it is difficult. We do the right thing even when no one is watching.”
ACADEMIC AND HONOR CODE VIOLATIONS Cheating is defined as submitting for credit as one’s own, someone else’s work obtained either in or out of school; giving or receiving from another student unauthorized assistance in the preparation of that work for credit; and using any unauthorized materials in the preparation of work for credit. Attempted cheating is defined as the attempt to accomplish any of the above.
Plagiarism is defined as submission of work copied directly from any source whatsoever that is not properly enclosed in quotation marks and acknowledged by parenthetical documentation and/or in the Works Cited; paraphrasing and/or restated in an author’s original idea that is not acknowledged by parenthetical documentation and/or in the Works Cited.
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Lying is defined as the willful and knowledgeable telling of an untruth and any other form of deceit, be it oral or written. This includes but is not limited to: lying to administration and faculty members; forging or falsifying any official school document (i.e. report cards, detention slip, uniform infraction notices, etc.)
Stealing is defined as taking or appropriating without permission to do so any property belonging to any member of the St. Stephen Catholic School community or property located on the school grounds.
Toleration is defined as the knowledge and acceptance of any of the above (i.e. cheating, attempted cheating, plagiarism, lying and stealing). A student has an obligation to inform any faculty member or administrative authority within three days. Failure to do so is considered toleration, which is itself a violation of the code.
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES
STUDENT ATTENDANCE ‐ POLICY NO. 2120 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2007
The State of Colorado provides by law for compulsory school attendance of all children between the ages of six and sixteen years.
The responsibility for compliance with this law belongs to the parents. The school must notify parents if there appears to be a problem with attendance.
The school is obliged to keep an accurate record of daily attendance. This record is to be placed in the pupil’s permanent record and kept on file indefinitely. Any recurring pattern of tardiness/absences requires administrative intervention. Excessive tardiness and/or absences may be cause for retention or request for withdrawal. The parent/student handbook should contain a statement of local school policy regarding attendance and excessive absences/tardiness.
Truancy is a violation of Colorado law.
ABSENCE PROCEDURES If, for any reason, a student is absent from school, parents must call the school office by 8:30 a.m. to report the absence. If no verbal contact is made, the child must bring a note from the parent stating the cause of the absence. This note is to include the student’s name, date, the reason for absence or tardiness, and the parent’s or guardian’s signature. Excuses of a doubtful nature and continued cases of absence or tardiness shall be investigated by the Principal and a recommendation made to the parents.
When a student is absent for three or more days due to illness, a parent may call the school office before 9:30 a.m. to arrange for homework assignments. Homework assignments may be picked up at the school office between 3:00 p.m.‐3:30 p.m.
For short absences, students should make arrangement with classmates regarding assignments. Students may also receive missed assignments from their teacher when they return to school.
Arrangements for regular classroom tests which are missed because of an excused absence are to be made directly with the individual teachers. These tests must be taken within one week of the original test date.
When absenteeism is the result of contagious disease or an absence of five (5) days or more, a doctor’s permit should be obtained before returning to school.
Excessive absences of 40 days, or the equivalent of 40 days including tardies, can be cause for a student to be retained in the current grade for another year and/or removed from the current classroom and school roster.
EXCUSED ABSENCES The only recognized excused absences from school are:
Personal illness – based on phone call or written note
Family illness
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Death in the family
Religious holiday
All students are required to attend all scheduled classes, which include all academic subjects, music, art, Spanish, P.E. and weekly Mass. All subjects have required curriculum hours that are dictated by the Archdiocese of Denver, which we strive to meet. Weekly Mass time is viewed as a class, and therefore counts towards our required curriculum religion hours. Class absences, regardless of the reason, impact the participation portion of the grade.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES Parents may wish to take their children out of school for several days because of family vacation plans. When this request is made, the Principal and/or teacher should discuss the child’s progress with his/her parents and advise them of the effect such an absence will have on the pupil’s school work. The final decision is the responsibility of the parents. Family vacations are considered unexcused absences, arrangements should be made to complete all academic assignments per the classroom teachers. The school calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning process. Missed assignments are the student’s responsibility. Teachers are not required to give make‐up tests or assignments for absences due to vacation.
ABSENCE DURING THE SCHOOL DAY Medical, dental, and other appointments are to be scheduled by the parents after school, on school holidays, early release days or during vacation periods.
Students needing medical appointments during school hours require a written note by the parent. Parents are required to sign out their child. If the child returns to school during the same school day, he/she must be signed back into school in the office. Students who are away from school for an appointment for 3 ½ hours or more will be counted as absent for ½ a day. Three (3) early withdrawals each of which are less than 3 ½ hours are considered a one‐half day absence. Students who are tardy more than 40 times may be asked to be retained in the current grade for another year and/or be removed from the current classroom and school year roster.
TARDIES If a student accumulates 8 or more tardies in a quarter, he or she will not be eligible to receive a Perfect Attendance Award for that specific quarter.
CLASSROOM CONDUCT Students are to be on time for each class and to actively participate in the learning process and activities of that class. Class attendance is essential to academic success. Therefore, excessive absences and/or tardies in any one grading period from a particular class may cause the student to fail that said class.
STUDENT WITHDRAWAL ‐ POLICY NO. 2630 Effective: August 2002
After the school has made attempts to meet their individual needs, students clearly unable to profit from the school by reason of academic and/or behavioral problems or emotional difficulties may be required to withdraw from school.
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND EXPECTATIONS
GRADE NOTIFICATION Teachers utilize our online Sycamore Education program for all grading and posting of grades. This system allows enough time for the student to attempt to correct any deficiency. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in this online system to view their student’s progress in their classes.
GRADING SYSTEM Grades serve several legitimate educational purposes ‐ to inform parents how their child is perceived in school, socially and academically; to help the student see himself as a learner and set his or her goals for further areas of learning; and
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to monitor the student for school placement. There are as many ideas about grades as there are students, teachers and parents. Students are marked on recitations, tests, quizzes, papers, participation, and, in some cases, extra credit. If the parent questions a grade a teacher has given, please call and make an appointment with that teacher in order to discuss the reasoning.
The scholastic year is split up into four quarters. A letter grading system is used in grades 4 through 8, and a number grading system is used in grades kindergarten through 3. The grade is based on class work, assignments, homework, quizzes, tests, presentations, projects and participation.
Letter grades are determined according to the following scale:
A+ = 100‐97 B+ = 89‐87 C+ = 79‐77 D+ = 69‐67 F = 59 and below A = 96‐94 B = 86‐84 C = 76‐74 D = 66‐64 P = Pass A‐ = 93‐90 B‐ = 83‐80 C‐ = 73‐70 D‐ = 63‐60 F = Fail
Number grades are determined according to the following scale:
4 Advanced ++ Meets Expectation NA N/A in this Quarter 3 Meets Objective + Approaching Objective INC Incomplete 2 Approaching Objective − Unsatisfactory
1 Unsatisfactory
HOMEWORK Formal home‐study is assigned to help students become self‐reliant and self‐directed. Homework assignments and study are designed to reinforce daily lessons, to supplement and enrich class work, and to prepare for certain lessons through various experiences. It is the responsibility of each student to know what assignments need to be done within a time determined by the teacher. Ordinarily work brought home by students in the evening includes:
1. Class work not completed in school
2. Long term projects
3. Drill/review work
4. Outside readings
5. Special educational television programs
Students are responsible for completing work assignments on time, in the prescribed manner and in acceptable form. At the discretion of the teacher, students may be asked to remain after school to complete assignments. Parent involvement is encouraged.
Since each student has different capabilities and interests, it would be difficult to denote the specific amount of time to be spent on an assignment. If a problem arises, the teacher should be contacted.
HOMEWORK DUE TO VACATIONS/PLANNED ABSENCES The school calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning process. Missed assignments are the student’s responsibility and will not be allowed extra time to complete. All missed assignments are due the day the student returns to school from vacation or a planned absence.
Teachers are not required to give make‐up tests or assignments for absences due to vacations. No assignment will be given in anticipation of the vacation. Please do not ask the teacher to make an exception or offer payment for homework given in advance of an absence.
HOMEWORK POLICY DUE TO ILLNESS When a student is absent for three or more days, a parent may call the school office by 9:30 a.m. to arrange for homework assignments. Homework assignments may be picked up at the school office between 3:00 and 3:30 p.m.
For short absences, students should make arrangements with classmates regarding assignments. Students may also receive missed assignments from their teacher when they return to school.
Students will be allowed one day for each day of absence due to illness. For example, a student who has been absent for two days will have two days to complete missed work. There will be no exceptions to this policy.
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HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS Honor Roll is only awarded to students in grades 4th through 8th for outstanding academic achievement. Students will be awarded a certificate of achievement during an all school assembly on a quarterly basis. All classes, subjects and special classes will be used in determining the students’ achievement of honor roll status. Any report card reflecting a C+ or lower grade will not be allowed submission for honor roll status. The following is how the quarterly honor roll is determined:
Principals Honor Roll – All grades are A’s
“A” – “B” Honor Roll – All grades are A’s and B’s
REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued at the end of each quarter in grades 1st through 8th, and are considered an important tool of communication. Kindergarten students will receive a progress report at the end of the semester and end of the school year. The quarters are clearly defined on the school calendar, in the newsletter and on the monthly calendars. Final report cards will be mailed within one week of the last day of school. Report cards will not be issued at the end of the year if fees are due for damaged or lost books, or your financial account is not paid in full, including After School Program fees. Please carefully review your child’s progress and contact the school if you have questions.
LATE WORK POLICY St. Stephen Catholic School students are expected to turn in all assignments in a timely manner. There will be a grade deduction for all work submitted after the stated due date.
The grade calculation for late work is determined by the teacher in accordance with his or her class expectations published at the beginning of the year.
TUTORING POLICY AND ACADEMIC SUPPORT Teachers will be available to tutor students, who are currently in their classes on an as needed basis as determined by the teacher, for one hour a week before or after school, at no additional charge. The day(s) and time(s) of these tutoring sessions will be determined by the classroom teacher(s). Please contact the principal for further clarification if needed.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL
SCHOOL HOURS Our school office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weekdays, unless otherwise noted for early release days. Our week day school instructional schedule is 7:55 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. On half days all grades will typically be dismissed at 12:00 noon, or as designated in school communications.
At St. Stephen Catholic School, we work in partnership with parents to enable each child to develop as an independent learner. Parents should allow their child(ren) to enter the school building on their own each morning. Various classes invite parent involvement or visitation on particular occasions.
ARRIVAL/TARDINESS Students in grades K‐8 should arrive between 7:40 a.m. and 7:55 a.m. and are to go to the grassy area upon arrival, weather permitting.
There is a warning bell at 7:55 a.m. Students are marked “tardy” if they arrive to their homeroom class after 8:05. Students who arrive later than 8:05 a.m. are a disruption to their class and miss valuable instruction time. They may also not be allowed into their classrooms until after morning announcements and classroom prayers are completed.
Important:
It is the parent’s responsibility to have the student on time for school.
The parent should accompany the student to the office if arriving later than 8:05 a.m.
Frequent tardiness could constitute an “incomplete” in that class or even a fail grade.
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NOTE: If a student accumulates 8 or more tardies in a quarter, he or she will not be eligible to receive a Perfect Attendance Award for that specific quarter.
MORNING DROP‐OFF Due to emergency vehicles having safe access to the front of the school, you are not allowed to park your car in front of the school for the drop off or pick up of your children. If you need to leave your car to walk your children into the school, you are required to park in a parking spot. There is a designated drop off area in the front of the school, so you are encouraged to follow the signage while performing these tasks. Also, you are requested to follow strict speed limits while in the parking lot.
AFTERNOON DISMISSAL AND PICK‐UP PROCEDURES Please make arrangements for your child to be picked up between 3:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on typical school days, and no later than 15 minutes following dismissal on early-dismissal days. . If you are going to be late, please call the school concerning arrangements you have made. After 3:30 p.m., if your children remain at the school, they will be required to attend the After School Program and you will be charged for this service. See information and fees below.
If your child will be walking or riding a bike home or to a separate location after school, we require a written note or phone call with your approval. If this is your intent, please advise your children that they are to leave the school grounds upon dismissal. If we do not get the written note or phone call, your child will be sent to the After School Program where you may incur charges for their presence.
CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL Cancellation of school takes place only during extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather, equipment failure, or public crisis. School will not be canceled unless a significant safety risk has been created by unusual circumstances. If RE‐1 schools are closed due to inclement weather, St. Stephen Catholic School will also be closed.
If school warrants closing, the Principal will send out communications as soon as possible. Typically, cancellation updates are shared via KMTS 99.1 radio and on 9 News as well as via the Emergency Text Notification System through Flock Note. It is the parents’ responsibility to update the contact information on Sycamore in order for this procedure to work correctly. We also post information on the school website, Flock Note, and on Sycamore Education.
In the unusual circumstances where school is cancelled during the day, the Principal will determine that all students have satisfactory transportation and supervision at their home before releasing them from school.
Parents will use their own judgment in sending children to school during inclement weather. Additionally, parents may call for their children before regular dismissal time on stormy days, but the Principal and school staff are responsible for permitting pupils to leave only with parents or with another adult known to have been authorized by the parent.
LOCKED DOORS To provide a safe, orderly environment and to assist visitors to our building, the classroom entrance doors will remain locked during the school day. You may enter the school by using the main school entrance by buzzing the office to be allowed to enter the building.
PERMISSION TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL OR SCHOOL GROUNDS Students will not be permitted to leave the school or grounds at any time during the day unless written permission has been provided by the parents. No one is permitted to go directly to the classrooms to call for a child, deliver messages, etc. This is to be done through the office.
RETURNING TO SCHOOL AFTER DISMISSAL Students are not permitted to return to the school building after the final pickup time, unless accompanied by a teacher. Students who choose to return to school after final pickup time without a teacher may face possible detention, suspension, or expulsion. This policy is designed for the protection of your child in additional to helping your child to become more organized and personally responsible.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM AND HOMEWORK TUTORING PROGRAM We have two After School Programs. Our Regular After School Program is offered to students in grades kindergarten to
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8th grade. This program is offered 5 days a week after school.
The After School Tutoring Program is for students who have been referred to the Response To Intervention Program. This Program is typically offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. On early dismissal days, we will not offer the Tutoring Program.
GENERAL RULES AND GUIDELINES
BICYCLES We recommend that all bicycles be registered with the city. In addition, we suggest that students record their bicycle serial numbers. The school assumes no responsibility for bicycles. To safeguard bikes, lock them in the school bike racks.
GUM
Students should not chew gum at school at any time they are at school unless permitted specifically by a teacher or other school leader. This includes before school, during school or after school. Disciplinary action will occur for students who are chewing gum during the course of the school day. The only exception to this rule may be made during Iowa Assessments testing periods, as permitted by each individual teacher. .
GIFTS AND INVITATIONS Students should not exchange individual gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt feelings among other students. Invitations for slumber parties, birthday parties or other celebrations should be sent to the home of the students via the U.S. mail unless an invitation is being given to every student in the entire classroom or grade.
ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM Teachers assume direct responsibility for the control of any animals brought to their classroom. Extreme care must be exercised to see that the animals come from a disease-free environment and pose no health risk to humans. Proper quarters and care must be provided at all times.
