STC Handbook

SOUTHTOWNS CATHOLIC HANDBOOK

Parent~Student Handbook

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ORGANIZATION

Southtowns Catholic School (established in 1983) is a consolidated PreK-8 school supported by Our Lady of Perpetual Help and St. Vincent de Paul Parishes, family tuition payments and an established endowment. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church is situated in Lake View, the southerly portion of the Town of Hamburg whereas St. Vincent de Paul Church is located in North Evans, the northerly portion of the Town of Evans, both townships being in the County of Erie, State of New York. The parishes are separated by the Eighteen Mile Creek, which meanders at the bottom of a gorge and provides a natural geographic barrier. The merger of two existing schools provides the Southtowns Catholic School community with a complete Catholic Educational program commencing in Preschool and concluding in the Eighth Grade. Dedicated professionals including a principal, an assistant principal, classroom teachers and ancillary personnel staff Southtowns Catholic School. A number of volunteers assist our teachers in the delivery of religious and academic instruction.

POLICY OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
Southtowns Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, nationality or ethnic origin in the acceptance of students.

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES BUS TRANSPORTATION

The Eden, Frontier, Hamburg, Orchard Park and Lake Shore Central School Districts provide transportation. When students are transported to and from school, care must be taken for their safety. To insure this, the following rules are to be observed:

1.all students will sit in their assigned seats;

2.students are to remain seated at all times;

3.the bus driver is fully in charge of the bus;

4.there is to be no eating or drinking on the bus;

5.students file on and off the bus in a single line;

6.courtesy and proper behavior is to be observed at all times;

7.objects such as hockey sticks, glass jars, toys, soda pop, or other items not necessary for school, are not to be brought on the bus.

NOTE:
Any student violating these rules will be warned and/or disciplined by the principal or supervisor of transportation. Discipline may include the suspension of bus privileges for an indefinite period of time.

EARLY DISMISSAL

Parents will receive notice of these dates on the school calendar as well as reminders on the website. Early release time is 11:30 a.m. unless otherwise specified.

LEAVING SCHOOL

Students are not allowed to leave school during school hours for any reason without the knowledge and consent of their teacher. Students will be released only to designated adults who must sign the appropriate release form. Under no circumstances shall a student be allowed to go home himself or herself. No student shall be released to an unidentified person. Permission from the Principal must be obtained before a student is released.

NOTE:
Parents are not allowed to go to the classroom for their child(ren). They must report to the office and sign them out. The child(ren) will then be called to the office for pick-up.

EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM

Southtowns Catholic School provides an After School Program for its students as a convenience to parents. The program is available from dismissal time and continues to 6:00 pm. Competent, responsible adults supervise recreational activities, study time and snack time. Students whose fees are not paid regularly and/or who are behavioral problems will not be permitted to remain in the After School Program.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

A variety of after school activities are provided at Southtowns Catholic School including but not limited to athletics, student government, roller-skating, bowling, clubs, etc. Information will be sent home prior to the commencement of the activity along with permission slips. Some activities may have a fee associated with them as well. Parents are responsible for student transportation as well as instilling respect for authority of coaches, advisors and supervisors. Students may lose the privilege of participating in these activities if they become academically or behaviorally ineligible.

CAFETERIA
Southtowns Catholic School takes part in the National School Lunch Act. Free and reduced priced lunches are provided according to yearly standards set by STC authorities. All prices for student and adult lunches are fixed in the fall. A juice machine is also available to all students and staff.

CLASSROOM PARTIES

Classroom parties may be held to celebrate holidays such as Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Treats may be brought in for student birthdays after the date and time are cleared with the classroom teacher. It is requested that treats be limited to a healthy snack and/or juice.

EQUIPMENT USAGE

The school utilizes educational, safety and maintenance equipment. Students should not handle equipment unless they have been specifically authorized to do so. When school equipment is damaged through negligence or unauthorized use, the party at fault is held financially responsible.

FIELD TRIPS

Various educational field trips will be planned for students throughout the school year. Permission slips and a letter to parents outlining the details of each trip will be sent home well in advance. Students will not be allowed to participate in field trips unless written permission is on file in the school office. Attendance on a field trip is considered a privilege. A fee is often charged to help defray costs of transportation and/or admission.

UNAUTHORIZED ARTICLES

In general, students should not bring personal possessions, toys or unusual items to school unless they are intended for a specific purpose in the classroom and then with permission of the teacher. Animals are not permitted in school without permission from the office.

*NO I-PODS, GAME BOY’S, OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES or CELL PHONES ALLOWED.

