PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK - Saint Bernadette...

Saint Bernadette School 20 Burr Street New Haven, Connecticut

PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Moral Awareness Academic Integrity Social Responsibility

2014 - 2015 Academic School Year

Saint Bernadette Catholic School Family Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTSLetter from the Principal 5Mission Statement of the School 6History of the School 7School Directory 9School Board Directory 10Home and School 11Parent’s Role in Education 12Academic Information/Program Goals and Objectives 13Acceptable Telecommunications 17Accreditation 18Admission Information 18Attendance 20Awards 22Birthday 22Books 22Bullying and Cyber-Bullying 23Bus Regulations 24Cell Phones 25Cheating 26Child Abuse Laws 26Conduct 27Communication 29Dance Policy 30Drug and Alcohol 31Emergency Drills 32Extended Care Program 32Extracurricular Activities 33Field Trips 36Financial Aid Process 36Financial Obligations 37Food/Allergy/Snacks/Parties 39Food Allergy Management Policy 40GraduationHarassment 41Health and Safety 42Home-School Communication 45Library 46Lockers 47Lost and Found 47

2Moral Awareness Academic Integrity Social Responsibility

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Lunch Program 48Non-Custodial Parent 48Off-Campus Conduct 49Photo-Video Release 49Playground 49Physical Education 49Principal's Hours 50Religious Education 50Report Cards/ Progress Reports 51Returning to School after Dismissal 51Sacramental Program 51School Calendar 51School Hours 51School Office Hours 53School Property 53Service Projects 53School Records 54Student/Parent Directory 57Tardiness 57Technology 57Telephone 52Testing 52Toys and Valuables 59Transfer Students 59Tutoring 61Uniform Information 61Uniform and Dress Code Policy 62Visitors 63Volunteers 64Walkers 62Weather Emergencies 62Written Work/Teacher Confidentiality 62Right to Amend 66FormsUse Agreement for Electronic Information Resources 67Website and Other Publications Photo Permission Guidelines 69Field Trip Permission and Wavier Form 70Directory Listing 73Parent Signature Page 74


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Dr. Peter A. Barile, Jr.


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Principal

August 2014

“The Sole Reason for the Existence of our Profession is the Pupils”

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the new school year at Saint Bernadette Catholic School! We are so happy that we will be here in our wonderful school in a safe and nurturing environment.

Your Saint Bernadette Parent/Student handbook is an essential guide with very important information concerning our school policies, process, organizations, and some forms. Please be sure to read the handbook and retain it as a reference during the school year.

Parents are receiving a copy of the handbook via “e-mail” during the month of August. Parents are required to review the handbook with their child(ren) and return the “Signature Form” acknowledging receipt to the school office by no later September 17, 2014.

Thank you for your support and being a member of the Saint Bernadette School community. We look forward to a productive, happy, safe and rewarding school year.

May God Bless you always!

Sincerely,

Peter A. Barile, Jr.Principal


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Saint Bernadette School Mission StatementSteeped in the Catholic tradition, Saint Bernadette School is an ethnically diverse community serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8. Each student is encouraged to strive for academic excellence within a coeducational, safe, nurturing and loving environment where moral values are taught and modeled.

Saint Bernadette Core ValuesBased on the Gospel, Saint Bernadette School’s core values are moral awareness, academic integrity, and social responsibility.

Archdiocese of HartfordPurpose and Vision for Catholic Schools

Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Hartford welcome students of all faiths, ethnic groups and socio-economic backgrounds. The fundamental purpose of Catholic schools is to:

Provide a safe, nurturing and secure environment in which students encounter the living God who, in Jesus Christ, reveals His transforming love and truth;

Partner with parents to support students in their learning and in their search for knowledge, meaning, and truth;

Create a Catholic climate that contributes to the formation of students as active participants in the parish community;

Foster a culture of educational excellence through critical thinking skills, innovative and rigorous curriculum standards, a global perspective, and an emphasis on moral education, community, and service;

Promote life-long learning that advances the development of the whole person - mind, body, and soul; and

Graduate students prepared to become productive, virtuous citizens and church leaders who will fashion a more humane and just world.

School History


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Saint Bernadette Catholic School, located in the Morris Cove section of New Haven, was dedicated as a school within the Archdiocese of Hartford in 1957.Under the direction of Reverend Charles L. Hewitt, Pastor of St. Bernadette Parish, school construction began in August 1956. One year later, the Most Reverend Henry O’Brien, Archbishop of Hartford, dedicated the school.

The Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of St. Catherine of Sienna of Fall River, Massachusetts initially staffed the school. The Dominican Sisters taught at the school for thirty-one years, until their withdrawal in 1988. This withdrawal was due to declining vocations within their order. The school is now staffed by lay teachers and administration that continue to educate the children of St. Bernadette parish in the religious morals and values of the Catholic faith.

In 1986, the Archdiocesan School Office Accreditation Committee certified the school with a five-year accreditation. This accreditation was updated in 1991 and again in 2008, with commendation. The mission of St. Bernadette Catholic School in 1957 was to provide a Catholic elementary education to the children of St. Bernadette Parish. While the school continues to serve the Parish in large part, its population has widened to include students from as far east as Guilford and as far north as Wallingford; which are both suburbs of New Haven. The doors of the school are open to children of all faiths, in order to further the Catholic mission of evangelization. Today, St. Bernadette Catholic School is a Christian community dedicated to an education based on academic excellence, technological literacy, and the principles of the Catholic faith.

The school was originally designed to accommodate grades one through nine, and remained so until 1966. At that time, the construction of Catholic High Schools in the area accommodated grade nine students. St. Bernadette School continued to educate children in grades one through eight until 1985. In that year, St. Bernadette opened its first full day Kindergarten class. In 1992, the Pre-Kindergarten classes for three and four year old students were added to the academic program at the school. The addition of

these two programs led to an increase in enrollment. For the 1997-1998 school year, classes from Pre-Kindergarten through grade two were one hundred percent full with waiting lists. Grades three and four were at ninety percent capacity.

In 1979, the Reverend John J. Georgia, co-Pastor and Priest-Director of the school, commissioned the first St. Bernadette School Board. Since its inception, the School Board has done much to improve the spiritual, academic, and financial well being of the school. The School Board is a advisory body composed of parents, past parents, parishioners, and members of the greater community. The Board works with the


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Pastor and Principal in assessing the financial and long-term development of the school.

In the five years following, St. Bernadette Catholic School underwent major changes within its curriculum. Grades five through eight were departmentalized in order for the students to draw upon the academic strengths of individual teachers. Student preparation for the challenges of secondary school was enhanced by this departmental approach. The results of this change are made fully evident by the acceptance rates of our students into all the private and parochial high schools in Connecticut, including Fairfield Prep, Lauralton Hall, Sacred Heart Academy, Mercy, Xavier, Notre Dame of West Haven, Notre Dame of Fairfield, Miss Porter’s School, Hopkins, and Choate Rosemary Hall, to name but a few. Alumni have returned to St. Bernadette School to express their gratitude for the exceptional preparation they received as elementary students. They believe that their success in both secondary and higher education is directly attributable

to the strong foundation built at St. Bernadette Catholic School.

In 1996, the school added a fifteen-station state of the art computer lab to the library. The computer lab was moved to a room dedicated to technology in 1995. All computers in the school are fully networked and the building is now wireless capable.

Students have Internet access throughout the building and can access their own files securely for creation, modification, and printing from any workstation in the building. Digital cameras are available for student and teacher use. All classrooms in grades K – 8 are equipped with interactive whiteboards and desk top computers that have the ability to connect to the internet. Students in grades K - 8 have access to 50 iPads which are available for daily classroom use. The Library/Media Specialist works with students and teachers to facilitate the integration of technology throughout the curriculum. The Library Media Center has been central to the augmentation of traditional classroom programs at St. Bernadette Catholic School.

The history of Saint Bernadette Catholic School is a story of challenge and growth. The faculty and administration constantly seek to improve the curriculum and program in order to provide a quality education, firmly rooted in the principles of the catholic faith. The school responded to the challenge of technology integration in the classroom and society by accepting and incorporating technology into the school program. Above all, our Catholic identity is alive and well. Students, faculty, and parents at Saint Bernadette Catholic School are a charitable and caring community. The support and concern for the greater New Haven community is a vital example of our Catholic faith in action.

Saint Bernadette School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.


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Priest Director/ PastorReverend Francis T. Carter

AdministrationDr Peter A. Barile, Jr., Principal

Mr. Edward Goad, Assistant to the PrincipalMrs. Laura Camputaro, SecretaryMs. Eileen Curley, Development

School Office Hours8:00am – 3:15pm

Faculty and StaffMrs. Patricia Scaranuzzo Pre-K Mrs. Kathleen Esposito Instructional AidMrs. Carol Vigorito Instructional Aid Mrs. Claire Hart KindergartenMrs. Anna Lombardo Grade 1Mrs. Donna Florio Grade 2Ms Lori Gill Grade 3Mrs. Myree Conway Grade 4Mr. Louis Rivellini Grade 5, MathMrs. Lynette Glynn Grade 6, Science, ReligionMs. Allison Palombo Grade 7, Language Arts,

ReligionMr. Edward Goad Grade 8, S. S. ,History,

ReligionMs Brittany Cote Spanish Pre-K - 8Ms Marie Celso Music Pre-K - 8Mrs. Mary Cofrancesco Art Pre-K - 8Mr. Joseph DeLucia Physical Edu. Pre- K-8Mrs. Eileen Curley Library/Technology

Mrs. Amy Melillo-Ruocco Social Worker Mr. Al Forgione Custodian


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School BoardThe school board shall follow the school policies of the Archdiocese. As an

advisory board to the pastor, it may recommend to the pastor such additional policies as are necessary to govern the operation of the school.

Its constitution shall be developed according to diocesan guidelines.

School Board Members

Reverend Francis T. CarterDr. Peter Barile, Jr.Anthony Solomine

Cindy MillerEdward Goad

Bob FrauloBill Mainella

Patricia CoFrancesoEileen CurleyBen Bellucci


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Saint Bernadette Home and School Association

Parents of students at Saint Bernadette School are members in the Home and School Association and are expected to attend Home and School meetings throughout the school year. Each family will pay a yearly fee of $300 for membership dues.

The responsibilities of the Home and School Association are:

1. To provide a vehicle for promoting communication and cooperation between the school and the home.

2. To help meet the financial objectives by conducting fundraising projects.

3. To foster a better understanding of the goals and spirit of Catholic education in the school and parish.

4. To influence public opinion and support federal and state legislation for the benefit of non-public schools.

5. To promote Saint Bernadette School by word of mouth, news, referrals, etc.

All families are expected to participate fully in the Home and School Association’s fundraising events in an effort to attain our stated goal. This is in addition to the regular tuition. Full participation in the Home and School Association means: raising of funds, volunteering to staff events, holding an office on the HSA executive committee, volunteering to chair events, and any activity which moves the HSA closer to its stated financial and educational goals. There is no assessed fundraising amount for the school year, however, every family is responsible in helping to meet the HSA financial goal.

Parents’ Role in Education: Parents as PartnersAs partners in the educational process at Saint Bernadette School, we ask parents:

1. To set rules, times, and limits so that your child: Gets to bed early on school nights Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day Is dressed according to the school dress code Completes assignments on time

2. To actively participate in school activities such as Home and School meetings and events, Parent- Teacher Conferences and parish activities


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3. 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

4. To telephone the school when the student will be absent or tardy by 8:45 a.m.

5. To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers

6. To meet all financial obligations to the school

7. To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health

8. To complete and return to school any requested information promptly

9. To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education

10. To support the religious and educational goals of the school

11. To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school

12. To treat teachers with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems

It is the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to cooperate with school staff for the welfare of students. If, in the opinion of the school administration, parental/guardian behavior seriously interferes with teaching, learning, and the orderly operation of the school, the school may require parents/guardians to withdraw their children and sever their relationship with the school.

Academic Information:Program Goals and Objectives

Goal ITo foster the values of the Gospels in the students of St. Bernadette Catholic School.

Implementation: Through the use of sequential Religious texts which enable students to reflect on the

Sunday Liturgy. Through periodic school/classroom liturgies. Through organized service projects and fund raising for the less fortunate. By nurturing the individual prayer lives of our students.


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Through annual religious retreats for students and faculty. Through parental involvement in their child’s/children’s faith development process.

Goal IITo integrate the Christian values of love, justice, charity, and respect into the daily lives of our students.

Implementation: Through the development and implementation of a student honor code. Through the continuation of school wide and classroom discipline policies. Through encouragement of service projects which help those less fortunate than

ourselves. Through organized parish and school family liturgies and celebrations. Through the Student Council which encourages student leadership and citizen

participation.

Goal IIITo nurture the God given gifts in each of our students.

Implementation: Through the encouragement of participation in the school music program. Through active sports programs and cheerleading programs. Through participation in drama and talent shows. Through regular art classes and displays of student creativity. Through classroom and school awards for accomplishments. Through the active participation of students in school liturgies. Through essay and art contests. Through participation in spelling bees and math contests within the classroom and

community. Through a student honor roll in grades five through eight.Goal IV

To provide a quality education that develops the academic, social and technological skills our students will need to be thinking, questioning, responsible Christians of the future.

Implementation: Through standardized testing. Through computer literacy curriculum. Through regularly updated texts. Through ongoing in-service programs and workshops for the faculty and staff. Through enrichment and/or remedial help in identified areas when needed. Through educational field trips. Through the use of audio-visual equipment and materials. Through weekly library periods with a qualified librarian. Through the encouragement of reflective and creative reading and writing in the


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classroom.