No student should be allowed to handle animals without proper supervision. Experimentation with animals must be carried out in accordance with humane, scientific practices.
CLASSROOM PARTIES Classroom parties will be held to celebrate holidays during the year, at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Treats may be brought in for student birthdays after the date and time has been cleared with the classroom teacher.
LUNCH PROGRAM A hot lunch program is offered on a limited basis. There is a nominal fee associated with the program, and you will be required to pay if you choose to participate in the program. You will be notified on a monthly basis as to what will be offered for lunch.
MILK PROGRAM Students may buy milk or bring water. Soft drinks are NOT allowed as a lunch or snack beverage. At the beginning of each school year the price for milk will be determined and you will be notified of the price and payment plans available through the newsletter and email notification.
SIGNS AND POSTERS An administrator must approve all signs and posters before they are hung or posted. They are to be removed by the end of the school day following the event or activity for which they were posted.
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES – POLICY NO. 2700 Effective: August 2002
School‐sponsored social activities may be held with the approval of the pastor and/or principal/director. All school‐ sponsored social activities will be appropriately supervised by faculty members and parents.
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PLAYGROUND AND FACILITIES
RECESS POLICIES Weather permitting; students will have recess during the school day. The following guidelines will be followed:
1. Outside recess during cold weather will depend on the temperature and wind chill factor.
2. Shorter outside recess times are scheduled on very cold days.
3. Students should ALWAYS dress for outside recess.
4. All students must be on the playground or on the field during outside recess.
5. All students are to remain within the playground or field boundaries.
6. Only students with a medical excuse will be allowed to remain in the building during scheduled outside breaks.
Students will have supervised free time in the classroom on days when bad weather prevents outside recess. Quiet games, talking with friends, listening to music, etc. are usually allowed by the teacher in charge.
PLAYGROUND RULES The purpose of the playground is for children to practice the manners that are taught at home and school while, at the same time, to have an enjoyable break from academic studies. Therefore, areas will be established for various games where the students may associate with students from other classes in a Christian atmosphere of enjoyment and mutual respect. We have a positive working relationship with the City of Glenwood with their approval to use the playground at Sayre Park.
1. Tell all problems to the teachers on duty ‐ they will make a decision as to what is to be done.
2. The teachers will determine what games will be allowed and where they may be played.
3. Students should not disrupt any games that are in progress.
4. If a ball goes outside boundaries, ask a teacher for permission to retrieve it. No one may leave school grounds without permission.
5. Balls ending up on top of a building will be retrieved only by the custodian.
6. Chase or tag games may only be played on the field.
7. For safety reasons, students will not throw rocks, sand, snowballs, etc. on or near the school or church property.
8. Bike racks are provided for those students who ride to school. Bikes should be locked to the rack. Bikes should not be ridden on the playground at any time.
9. Kindergarten students are not allowed to use the see‐saw until after Christmas break.
10. Proper use of playground equipment:
Swings:
Only sit one person per swing.
Swing forward and back, not to the side.
No twisting of chains
Slide:
Only setting position with feet first...
When at the bottom of the slide, move away quickly.
No climbing up slides.
11. Tag football only ‐ no tackling or pushing.
12. Any rough play such as fighting, wrestling, kicking, pulling/pushing each other will cause the students involved to receive a consequence ‐ to be determined by a teacher on duty.
13. Any pushing, pulling, fighting, or unnecessary roughness while in line will cause the student(s) to receive a consequence ‐ to be determined by the teacher on duty.
14. Sticks, stones and any other objects are to remain on the ground. If you consider the object to be a danger to the other students (i.e. broken glass), tell the teacher on duty.
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15. Dangerous toys are not allowed. This includes skateboards, roller skates, baseball bats and any other toy that might cause injury.
16. Exterior stairways, the steps of the Church and the fountain, are not play areas.
17. Children are not to come back into school unless given permission by a teacher on duty.
18. Good manners are to be exhibited at all times. Use of improper language, name calling, and bad manners will result in a consequence.
19. During scheduled recess times; food items, pencils, pens, etc. are not to be brought onto the playground.
20. Show respect for parent volunteers on duty during lunch.
21. When school is dismissed, go directly home or to the pick‐up area. Do not stay and play on the school grounds.
SNOW PLAY AND SLEDDING RULES We strongly encourage outside play during recess, and that includes recess time during the winter months. Here are some guidelines we follow for winter outside play:
1. Children must wear snow boots, snow pants, gloves and snow jackets to play in the snow. Hats and sunglasses are strongly encouraged.
2. Children who do not wear snow boots, snow pants, gloves and/or snow jackets will stand on the sidewalk with the teacher. If their class is in the field, these children must sit in the baseball dugout during recess.
3. Sledding Rules:
a. We go down on the sleds sitting up on our bottoms only.
b. We take turns using the sleds, whether it is yours or not.
c. We line up to take turns.
d. We do not go over jumps or kickers.
e. Snowboards and snow skates are not allowed.
4. If you bring a sled to school, you must share it and realize that it will be used by lots of children, and runs the risk of breaking.
ATHLETIC PROGRAMS Currently St. Stephen Catholic School does not offer an Athletic Program. However, parents and students are encouraged to contact the public schools in the Re‐1 and Re‐2 school district or the Glenwood Springs Community Center for information on their respective athletic programs
USE OF SCHOOL AND PARISH CENTER FACILITIES St. Stephen Catholic School is for the use of school and parish programs and activities.
It is expected that all uses of school facilities will contribute to the cultural and educational development of the community. Regularly scheduled school activities will take precedence over the use of school facilities by any other groups or individuals. Anyone wishing to use school facilities should submit their request through the St. Stephen Catholic Parish Office (phone number: 945‐6673).
A staff member or group leader must be in the building at all times during the use of school facilities. Any damages that occur will be the responsibility of the user groups, regardless of the circumstances, and any accidents must be expeditiously reported to the school principal.
Anyone using school facilities is expected to leave the facilities in the same condition in which they were found. School equipment can only be used with special permission, and no school property is to leave the building at any time.
OFF‐LIMIT AREAS Our school is maintained and operated for the benefit of our students. However, common sense and safety considerations dictate the designation of a few off‐limit areas where students are not allowed. These areas include the storage areas, behind the counter or desk in the office, kitchen and trash collection areas. Students are not to use the walkway at the south side of the gym. Students are expected to cooperate and refrain from playing or visiting in these areas. During recess times, students are to remain within the playground boundaries.
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LOITERING IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOL Parents assume the responsibility of instructing their child of the dangers of accepting any invitation or associating in any way with strangers on or near the school grounds. Parents are to notify the Principal in writing of any concern they have regarding the safety of their child.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT USAGE Our school contains a variety of educational, safety and maintenance equipment. Students are not to handle this equipment unless they have been specifically authorized to do so. When school equipment is damaged through negligence or unauthorized use, the party at fault will be held financially responsible. All equipment must remain on parish and school property.
DESTROYED PROPERTY All properties at school, such as books, computers, furniture, playground equipment, and the building are parish properties. Any individual destroying or tampering with any of these items, whether by accident or intent, is expected to either replace or repair the item.
Replacement or repair of a damaged article is not to be considered as a form of punishment. It is, instead, a means of instilling pride in a well‐kept school, as well as a feeling of respect in the children. It should become almost instinctive for a child now, as well as in later life, to repair, replace or pay for any article damaged by him/her that does not belong to him/her personally.
LOCKER ASSIGNMENTS ‐ MIDDLE SCHOOL The assignment of lockers is made on the first day of school by the homeroom teacher. Lockers are located in your homeroom classroom. Students are to occupy the locker they have been assigned. Students must provide a combination lock in order to lock the locker during the day and over the weekends or extended vacation days. The student will provide the homeroom teacher the combination for their lock in case the student forgets the combination. This information will not be shared with anyone other than the teacher and student. For your safety and the safety of your personal items, do not share your combination with other students. At the end of the year, student lockers must be cleaned out and ready for the next student the following year.
LOCKER SEARCHES – MIDDLE SCHOOL Lockers are the property of St. Stephen Catholic School and may be opened and searched by school officials at any time for any reason. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
LOST AND FOUND If your child has lost any article of clothing, please check the Lost and Found cabinet. Items placed in the Lost and Found cabinet will typically remain there for 10 days. After 10 days, items are donated to charity.
SCHOOL PROPERTY The parent of a child who carelessly destroys or damages any furniture, equipment, building, or anyone’s personal property will be obligated to pay the full amount of repairs and labor or replacement. Textbooks used by the student must have a proper book cover. No writing in textbook is permitted. The student will pay a fine or replacement for damages or lost texts before any final reports, transcripts, or diplomas are presented.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES Each teacher will provide an exact list of supplies needed for the school year, which you will receive by e‐mail prior to school resuming in the fall. You can also obtain copies on the school website and the Sycamore Education program.
VALUABLES Common sense and consideration are the best guides in determining whether or not to bring personal possessions to school. The school staff will not be held responsible for valuables that students bring to school. It is recommended that
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students leave all valuables at home
SEARCHES OF STUDENTS AND SCHOOLS ‐ POLICY NO. 2300 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2007
A student assigned a locker or desk has use of, but not proprietary right to, the locker or desk. The principal, pastor, high school assistant principal and dean of students, professional staff of the Office of Catholic Schools or the Secretary for Catholic Schools may conduct a search of the school plant and every aperture thereof, including lockers and desks. School searches must be reasonable and related to the school official’s responsibilities.
Normally, inspection of personal property, e.g. pockets, handbags, book bags, cars, etc. should not be conducted without the student’s permission. If permission is not given, the principal should contact the Office of Catholic Schools for further instructions.
After consultation with the Office of Catholic Schools, inspection of personal property, e.g. pockets, handbags, book bags, cars, etc. may be made if the school official has a reasonable suspicion that such an inspection will reveal possession of objects or any substance which is prohibited on school property.
CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS AND RESOLUTION
CONDUCT In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school, which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All students are expected to cooperate with the spirit and policies of the school which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment, and many other factors which the students’ sense of appropriateness will indicate to them. The Principal or Pastor reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action if any doubt arises.
SCHOOL ATMOSPHERE Teachers are responsible for the safety of the children and promotion of an orderly atmosphere within the school. The school has the responsibility to inform parents of school rules regarding behavior. Parents are to instruct their child/children as to the behavioral expectations of the school. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 4300 concerning controversial issues; and Archdiocese Policy No. 5040 concerning fundraising projects for additional information.)
Dangerous items such as cap or squirt guns, pocket knives, sharp and pointed instruments, laser pointers, etc. are not allowed on the school premises. Immediate discipline will be administered upon discovery of these items on school premises. This policy is for the protection of the health and safety of the entire student body of St. Stephen Catholic School.
Students are expected to act like responsible individuals when using the halls during school hours. Loud talking, loud laughing, running, pushing, etc. are not allowed. A basic Christian philosophy of friendship and getting along with others is adhered to at St. Stephen. Therefore, fighting is strictly prohibited. Differences should be settled in a non‐ violent manner.
CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES ‐ POLICY NO. 4300 Effective: August 2002
A controversial issue is defined as a current problem or subject which has publicly evoked opposing viewpoints on the part of any mass medium or communication or of any organized group, or as any subject that arises in the classroom on which strong emotional bias is expressed by members of the classroom group.
Catholic school administrators and teachers have the obligation of teaching and advocating Church doctrine, which is contained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church or in other authentic teaching documents of the Catholic Church, when this doctrine is relevant to any controversial issue being considered.
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ORDER TO RESOLUTION OF DIFFERENCES AND CONFLICTS Every attempt to resolve a difference and/or conflict at the lowest possible level is expected. Occasionally, matters may surface which require an objective review by a third party in order to assure the maintenance of positive relationships within the school community. To facilitate communication, resolution, reconciliation and the strengthening of the school community of faith, the following guidelines shall be followed:
1. Student/parent and teacher—Every effort shall be made to resolve a difference or conflict in a spirit of fairness and justice by engaging in civil, direct, timely, and ongoing communication between the parties most directly involved.
2. Student/parent to teacher to principal to pastor—If the difference and/or conflict cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the parties involved, recourse may be made to the person with the next higher level of accountability/authority.
3. Superintendent—If the difference and/or conflict cannot be resolved following steps one and two above, then one may have recourse to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools who will attempt to initiate discussion between the parties and attempt to bring about a peaceful resolution.
RECOGNITION OF LOCAL AUTHORITY The Office of Catholic Schools and the Superintendent recognizes the Principal’s authority to exercise discretionary rights within the parameters of local and Archdiocesan policy.
POLITICAL ISSUES ‐ POLICY NO. 4310 Effective: August 2002
The teaching of political matters should evoke faithful citizenship, an obligation to study the issues and political involvement. However, advocating a specific political stance, party affiliation and/or political agenda is not to be exercised by faculty, parents and students in the building, in the name of the school or during school sponsored activities.
NOTE: The posting of political materials in Archdiocesan schools is strictly prohibited.
APPEAL PROCESS When a parent/guardian, employee or student (if a minor, the parent must submit on the student’s behalf) believes his/her rights have been violated and/or the Principal is believed to be acting contrary to archdiocesan or local policy, the person may submit an appeal, in writing, to the Office of Catholic Schools. This appeal must include the following information:
1. Subject of appeal. 2. Rights and/or policies which have been violated.
3. First hand, factual data which the person considers appropriate. 4. A list of the efforts that have been made to resolve the issue.
Should the Office of Catholic Schools’ designee determine that a person’s rights and/or policy have been violated, the appeal will be investigated, and a written decision will be rendered.
If the person wishes, he or she may further appeal to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools should the complainant feel the Office of Catholic Schools designee did not property interpret or apply the policy or had failed to recognize the complainant’s rights have been violated. The Superintendent of Catholic Schools will review the materials, may request further details, and will determine whether or not a hearing is necessary. If a hearing is necessary, the Superintendent of Catholic Schools may hear the appeal alone or from a hearing committee. The decision of the Superintendent of Catholic Schools is final and binding and concludes the appeal process.
The appeal process is designed to support the Catholic Church’s belief in solidarity and, therefore, at no time during the appeal process may the parent, student (or parent on student’s behalf if student is a minor), or employee be represented by an attorney.
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OUT OF UNIFORM NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES When a child is not in an acceptable uniform, parents will be notified by the school office. Your child will be sent home with a Discipline Notification Form from the Soar with the Eagles Program with the specific change that needs to made to his/her uniform, before they are allowed back into school. You are required to familiarize yourself and your children with the Uniform Policy (a copy is included in the handbook for your convenience). If you have any questions regarding this notification, please call the school office (phone number: 970‐945‐7746).
COUNSELOR A certified counselor is available by appointment and serves the needs of students and parents through class and individual consultation.
DISCIPLINE
Registration of a student at St. Stephen Catholic School constitutes an express agreement on the part of the student and the parents to comply with all the rules of the school and of the Archdiocese of Denver. A spirit of mutual respect, order, and responsibility within our school is encouraged so that teachers may be able to teach and students may be able to learn in a Christian atmosphere of respect and self‐discipline.
Self‐discipline among our students is required as it underlies the whole educational emphasis of St. Stephen School. It develops responsibility, character, orderliness and efficiency, self‐discipline is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for the rights and dignity of other people.
Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be considered on an individual basis. The School reserves the right to dismiss any student whose conduct or effort is unsatisfactory. Please refer to the Addendum attached to this handbook for Archdiocesan policies regarding discipline, probation, suspension, expulsion and student withdrawal.