VALUABLES

The school administration and staff cannot be responsible for valuables that students bring to school. It is recommended that students leave all valuable items at home. This includes electronic equipment. If special circumstances make it necessary for a student to bring substantial cash or other important possessions to school, registering them and leaving them at the school office can safeguard these items.

LOCKERS

Lockers will be assigned to 6th, 7th and 8th graders. They are the property of the school and remain under the control of school authorities. Combination locks must be purchased from the school office. A master key will be retained in the principal’s office. Unauthorized locks will be removed. Lockers must be locked at all times. The school can take no responsibility for articles stolen from lockers. There may be periodic locker checks with or without notice. As a result, students should not expect privacy regarding items placed in the locker. No items such as pictures, posters, etc. will be permitted to be placed in a locker unless approved by the school administration.

LOITERING

Students should leave the school building and grounds promptly after classes and activities are concluded. They may not re-enter the school once they have been dismissed unless they have faculty or administrative permission. Non-students are not permitted at any time unless they have registered in the office as an official visitor.

LOST AND FOUND

All clothing found in the school, regardless of its value, is placed in the lost and found box in the clinic. Students may claim lost items after proper identification. All unclaimed lost and found items are disposed of at the end of the school year. Students’ articles should be labeled with their names so they can be returned to them immediately.

TELEPHONE

The telephone may be used by students for an emergency or cancellation. A Pay Phone is available for student use. Students should carry a quarter for this purpose. Students are not allowed to use the phone to make personal arrangements, such as requesting permission to go to another student’s home after school, forgotten homework, gym clothes etc.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are furnished by the Public School Districts and are on loan. STC also purchases textbooks with tuition money. Parents fill out a request form for books at the initial registration of their child.

NOTE: Lost or damaged books must be replaced by the borrower.

VOLUNTEERS

At the start of each school year, we request volunteer help from parents and other adults of the parish to assist with various activities of the school. If you can assist, even for a few hours a month, you will help to improve the services of the school and deepen your awareness of the parental role in the formal education of your children. Whatever your expertise, we can find a way to make use of it for the good of our students.

VISITORS

All visitors must sign in at the school office and obtain a “Visitor’s Pass”.

ADMISSION

Students entering the Three Year Old Preschool program must be three (3) years old by December 1 of the school year. Students entering the Four Year Old Preschool program must be four (4) years old by December 1 of the school year. Students entering Kindergarten must be five (5) years old by December 1 of the school year. Parents of all admitted students must present:

1. a birth certificate
2. a baptismal certificate
3. a record of immunization
4. a non-refundable registration fee

Transfer Deadline:
Students will be admitted to classes provided they are not at capacity until October 1st of the school year. If a family moves into the area after the deadline, it’s application will be reviewed.

ADMISSION/REGISTRATION POLICY

1.The following policy has been instituted to establish maximum class sizes at STC:

a. The Pre-K program will set a maximum class size of 15 students for both the morning and afternoon three-year old classes and 21 students for each of the four-year old classes.

b. Grades K-8 will set a maximum class size of 25 students. Upon review, the principal in consultation with the School Board may determine if a class size would increase.

2.The Southtowns Catholic School Board has established the following policy to help prioritize new students entering Southtowns Catholic School:

a. Those students who have older siblings attending Southtowns Catholic or who are siblings of Southtowns Catholic alumni.

b. Parishioners who are attending Southtowns Catholic Pre-K.

c. Parishioners of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and St. Vincent de Paul parishes, with preference to length of affiliation.

d. Students attending Southtowns Catholic Pre-School who are not affiliated with one of the parishes.

e. All others.

NOTE:

A waiting list will be established when a grade reaches its maximum enrollment. After open registration, vacancies will be filled on an earliest to register basis. Everyone is considered registered at the time of receipt of all necessary forms and registration fees. The criteria above will be used to fill any vacancies during open registration. The registration fee is non-refundable unless we are unable to accommodate the student in a specific grade.

WITHDRAWALS

Parents of students who will be withdrawing in the middle of a semester should contact the school office as soon as possible. Teachers and staff will summarize the student’s progress and prepare the student’s file for forwarding to the next school of enrollment.

In the event of withdrawal from school within the first semester, and tuition has been paid in advance, a pro-rated refund of tuition will be made for the amount covering the second semester. If withdrawal occurs during the second semester, no refunds will be made.

RELEASE OF RECORDS

The school will maintain records of all students. Information included in these records may not be released without written parental consent. Upon request, a transcript of student records will be forwarded to another school when a student transfers.