CURRICULUMSt. Bernadette Catholic School follows the curriculum for the Archdiocese of Hartford in all academic areas. The curriculum standards for each subject may be viewed on the Office of Catholic Schools website. The Principal in conjunction with the faculty decides on the curriculum materials to be upgraded. The Office of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Hartford provides the school with an approved list of textbooks and suggested supplementary materials. Library materials are purchased only after the librarian and principal have conferred on the priorities and materials. Materials that are considered to be beyond their useful life (i.e. damaged or outdated) may be culled by the librarian and approved for disposal by the principal.

HOMEWORKHomework: Homework is designed to serve a positive purpose and to be closely integrated with class work and assigned on a regular basis. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 4.105). Homework time allotments are as follows:

Grades 1 – 3: 30 minutes Grades 4 – 6: 60 minutes Grades 7 – 8: 90 minutes

Formal homework assignments, other than enrichment reading, shall not be given before holidays and vacations. Long term assignments may extend through this period. Weekend homework will be at the discretion of the teacher.

Incomplete Homework: Students are responsible for the completion of work and seeing that the work is turned into the teacher. A student who does not complete an assignment by a date designated by the teacher will not receive credit for the assignment. The student may receive a detention for the missing assignment. The student may be required to complete the assignment at the detention.

If a student receives three or more detentions in a quarter, his/her parents will be contacted by the teacher either in writing (progress report) or by phone. If it is necessary a parent conference with the Principal and teacher will be called.

Absences and Homework: If a student is absent when an assignment is given or had knowledge of the assignment prior to the absence, he/she will have three days to make-up the work/test. If the teacher feels that more time is required, he/she may extend this


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deadline. Students can access the homework by checking his/her teacher’s web page on the school website. Student work will only be sent home if the absence extends beyond three (3) days. Please do not call the office for work if this condition does not apply. The purpose of this policy is to give the child time to rest and recuperate from any illness.

GRADINGPrimary Report Card (Grades 1-3)

Outcome based grades E, G, M, N (E: Exceeds Grade Level Expectations, G: Grade Level Expectations, M: Meets Minimum Grade Level Expectations, N: Needs Improvement) reflect the philosophy of assessment and grading appropriate for this early developmental level.

Report Card (Grades 4-8)

The report card uses a five-point-scale (A, B, C, D, F) grading system. On this level, letter grades are awarded to document student progress made toward learning objectives.

Schools must adhere to the following Archdiocesan marking code:

A+=100-98 B+=89-87 C+=79-77 D=69-65A=97-94 B=86-83 C=76-73 F=Below 65A-=93-90 B-=82-80 C-=72-70

Any subject that meets only once a week (i.e., art, music, physical education, world language) should use a proficiency grade of O (Outstanding), S (Satisfactory), or U (Unsatisfactory) to indicate student performance.

Honor Roll System for Elementary/Middle SchoolsSchools implementing an honor roll system must include the following subjects when determining honors status: religion, language arts, literature, history/social studies, math, science/health, *world language.

*If taught fewer than three times a week, it need not be considered when determining honors status.

Any grade lower than a B- in a major academic area or lower than an S in a “special” shall negate honor roll status. In the event that a student receives one C in an academic area, but As and Bs in all other academic areas, the status of honorable mention may be awarded. Behavior must be a consideration in determining honor roll status. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 4.134)


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Parent/Guardian Signature for Elementary/Middle Schools

Report cards must be distributed in an Archdiocesan designated envelope. The signature of a parent/guardian on the front of the envelope and subsequent return of the envelope to the homeroom teacher are required. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 4.134)

PROMOTION/PLACEMENT/RETENTIONStudents are promoted once a year based on the student’s satisfactory completion of the grade requirements.

Student retention will be considered in consultation with parents, teachers and the principal. In cases where serious academic difficulties exist, parents will receive weekly reports from the teacher in the form of a progress report. If a student fails two or more major subjects in a school year, they will be recommended for retention. The principal will make the final determination of retention based on academic achievement of the child during the course of the year. Parents will be informed of a recommended retention at least three months prior to the end of the school year.

Schools are authorized to retain a student in a grade for a second year when it is judged that repetition will be beneficial to the student. After consultation with the teacher(s) and parents/guardians, the principal shall be responsible for the final decision. A student may be retained only once throughout the elementary/middle school. Retention should not be considered beyond grade three. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.302)

When there is disagreement between the school and the parents/guardian, the parents/guardians shall make the final decision with a note to its effect in the student’s file. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.302).

An eighth grade student failing a major subject for the year will be required to attend summer school and receive a passing grade before receiving a school diploma. The parent/guardian(s) will bear the cost of providing an instructor.

Academic Probation A student in grades 4-8 may be placed on academic probation if two or more grades during a given term are D, F, or U. The homeroom teacher shall alert the principal when a student is placed on academic probation. Students placed on academic probation may have certain privileges withheld, including but not limited to, restrictions placed on participation in extra-curricular activities. Academic probation may be lifted at the


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discretion of the principal, in consultation with the teachers involved, based on the student’s academic progress.

Acceptable TelecommunicationPhone Calls: Parents may contact the school at (203) 469-2271. Children are not allowed to make telephone calls or receive telephone calls during the day. Only emergency calls are allowed. Phone calls for forgotten lunches or materials will not be allowed. Children remaining after school for additional study help or extra-curricular activities are to make transportation arrangements with their parents prior to the school day. Written permission must be sent to the school if there are changes from a student’s regular dismissal routine. Children will not be allowed to telephone parents. Phone calls will be allowed in an emergency only at the discretion of the Principal or the administrative assistant. Use of cell phones during school hours is not allowed.

Email: Parents may contact teachers through e-mail. Email addresses can be obtained by visiting the school website at www.saintbernadette.org. While the use of e-mail is encouraged please allow 48 hours for a response. All correspondence to teachers will be forwarded to the principal at [email protected].

Pre-K [email protected] K [email protected] Grade 1 [email protected] Grade 2 [email protected] Grade 3 [email protected] Grade 4 [email protected] 5 [email protected] 6 [email protected] 7 [email protected] 8 [email protected]


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mailto:[email protected]





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AccreditationSaint Bernadette School is accredited through the New England Association of Schools & Colleges, Inc. (N.E.A.S.C). Initial accreditation was earned in 1986. In 1986, the Archdiocesan School Office Accreditation Committee certified the school with a five-year accreditation. This accreditation was updated in 1991 and again in 2008, with commendation.

Admission InformationStatement of Policy: St. Bernadette Catholic School admits qualified students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Saint Bernadette School does not discriminate in its administration of its educational policies, admission, policies, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Due to the limits in resources and programs, Saint Bernadette School may not be able to provide an appropriate education to all students with special needs. Because St. Bernadette Catholic School seeks first to educate Catholics, Catholics will receive preference in admission decisions. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.101)

Probationary Policy: Students are admitted to the school on a sixty-day probationary basis. This allows parents, teachers and administration to evaluate the student’s (s’) opportunity for success. If problems do develop, parents will be notified and a conference will be held. Students may be removed at anytime within the sixty-day probationary period if the principal deems this to be in the student’s and/or school’s best interest.

Religious Education: The non-Catholic student shall be considered an integral member of the student body, expected and required to participate in all aspects of the school program, except where his/her religious faith does not allow it. The non-Catholic student shall be required to attend and participate in the religion class. Teachers should be sensitive to the students’ ability to understand, and should be respectful of their personal religious convictions. Non-Catholic students shall be required to be present for liturgical and other religious services. They shall not be required to participate in such services, but should be invited and encouraged to do so to the extent they are able. They may not be permitted to receive the Holy Eucharist or the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Non-Catholic students, shall like other students, be required to participate in service learning projects sponsored by the school. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.105)


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Information Regarding Custodial Arrangements: At the time of registration, the parent(s) shall provide competent information regarding the custodial care of the student and visitation rights. Upon request, the parent(s) shall furnish to the principal a copy of any relevant court order so as to insure the safety and welfare of the student(s). The parent(s) shall have a continuing duty to apprise the school of any changes in the custodial care of the student(s) and of the issuance of any court order restricting or prohibiting parental or third party accesses to the child.

Admissions Preference: Students applying to parish elementary schools shall, if qualified, be accepted according to the following criteria, applied in sequence:

1. Catholic who have brothers and sisters presently students in the school;2. Catholic students from the parish(es) sponsoring the school;3. Catholic students from other parishes in the Archdiocese of Hartford;4. Catholic students from parishes outside the Archdioceses of Hartford;5. Students whose parents/guardians are alumni of the school;6. Non-Catholics who have brothers and sisters presently students at the school;7. Other non-Catholic students.

The decision of the Pastor is final. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.101).

Admission Requirements: Students will only be admitted to St. Bernadette Catholic School after being subjected to the following process (all grades apply):

A copy of the most current report card/standardized test scores is received. The student recommendation form is completed (Students in grade one through

eight). The student and their parent meet with the Principal to discuss placement. The student will take a placement test or readiness test. Schools shall adhere to the age of admission established for kindergarten and grade

one by the State of Connecticut Department of Education. Children shall be six years of age by December 31 of the current year to enter first grade.

Students will provide appropriate proof of medical examination and immunization according to State of Connecticut law and City of New Haven statute.

A letter of recommendation from the student’s pastors, rabbi or minister.

Students with special needs shall be given the same consideration as all applicants. However, prior to admitting a student with diagnosed special needs Saint Bernadette School shall make a determination as to whether or not it feels it can provide an appropriate education for the child. Each child will be considered on an individual basis. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.102)

Saint Bernadette School will consider the following:


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The severity and degree of the disability; The level of support needed form special services and any special equipment the

student may require; The number of students with disabilities currently enrolled in an assigned class; The school’s resources, such as available support personnel, class size,

accessibility of school facilities, etc.; The accommodations, if any are necessary, and the school’s ability to meet those

accommodations; and The child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if one exists, and the school’s ability

to meet the IEP. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.103)

Attendance According to the State of Connecticut General Statutes 10-184 (Duties of Parents) It is the obligation of every parent to insure that every child under his/her care and supervision receives adequate education and training and, if of compulsory attendance age (age seven), attends school. Truancy is a serious infraction and will be dealt with in accordance with State of Connecticut General Statutes and City of New Haven statutes.

Definitions

The following is a listing of definitions pursuant to this policy:

1. “Absence” is when a student is absent from school for an entire school day with or without parental permission or attends less than four (4) hours.

2.3. “Tardiness” is when students arrive at school later than the beginning of

school (8:25 am). Students tardy to school are responsible for all missed work and/or assignments.

4. “Early Dismissal” is when students leave later than 12:30 noon but before 3:00 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE THAT IN ALL CASES TARDIES ARE ALWAYS INDICATED ON THE ATTENDANCE RECORD OF THE CHILD (except when school buses are delayed).

When a student is absent or will be absent a note should be sent or a phone call should be made to the office. Parents who do not notify the office of an excused absence will be contacted. A reason must be stated why the child was absent or will be absent. The school reserves the right to verify information given by parents as a reason for illness (i.e. doctor’s notes).


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Work will not be sent home to sick students, unless they have missed three (3) consecutive days. It will be expected that the student make-up the work (including any tests/quizzes) within three days following their return. If a student is absent when an assignment is due, and they were given the assignment prior to the absence, it must be turned in within the three day period following the student’s return, unless otherwise stated by the teacher. After the three day/teacher imposed deadline on such work, a student who fails to complete the work will receive a grade of zero or no credit. A student who does not complete work under these circumstances may be issued a detention.

A student may be retained in a grade with an absence of twenty or more days from school. (New Haven Public Schools Pupil Services Policy Manual)

If a truancy problem cannot be solved by the Catholic school authorities, the proper local public school officials shall be notified. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.201) A truant is defined as a student in a public or private school who has four unexcused absences in any one-month or ten unexcused absences in any school year. (New Haven Public Schools Pupil Services Policy Manual) If a student is identified as a truant, then the Principal will contact the parent in writing for a meeting. If the parents cannot resolve the problem following the meeting, then the Principal will refer the matter to the Superintendent of Schools for New Haven. Penalties for truancy include referral to the Department of Child and Youth Services and fines.

Vacations during school year: If a student is going on vacation during the school year, no work will be given. While it is understood that vacations during the year may be unavoidable due to parents’ job demands, it is understood that this absence will still be considered unexcused and duly noted as such. If a student misses graded work or a test during this absence, the grade will not be counted toward the calculation of the student’s average.

Errands During School Time: No child shall be sent from or allowed to leave school grounds during school hours without the written consent of a parent/guardian and approval of the Principal. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.202) If a student needs to leave the building during school hours, a parent or their designate must sign the child out and accompany them to their destination.

Medical and Dental Appointments: Dental and medical appointments shall be arranged outside of school time. Such appointments during the school day shall be permitted only by way of exception and when no other arrangements can be made. Students must be signed out at the Main Office before leaving the building.


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AwardsSaint Bernadette School faculty plans student recognition assemblies during the school year. Students may receive awards in the areas of athletics, academics, behavior, and improvement.

Perfect Attendance Award: In order for a student to be eligible for the perfect attendance award the student shall not be tardy, absent or leave early for the entire school year.

BirthdaysStudents who are celebrating a birthday will have their name announced during the morning messages. Due to the number of students who have food allergies students will not celebrate birthdays with food.

Birthday InvitationsUnless the entire class, or all the boys or all the girls are invited to a classmate’s party, students may not receive invitations in school. If a parent wishes to send invitations to only a few students in the class, a list may be obtained from the school office. (Please see permission to give out addresses and phone numbers on the sign off page at the end of this document.) When sending invitations or announcements home to other families via the school, the parent must give a copy of the invitation or announcement to the classroom teacher.

