SAINT THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL€¦ · copy of the Saint Thomas More Catholic School Student...

2

SAINT THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Student Handbook 2017-2018

• I/We have been issued a copy of the Saint Thomas More Catholic School Student

Handbook.

• I/We understand that I/we are responsible for the information presented in this handbook.

• I/We understand that the continued enrollment of the student is subject to the student observing all school rules as set out in the school handbook including but not limited to general behavior, academic performance and attendance.

• I/We acknowledge that the school governs the conduct of the student when on the school property, during the aftercare program, participating in school activities off of the school property or any school event.

• Continued enrollment, in any given school year and re-‐enrollment in any subsequent school year, is subject to the parents’/guardians’ continued support of the mission of the school as documented in the school handbook and the maintenance of a demonstrably effective and supportive relationship between the school and the parents/guardians. Re-‐enrollment in any subsequent year is subject to mutual agreement. The student, the parents, or the school administration, either with or without cause, may withhold that agreement.

• I/We understand that students may appear in photographs, publications, films,

interviews, web page, or videotapes made in conjunction with these and other school-‐sponsored activities. These photographs or interviews may appear in school, area or national media. I give my consent for my child(ren) to appear in any publication, film, interview, web page, or videotape for St. Thomas More School.

• I hereby waive and release any claim against St. Thomas More School and the Archdiocese of Atlanta from any responsibility or liability for any claims arising from the publication or reproduction of any photographs, films, interviews, web page or videotapes.

Please complete & sign this form for each child attending STM.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– Parent/Guardian Signature Date ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-‐-‐––––––––––––––––––––– Student’s Name ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-‐-‐––––––––––––––––––––– Student’s Signature

This handbook may be amended by the school administration at any time during the year

through the vehicle of two announcements in the More News. PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE

BY AUGUST 21, 2017

SAINT THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Student Handbook 2017-2018

630 West Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, Georgia 30030 Phone (404) 373-8456

Fax (404) 377-8554 www.stmga.org

Saint Thomas More School shall admit students of any race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin to all the rights and privileges, programs, and activities generally

accorded or made available to students at the corporations school. St. Thomas More School shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and

loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

4

Mission Statement

St. Thomas More Catholic School is a joyful learning community reaching out to the world, as the hands of Christ.

Mission Statement for the Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Atlanta

The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Atlanta serve a vital role in the

educational ministry of the Church. Our schools are committed to providing quality education in an environment of spiritual, intellectual, and moral

formation in accordance with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

St. Thomas More School is in full compliance with all archdiocesan requirements as stated in the Policy Manual for Catholic Schools. This manual is available for parent review. Please see the principal if you would like to review the manual. The purpose of this handbook is to provide a good working relationship between all of us who are involved in your child’s education. We have tried to address the issues and

concerns that usually arise. We are, however, very much aware that some issues and concerns may have escaped us.

We are also aware that other issues and concerns may not have been addressed to the fullest detail. In all such cases, it is understood that the principal, after

consultation with the School Administrative Team, will have the final decision.

5

Topics of Interest

PLEASE NOTE: This is not the entire table of contents for the Handbook. You are responsible for reading and understanding this handbook in its entirety. For your convenience, we have noted, here, those topics of major concern and interest. STM STUDENT HANDBOOK: Faculty page 6-‐9 Tutoring page 10 Admissions page 10-‐12 Attendance page 13-‐14 Tuition, FACTS & Fees page 14-‐16 Extended Care, Lunch Ordering page 17-‐18 Annual Fund page 19 Communication with School, Visitors page 20-‐23 School Policies page 23-‐29 Social Media page 24 Use of School Name, Logos or Mottos page 25 Code of Conduct, Discipline page 29-‐40 Celebrations & Parent Volunteering page 40-‐41 Uniform Guidelines page 42-‐48 Academic Responsibility & Homework page 48-‐52 Middle School Retest Policy page 51 Absences/Make-‐Up Work Policy page 52-‐55 Math Placement Requirements for Pre-‐Algebra and Algebra Courses page 55-‐56 Computer & Internet Acceptable Use Policy page 58-‐61 IPAD Acceptable Use Policy page 61-‐71 Student Recognition page 71-‐74 Traffic Plan Arrival & Dismissal page 74-‐77 Additional Forms page 78

6

2017-‐2018 ST. THOMAS MORE FACULTY AND STAFF

NAME POSITION E-‐MAIL ADDRESS -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ ADMINISTRATION & OFFICE STAFF -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ Jerry Raymond Principal [email protected] Yvette McNett Assistant Principal [email protected] Brian Christopherson Director of Faith Formation [email protected] Karyl Davis Financial Administration [email protected] Kim Kissell Admin. Assistant [email protected] Eileen Maron Admissions Director [email protected] Ansley Murphey Advancement Director [email protected] Patty Finley School Nurse [email protected] Diane Burns Technology Coordinator [email protected] -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ ADMINISTRATION TEAM SERVING WITH THE PRINCIPAL -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐

Margaret Becsi [email protected] Diane Burns [email protected] Brian Christopherson [email protected] Ginny Henry [email protected] Brittany Kelley [email protected] Kim Kissell [email protected] Apryl Koch [email protected] Yvette McNett [email protected] Debra Moody [email protected] Andy Scantlebury [email protected] -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ SPECIALISTS & RESOURCE TEACHERS -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ Laura Ayala Media Specialist [email protected] Ian Labreck Band Teacher [email protected] Jon Paul Craciun P.E. Teacher [email protected] Brittany Kelley School Counselor [email protected] Romana Khalaf Resource Teacher [email protected] Heather Kloer Computer Teacher [email protected] Apryl Koch Curriculum Coordinator/Resource [email protected] Cate Miller Art Teacher [email protected] David King Music Teacher [email protected] Mary Nicolatos Resource Teacher [email protected] Gigi O'Shea Health Teacher [email protected] Chad Paetznick Band Teacher [email protected]

7

Jeff Peterson P.E. Teacher [email protected] Connie Stierlen Spanish Teacher [email protected] Judy Trotochaud Resource Teacher [email protected]

2017-‐2018 ST. THOMAS MORE FACULTY AND STAFF -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ STAFF -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ Judy Chadwick Aftercare Director [email protected] Todd Hines Facilities Manager [email protected] Yemane Ghidey Plant Operations -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ TEACHERS -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ PRIMARY Emily Bacon Kindergarten [email protected] Heather Upton Kindergarten [email protected] Claire Anderson 1st Grade [email protected] Melissa Woodson 1st Grade [email protected] Margaret Becsi 2nd Grade [email protected] Elizabeth Elliott 2nd Grade [email protected] INTERMEDIATE Cameron Hicks 3rd Grade [email protected] Beth Todd 3rd Grade [email protected] Kathy Merritt 4th Grade [email protected] Melody Summers 4th Grade [email protected] Theresa Christopherson 5th Grade [email protected] Debra Moody 5th Grade [email protected] MIDDLE SCHOOL Emily Anderson Middle School [email protected] Tim Beck Middle School [email protected] Brian Christopherson Middle School [email protected] Lena Hamilton Middle School [email protected] Ginny Henry Middle School [email protected] Beth Jones Middle School [email protected] Mary Jane Kettler Middle School [email protected] Peggy Saunders Middle School [email protected] Andy Scantlebury Middle School [email protected] -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ ASSISTANTS -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ BB Bangura [email protected] Federica Clemenceau [email protected] Debbie Gittens-‐Hans [email protected] Angie Kirkland [email protected] Cynthia Matullo [email protected]

8

Heather McElroy [email protected] Shirley Murray [email protected] Terri Tirella [email protected] Parent Teacher Organization (“PTO”) The PTO is a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the STM school community. The PTO’s purpose is to cooperate with the school administration and its policies which are determined by the Pastor, Principal and the STM School Advisory Council; provide programs appropriate for parent and student enrichment; provide a forum for parents and teachers to discuss school policies and activities; and support the school financially by means of fundraising activities. The PTO is open to all parents/guardians of children currently enrolled at the STM, any member of the faculty and school administration, as well as the clergy of STM Parish. Currently, membership dues or registration fees are not required. The PTO meets throughout the school year. All parents/guardians, faculty, staff and clergy are invited to attend the meetings. Officers for the 2017-18 School Year: President: Caren Cloud -‐ [email protected] Vice President: Sandy Capretta-‐[email protected] Secretary: Geri Wilson-‐[email protected] Treasurer: Liz Bucko -‐[email protected] Parliamentarian: Scarlett Walker -‐[email protected] The PTO provides fundraising and volunteer opportunities as well as family-‐focused events for the benefit of the entire school community. The PTO encourages parents/guardians to volunteer in one or more committees to make STM the best school for our children. Each STM family is responsible for volunteering at least 20 hours (More Love Hours) during the school year. Any volunteer time with the PTO and its committees counts toward the 20 hour family requirement. Committees The PTO manages several committees in support of the faculty, staff, students and families including Carpool Volunteers, Catholic Schools Week, Community Outreach, Black History Month, Family Connections, Hospitality, Lunch/Recess Volunteers, Office Volunteers, Parent Work Days, Read-‐a-‐thon, Room Parents, Safe Routes to School, Teacher Appreciation, Teacher Luncheons, Veterans’ Day, and Yearbook. From time to time, other committees may be determined when necessary. Fundraisers Our fundraising efforts provide funds for classroom supplies, curriculum enhancements and enrichment programs, technology upgrades, and faculty and staff professional development. For the 2017-‐2018 school year, the PTO will host two major fundraisers: Rock N’ Run which will be held in September and The Gala/ Auction which will be held

9

in March. Additional fundraisers include Basketball Concessions, Christmas Greenery, Spirit Wear, and Everyday Giving Fundraisers including Publix, Kroger and Box Tops for Education. For additional information regarding the PTO, its committees, activities, and calendar, please visit the STM school website at www.stmga.org.