ATTENDANCE

Southtowns Catholic School has developed its attendance policy in accordance with New York State Education Law 3205. This policy will ensure sufficient pupil attendance at all scheduled periods of actual instruction or supervised student activities. Schools within the Diocese of Buffalo believe that student attendance increases student success. In order for each student to develop their personal talents, pursue academic quality, foster responsibility and leadership, we encourage parental support in the educational success of children. Regular attendance at school is essential for student success. Subjects are taught in sequence and require the understanding of each concept in the order of its presentation. Therefore, students who miss thirty (30) days of school, and have not met periodically with school administration, are in jeopardy of retention. At a conference with the school administration and teachers, alternative educational plans will be determined. It is the parent’s responsibility to notify school administration of an attendance concern and to request such a conference.

Sanctions:

*Regular attendance determines participation in special occasion days or events

*Regular attendance determines promotion

*Excessive irregular attendance warrants notification to the proper authorities

Policy of Notification of Student Absence:
1. Parents must notify the school of absence and/or tardiness before 9 AM.
2. The school will call parents if no call is received.
3. Students who are tardy must report to the office and the parent or guardian must sign the student in.
4. A written excuse must be completed by the parent giving specific reason for absence/tardiness upon return to school.
5. If a written excuse is not received within three (3) days, the absence is recorded as unexcused.
6. Unexcused absence or tardiness is recorded in the school register of attendance.
7. A note must be submitted to the school when a student is going to be released early. Parent or guardian must come to the school office and sign the student out before they can be released.
8. A parent or guardian must sign-in a student upon returning to school after an appointment.Special Notes:If prolonged absence due to illness is anticipated, the parent(s) should contact the School Office. In consideration of the teacher’s time, requests for class work or homework due to prolonged illness should be made in the early morning. Please check the website for homework on the “Teacher’s Link”.Teachers are not required to provide work for students who will be absent from school due to family vacations. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements for missed homework, quizzes, projects, tests, etc. with the teacher(s) on the day the student returns to class.

TARDINESS
A student is considered tardy if he/she is not in the classroom at the opening start of school, at 8:10 AM. Any student arriving after 9 AM, without a bona fide excuse will not be allowed to participate in a sport that day.

Any student coming in late because of bus transportation is not recorded as tardy.

**If a student has a recorded as “tardy”, they are not eligible for “Perfect Attendance” Award.

COMMUNICATION & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

COMMUNICATION

Communication is a key factor in the success of a school. Southtowns Catholic School has established a website, www.southtownscatholic.org, for parents and students. If parents do not have access to the Internet a Communication Envelope will be distributed with important information regarding upcoming school and Home School Association events, early dismissal dates, changes in programs and dates, policies and procedures and order form deadlines. To ensure that a family has received this information, it is important to remove the contents of the envelope as soon as possible after it arrives. We then ask that you read the contents and sign and return the envelope with your child the next day. If your family envelope is not returned before the following Thursday, a $1.00 replacement fee will be charged and a new envelope issued.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER
It is very important that the school office maintain an up-to-date address record at the school office. The school should be notified immediately when there is a change of the student’s address and phone number.

EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES & CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL
From time to time it is necessary to cancel school because of extreme weather conditions, equipment or power failure or other emergency reasons. The administration is aware of the hardship caused by an abrupt cancellation. School will not be canceled unless a significant safety risk has been created by unusual circumstances. Southtowns Catholic School will be closed if either the Frontier Central or Lake Shore Central School District is closed. Every practical means is used to notify parents of a cancellation, including radio, school website, and television. In the unusual event that school must be closed during the school day, the administration will determine that all students have satisfactory transportation and supervision at their homes before releasing them from school. Parents are required to designate an alternate destination for their child(ren) in the event no one would be home.

NOTE:
When school is closed because of an emergency or inclement weather there will be no after school activities.*The alternate destination should be indicated on the Emergency Information Form.

EMERGENCY DRILLS
Fire drills are conducted according to New York State Education Law. Detailed escape plans are posted inside each classroom. For fire drills, each class has an escape route to an outside area at a safe distance from the building. Safe, quiet and orderly behavior is expected when students are executing an emergency drill. A detailed emergency preparedness plan is available in the school office. The school is prepared for a variety of emergency situations including bomb threats, hold in place, lock downs and emergency evacuation but is continually working with police and fire officials to improve drills. The school will follow Homeland Security warnings and procedures. In the event police are called to the school, everyone must follow their directions.