BooksAll books must be covered and taken home in book bags. Only the name, grade and subject are to be written on the cover. Covers are not to be covered with other writing/drawing. Books written in, damaged, or lost will be paid for by the student. The principal will determine the cost of the book and the shipping cost. A damaged book is one that is no longer functional for another student to use.

Bullying and Cyber Bullying


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Bullying is prohibited at Saint Bernadette School. It will not be tolerated during the school day nor during any school-sponsored activities on or off school grounds. Bullying and intimidation are actions that are contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Any behavior deemed by the school administration to be considered as bullying shall result in disciplinary actions, which may include detention, suspension and expulsion from school.

Any student who retaliated against another student for reporting bullying may be subject to disciplinary actions, which may include detention, suspension and expulsion from school.

Bullying by CT law is defined as “any overt act by a student or group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, humiliate or intimidate the other student while on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity which acts are repeated against the same student over time.” Bullying includes physical intimidation or assault; extortion; oral, written or electronic threats; teasing; putdowns’ name-calling’ threatening looks , gestures or actions; cruel rumors; false accusations; and social isolation. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.513)

Students may anonymously report acts of bullying to teachers and school administrators.

Parents of the students who commit a verified act of bullying and parents of students against whom such acts were directed will be notified. Consequences for students who bully others shall depend on the results of the investigation and include parent conferences, professional counseling, detention, suspension, or expulsion. Depending on the severity of the incident or the series of incidents, the administrator may also take appropriate steps to ensure student safety. These may include implementing a safety plan, separating and supervising students involved, providing staff for students as necessary, reporting incidents tot law enforcement if appropriate, and establishing a supervision plan with the parents.

Saint Bernadette School does not tolerate cyber bullying. Cyber bullying" is when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones. Students making such threats may face detention, suspension, and/ or expulsion. Engagement in online blogs such as but not limited to, Facebook.com and MySpace.com may result in disciplinary actions if the content on a student’s page includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students or the parish.


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Whether occurring within or outside of school, when a student’s use of electronic communication jeopardizes the safe environment of the school, or is disruptive to the school environment, or is contrary to Gospel values, the student may be subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences, including expulsion. This policy applies to communications or depictions through e-mails, blogs, text messages, or website postings, whether they occur through the school’s equipment or connectivity resources or through private communication, which: (1) are of a sexual nature; (2) threaten, libel, slander, malign, disparage, bully, harass, or embarrass members of the school community; or (3) cause harm to the school community. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.504)

Corporal Punishment: Corporal punishment is forbidden in the schools of the Archdiocese of Hartford. Likewise, verbal abuse is also prohibited. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.210)

Bus RegulationsStudents taking the bus should wait at their designated stops in clear view of the bus driver. Students under ten should wait with their parents. If a bus is late arriving or departing, parents should contact the school office. If parents/student encounter consistent difficulty with the bus arrival and departure, parents should direct a note to the bus company’s attention with a copy to the Principal, so that the problem may be rectified. If satisfaction does not occur after that contact, please write a letter to the Superintendent of New Haven Public Schools and the Mayor. The school does not determine bus runs or schedules. Students are not permitted to ride any bus other than their assigned bus. Students may not bring “guests” on the bus. Students who have the privilege of riding the New Haven Public School’s buses must maintain the following standards of discipline for their own safety and that of other drivers. Bus regulations are as follows:

Except for ordinary conversation, students shall observe quiet conduct on the bus. Students shall stay in their seat while the bus is in motion. Students shall not litter on the bus. Students shall not have food or drinks on the bus. No part of the body shall be extended through the bus window. Students must be quiet while the bus is stopped at railway crossings. Students must be five years old or forty pounds to ride the bus. Students who do

not meet these criteria may not ride the bus. (C.G.S.) Students shall not leave the bus from the emergency door unless an emergency

exists. The driver is in full charge of the bus and the students.


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Students who disobey any of the above regulations will be disciplined using the school disciplinary code and may lose their privilege to ride the bus. If discipline problems on the bus persist, students may be assigned seats. If a student loses bus privileges, it will be the parent’s responsibility to drive the child to school.

St. Bernadette Catholic School will be in no way liable or held responsible for accidents or injuries related to the direct and flagrant violation of the above policies. These policies exist to promote the safety of students and parents alike. Those who deliberately disregard them and the established public traffic regulations do so at their own risk.

Cell PhonesStudents shall not possess or use remotely activated paging devices while they are in school. The school principal may grant written permission for such possession and use of a paging device by a student if the student or the student’s parent/guardian establishes to the satisfaction of the principal that an extraordinary circumstance exists which necessitates the possession and use of the device.

Any cellular phone use, including text messaging, during the school day is prohibited.

The use of camera phones to take pictures in restrooms and locker rooms at any time is prohibited.

Any cellular phone use, including text messaging, or use of camera phones during a test shall be considered and treated as cheating. If a parent needs to contact a student during school time, such communication shall be through the school’s office.

During normal school hours, all cellular phones shall be turned off. A child found with a cellular phone that is turned on during school hours shall be subject to discipline.

Students who do not comply with these policies shall have their phones taken away until a parent/guardian comes to the office to retrieve the phone. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.509)

If a child brings a cell phone to school, the phone should be given to the classroom teacher for the duration of the school day and collected from the teacher at dismissal. Unauthorized cell phone use by a student will result in confiscation. The cell phone will be returned after the parent/guardian has contacted the school and made arrangements to collect it personally.

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Cheating, of any form, will not be tolerated at Saint Bernadette. This includes plagiarism, the stealing of other’s ideas. If a student is caught cheating a zero will be given for the assignment/test. Students who choose to cheat may also face detention, suspension and/or expulsion.

Child Abuse LawsRegarding Suspected Child Abuse: Under penalty of state law, the school and any of its employees are obligated to report any suspected child abuse. St. Bernadette Catholic School will comply with Connecticut General Statutes 17-38a, 17-38b, 17-38c, 16-38h and Public Act 96-246.

The identification and prevention of child abuse and neglect is of the utmost priority in our schools. All school personnel must abide by state law and Archdiocesan policy in regard to this subject. All school personnel and especially the Principal shall keep informed of their legal obligations under the law. Whenever there is a concern over legal requirements and obligations, the Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent must be contacted.

Whenever a report is made by a mandated reporter to the appropriate civil authorities, such mandated reporter shall also inform the school’s Principal who shall report said instance to the Pastor and Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent, and shall ensure that a report, as required by statute, is made to the legitimate civil authorities as per the administrative procedures to this policy. In an instance of sexual misconduct by a school employee, the more restrictive norms of the Archdiocesan policy on this subject shall also be in effect.

Under current law, Section 17a-101 of the Connecticut General Statutes requires certain individuals, called “mandated reporters” to contact civil authorities whenever such individuals have reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a child has been abused or neglected.

This required reporting is part of the public policy of the State of Connecticut which seeks: to protect children whose health and welfare may be adversely affected through injury and neglect; to strengthen the family and to make the home safe for children by enhancing the parental capacity for good child care; to provide a temporary or permanent nurturing and safe environment for children

when necessary. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.605)

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Detention: (Grade 1 – 8): The following are offenses for which a detention may be given: Disruptive behavior. Violation of the Uniform/Dress Code. Disobeying instructions from a teacher/staff member or the principal. A violation of the school honor code. Being disrespectful to a staff member or another student. Horseplay. Verbal fighting. Failure to return a detention Use of profane gestures or language. Cheating (warning) (A zero will be given for the assignment/test.) Three accumulated tardy slips in one quarter. (A student is late after the first class

bell has rung at 8:25 a.m.) Forgery Snowball throwing Improper public displays of affection Throwing of objects Dishonesty Failure to cross in a crosswalk Gum chewing Failure to attend a scheduled disciplinary detention. Possession or use of a cell phone during the school day.

When a detention is assigned a slip is sent home for parents/guardians to sign and return the next school day. If a child/parent misplaces the detention slip, a note acknowledging receipt must be sent the next school day or the child will receive another detention.

Disciplinary Probation: (Grades 1 – 8): A parent is informed in writing by the principal that the student has been placed on Disciplinary Probation. The parents, teacher and principal will discuss the student’s problems and decide on a behavior modification plan to improve the behavior. Any student who receives four or more detentions in a quarter may be placed on disciplinary probation. Students who commit an act that places them in immediate suspension will also be placed on disciplinary probation. A student on disciplinary probation may not participate in any extra-curricular activities until they are removed from disciplinary probation.

Suspension (In School and Out of School): Suspension is the complete removal of the student from classes and school activities for a school day. The suspension is noted as such on the student’s attendance record. A record of the suspension is placed in the student’s permanent file. The seriousness of the infraction will determine the need for an in school versus out of school suspension. A student who receives a suspension will be required to make up all missed work and tests. The suspension is counted as an


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unexcused absence from school. The principal will notify parents verbally and in writing when a suspension occurs. A conference may be called with the parents, student, principal and any involved staff members to discuss the incident. No attorneys will be allowed to attend suspension hearings. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.207) A student may be suspended for the following:

Destruction of school property. (Student will pay for damage.) Excessive detentions or behavior detentions Insubordination. Physical Fighting. (Both parties involved will be suspended.) Second instance of cheating. Unauthorized absence from the building. Harassment of a staff member, another student or member of the community. Any serious offense that violates the student honor code or handbook policies. Truancy. Defiance of authority. Sexual harassment – defined as an unwanted or improper comment or overture of a

sexual nature. Any physical or verbal behavior of a sexual nature that intimidates and inhibits a student’s education. Any physical or verbal behavior of a sexual nature that is offensive or creates a hostile situation. Any comments or actions of this nature that are directed toward a student or staff member.

A student on disciplinary probation who receives another (additional) disciplinary detention will receive a suspension.

Suspensions will be placed in the student’s permanent record and will be disclosed to any school the child may be applying to.

Expulsion: Expulsion is the dismissal of the student from the school. This may only be done upon the approval of the pastor, principal and the Office of Catholic Schools. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.208.) A student can or may be expelled for the following reasons:

Three or more suspensions in a school year. Verbal or physical assault of a student, teacher or staff member. Possession or use of alcohol or a controlled substance. If a student is arrested

anywhere in the country for possession of a controlled substance or a weapon they are automatically expelled. Parents of learning disabled students will be contacted prior to expulsion because it may affect their educational program. (If a student voluntarily submits to a counselor, teacher or other staff member regarding drug use, they will have one day to tell their parents. If the student and parents agree to drug assessment and substance abuse treatment within two days following initial disclosure, there will be no expulsion. The student will be placed in home study, which is defined below.

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Conduct, whether inside or outside of school that is detrimental to the image of the school can or may end in automatic removal of the student from the school.

Possession of a potentially lethal weapon/instrument.

When an expulsion becomes necessary, a meeting will be called with the parents, student, and Principal present. The parents and student will be presented with a list of the charges leading to the student’s dismissal. No attorneys will be allowed to attend expulsion hearings. Expulsion papers become part of the student’s permanent record.

Due Process and Disciplinary Action: When a student is disciplined they will be told what they have done and will be allowed a statement to respond to the charge(s). They will then be assigned the disciplinary action required. Any questions regarding disciplinary action should initially be directed to the teacher/staff member assigning the disciplinary action. If still dissatisfied, the parent should appeal the decision in writing to the principal and Priest-Director. The decision of the principal and Priest-Director will be final and binding.

Disclaimer: Attendance at St. Bernadette Catholic School is a privilege and not a right. The principal and or pastor reserve the right to change or amend or make exception to the above policies should it become necessary. The student can be expelled or not allowed to return for appropriate reasons at the school’s discretion. Principal reserves the right to waive disciplinary actions/procedures for just cause.

Communication Complaint or Concern: If a student or parent has a concern about a school policy or an employee, the following procedure should be followed in order to resolve the problem as quickly as possible:

1. Contact the person who you have a complaint about to discuss both sides of the story.

2. If the problem still exists, contact the principal.

3. If still unresolved, contact the pastor.

Press Releases: News releases concerning St. Bernadette Catholic School are made with the approval of the Principal.

Daily Announcements and Prayer: Daily announcements and prayer will be held at 8:25 a.m. During announcements, students should be standing at their desk with their hands folded. Students may not talk during the announcements and prayer.


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Distribution of Materials: In order for any non-curricular or promotional literature to be sent home to students/parents it must first be approved by the principal. Literature that promotes values contrary to that of the Catholic Church will be prohibited.

Recommendations (High School/Student):

Parents will submit all recommendations to the main office. The principal will hand out recommendations to specific teachers to be completed.

The office will maintain a copy of all recommendations in student files. Transcripts and recommendations will be sent in one package to admissions offices of

the designated high schools/schools.

Parent-Teacher Conferences: Parent-teacher conferences are conducted at regularly scheduled intervals throughout the school year. A good parent-teacher relationship enables both to have a better understanding of the child. Parents are always welcome to visit with the teacher or the principal. Parents should make appointments for these visits by calling the school office. A mutual time is to be arranged with the classroom teacher. Because of the unnecessary disturbance to the teacher and the class, at no time are parents to go to a classroom to speak with a teacher or child during the school day. Parents may not call staff members at home to discuss their concerns.

The following are opportunities that you will have to meet with your child’s teacher: Back to School Night/First Home and School meeting is held at the beginning of the

year. The first report card will be distributed at parent-teacher conferences in November.

Both parents are required to meet with their child’s/ren’s teacher. A second conference date is set for March. The need to meet with your child’s/ren’s

teacher at this conference will be mutually agreed upon by teacher and parents. Parents or teachers may initiate conferences at anytime during the school year.