History

In 1948 the Diocese of Savannah-‐Atlanta purchased land for a new parish on West Ponce de Leon Avenue in Decatur, Georgia. A convent, school, church and Rectory were constructed. Saint Thomas More opened on September 1, 1950 with approximately 140 students in grades 1 to 5. The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur staffed the school. Grades 6, 7, and 8 were added in successive years. June 2000 sadly saw the departure of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and closing of the Saint Thomas More convent. The convent was renovated to house parish offices, meeting space, and additional classrooms. As a parish school in the Archdiocese of Atlanta, Saint Thomas More is guided by rules, regulations and policies set by the archdiocese. On the local level, the Saint Thomas More School Advisory Council serves in an advisory capacity, and oversees the general direction of the school. Visitors are welcome at the Council meetings and communication is encouraged. The agenda for upcoming meetings and synopsis of the meeting’s discussion will be available on the website. If a visitor would like to address an issue, notification must be given in writing two weeks prior to the meeting in order to be put on the agenda. For more information about the St. Thomas More School Advisory Council, please contact the school office. St. Thomas More School is accredited through district-‐wide accreditation as defined by AdvancED (the parent company of SACS)

School Structure

Saint Thomas More serves children kindergarten through grade eight. To facilitate instructional and curriculum planning, the student body is grouped in three levels: Primary (K to grade 2), Intermediate (grades 3 to 5), Middle School (grades 6 to 8).

School Administrative Team

The School Administration Team is a site-‐based management team comprised of the principal, assistant principal, counselor, curriculum coordinator, and faculty and staff representatives. This team works cooperatively to help the school function smoothly, to assess current practices and to plan for school improvement.

10

Student Success Team

The Student Success Team, or SST, is a committee of school faculty and support personnel assigned to identify, plan, and recommend alternative instruction, organizational, or behavioral strategies for a given student as a first step in trying to meet the student’s needs. The SST meets when needed to review and consider students referred by instructional staff, parents, administrative or support staff.

Tutoring

Teachers are prohibited from tutoring her/his own students, or upcoming students, for remuneration. Independent tutors may not tutor on campus during regular school hours. Independent tutors must have prior permission from the principal or assistant principal to tutor on campus after school hours. Independent tutors must provide a certificate of liability insurance prior to beginning tutoring services. Middle School Academic Tutorials The purpose of Academic Tutorials is to give students who want or need assistance in mastering lessons one-on-one or in a small group with teachers. It is NOT a study hall to complete homework or “hang out” until sport’s practices. Academic Tutorials are by appointment only or previously invited by the teacher.

1. Academic Tutorials will be available for students for school year 2016/2017 beginning the 3rd week in August.

2. Academic Tutorials time will be designated by the teacher, occurring at a. 3:25 PM - 4:10 PM with dismissal and prompt pick up no later than

4:15 PM. OR b. 7:20 AM – 7:45 AM

3. Students may be picked up earlier than 4:10 if a parent comes to the classroom to get them.

4. Attendance must be prearranged by the teacher through the student. It is the student’s responsibility to know when tutorials are offered, projects are due, and make-up work needs to be completed.

5. If a student is participating in a review or needs to work on a group project, that student must make arrangements with the teacher and parent prior to the day.

6. If a student is absent, he/she must arrange with both the parent and teachers to attend a tutorial as soon as possible to make up any missed work.

Admission Policy

Saint Thomas More Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or national origin. Preference in admissions is given to the children of Saint Thomas More Parish, secondly to Catholic children from other parishes without schools, thirdly to siblings of non-‐Catholic students already enrolled in our school, and lastly to non-‐Catholic children. For admission to the kindergarten program, a student must reach his/her fifth

11

birthday on or by September 1st of the year in which the child is enrolling. For admission to the first grade program, a student must reach his/her sixth birthday on or by September 1st of the year in which the child is enrolling. Local transfer of students from any public, private or archdiocesan school into grade 8 is not generally considered. Students whose families have relocated into the Atlanta area may apply for admission into grade 8 at any Archdiocesan School. Admission to other grades, especially middle school, will be considered carefully on a case-‐by-‐case basis. All students are admitted on a probationary acceptance for the first semester of the school year.

Parish Verification

Catholic families are required to verify that they are active parishioners within their church. All Parish Verifications are due in the St. Thomas More School office no later than June 1st in order to receive the Catholic tuition rate for the upcoming school year. Failure to comply will result in a charge of the Non-‐Catholic Tuition rate per student for the school year. There will be no adjustments to the tuition rate after June 1st. Non-‐Catholic families are required to submit the appropriate form (obtained at registration/re-‐registration) verifying participation in their faith communities.

Withdrawals

Parents must complete a withdrawal form. All accounts must be paid to date (i.e., tuition, lunch program, Extended Care, and library fines). All textbooks and library books are to be returned. Once all these conditions are satisfied, official school transcripts can be released to other schools. No transcripts or records will be released directly to parents or students for the purpose of transfer. All conditions listed below must be satisfied before records can be released: • All library books and textbooks have been returned. • Tuition has been paid to date. • Lunch account has been paid to date. • Extended Care has been paid to date.

Re-‐enrollment / Re-‐registration

Re-‐registration Forms will be sent to each family presently enrolled in our school during the month of January. The forms must be completed and returned to the school office to secure a space for the following school year. A non-‐refundable re-‐registration fee of $100.00 per student MUST accompany the forms. Please refer to Fees for further explanation. Financial Aid Forms will be sent with re-‐registration forms. The applicant is responsible for submitting the necessary documentation and

12

financial aid forms to FACTS. Current families with new students and/or kindergarten students MUST complete the Admissions Process. New students and/or kindergarten students are not considered during the re-‐registration process. Please understand that continued enrollment of the student is subject to the student observing all school rules as set in the School Handbook including but not limited to general behavior, academic performance, and attendance. Continued enrollment, in any given school year and re-‐enrollment in any subsequent school year, is subject to the parents’/guardians’ continued support of the mission of the school as documented in the school handbook and the maintenance of a demonstrably effective and supportive relationship between the school and the parents/ guardians. Re-‐enrollment in any subsequent year is subject to mutual agreement. The student, the parents, or the school administration, either with or without cause, may withhold that agreement.

Teacher Requests

Teacher requests will be considered only in extenuating circumstances or for a valid educational reason. No guarantees are made. Teachers take a number of factors into consideration during the process of creating class lists. Requests must be submitted in writing to the principal by May 1st of the current school year.

Student Records and Confidentiality

All families who have students enrolled in St. Thomas More School are required to have a current Health Card on file in the School Clinic. Educational, behavioral and attendance records must be maintained for each student. Cumulative records shall be maintained upon the student’s entrance into our school until the student has graduated or is no longer enrolled in our school. Permanent records are maintained in perpetuity. Upon the request of an adult student or parents of minor students, all reports, tests, and evaluations will be shown to them in the presence of qualified school personnel. No other individuals have rights to student data without a subpoena or written permission of the adult student or the parents of the minor student. Students recommended for psycho-‐educational tests are normally referred to the School Psychologist at the Office of Catholic Schools. Test results are kept in a confidential file. Information requested by family doctors, counselors or psychologists would be returned directly to the office of that professional via U.S.

13

mail or via fax. All educational/psychological evaluations whether performed privately or by the Archdiocese school psychologist must be shared with the school.

Custodial Order

If a custodial order is in force, the school MUST be notified. A copy of the legal order must be submitted to the principal where it will be kept in a locked file. Policy for Unusual Custodial arrangements: In the event of unusual custodial arrangements (i.e., a child not allowed to go with a parent, etc.), the school must be given a copy of the pertinent legal document. Any faculty or staff member who needs to be aware of the situation will be informed. No student will be dismissed from any class or activity (i.e., lunch, recess, etc.) without the proper dismissal form from the school office.

Attendance

Saint Thomas More Catholic School operates 180 days for students, in compliance with the rules and regulations of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. St. Thomas More Catholic School is in session from 8:00 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Dismissal on Wednesday is at 2:30 p.m. Middle school students are allowed to enter their building at 7:45 a.m. Students are considered TARDY after 8:00 a.m. It is the shared responsibility of the school and the home to assist students in developing desirable habits of punctuality and attendance. Students are required to be in school and on time when school is in session, including days scheduled for exams, field trips, or School Masses. Parents are responsible for the attendance of their children at school. Academic achievement is evaluated on the basis of a student’s involvement and participation; therefore, attendance is necessary. Parents are responsible to notify the school of an absence by calling the school office before 9:00 a.m. on each day of the student’s absence. Upon the student’s return to school, parents are required to send a note to school explaining the reason for the absence. In cases of illnesses spanning more than 3 days, a note from the doctor may be necessary. Legal requirements mandate these notes be kept on file for the current school year. Failure to provide a written explanation is considered "Parental Neglect." Archdiocesan policy states that "repeated unexcused absence or tardiness may be considered grounds for suspension or even expulsion. If the principal deems that a student’s absences/tardies are excessive, a letter will be sent or a parent conference will be held to determine a plan of action to ensure more regular attendance and/or punctuality." Students continually absent or tardy without sufficient cause will be referred to the principal. Georgia law requires 180 student days in the school calendar year. If a student surpasses 20 days absent, it is doubtful that the student

14

will be prepared for the following school year and may have to repeat the current grade. Absence for any reason removes the student from the primary learning environment and has a negative effect on student achievement. If a student is taken out of school before the end of the academic year and class work and final exams are not completed prior to the departure of the student, the student may receive Incompletes as grades on his/her final report card. Early dismissals are disruptive to the class. Please do not make doctor appointments, etc., that remove your student from the same class repeatedly. Should a student need to be dismissed early, the student should present the homeroom teacher with a note from the parent upon morning arrival to class. Parents should report to the office to secure an early dismissal form for their student(s). When a student becomes sick at school, the school office will call the parents. If a student is too ill to return to class, he/she must be picked up by a parent. Students who are absent from school MAY NOT be on campus to participate in extracurricular activities. SICK CHILDREN WILL NOT BE KEPT AT SCHOOL. PLEASE REMEMBER to contact the school office with changes of address and/or phone numbers at home or at work, or cell phone or pager numbers. It is very important to have current phone numbers on file in the event of an emergency. Tuition Catholic tuition applies to families who have received a signed Parish Verification Form from their church stating that they are active members of their parish. The Parish Verification form must be on file in the school office of St. Thomas More Catholic School no later than June 1st in order to receive the Catholic tuition rate. If the form is not on file in the school office by the June 1st deadline, the family will be charged the Non-‐Catholic tuition rate for each child for the upcoming school year and adjustments will NOT be made to the tuition rate during the school year. Non-‐Catholic tuition is based on the actual unsubsidized costs. Tuition is reduced by $150.00 per student if tuition is paid in full by July 20th. All families are expected to make prompt payment of tuition and fees in accordance with the procedure and schedule approved by the St. Thomas More Parish Finance Council and published by the Principal. For those families who pay monthly the tuition will be divided into 10 equal monthly installments beginning on July 20th and ending on April 20th. Families who fail to submit a tuition payment by the established due date will be notified. TUITION PAYMENT POLICY Tuition is a financial obligation that parents accept when their child is admitted to St. Thomas More Catholic School. The operation of the School is contingent upon the collection of tuition; therefore, parents are expected to abide by the tuition guidelines

15

stated below. • Annual Payment – Full Payment is by July 20. • Monthly Payments – Tuition is equally divided in to ten monthly payments, with

the first payment due on July 20 and the last payment on April 20. DELINQUENT TUITION COLLECTIONS

• Tuition delinquent 30 days, a late notice will be mailed to parents and a $75.00 late fee will be assessed and collected through FACTS.