Discipline in the Catholic School is to be considered as an aspect of moral guidance and not a form of punishment. The purpose of discipline is to promote character training and to provide a classroom environment conducive to learning.
Students at St. Stephen Catholic School are expected to act in such a fashion that their behavior will reflect favorably on the individual student and on the school itself; they will show consideration and respect for fellow students, teachers, guests and administration, and will create a harmonious school atmosphere.
One of the primary aims of St. Stephen Catholic School is teaching Christ’s love by Christian living. However, this does not mean that the school alone is responsible for developing self‐discipline in the child. Little can be accomplished during a day if the teacher is constantly required, by someone’s behavior, to act as a disciplinarian. The child must have a strong sense of self‐discipline that has developed from the beginning of his/her life at home.
Discipline at school and at home must be consistent and just. The child must feel a deep respect for words and examples of parents and teachers. He/she needs a feeling of security and must know that the adults in their life are sincerely interested. The school and parents must cooperate fully to help the child become the person God intended.
TYPES OF DISCIPLINE Faculty and staff are responsible for the instruction, safety and code of conduct among students. Children are to respect and obey all teachers, staff and administrators at St. Stephen Catholic School. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 2300 concerning searches of students and schools.)
St. Stephen Catholic School is also using a Virtue’s based discipline program, where the student will find up to two bible reading to aid in the learning of their offense. This will help instill their virtues so that they may avoid the same behavior in the future.
NOTES: When a child is sent to the Principal’s Office, the parents may be notified in writing. After repeated notifications have been given, a conference will be held between parents, teachers, and principal. Corporal punishment is not used as a form of discipline!
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PROGRAM Restorative justice empowers students to resolve conflicts on their own, and it's growing in practice at schools around the country. Essentially, the idea is to bring students together in peer‐mediated small groups to talk, ask questions and
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air their grievances. This process which teaches respect and responsibility has been known to reduce bullying and increase attendance.
SOAR HIGH WITH THE EAGLES PROGRAM St. Stephen Catholic School has also adopted a school wide behavior modification program, “Soar High with the Eagles.” The faculty and staff at St. Stephen are committed to providing your children with a positive educational experience and atmosphere. The cornerstones of effective instruction and a positive learning environment include classroom management, and school wide rules and expectations.
Students at St. Stephen will be part of a school that focuses on positive behavior expectations while at the same time holding students accountable for their own behavior. Positive behavior at St. Stephen will be rewarded by the distribution of Eagle Feather. Students who are “caught being good” and following school rules will be able to earn Eagle Feathers. When a student earns 10 Eagle Feathers they will be rewarded and will be able to select a prize. This reward system acknowledges all students as being good and worthy of receiving positive reinforcement. Students will also be able to earn Golden Feathers for working together as a team. Golden Feathers will be distributed by a staff member, as well as the principal to entire classrooms that display exemplary behavior. Classes earning 10 Golden Feathers, will enjoy a classroom reward, such as pizza/ice cream parties, dress down day, etc.
St. Stephen has adopted the following school rules:
Be respectful of others by using appropriate language and voices.
Keep hands, feet and all other objects to yourself. Follow directions of the adult in charge. Do the right thing even if no one is watching. Be respectful of others’ learning by walking quietly through the halls.
Any student who chooses to violate a school rule will be given a Discipline Notification Slip. The violation of school rules will have definite consequences. Please familiarize yourself with the forms, as attached as an addendum (Addendum G to this handbook, and make note as the consequences for each offence.
DETENTION A student may be detained after the daily school session for violation of various class and school regulations. Parents will be notified if their child is detained at school.
PROBATION Probation is the supervision and evaluation of the pupil’s conduct or work for a specified period of time, at the end of which a determination is made whether the student has overcome his/her problem or is in need of further measures. Probation is ordinarily imposed in conjunction with counseling and can be for academic, disciplinary, or special needs.
A student may be placed on probation by a principal or principal’s designee for a relatively serious offense, for continuing serious academic deficiency, for continued inability to adjust to the school’s expectations, or for continued misconduct after a warning, when the misconduct does not require more serious action.
(Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 2580 concerning students under court order or released on bail for additional information.)
GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION Grounds for expulsion are not to be applied automatically. There are, nevertheless, acts which constitute good cause for suspension or expulsion from school when the conduct is committed by a student while under the jurisdiction of the school or when the conduct is directly related to school activity or school attendance. Among these offenses are the following: (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 2620 concerning tobacco, alcohol and other drugs for additional information.)
Actions gravely detrimental to the moral and spiritual welfare of other students.
Incorrigible or disruptive behavior which impedes the progress of the rest of the class.
Damage to or theft of school or private property.
Infliction of or threatened physical injury to another person.
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Habitual disruption of school activities.
Habitual defiance of school authorities.
Habitual truancy.
In regard to offenses which take place off school premises and which constitute grounds for expulsion, the school must have evidence of the offense and establish its relationship with school discipline and the welfare of the students.
WITHDRAWAL FOR DISCIPLINE REASONS A parent may be asked to withdraw his/her child from school for disciplinary reasons. This will only be undertaken for misconduct of a very serious or repetitive nature. Such a request will be rarely made and only as a last resort for a clear and serious cause. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 2630 concerning student withdrawal for additional information.)
TRANSFER ON GROUNDS OF PARENTAL BEHAVIOR Effective: August 2002 – Policy #2660
Normally a child is not to be deprived of a Catholic education or otherwise penalized for the actions of parents. However, in rare instances, parents may so persistently and overtly refuse to cooperate with the school staff, policies, regulations, or programs, or may so seriously interfere in matters of school administration or discipline as to reduce significantly the school’s ability to serve the parents own children or other children.
In such cases, reasonable effort to elicit the minimum requisite parental cooperation shall be made and documented. If such an effort does not correct the situation, after appropriate consultation with the pastor or the Secretary of Education, the Principal may recommend to the parents that they transfer their child.
HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION AND BULLYING
INAPPROPRIATE STUDENT-TO-STUDENT INTERACTION ‐ POLICY NO. 2610 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2010
Harassment. Harassment is defined as any verbal, physical, or visual conduct on the part of students that has the purpose of effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.
Bullying. Bullying is defined as a conscious, willful, and deliberate hostile activity intended to harm, induce fear through the threat of further aggression, and create terror. Bullying includes these three elements—imbalance of power; intent to harm; threat of further aggression.
Teasing. Children may regularly interact in a manner that would be unacceptable among adults. Students are still learning how to interact appropriately with their peers. It is thus understandable that, in the school setting, students often engage in teasing, insults, banter, shoving, pushing that is upsetting to students. Teasing behaviors—while needing to be addressed by school officials—do not constitute bullying or harassment and the interventions and consequences are of another level.
THE ARCHDIOCESAN HARASSMENT POLICY NO. 3420 The Archdiocese of Denver prohibits harassment of one employee by another, employee or supervisor. Harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age or disability is prohibited. Any employee of the Archdiocese of Denver who believes that he/she has been or is a victim of harassment should immediately report the matter to the principal, pastor or Office of Catholic Schools.
STUDENT‐TO‐STUDENT HARASSMENT POLICY St. Stephen Catholic School has no tolerance for student‐to‐student harassment of any kind. All students must avoid offensive or inappropriate behavior towards peers at school including school grounds, parking lot, school sponsored activities, field trips and all parts of school buildings including hallways, classrooms, restrooms, entryways and lockers.
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This policy prohibits any verbal, physical or visual conduct on the part of students that has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive education environment.
EXAMPLES OF PROHIBITED CONDUCT Examples of prohibited conduct include intentional physical, visual or verbal harassment such as hitting/kicking, spitting/pushing, shoving/punching, beating/slapping, jabbing/bumping, hair pulling, damaging property, spoiling homework, tearing clothing, hazing/initiation, invasions of space, gestures, facial sneering, body postures, graffiti, pictures/notes, exposing of personal items of clothing, profanity, name calling, teasing, taunting, laughing at, threatening/ordering, degrading/mocking, rumors/gossiping, ridiculing, etc.
NOTE: This is not an exclusive list of prohibited actions under this policy, but it is for illustration purposes only.
FOREIGN STUDENTS ENROLLMENT ‐ POLICY NO. 2010 Effective: August 2003
Revised: August 2007
The schools of the Archdiocese of Denver are approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to accept F‐1 academic non‐immigrant students. Based upon SEVP approval, F‐1 academic non‐immigrant students must be proficient in English in order to attend a Catholic school in the Archdiocese of Denver. All requests for acceptance of F‐1 academic non‐immigrant students must be directed to the Office of Catholic Schools (Appendix VV, SEVIS I‐20 Form).
SEVP certified schools and programs may not develop, publish or use any form of advertising that states or implies the approval of curricular or practical training in conjunction with any English language training. All advertisements, school catalogs, brochures, or other materials produced by local schools or any statement which may appear concerning approval for admittance by non‐immigrant students must be limited to the following: “This school, as part of the Archdiocese of Denver, is authorized under federal law to enroll non‐immigrant students.”
NOTICE OF STUDENT NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Denver, under the jurisdiction of Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L. and at the direction of the Superintendent, state that all of their Catholic schools admit students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. Furthermore, Archdiocesan schools admit handicapped students in accord with the policy on Admissions in the Archdiocese of Denver Catholic Schools Administrator’s Manual. These schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, handicap, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of their educational policies, employment practices, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic or other school-administered programs.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT IN PUBLICATIONS AND OTHER USDA PUBLIC PROGRAM DOCUMENTS In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250‐9410 or call (800) 795‐3272 or (202) 720‐6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
ASSURANCE STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE PURPOSES OF TITLE IX EDUCATION ACT The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese, under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop, and at the direction of the Superintendent, attest that none of the Catholic schools discriminates on the basis of sex in its admission policies, its treatment of students or its employment practices.
INCIDENT REPORTING We will investigate all complaints and will endeavor to handle each complaint expeditiously in a professional manner so as to respect the rights of all parties concerned by carefully following the steps outlined here.
HARASSMENT COUNSELING The purpose of harassment counseling is to address concerns arising from a student’s behavior, to educate the student on the importance of the Harassment Policy and Christian Behavior, and to provide the opportunity to formally
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document the behavior of the student. Harassment counseling may be conducted by the Superintendent, Administration, Counselor or Teacher.
All harassment counseling requires a written report to the Administration who will inform the student’s parents/guardians that he/she has been involved in an incident that has led to harassment counseling.
RESPONSIBILITY UPON LEARNING OF A POSSIBLE HARASSMENT OFFENSE Any faculty member or administrator, upon learning of what may be a violation of the Harassment Policy, has the following options:
1. Immediately report the evidence to the administration in writing.
2. Discuss the incident with the suspected offender or suspected victim, and:
If an offense is suspected but not proven, or if a student is engaging in behavior that he/she does not realize could constitute harassment, provide harassment counseling;
If it is determined that an offense may have occurred, report the student to the administration in writing;
If it appears that no violation was committed, take no further action.
Any Harassment Policy Violation should be reported in a timely manner.
INTERVENTION Upon receiving formal notification of a possible Harassment Policy violation, the administration will immediately begin an investigation using the following steps:
1. Discuss the incident with the suspected victim and/or suspected offender to determine if a possible violation of the Harassment Policy may have occurred.
2. Discuss the incident with any witnesses to verify or support victim and offender statements.
3. If evidence indicates a violation of the Harassment Policy has not occurred but continuing this behavior may constitute harassment, the student will be provided harassment counseling. Parents/guardians will be notified in writing of any harassment counseling.
4. If evidence indicates a possible violation of the Harassment Policy has occurred, the victim is given a Harassment Policy Violation Statement Complaint Form to complete. This statement form may be taken home so that parents/guardians are fully involved in the filing of the Harassment Policy Violation Complaint.
5. Upon receipt of the completed Harassment Policy Violation Statement Complaint Form, the Superintendent is notified that a Harassment Policy Complaint Form has been filed.
6. The administration will notify the suspected violator and parents/guardians in writing that he/she has been named in a Harassment Policy Violation Complaint Form.
7. A Harassment Response Team will be formed to review the pertinent information and investigate the alleged violation. The team will be composed of the administration, counselor and faculty member.
8. The Response Team will interview the student filing the Harassment Violation Complaint, the student named as the violator of the Harassment Policy, and any pertinent witnesses. Students involved in this process may be accompanied by parents/guardians during the interview with the Response Team.
9. The Response Team will make a ruling as to whether or not a violation has occurred.
10. The Response Team will make recommendations for possible actions and consequences in case of the violation.
11. A student who is a repeat offender may be recommended for expulsion, the principal and pastor are to make this final decision.
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BULLYING AND CYBERBULLYING St. Stephen Catholic School attempts to provide a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well‐being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (serious or in jest or online) face possible detention, suspension and/or expulsion.
STUDENTS UNDER COURT ORDER OR RELEASED ON BAIL ‐ POLICY NO. 2580 Effective: August 2002
Any student who has been arrested and charged with any felony or any misdemeanor involving assault or drug use and/or sale shall not be permitted to attend class pending the disposition of the charge. Instead, during the time the charge remains pending, the student shall receive materials that will allow the student to maintain class progress from home. Upon disposition of the charge, the school shall make a final determination regarding the student’s continued enrollment.
Any student who is the subject of a temporary restraining order which prevents the student from having contact with another student enrolled at the same school or teacher or other employee of the school, and which cannot be reasonably complied with if the student continues attending school, shall not be permitted to attend class pending the adjudication of the restraining order.
Instead, during the time the charge remains pending, the student shall receive materials that will allow the student to maintain class progress from home. Should the restraining order be entered permanently, the school may begin expulsion procedures for that student in accordance with Policy No. 2600.
TOBACCO, ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS ‐ POLICY NO. 2620 Effective: August 2002
Possession and/or use of tobacco, possession, use or being under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs, is prohibited on school premises and at all school sponsored activities. The possession, use, sale or attempted sale of tobacco, alcohol or illicit drugs may result in expulsion from the school and notification of the proper authorities.
WEAPONS IN SCHOOL ‐ POLICY NO. 2621 Effective: August 2013
Possession and Definition Possession and/or use of a weapon by students is detrimental to the welfare and safety of the students and school personnel with the school community. Possession is defined as having physical possession of a deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile, or the deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile being under the control of a student whether it be in a car, locker, backpack, or other location, under the control of or belonging to the student while on the school grounds and/or participating in a school‐sponsored activity.
Carrying, bringing, using or possessing a deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile on school grounds, when being transported in vehicles to/from a Catholic school, during a school‐sponsored activity or event, and off school property when the conduct has a reasonable connection to school or any school‐sponsored event without the authorization of the school is prohibited.
A deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile is defined as:
a. A firearm, whether loaded or unloaded. b. Any pellet, BB gun or other device, whether operational or not, designed to propel projectiles by spring
action or compressed air. c. A fixed blade knife with a blade that measures longer than three inches in length or a spring‐loaded knife or a
pocket knife with a blade longer than three and one‐half inches.
d. Any object, device, instrument, material, or substance‐whether animate or inanimate‐used or intended to be used to inflict death or serious bodily injury including, but not limited to, slingshot, nunchakus, spring gun, throwing star, bludgeon, brass knuckles or artificial knuckles of any kind.