HEALTH REGULATIONS

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Good health is conducive to the happiness of the individual. Therefore, it is important to teach children to conserve and improve their health and to establish the habits and principles of healthy living. Proper nutrition, rest, sleep, exercise and cleanliness are all necessary for a healthy day. If your child has acquired a contagious disease, please notify the school at once. We will then notify the parents in the respective classrooms. Your child will be readmitted upon doctor’s authorization. Students who require medication during the day must present a dated and signed permission form from the parent and doctor. Parents/guardian should bring the medication(s) to school. A health professional will administer medication including inhalers, nasal spray, etc. in the school health office. Medication must be in its original container.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

In case of emergency, each student is required to have the following information on file in the school office:
- Parent(s) or Guardian(s) Name(s)
- Complete and Up-to-Date Address
- Home Telephone and Parent(s) work Telephone Numbers
- Emergency Telephone Number of the nearest Friend/Relative
- Physician’s Name and Telephone Number
- Medical Alert Information (Confidential)
- Alternate Destination in case of early release for an emergency or cancellation of school.

ILLNESS OR INJURY

In the event of illness or injury, the school nurse or a member of the school staff will care for a student temporarily. If emergency medical treatment is necessary, the parents will be contacted. If no one can be reached including the emergency telephone numbers on file in the office, the student will be taken to the Emergency Room/Hospital.

NOTE:
This is one of the important reasons emergency telephone numbers must be on file.

DOCTOR AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS

If a child has to be released for a doctor or dental appointment, a note must be sent the day prior to or the morning of the appointment to the teacher stating the time, the doctor’s name and who will pick up the child at the office. Parents are expected to make every effort to schedule doctor and dental appointments outside of school hours. When this is not possible, students will be excused for these special appointments.

INSURANCE
Student accident/sports insurance is provided through the generosity of the Home School Association.

CHILD ABUSE

All situations of children in need of protection because of suspected child abuse and maltreatment will be reported to the New York Child Abuse and Maltreatment Register.

The Diocese of Buffalo, Education Law and the Social Services Law of New York State clearly and forcefully mandate such reporting. The statute refers to “reasonable suspicion” of child abuse; therefore, any suspicion must be reported by the Principal to the State Central Registry according to Diocesan guidelines. Our teachers and staff are certified mandated reporters.

The Diocese of Buffalo has instituted “The Safe Environment Program” which includes a Code of Conduct for all adults who work with youth on a regular basis. All adults who work with your child(ren) must abide by and sign the Code of Conduct.

In August 2003, the Western New York Catholic will publish the new Policy Relating to Child Abuse and Sexual Abuse of a Child. The policy is also available on the diocesan website (www.buffalodiocese.org).

LEAD POISONING PREVENTION ACT
Under the new Lead Poisoning Prevention Act all parents enrolling preschool or Kindergarten children must provide proof that the children have been screened for lead. Parents must submit a copy of this report to the School Health Office. If a child has not been tested and parents refuse to have the lead screening performed, it will be necessary for them to sign a release indicating their refusal. Forms are available in the School Office.

AHERA

AHERA regulations require STC to remind parents and staff annually that it has an Asbestos Management Plan on file in the Principal’s Office and that it is available upon request to be reviewed. STC is in full compliance with all government guidelines.

PESTICIDES

Although Southtowns Catholic School has never had to apply pesticides in the school building, New York State Education Law Section 409-H, requires all public and non-public schools to provide written notification to all persons in a parental relation, faculty and staff regarding the potential use of pesticides throughout the school year. Southtowns Catholic School is required to maintain a list of persons who wish to receive 48-hour prior written notification of certain pesticide applications.

LEGAL ISSUES

In situations where a child is living in a family where there is a custodial/non-custodial issue, the school needs very clear communications regarding the following:
1. Who has Primary Custodial Rights?
2. Who is allowed to pick up the child(ren)?
3. What are the non/custodial parental rights regarding contact with the child during school
time?
4. When is the child(ren) with the non-custodial parent?

A copy of the section of the separation/divorce papers relating to custody of the child (ren) must be on file in the Principal’s Office. Unless there is a court-order restriction, the following information will be available to the non-custodial parent:

1. Copy of the child(ren)’s report card(s);
2. Copy of standardized testing results;
3. Issue of Monthly Calendar/Newsletter;
4. Notification of annual parent/teacher conference.

Note: The Family Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley Amendment) grant the above information.

TUITION POLICY

The School Board will establish tuition rates for each school year. These rates will be approved and communicated to all existing and prospective parents. The Finance Committee will recommend tuition rates to the Board based upon analysis of past history, projected expenses, student populations, etc. This recommendation will be made by January 15th. Parents will be notified of this policy at the time of registration.

The following payment options are available:

1. Tuition may be paid in full. A $30 discount is applied.

2. FACTS Management Company – tuition is collected and managed by FACTS. Tuition is collected in May, July and August for the next school year and is deducted electronically from the bank and account of choice.

Information may be obtained from the School Office.

*There will be a $25.00 returned payment fee. Three attempts will be made to collect payments.