Dance PolicyDance Policy: Periodically throughout the school year, the 7th and 8th grade classes may hold a dance. The following rules apply with regard to a dance:

Dances are held between 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. Students must be picked up promptly at 9:30p.m.

Other Catholic schools may be invited at the discretion of the principal. If other Catholic schools send students, they must sign-in upon arrival and departure

and leave a cell phone the parent or guardian who will picking up the student. Other Catholic school students must be accompanied by a faculty chaperone. No individual guests are permitted.


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The 7th/8th Grade teacher will choose and hire the disc jockey. The students will submit a play list of the songs to the principal or designee for approval.

Absence from school the day of the dance means the student may not attend the dance that night.

Proper attire is required: The following are not permitted: Halters/midriffs. Torn or ripped jeans. Tee shirts. Mini-skirts Clothing with offensive imprints. Black soled sneakers, flip flops

All school discipline policies are in effect at dances. Students on disciplinary probation may not attend dances.

Drugs and AlcoholNo student shall possess, use, or attempt to possess, use, or be under the influence of a prohibited substance on school premises during any school term or off school premises at a school-related activity, function, or event. A “prohibited substance” is defined as:

1. Any controlled substance or illegal or dangerous drug as defined by law, including but not limited to, marijuana, any narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, amphetamine, or barbiturate;

2. Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage;

3. Any abuse of glue, aerosol paint, or any other volatile chemical substance for inhalation;

4. Any other intoxicant or mood-changing, mind-altering, or behavior altering drug; and

5. Any prescription drugs used in amounts or purposes not contemplated by the prescription.

6. The transmittal, sale, or attempted sale of a prohibited substance is also prohibited under this policy. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion.

“Use” means a student has smoked, ingested, injected, imbibed, inhaled, drunk, or otherwise taken internally a prohibited substance recently enough that it is detectable by the student’s physical appearance, actions, breath, or speech.


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“Under the influence” means a student’s faculties are noticeably impaired, but the student need not be legally intoxicated.

An interview with the parent/guardian of the student is required before a decision is made regarding the student’s readmission to school.

The school reserves the right to require professional counseling as a condition of maintaining a student’s enrollment.

Under no circumstances should the student be sent home from school or a school-related function without the knowledge and permission of his/her parent/guardian. Under no circumstances are students to be sent home alone. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 3.107)

Emergency Drills Fire Drills: Monthly fire drills are required. There shall be at least two fire drills held during the first two weeks of a school term and eight additional fire drills during the year (Connecticut Fire Safety Code Sec. 31-3.1.2). As all drills simulate an actual fire condition, pupils shall not be allowed to obtain clothing after the alarm is sounded even when in home rooms, due to the confusion that would result in forming the lines and the danger of tripping over the apparel (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.613).

Emergency Plan: There is an emergency plan which is practiced by the faculty and students. Emergency files and supplies are updated yearly. Evacuation plans are reviewed yearly. Please do not call the school if an emergency situation arises. We will contact you as soon as possible. Children may be evacuated to St. Bernadette Church or to Nathan Hale School if the situation becomes necessary for complete evacuation.

Safety of Students: The principal shall oversee supervision of students on the school premises. The faculty shall share this responsibility with the principal. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.611)

Extended Care ProgramMorning Program: The hours of operation for the morning program are from 7:30 – 8:10 a.m. Any student who arrives prior to 8:10 a.m., without parental supervision, is placed in the morning program. A teacher staffs the morning program. Parents must sign their child/children in when they arrive. Please enter through the school using the front door. Children may read or play quietly during the morning. Students may not bring toys to school to play with.

Afternoon Program: The afternoon program runs from 3:00pm to 6:00 p.m. Attendance will be taken at the beginning of the program. Parents/guardians or other


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approved child care providers must sign the child/children out. All students should be picked up by 6:00 p.m.

Anyone picked up later after 6:00p.m. will be charged $5.00 for every 5 minutes late.

The afternoon program is designed so that students will do homework, and play. A teacher and an assistant staff the program. Parents or a designated adult (use Release of Student Form) may only pick up students. A staffer will wait with the children until their parent/guardian picks them up. Students may not bring toys to school to play with. They are provided as part of the program.

Billing and Payment for Services: Parents will prepay for services. All accounts must be current by the Friday prior to the last day of school. Any account that becomes fifteen (15) days past due will no longer receive services until the balance is paid.

Parents will be billed if their child is placed in the Extended Day Program because of early drop-off or late pick-up.

If there is an early release there will be no aftercare that day. This is to ensure that students and staff remain safe.

Extracurricular ActivitiesExtra-curricular activities exist as a means for students to develop other aspects of their lives at St. Bernadette Catholic School. Many of these activities are dependent upon student interest and the dedication of volunteers. The extra-curricular activities available at St. Bernadette Catholic School are:

Girls’ softball Boys’ baseball Girls’ basketball Boys’ basketball Cheerleading School Newspaper Student Council Literary Magazine Band Choir Art Club Class Officers


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Soccer Cross Country Multicultural Club Homework Club Math Club Drama Club Yearbook


Students must possess an overall average of a C- or better on progress reports and report cards to participate in extracurricular activities. Students may not participate for ten (10) school days if their overall average is a C- or lower. The students will meet with the teacher to develop a plan to improve grades. After the ten (10) day probation, if grades have improved, the student will be allowed to participate. This policy also extends to any student who receives a grade F in any major subject. If at any time during the semester the student’s grades again slip under a C-, they will again be put on probation for an additional ten (10) days. The student on probation must raise their grade before being allowed to participate. Teachers, coaches and parents will be notified of any probation.

We realize how important extra-curricular activities are for the development of the whole child, but the primary purpose of our school has to be education and we want to challenge our students to do their best both in school and on the fields of competition.

Students who are absent from school during a given day, may not participate in any school related events on that day.

Athletic Policies: The purpose of the Athletic Program at St. Bernadette is to enhance the extra-curricular life of the child, to develop habits of good sportsmanship and to develop a sense of teamwork among students. St. Bernadette is a member of the New Haven District of the Archdiocese of Hartford and plays other schools in the New Haven Deanery.

In the design of the athletic program, the widest possible participation of students shall be encouraged. Over emphasis on competitive athletics shall be avoided. Students who participate in sports must meet the behavioral and academic standards the school sets for membership on sports teams. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 4.126)

In order for students to participate on teams, they must be at least ten years of age and less than fifteen years of age as of December 31 of the season in question. Students must provide the school with a Xerox copy of their birth certificate to demonstrate proof of their birth date (Archdiocese of Hartford, CYO Office).

Following tryouts, the coach will provide the school with an official roster of the team members. Before any practices occur, team members will be sent medical information forms and liability waivers. Parents must have their child insured for any injuries that may occur as a result of practicing or playing a sport. Students may not practice or play until the medical information form; liability waiver and fee are submitted. The fee covers the operating costs of the sports program. Unless the team already possesses a uniform, the student will be responsible for the purchase and maintenance of the


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uniform. The athletic fee must be paid for each sport that the child registers to participate.

The coach will designate a team captain at their discretion. Uniform gym pants or shorts may be worn as part of the team uniform. Students who participate on a team will be subject to the following standards:

Students must possess an overall average of a C- or better on progress reports and report cards to participate in extracurricular activities. Students may not participate for ten (10) school days if their overall average is a C- or lower. The students will meet with the teacher to develop a plan to improve grades. After the ten (10) day probation, if grades have improved, the student will be allowed to participate. This policy also extends to any student who receives a grade F in any major subject. If at any time during the semester the student’s grades again slip under a C-, they will again be put on probation for an additional ten (10) days. The student on probation must raise their grade before being allowed to participate. Teachers, coaches and parents will be notified of any probation.

Students must adhere to the Student Honor Code and school policies listed in the student handbook. The student discipline policy will apply to any student who violates any of these rules. The coach, Athletic Director and the Principal reserve the right to suspend any player at anytime for just cause.

Students who exhibit the following behavior when representing the school at an athletic event/practice may be suspended:

Obscene or hurtful language. Acts in a manner that shows displeasure/disrespect toward another player or coach

or referee. Violations of the established game, Deanery or school rules regarding the sport.

Because students represent St. Bernadette Catholic School, they will at all times act in a manner that is consistent with our policies and beliefs. We also strongly urge parents to set an example for the children and to refrain from conducting themselves in a manner which reflects unfavorably on their team, child, and St. Bernadette School.

Missed games due to weather or illness will be rescheduled if possible.

The school is not financially responsible for any injuries that occur as a result of participation in team sports. Athletic fees are non-refundable.


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Field Trips Children are permitted to go on educational field trips each year if the teacher feels that such an activity will enhance the classroom experience. The teacher in consultation with the principal arranges these trips. Official permission slips signed by a parent/guardian are to be presented by each child in order to go on a trip. A generic permission supplied by the parent will not be accepted. Misconduct can keep a student from participation in the class trip, since failure to follow directives can place the child in a precarious situation. School uniforms are to be worn on all trips unless the nature of the trip warrants otherwise. Non-uniform attire must be presentable and neat. Unusual or revealing outfits are not permitted and the student will not be able to go on the trip. Field trips are a privilege not a right.

Field trips are part of the educational program and must meet criteria. Therefore, if a parent does not wish the child to participate they must notify the teacher in writing as soon as the trip is announced and the teacher and/or principal may give an extra assignment to be completed in lieu of the educational experience of the trip. The child’s absence that day will be marked as unexcused unless the Principal determines otherwise. Once the parent has indicated permission for the child to go on the field trip, they will be responsible to cover the cost of the trip even if the child does not go on the trip. This is because the price per student is determined in advance and the teacher must make prior arrangements which usually cannot be altered.

No student shall be permitted to go on a field trip unless his/her parent/guardian has given written permission, submitted on the official form. Written notes that do not contain the exact language of the form shall not be accepted. ( Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 4.125)

All parents interested in being a chaperone must undergo VIRTUS Training and a Background Check. If a parent has not obtained this certification or completed the Background Check they will not be allowed to chaperone.

Financial Assistance ProcessEvery family seeking financial assistance must apply for by completing the Private School Aid Service application (PSAS). The application deadline is posted on the website. Families seeking financial assistance must apply every year by completing the application process. The application may be accessed online by going to www.saintbernadette.org . The application link is located under forms on the website. A


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paper copy may be obtained by contacting the school office. The Financial Assistance Committee will make recommendations based on the information received from the PSAS. Only those students with a signed contract and paid enrollment fee will be considered for financial assistance.

Financial ObligationsPayment of Monies: Anytime a student brings money to school, the cash, check or money order should be placed in an envelope with the child’s name, grade, amount enclosed, and what the payment is for. Post-dating of checks is not allowed. Post-dated checks will be returned to the sender and the account will remain as unpaid.

Fees: The following non-refundable fees are in effect for the school year: Insufficient Funds Fee: $30 Late Tuition/Payment Fee: $35 Athletic Fee per Sport: $100 Enrollment Fee per Child K – 8 $300 HSA Annual Membership Fee $300

Tuition Payments:

There are two payment plans:1. Full payment: The entire amount of tuition is paid on or before May 1st of

the preceding school year. Full payment cancellations as a result of withdrawal are subject to $150 service fee.

2. Monthly payment: Monthly payments begin May 1st and end February 1st. Tuition is due and payable on the 1st day of each month. Failure to pay tuition by the 15th of any month will result in a $35 late charge for that month.

3. Credit Card payments: For your convenience credit card payments are accepted at the school office during regular school hours. There is an additional fee for each credit card transaction.

Late Payments: Accounts that are past due after the 15th of each month will receive a reminder and the account will be charged a $35 late fee. Accounts that are past due after thirty days will receive a second warning. Any accounts that remain past due beyond forty-five (45) days will place the student’s (s’) enrollment at risk.


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In the event, parents encounter financial problems leading to an inability to pay tuition, they should contact the principal or pastor immediately to discuss payment options.

Collections of Unpaid Tuition: The school reserves the right to exercise all legal means necessary in the collection of tuition and fees. Unpaid tuition will be turned over to attorneys for collection and judgment. Parents, in accordance with their contracts accept responsibility to pay all collections costs, including attorney’s fees.

Tuition Refunds: Tuition will not be refunded for any month, which has begun. Any tuition paid beyond the month, which is currently in session, will be refunded when a student withdraws or is removed from school. No refunds will occur after January of the current school year. Refunds are only made after all debts to St. Bernadette Catholic School and Home and School Association are paid.

Insufficient Funds: The ISF fee is $30 and will be applied to any account when an insufficient funds check is received. A copy of the insufficient funds check will be sent home with a letter requesting payment. ISF checks must be reimbursed with a bank check, money order or cash. ISF checks are not re-deposited.

Non-Admission Due to Tuition Payment Delinquency: Students whose tuition is not current at the end of the school year may be denied admission for the next school year unless other tuition payment arrangements have been made with the Pastor. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.406)

Grade Eight Tuition: Students who are in grade eight must have their tuition paid in full by February 1st. If the tuition for the student will not be paid by February 1st the parent must make arrangements to meet with the pastor and principal to discuss payment arrangements. Unpaid tuition as of February 1st for a grade eight student will result in the student not being able to participate in class night or attend the class trip.

Late Registration: Families who register after May 1st are expected to fulfill their tuition obligations according to the stated tuition policy. Students who register during the current school year will have their tuition prorated monthly.


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Fund-raising Obligation: Every family in the school, regardless of grade is committed to the fund-raising efforts of the Home and School Association (HSA). All families will pay a $200 annual membership fee.