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Mandatory Expulsion‐Expulsion is mandatory for deadly weapon possession and/or use in accordance with state and federal law.
The principal, upon consultation with the Pastor and the Superintendent, shall initiate expulsion proceeding as outlined in Expulsion, Policy # 2600 for any students who carry, bring, use or possess a deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile.
Expulsion shall be for no less than one full calendar year for a student who is determined to have brought a deadly weapon/weapon/facsimile to school or a school‐sponsored activity.
TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATIONS
STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (ELECTRONIC MEDIA) We are pleased to bring internet access to St. Stephen Catholic School and believe the Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both the student and teachers. Our goal in providing this service to teachers and the student is to promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.
Students and staff are responsible for their behavior, actions and communications when using the school’s network and computer technology. They are responsible for the appropriateness and content of material they store, transmit or publish on the system. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. Technology resources that are covered by this agreement include, but are not limited to, computers, servers, disk drives, printers, scanners, video and audio devices, cameras, software, telephones, electronic science probes, and other electronic computing resources.
Students will participate in a training class prior to being allowed to access the network, internet or use the e‐mail system. During this training the students will learn the proper use of technology as well as the laws that govern e‐ mail and internet use.
I. Internet/Network Use
1. The student will access the internet and network services at the direction of the teachers and for educational purposes only.
2. The student will not violate school polices as stated in this handbook, or as designated in other school or Church communications, including those prohibiting harassment or discrimination.
3. The student will never access another person’s folders or files.
4. The student will not post or distribute any pictures or documents that are considered defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, threatening, offensive, or contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
5. The student will not access sites that are deemed obscene, constitute pornography, or are contrary to the mission of the school. In the event that the student accesses an inappropriate site accidentally, he/she will notify the teacher immediately.
6. The student agrees never to use the internet for any activity that is considered illegal, criminal, or contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
7. The student will abide by all laws and school policies regarding copyright and plagiarism.
8. The student agrees never to tamper with or vandalize the property of the school or other users.
9. The student agrees never to download or upload any file, application or resource to or from the school’s network without prior permission of a teacher or system administrator.
10. The student agrees to report any misuse to the teacher or system administrator.
11. The school is not responsible for loss of data stored on the school computers or network.
II. E‐mail Use
1. The student may be asked to obtain an e‐mail address to be used for educational purposes. E‐mail will be used for teacher‐sponsored activities.
2. The student will be polite in all communications. The use of inappropriate language, which includes vulgarity, obscenities, threats or suggestive statements, is strictly prohibited.
3. The student agrees to keep his/her password and passwords of others confidential.
4. The student should never reveal personal information about themselves or others. This includes name,
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age, gender, photo, address, phone and other information that could allow a person to locate the user.
5. The student agrees to never arrange a meeting with any person while using the school’s e‐mail system.
6. The student agrees to notify a staff member if a request for personal information, harassing or threatening statements, or any transmission that causes the receiver to feel uncomfortable is received through the school’s account.
7. The student may not use chat rooms or instant messaging services.
III. Consequences
The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. Violation of any part of this policy can result in the following actions depending on the severity of the action. The school administration will determine the appropriate consequence.
Temporary suspension of privileges.
Permanent suspension of privileges.
Suspension from school.
Expulsion from school.
Report to local, state, or federal officials.
IV. Privacy There is no absolute Right to Privacy when using the school’s computer resources. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the system responsibly. School administration, faculty, and other authorized persons will have the right to review any and all material saved, transmitted, accessed, or momentarily in use by the student in accord with the policy set by the school’s administration. This right is extended to the student’s parents and/or legal guardian in accord with the school’s policy for review of student records and/or work. Users should not expect that files will be private.
V. Disclaimer With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting. St. Stephen Catholic School has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. However, on a global network it is impossible to control all materials and an industrious user may discover controversial information.
NOTES:
Please refer to Appendix C ‐ Student Agreement and Parent Permission Form. This form must be read and signed prior to use of the School’s Internet. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 4030 concerning e‐mail & internet use for additional information.)
COMMUNICATIONS A Newsletter is available to view on the St. Stephen Catholic School website (www.scsglenwood.org), , or sent home in Friday packets with the youngest child in the family (only if you do not have an email address). This newsletter contains all the important information and should be read bi-weekly. Friday is the day that all important information is sent home either from the school or individual teachers. Email is the preferred method of correspondence for the newsletter. Parents should check backpacks on Fridays.
E‐MAIL AND INTERNET USE ‐ POLICY NO. 4030 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2007
All electronic communications to or from any Archdiocesan preschool, elementary or high school shall reflect the Christian principals upon which the school is founded, in support of its mission, Catholic identity and educational goals.
All computers at the school are school property. The school and/or the Office of Catholic Schools reserve the right to view e‐mails sent from or to the school and/or any Internet sites accessed on school computers.
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SOCIAL MEDIA Any use of social media that violates St. Stephen or Diocesan policies, discloses any confidential or proprietary information, makes maliciously false comments about school or its staff, clients, or other business partners, or contains abusive comments, may result in disciplinary action. It is expected that students and parents use their judgment and act responsibly in all communications, regardless of how one communicates. If you are uncertain about the appropriateness of a social media posting, you should not post it prior to discussing with the Principal.
SYCAMORE EDUCATION SYSTEM Sycamore Education is a web-based communication service provided by St. Stephen Catholic School to assist parents in monitoring student academic, discipline and attendance status on an ongoing basis. All parents are strongly encouraged to register for and to regularly use this service.
DIRECTORY At any time during the year you can view and print the family directory for the entire school from the Sycamore Education online site. The directory will list the parent’s names, addresses, home telephone numbers and email addresses, as well as the student names. However, parents may choose to exclude any personal contact information from the directory.
In addition, you can also print the classroom directory for your child’s specific homeroom class. Again, parents may choose to exclude any personal contact information from the directory.
Any directory obtained from the Sycamore Education program should be used to acquaint parents with the names of their children(s) classmates and parents. These directories should not be used or sold for other purposes.
The Family Directory can be found once you have logged into your families Sycamore Education account. Go to FRONT DESK in the left-hand column menu. From the additional menu options, click on FAMILY DIRECTORY. From here you can search by last name or you can click the blue PRINT button in the upper right-hand corner of the screen. This will print an entire list of all families currently registered with St. Stephen Catholic School.
The Classroom Directory can be found on your child(s) homeroom class page. By clicking on your child(s) picture at the top of the screen, a new pop up box will appear. Click on SCHEDULE or GRADES. Once there you should see a listing of their current classes, select the main homeroom class of your child. You should now see a similar screen as the Sycamore homepage, but this will be your child’s classroom page. In the left-hand column, select FRONT DESK. From there you can select DIRECTORY. You can choose to just scroll through the list or you can print it using the blue PRINT button in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.
MESSAGES All messages should be delivered to the office, not directly to the child’s classroom, so that the instruction of the classroom is not interrupted. In an emergency, the secretary should be informed, and an exception will be made.
OFFICE PHONE Permission to use the telephone must be obtained from the school secretary or other authorized staff member. The telephone in the school office is a business phone and students are permitted to use it only in case of an emergency. The office personnel will contact the parents directly in cases of illness or injury. Forgotten homework athletic equipment, etc. does not constitute an emergency, and therefore phone privileges will not be granted. Arrangements for after‐school visits with friends should be made at home.
STUDENT CELLULAR PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES Students with personal cell phones are required to “park” their cell phone in the OFF position for the school day and may be requested to turn it in to their home room teacher. The cell phone will be available to be retrieved at the end of the day when all classroom duties are complete. Students are asked to use their cell phones in the lobby or vestibule of the school as a safety precaution. At no time during the day will the student be allowed to be on their cell phone or have the cell phone in his/her possession. If the student is found in possession of their cell phone during school hours, it may be taken away from them for the day and will not be able to be retrieved without a parent present. The administration reserves the right to search the contents of a confiscated cell phone.
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ST. STEPHEN SCHOOL EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM St. Stephen Catholic School has an Emergency Notification System in place as a means of communication for all school families. We will utilize the Sycamore Education text notification system and Flock Note to send out emergency text messages in the event of a school or weather emergency that requires the school to be closed. You are required to login to Sycamore and Flock Note to update your cell phone information, including your cell phone provider (i.e. Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, etc.) in order to be effective with the emergency notification procedure.
PROCEDURES TO ENABLE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM You will receive a login to access our online Sycamore Education System site. Log in to your family account. On the left hand side of the screen click: MY SCHOOL. Then click NOTIFICATIONS from the drop down menu. Proceed to filling out the screen by: selecting the PARENT from the drop down menu, then click the ENABLE button. Select the CELL PHONE NUMBER from the drop down list. Select the CARRIER from the drop down menu. Select the EMAIL account you want to use for bulk messaging from the Sycamore program. Make sure you click the PARENT CONTACT LIST button. Then hit the blue UPDATE button in the upper right hand corner.
We also ask that you login to Flock Note at https://app.flocknote.com/ststephen1885/dashboard to set up your communication login.
APPOINTMENTS AND VISITORS
APPOINTMENTS WITH THE PRINCIPAL Appointments with the Principal can be arranged by calling the office at 970‐945‐7746.
APPOINTMENTS WITH THE TEACHER Parents wishing to discuss any matter with the teacher should feel free to do so. This can be arranged by calling the school office between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. where you can leave a message in the office or you can send the teacher an email, as the teachers are in the classroom or with students most of the day. We ask that you respect your students’ teacher by not approaching them before or after school, during lunch time or during their planning period. Please schedule all visits, no matter how short they may be in an effort to respect the time of all involved.
IDENTIFICATION BADGES The students need to be able to easily identify safe adults. Adults (Volunteers and Staff) who are in a supervisory role with students are asked to wear their photo ID badge when supervising students. Please pick up a Visitor Badge in the front office when you arrive in the building.
CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS AND VISITS BY PARENTS We invite you to visit your child’s classroom during the school year. These visits will provide you with an excellent opportunity to know the teacher and see your children in the classroom environment. You may also join your child for lunch. If you are planning a visit, please adhere to the guidelines:
1. All visitors MUST sign in at the office upon arrival and MUST sign out when leaving.
2. All visitors must wear a VISITOR badge given at the office.
3. Contact the teacher in advance to arrange the visit.
4. Classroom visits should be limited to one hour.
5. You are asked to leave your preschooler or younger children at home.
6. Any questions that arise from your visit should be discussed with the teacher at a conference planned by you and the teacher.
CONTACT WITH STUDENTS DURING SCHOOL HOURS To contact a student during school hours, please visit or call the school office at 970‐945‐7746. Emergency messages will be delivered as the emergency warrants. The school does not interrupt, nor permit parents, students or visitors to interrupt class.
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ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS – POLICY NO. 3140 Effective: January 2003
Revised: November 2012; August 2017
School Employees
A) All newly hired school employees who do not hold a current Colorado Teacher and/or Principal License are subject to a background investigation conducted by approved vendors prior to the date they are offered employment.
B) Each applicant shall complete an appropriate application and authorization to obtain a criminal background check.
C) All applicants will be required to produce their date of birth and Social Security number for the purpose of conducting this background check through the approved vendors.
D) A copy of the completed employment application, together with a copy of the results of the background check, shall be kept in a confidential file at the local school or parish.
E) All employees hired before September 27, 2002 who do not hold a current Colorado Teacher and/or Principal license shall also agree to a comprehensive background check obtained from an approved vendor. The cost for this background check will be paid by the school/parish.
Volunteers
A) All regularly scheduled school volunteers are subject to a background investigation prior to the date they begin to volunteer their time.
B) Each volunteer shall complete a volunteer application and an authorization to obtain a criminal background check.
C) All volunteers will be required to produce their date of birth and Social Security number for the purpose of conducting this background check through the approved vendors.
D) A copy of the completed volunteer application, together with a copy of the results of the background check, shall be kept in a confidential file at the local school or parish.
E) All volunteers hired before September 27, 2002 who do not hold a current Colorado Teacher and/or Principal license shall also agree to a comprehensive background check obtained from an approved vendor. The cost for this background check will be paid by the school/parish.
CLASSROOM SELECTION In the event that there are two classes at a particular grade level, the principal and affected teachers, because of their professional ability, will determine what students are placed in each class. Selections are made with a goal to achieve the best possible learning environment both for the students and the teachers. Selections are based on the desire to have a heterogeneous group of students in academic ability, equal distribution of girls and boys, and personalities that are suited for one another.
Please schedule an appointment with your child’s current classroom teacher to discuss this process, if further clarification is needed.
TRANSFERS If a student is transferring to another school during the course of the school year, inform the teacher and the Principal ahead of time so that report cards and pertinent information can be ready on the last day of school, assuming all fees and tuition are current and paid up to date.
CHANGE OF RESIDENCE OR CONTACT INFORMATION It is very important that every student and family maintains an up‐to‐date contact information at the school office. Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address or telephone number during the school year. This will
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guarantee prompt action and notification in case of illness or accident. An emergency contact card will be given out the first day of school and are to be returned immediately. You are also required to update your information on the Sycamore Education program to ensure timely delivery of electronic communication.
STUDENT PERMANENT RECORDS – POLICY NO. 2320 Effective: August 2002
Permanent records shall be kept for individual students in accordance with the regulations of the Office of Catholic Schools. All Archdiocesan schools shall use the official cumulative record form as designated by the Office of Catholic Schools.
Permanent Records
A. A cumulative record is the student’s official record and shall contain only academic transcripts including attendance, academic test results, health records (unless kept in health office) and an emergency information form. An emergency information form shall be kept in a location designated by the principal.
B. Cumulative records of students are to be kept permanently in a fireproof file.
Access to Records
A. Administrators shall preserve both the integrity and privacy of the required student permanent records. B. Parents, as the primary educators, shall have the right to inspect and review the official record of their child.
Parents are to make this request in writing to the principal or director. C. A parent not having custody of a child, but having the right of visitation, has a right commensurate with the
parent having custody to examine the school record of the child. In order to establish visitation rights, parents must provide a certified copy of the most recent court order.
D. Students in foster homes may have been placed in a school by court order and frequently are supervised by a child placement agency. It is advisable to consult with the agency regarding the parent’s request for and legal right to information.
E. Access to student permanent records shall be made available to Archdiocesan officials, teachers, clerical staff, and other persons who have a legitimate educational purpose in accordance with the regulations of the Office of Catholic Schools.
Release of Student Permanent Records
A. Upon written request, schools shall release official transcripts to another school in which the student intends to enroll or in compliance with a court order to release information concerning a student. Unless the parent has initiated the request, a reasonable attempt must be made to notify the parent of the request for records.
B. All other requests for release of student permanent records may be granted only with the written authorization of the parents or the student if 18 years of age or older.
Maintenance of Student Permanent Records
B. All student permanent records must be kept in perpetuity by the school or by the parish if the school closes.
SUBPOENA OF RECORDS ‐ POLICY NO. 2330 Effective: August 2002
When a subpoena requesting records or testimony is served, the principal should notify the Office of Catholic Schools immediately and proceed according to their instructions. A lawyer requesting to investigate school records without a subpoena may not be allowed to see the records, nor should the lawyer be allowed to obtain information from teachers.