• Tuition delinquent 60 days, parents will be contacted by certified mail and must contact the principal to discuss a written plan for payment, signed by the principal and the parent. Access to electronic grades will be suspended until such contact has been made. A $75.00 late fee will be assessed and collected through FACTS.

• Tuition delinquent 90 days, a mandatory meeting with the principal and pastor held to discuss continued enrollment of the student(s) in the school. A $75.00 late fee will be assessed and collected through FACTS.

The School has the right to refuse class admittance to any student whose account is delinquent more than sixty (60) days. The Student may return to class when the delinquent account is current and the principal agrees to reinstate the student. Transcripts, report cards, awards and diplomas are the property of the School and may not be issued to the student (or parents of the student) if the student’s account is delinquent. A graduating 8th grade student’s account must be current one (1) month prior to the student’s last day of school in order for the student to participate in the graduation ceremonies. A returning student’s account must be current two (2) weeks prior to the student’s last day of school of the current school year. If the account is not current, the student may not be permitted to enroll for the upcoming school year, and the school reserves the right to take a family from the waiting list to fill the class slot at that time. Any delinquent payments must be paid in certified funds. This policy is not meant to be punitive, but in fairness to all families and our mission to educate, we expect our families to maintain current tuition accounts. The school has a history of working in good faith with families in need, but families must communicate with the school, commit to a payment plan that is acceptable to all parties, and fulfill the terms of the approved payment plan.

16

Fees

St. Thomas More Catholic School uses FACTS, a financial institution, as our tuition collection service. STM offers two payment options: 1) Pay tuition in full by July 20th or 2) Automatic bank account withdrawal plan through FACTS ALL families must set up a FACTS account. In option 2, Tuition will be divided into 10 equal monthly installments beginning in July and ending in April. You may obtain information about your tuition account by contacting FACTS. You may contact them via the phone number below or by going online to www.factsmgt.com/signin/and following the simple log on instructions. FACTS: 1-‐866-‐441-‐4637 | SCHOOL ACCOUNT # 12801 RE-‐REGISTRATION FEE: This non-‐refundable fee of $100 per student is deducted through your FACTS account on February 15. This fee secures your student’s place for the next school year. MORE LOVE HOURS AND FEES: Each family is responsible for donating 17 hours of volunteer time to the school. This can be done in a variety of ways including but not limited to parent work days, office volunteer, lunch room monitor, auction committee, fundraising committees, class parties, carpool volunteers, attending PTO meetings, More Fest, basketball coaching, scout leaders. Please check with the PTO president or the principal if you have a question about what counts as volunteer service. The following activities are solely parish-‐based activities and will not count toward More Love Hours: altar serving, lecturing at Mass, extraordinary minister of the Eucharist at Mass, or teaching in the parish school of religion. A log is set up annually on the front page of Sycamore (this is a web-‐based data system which allows students and parents to view their grades). Please remember to log all your hours each time you volunteer. Each family that does not volunteer 17 hours will be assessed $10/hr. for each unsatisfied hour. Fees that are not paid by the designated June date will be added to the next school year’s tuition via FACTS tuition. NEW STUDENT APPLICATION FEE: This Non Refundable fee is collected with the student’s application for admission. All new applicants must pay this fee to cover the costs of processing admissions paperwork and the required testing for admittance. All fees and accounts (Hot Lunch, Aftercare, Library Fines, and Tuition) must be paid in full two week prior to the end of the school year. Payments for any of the above accounts will not be accepted on the last day of school.

17

Financial Aid

A limited amount of financial aid is available to Catholic families. Applications for aid will be sent with re-‐registration forms in January. The applicant must submit the application form and necessary documentation for financial assistance to FACTS Grant and Aid Applications. The school uses this company to evaluate all requests independently. These forms must be completed accurately and in a timely fashion in order to qualify for financial aid. You will be notified by mail of your award during the month of APRIL. EXTENDED CARE PROGRAM The Extended Care Program at St. Thomas More Catholic School follows the guidelines of the state and is available to students who are currently enrolled at STM. The program is open to students from Kindergarten to 8th Grade, but space is limited. Extended Care will be held every full day that school is in session. Students enrolled in the extended day care program are expected to follow the same code of conduct as they do during the regular school hours. The Extended Program will provide a snack, study hall, planned activities and play time. Students are expected to adhere to the Behavior Guidelines of the school. Students, who do not demonstrate good judgment in their choices, may receive a Conduct Referral (K-‐4) or Detention/Conduct Referrals (5-‐8) which may lead to permanent removal from the Extended Care Program. Registration for the Extended Care Program will be available in the early spring for the following year. There is a non-‐refundable $35.00 registration fee per family. For information, please contact the Extended Care Program Director via KIDSMAIL or call 404-‐274-‐2337 after 3:00 p.m. Students dropped off before 7:30 a.m. will be required to sign in for morning care and will be charged a registration fee and billed for extended day usage. Students left after dismissal-‐ 3:35pm daily & 2:50pm on Wednesdays-‐ will be sent to Aftercare and charged for the time. If your child is registered for the Extended Day Program and is inviting a friend over, but that friend is not registered for Extended Day, the friend cannot attend the Extended Day Program. The Extended Day Program must comply with certain regulations. Please, either make arrangements to pick up your child and his/her friend/s at dismissal or make other arrangements for getting the friend to your house. Any changes made to Extended Day attendance must be submitted in writing (Ex: change from PT to FT). The letter must be dated, signed, changes noted and letter sent to the Financial Administrator in the school office. Please do not bring the letter

18

to the personnel working the Extended Day program when you pick up. The change will take effect when Karyl Davis receives the notice. REMINDER: Please do not use initials to sign-‐out. Only a signature is acceptable. Thank you for your cooperation in helping to make the program run smoothly and ensure safety for your children. Please note that there is not a daily rate for morning care. There is only a weekly charge even if your child is there only 1 day. Payments are due 10 days after the invoice date -‐ the due date is on your bill. IF PAYMENT IS NOT RECEIVED WITHIN 15 DAYS AFTER THE INVOICE DATE, A LATE CHARGE OF $25.00 WILL BE CHARGED AS INCIDENTAL FEES IN FACTS. To avoid any late charges, everyone is more than welcome to pay in advance.

STM Hot Lunch Program

Back to the Garden has been successfully serving Atlanta since 1993. Family owned and operated for 18 years, our mission is to offer quality meals to children. With a combined level of experience in the food service industry encompassing 3 decades, Yolanda Coleman and the Back to the Garden staff are committed to community and civic engagement. Our clients appreciate the care and planning we demonstrate for all occasions. Whether clients want a catered breakfast, boardroom luncheon, corporate picnic, or customized lunches or dinners, we pride ourselves in professional performance, quality food, and exceptional customer service. We are committed to your success because our success depends on it. As a way to give back to the community Back to the Garden supports various charities throughout the year. Because we continue to have the support of our loyal customers, we are able to partner with various organizations to hopefully make a difference for people in need. Back to the Garden is pleased to offer STM students a daily variety of healthy homemade lunch choices. Hot entrees, vegetarian alternatives, soup, sandwiches, salad bar, pizza, yogurt parfaits, sun chips, fresh fruit are offered daily. Students order their selections bi-‐monthly in advance at www.boonli.com The password to register is stripes24. If you have any questions please email [email protected] ORDERING MILK Information for placing milk orders will be sent home at the beginning of school in August. Order forms and menus are available on the website www.stmga.org

19

The Annual Fund

The Annual Fund campaign is kicked off in the fall of each school year. Both financial gifts and gifts of prayer are requested for St. Thomas More School from current parents, faculty/staff, grandparents, alumni, parents of alumni, friends, and local businesses. The purpose of the Annual Fund is to bridge the gap between the actual cost of educating our students and the income we receive from tuition. Without the Annual Fund we would not be able to keep the annual increase in tuition to a minimum. Q WHAT HAPPENS TO THE MONEY RAISED THROUGH THE ANNUAL FUND? A: STM School is responsible for $150,000 per year on the construction debt service for the multi-‐purpose building and remodeled school entrance and offices. The money raised through the Annual Fund is traditionally applied towards this annual payment. If we reach or exceed our goal each year, then 20% of the money raised will go directly back to the school. Q: WHAT IS OUR GOAL? A: Our ultimate goal is to raise enough money through the Annual Fund to cover the $150,000 annual payment that the School is responsible for on the debt service of the multi-‐purpose building and renovated school entrance and offices. Our participation goal is 100% from our parents and our faculty/staff. Q: HOW MUCH SHOULD I CONTRIBUTE? A: We are truly grateful for each and every gift made to the Annual Fund. Please keep in mind that no gift is too big or too small; it is your demonstration of support that really makes a difference! A high percentage of participation favorably influences outside sources of support (e.g. charitable foundations) when the school applies for grants. Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ANNUAL FUND AND THE PTO FUNDRAISERS? A: The funds raised through the Annual Fund and the PTO Fundraisers help us keep our tuition level at a minimum. The Annual Fund helps the School make our annual payment on the note for the multi-‐purpose building and renovated front entrance and offices. The PTO fundraisers help to pay for such items as classroom supplies, faculty/staff professional development, technology, and curriculum enhancement. The PTO also contributes $30,000 each year from its income to help the school pay for the debt service. Without the Annual Fund and the PTO Fundraisers, two very important sources of income, we would be forced to significantly increase our level of tuition. So as you can see, both of these efforts are of the utmost importance to the success of STM School. Q: WHAT ARE MATCHING GIFTS? A: Matching gift programs are offered through many corporations. Companies assist

20

nonprofit organizations by matching an employee’s gift (often dollar for dollar). Please check with your Human Resources Department to see if your company has a Matching Gifts Program.