Field Trip Fees: Field trip fees must be paid by the date specified. Once the parent has indicated permission for the child to go on the field trip, they will be responsible to cover the cost of the trip even if the child does not go on the trip. This is because the price per student is determined in advance and the teacher must make prior arrangements which usually cannot be altered.

Other Fees: Other fees that are not included in tuition are: yearbooks, pictures, milk, hot lunch, class trips, library fines, lost or ruined book fines and sport fees. Certain teachers may require students to purchase weekly readers or outside reading books. All fees must be paid in full by June 30th of the school year. All fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated.

Parish Contributions: Families who attend a Catholic church without a Catholic school must inform the office if they are a registered family. As outlined in the Policy and Procedure Manual parishes without schools must pay $250 for each registered child attending a Catholic school. This money is not used to reduce the tuition of the student. The money is placed in the general fund under the category of parish support and is part of the operating income. (Archdiocesan Policy 2.404)

Graduation Dues: Graduation dues will be determined at the first parent class meeting in September. All dues should be paid by check or money order to Saint Bernadette School and placed in an envelope marked “8th grade dues” and turned in to the main office. The dues will be paid in two installments. The first payment is due October 1st and the second payment is due March 1st. Any unused dues will be retained by the school and placed in the Development Fund.

Food/Allergies/Parties/SnackFood and beverages will be allowed in the classroom only at the discretion of the teacher. Students in grades Pre-K – 4 are allowed a fifteen minute snack. Please make sure your child has a nutritious snack and a drink. Snack will be limited to fifteen minutes.

We ask that you do not send carbonated beverages (such as soda) and beverages/food in glass containers into school. No energy drinks of any kind are permitted in school. Some teachers allow students to keep a water bottle on or near their desk. If so, the water bottle must be labeled with the student name and may only contain plain,


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unflavored, non-carbonated and uncolored water. Young students are encouraged to avoid bringing items with metal “pop-top” lids for safety reasons. Please avoid sending candy to school with your child. Gum is not permitted on school grounds.

With food allergies on the rise, please consult with the classroom teacher prior to sending food to school, meant to be shared (such as Christmas treats), for approval. It is important that parents notify the school nurse about the status of allergies and other medical conditions. St. Bernadette School is not a peanut- free environment, however, we discourage sending students to school with food items that contain nuts.

In the event that a student forgets his/her lunch, a lunch prepared at home may be delivered to the school by a parent. We ask that food from fast food restaurants not be delivered because it is disruptive in the lunchroom and unfair to students who bring their lunches.

The dining area is a place where good human relations can be developed. Each student is expected to practice the general rules of good manners. Some simple rules of courteous behavior make the lunch period pleasant and relaxed.

Observe good table manners. Use a conversational tone. Leave the table and surrounding area clean and orderly. Put trash and recyclables in the proper containers.

Food Allergy Management PlanTeachers will:

1. Require that students completely avoid foods that cause allergic reaction. 2. Read ingredient labels each time. Manufacturers change ingredients without warning. Request assistance from School Nurse with this. 3. Ask questions about food prep (cross contamination). 4. Discuss allowed foods with parents. 5. Allow student with allergy to provide his/her own snack for celebrations or, 6. Require only commercially prepared food be sent to share with others. 7. Clean all tabletops before, after, and between uses. 8. Designate peanut free table, if necessary. 9. No food trading. Students may require regular reminders. 10. Encourage parent involvement in classroom activities. 11. Require that parents provide a non-perishable lunch in the event that a child forgets his/her lunch.


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Parents will:

1. Notify school of child’s allergies. 2. Collaborate with the school to form an individualized Food Allergy Management Plan. 3. Provide written documentation, instructions and medications as directed by physician.

4. Provide properly labeled medications and replace medications after use or upon expiration. 5. Educate the child in the self-management of food allergy. 6. Provide the school with current emergency contact information.

Saint Bernadette School will:

1. Include food-allergic students in school activities. 2. Assure that all staff who interact with student regularly understand food allergy, recognize signs and symptoms and what to do in case of emergency. 3. Eliminate allergen from student’s environment. 4. Assure that medication is stored properly, well marked and easily accessible. 5. Designate/train personnel to give medications. 6. Be prepared to handle an emergency situation. 7. Review Policy / Prevention post reaction. 8. Assure that Food Allergy Management Plan can follow a student on a school-sponsored field trip. 9. Treat any threats made to a child with a food allergy as harassing. 10. Practice the Food Allergy Management Plan.

Information on Allergies:

1. Each child reacts differently. 2. Food allergy plans must be individualized/modified. 3. Key to successful management of food allergies is constant communication and teamwork between staff/parents and students. 4. Symptoms of a food allergic reaction usually occur within minutes but can be delayed for up to 2 hours. 5. Reactions can range from mild to life threatening. 6. The same food can cause a different reaction from person to person.

Graduation


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The date for 8th grade and Kindergarten graduation will be set by April 1st of the current school year. Generally, eighth grade graduation is approximately one week prior to the last day of school.

HarassmentThe schools of the Archdiocese do not condone any form of harassment. All individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect. Harassment in any form is prohibited. The prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all individuals involved in the school.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances. Requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:

(1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly;

(2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis of decisions affecting such individual; or

(3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonable interference with an individual's work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment.

Verbal harassment includes derogatory comments, jokes, or slurs; it also can include belligerent or threatening words spoken to another individual.

Physical harassment includes unwanted physical touching, contact, assault, and deliberate impeding or blocking movements, or any intimidating interference with normal work or movement.

Visual harassment includes derogatory, demeaning, or inflammatory posters, cartoons, written words, drawings, novelties, or gestures.

A student who harasses another student shall be disciplined and may be expelled from the school. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.511).

Health and SafetyMedication: Prescription/non-prescription/temporary medication may only be given if the Authorization for the Administration of Medicines By School Personnel Form is completed by a licensed physician and is returned to the school (City of New Haven Statute). The school nurse will then process the document and place the student on the appropriate medication list in the office. The Nurse, the Principal and a trained teacher only may dispense medication to students. Medication must be held in the office/nurse’s office in a locked cabinet. Approved medication should be brought to school by the parent. The school keeps an individual record of medicines dispensed. School personnel will give no medication to a student unless this procedure has been followed. (City of


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New Haven Statute, Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.602, 5.608, 5.610 Connecticut General Statute: Section 10-212a[a][b]).

The school may not distribute any medicines and/or perform any medical procedures that have not been approved using the following process. This includes the use of cough drops and sunscreen. Parents or a designate may come to school to give the child any temporary medication.

Physicals and Immunizations: State law requires complete primary immunization and a health assessment by a legally qualified practitioner of medicine, the school medical advisor, or his designee and screenings prior to school entrance in Connecticut. (Connecticut General Statutes Sections 10 – 204a, 10-206, 10-214). Students entering Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Grade 6 need completed copies of the New Haven Health Form prior to enrollment for the next school year. A copy of the required form may be obtained from the school office. The form for Pre-K is yellow and for Kindergarten and Grade 6 it is blue. The form you submit must be an original form; copies and faxes will not be accepted. Any child that does not meet the above medical criteria for enrollment in the fall may not be allowed to attend school as determined by the school nurse.

Regarding the requirements for polio immunization, students entering kindergarten under five years of age (48- 59 months) are allowed to enter if they have received a minimum of three doses of polio vaccine (OPV or IPV) prior to school entry. However, those students who did not receive their last dose of polio vaccine on or after the 4th birthday, must receive a polio booster dose by the time they turn five years of age in order to remain in school beyond their fifth birthday. For older new entrants (age five and older), a minimum of three doses of polio vaccine is required for school entry, with at least one dose of polio vaccine given on or after their fourth birthday.

Regarding the requirements for the DTP immunization, students entering kindergarten under five years of age (48 – 59 months) are allowed to enter if they have received a minimum of four doses of DTP vaccine prior to school entry. However, those students who did no receive their last dose of DTP on or after the fourth birthday, must receive a DTP booster dose by the time they turn five years of age in order to remain in school beyond their fifth birthday.

Completion of a series of three doses of hepatitis B vaccine is now required in Connecticut for school and day care entrants who were born on or after January 1, 1994. While the optimal spacing of doses is four or more weeks between the first and the


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second doses and five or more months between the first and third doses, the following spacing intervals are acceptable for meeting school and day care entry requirements.

If the first dose is given at birth, at least five and half months should pass between the first and third doses.

When vaccinations are initiated at two months of age, at least four months should pass before the third dose is given. At least three weeks should pass between the second and third doses.

All students, including those of foreign citizenship must meet the above state laws on required immunizations.

School Nurse/Illness: A trained nurse from the New Haven Department of Health, Nursing Bureau staffs the school one day a week. Students who are ill may go to the nurse. The nurse is responsible for annual checkups in hearing, vision, scoliosis, and lice. If a child is sick during a time when the nurse is not in, the secretary will contact parents. Serious injuries will be recorded on incident reports and a copy will be given to parents.

Asbestos Management Plan - Notice: In compliance with AHERA regulations, the school is required to inform all of the personnel, parents and students associated with St. Bernadette Catholic School of the Asbestos Inspection Report and Management Plan. This report/plan is on file in the Principal’s Office and is available for review by any parent, teacher, etc. during normal school business hours.

Accessibility: St. Bernadette Catholic School, recognizing that some areas in some schools are inaccessible to disabled individuals, adopts the following policy:

All meetings, conferences, programs and activities at St. Bernadette Catholic School are available, without discrimination to disabled individuals as defined by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and/or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Whenever a disabled individual wishes to attend or participate in a meeting, conference, program or activity, which is inaccessible, that meeting, conference, program or activity will be relocated to an accessible area.


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Forty-eight (48) hour notice by the disabled individual should be made to the Principal’s office of the need for relocation. The Principal is responsible for implementing this policy by relocating programs.

Should a handicapped student need to use library materials, the principal or designated staff person will obtain the materials for the student.

Bathroom Use: A student may use the bathroom at anytime during the school day. He/She must possess a hall pass from the teacher and he/she must sign-out of the classroom when leaving for the bathroom. If a student abuses this privilege parents will be contacted.

Pre – Kindergarten students must be toilet trained prior to their attendance at school. Pull ups, diapers and toilet training devices are not permitted in school. If a child has an accident, the parents will be contacted for a change of clothes. Children in PK and Kindergarten should possess a change of clothes at school.

Regarding Suspected Child Abuse: Under penalty of state law, the school and any of its employees are obligated to report any suspected child abuse. St. Bernadette Catholic School will comply with Connecticut General Statutes 17-38a, 17-38b, 17-38c, 16-38h and Public Act 96-246.

HIV/AIDS Policies: St. Bernadette Catholic School complies with the Archdiocese of Hartford policies on HIV and AIDS. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.206)

Life/Death Emergencies: The school will automatically call 911 if a life threatening or a potentially life threatening accident occurs with a student. Parents will be contacted as well.

Sick Children: Please do not send a sick child to school. If a child leaves school for illness and possesses a fever, the fever should be gone for twenty-four (24) hours before the child returns to school. We want children to get well. There will be no homework sent home unless the student misses three consecutive days from school. Students who have acquired a contagious disease (i.e. chickenpox) should remain home for three days or until the communicability of the disease has ended.

Clothing: Students should be appropriately dressed for the weather. All clothing should be labeled with the child’s name. If children are not dressed properly parents may be called and students may not be permitted to leave the building until the parent brings a change of clothing. Hats and gloves are required for young children during the winter months. If the child is missing these items and it is too cold, the child will not be permitted outside for recess.


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Insurance Coverage: As stipulated in the school’s General Liability Policy, students are not covered for medical expenses resulting from any injury received at school or in their participation in school-sponsored activities or events away from the school premises. Any medical bills or injury claims should be referred to the major medical coverage in force for your child.

Students are offered special student insurance policies at the beginning of the school year. Families are strongly encouraged to consider the purchase of the supplemental insurance coverage.

Before and After School Supervision: Students are not allowed on school property unsupervised before 8:10 a.m. or after dismissal. Otherwise they must be in the extended day program or in an authorized extracurricular activity. Students arriving early or students who are not picked up on time will be placed in the Extended Day Program and parents will be charged.

Home-School Communication Parent-Teacher Conferences: Parent-teacher conferences are conducted at regularly scheduled intervals throughout the school year. A good parent-teacher relationship enables both to have a better understanding of the child. Parents are always welcome to visit with the teacher or the Principal. Parents should make appointments for these visits by calling the school office or emailing the teacher to request an appointment. A mutual time is to be arranged with the classroom teacher. Because of the unnecessary disturbance to the teacher and the class, at no time are parents to go to a classroom to speak with a teacher or child during the school day. Parents are requested not to call staff members at home or on their cell phones to discuss their concerns.

The following are opportunities that you will have to meet with your child’s teacher: The Orientation night/First Home and School meeting is held at the beginning of the

year. The first report card will be distributed at parent-teacher conferences in November. Conferences will be available in early March to discuss student progress and teacher

or parent concerns. This conference is by appointment only. Parents or teachers may initiate conferences at anytime during the school year.

School-Parent Communications: School notices and correspondence are sent home with the oldest or only child on a daily basis. We urge you to check your child’s home folder for these notices.


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Website: The school website (www.saintbernadetteorg) is an excellent source of information and is updated on a regular basis.

Email: While the use of email is encouraged, please allow a minimum or 48 hours for a response. This is not an appropriate method of communicating time sensitive information. Messages involving the change in attendance or dismissal for your child should not be communicated by school e-mail.

School Phone: Children will not be allowed to use the phone unless it is an emergency. A parent can call the school at (203) 469-2271.