CHILD CUSTODY ISSUES ‐ POLICY NO. 2140 Effective: August 2002
Custodial parents/legal guardians shall be recognized by the school as the primary decision‐makers for their children. Legal documentation regarding custody and visitation shall be provided to the school by the custodial parent(s)/legal guardian(s) at the time of registration. The school shall be notified immediately regarding any changes to custodial provisions.
Non‐custodial parents shall have access to school records, conferences, and information unless otherwise restricted by
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court order. It is the obligation of parents to properly inform the school of limit of access to children, records or other information.
Non‐custodial parents may not use the school for the purpose of circumventing custody orders or visitation rights.
School officials (i.e., principals, assistant principals, teachers) are not to offer to testify on behalf of one parent or another in situations of divorce, child custody matters, etc. If a school official receives a subpoena to testify, refer to Subpoena of Records, Policy #2330.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS Every student will periodically be taught by a substitute teacher. The most common reason for using substitute teachers occurs when the regular teacher is ill. However, substitutes are also used when the regular teachers are on leave for personal business, professional training, or family emergency. Students are expected to be extra courteous to substitute teachers.
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS Students must be supervised by a faculty or staff member; an administrator; or moderator, substitute or volunteer at all times during the regularly scheduled school day; during school sponsored field trips, retreats and service activities; and during on‐campus, school sponsored activities.
Teachers, counselors, substitute teachers, supervisors and moderators accept total responsibility for the activity in their care during school hours; during school sponsored field trips, retreats and activities; and during school sanctioned on campus activities.
EMERGENCY DRILLS Fire drills are conducted on a regular basis throughout the school year. Detailed escape plans are posted inside the door of each classroom. Each class has an escape route to an outside area that is a safe‐distance from the building. During fire drills, students should follow these regulations:
1. Rise in silence when the alarm sounds;
2. Close windows and doors;
3. Walk to the assigned place briskly, in single file at all times, and in silence;
4. Stand in a column of two’s, facing away from the building;
5. Return to building when signal is given.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – POLICY NO. 1300 Effective: August 2002
Revised: August 2010
Crisis Plans
A. All principals/directors in cooperation with the faculty shall develop written general and specific crisis procedure plans, which shall be reviewed annually. These plans should provide specific procedures for emergency situations including, but not limited to intruders from within, intruders from outside, fire, tornado, and earthquake.
B. They should also include, at a minimum, information regarding evacuation, notification of police and other appropriate authorities, signals/codes for personnel, a system to contact parents or responsible parties, a system for release of students, provision for site isolation, methods of communication, both internal and external, first aid, faculty and staff assignments, closing of school and early dismissal of students.
C. In the event of a natural disaster, the school shall respond to directions given by the Office of Catholic Schools or local governing authority.
D. The responsibility for determining whether the building should be evacuated rests with the principal. In the absence of the principal, the assistant principal, or the principal’s designee, who shall be a certified teacher, shall be responsible for carrying out the emergency procedures.
E. Copies of the procedures are to be distributed to all school personnel and families. All school personnel, including those involved in coaching and before and after school programs, shall be instructed in these
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procedures. Any emergency, disaster, or dangerous situation shall be reported to the pastor and to the Superintendent as soon as possible.
Emergency Drills
A. Written standards of procedures for emergency drills (fire, tornado, etc.) shall be posted in each classroom, gymnasium, cafeteria, and all other occupied areas of the building. All occupants of the building shall be made aware of the emergency procedures as posted.
B. Drills for tornados shall be practiced a minimum of two times per year, once in the fall and once in the spring. C. Drills for fire shall be practiced one time per month or more frequently, if required by local fire regulations;
results of each drill shall be recorded, noting dates and times of evacuation, problems observed, and corrective actions taken.
D. Fire extinguishers shall be placed in appropriate locations, clearly identified, and checked annually or more frequently, if required by local fire regulations.
Non‐Authorized Persons
A. All preschools, elementary school and archdiocesan high schools shall establish procedures to register visitors on campus and monitor non‐authorized persons. Persons with no legitimate reason or written authorization to be on the school grounds should be asked to leave by any school personnel. If the person does not leave, the police should be called immediately.
VOLUNTEERING AND FUND-RAISING
St. Stephen Catholic School considers its parent volunteers a very special resource and encourages all parents to get involved wherever they can. As you work with students, keep these ideas in mind:
1. Be consistent when working with the students. 2. Learn school rules and ensure the students follow them, including but not limited to the uniform policy. 3. Be dependable. The teacher and students are depending on you. 4. Reward students for success. Praise is usually enough, but once in a while something special can be given as
a reward, like an Eagle Feather. 5. Help students learn how to do their work. 6. Ask for help when you find a problem that you feel you may not be able to handle. 7. Your interest and enthusiasm as a volunteer may be the single most important part of success in learning
for the students. 8. Discuss the student and his/her progress with the teacher only.
All individuals who volunteer in the school or for school functions must complete the Volunteer Sign‐Up Sheet, and based on the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People drafted by the U.S. bishops requires the following guidelines of volunteers must also be completed:
1. Attendance verified and Called to Protect (formally called‐Safe Environment) completed, 2. Code of Conduct signed and on file in the school office 3. Completed Background Checks which must be free and clear of any violations
We want your volunteer experience to be a successful one and in order to give our students undivided attention and in consideration to our teachers, please find please alternative care for your younger children outside of the school rather than bringing them into the classrooms. If you cannot find an alternative place for them, please inquire about other ways to help outside the classroom/school for your 40‐hour service requirement. (This policy will be addressed and reinforced on an individual basis.)
REQUIRED SERVICE HOURS The SSPTA requires each family give of its time by donating 40 service hours each school year. Volunteer support may be provided in a variety of ways, including by attending the monthly SSPTA meetings, volunteering in the classroom,
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assisting with classroom field trips, recess or lunchroom duty and volunteering at fundraisers.
OPT OUT OPTION OF VOLUNTEER/SERVICE HOURS If a time commitment is a concern, you have the option to “opt out” of your service hours by paying a one‐time donation of $550 per school year which relieves you of your 40 service hours for the school year. You are still required to participate in our required fundraising events with the selling of assigned tickets or purchasing Scrip cards.
TRACKING OF SERVICE HOURS St. Stephen Catholic School has a tracking system available through the Sycamore Education site. You are responsible for logging in your volunteer hours. Any fundraiser offsite will be monitored by the Committee Head of the event. Please report all hours worked to the Committee Head at the time of the event, and then log your hours into the Sycamore Education site.
RECONCILIATION OF SERVICE HOURS A reconciliation of service hours will be done at the end of the school year for each family. Families will be notified of any hours that are NOT fulfilled and asked to make a donation at a rate of $13.75/hour that they did not fulfill.
FUND RAISING PROJECTS ‐ POLICY NO. 5040 Effective: August 2002
No organization may promote a fundraising project in the school’s name without prior approval of the school principal/director and pastor in parish preschools and elementary schools and by the principal and Superintendent in Archdiocesan high schools.
FUND RAISING / SCHOOL VOLUNTEER HOURS ‐ POLICY NO. 5090 Effective: August 2002
At all times schools will comply with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines that address fundraising and volunteer hours.
A) Schools may not impose fines for volunteer hours not completed by parents or accept payment in lieu of volunteer hours.
B) Schools may neither require nor allow parents to work in lieu of tuition.
C) Schools may not impose fines for fund raising obligations not met by parents.
D) Schools may require that parents purchase a reasonable amount of Scrip Certificates.
NO FUND RAISING REVENUE – POLICY NO. 5050 Effective: August 2002
All funds collected by the various activity groups of the school shall be deposited in an authorized school/parish account. Those funds shall be disbursed by the school in the approved procedure for purchasing and disbursements.
These fund raising revenues are monitored and administered by the principal/director and pastor in parish preschools and elementary schools and by the principal and Superintendent in Archdiocesan high schools.
Unless previously designated and approved by the principal/director and pastor/Superintendent, all funds raised on behalf of the school or its activities associations are ultimately used at the discretion of the principal, director, pastor and Superintendent.
The pastor must have his signature on any account. Bank statements must be mailed to the pastor for parish schools and to the principal for Archdiocesan high schools who shall review them and pass them along to the appropriate individual for reconciliations.
This policy should be disseminated to the appropriate officers, associations and activity groups.
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FIELD TRIP POLICIES
FIELD TRIPS
1. Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching unites and to achieve curricular goals.
2. Field trips are re‐evaluated each year to determine the trips compatibility with curricular goals.
3. A field trip is a privilege and not a right.
4. There are no “traditional” field trips. Class participation in a particular field trip over consecutive years does not mean that this trip has become a school tradition.
5. All grades do not always have the same number of field trips.
6. Field trips are permissible for all grades when advanced planning, location, and the experience insure a successful learning opportunity.
7. Individual teacher, in consultation with the administration, reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct.
8. A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip activity. Verbal or electronic permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due in the office forty‐eight hours after receipt of the permission slip.
9. A field trip permission slip is printed at the end of this book and is available on the school website. This is the only format that may be used to allow a student to leave school during school hours. If your child fails to bring his/her permission slip home, you may tear out, make a copy of or print the form from the website. Call the school for the information needed to complete the blank form. Note: a fax does not take the place of an original signature, and will not be accepted.
10. A telephone call or email will not be accepted in lieu of the proper field trip permission slip.
11. Parents may refuse to permit their child from participating in a field trip by stating so on the proper form. Students who do not attend a field trip will remain at home with the parent and will be marked absent for the day.
12. Cell phones are not allowed on field trips unless otherwise directed by the teacher and/or administration.
13. Parents who are not “official” chaperones may not drive their car to a field trip destination with the plan of accompanying the class on the field trip. Our risk management insurance company insures the “official” chaperones and participation by an unofficial chaperone jeopardizes the protection for our students and all other “official” adults on the trip. Parents may drive only their own children, but will not be considered an “official” chaperone. A non‐official chaperone parent is not considered a part of the field trip, and all travel and mileage expenses will be at the non‐official chaperone’s expense. If the non‐official chaperone intends to participate in a tour or show, they are responsible for all fees. No fees of a non‐official chaperone will be paid for by the school.
14. Parents who chaperone a field trip may not bring pre‐school or other school‐age siblings on the field trip.
15. All chaperones must be 25 years of age or older.
FIELD TRIP CHAPERONE REQUIREMENTS All “official” field trip chaperones must have received the Called to Protect Certification. If you are also driving, you must follow the Volunteer Driver Requirements below.
VOLUNTEER DRIVERS REQUIREMENTS The Archdiocese does not provide insurance coverage to employees, parishioners, volunteers’ including coaches or parents of school children for privately owned/operated motor vehicles. Under Colorado Motor Vehicle Code, the owner of the vehicle is responsible for insuring the vehicle
In addition to having to have received the Called to Protect Certification, parents who provide transportation for any field trip are to provide a copy of their valid drivers’ license, a copy of their current automobile insurance and must fill out a Driver Agreement Form (see additional details below). The vehicle being used for transportation must have enough seat belts for the number of children being transported and booster seats, when needed.
In the event that the background check from the Called to Protect Certification is questionable, it will be at the
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discretion of the Pastor and principal to determine the level of volunteerism. This will also apply if during the term of the Called to Protect certification a questionable event happens that creates a “flag”, the Pastor and principal must be notified and then they will determine what is acceptable for volunteering within the school or for school functions.
If the field trip requires parent drivers, the volunteer driver must complete an online Defensive Driving course through the Archdiocese. Once complete, you must also turn in a copy of the Certificate of Completion.
Drivers must sign acknowledgement of our “Volunteer Driver Agreement”, drivers must abide by Colorado’s Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Law, please refer to Appendix F ‐ Colorado CPS Law for complete details.
CELLULAR PHONE USE WHEN VOLUNTEERING A survey of 1,026 drivers conducted by the Network of Employers for traffic Safety showed that distracted driving is considered the fourth most serious driving safety problem, following drunk driving, aggressive driving, and speeding. The survey noted that the use of cell phones is a major distraction, along with talking to passengers, adjusting radio/temperature controls, eating or reading, and picking up something that had fallen.
To promote safe driving, employees and volunteers are asked not to use cell phones when operating a vehicle. Employees should park whenever they need to use the cell phone, except in cases of emergency. Generally, stopping on the shoulder of the road is not acceptable as it may be hazardous.
CURRICULUM INFORMATION
TEXTBOOKS AND RESOURCES TO SUPPORT THE CURRICULUM ‐ POLICY NO. 4020 Effective: August 2002
The Office of Catholic Schools issues a list of approved textbooks for the various subject areas. Textbook selection for individual schools must be made from the approved list. Any deviation from that list will be made only with the permission of the Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Staff Development with the approval of the Superintendent.
To guarantee the selection of appropriate materials, textbook evaluation committees consisting of teachers, principals and/or other curriculum experts are appointed by the Office of Catholic Schools. These committees are charged with the task of reviewing materials available in each of the subject areas and forming recommendations for the Office of Catholic Schools regarding textbook selection.
Principals, with faculty input, may choose textbooks that are best suited for the levels of primary, intermediate and middle school as long as they are from the approved list. Additional resources that align with and support the curriculum may be used.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Religious education is not confined to an instructional program but something which permeates the entire day. Formal religious instruction is given daily in the classroom using a variety of methods and materials. Staff members strive to build a Christian community for themselves, the students and their families.
Parents are encouraged to play a vital role in the religious formation of their children by regular family participation in parish liturgies and in religious education programs so that they may better share their belief in God with their children.
Students attend and actively participate in weekly celebrations of the Eucharist. Periodic penance services and other para‐liturgical ceremonies are scheduled throughout the year. Parents and families are encouraged to attend.
RELIGIOUS OBSERVATIONS Effective: August 2002
The faculty and students of Archdiocesan schools shall participate in daily prayer, regularly scheduled liturgies and other devotions. Schools must provide liturgy on holy days and at a minimum of once a month. Traditional devotions including but not limited to the Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Benediction and May Crowning should be provided. No principal, teacher or student will be exempted from participation in religious observances that are deemed part of the school program.
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KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM The full‐day curriculum includes religion, math, language arts, social studies, science, physical education, music, Spanish and art. The goal of Kindergarten is to prepare the student for first grade by providing guidance in helping each child acquire appropriate behaviors, attitudes, values and knowledge about his/her self physically, socially, intellectually and spiritually.
Religion in Kindergarten opens the children to discovery of goodness and beauty of God as reflected in their world. It enables the children to experience their world as part of a Christian community and helps them begin to sense the loving presence of God. We offer both a full day kindergarten program as well as a morning half day option. The half day program focuses primarily on religion, math and integrated social studies, science and language arts.
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM The language arts program used at St. Stephen School is designed to help students achieve excellence in content and to develop a lifetime interest in reading and writing. The program is literature‐based integrating reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary, phonics, grammar, listening, and speaking skills woven around themes that are of interest to various age and ability groups.
Instruction is based on and reflects the understanding that language arts is part of the total process of communicating, not a body of content nor skills isolated from the process. Instruction varies matching the learning levels and rates of the students. The program promotes student involvement, insures successful mastery of reading skills, helps provide for the differences among students, and gives them the opportunity to become independent and enthusiastic readers and writers.
MATH CURRICULUM The math program is centered on preparing our student to think about math in varied ways to prepare them for the
challenges of the 21st century learner. Knowledge of basic mathematical facts and principles are stressed. Drills and practice are included as an integral component of the program through reinforcement. In addition to essential basic math skills, problem solving instruction and reading comprehension of Math concepts, are given. Technology is integrated into the math curriculum as a means for additional practice based on student ability, as well as real world experiences.