Communication with the School

Good communication fosters mutual understanding and support between home and school that is essential to student success.

• Our first important channel of communication is our Welcome Back Night(s). This is a mandatory meeting for all parents. At this meeting parents are oriented to aspects of the school year. Information on curriculum projections, behavioral and discipline standards, school/classroom expectations and home work requirements will be discussed.

• The MORE NEWS is our school newsletter. It communicates important news about what is going on at school and messages from administration, parish and parent committees. This newsletter is e-‐mailed to all parents for whom we have an e-‐mail address. It is also available at www.stmga.org and a hard copy is available upon request.

• Mandatory Parent Conferences are scheduled in the fall for all K-‐8 students. Grades 3-‐8 students are required to attend the conferences. Additional conferences can be scheduled as needed with optional spring conference.

• Report cards are issued each quarter. Mid-‐quarter progress reports are issued at all levels. During second and/or third quarter, parents are notified if the student is failing more than two subjects. See page 51 for the Failure of Core Subjects policy.

• Grades K-‐5 also communicate by sending a folder home on a regular basis. • This will be explained to you at Welcome Back Night(s). It may include the

MORE NEWS, class newsletter, work to be signed or completed, and other communication from the teacher/s.

• Middle school students use their planner/assignment book as a tool of communication tool between home and school. Parents may be required to check it, and sign that they have seen the test/score sheet. The parent or teacher may write notes to each other in the folders or planners.

• Sycamore Education-‐ Please check it frequently for school & classroom updates as well as for monitoring your child's grades.

POLICY FOR COMMUNICATING WITH NON-‐CUSTODIAL PARENTS: St. Thomas More Catholic School abides by the Buckley Amendment. Thus, non-‐custodial parents will be given access to the academic records and to information regarding the academic progress of their children, unless there is a court order specifically stating that the non-‐custodial parent is denied access to such information. For non-‐custodial parents to receive a copy of their child(ren)’s report card and/or other school

21

communications, they must notify the school office in writing or their child(ren)’s homeroom teacher. The homeroom teacher will be responsible for giving photocopies of report cards and other classroom communication to the office staff, who will mail them. The office staff will be responsible for mailing all school-‐wide mailings. COMMUNICATION WITH TEACHERS: If you have a comment or concern regarding classroom activities or procedures before speaking with the principal, first contact is the child’s homeroom or subject teacher. The most dependable way of reaching the teacher is by e-‐mail. E-‐mail addresses for all teachers are available in the front of this handbook, and on the school website www.stmga.org. Teachers are not available during the school day for conferences. You are also welcome to call the office and leave a message for the teacher to call you. Please suggest the best time to reach you and leave a phone number. If a return call is not made within a 24-‐hour period, please call the office again. If the second call is unanswered, please call the principal or assistant principal. DROP-‐IN CONFERENCES BEFORE, AFTER OR DURING SCHOOL HOURS ARE NOT

ACCEPTABLE. CONFERENCES MUST BE SCHEDULED WITH THE TEACHER. CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION: If you have concerns involving the school and its policies, please be courteous and speak first with the principal, before calling the Office of Catholic Schools, or going to the Pastor. There are proper channels of communication and they begin with the principal. Petitions, phone chains, informal parent surveys and gossip will not be recognized. Please remember the Golden Rule! No one has the right to confront another parent, student, or any member of the STM family regarding personal matters on school property. Please schedule an appointment with the school counselor, assistant principal, or principal if you have a matter that needs attention. The principal encourages open communication between all STM parties. SCHOOL AND FAMILY COOPERATION/COMMUNICATIONS: If information, which causes concern, surfaces at school about a particular student(s), and if the information cannot be immediately substantiated, the school reserves the right to discuss this information with the particular student(s) and his/her/their parents. This unofficial and off-‐the-‐record type of communication reflects the school’s ongoing desire to act in cooperation with families in raising awareness, bringing about preventative intervention, and dispelling rumor. When students of STM are being discussed, the principal has the right to request parents and others concerned to stop any discussion that could be harmful to those in question.

22

School Closing Information

In case of snow, ice or other hazardous weather conditions, Saint Thomas More Catholic School information will be given to the following radio and television stations regarding attendance at Saint Thomas More by 6:00 AM of the relevant day. We no longer follow DeKalb Co. School Systems for school closing. In the event of inclement weather, please use your best judgment for traveling to school: Fox 5, WAGA; 11-‐Alive, Channel 11. WXIA-‐TV; News/Talk 750 WSB Radio; WSB-‐TV; WGST, 640 AM & STAR 94 (94.1 FM). Parents, students and faculty will be responsible for listening to these stations for the closing announcements. If there is a delayed opening for school, there is no morning care. If power is not affected this information will be on the school website: www.stmga.org. You may call the School Office at (404) 373-‐8456. Closing information will be updated on the answering machine if at all possible-‐weather conditions permitting.

PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE RECTORY FOR THIS INFORMATION. YOU MAY CALL THE SCHOOL OFFICE AT 404-‐373-‐8456

STM Telephone Broadcast System

STM has a broadcast system that will enable school personnel to notify all parents by phone within minutes of an emergency or unplanned event that causes early dismissal, school cancellation or late start. STM will continue to report school closings due to snow or weather on the local news and radio stations and will use this system as an overlay to the public announcements. If you have any questions, please contact the school office.

Visiting the School

ALL VISITORS MUST REGISTER IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE. Visitors are welcome at Saint Thomas More School. Parents and alumni are welcome to visit classrooms and talk with the teachers, but not during school hours. You must schedule an appointment with your child’s teacher if you need to see them. Methods with which you may schedule this appointment are: go to the school office and leave a message for the teacher, send a message via kids’ mail or use e-‐mail to schedule a time to visit your child’s teacher before or after school hours. SECURITY: All visitors must enter the school through the main doors. Visitors should ring the bell to be acknowledged and buzzed in by the office staff. Once

23

buzzed in, visitors should proceed directly to the school office to sign in. Former students and graduates are welcome to visit with faculty members before or after school. They are required to check in at the school office and not interrupt the teacher during a class period. No one should wander the school halls, grounds, or lunchroom or visit classrooms without securing a pass from the office. Please do not expect or ask students to open the locked doors for you. They have been told not to do this. Parents are requested NOT to make a special trip to school to deliver forgotten items. Sometimes it is very important that a parent needs to reach their child during the school day. If it is an emergency, we will locate your child and deliver the message. However, should a parent need to contact their child during the day for non-‐emergency issues, the office staff will attempt to deliver your message. Do not call your child on his/her cell phone. Arrangements for carpool and aftercare should be made prior to the start of the school day. Students must submit written permission by 8:15am to their homeroom teacher and the front office if they will be changing their normal departure method.

THE SCHOOL OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED DAILY FROM 2:50 -‐ 3:30 P.M.

School Policies

RELIGION Church Attendance: Catholic families are expected to regularly attend Mass on Sunday and holy days of obligation. Non-‐Catholic families are expected to regularly participate in their worship services. Religion classes are part of the curriculum and required of all students. Students are expected to participate in prayer, liturgy, retreats and other religious activities in a respectful and dignified manner. Each grade level participates in the planning of scheduled liturgies throughout the year. All students participate in service projects to the wider community during the Advent and Lenten seasons. Sacramental Preparation: Parent meetings and family activities supplement sacramental preparation are completed at school. Reconciliation and Eucharist are the two Sacraments that are celebrated in the second grade at St. Thomas More Catholic School and Parish: All students participate in the classroom lessons. All Catholic students are expected to receive the sacraments as scheduled within their home parishes unless written blessing is granted from their home parish pastor. Non-‐Catholics are not eligible to participate in the sacraments.

24

Kindergarten, 3rd graders, 6th graders, and all new students participate in an Archdiocesan sponsored safety program called Safe Environment in fall and winter, if needed. Please contact the principal if you would like to have more information about this program. All students needing the safety program will participate unless parents provide an opting out letter to administration no later than August 31st.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

Social Media encompasses the various cyberspace ways that persons can communicate with each other. Social Media includes, but is not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat, Twitter, etc. STM maintains a presence on the Internet with a webpage (www.stmga.org), a Facebook page, and an Instagram feed. Photos/student work posted “on the web” may appear in any or all of these as well as any additional online sources of its choosing.

Defamatory Postings

While the School does not prohibit the use of social media, conduct, whether inside or outside the school, which is detrimental to the reputation of the school can result in disciplinary action.

Therefore, defamatory or threatening statements made on social media may result in discipline of the account holder. Photos and captions on a student or parent’s social media account that depict the school, the faculty, other students, or the parish in a defamatory way may result in disciplinary action.

The school and the parents are partners in the education of the students. If, in the opinion of the administration, that partnership is no longer viable, the school reserves the right to require the parent to withdraw the student from the School.

Right to Privacy

Recognizing that faculty, staff, students and visitors have a right to privacy, photos may not be taken on school grounds or at school-‐sponsored functions without the express written permission of the principal.

No audio/video recording devices may be used during functions of the school without the expressed permission of the principal. Such events include but are not limited to: classroom presentations, awards ceremonies, performances, parent conferences, administrative conferences, school dances, and religious services. This policy also includes recording of conversations in person or by telephone; by or among students, parents, teachers or school administrators; on school property or

25

involving the use of the school telephone.

Posting of photos or videos in cyberspace and/or social media which features students in STM uniform or otherwise identifies students, faculty, and/or staff as members of the STM Catholic School community, is strictly forbidden and will result in disciplinary action.

USE OF SCHOOL NAME / LOGO / MOTTO

The school has the right to restrict the use of the school name, logo, and motto to only those authorized by the principal. No one is allowed to establish a social media account in the name of St. Thomas More Catholic School or use the school name, logo, or motto on social media/cyberspace in any other way without express written permission of the principal.