PROCEDURE FOR DELINQUENT TUITION PAYMENTS

As specified in the FACTS Management Agreement Policy.

TUITION ASSISTANCE

The Southtowns Catholic Tuition Assistance Program is intended to provide financial assistance to families who desire a Southtowns Catholic Education but require assistance to do so. The Tuition Assistance Program is funded by past contributions and an endowment fund.

ASSUMPTIONS

1. Each family must pay some amount per month toward the education of their children.

2. Tuition assistance is not given for volunteer work performed at the school. An application must be completed and guidelines followed.

3. Awarded assistance will be applied to the current tuition account on a monthlybasis and must be matched by a tuition payment.

4. Tuition Assistance applications and awards are kept confidential. Presently,the application and a copy of the award are filed with the Principal and a copy of the award letter is filed with the Finance Committee.

Note: Applications may be obtained from the School Office.

CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY TUITION AID PROGRAM
Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo

Information will be available at the School Office or by contacting the : Catholic Elementary School Tuition Aid Program (CTAP) at P.O. Box219, Buffalo, NY 14205-0219.

RELIGIOUS DIMENSION

“Be it know to all that Christ is the reason for this school. He is the unseen but ever present teacher in its classes. He is the model of its faculty and the inspiration of its students”.
(Author Unknown)

The educational mission of the Catholic Church is clearly described by the American Bishops in their pastoral, To Teach as Jesus Did. This mission embraces a ministry, which integrates:

Proclaiming the MESSAGE of Jesus and the teaching of the Catholic Church;
Creating an environment and opportunities for building COMMUNITY;
Providing a variety of meaningful WORSHIP and liturgical experiences; and
Proclaiming the Church’s social teaching in all areas of catechesis and providing opportunities to give SERVICE, linking faith with action.

Catholic school educators are a very important resource of the Church in introducing students to a life of faith. Their role in this dimension of their ministry contributes greatly to the spiritual growth of our students.

Southtowns Catholic School follows the directives and guidelines set forth by the Diocese of Buffalo, Department of Catholic Education.

Southtowns Catholic School implements the Religion Curriculum developed by the Department of Catholic Education in 2000. The curriculum contains clear expectations for religious education achievement standards as well as specific Catholic doctrine relating to each standard.

The Standards for Religion are:

Read, understand, interpret, and apply Scripture to life.

Rationale:

Scripture, as a vehicle of revelation, enables Catholics to discover truth about God, the world and oneself. As a reflection of the community’s experience of God, Scripture gives meaning to prayer, unites values to knowledge and inspires people to hope.

Illustrate a basic understanding of Catholic dogma and doctrine in the light of the Creed.

Rationale:

Doctrine and dogmas of Catholic faith, as vehicles of revelation, are essential for life within the Catholic community.

Know and participate in the Catholic tradition of prayer.

Rationale:

Prayer is essential to the relationship of the Christian to God and the community. Exposure to diverse expressions of prayer together with traditional Catholic forms of prayer create an openness to God.

Know, critique, and apply social justice principles to personal and societal situations.

Rationale:

Catholics are called to discern discrepancies, where they exist, between social realities and Gospel values, and to develop strategies to make Gospel values operative.

HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

The family is the best environment in which to accomplish a gradual education about human sexuality, which is sensitive to growth and stages of development of each child. Parents can best help their children understand that their human sexuality is a gift from God, with moral, spiritual, psychological, and physical dimensions.

The “facts” of human sexuality need to be seen in the context of God’s call to holiness according to one’s state in life (vocation). Education for holiness starts with an understanding of love, primarily God’s love, which is given to us as a gift. Parents, by their example, can teach their children that love is self-giving and requires self-sacrifice, and that mature love is chaste. The chaste person has self-mastery and is, therefore, able to be self-giving in any state of life.

Human Growth and Development Curriculum Guidelines are included in the Religion Curriculum. Children in Grades 4 through 8 should begin to receive information from their parents about the biological aspects of sex, always integrated into the Christian framework. This biological information will not be covered in the religion classes.

Parents may review the curriculum at any time. Please make an appointment with the principal for this purpose.

Grades 6 through 8 will be participating in the Catholic Charities Program, “Project Truth”, which is an Abstinence Until Marriage Education Program. Project Truth is a nationwide program and has had great success in Catholic elementary schools in our diocese. This program has a positive and significant impact on the development of student’s character and life skills.

LITURGY AND PRAYER SERVICE

Students in grades K-8 attend 9:00 am Mass every Friday and Holydays. The teachers coordinate liturgies and prayer services.