Singapore Math revolves around several key number‐sense strategies: (1) building number sense through part‐whole thinking, (2) understanding place value, and (3) breaking numbers into decomposed parts or friendlier numbers, ones that are easier to work with in the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division). We utilize
Singapore Math in the 1st through 5th grades.
This math relies on model drawing, which uses units to visually represent a word problem. Students learn to visualize what a word problem is saying so they can understand the meaning and thus how to solve the problem. Instruction includes mental math, which teaches students to calculate in their heads without using paper and pencil.
Number sense, place value, calculations, operations, puzzles, word problems, problem solving, visuals, relationships— are all familiar parts of math. Singapore Math just provides some new vocabulary, strategies and a structure that enables students to learn mathematics to mastery and prepare them for algebraic reasoning and beyond.
SCIENCE CURRICULUM The science program employs a hands‐on experiential approach integrating: scientific inquiry, resources and technology, life, physical, space, and earth science throughout all of the grades beginning in Kindergarten. This interdisciplinary approach enables the school to provide a sufficient broad and strong scientific foundation for continued learning.
SCIENCE FAIR Each year our students participate in an all-school science fair which is one of the highlights of our academic year. Parents are encouraged to support this activity and to promote the interests of their children in the science fair projects.
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SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM Map skills, geographic knowledge and history are a constant throughout the social studies’ program. The emphasis is on; knowledge, understanding, values, critical thinking and study skills as the children explore their world‐past and present.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM St. Stephen Catholic School provides a balanced physical education program proportioned to the needs, interests, and abilities of all students. Primary emphasis shall be placed on the development of skills and positive personal attitudes which will enable students to participate in physical activities in the future. Because of the active nature of our physical education program, students are encouraged to be covered with appropriate insurance against injury.
ART CURRICULUM St. Stephen School believes every child possesses a natural and pure artistic instinct. In art class, students learn to really look at the world around them, to experience color, texture, shapes and value.
They learn to appreciate other student’s work through “critique” sessions that emphasize the positive aspects of each other’s work. Students do a variety of projects that let their individuality shine. Art history is also an important part of what they learn in art. They learn the importance of art in our society and of other cultures around the world.
Art literacy is an important component in the education of a child, because of this, field trips to the Aspen and Denver Art Museums are incorporated into the art program, when funds allow. We hold an annual Art Show where certain pieces of our students’ art work is displayed for families to see and to also participate in hands‐on art during the show.
MUSIC CURRICULUM Musical experiences and theory are incorporated into the music program at St. Stephen Catholic School. In keeping with St. Stephen Catholic School philosophy of educating the whole child, music is an important part of the curriculum at all grade levels.
Children receive training in developing a musical ear, finding their singing voice, rhythm and basic musical notation not only with singing but with various musical instruments. The students are taught liturgical songs, which are appropriate for Eucharistic and para‐liturgical celebrations, as well as other selections appropriate to the various grade levels. Our middle school students learn to play classical guitar which is taught in partnership with the Aspen Music Festival’s Lead Guitar Program. Music programs are presented throughout the year to families and friends.
TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM Technology will enrich St. Stephen Catholic School by offering:
• Interactive, experiential learning and faith formation; • Seamless access to real‐time local and global educational resources; • A parish and school community that can communicate and administrate at the push of a button.
ACADEMIC PROBATION A student whose academic performance indicates serious deficiencies may be placed on academic probation. Students who has a classroom subject average of an F will not be allowed to participate in any sport or academic competition until the grade has improved to a passing grade of D (70% or higher).
CO‐CURRICULAR PROGRAMS At this time St. Stephen Catholic School does not have a Co‐Curricular program, however students enrolled in St. Stephen Catholic School are allowed and encouraged to contact the public schools in the RE‐1 and RE‐2 school district and the Glenwood Springs Community Center to participate in their Co‐Curricular programs.
However, if the students’ grades are not acceptable, they will not be allowed to participate in Co‐Curricular programs.
LIBRARY USAGE St. Stephen Catholic School’s Library is primarily for the use of the faculty and students of St. Stephen Catholic School. Students are encouraged to use the library for curricular enrichment and pleasure reading. The number of books
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withdrawn and for what length of time is at the discretion of the school librarian and classroom teacher.
1. There are no fines for overdue books, although some form of discipline for long overdue books may be imposed.
2. Students are responsible for lost or damaged books. The cost of the book will be billed to the parents. Students who have lost or damaged books do not receive progress reports or quarterly report cards until the book is found or replacement fees have been paid in full.
3. If a student has a lost or damaged book, they will not be permitted to check out additional books until the book is returned and any cost associated with the replacement book has been paid.
4. If a book is lost during the school year, paid for, and then found and returned to the library in good condition, the full amount paid will be refunded.
5. Library materials reflect the educational programs of the school, promote reading and study skills, and increase students’ awareness of their world.
6. Complaints will occasionally be received concerning the selection of library materials: a complainant should be informed of the library materials selection process as a first step in
answering the complaint;
a formal reconsideration should be submitted, and the materials in question should be held on the shelf until an ad hoc committee can review the materials;
the committee will review the selection process and the specific materials and make a recommendation to the Principal, who will make the final decision.
TEXTBOOKS All textbooks are the property of St. Stephen School and are on loan to students for their use. All classroom texts are to be covered at all times in order to prolong the life of these books. The students are responsible for the textbooks issued to them at the beginning of the year. In the event of damage or loss, the student is responsible for the replacement of the textbook or payment of a fine. If a student is issued a damaged textbook at the beginning of the year, parents are asked to bring this to the attention of the teacher as soon as possible. (Refer to Archdiocese Policy #4020.)
GRADUATION/CONTINUATION – POLICY NO. 2460 Effective: August 2002
Graduation/continuation exercises from either elementary or secondary schools shall take place no earlier than one week preceding the closure of school.
Graduation/continuation from elementary school should be kept appropriately simple and inexpensive. A Eucharistic liturgy shall be central to the graduation/continuation ceremony and should be followed by a simple, dignified exercise, which recognized the unique value of the Catholic education just completed.
Graduation from high school more specifically represents the beginning of a more adult life in either post‐high school education or in the work world. Hence, the occasion merits greater ceremony in its celebration. Baccalaureate addressed, a Eucharistic liturgy, and awarding of honors and diplomas in a formal, dignified ceremony are to be held as separate events.
Minimum state requirements for secondary graduation must be met in addition to local school requirements regarding graduations.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF TEACHERS
The primary responsibility of our teachers, are to guide learning experiences within the capabilities of each student. We hope to develop the skills, knowledge, appreciation and ideals necessary for the student to become a productive member of society. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 4310 concerning political issues for additional information.) There are five areas of specific responsibility for each teacher:
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1. Continued acquisition of subject matter knowledge and effective techniques of instruction.
2. Daily professional preparation including lesson plans for substitutes.
3. Providing a favorable learning environment through effective classroom management.
4. Continuous pupil evaluation and periodic reporting based on subjective and objective observation.
5. Outside classroom duties such as attendance at professional meetings, playground/recess assignments, lunchroom duties and extracurricular committees.
STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM The Catholic Schools in our Archdiocese use STAR Assessments which are standards-based, computer-adaptive assessments that measure students’ reading comprehension and math skills to monitor achievement and growth, and track understanding of focus skills aligned to the Archdiocesan learning standards.
In addition to STAR Assessments, St. Stephen will continue to use the Iowa Assessments (IA), formerly known as the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS), as their basic, standardized testing program. The IA is a norm referenced test. As such, the scores register what students know compared to what they have learned. Students bring to school knowledge related to native ability, family education level, socioeconomic status, the language or languages spoken in the home, and life experiences are reflected in these scores. Schools focus and organize this knowledge, add to it, and apply it to their lessons. The test does not measure the effectiveness of student learning compared to specific objectives as in criterion referenced tests. The best use of this test is to compare the average scores of groups of students to a normal test group and to the identify grade level proficiencies. The comparisons are most effective when used with smaller groups and with individuals, and then only when used in light of teacher observations and other student work.
Within the appropriate context, it is convenient and appropriate to use these scores as a broad report of achievement. The Catholic school standardized testing program should include readiness, aptitude and achievement tests. The testing program has three principal purposes:
1. To assist the teacher in improving the quality of instruction.
2. To assist the school in curriculum evaluation, planning and development.
3. To assist the Department of Catholic Schools in research and planning for the school system.
Standard Achievement Tests provide the teacher, the school and the Office of Catholic Schools with valuable data concerning instructional success as compared with national success rates. Teachers, principals and the Office of Catholic Schools should be aware of the valid uses and the limitations of such data and should take care to use testing scores properly. Other methods of program evaluation should be employed regularly. Test results will be mailed to parents.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCE INFORMATION These conferences provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to work together in order to facilitate your child’s education at St. Stephen Catholic School. Parent conferences provide a time to exchange information and to jointly work towards the best possible educational program. The primary objective of meeting is to help everyone ‐ child, teacher and parent(s). In order for all to succeed, the school and home must work together towards the common goal of promoting educational excellence.
At the end of the first quarter, parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for all families in the school. Although the time given to individual conferences is, of necessity, short, the time is well spent. Occasionally, a problem is discovered during the year which requires a lengthier conference. Individual conferences may be initiated at the request of a parent or teacher.
A parent/teacher conference gives you a chance to:
get to know your child’s teacher
learn about the school and its curriculum
discuss your child’s strengths and weaknesses in various areas
ask questions
give teachers information that will help them better understand your child’s needs
work with us in planning your child’s school year
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CONFERENCE PREPARATION
1. Make a list of things that will help the teacher understand your child better. For example:
any special health needs or problems
feelings about school
any outside interest and hobbies
relationships with brothers and sisters
2. Make a list of things you want to find out from the teacher:
extracurricular activities
discipline policy (this handbook)
grading policy (this handbook)
daily schedule
homework policy (this handbook)
any other concerns during the conferences
3. We will talk about your child’s school progress in areas such as:
ability to do school work
current functioning in subject areas to include some samples of student’s work
special interests and abilities
4. We will also discuss your child’s social progress in areas such as:
how they get along with others
how they feel about themselves
behavior in and out of classroom
5. Some things to remember about the conferences are:
It is especially helpful if both parents can attend the conference.
Be on time ‐ try to follow the schedule that has been set up.
If your schedule is difficult, check with the teacher about arranging a special time for your conference.
If you feel you need more time, ask about scheduling an additional conference. We hope this information will help you in preparing for your parent/teacher conferences. Many other things will arise during these conferences that will help us to assist and guide your children throughout the remainder of the school year. We are certain these conferences will be positive and growth productive for all.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION The welfare of the individual student is the most important consideration in the promotion/retention decision. Parents, teachers and administrators are all expected to keep this in mind when participating in the decision process.
Evaluation for promotion/retention should involve many aspects of student activity. Academic, physical, social and emotional growth should all be considered. The tools for evaluation should include classroom tests, standardized tests, teacher evaluations and parent/teacher conferences. Retention should be considered when a student is performing significantly below grade level due to indifference, lack of effort, physical or emotional immaturity, or excessive absenteeism.
It has been established that retention prior to the third grade usually creates a significantly more positive experience than retention at a later time. However, repeated retention of students is not generally useful.
Several timely procedures have been established in order to ensure good communication and thorough evaluation in potential retention cases. Teachers are required to notify the Principal of any students who are being considered for retention. These procedures will allow for close cooperation between the student, parents, teacher, and Principal.
Teachers and administrators understand that serious disagreements can occur with parents over the question of promotion/retention. The procedures for considering retention are intended to solve these disagreements whenever possible, but the decision can be difficult, and a unanimous decision cannot always be reached.
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NOTE: Promotion of students shall be based on completion of academic work, mastery of academic skills and social skills.
Teachers, parents or the Principal may initiate a request for a double promotion. The request, with appropriate justifications, should be shared with all concerned parties. An evaluation demonstrating accelerated progress in the following areas should be completed: social skills, classroom skills, emotional maturity, physical development and academics. The student’s present teacher and prospective teacher should participate in this evaluation. A conference should be held when the evaluation is complete, and parents, teachers, and the Principal should participate. A mutual and unanimous decision should be sought. However, in the event of a disagreement, the Principal is required to make the final decision regarding a double promotion.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES If there is concern regarding a particular child in a classroom, this must be brought to the attention of the parent(s), other teachers, and administration. The following list of steps must be taken:
1. Teacher(s) must record observations for 6 weeks.
2. Discuss observations and concerns with other teachers.
3. Contact the child’s parents and set up a meeting to discuss. Make sure that proper administration members (principal) are aware of the meeting and know what will be discussed. Have them present if needed.
4. Provide parent(s) with strategies to implement to work on areas of concern that the teacher has observed.
5. Set a follow‐up meeting and discuss how the strategies are working and if any improvement has been made.
If no improvement is made, then the public school district must be contacted. At this time, the teacher will need to set up an RTI (Response To Intervention) with the public school’s special education director. At this time the next following steps must be taken:
1. Set up RTI meeting with parent(s), teacher(s), and special education staff member. Discuss other new strategies that can be implemented.
2. Set a follow‐up meeting to discuss whether the strategies have worked or are working.
3. If strategies have not worked, then the child must be tested.
4. After the test, a staffing (a meeting between the district representative, school representative and the parents) must be set up to analyze the test and evaluate the results. Once this has been completed, a decision is made stating whether the child must receive special education services.
If a child does qualify for special services, they are given a couple choices to choose from since they do not go to the public school. They may either take their child to the public school, during the regular school hours, to work with an aide or get tutoring, either from an outside source or with a current staff member of St. Stephen Catholic School based on the needs assessment. This is where BOCES becomes involved because they are the ones who will then give the public school and the family the money for the resource they choose.
SUMMER SCHOOL Summer School classes may be provided by St. Stephen Catholic School faculty for students with the opportunity to improve their basic skills or to make up course work they might have missed during the regular school year. If you feel that your child would benefit from a school program and needs additional teacher input, please contact the school to make an appointment with our child’s classroom teacher. (Phone number: 945‐7746).
REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND/OR NEGLECT ‐ POLICY NO. 2200 Revised: August 2012
Colorado law (§§ 19‐3‐304 (1), (2), (2.5) 19‐3‐311) requires the reporting by school personnel of suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to the appropriate county department or local law enforcement agency.
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HEALTH RELATED SERVICES & ACTIVITIES
Accidents and Illness at School Policy Effective: August 2002 – Policy #2220
Revised: August 2013
No medication, including aspirin, cough‐and‐cold medication, decongestants, or other over the counter or prescription medications shall be administered by any school personnel, including a nurse, except under the following conditions:
1. Written orders from a physician shall be on file at the school stating:
Child’s Name
Name of Drug
Dosage
Purpose of Medication
Time of Day / Circumstances in which the medication is to be given
Anticipated Number of Days it must be given
Possible Side Effects Storage Instructions
2. Whenever possible, the parent is requested to be present to administer the medication.
3. If the parent is unable to be present, only the Principal or the Principal’s designee (a person having trained in a medical administration class by the school nurse) may administer the medication according to the physician’s written instructions. In such a case, the parent must submit a written request (refer to Appendix D ‐ Medical Release Form) to the school in order to have the school administer the medication.