Use of School Photos

St. Thomas More Catholic School has an active promotion and development program. Students photos may appear in photographs, publications, the school webpage, films, interviews, or videotapes made in conjunction with these and other school-‐sponsored activities. These photographs or interviews may appear in school, local, or national media.

It is the policy of STM Catholic School to never identify students by name when photos or student artwork are used on the web.

STM and the Archdiocese of Atlanta bear no responsibility or liability for any claims arising from the publication or reproduction of any photographs, films, interviews, web page, or videotapes.

Child Abuse/Neglect

The State of Georgia requires by law that any principal, teacher, counselor, other school administrator, or volunteer report all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect of children under eighteen years of age. Georgia Law, Code Section 19-‐7-‐5, requires the reporting of injuries or neglect of minors, provides immunity for those reporting in good faith, and provides for a penalty for violation of the law.

26

Immunization

All students must comply with the State of Georgia immunization laws. A Certificate of Immunization Georgia form 3231 must be kept on file for every child enrolled in our school. Per State of Georgia Law, all rising 6th grade students must provide the school office with an updated immunization record indicating that the student has received a second MMR vaccination and chicken pox vaccine or proof of the disease. All rising 7th grade students need documentation of one dose of tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine (Tdap) and one dose of meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) to begin classes the new school year. The Catholic Church does not recognize any immunization exemptions for any reason, unless it is a medical condition of the child. If there is a medical condition that prohibits or delays immunization, documentation must be provided by the child's physician. If immunizations are delayed, a catch up schedule must be provided by the child's physician. The Georgia immunization form must be used, families transferring from other states must have their child's Immunization form from their state, transferred over to the Georgia form. The state does not accept any out of state immunization forms. This can be done at the Health Department or the student's new doctor can also complete it. It must be submitted to school before the beginning of the school year.

Illness Policy

Deciding whether or not to send your child to school when they may be ill is a difficult decision. Below are guidelines to help in your decision of whether or not your child may be too sick for school. Children must be fever and symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child has started on antibiotics, then they must have been on them for 24 hours before returning to school. Please keep your child home when they have a bad cough. If your child has a red or pink eye, you need to consult your pediatrician before sending your child to school. The condition of pink eye can be very contagious and only your doctor can determine whether or not it is contagious. If your child has pink eye and is on antibiotics, they must be on them for 24 hours before returning to school. In case of head lice infestation a diagnosis can be made if a person has crawling bugs on the head or many lice eggs within 1/4 inch (about the width of your little finger) of the scalp. Students will be sent home and may return to school after treatment. They must come to the office to be checked before returning to the classroom. With all illnesses, even the beginnings of a cold, children get better faster when they get rest, and a day at home may be all that is needed to get them better. There are websites available to aid in this decision. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is a good

27

resource. Their website is www.choa.com click on patient resources then online medical information they also have a nurse you can call and speak with at 404-‐250-‐KIDS. If you have any questions you can email or call the school nurse.

Accidents, Injury, or Illness at School

In the case of an accident, injury or illness, the school office will notify parents. An accident report will be completed and placed on file regarding all accidents resulting in significant injury. See the school nurse for the necessary forms.

Health and Medication

Health Cards and Parent Consent Forms must be signed and on file in the school office. If a student has special health concerns or allergies these MUST be identified on the health card. An Allergy Action Plan must be completed at the start of every school year and kept with the student's health card. If your child takes any daily medication please notify the school nurse. Parents are required to notify the school office of communicable diseases such as pink eye, strep, or flu. Emergency contact names and phone numbers must be listed on the health card. These numbers are needed in case of an accident or medical emergency when parents cannot be contacted. All kindergarten and new to the school students must have a physical exam, and a form signed from their doctor. The Saint Thomas More Catholic School office operates a clinic staffed by a nurse. The primary function of the clinic is to provide care of minor injuries or illnesses and to administer prescribed medications. If a student is to take prescribed medication during school hours, the medication should be brought to the school office. Prescribed medications must be properly labeled in a container by a pharmacy. The student’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage, and the time to be given must be included. Medication will be administered to students with written consent from a doctor. Students with allergies or asthma will have an action plan in the clinic. If your child’s health card is not on file in the School Office, your child will not be allowed to stay at school.

Non-‐prescription Drugs

The school may not dispense any over the counter medications this includes but is not limited to Tylenol, Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), cough syrup or cough drops unless there is an archdiocese medication form on file at the school. These forms are

28

good for 1 school calendar year, and must be signed by a doctor. If your child needs to be given any non-‐prescription medications, during school hours, please send in the medication in a new unopened bottle labeled with your child’s name and containing the instructions as to time and dosage needed. Every child that receives medication at school is given a clinic report that goes home telling the reason for the visit, with the time the medication was given and reason for medication.

Emergency Procedures

A manual of emergency procedures is available in the school office. Parents who wish to review these procedures may do so. Standard fire drills, tornado drills, lock down drills and evacuation procedures are in place. GEMA Officials have reviewed our emergency procedures and completed a site survey.

Pandemic Flu Plan

The plan will be updated and modified as up-‐to-‐date communications are provided to the school nurse. Updates will be posted on the STM website. Please call the school nurse with any questions: 404-‐373-‐8456 The Pandemic Flu plan for St. Thomas More School is as follows: Prevention

o Hand washing education o Coughing and sneezing education o Hand sanitizer in the classrooms o Cleaning cloths in classrooms for computers, desks, common areas etc... o Tissues in all rooms o Illness policy in student handbook

Preparedness

o All items noted above in place o Stay current with CDC, State health, and Board of Education bulletins o School Web site can be used to post updates, school closings, and o educational assignments as necessary

Response o Follow CDC and State implementation policy for school closing o The STM website will stay current o School wide telephone response service can notify parents o Clean and disinfect school buildings well before students & teachers return

Recovery o Return to Prevention Status

Asbestos All identified asbestos containing materials have been removed from the school

29

buildings in accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) regulations. Our management plan, with historic documentation of previous inspection and abatement projects is available for your review upon request.

Fire, Tornado and Lockdown Drills

Fire drills are mandatory and are conducted throughout the school year. Students are expected to follow the directions of the teacher and adults in charge. Evacuation procedures are posted in all classrooms and are reviewed by the teacher. Students are expected to be silent and conduct themselves in an appropriate manner in order to insure the safety of all students, faculty and staff personnel. Severe weather drills are conducted in November and February. Students are instructed as to where they are to go in case of a tornado or severe weather conditions. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner in order to insure the safety of all students, faculty and staff personnel. In the event that tornado watches are issued for the school area, the administration office will constantly monitor the weather channel and weather band radio. If the watch turns into a warning, the students will be conducted to safety. Locks down drills are also conducted. After a message from the school office all classrooms doors and building doors are locked. Students may not leave the safe area until "all clear" signal is given.

School-‐wide Evacuation

In the case of an emergency where our school must be evacuated, students will be moved to the First Christian Church of Decatur on the corner of West Ponce de Leon and Nelson Ferry Road.

Conduct and Discipline

BEHAVIORAL RESPONSIBILITIES "You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with

all your mind...and you must love your neighbor as yourself." Matt. 22:37-‐40 As parents you acknowledge that the school rules govern the conduct of the student when on the school property, including the Extended Care program, participating in school activities off of the school property, field trips or any school event. 1. We respect all people and property. 2. We respect a person’s right to be free of mental, physical, and/or personal property abuse stemming from intimidation or horseplay. 3. We are self-‐disciplined and maintain order.

30

4. We are honest. We do not lie, cheat or steal. 5. We do not use rude, abrasive or profane language. 6. We accept responsibility for what we do and what we fail to do. Acceptable standards of behavior as defined by our school will be expected at all times. Discipline will be administered when an individual’s actions interfere with the right of the teacher to teach and students to learn. A student will be sent home from school in cases of disruptive behavior. STANDARDS OF EXPECTATION

o Students are expected to exhibit Christian behavior, speech, courtesy, and respect for teacher, staff, parents, assistants, and fellow students.

o Students are expected to show respect and care for all school property. o Students/parents are expected to pay full price for any library book,

textbook or workbook that is lost or no longer usable. Fines will be assessed for damaged books that can be reused. The report card may be held until payment is received. After 2 weeks, the book is presumed lost and payment is expected in full for that book.

o Students are expected to follow specific classroom guidelines as noted by the classroom teacher.

o Cheating or copying another student’s work is a serious offense. o Students and parents are expected to follow safety rules for arrival and

dismissal in the mornings and afternoons. o Students must remain on the school grounds during school hours. o During after-‐school hours, students are not permitted to re-‐enter the

building. o Students participating in a supervised extra-‐curricular activity must

remain with the chaperone(s). o Students are expected to abide by all school regulations going to and from

school, and/or while on field trips or attending in-‐house cultural programs.

o Students are not allowed to have excessive amounts of money or valuables at school (for example, jewelry, electronic equipment, toys, or items to sell or trade).

o Students will be permitted to use the phone in the school office in cases of emergency with permission from a teacher and under the supervision of an office staff member.

o Students are not allowed to have any form of chewing or bubble gum on the school premises during school hours, before school hours or after school hours.

o Snacks provided by the aftercare program are ONLY for the students who attend the aftercare school program.

o Students are responsible for remembering lunches, books, gym clothes, permission slips, assignments and making after school social arrangements outside of school time. To help students develop this sense of

31

responsibility, parents are asked NOT to make a special trip to school to bring forgotten items.

o Students are expected to wear the school uniform in an appropriate manner

Weekly conduct cards are used in grades 3-‐8. These cards are sent home each week for parents to review and sign.

They must be returned to the homeroom teacher.

Behavior Contracts

If a student is suspended or receives 2 conduct referrals, the parents may be asked to sign a Behavior Contract that will include all conditions of the student’s retention at our school. Possible terms of this contract may include professional counseling, participation in local community programs addressing youth violence, suspension from all extra-‐curricular activities, and any other conditions deemed appropriate by the school administration.