Library /Media and Research Center The students, faculty, and staff of Saint Bernadette School share the responsibility of maintaining an environment, which allows the Media Center to serve the needs of our school. Students are expected to respect the rules of the school as well as those specific to the media center. The school library/media center seeks to provide a wide variety of materials to support school curriculum and promote a love of reading. Students may use the media center only during assigned class times or when the librarian or another teacher is present to supervise.

All students in grades K through eight are allowed to check out materials from the media center during scheduled class time. Students may take the materials home, with the exception of Kindergarten and grade one students. Reference materials may not be removed from the media center at anytime.

The student is held responsible for any and all materials borrowed from or used in the media center.

Circulating materials are checked out for a period of one week. Students may renew their materials for additional time by presenting the materials to the librarian during scheduled media center class time. Students who neglect to return their books may not borrow additional materials. The number of books a student may check out of the media center is solely at the discretion of the librarian. Overdue fines of $.25 a week will be levied on all overdue materials. A notice of overdue status will be sent home to the student’s parents.

The student or their parents will pay for any materials that are lost or damaged. The school librarian will determine the cost of repair or replacement. A bill will be sent to the student’s parents.


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http://www.saintbernadetteschool.org/


All media center materials must be returned to the media center by the end of May. Materials not returned by this date will be considered lost and the student’s parents will be billed.

All students are expected to respect the media center, librarian, faculty and other students while in the media center. Disruptive behavior will be dealt with as in any other classroom, and in accordance with the discipline policy outlined herein.

LockersThe principal and/or his/her designee may search student desks, lockers and personal belongings, including, but not limited to, handbags, briefcases, purses, backpacks, clothing and other items in a student's possession.

The local police, using drug detecting dogs, may be invited into the school on a random basis to search lockers as a proactive, preventative measure. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.502)

Lost and FoundThe school maintains a lost and found. If a student has lost an item, they should report the loss to the office. Items that are found will remain in the lost in found for one month. Following the month, they will be turned over to a local charity or the uniform swap shop.

Lunch ProgramIn order to participate in the lunch program the purchase of a lunch ticket from the Main Office is necessary. In order for a student to receive lunch he/she must be included in the daily lunch count in homeroom. There will be no changes in the count after that time. Students who are not included in the daily count will not be allowed to purchase hot lunch. Lunch tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to the lunch for which students intend to buy.

Lunch menus will be posted on the monthly parent calendars that are sent home. The school also manages a milk program for all students. Parents who meet Federal requirements may be eligible for financial assistance. Please contact the office if interested. Students must bring lunch to school. If a student is found to be without a


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lunch, their parents will be contacted to bring lunch to school. Please do not purchase lunch from an outside vendor for your child.

Non-Custodial ParentInformation Regarding Custodial Arrangements: At the time of registration, the parent(s) shall provide competent information regarding the custodial care of the student and visitation rights. Upon request, the parent(s) shall furnish to the principal a copy of any relevant court order so as to insure the safety and welfare of the student(s). The parent(s) shall have a continuing duty to apprise the school of any changes in the custodial care of the student(s) and of the issuance of any court order restricting or prohibiting parental or third party accesses to the child.

Access to Records by Non-Custodial Parent: This statute provides a non-custodial parent of a minor child with access to a child’s academic record unless a court has forbidden access. (Connecticut General Statutes, Section 46b-56)

Any custodial parents that possess a court document refusing a non-custodial parent access to the child or academic records should send the school a copy of said document forbidding this access. The document must possess explicit language forbidding parental access to records. A document that gives a parent sole legal and physical custody of a child is not enough to deny parental rights to the non-custodial parent.

Non-custodial parents of children will receive communications about the child and participate in student conferences with a teacher unless a court document specifically prohibits such contact. The non-custodial parent’s address information should be included on the registration/re-registration form.

Off-Campus ConductStudents may be disciplined for conduct off school grounds if such conduct is disruptive to the educational process, violates a policy of the school, or negatively impacts the school. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.501)

Photo /Video ReleaseStudents and parents will be asked to review and sign the policy pertaining to Internet and computer usage prior to the student being allowed to use the Internet. Please refer to the copy of the Use Agreement for Electronic Information Resources at the end of this handbook.


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The school reserves the right to use student pictures and videos in publications and on the school’s website. An individual student will never be identified. Please refer to the copy of the Website and Other Publications Photo Permission Guidelines at the end of this handbook.

Playground/RecessThe school playground facilities are for use during school hours only for students who attend St. Bernadette Catholic School. Playground facilities are not for use after-hours or by students who are not in attendance at St. Bernadette Catholic School. Students may not play unsupervised on any Saint Bernadette School playground facility.

Students in grades one through five will receive recess daily for 20 minutes and students in grades six through eight will receive 15 minutes daily. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy on Time Allotments). The classroom teachers monitor recess. Students may play various games on the playground. Games such as tag which require touching will not be tolerated due to the possibility of students being pushed and knocked down and resulting in an injury on the hard top playing surface. Students are provided with all equipment for recess (balls, jump ropes etc.). Students should not bring their own equipment to school.

Physical EducationThe goal of the physical education program at St. Bernadette Catholic School is to develop good exercise habits, to build knowledge of athletics and to develop a healthy sense of sportsmanship in students.

All students must participate in physical education, unless they are not dressed properly or they possess a doctor’s note. If there are medical limitations, the doctor’s note must make clear the physical limitations for non-participation. This note should be sent to the school nurse. All other reasons for non-participation in gym must be sent to the Principal in a written note.

Principal’s Office HoursThe principal’s office hours will be as follows:


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The principal is usually available during the school day. Parents may feel free to stop in or call for an appointment.

Religious EducationAll students, regardless of faith affiliation will participate in the religious education programs of St. Bernadette Catholic School. These students will attend prayer services and masses. They may not receive any sacraments.

Because parents have chosen to send their students to a Catholic school, they possess the responsibility, along with the school, for the child’s spiritual development. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend school masses, prayer services, and other religious services. The children’s’ faith development is central to the existence of the Catholic school and must be strongly encouraged through example and teaching.

Report Cards/Progress ReportsReport Cards: St. Bernadette Catholic School adheres to the report card guidelines issued by the Office of Catholic Schools, Archdiocese of Hartford. Report cards (Grades 1-8) will be issued four (4) times a year. The first report card will be distributed at the scheduled parent/teacher conferences. All other report cards will be sent home with the students. Teachers may request parent conferences as needed.

There are no Pre-Kindergarten report cards. The Pre-Kindergarten teacher will assess each student’s readiness for Kindergarten. The principal, teacher, and parent(s) will meet to discuss the possibility of retention. Pre-Kindergarten parents may contact the teacher throughout the year regarding their child’s progress. Kindergarten report cards are sent home three times during the school year. All report card dates are noted on the school calendar.

Students in grades Kindergarten – Grade Three (3) are evaluated on their academic progress and social development. When a student is failing a major subject for the report card, the teacher will contact the parent either in writing or by phone.

Progress Reports: Progress reports (Grades 1- 8) are sent home the first quarter and in the second, third and fourth quarters. Progress reports enable the teacher/parent to assess the academic/behavioral progress of the student. Teachers may send additional progress reports at anytime during the school year. Parents may request weekly progress reports in cases where the child is experiencing significant difficulty. The dates for progress reports appear on the school calendar.


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Returning to School After DismissalStudents are not permitted to return to the school building after 3:00 pm dismissal unless granted permission by the school office. Students who chose to return to school after 3:00pm dismissal face consequences.

Sacramental Program

The sacramental life of the children of the Catholic tradition is an important component of the religion program at Saint Bernadette School. Preparations for the sacrament of Reconciliation will take place in grade two. Students in grade three will prepare for and receive First Holy Communion. In accordance with the diocesan guidelines, candidates for First Holy Communion will receive the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to First Eucharist.

Parents are required to be active partners in the preparation of their children for these two sacraments. The sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist are only given to students baptized in the Roman Catholic tradition.

School CalendarThe school calendar is distributed to students on a monthly basis. This calendar includes all upcoming events and daily hot lunch menus. This calendar may also be accessed on our school website. (www.saintbernadette.org). The yearly calendar is distributed and posted to the website by the end of the current school year.

School Hours Daily Opening Procedures: The school day begins officially at 8:25 am each day with the ringing of the bell. Students are considered to be late as of 8:26 am The front door will be closed at this time. Late students require a tardy pass from the Main Office for admittance into class. Students should arrive at school between 8:10 a.m. (when supervision begins) and 8:25 a.m. Any student arriving prior to 8:10 a.m., without supervision, will be placed in the before-school program at the parents’ expense.


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Arriving By Bus:

The bus will drop off the students in the designated drop – off area. Students will proceed immediately to their classrooms. Students who arrive late because of a bus related problem will not be counted as tardy. Students should report to the bus stop 10 minutes prior to when the bus is expected to arrive.

Being Driven To School:

All cars will enter the school parking lot from Concord Street (back of building) and proceed to the side door near the front of the building. Cars will move forward until they reach the door where the students will disembark from their car and enter the school building using the side door. Use the gate located directly in front to exit the parking lot. A member of the school staff will be stationed at the door until the 8:25 bell rings. If your child arrives after 8:25 they will enter the building using the front door. Please have your child ring the bell at the front door.

Pre-K families will also use the Concord Street entrance and proceed to the Pre-K building where they will drop off their child. They will then enter the line of cars and proceed out of the parking lot using the front gate.

No student may be dropped off in the middle of traffic.

Dismissal Procedures: All students in grades K -8 will meet in the church hall at 2:55 for closing prayer. The front doors of the school will open at 3:00. All parents/guardians who are picking up their child/ren will report to the church hall. Your child/ren will be released to you by the teachers assigned. Promptly, exit the church hall with your child/ren through the side door which faces Burr Street.

All students who walk home will exit the church hall through the side door facing Burr Street. Students must use the appropriate crosswalks if they need to cross the street.

Pre-K students will be released from the Pre-K building at 2:45.

Parent Parking: Parents who are drivers are strongly encouraged to park on the school side of Burr St. and to arrive as close to dismissal time as possible. If this procedure is followed spaces will open up in quick rotation in front of the school. Please do not block driveways, or fire hydrants. Do not double park. Please make sure that once your child is dismissed that you exit the area promptly to avoid unnecessary traffic congestion. Parents may not walk through the rear lot of the school during arrival and dismissal. This constitutes a dangerous situation.


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Bus students will wait for the bus near the grade one classroom. Bus students will exit the building using the side door near the grade one classroom.

Students should know their plans for dismissal that day before coming to school.

Please make sure to notify the office before 12:00 pm if you need to change the child’s dismissal location.

Please make sure you send a note to the teacher and the office and make it clear to the student where he/she is to go at dismissal if the dismissal varies.

For the safety of the children, dogs are not allowed in the school yard before or after school.

School Office HoursSchool Office Hours: The school office opens at 8:00 am each day. The office remains open until 3:15 pm each day. If you need to reach a member of staff, please call or conduct business during these hours. You may call prior to 8:00 am on a school day to report your child’s absence. Please leave a voice message as to the absence and the reason.

School PropertyThe parent of a child who carelessly destroys or damages any furniture, equipment, buildings or anyone’s personal property will be obligated to pay the full amount of repairs and labor or replacement. The student may receive additional consequences.

Service ProjectsThe Student Council of Saint Bernadette arranges school service projects for the academic year. The service learning should follow the principles of Catholic social teaching.

Ordinarily, service programs in parish schools should be limited to after-school hours; peer tutoring or buddy-class projects may take place during school hours. (Archdiocesan of Hartford Policy 4.122)


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School RecordsFamily Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 – Statement of Policy:

This handbook will serves as annual notice to parents and eligible students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights Act (FERPA) of 1974.

Directory Information will be defined as Parent Name, Student Name, Student Grade, and Phone numbers. The school will not give out addresses.

Parent: “means a parent of a student and includes a natural parent a guardian or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or a guardian.” (FERPA)

Eligible Student: “ means a student who has reached 18 years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education. Any individual who has been in attendance at an educational agency or institution and regarding whom the agency or institution maintains education records.(FERPA)

Parents or eligible students may request in a letter or form a review of the records. The request will be honored within forty-five days from date of request. The records must be viewed in the presence of the principal and in the Principal’s Office.

There is no charge for the first copy of student records. All further requests are $10.00 per copy of the record.

Personally identifiable information/records will not be released from a file without the prior written consent of the parent or eligible student. The exceptions to this policy are listed below.

The school will maintain a record of reviews/releases for each student record and a parent or eligible student reserves a right to inspect that record.

Directory information for school purposes is considered to be the student’s name and grade.

A parent or eligible student may request a correction of a student’s record using the correction application form, which can be obtained, from the school office. The school reserves the right to refuse the correction. If the school refuses the correction, the parent or eligible student is entitled to a hearing. The hearing officer will be an impartial member of the Office of Catholic Schools and their decision will be final and binding.

If parents feel that the school has in anyway violated the FERPA, they are entitled to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education under section 99.64 of the FERPA.

Student Records/Information Release Regarding Student: St. Bernadette Catholic School complies fully with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the Buckley amendment, 1975. Student records are kept in a fireproof, locked cabinet, in the Main office. The following information regarding a student is kept in these records:


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Cumulative Records: Name, address, date of birth of student, name of parent (s)/guardian (s), address, telephone number, academic work and level of achievement, attendance. Standardized group test scores.

Special Education Records: Speech, language and hearing reports; psychological reports, social work reports, psychiatric reports, planning and placement team records, other reports related to special education evaluation. (These may also be obtained from the Office of Pupil Services for the school district in which the student resides.