4. The medication must be brought in a container appropriately labeled by a pharmacy or physician. These medications will be safeguarded at school to avoid being ingested by the wrong child.
5. Individual records of such medications administered by the school will be kept indefinitely.
6. If a student has a medical condition that might require medication on an emergency basis (e.g., in the case of a child’s allergic reaction, asthma attack, etc.), the student’s family will provide all necessary information and training or instruction to the school personnel who might be responsible for administering the medication.
ALLERGY POLICY St. Stephen Catholic School recognizes that an allergy is an important condition affecting many school children and positively welcomes all pupils with allergies.
This school encourages children with allergies to achieve their potential in all aspects of school life by having a clear policy that is understood by school staff and pupils. Teachers and new staff are also made aware of the policy. All staff who come into contact with children with allergies are provided with training on allergies from the school nurse or staff member who has had specialized training. Training is updates as needed.
1. Asthma Medication: Immediate access to reliever inhalers is vital. Children are encouraged to carry their reliever inhaler. Parents are asked to ensure that the school is provided with a labeled spare reliever inhaler. All inhalers must be labeled with the child’s name by the parent.
a. Record Keeping: At the beginning of each school year, or when a child joins St. Stephen Catholic School, parents are asked to submit a child’s medical record. From this information the school keeps its asthma register which is available for all school staff. If medication changes in between times, parents are required to inform the school.
2. The School Environment: The school does all that it can to ensure the school environment is favorable to children with asthma and allergies. As far as possible the school does not use chemicals in science and art lessons that are potential triggers for children with asthma.
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3. Food Allergy Policy: St. Stephen Catholic School recognizes that life threatening food allergies are an important condition affecting may school children and positively welcomes all pupils with food allergies. In order to minimize the incidence of life threatening allergic reactions, St. Stephen Catholic School will maintain a system‐wide procedure for addressing life threatening allergic reactions and maintain an Emergency Action Plan for any student(s) whose parent/guardians, and physicians have informed the school in writing that the student(s) has a potentially life-threatening allergy.
4. Classroom and Lunchroom:
a. Teacher must be familiar with the Emergency Action Plan of students in their classrooms and lunch room duty and respond to emergencies as per the emergency protocol documented in the Emergency Action Plan.
b. In the event of a suspected allergic reaction (where this is no known allergic history), the school nurse or staff member will be called, and the school’s Emergency Response Plan activated. The emergency medical services will be called immediately.
c. The classrooms have easy access with the school nurse or trained staff member.
d. Information will be kept about students’ food allergies in the classroom, lunchroom and in the substitute emergency folder, accessible by teachers, substitutes or other responsible adults.
e. A parent or guardian of a student with food allergies is responsible for providing all food for his/her own child.
f. There will be a food allergy table in the lunchroom available for any students with food allergies. All tables will be washed with soap and water following any food related events held in the classroom and after lunch.
g. Proper hand cleaning techniques will be taught and encouraged before and after the handling and/or consumption of food.
CERTIFICATES OF IMMUNIZATION ‐ POLICY NO. 2080 Effective: August 2002
All Archdiocesan schools shall comply with Colorado law which states that no child may attend school unless such child can present a valid certificate of immunization against communicable diseases or a plan for immunization as specified by the State Board of Health.
Requests for exemption will be granted only in accordance with Colorado law. Forms provided by the Colorado Department of Health shall be kept on file and available for review.
CONCUSSION GUIDELINES – POLICY NO. 2190 Effective: August 2012
Catholic schools are dedicated to a caring and orderly environment where students are provided safety in a community of faith. Sports and physical activity are a great way for children and teens to stay healthy and grow in virtue. Medical researchers have discovered that young athletes, especially children and teens, don't often recognize their own limitations; especially when they have a concussion.
A) This policy, based on the Colorado Jake Snakenberg Youth Concussion Act, applies to organized athletic activities for each public and private middle school and high school. It requires each coach of a youth athletic activity that involves interscholastic play to complete an annual concussion recognition education course.
B) The principal must ensure that all coaches complete the on‐line concussion training course approved by the Office of Catholic Schools prior to assuming any coaching duties. The Office of Catholic Schools will provide the principal with the name and link of the approved training course.
C) The Office of Catholic Schools recommends that all teachers and supervisors complete this course.
D) A concussion is a of traumatic brain injury‐or TEI ‐caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. It is a disruption of how the brain works; it is not a bruise to the brain.
E) While most with a concussion recover quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days,
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or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer. Not giving the brain enough recovery time can be dangerous.
F) Concussion signs or symptoms include change in the person's behavior, thinking, or physical functioning (Appendix ZZ, Heads Up Concussion‐Signs and Symptoms).
G) The following steps provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are REQUIRED to be taken by the coach or supervisor whenever an athlete has experienced a bump or blow to the head or body and evidences any of the symptoms or signs of a concussion.
1) Remove the athlete from play immediately.
2) Inform the athlete's parents or guardians about the possible concussion. Give them the CDC fact sheet on concussion for parents (Appendix AAA, Heads Up Concussion‐Fact Sheet for Parents).
3) Ensure that the athlete is evaluated by a health care professional,
• "Health Care Professional" means a Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, licensed nurse practitioner, licensed physician assistant, or licensed Doctor of Psychology with training in neuropsychology or concussion evaluation and management.
4) Keep the athlete out of play and practice the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, states in writing that the athlete can safely return. The arrangements and cost of the health care provider are the responsibility of the parent.
H) After a concussed athlete has been evaluated and received clearance to return to play from a health care provider, school officials may allow a registered athletic trainer/coach/athletic director with specific knowledge of the athlete's condition to manage the athlete's GRADUATED RETURN to play (Appendix BBB, Gradual Return to Play).
I) Parents are required to sign that they have read, understand, and will comply with the Concussion Policy before the child can practice or play.
STEPHEN COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Any student, teacher or other staff member having a communicable disease will be dealt with on a case by case basis in accord with the guidelines for that disease issued by State and Local Health Departments, as well as the Center for Disease Control. In cases where the disease is extremely serious and/or wide‐spread, the Department of Catholic Schools, parents of the child(ren) involved and the physician(s) of the child(ren) should be consulted.
In all cases, due consideration will be given to the needs and well‐being of the individual(s) involved, those with whom they have contact and the broader school/parish community being served. In cases where a lengthy absence from school is necessitated, alternative programs of students will be examined.
DOCTOR AND DENTIST APPOINTMENTS Students are expected to make every effort to schedule doctor and dentist appointments outside of school hours. However, when this is not possible, students will be excused for these special appointments.
FEVER Students should be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. Students who are sent home during the school day with a fever will not be allowed to return to school the next day as this would not allow for 24-hour protection of the entire school community.
FOOD ALLERGY GUIDELINES St. Stephen Catholic School is aware of students with severe food allergies that can be life threatening. Because it is the school's duty to provide a safe learning environment, we are asking that certain classrooms be food allergy safe rooms. We also will be providing a food allergy safe table to sit at during lunch. If your child has a lunch free of food allergy items, such as, but not limited to: dairy, eggs, and nuts, they will be able to sit and eat at that table with their friends.
1. All students may have lunches that have possible food allergy items in them and will not be able to sit at the food allergy safe table.
2. If an older student is going to be helping or working with another student, we ask that they wash their hands after eating.
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3. We ask that all students use hand sanitizer prior to using the library or computers or any shared school items. Thank you for your cooperation with helping keep all our children safe. For questions, please contact the school office for additional information.
HEARING SCREENING Children may receive hearing and vision screenings during the school year, depending on the availability of qualified volunteer personnel. Parents will be notified of the results only if there is a suspected deficiency.
ILLNESS OR ACCIDENT In the event of an accident or illness at school the child’s parent or guardian will be contacted and where possible the school will wait for instruction from the parent or guardian before proceeding further. The school will provide treatment to the student limited to immediate first aid that will protect the life of the individual until professional treatment can be secured.
School personnel will not transport seriously injured or ill students unless there is an emergency need to do so. If the parent cannot provide timely transportation, an ambulance will be called. If a child is seriously injured or ill at the end of a school day, the child will not be allowed to go home unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or other parent delegate.
Important: Remember, an emergency telephone number where parents can be reached, and the name and telephone number of the student’s family doctor must be on file in the school.
NOTE: Children are not to return to school after an illness unless they are completely well and can resume the school routine. Requests should not be made for a child to stay in from recess, unless there is written documentation from a medical professional as to having a student not participate in recess. This puts a hardship on limited supervisory capability. Children with a fever of 100.1 or greater are to remain at home and continue so until they are fever free for 24 hours.
MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL During the school year, your student may require prescription medications or over the counter medications. The Office of Catholic Schools requires authorization on file from a parent/guardian and from the Licensed Primary Physician to be able to administer any medications to a student at school or field trips.
The student may carry an EpiPen® or inhaler; if the authorization forms are on file, the Physician states the student may carry the medication, and the student is qualified to self‐administer the medication. Other than those two medications, students may not carry any other prescription or over the counter medications. The school does not provide any over the counter medications for students. Medications that need to be administered at school or at a school event will be given by the school nurse or other trained St. Stephen Catholic School staff who have been authorized to administer medications.
Medication Authorization forms can be found at the end of the handbook, as well as on the school website. There are two medical forms needed. The Parent Authorization Form is required and should list all medications the student will be taking. The second form is for the Physician to complete. The Physician needs to fill out a form for EACH medication the student will be using. The Physician needs to date the form to cover the entire school year.
The Medication Authorization Forms must be submitted to the school office at the beginning of each school year.
A parent is required to bring in any medication. All medications should be in their original pharmacy bottle or manufactures packaging and place in a zip lock bag. It should be clearly marked (printed) with:
1. Students name 2. Name of medication 3. Proper dosage 4. Purpose of medication 5. Time of day/circumstances in which medication is to be administered 6. Anticipated number of days the medication must be administered 7. Possible side effects 8. Storage instructions.
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Please note – medications of any kind cannot and will not be administered if the Medication Authorization Forms are not on file.
PEDICULOSIS (LICE) This condition is found wherever large groups gather and can be picked up in any place upon contact with a person having such a condition. This is no reflection in any way upon a person’s personal hygiene or cleanliness.
Some Preventive Hints:
1. Students are not to lend their comb or brush to anyone. Have your child leave his or her comb and brush at home.
2. Keep hats, gloves, scarves, and so forth in their book bags and not in the coat closets.
3. Periodically check and launder your child’s coat, particularly those having pile or fur‐lined collars and/or hoods.
4. Advise your child not to try on other children’s hats or coats.
5. If you purchase or receive new clothing for your child, wash it before they wear it.
To control the spread of Pediculosis, children should be kept out of school for 24 hours after the administration of their first treatment with Kwell or a similar shampoo.
REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND/OR NEGLECT Colorado statute 19‐10‐102 to 115 requires the reporting by school personnel of suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to the appropriate county department or local law enforcement agency. (Please refer to Archdiocese Policy No. 2200 for additional information.)
LETTER STATING THE SCHOOL’S ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN
TO: PARENTS, STAFF, BUSINESS OFFICE, PARTIES USING ST. STEPHEN SCHOOL FR: GLENDA OLIVER, PRINCIPAL/DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL DT: JUNE 18, 2015 RE: ANNUAL ASBESTOS REINSPECTION
Annual asbestos inspection law requires all public and private not‐for‐profit school; Pre‐K‐12 to be inspected routinely by EPA accredited inspectors on a regular basis. The law also requires that each school have a file and asbestos management plan on file. Our file is located in the office of the principal with back up information filed with our church maintenance employee and asbestos management representative.
The law requires that at least once each year, the school shall notify, in writing, every parent, teacher, employee and employee organization of the availability of the Asbestos Management Plan. As a matter of compliance, we are following the recommendation to place the compliance information in our faculty and parent‐student handbooks.
Re‐inspection for asbestos has taken place on routine and unannounced visits. The Asbestos Management file of the principal is open to parents and other interested parties and is current and up to date as of June 18, 2015.
UNIFORM CODE AND POLICY
All students are expected to be neat, well groomed, and in appropriate uniform dress at all times. Students are expected to come to school every day dressed in dress code.
Recommended uniform company: Other acceptable uniform companies:
Land’s End School Uniforms Preferred School # 9000‐5526‐0 Phone: 1‐800‐469‐2222
Fax: 1‐800‐332‐0103 Website: www.landsend.com/school
All Schools Uniforms
7230 W. 38th
Avenue Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Phone: 303‐424‐1972 Fax: 303‐424‐1972
Dennis Uniform Company School Code: CDC 8600 Park Meadows Drive Lone Tree, CO 80124 Phone: 303‐738‐2255 (800‐854‐6951) Fax: 303‐738‐5799 (877‐291‐5480) Website: www.dennisuniform.com
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UNIFORM GUIDELINES The following guidelines must be followed when wearing the uniform for school functions.
Uniforms must be worn clean and neat at all times.
Shirts must be tucked into pants, shorts, skirts or skorts.
Only uniform approved spirit sweatshirts (see policy details) or fleece jackets, can be worn as a layer with the uniform for school or any school functions. Sweatshirts and other spirit wear can be purchased through the school during the announced ordering times. Spirit sweatshirts may be worn during children’s Mass, however, if you are a worship leader or altar server, then you must remove the sweatshirt during Mass.
Uniform approved shoes and socks are to be worn at all times inside the school building.
Layering a short sleeve shirt over a long sleeve shirt, is NOT permitted.
Snow boots are not to be worn in the building as school day wear. They are only allowed for outside activities.
Boys cannot wear earrings. See specific grade pages for additional details on jewelry.
Girls may wear one pair of small post earrings. Dangling or large hoop earrings are not allowed. Absolutely no upper ear, lip or nose piercings.
Extreme hairstyles for boys and girls are not permitted. Hairstyles must be reasonable and appropriate. Boys’ haircuts must be cut to the collar or shorter. Boys who wish to grow their hair long for Locks of Love or another charity organization are asked to find another way to give. Only natural hair color for both boys and girls is permitted at all times.
NO make‐up of any kind is allowed. No foundation is allowed, unless it is medicated for acne, along with a parental note. NO nail polish is allowed at any time.
All hats are to be removed when inside the building.
Jeans, bell‐bottom pants, low‐rise pants, flare leg pants, cargo pants, corduroy, stretch, stir‐up, leggings (like tights with no feet), and sweat pants are not allowed as part of the school uniform.
Throughout the year, we will have special occasions when the students may wear dress clothing; students are to comply with the dress code guidelines for those days. Students not complying with the dress guidelines are required to wear the approved school uniform. A dress code for such days is included on the next page.
Casual clothes are allowed on certain field trips and on field day. Notifications of these days will be in the weekly school newsletter or classroom notifications. Please follow your teachers dress code instructions for such days.
Occasionally there are dress down days when the uniform does not need to be worn; however, we must abide by the uniform guidelines to the length of shorts, skirts and heels. Miniskirts or short shorts will not be acceptable on dress down days. A dress code for such days is included on the next page.
These guidelines will be strictly enforced and are expected to be followed at home. If there are any questionable issues regarding the uniform code, the Principal and staff will make the final decision about its appropriateness. All of the guidelines are set for the safety of your child(ren) and are intended to create uniformity among the students.
All uniform regulations and guidelines are subject to the discretion of the Principal and staff.