School Detention Policy (Grades 5-‐8)

The principal has the right to use discretion in determining and resolving all discipline violations on a case-‐by-‐case basis. At St. Thomas More Catholic School we feel very strongly that responsibility educates. As students make the transition from children to young adults, their freedoms and responsibilities will increase. Some adapt to this better than others. In order to be successful at St. Thomas More School, your child will need to be able to work within the structure and guidelines established in this handbook. When behaviors or expectations are inappropriate, consequences will occur. These consequences could include the issuance of a detention. Detentions are intended to be an inconvenience to your child; if they were not, they would not be effective. For this reason, please do not send a note asking that detention be postponed. Let your child experience the consequences of choices and actions. Sending the message that punishment is only served when it is convenient to the family is not being truthful about the way that life works in the adult world. Review options ahead of time with your child in the event of a detention being assigned. Better yet, know and discuss the standards set forth in this handbook so that detentions or other consequences for misbehavior may be avoided. Detentions may be postponed in the case of a long-‐standing medical or dental appointment, with written request to the principal or assistant principal. However, the detention must be served on the next scheduled Thursday. Detentions will be issued for students in grades 5-‐8 at the discretion of the teacher

32

and/or administration. The following are some of the behaviors that may result in immediate assignment of a detention:

o 3 or More Uniform infractions o Improper language o Any means of giving and/or receiving information when independent

academic material is being evaluated such as copying homework or classwork (this is considered academic dishonesty). Copying on tests or plagiarism of work may result in an immediate conduct referral.

o 3 conduct card signatures in 1 area In the same week o Use of or display of cell phone during regular school hours. o Chewing gum o IPad Infractions as listed on page 66 o Other conduct detrimental to the maintenance of a positive learning

environment for all, at the discretion of an administrator. Twenty-‐five points will be deducted on the weekly conduct grade when a detention is issued. Students serving detention will meet in a designated classroom on Thursdays from 3:15 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Detentions will be supervised by a teacher. The detention must be served on the first Thursday after the detention is given, unless the detention is issued on a Wednesday or a Thursday. In that case, the detention will be served the next Thursday. Failure to serve a detention may result in the issuance of a conduct referral. If a student serves three detentions for the same offense a conduct referral will be issued to the student. If a student accumulates a total of five detentions for various offenses, the student will be issued a conduct referral. An N or U might be reflected in conduct on the student’s report card as a result of a conduct referral. Students serving detention may assist in work around the school, as deemed appropriate by the principal or supervising teacher.

Conduct Referrals

Conduct Referrals are issued for disregard of rules. Verbal warnings may be given first to help the student correct his/her behavior. However, some behaviors warrant an immediate conduct referral without a warning. The issued Conduct Referral is first discussed with the principal or assistant principal. Parents will receive a copy of the referral in a sealed envelope explaining the incident. Receiving a conduct referral will be reflected in the student’s conduct grade, and student will not be named to the academic Honor Roll. Middle School students will not be placed on the Honor Roll with a Conduct Grade of U as outlined in the description of honor roll. We expect students to exhibit Christian behavior at all times. As stated in the Atlanta Archdiocese Student Policies 5000 Series Handbook, a student’s responsibilities are as follows:

1. Conduct himself/herself in a manner that contributes to a positive school environment.

33

2. Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating or harassing.

3. Report any dangerous incidents to the supervising adult. 4. When informed he/she is perceived as engaging in intimidating, harassing or

unwelcome conduct, the person must discontinue that conduct immediately. Conduct referrals will be automatically given for serious offenses such as: o fighting and aggressive behavior o vandalism of the physical plant or school property o verbal or physical abuse of authority figures and peers o profane language o safety violations o Any other serious offenses determined by administration.

Students who accumulate two conduct referrals for serious offenses may be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences should continued offenses occur. These consequences may include behavior contract, in or out of school suspensions and/or withdrawal from St. Thomas More School. The faculty and administration are concerned with students whose conduct on or off our school property including internet use that brings discredit or harm to the name of the school or to the reputation of our STM community. Conduct or behavior, which is in opposition to our school rules, Catholic philosophy and moral standards, on the part of our students could require a penalty or dismissal from the school. Field trips are an extension of the school day. Behavior expectations are one and the same. Behavior strips and behavior checklists are routinely used to foster self-‐discipline and encourage students to make proper choices and accept responsibility of his/her actions. Repeated or extremely serious offenses will result in a conference involving the student, parents, principal, school counselor, and faculty members. These actions also result in a discipline record and discipline records are forwarded to new schools if the schools request this information. Possible suspension or expulsion could be recommended. All strategies and recommendations for improving student’s behavior will be documented in accordance with the policies of the Archdiocese.

Expulsion

As a definition, expulsion is considered a termination of enrollment. Expulsions shall be used only as a final measure or in response to an egregious offense. Expulsion results from repeated refusal to obey school rules or from conduct which endangers self and others, property, health or safety of others, and is deemed to be

34

in the best interest of the school community. One, extremely serious offense may also be cause for expulsion. St. Thomas More Catholic School follows guidelines established by the Archdiocese in matters involving expulsion. Students asked not to return the following year for behavior reasons are not considered to be expelled. The student has not been accepted for re-‐enrollment in the next academic year because of prior behavioral problems. Students not allowed to return due to failure to meet required academic standards are not to be considered expelled. These academic requirements are articulated in this handbook. The Archdiocesan Superintendent of Schools is to be informed before any action leading to expulsion is taken. All disciplinary actions taken by the school shall be preceded by internal procedures and supported by defensible records. EXPULSION PROCEDURES In those cases where the code of discipline has reached or exceeded the allowable accumulated infractions, the principal may expel a student after consultation with the superintendent (and pastor, where applicable). Appeal of expulsion is made by the parents to the superintendent. When a specific disciplinary issue arises from outside of a school resulting in direct repercussions for a school of the archdiocese, the principal(s) involved must immediately contact the superintendent. In cases involving students from more than one archdiocesan school where expulsion could be considered, a disciplinary committee is convened and makes a recommendation to the superintendent. The decision for expulsion or other disciplinary action in such cases rests with the superintendent. Appeal of expulsion is made to the Office of the Archbishop. In those situations which arise for which no policy exists, the superintendent, in consultation with the Office of the Archbishop, will render a final decision. In keeping with Canon Law, the archbishop or his designee reserves the right to make decisions in all matters regarding archdiocesan elementary and secondary schools. Possessions Students should not bring to school any possessions that are distracting to the learning process, dangerous, or expensive to replace if lost or damaged. Students are not allowed to carry knives or weapons or parts of weapons as stated in the school policies. Students are not allowed to have iPods, CD/MP3 players, Gameboys, head phones, etc. in their possession during school hours on school property. CELL PHONES: Middle school students must keep cell phones in lockers, turned off

35

during the day, as well as during extended care and carpool. Elementary students should not have cell phones at school unless previously discussed with the classroom teacher or school nurse for extenuating circumstances. If you must contact your child, please call the school office during the regular school hours or call the extended care phone number during aftercare hours. If a cell phone is found, it will be confiscated and a detention will be issued. The second infraction of this rule could result in a conduct referral and a parent conference. The school reserves the right to search any item brought on campus. For class projects or Show & Tell, if expensive items or items referenced above are needed, permission must be obtained and arrangements must be made with the classroom teacher and school administration.

Substance Abuse

Smoking, drinking or any other drug use by Saint Thomas More Catholic School students either in the building, on school property or at a school-‐sponsored activity is a violation of school regulations. Any student found in violation or any student receiving or distributing prohibited items while under school supervision will be referred to the principal. IN THE CASE OF SMOKING, THE PRINCIPAL WILL:

o Notify Parents o Suspend the student for a period of time at the principal’s discretion o Possibly expel the student

IN THE CASE OF ALCOHOL, OR ANY OTHER DRUG, THE PRINCIPAL WILL:

o Notify the Police immediately o Notify Parents o Expel the student

Please refer to S.T.M. Parents Supporting Parents guidelines, page 41.

Weapons and Contraband Materials

The use, possession, or discharge of any weapons, parts of weapons, dangerous instruments or explosive devices in the school, on school grounds, or at school-‐sponsored activities is prohibited. This policy includes the possession of firearms (REAL or TOY), materials that can be used as weapons and other contraband materials, matches, lighters or flammable substance. Any item used in an inappropriate manner that could harm another individual is defined as a weapon.

36

Violations of this policy may warrant the notification of the police, immediate suspension, and possible expulsion.

School Desks & Lockers

Lockers and desks provided to the students by the school must be treated with respect and are considered school property. Because they are school property, lockers and desks are subject to search by the school administration at any time. Students and their parents should not have any expectations of privacy with respect to lockers and desks. Do not leave valuable items in locker or desks as the school is not responsible for replacing misplaced or lost items. Decorating the outside of the lockers will not be permitted. Decorations inside the lockers should be appropriate and in keeping with our school philosophy and policies. Students are required to have one locker shelf. Students should not share locker combinations with other students.

Harassment/Bullying

It is imperative to maintain an educational environment that encourages optimum human growth and development. Respect for the dignity of each person's race, culture, ethnicity, and mental and physical abilities is essential to Catholic tradition and St. Thomas More School. It is vital that each school program maintains a learning and working environment free of any form of harassment or intimidation of students by any other student, lay employee, religious, or priest. The school will treat allegations of harassment seriously and will review and investigate such allegations in a prompt, confidential and thorough manner. Substantiated acts of harassment will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Students found to have filed false or frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to, verbal or written taunting; bullying; cyber-‐bullying or cyber stalking, other offensive, intimidating, hostile conduct; jokes, stories, pictures, cartoons, drawings or objects which are offensive, tend to alarm, annoy, abuse or demean an individual or group.

Hazing

DEFINITION OF HAZING: Any act committed against someone joining or becoming a member or maintaining membership in any organization that is humiliating, intimidating or demeaning, or endangers the health and safety of the person. Hazing includes active or passive participation in such acts and occurs regardless of the willingness to participate in the activities. Hazing creates an

37

environment/climate in which dignity and respect are absent. Initiation into campus organizations, athletic teams, and other activities undertaken by such organizations or individuals must be consistent with the stated purposes of the organizations and the educational mission of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. Any activities that may be construed as hazing are specifically and unequivocally prohibited. The consequences of any incident of hazing will be the same as those for harassment and bullying.