Health Records: Immunization records, physical examination records, health data. (These records are kept in a locked, fireproof cabinet in the Nurse’s Office. These records also may be obtained from the Director of Nursing for the town/city in which the child resides.)

Extra-Confidential Records: Students with HIV or AIDS, psychiatric evaluations, reports to the Department of Children and Youth Services.

Only the contents of the official records i.e. academic transcripts, academic testing, health records, and informational sheet will be released to a new school unless otherwise directed by the parent/guardian.

Requests for records other than from parents will not be honored unless the parents have given express written permission to the school to release the records. In the case where there is a separation/divorce and joint custody exists, then both parents will need to give permission for record release.

We request at least twenty-four (24) hr. notice prior to release or review of the records. All requests must be in writing.

The following are exceptions to this rule:

School officials with a legitimate educational interest in the records: a person employed by the Archdiocese as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, teacher aide, administrative assistant, secretary or clerk.

A person employed by or under contract to the school to perform a special task (e.g. attorney, auditor, or medical consultant)

Legitimate educational interest is defined as: a person performing a task or responsibility that is specified in his or her job description, or contract agreement, performing a task related to the student’s education, performing a task related to the discipline of the student, providing a service or benefit to the student and or the student’s family, including but not limited to, health care, parent effectiveness training and homebound instruction.

To officials of another school, school system or institution of post-secondary education in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.


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To authorized officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General of the United States, the State of Connecticut school authorities and the local school district authorities.

To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (See section on release of “Production of Student Records in Connection with Court Proceedings.”

Access to Records by Non-Custodial Parent: This statute provides a non-custodial parent of a minor child with access to a child’s academic record unless a court has forbidden access. (Connecticut General Statutes, Section 46b-56)

Any custodial parent that possess a court document refusing a non-custodial parent access to the child or academic records should send the school a copy of said document forbidding this access. The document must possess explicit language forbidding parental access to records. A document that gives a parent sole legal and physical custody of a child is not enough to deny parental rights to the non-custodial parent.

Non-custodial parents of children will receive communications about the child and participate in student conferences with a teacher unless a court document specifically prohibits such contact. The non-custodial parent’s address information should be included on the registration/re-registration form.

Court Proceedings and Student Records: This statute permits a public or private school served with a subpoena regarding the production of school or student records to deliver such records or a copy thereof to the court clerk. Such records, if not otherwise inadmissible, must be admitted in evidence without preliminary testimony upon the certification in affidavit form of the person in charge of the records that the records or copies are the originals of the copies thereof. (School officials will no longer be required to testify in court that school or student records or copies are the originals or copies thereof.)

The statute specifies the amount of advance notice required for service of a subpoena upon a public or private school for production of school records. A subpoena must be served at least eighteen (18) hours before the requested school records are required to be produced, or, in the alternative, a school must receive written notice of an intent to serve a subpoena at least eighteen (18) hours before the time the records must be produced. (Connecticut General Statutes, Section 10-15b)

School Personnel and Court Proceedings: Absent a subpoena, a teacher/staff member has no affirmative duty to voluntarily appear at trial in custody proceeding. While he/she has a professional duty to discuss all aspects of the child’s educational progress with the parents, she/he has no duty or obligation to speak with the attorneys’


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representing the parents in a divorce/custody proceeding. He/she may have a duty to discuss the case with a guardian or legal counsel appointed by the court to represent the child.

Upon the receipt of a subpoena, the school’s counsel will be contacted to verify its validity. If properly executed and served, the teacher/staff member is obligated by law to obey the subpoena by appearing at court on the date and at the time stated. If the teacher/staff member’s appearance in court is cancelled they will require official notification from the court as to their status as a witness.

Student/Parent Directory Saint Bernadette offers a student/ parent directory of home phone numbers and e-mail addresses. If you prefer not to be included in this document please fill out the form in the back of this book.

TardinessAs it is detrimental to the child’s/children’s education, we ask that parents make every effort to have their children arrive at school and on time. PLEASE NOTE THAT IN ALL CASES TARDIES ARE ALWAYS INDICATED ON THE ATTENDANCE RECORD OF THE CHILD (except when school buses are delayed). If a student is excessively tardy to school, it will be referred to the civil authorities for action. Tardiness is considered to be negligence on the part of the parent and the case may be referred to the Department of Children and Youth Services.

Technology ConcernsBlogs/Virtual Reality Sites

Engagement in online blogs or postings, such as, but not limited to, MySpace.com®, Xanga®, Friendster®, Facebook®, YouTube®, etc., shall result in disciplinary actions, including expulsion, if the content of the student’s blogs or postings includes defamatory comments regarding the school, a person’s dignity, bullying, harassment, threats, or other inappropriate comments that are contradictory to Catholic teaching. (Archdiocese Policy 5.510)

Cell Phones/SextingStudents shall not possess or use remotely activated paging devices while they are in school. The school principal may grant written permission for such possession and use of a paging device by a student if the student or the student’s parent/guardian establishes to the satisfaction of the principal that an extraordinary circumstance exists which


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necessitates the possession and use of the device. Any cellular phone use, including text messaging, during the school day is prohibited. Homeroom teachers will collect cell phones from all students at the beginning of the day. Cell phones will be returned to students at the end of the day.

The use of camera phones to take pictures in restrooms and locker rooms at any time is prohibited.

Any cellular phone use, including text messaging, or use of camera phones during a test shall be considered and treated as cheating. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.509)

Sexting which is the act of sending sexually explicit messages or photographs, primarily between mobile phones will not be tolerated. Students who are caught sexting will be suspended or expelled from the school.

TelephoneChildren are not allowed to make telephone calls or receive telephone calls during the day. Only emergency calls are allowed. Phone calls for forgotten lunches or materials will not be allowed. Children remaining after school for additional study help or extra-curricular activities are to make transportation arrangements with their parents prior to the school day. Written permission must be sent to the school if there are changes from a student’s regular dismissal routine. Children will not be allowed to telephone parents. Phone calls will be allowed in an emergency only at the discretion of the Principal or the secretary. Use of cell phones during school hours is not allowed. All cell phones must be left with the homeroom teacher and will be returned to the student at the end of the day.

TestingProgram for Student Requiring Resource Services: If a student is diagnosed with a learning disorder and is under a mandate from their public school district to receive services. These students will receive additional services from the resource teacher based on their assessed need. Prior to the request of a Placement and Planning Team (PPT), the Resource Team from St. Bernadette will evaluate the child’s learning challenges. If the Team feels a PPT is necessary then the parent will be contacted to attend the appropriate assessment. Parents who choose not to pursue a Team’s recommendations regarding their child’s education will be required to have a conference with the Principal to discuss their concerns.

Students who are tested and then mandated by the local public school authority to receive special services will be placed on a Non-Public Service Plan (NPSP). St.


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Bernadette must comply with and follow the Non-Public Service Plan proposed by the local educational authority PPT Team. Students who are classified as learning disabled under P.L. 94-142 or Section 504 will receive services from their local educational authority via that school district’s method of delivery. The principal will determine the length of time for additional services provided by St. Bernadette Catholic School. St. Bernadette Catholic School reserves the right to dismiss students from the school when the school is no longer able to meet the needs of the child. This includes but is not limited to academic, social and special education needs.

Iowa Achievement Tests (Grades 2 – 7)

A standardized achievement test will be given each year in accordance with Archdiocesan policies. Students will, at a predetermined time each year, take the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. Results of the testing are made available to parents using reports from Riverside Publishing.

Toys and Valuables Students, not the school, are responsible for their valuables while they are in school. Students should keep items of value with the teacher or in their book bag. Students should not bring the following items to school:

Toys, Dolls, Stuffed animals, etc. Large sums of money Music boxes/personal headsets/tape recorders Handheld video games Computer software Beepers/Cell Phones Cameras Pets Expensive valuables/irreplaceable goods. Athletic Equipment If the student brings in an item for “show and tell” it should be kept in the classroom or kept by the teacher.

Transfer StudentsThere is no right to transfer into another Catholic school in the Archdiocese, and each potential transfer student shall be subject to the same standards and qualifications as would any child seeking admission to a Catholic school.


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Ordinarily, a child shall not be accepted from another Catholic school unless financial responsibilities in the previous school/parish have been satisfied, or the parents have signed an agreement to meet these responsibilities. In difficult cases, the pastor of a school or the principal is asked to dialogue, with special care taken for the general good and spiritual welfare of both the student and the family. The decision of the pastor or principal shall be final.

If a student transfers to another school, the officials of the receiving school have a “legitimate educational interest,” and the student's records shall be transferred upon request of the receiving school.

Upon the written request of a receiving school, the student records shall be transferred to the receiving school with or without parental consent. If no consent is provided, the school shall notify the parents/guardians that the records are being sent.

When a student transfers to another school, the official Archdiocesan transfer form, a duplicate of the student’s cumulative record card, and the original health card shall be sent to the proper official of the receiving school.

The transfer of a student from one Catholic school to another within the Archdiocese can occur only after consultation between the principals of the two schools involved. The principal of the sending school cannot discuss the student without an authorization signed by the parents/guardians. The principal of the potential receiving school should obtain written authorization from the parents/guardians to speak to the sending school principal as a pre-condition to consideration for admission.

Placement of students transferring from non-accredited schools, home schooling, public, or other state-approved, non-public schools is the decision of the principal, based on testing, observation, and other assessments. This decision is made if it is deemed in the best interest of the student and the placement is acceptable both to parents/guardians and the principal.

School records and report cards shall not be withheld from students as a disciplinary measure for non-payment of tuition if all academic requirements have been completed.

If final or quarterly grades are completed, they must be recorded on the transcript and/or quarterly report and the parent/student is entitled to a copy of the transcript and/or quarterly report. Thus, quarterly reports or transcripts are not to be withheld if, in fact, grades are completed.


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Students whose tuition is not current by the end of a school year shall be denied admission for the next school year unless other tuition payment arrangements have been made with the pastor.

A pastor who has made a decision to allow a student to continue his/her studies in the second semester, regardless of any outstanding tuition payment(s) due by the parents at year-end, shall allow the student to participate in the graduation exercise. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 5.405)

TutoringStudents are encouraged to seek extra-help from their teachers when it is needed. It is the student or parent’s responsibility to seek the extra help from the teacher at a time that is mutually acceptable.

Teachers are not permitted to tutor their own pupils in any subject for profit. Class time may not be used for any private lessons or practices. (Archdiocese of Hartford Policy 3.128)

Uniforms GuidelinesUniforms must be purchased from: Dennis Uniforms 500 Boston Post Road, Orange, Connecticut 06477Phone (203) 795-5457 * (800) 854-6951 * Fax (203) 795-5471Online: www.dennisuniform.comSchool Uniform Code: OR00SB

The only exception to this rule is shoes. Uniforms are worn daily. The complete gym uniform is to be worn on the day of P.E. The principal determines the uniform.

Girls’ and Boys’ K – 8 School UniformGirls’ Uniform Grades K – 8

Khaki or school plaid skort or Khaki pants or shorts Navy blue polo shirt long or short sleeve with school emblem Optional navy fleece vest with school emblem Navy blue or beige knee socks or beige or white ankle socks Navy Blue Tights Brown or Black shoes

Boys’ Uniform K – 862


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http://www.dennisuniform.com/


Khaki pants or shorts. NO CARGO SHORTS Navy blue polo shirt long or short sleeve with school emblem Optional navy fleece vest with school emblem Beige ankle socks Brown or black shoes Brown or black belt grades 3 - 8

Pre-K 3 and 4 Uniform: Royal blue T- shirt and/or sweatshirt with school emblem Royal blue sweatpants or nylon mini mesh shorts White ankle socks and sneakers

Physical Education Uniform K - 8 Royal blue T-Shirt and/or Sweatshirt with school emblem Royal blue sweatpants or nylon mini mesh shorts with school insignia White ankle socks and sneakers

Uniform and Dress Code PolicyDress Down Days: The following applies to dress down days when assigned:

No T-shirts with any objectionable insignias or pictures. The principal reserves the right to determine what is objectionable. No short tees with skin showing.

Jeans may be worn however, they must fit the child appropriately – no hip huggers or low riders and no ripped jeans.

Shoes with high or unusual heels, clogs, sandals and flip flops, are not permitted as they present a tripping hazard.

If an outfit is deemed inappropriate by the principal the parent will be contacted and instructed to bring a change of clothes for the student or the student may be dismissed to the parent.

Hairstyles: Boys hair is expected to be neat and clean at all times. Boys’ hair should be trimmed above the collar. No beards, mustaches, or tails are allowed. Fad hairstyles and unnatural colors are not allowed for boys or girls. Mushroom, bowl, surfer, Mohawk cuts are not allowed. Hairstyles with designs shaved in are not allowed. Girls’ hair should be of a length that is neat and safe. Hair coloring is not permitted. Sparkle gel or sparkle spray is not permitted. Hair feathers or extensions are not permitted. Girls should not wear headbands with flowers or other ornate objects.


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If a student violates this policy he/she will receive a detention and a note will be sent to the parents regarding the correction of the hairstyle. When hairstyles are especially outrageous, the principal may send a student home.

Jewelry: Boys and girls may wear functional watches. Girls may wear small stud or small hoop earrings (one pair, one per ear only). Earrings may only be worn on the ear lobe. Larger hoops are a hazard during gym or other physical activities. Boys may not wear earrings to school. Body piercing is not permitted. A small crucifix, cross, or religious medal may be worn under the uniform shirt. These should not be worn with the gym uniform because they may present a choking hazard. Jewelry other than what is outlined above may not be worn. Expensive or irreplaceable watches, earrings or necklaces should not be worn to school. The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged jewelry.