Good Rule: If you think you shouldn’t wear it, you shouldn’t
SPIRIT WEAR DAYS The last school Friday of each month is Eagle Spirit Day. On this day your child(ren) are allowed to wear jeans and their spirit wear, as their school uniform. This day is clearly stated on the monthly calendar and in the newsletter. Neat and appropriate attire should be respected with this uniform guideline. This day is a privilege and should be treated as such.
Unless otherwise stated below, the uniform guidelines must be followed for all other apparel items.
Students may wear:
Jeans – no holes or skinny jeans
Shirt – Spirit shirt or any field day t‐shirt that has not been modified or an everyday uniform shirt Sweatshirt – Spirit sweatshirt only
JERSEY/SCOUT DAYS Every Friday of the month students who are involved in scouts or sports may wear their scout jersey, sash or the athletic shirt from their current sport that has not been modified, with their school uniform bottoms.
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DRESS DOWN DAYS There are certain days in which students are allowed to be out of uniform or have a dress down day. When time permits, these days will be publicized in the weekly newsletter. In other instances, the students may only receive an all‐school notification via the classroom intercom system. The following guidelines should be followed when participating in the out of uniform or dress down day, unless other specific guidelines have been stated for a particular day (i.e. St. Patrick’s Day – students may be able to wear a green shirt with their uniform bottoms).
Students may wear:
o Jeans – no holes or skinny jeans or cutoff jeans o Tennis Shoes o Shorts – no shorter than three inches above the knee o Skirts – no shorter than three inches above the knee o Skorts – no shorter than three inches above the knee o Sweatshirts – no oversized, torn, or sweatshirts that have inappropriate logos, emblems or
embroidery o Jogging suits o Yoga pants o Jewelry – as long as it is not inappropriate or extreme o Dresses – no shorter than three inches above the knee o Slacks – no holes o Sandals
Student may NOT wear:
o Flip‐flop sandals o No open back shoes o Tank tops – unless you have a sweater to wear over it at all times o T‐shirts with inappropriate writing or graphics o Tennis shoes that convert to roller skates o Biker shorts o Pajama pants o Make‐up o Nail Polish o Low cut blouses or tops o Clothing that is extremely tight o Hats o No extreme hair styles or hair coloring
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GIRLS UNIFORM CODE – KINDERGARTEN
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BOYS UNIFORM CODE – KINDERGARTEN
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GIRLS UNIFORM CODE – GRADES 1 THROUGH 5
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BOYS UNIFORM CODE – GRADES 1 THROUGH 5
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GIRLS UNIFORM CODE – GRADES 6 THROUGH 7
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BOYS UNIFORM CODE – GRADES 6 THROUGH 7
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GIRLS UNIFORM CODE – GRADE 8
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BOYS UNIFORM CODE – GRADE 8
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LEADERSHIP UNIFORM CODE
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APPENDIX
APPENDIX A ‐ FIELD TRIP PERMISSION FORM (SCHOOL TO PARENT)
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APPENDIX B ‐ MEDICAL RELEASE FORM
PUPIL PERSONNEL SERVICES PARENTS’ REQUEST FOR GIVING MEDICINE AT SCHOOL RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
The undersigned parent(s) (or guardian) of
(Child’s Name)
hereby request the St. Stephen Catholic School nurse and his/her designee employed by St. Stephen Catholic School in the County of Garfield and State of Colorado to see that said child receives the following Medicine(s):
(Medicine)
(Medicine)
for the period from to at
(date) (date) (time)
It is understood and agreed that this medication will be furnished by the parent(s) (or guardian) and that said medication shall be given to said child purely at the request of and as an accommodation to the undersigned parent(s) (or guardian). In consideration of the acceptance of the request to perform this service of accommodation by the principle or his/her designee, the undersigned parent(s) (or guardian) hereby release(s) the said school, principal, or his/her designee of any and all claims, demands or causes of action which they may now have, or may hereafter have, arising out of or in connection with the giving, administering, or failing to give or administer any of the said medicine(s) to said child or any other medication given to said child. Also, in consideration of the acceptance of the request to perform this service of accommodation, the parent(s) (or guardian) further agree to indemnify and hold harmless the said School from any claim, demand or cause of action of said child arising out of or in connection with the giving, administration of or failure to give or administer any of said medicine(s) or other medication to said child.
The signature of the undersigned physician or dentist constitutes his/her authorization to the giving or administration of said medicine(s) at said dates and time to said child.
Physician or Dentist Date Parent or Guardian Date
St. Stephen Catholic School Date Parent or Guardian Date
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APPENDIX C ‐ STUDENT AGREEMENT & PARENT PERMISSION FORM FOR ELECTRONIC MEDIA
STUDENT COMPUTER AND INTERNET CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY Telecommunications Use Agreement
As a computer user, I agree to follow the rules and code of ethics in all of my work with computers while attending St. Stephen
Catholic School.
1. I recognize that all computer users have the same right to use the equipment; therefore, I will not use the computer resources
for non-academic purposes. I will not waste or take supplies such a paper, printer cartridges, ad discs that are provided by the
school. When I am using an electronic device, I will keep my work area clean and free of food and liquids.
2. I recognize that software is protected by copyright laws; therefore, I will not make unauthorized copies of software and I will
not give, lend, or sell copies of software to others. I understand that I will not be allowed to bring software applications,
games, or CD-ROMs from home to be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate
school personnel.
3. I recognize that the work of all users is valuable; therefore, I will protect the privacy of others by not trying to learn their
password(s); I will not copy, change, read, or use files from another user without prior permission from that user; I will not
attempt to gin unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment; I will not use computer systems to disturb or
harass other computer users or use inappropriate language in my communications.
4. I will honor my school’s procedures for the storage of information. I realize that after prior notice has been given to me, files
may be deleted from the system to protect the integrity of the network or because of space limitation on the computer’s hard
drive.
5. Each student who received Internet access will be instructed in the proper use of the network. The use of the internet must be
in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of the school. Students using network or
computing resources must comply with the appropriate rules for that network or resource.
6. As a user of a network, I will not use bulletin boards nor chat lines for personal use. In addition, I will not reveal my personal
information, home address, or personal phone number or those of students, teacher, or other staff members. Transmission of
any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted
material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking
resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for the product advertisement or political lobbying is also
prohibited.
7. Parents must realize that their students may encounter material on a network that they do not consider appropriate (vulgar
jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.) The student is responsible for not pursuing material that
could be considered offensive. As stated in the Student Acceptable Use Policy (Electronic Media) as found on page 53 of the
handbook, and that is signed and agreed to by both the student and parents or legal guardians.
8. The use of the computer is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in the cancellation of these privileges.
Vandalism or intentional modification of system settings will result in cancellation of privileges and/or school disciplinary
action. The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The
system administrators will deem what is in appropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff
of the school may request that the system administrator deny, revoke, or suspend specific user privileges. Violation of the
rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.
Signature of Student Printed Name of Student
Grade:
Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Printed Name(s):
Date:
NOTE: The form is to be used in conjunction with the section this handbook titled “Student Acceptable Use Policy”.
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APPENDIX D – SOAR WITH THE EAGLES DISCIPLINE NOTIFICATION SAMPLES
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APPENDIX E ‐ COLORADO’S CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY LAW
It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure that child passengers are properly buckled up in the appropriate restraint on every trip. The child restraint must have a label that states it meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 as set forth in Section 49 C.F.R. 571.213, as amended.
Car Seat Guidelines
Rear Facing Child Restraint Systems – Birth to 12 months
The law requires newborn infants to ride in a rear‐facing child safety seat until they are at least one year old, and the weight is at least 20 pounds.
New guidelines include keeping babies and toddlers in the rear‐facing position in the back seat of the vehicle until at least age 2, or until they reach the maximum weight and height limit set by car seat manufacturer. Rear‐facing position reduces injury to the neck and spinal cord of developing babies during a crash
Forward Facing Child Restraint Systems – 1‐3 years
Once your child outgrows the rear‐facing car seat, he or she is ready to travel in a forward‐facing car seat with a harness.
Once babies turn 1-year‐old and weigh at least 20 pounds, the law gives them the option of using a front‐ facing car seat.
Follow the car seat manufacturer’s recommendations for installation.
Booster Seats – 4‐7 years
Experts recommend that children remain in a forward‐facing car seat as long as the car seat manufacturer’s upper weight limit allows (usually 40‐70 pounds).
Once your child outgrows a car seat, he or she is ready to transition to a booster seat. Children ages 4–7 and less than 4’9” who use booster seats are 45% less likely to be injured in a crash compared children who are restrained only by seat belts.
The law requires that every child under 8 years of age shall be properly restrained in a child restraint system, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most often, this is a booster seat.
Safety Belts – 8‐12 years
Safety experts recommend that kids continue to use a booster seat until they are at least 4’9”, which half of children will not reach until they are about 12 years old.
When a child turns 8, the law allows them to use a vehicle seat belt. Safety experts recommend that all children under 13 should ride in the back seat with lap and shoulder seat belts.
Proper seat belt fit is achieved when the child meets the 5‐Step Test developed by Safety Belt Safe U.S.A.
1. The child can sit all the way back against the auto seat.
2. The child’s knees bend comfortably at the edge of the auto seat.
3. The belt crosses the shoulder between the neck and arm.
4. The lap belt is as low as possible touching the thighs.
5. The child can stay seated like this for the whole trip.
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Other Provisions of Colorado’s Child Restraint Law
The law applies to children being transported in a privately owned noncommercial vehicle and in noncommercial vehicles operated by childcare centers.
Children must be buckled up in the front and back seats on every trip.
The booster seat portion of the law is secondary enforcement, meaning a driver must be stopped and ticketed for another driving offense before they can be ticketed for a violation of the booster seat provision.
The infant, car seat and safety belt provisions of the law are primary enforcement, meaning the driver can be stopped and ticketed if an officer sees an unrestrained or improperly restrained child in the vehicle.
The minimum fine is $82, and the driver can be fined for each unrestrained child in the
vehicle. The booster seat provision the law takes effect with the schedule below:
Exemptions
Children are exempt from the law when:
A child is being transported in a medical emergency.
Children are being transported in a motor vehicle built to commercial standards such as a school bus.
If a child is at least four years of age and is less than 55 inches tall and if the child is being transported in a vehicle equipped with ONLY a two‐point‐lap‐belt system available for the child, the child shall be properly restrained with a lap belt.
NOTE: To ensure children are properly restrained as required in the law, follow the recommendations below:
To determine proper installation, refer to both the owner’s manual of the child restraint system and the owner’s manual of the vehicle.
All child restraint systems must be installed and used according to manufacturer’s instructions
For more information, visit https://www.codot.gov/safety/seatbelts‐carseats/carseats
CPS Team Colorado is administered by the Colorado State Patrol; funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).
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APPENDIX F ‐ MEDIA WAIVER / PARENT CONSENT FORM
MEDIA WAIVER / PARENT CONSENT FORM
Policy #2350
Before the use of name, likeness, whether in still, motion pictures, audio or video tape, photograph and/or other reproduction of a student, including voice and features with or without name of student for any promotional purposes involving the Archdiocese of Denver or parish/school, news or feature stories in any media or other purpose whatsoever, written permission for publication of this information must be secured from parents on an annual basis. This permission shall be kept on file for the length of time the student is at the school.
In the interest of promoting the successful programs of St. Stephen Catholic School and improving outside communications, we may utilize photographs and video footage of students in our school for presentations or publications, on our website and on Facebook. This agreement constitutes permission to use photographs and video of the student named below in presentations about our school, programs, and people which may be distributed by St. Stephen Catholic School and/or the Office of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Denver. All photographs and video footage shall remain the sole property of St. Stephen Catholic School and the Archdiocese of Denver. I understand that no compensation will be made to me or my student for use. Mark all options that apply for either giving permission or not for St. Stephen Catholic School and/or the Archdiocese of Denver to use photographs and/or video footage of my child for information and possible distribution about its school, programs and people.
Yes – Newsletter and Website
No – Newsletter and Website
Yes – Sycamore Education Site (only current school families have access to this web‐based program)
No – Sycamore Education Site
Yes – Facebook (upon use of pictures, we will not tag any student names in pictures used on Facebook)
No – Facebook
Yes – Advertising materials, including but not limited to brochures, newspaper ads and flyers
No – Advertising materials, including but not limited to brochures, newspaper ads and flyers
Electronic / Print Media
Due to interest in Catholic education, print and electronic media sometimes will request to visit our school for stories about programs and current events. In accordance with such activities, school policy requires parental approval be obtained before the media may take close‐up pictures of students or use a student’s photo in non‐school publications.
Please indicate by checking the appropriate box whether you will allow your child to be interviewed and/or photographed by the print and/or electronic media.
Yes, I give my permission for the media to interview and/or photograph my child.
No, I do not want my child interviewed or photographed by the media.
I ACKNOWLEDGE BY MY SIGNATURE BELOW THAT I UNDERSTAND THE ABOVE‐STATED INFORMATION.
Student Name Grade
Signature of Father or Guardian
Signature of Mother or Guardian
St. Stephen Catholic School | 414 S. Hyland Park Dr. | Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 | Phone 970.945.7746
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APPENDIX G ‐ SSCS VIRTUES IN PRACTICE SAMPLE FORM Date ____________
VIRTUES IN PRACTICE Virtue(s) of __ Respect - Recognizing the dignity of all people (St. Jeanne Jugan) __ Responsibility- Being reliable in your duties and accountable for your actions (St. Peter) __ Courtesy- Being thoughtful of others (St. Martin de Porres) __ Obedience- Saying “yes” to the loving will of God and those He has set over us (Our Lady)
__Other________________________________________________________________________________ Today I, _____________________, failed to practice the virtue that God wants me to follow. I need to grow in this virtue and I ask for help in becoming more like the saints to follow God’s will.
1. This is what I did (additional space in back)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
2. Next time, I should try to be more like Saint______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
3. To bring balance back in my relationship with ___________________I will _____________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature_______________________ Adult Signature___________________________
Parent Signature ________________________Date _____________
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HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT
Such a handbook is essential in providing for the common good of all and in creating a healthy, family atmosphere where each community member can strive to reach his or her fullest potential spiritually, academically and socially.
Our signatures below indicate acknowledgement that we have received the St. Stephen Catholic School Handbook, have read the handbook, and agree to abide by the rules, procedures and policies found therein. We understand that we do not have to like or agree with the contents of this handbook nor with the school administration’s
interpretations of its contents as they pertain to us. However, in freely choosing to enroll in St. Stephen Catholic School, we agree to support, cooperate with, and abide by the rules, procedures and policies of St. Stephen Catholic School; of its Handbook; and of the school administration’s interpretations of the Handbooks content and school rules, regulations, and policies.
FAILURE TO SIGN AND RETURN THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT EXEMPT OR EXCLUDE THE STUDENT AND/OR THE PARENTS/GUARDIANS FROM KNOWING AND ABIDING BY THE RULES, PROCEDURES AND POLICIES OF THE SCHOOL.
Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Printed Name(s):
Signature of SSCS Student(s)‐grades 3rd‐8th: Printed Name(s):
THIS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM MUST BE SIGNED
BY ALL PARENT(S) and
STUDENT(S) IN GRADES 3‐8.
PLEASE RETURN TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 30, 2018.
St. Stephen Catholic School | 414 S. Hyland Park Dr. | Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 | Phone 970.945.7746
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