Sexual Harassment

St. Thomas More Catholic School is firmly committed to providing a safe, positive learning and working environment for everyone in the school. For this reason, and in keeping with the goals and objectives of Catholic education, St. Thomas More Catholic School expressly prohibits sexual harassment and sexual violence in the school environment. This policy re-‐emphasizes the personal dignity of the individual and fosters positive sexual attitudes and respect for others. SEXUAL HARASSMENT DEFINED: For the purposes of this policy, sexual harassment includes the following specific instances: verbal sexual abuse; disseminating obscene or sexually explicit material, whether in the form of music, written lyrics, pornographic pictures or other literature, or having such material in one’s possession in the school, on school grounds, or at school-‐sponsored activities; obscene or sexually explicit graffiti anywhere in the school or on the school/parish grounds; continuing unwanted written or oral communications directed to another of a sexual nature; spreading sexual rumors/innuendoes; obscene t-‐shirts, hats or buttons; touching oneself sexually in front of others; obscene and/or sexually explicit gestures; and any other inappropriate behavior of a sexually explicit or obscene nature that demeans or offends the recipient. The above list is not meant to be all-‐inclusive, but is intended to provide guidance as to what may constitute sexual harassment. Isolated, trivial incidents are not sufficient to constitute sexual harassment and will be handled according to the student behavior code. ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT (as defined above) are to be reported to the principal. Parents of both the offender and the victim will be informed of the allegations. The matter is to be kept confidential by all parties involved and every effort will be made to protect the alleged victim from retaliation. The parents of both the offender and the victim are obligated to cooperate in remedying the situation. If the allegations are substantiated, disciplinary actions will be taken. These will depend on the nature, frequency and severity of the action, the ages of the offender and victim, the history of similar actions by this individual, and the circumstances in which the harassment occurred. Possible disciplinary actions may include but are not limited to any or all of the following:

o Verbal warning/reprimand and apology to the victim;

38

o A parent/student/principal conference o Written warning/reprimand and parent notification, entered in the student’s

file; o Detention or removal from selected school activities and/or

extracurricular activities; o Behavior contracts, possibly requiring professional intervention o Suspension o Expulsion

SEXUAL VIOLENCE: Sexual violence is handled separately because of its potential criminal nature. If an incident of sexual violence occurs, the principal, or other school authority is required under state law to report the incident (GA Code Section 19-‐7-‐5) that sexual abuse or violence has occurred involving a child less than eighteen years of age. The Archdiocesan Department of Catholic Education will be contacted immediately in these situations. Generally sexual harassment should be construed as sexual violence when: the recipient is physically touched without his/her consent in a sexual manner; is expressly threatened or perceives as a threat of physical harm for purposes the offender’s sexual gratification; or is the victim of sex offenses under Georgia law. In these cases, the Department of Human Services and the police will be contacted immediately.

Gangs

Youth gangs and gang-‐related activity are prohibited. A gang is defined as any non-‐school sponsored group, usually secret and/or exclusive in membership whose purpose or practices include unlawful or anti-‐social behavior or any action that threatens the welfare of others. Gang activity includes:

o Recruitment o Initiation o A manner of grooming, hairstyle and/or wearing of clothing, jewelry, head

coverings, or accessories, which by virtue of color, arrangement, trademark or other attribute denotes membership in a gang.

STM Equipment Rules

GENERAL: Balls or jump ropes are not permitted on the playground. Running and pushing are not allowed. BOB (BLUE-‐ORANGE-‐BEIGE BARS) or Mr. BRY (Balls and Ropes) 1 (one) person crossing bars hand by hand. No sitting or standing on top of the bars No jumping off of the top of the bars -‐ CLIMB DOWN!

39

Start on the side facing the road or school. No racing on the bars. No pulling a person down who is crossing the bars. ORANGE CURLY Q Climb up and down ONLY! LIMIT -‐ ONLY 1 person on each of these bars. ORANGE POLE Climb up and down ONLY! LIMIT -‐ ONLY 1 person on each of these bars. Be careful when sliding down -‐ DO NOT Land on Someone! SLIDES 1 (one) person goes down the slide at a time. Do not walk, crawl, or run UP the slide. When you are at the top of a slide -‐ don’t waste time -‐ get set and slide down. When you see that the person in front of you gets off of the slide, then it is your turn to go down. There should only be 1 person on the slide at a time -‐ NO TRAINS PERMITTED! When the whistle blows, please bring all equipment back to its proper place! Continuous whistles means FREEZE -‐ Be quiet and listen for further instructions! Pets, such as dogs, are not allowed on the field except for the Pet Blessing in October. PLAYGROUND RULES o Fair play is expected at all times. Games must be open to all asking to play. o Fighting and use of profane or abusive language will result in a conduct

referral. o Students are not allowed near electrical poles, fences, classrooms, windows,

dumpsters, or recycling bins. o Students will stay in assigned areas, and will not leave the playground without

permission. o Students are not allowed to bring balls or other equipment from home. o Students will not throw things over the fence. o Sticks, rocks, and other inappropriate objects are not to be used in a manner

that could do harm. o Students will line up quickly and quietly when the bell rings or whistle blows. o Students will use all playground equipment properly. See STM Equipment Rules. o Spitting is never acceptable on the STM campus.

LUNCHROOM o Students will enter the lunchroom and go through the milk line quietly. o Students will sit at their assigned tables. o Students will talk quietly to the people at their table. o Students may not share food or take food from another's tray or lunchbox.

40

o Students must request permission to leave their seats for the restroom or to be dismissed.

o Students are expected to be courteous and use polite table manners. o Students must clean the tabletop, clean up any food on the floor and seats when

they are dismissed. The student should carry all trash to the trashcans and recycle when necessary.

o No student is allowed to warm food brought from home. o Table washers must check with the teacher on duty when finished washing

the tables. o Students are expected to follow the directions of the adults on duty. o Special permission from the principal is necessary for eating anywhere other

than the cafeteria. o Please have all lunchboxes labeled with child’s name. o Students may sit at any place at the class table. Saving seats is not allowed in

the lunchroom.

Celebrations

ON CAMPUS: We have class parties to celebrate certain holidays. These vary by grade level. Homeroom teachers and room parents will discuss plans for these celebrations. We do not have parties during Lent. BIRTHDAYS:

o A birthday child may come out of uniform on his/her birthday. o On the Primary level only: Simple birthday treats only (no party supplies

or goody bags) supplied by the parents must be coordinated with the Primary homeroom teacher. Birthday treats will be consumed in the child’s homeroom. No treats can be shared in the lunchroom.

As a way to encourage health and wellness and due to various allergies students have, Intermediate students and middle school students will not be permitted to bring birthday treats to share in the classroom. However, these students will still be allowed to dress out of uniform on their birthday. SNACKS: Students are allowed one healthy snack (i.e. all fruit, cheese & crackers, pretzels, veggie sticks-‐ carrots, celery, etc.) to eat during designated snack time daily. Teachers have the right to deny a snack for distractibility and/or healthiness. Snacks are a privilege and can be revoked if needed. FLOWERS AND BALLOONS: Please do not have flowers or balloons delivered to school. These will not be delivered to the student and will remain in the office until dismissal time, when the student may pick them up. INVITATIONS: Invitations for off campus celebration will only be distributed at school

41

when the entire class or grade level has been invited. Invitations for Off Campus parties, please refer to S.T.M. Parents Supporting Parents Guidelines.

Saint Thomas More Catholic School Volunteer Policy

Parent volunteers are an important part of the educational program at Saint Thomas More School. Parents are encouraged to volunteer for special projects, holiday celebrations, field trips, clinic, school office, cafeteria and playground assistance, and regularly scheduled workdays. Volunteers who want to work with children MUST complete all required reading and forms available from the Archdiocese. This includes all people volunteering as coaches for the parish basketball teams. Please go to www.archatl.com and click the Office of Child and Youth Protection Safe Environment Materials for Staff and Volunteers. From there, go to the Volunteer Packet. The completed forms can be returned to STM at the Volunteer Workshop, which is required by the Atlanta Archdiocese. Once orientation is complete, the volunteer’s name will be added to a list of certified school volunteers. This orientation does include background screenings. Volunteers work under the direction of school personnel. The State of Georgia requires by law that any volunteer report all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect of children under eighteen years of age. Georgia Law, Code Section 19-‐7-‐5, requires the reporting of injuries or neglect of minors, provides immunity for those reporting in good faith, and provides for a penalty for violation of the law.

S.T.M. Parents-‐Supporting-‐Parents Guidelines

When a party is planned in my home, there will be no drugs or alcohol served or brought in by guests or tolerated. Smoking will not be tolerated. Liquor in our home will be inaccessible to children. I will be home and visible throughout a party. Older teens should not be the sole chaperones of middle school parties. I will have clear guidelines and boundaries for parties. If a guest brings alcohol, drugs or cigarettes to the party or arrives intoxicated, I will ask the child to remain in my home and I will immediately notify the child’s parents. I will:

• Welcome calls from other parents who have concerns or questions when my child has a party.

• Not hesitate to phone the host’s parents if I have concerns or questions If my child is going to a party.

• Understand that no written or verbal invitation will be extended at Saint

42

Thomas More Catholic School.* • Will inform all invited guests’ parents of party details, location and times. • Will discuss these guidelines with my child. • Will inform other parents if I plan to allow guests to watch videos, movies,

or television programs of questionable content. • Will monitor videos, movie, television programs, computer, and internet,

including Instant Messaging, social network sites, and E-‐mail, and cell phone including texting when children are in my home are viewing or using such technology.

• Will not show movies rated ‘R’. *Invitations may be issued at school if ALL classmates are invited and the homeroom teacher has been notified in advance.

General Uniform Information

SCHOOL WIDE UNIFORM POLICY EFFECTIVE 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR: The STM emblem must be the round STM logo or monogram. The STM shield patch is no longer in compliance with the uniform policy. The STM emblem must be on all shirts, blouses, jumpers, sweaters, PE Uniforms, and jackets. Uniforms must be purchased from Buckhead Uniform or Land’s End (the STM preferred number for Land’s End is 900027962). Buckhead Uniform will know the specific requirements for each item. All uniforms must be sized and worn appropriately regardless of current fashion trends. In the rare case that an allergy exists to the polyester fibers of the uniform, a doctor's note and allergy plan are required in order to deviate from the school's uniform requirements. Uniform items must be replaced if it is: too warn, faded, has holes, or has hemline marks. The uniform must be worn on School Mass days or when students are representing our school. Scout uniforms and basketball shirts/khakis will not be permitted on School Mass days. Students must wear their school uniform on Mass days even if they are scheduled to have PE. Students may come out of uniform if their birthday falls on a Mass Day. Please check the school calendar for school Mass days. The winter uniform may be worn all year; however it may not be interchanged with any part of the summer uniform (i.e. no long pants with white sport shoes). All skort, jumper, and short lengths are to be no more than 2 inches above the knee. Skorts cannot be rolled over.