SACRAMENTS OF RECONCILIATION AND HOLY EUCHARIST

Preparation for, and reception of, the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist takes place in the context of the parish community. Parents are the primary educators of their children and are expected to be involved in the process and attend the scheduled meetings.

All Third Graders will have the opportunity to celebrate together as a Communion Class at STC at a School Mass following First Communion.

The pastors of Southtowns Catholic School offer the opportunity for eligible students to receive Reconciliation several times a year.

ACADEMIC AND PROMOTION STANDARDS

TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

The primary responsibility of our teachers is to guide learning experiences both spiritually and academically that are within the capabilities of each student. The following are also some of our teachers’ responsibilities:

1. Respect, safeguard and develop the distinctive character and mission of the School;

2. Continue acquisition of subject matter knowledge and effective techniquesof instruction;

3. Prepare daily professional lessons, including lesson plans for substitutes.

4. Provide a favorable learning environment through effective classroom management;

5. Evaluate and periodically report student evaluation based on subjective and objective observation.

Attend to duties outside the classroom such as attendance at professional meetings, playground assignments and extra curricular sponsorships.

CURRICULUM

Southtowns Catholic’s curriculum standards present these goals:

1. to present high level religious, social, cultural and educational opportunities to our students;

2. to provide innovations that allow for individual differences;

3. to provide training and critical thinking, desirable attitudes, appreciation and interests;

4. to provide opportunities for problem solving through methods of inquiry and evaluation.

Southtowns Catholic enforces the Regents Action Plan and the New Standards for Education of New York State. All curriculum areas and special subjects are provided at STC including: Reading, Creative Writing, Literature, Spelling, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health, Religion, Spanish, Music, Art, Physical Education, Computer Skills, Library Science and instruction for the academically challenged.

Southtowns Catholic follows the curriculum of the Department of Catholic Education of the Diocese of Buffalo. Go to www.buffalodce.org and click on the Curriculum page. You may also access NYS Curriculum at www.nysed.gov.

CLASS SIZE

Maximum class size is 25 students. Upon review, the principal in consultation with the teacher(s) mat determine if class enrollment would increase.

DAILY SCHEDULE

7:30 a.m.	Faculty arrives
7:50 a.m.	Students begin to arrive at homerooms
8:10 a.m	Students arrival time - start of school day
8:20 a.m.	Morning prayer and announcements
10:45 a.m.	Lunch period for grades K-2
11:15 a.m.	Lunch period for grades 3 -5
11:45 a.m.	Lunch period for grades 6-8
2:25 p.m.	Closing prayer and announcements
2:30 p.m.	Student departure
3:00 p.m.	Faculty departure

LEARNING EVALUATION

Students are evaluated in a variety of ways. Class participation, homework, class work, unit test, quizzes, portfolios, projects and final examinations are some of these ways. New York State tests are also given at Grades 3-8 in Math and English Language Arts (ELA), Science in Grades 4 & 8, and Social Studies in Grades 5 & 8.

CONFERENCES

The school shares the responsibility of education with parents. The parent-teacher conference forms an important link in home-school communications. There is an annually scheduled conference for each family with every child’s teacher. It is scheduled on a school day in November and notification of the time and date will be in writing. Other conferences may be held at the request of parents, teachers and/or the Principal. Appointments may be made by calling 627 5011. Better understanding will result through personal contact.

SPECIAL SERVICES

Students in need and who qualify through their achievement test scores will receive Academic Intervention Services in Reading, Writing, Mathematics and Science instruction. STC has a full-time faculty member dedicated to these special needs of students. Speech classes are available for those students who qualify by the norms for speech instruction of the State of New York. Frontier Central provides the services of a speech pathologist and a registered nurse weekly. Psychological testing is also available through all school districts represented in our building.

ACADEMIC INTERVENTION

The New York State Department of Education mandates that all students who fall below the proficiency level on state test be accommodated with an academic intervention.

Southtowns Catholic School is fortunate to have a Resource/Remedial Teacher available for Academic Intervention as well as for assistance to students who need help in Reading and Math.

Beginning September 2007, the administration of Special Services provided by the public school district to non-public schools has changed. The school district in which a non-public school resides is responsible to accommodate students that are classified through the Committee on Special Education.

Frontier Central School District will be the provider for students-in-need at Southtowns Catholic School.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an important part of student’s education and establishes a link between home and school. As such, homework offers parents an opportunity to become involved in the curriculum on a regular basis. Research has indicated that parental involvement in a child’s learning is a key factor in promoting student success.

Homework:
·         Reinforces skills and information learned in class.
·         Teaches a student to develop self-discipline and responsibility.
·         Prepares students for upcoming topics and projects.
·         Teachers will develop an individual class/subject homework policy and procedure for their students.