Nail Polish/Nails: Girls may not wear any polish. Nails must be trimmed to a reasonable length. Girls may not wear acrylic nails or fake nails of any kind.

Make-Up: Girls may not wear make-up to school. This includes lipstick, color or sparkle lip gloss, mascara, facial make-up, and eyeliner. Tattoos of any kind are not permitted.

Shoes: Students should wear brown or black shoes with no designs or stripes. The sole of the shoe should be non marking. Shoes that have the appearance of an athletic shoe are not permitted. No boots or work boots either ankle high or other may be worn. Heels above one inch or platform shoes are not allowed. Black soled sneakers are not permitted. Sneakers that have lights or sounds are not permitted. Sneakers may be worn by Pre-K students throughout the year. Kindergarten through grade eight students may only wear sneakers on designated gym days. Shoes or sneakers in unusual colors are not permitted.

Socks: Low socks or athletic socks that slip into the shoe may not be worn.

Belts: Boys’ belts should be brown or black and be of the child’s appropriate belt size.

Hats: Students may wear hats to school, but not in the building.

Shirts: Must be long enough to tuck into the skort or pants. They may not be worn over the top of the skort or pants. Boys must also keep the shirt tucked into the pants.


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Skorts: Girls’ skorts may not be shorter than two inches above the middle of the knee. Please buy a skort that has enough of a hemline to let down if there is a growth spurt.

Visitors

All visitors must sign in at the school office and receive a visitors badge to be worn on the shirt before going to any school facility or classroom. When they depart, visitors need to sign out of the school and return the badge to the school secretary. Teachers and staff members reserve the right to question any person present in the school building. Student or non-student visitors are not allowed during the school day except with permission of the principal for the purpose of enrollment.

VolunteersParent volunteers are required per your contract(15 hours per family). If the maximum of 15 hours is not obtained and/or committed to a fundraising effort(s) 45 school days prior to the last day of school a $50.00 fee will be assessed and is payable by May 1st of each year. Parents may work in a variety of capacities. Parents involved in the trades may volunteer their time to help with various maintenance projects. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the school office. You will need to be fingerprinted if you work on a regular basis with children. The fingerprints are sent to OCS for processing. This policy is for the children’s protection. All employees and volunteers are subject to background checks.

Background Checks

Every volunteer serving in a position where he/she may have regular contact with children or young people must undergo a background check, which shall include a check of criminal convictions. No individual shall be permitted to volunteer in any position where there may be regular contact with children or young people without undergoing this background check. The cost for a background check is $18.50. The background check form must be completed and a check made out to St. Bernadette School for $18.50 must accompany the paperwork. This process is necessary for parents or guardians who wish to be chaperones on field trips.

Virtus Training


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Virtus Training must be conducted for volunteers who have regular contact with students. The coordinator for volunteers, if any, may supervise volunteers at the discretion of the principal, and may be delegated as their immediate supervisor.

Volunteers cooperate with the principal in providing a positive educational climate for the student. Volunteers are directly accountable to the principal. Volunteers agree to abide by established policies and procedures of the Archdiocese. Volunteers shall complete the approved Office of Catholic Schools application. The administration reserves the right to accept or decline any offer of volunteer service. (Archdiocese Policy 1.215)

WalkersStudents who are walkers should be designated as such by parents in writing to the school office. Please state in the note whether this is a daily routine or occasionally.

Students who are younger than grade five should not walk alone. Students are encouraged to walk in groups.

All walkers must cross at the crosswalk on Townsend Avenue and Burr Street.

Parents who walk young children to school will enter the building same way as other walkers and depart the same way.

Weather Emergencies Inclement Weather Policy/School Closing/Delayed Openings:

St. Bernadette Catholic School follows the inclement weather decision of New Haven Public Schools (the only exception being our Pre-Kindergarten program). On days when inclement weather occurs please listen to WTNH News Channel 8 or check the website wtnh.com. All announcements relating to late openings or closings will be posted on this station.

Periodically it will be necessary to dismiss students early. Early release will take place at 12:30 p.m. and follow regular dismissal procedures. Please check the wtnh.com website or listen to WTNH News Channel 8 for early release notices. Extended day services will be cancelled if there is an early release.


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On days when school is delayed, the before school program will begin one hour prior to the announced start of school that day.

Written Work/Teacher ConfidentialityAny school staff member does not possess special rights regarding student confidences in written or verbal form. If a student comment involves life, health or safety the content of the conversation will be communicated to the parents and/or the appropriate public authorities. If life, health and safety are not mentioned student confidences will be kept.

Right to Amend:

St. Bernadette reserves the right to amend this handbook at any time. Each change will be noted and communicated to parents via email.

Saint Bernadette School67


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Use Agreement for Electronic Information Resources

Each student who utilizes the school’s computer system and other school electronic devices will be instructed in the proper use of the network, and the student and his/her parent or guardian must read and sign this use agreement before the student will be allowed to use the school’s computer system and electronic information resources.

The use of the school’s computer system and electronic information resources must be in support of education and research, consistent with the educational objectives of the school. Students using the school’s network or computing recourses must comply with the appropriate rules for that network or resource.

I agree to follow the rules in all of my work with St. Bernadette School’s computers while attending St. Bernadette School:

1. I will not use the computer resources for non-academic purposes. I will not waste or take supplies such as paper, printer cartridges, and discs that are provided by the school. I will keep my computer work area clean and will not eat or drink in the computer lab.

2. 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 will not copy, change, read, or use files from another user without prior permission from that user. I will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the school’s system programs for computer equipment.

4. I will not do anything that may disrupt or damage the school’s computer system or electronic resources. I will not bring in, or allow access to materials or websites that I believe may contain viruses.

5. I will not use the school’s computer systems and electronic resources to disturb or harass other computer users or use inappropriate language in my communications. I will not use obscene, lewd, vulgar, inflammatory, threatening or disrespectful language when using the school’s computer systems and electronic resources. I will not harass or bully other individuals. I will not use the school’s systems to spread falsehoods or defamatory statements.

6. I will promptly disclose to my teacher or other school official any messages I receive or view which I feel are inappropriate or which make me feel uncomfortable.

7. I will not agree to meet anyone that I have met online without my parents’ permission.8. I will not use the school’s computer system or electronic resources to engage in any illegal act.9. 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 limitations on the computer’s hard drive.

10. I will not use bulletin boards, chat rooms, or social networks for personal use when using St. Bernadette School’s computers.

11. I will not reveal my personal information, home address, or personal phone number or those of students, teachers, 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 product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

12. I understand that I have no expectation of privacy in my use of school computers. I understand that school officials may search and examine my use of school computers at any time, and without notice.

13. Parents must realize that their child may encounter material on a network/bulletin board that they do not consider appropriate (i.e., vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.) The student is responsible for not pursuing material that could be considered offensive.


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14. 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 inappropriate 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. Violations of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.

Student Signature: Date:

As parent/legal guardian of the student signing above, I grant permission for my child to access computer service networks such as electronic mail and the Internet. I have read and agree to the rules and code of ethics. I understand that some materials found on the Internet may be objectionable; therefore, I agree to accept responsibility for guiding my child and conveying to him/her the appropriate standards for selecting, sharing, and/or exploring information and media. I agree to hold harmless St. Bernadette School and employees of the school system for any misuse of access to the computer services networks that my child commits. I understand that once signed this agreement is legally binding on me.

Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:

Parent/Guardian Name: ____________

(Please print)

Street Address: __________________

Home Telephone: _______ Work Telephone: Cell Phone:___________

Complete and return to your child’s school.


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Saint Bernadette Catholic School

20 Burr Street · New Haven, CT 06512

203-469-2271 · Fax 203-469-4615

saintbernadette.orgWebsite and Other Publications

Photo Permission Guidelines

Dear Parent or Guardian,

Saint Bernadette School hosts a Website at: www.saintbernadette.org. Occasionally we wish to post a picture of a particular school activity such as a science project, a play, artwork, sporting event, or other activity. This may involve posting a picture showing a student, a group of students, or a sample of a student’s work. We may also use these photos in brochures, posters, and various other means of publication.

If students’ pictures or works are used:

Only first names shall be used if referencing student pictures or scanned classroom work. Personal information will not be published. Documents will not include information that indicates the physical location of any student at a given time other than

attendance at a particular school or participation in an activity.Before posting pictures of students or samples of student work, we require that the parent(s)/guardian(s) sign the permission form below. We will keep this signed form on file for this school year.

Photo Permission Form

I grant St. Bernadette School permission to use photo images of my son/daughter or a sample of his/her work such as a poem, story, artwork, etc. on St. Bernadette School website, or in other print or electronic media.

Please check the blanks below to indicate which permission(s) you grant and then sign and date as indicated.

____ St. Bernadette School has permission to post samples of my son/daughter’s schoolwork in its media.

____ St. Bernadette School has permission to post a picture of my son/daughter in its media.

I do not grant St. Bernadette School permission to use photo images of my son/daughter or a sample of his/her work such as a poem, story, artwork, etc. on St. Bernadette School website, or in other print or electronic media.

Print Name of Student Print

Print Name of Parent(s)/Guardian(s)

Signature of Parent(s)/or Guardian(s) Date


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NOT E: This agreement will be in effect as of the date signed and may be revoked at any time by contacting your son’s or daughter’s school principal.

Saint Bernadette Catholic School

20 Burr Street · New Haven, CT 06512

203-469-2271 · Fax 203-469-4615

saintbernadette.orgFIELD TRIP PERMISSION AND WAIVER

PARENTAL/GUARDIAN CONSENT FORM AND LIABILITY WAIVER

Participant’s Name

Parent/Guardian’s Name

Home Address

Home Phone Business Phone

Cell Phone

I_____________________________________________________________ (parent/guardian name) request

that my child _____________________________________________be included in the field trip and I grant

permission for him/her to participate in the activity identified below that requires transportation to a location away from the school/parish site. A brief description of the activity follows:

Type of event

Destination of event


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Mode of transportation to and from event

Date(s) of event

Expected Time of Departure Expected Time of Return

As parent and/or legal guardian, I remain legally responsible for any actions taken by the above named minor (“participant”).

I agree to be responsible for any damages or costs incurred by or on behalf of my child of any nature arising from or in connection with my child attending the event, or in connection with any illness or injury or cost of medical treatment in connection therewith.

I hereby release and discharge St. Bernadette Parish, the Hartford Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation ( the Archdiocese of Hartford,) its/their officers, directors, agents, employees, chaperones, volunteers, successors, assigns and heirs, from any and all liabilities, suits, claims, demands, actions or damages (including attorney’s fees) incurred by me or by my child or are in any way related to or arising out of participation in the above event, including, without limitation, all claims for property damage, personal injuries or wrongful death, including any claims which allege negligent acts or omissions of or by St. Bernadette Parish the Hartford Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation ( the Archdiocese of Hartford), its/their officers, directors, agents, employees, chaperones, volunteers, successors, assigns and heirs.

I understand that by signing this form I am releasing St. Bernadette Parish, the Hartford Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation ( the Archdiocese of Hartford,) its/ their officers, directors, agents, employees, chaperones, volunteers, successors, assigns and heirs.

Should I choose not to sign this form, I recognize that my child will not be able to participate in the above event. If the event takes place on a school day, my child instead will attend school at and will participate in the school program of that day.

Signature: Date:

MEDICAL MATTERS: I hereby warrant that to the best of my knowledge, my child is in good health, and I assume all responsibility for the health of my child, and for the cost and expense of any medical treatment should such become necessary while my child is participating in the field trip.

I hereby give my consent, in the event of injury or illness, for emergency medical treatment, hospitalization or other medical treatment as may be necessary for the welfare of my child by a physician, qualified nurse and/or hospital or other health care facility while my child is participating in the field trip. Further, I hereby release and discharge St.


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Bernadette Parish, the Hartford Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation ( the Archdiocese of Hartford,) its/ their officers, directors, agents, employees, chaperones, volunteers, successors, assigns and heirs, from any and all liability arising out of such medical treatment.

The field trip supervisor should be aware of the following special medical conditions of my child: (Describe condition with particularity, including any warning signs, medications, or special instructions.)

Allergic reactions Asthma Diabetes Medically prescribed diet Medications that may need to be taken on an emergency or routine basis while my child is at the site Physical limitations Other conditions

Type of insurance – Please check _____ Blue Cross/CMS ______ Connecticare ______ Other

Membership # ______________________________________

Name of child’s regular physician_______________________

Telephone # ( ) ______________________________

Emergency contact name: _________________________________________

Home phone: _______________________________________

Business phone: _____________________________________

Cell phone: _________________________________________

Signature: ____________________________________ Date: _________________________

Signature: Date:


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Parent Directory FormPlease indicate your interest in being listed on the school directory by completing the attached form. The directory will include student name, grade, home phone number, and parent email address.

_______ I would like to have my child’s name included on the school directory.

_______ I would not like to have my child’s name included on the school directory.

Please detach this form from the handbook and return to the school office by September 13, 2013.


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Parent/Student Signature Page

I have read the 2014 - 2015 Parent/Student Hand.0book and agree to follow the school policies and procedures as stated.Please return this form to the school office by Friday, September 12, 2014.

Family Name ______________________________________________ (Please Print)

___________________________ ________________________(Parent Signature) (Date)

___________________________ ________________________(Parent Signature) (Date)

___________________________ _________________________(Student Signature) (Date)

___________________________ __________________________(Student Signature) (Date)

___________________________ __________________________(Student Signature) (Date)


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