STUDY SKILLS

A parent can help his/her child be aware of skills and techniques that make learning easier and more enjoyable. The following are student guidelines for achieving good study habits:

1.       Come to class prepared with a pencil, paper and other necessary materials;
2.       Be a good listener and an active participant in class;
3.       Plan your day and schedule time for homework;
4.       Ask questions to clarify any problems you may have;
5.       Use what is learned and apply it to new situations;
6.       Strive to do the very best work possible. Just “getting by” is not a worthwhile goal in any aspect of
       life.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued following completion of each ten-week grading period. Parents should carefully review their child’s progress and contact the school if they have any questions. Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled following the completion of the first grading period. Teachers are available for consultation during their planning periods of after school. Please call the school office to set up an appointment. If a teacher makes a request to confer with a parent during the school year, every effort should be made to schedule an appointment.

1. Quarterly marks are computed from class recitations, written assignments, class tests, unit tests, quizzes, homework and projects;

2. Daily work, especially homework, cannot be underestimated in value.

3. Report cards will be issued as follows:

Kindergarten 3 times a year (January, April, June)
Grades 1 – 8 4 times a year (at the end of each 10-week period)

4. Character trait markings are usually quite indicative of general attitudes andresponses in scholastic areas. We urge parents to note this portion of the card in particular.

5. Since Report Cards are computerized, parents/guardians only need to sign the Report Card Envelope, which must returned to the teacher promptly.

Special Note:
The passing grade for grades three (3) through eight (8) is 70%.

Progress Reports are sent out to parents between marking periods advising parents of student difficulties or special achievement.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

Promotions and retentions are based on an evaluation of academic, physical, social and emotional growth. The primary reasons for considering retention are:

1. Insufficient understanding of the grade-level curriculum;

2. Indifference or lack of effort on the part of a capable student;

3. Physical or social immaturity;

4. Frequent or long absences.

Parents can assume their child will be promoted unless the alternative of retention has been discussed during the school year. Parents will be involved in any retention decision.

LIBRARY

Students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 will receive Library Skills instruction once a week. In Grades 6 through 8, Library Skills are incorporated in the English Language Arts/Literature Curriculum. Students in these grades will have the opportunity to use the Library at the discretion of the teacher and librarian.

Students will receive a Southtowns Catholic Library Card. There is a $1.00 fine for a lost Library Card. There is also a fine for overdue, lost or damaged books.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

A substitute teacher will periodically teach every student. Substitute teachers are used when a teacher is ill, in case of emergencies, personal leave, professional training, etc. Students are expected to be courteous and respectful to substitute teachers.

AWARDS

Students are recognized for a variety of achievements at STC. These awards are intended to promote and acknowledge academic skills, athletic achievement, outstanding effort, service, attendance, cultural achievements and general good school citizenship deserving of recognition.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ATHLETICS

All students in Grades K-8 participate in physical education classes. Students may be excused with a written authorized permission slip from a doctor/parent. Proper gym attire is required: sneakers, STC shorts, wind pants or sweatpants , STC T-shirt or sweatshirt. Gym clothes and sneakers may be worn during school hours on gym day only.

PLAYGROUND

The “Powers Memorial Playground” has been constructed to benefit all children. Courtesy and politeness are the rule at all times on the playground. No rough playing is allowed. Only soft rubber balls can be used in this area. The teacher is in charge. Students who choose improper behavior will lose playground privileges.

ATHLETICS

Diocesan Philosophy

The purpose of the athletic program at the elementary school level is to compliment the home, church and school in the development of the “whole person”. Underlying this purpose is the firm, very real foundation of the Catholic-Christian beliefs and practices, which make our program significantly different in its efforts to reflect and teach as Jesus Himself did.

Activities of the program are for the safety and benefit of the children, suited to match their age and physical growth. Such programs offer students opportunities to participate in sports activities which contribute to the individual’s physical development. Such physical development is part of the development of students who are well-rounded academically, socially and morally.

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Sports are an important part of the overall program at Southtowns Catholic School. They are, however, secondary in importance to academics. Participation in a sport should be viewed as a privilege. Coaches should be respected in the same way as teachers. Practice sessions must be attended and good behavior should be the rule at all times.

ACADEMIC GUIDELINES FOR SPORTS PARTICIPATION

All participating students must pass ALL subject areas. If for ANY reason, they fail two or more subjects, they are dropped from the team. If they fail one subject, they may be suspended from the sport for a two-week period. During that time, the student will focus his/her efforts on bringing up his/her average in a subject area. At the end of this two-week period, the teacher will advise the Principal and/or Coach if the required amount of improvement has been attained. If so, the student would be reinstated on the team. If not, the student would remain ineligible until his grades; effort, etc. improve to the satisfaction of the teacher.

TEAM PARTICIPATION

The decision regarding the team make up should be left to the Coach alone.

SPORTS CONDUCT

Students must realize that participation in sports is a privilege not a right. At all times, they represent Southtowns Catholic School. Any action deemed by the Coach or Principal to be inappropriate should result in appropriate discipline (see Athletic Handbook). The Coach should be left the latitude in conjunction with the Athletic Director to decide which course of action is best. Any problems that arise during the school day concerning a particular student should be handled at a meeting with the Coach or Athletic Director, the Principal and the Teacher involved.

CONDUCT and DISCIPLINE

The Code of Conduct policies established in 2002 are the guidelines for conduct and behavior at Southtowns Catholic. Parents/guardians must read and discuss the Code of Conduct with their children. Students must abide by the “CODE OF CONDUCT” otherwise disciplinary measure will be follow.

EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL STUDENTS

At Southtowns Catholic School, the belief is that all students will behave appropriately, and that teachers and students can work together to create and maintain a positive, respectful and nurturing climate in individual classrooms as well as the entire building.

Teachers strive to instill in all students Roman Catholic values and morals through example, academics, and discipline that ensures respect, first for the rights of others and also for the rules of our school. The expectation is that all students will be respectful, responsible and reverent.

These basic expectations are held for every child:

1. students will be present and on time each day;

2. students will bring all necessary books and supplies to class;

3. students will complete all assigned work on time;

4. students will speak respectfully to classmates as well as faculty, staff and visitors to our
school;

5. students will demonstrate respect for the rights, feelings, ideas and property of others.

CONDUCT

Southtowns Catholic School is a Roman Catholic Educational Community with Catholic Doctrine and Values as the basis of its curriculum and environment. Its mission is to provide a high quality education in this tradition.

The approach to discipline is based on mutual respect, kindness, firmness and consistency. The school depends on the support and backing of parents for an effective and positive discipline program. Well-ordered classes, which create an atmosphere conducive to learning, will aid an effective school program. Positive discipline aids in the development of students who will respect themselves, their classmates, their teachers and staff, volunteers and duly constituted authority. Discipline in a Catholic school is an essential aspect of Christian development, not a punishment. Its purpose is:

1. to guide students toward an appreciation of the importance of developing responsibility and self-control;

2. to foster respect for duly constituted authority;

3. to provide a classroom atmosphere that lends itself to optimum teaching and learning;

4. to help build a sense of Christian Community.

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

Southtowns Catholic School, as a Catholic Christian school, will not tolerate or ignore any acts or threats of violence, harassment or bullying against the faculty, staff and/or students in or out of school. This includes unacceptable physical, written or verbal acts and harassment.

If a student violates this policy, parents/guardians will be contacted immediately and the student will be put on suspension pending an investigation.

Disciplinary action will include, but not be limited to, the procedures and guidelines outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook and the Code of Conduct.

CONDUCT REFERRAL FORMS

These forms will be sent home for infractions of school rules or being out of uniform without parental excuse. Accumulating five of the uniform infractions will result in DETENTION. Parents will be notified by the school office and a mutually agreed upon time will be arranged for a one hour detention after school.

DISCIPLINARY MEASURES AND SANCTIONS

The following actions are some approved disciplinary measures used at STC:

1. Conferences with students;

2. Conferences with parents;

3. Written referrals (copies to parent, teacher and administrative file);

4. Assignment of special tasks;

5. Denial of privileges and removal from positions of responsibility;

6. Restitution for damage to school or personal property;

7. Detention;

8. Probation;

9. Suspension (in-school/out-of-school);

10. Expulsion.

DISCIPLINE REVIEW (CHAIN OF COMMAND)

If a parent disagrees or is dissatisfied with disciplinary measures administered to his/her child to the extent further discussion and consideration is warranted, the parent may seek such discussion and consideration in the following manner:

1. The parent must schedule an appointment with the teacher for a calm and candid discussion of the facts, issues and principles involved;

2. In the event the parent remains dissatisfied with the handling of the disciplinary measure in #1 above or in the event the disciplinary measure has been administered directly by the Principal, the parent must schedule an appointment with the Principal for a similar discussion as described in #1;

3. In the event the parent remains dissatisfied after following the chain of command and desires further review, the Principal will inform both Pastors who will meet with the Principal, parents and teacher (if necessary) together.

SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS

In the event a student develops a pattern of behavior that disrupts the teaching and learning process, STC reserves the right to enforce immediate disciplinary action to preserve an appropriate learning atmosphere. The disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to a