43

All pants and shorts must fit correctly. They are to be worn at the natural waistline. Students are not permitted to wear shorts that are below the knee. Oxford and polo shirts need to be tucked in properly. Please be sure ALL students’ belongings are labeled with their name. If a student in grades K-‐5 needs a navy sweater, it must have the STM monogrammed emblem. If a student in grades 6-‐8 needs a burgundy sweater, it must have the STM monogrammed emblem. Please note: Only STM apparel is appropriate to wear in school or while attending a school function (on or off campus). PE uniforms will be required for students in grades 3-‐8. If a t-‐shirt is worn under the school shirt, it cannot be showing at the neck, sleeve, or bottom of the shirt. Spirit Wear Days-‐ only STM school logo shirts or solid school color shirts are permitted. Designer print shirts and other school logos are not permitted on STM spirit wear days. Out of Uniform Days (including birthday out of uniform days) T-‐shirts with slogans that do not promote Catholic values of St. Thomas More Catholic School or with sleeves cut out are not permitted. During the months when the winter uniform is required, shorts may not be worn on out of uniform days. No leggings, jeggings, or pajamas are allowed. No low cut shirts, sweaters, or dresses are allowed. Students may wear jeans, but torn or worn jeans are not permitted. No baggy or excessively tight jeans are permitted. Tank tops, spaghetti straps, strapless tops, halter tops, mesh, or see-‐through tops are not permitted. Sleeveless shirts must be at least 3 inches wide on shoulders. Backless shoes (clogs, Birkenstocks, crocs) beach shoes, flip flops, sports sandals, Heelys or other type of skate shoe are not permitted. All shoes must enclose the whole foot. All students are expected to be neat, well groomed, and dressed appropriately.

44

No hats are to be worn inside any building on campus during the school day. Shorts must be no more than 2 inches above the knee and not below the knee. White crew socks are to be crew socks only. No quarter or ankle socks are allowed. Socks must be all white: no logos, designs, or lace permitted. SCOUT UNIFORM AND BASKETBALL TEAM DAYS On scout meeting days all scouts must be in full uniform (e.g. pants, skirts, shirts). Jeans are not a part of the scout uniform. If the troop uniform is only a vest, they may wear this over their school uniform. If students are playing in an STM basketball game on an upcoming weekend, the students may wear the team warm-‐up shirt and khaki slacks. Jeans are not allowed. Students may wear a white long sleeve shirt underneath the shirt on colder days. Note: This is not allowed on Mass days. Socks & Shoes must follow the school uniform policy for scout and basketball team days. DRESS UP OUT OF UNIFORM DAYS Anytime there is a dress up day the 2 inch above the knee rule applies. Dresses must have 3 inch dress straps (no strapless, thin or spaghetti straps without a sweater to cover). Shoes for girls on a dress up day should be flats but if heels are worn, they cannot be more than 2 inch heels. Boys should wear "Sunday best" which would include a jacket and tie or a polo shirt with khaki or dress pants and dress shoes. (No sneakers.) ACCESSORIES JEWELRY Necklaces: Both boys and girls may wear a small thin gold or silver chain and cross or medal. Thick chains, beaded, leather, woven or stone necklaces are not permitted. Bracelets: A wrist watch and one "cause bracelet" may be worn. Only one gold or silver bracelet may be worn. Thick chains, cuffs, beaded, leather, woven or stone bracelets are not permitted. Earrings: Very small gold or silver earrings (smaller than the size of a dime) or small stone (silver, gold, or gemstone) studs may be worn. There is a limit of one earring per ear. No hoop, dangling, or chandelier earrings are allowed. Earrings should be a

45

small and unobtrusive part of the student’s uniform. Rings: Students may wear one ring. HAIR Unusual or dyed hairstyles are not permitted. Girls are not permitted to wear chopsticks/knitting needles or hair pins to put hair up. All boys should have a haircut on a regular basis. Hair may not be pushed back behind the ears, exceed the eyebrows or the top of the collar, or the top of the ears. Boys are not permitted to have ponytails or side burns. MAKEUP AND NAIL POLISH Girls may only wear clear nail polish. Fake nails are not permitted. ONLY 8th gr. girls may wear pale lipstick and an appropriate amount of make-‐up. This includes light foundation and powder. No eyeliner or eye makeup is allowed. ***Please not that because of the unique and constantly changing nature of fashion, the school administration reserves the right to classify any style of dress, grooming, or appearance as inappropriate. If a teacher feels a student is dressed inappropriately, the school will contact the parents of the student and request that the child be picked up and taken home, or the appropriate item(s) be brought to school so the student will be in uniform compliance. Detentions will be assigned for 3 violations to the school dress code. ***

Summer Uniform

Grades K-‐2 Girls: Boys:

Navy or Plaid jumper, navy wrap skort, or navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve Peter Pan blouse Navy privacy shorts for under jumpers (colored shorts not allowed) White crew socks Keds Saddle shoe or Black Mary Jane (style Prodigy) Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for walking short

Navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve knit shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided White crew socks Any ALL white leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed)

46

Grades 3-‐5 Girls: Boys: Plaid skort, navy wrap skort, or navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve oxford shirt White crew socks Navy or white knee socks (not to be worn with shorts) Keds or regular Saddle shoe, or black Mary Jane (style Prodigy) Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for walking short

Navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve knit shirt Blue short-‐sleeve oxford shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided White crew socks Any ALL white leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed)

Grades 6-‐8 Girls: Boys: Navy wrap skort or Navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve oxford shirt Light blue or white polo shirt White crew socks White or navy knee socks (cannot be worn with shorts) Regular Saddle shoes, Tan Bucs, or Sperry Topsider (must be style: Bluefish; color: Linen/Oat) Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for walking short Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories

Navy walking short Blue short-‐sleeve oxford shirt White or blue short-‐sleeve knit shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided White crew socks Any ALL white leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed)

WINTER UNIFORM Grades K-‐2 Girls: Boys: Navy or Plaid jumper or navy skort or slacks Navy privacy shorts allowed under jumpers (colored shorts are not allowed) Blue short or long-‐sleeve Peter Pan blouse Navy sweater White or navy knee socks (Navy socks to be worn with navy slacks) Navy tights

Navy slacks Blue short or long-‐sleeve knit shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided Navy sweater Navy socks Fleece or Evolux jacket-‐optional (outside wear only) Any ALL black leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed) Black or brown Merrills, black K-‐Swiss

47

Fleece or Evolux jacket-‐optional (outside wear only) Keds Saddle shoe or Black Mary Jane (style Prodigy) Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for slacks

or New Balance tennis shoes

Grades 3-‐5 Girls: Boys: Plaid wrap skort, navy wrap skort or navy slacks Blue short or long-‐sleeve oxford shirt Navy sweater Fleece or Evolux jacket-‐optional (outside wear only) White or navy knee socks (Navy socks to be worn with navy slacks) Navy tights Keds or regular Saddle shoe or Black Mary Jane (style Prodigy) Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for slacks

Navy slacks Blue short or long-‐sleeve oxford shirt Blue Short or long-‐sleeve knit shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided Navy sweater Navy socks Fleece or Evolux jacket-‐optional (outside wear only) Any ALL black leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed) Black or brown Merrills, black K-‐Swiss or New Balance tennis shoes

Grades 6-‐8 Girls: Boys: Navy wrap skort, navy slacks, Blue short or long-‐sleeve oxford shirt White or navy knee socks (Navy socks to be worn with navy slacks) Navy tights Burgundy sweater Burgundy fleece jacket-‐optional (outside wear only Regular Saddle shoes, Tan Bucs, or Sperry Topsider (must be style: Bluefish; color: Linen/Oat) Plaid or school color (navy, white, or gold) hair accessories Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided for slacks

Navy slacks Blue short or long-‐sleeve oxford shirt Belt: Navy stretch or black/brown leather or braided Tie Burgundy sweater Navy socks Burgundy fleece jacket-‐optional (outside wear only) Any ALL black leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed) Tan bucs, black loafers, black K-‐Swiss or New Balance tennis shoes, or Sperry Topsider (style A/O) Sahara

48

PE Uniform

Grades 3-‐8 On PE days students in grades 3-‐8 will be required to wear a PE uniform. All PE uniforms must have STM logo. PE Uniform Summer PE Uniform Winter Gray short-‐sleeve t-‐shirt Navy mesh short Any ALL white leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed) White crew socks

Gray short or long-‐sleeve t-‐shirt Navy sweat pants (open or closed bottom) Navy or Ash crew neck sweat shirt Any ALL white leather shoes (no color logos or sides of shoes allowed) White crew socks

***If a student in grades K-‐5 needs a navy sweater, it must have the STM monogrammed emblem. If a student in grades 6-‐8 needs a burgundy sweater, it must have the STM monogrammed emblem. Please note: Only STM apparel is appropriate to wear in school or while attending a school function (on or off campus). ***

Academic Responsibility

GRADING SCALE A-‐ 90-‐100 B-‐ 80-‐89 C-‐ 75-‐79 D-‐ 70-‐74 F-‐ 69 and below ASSESSMENT: Saint Thomas More students are assessed using age-‐appropriate and varied methods. These may include portfolios, special projects, classroom work, teacher observations, formative and summative assessments, as well as curriculum-‐based test and standardized testing. Middle School Students are required to take cumulative exams at the end of each semester. St. Thomas More 1st-‐7th grade students take the Iowa Assessments every March. Grades two, five and seven take the Cognitive Abilities test. Grades 5 and 8 take the A.C.R.E. (Assessment of Catechesis/Religious Education) exams. For any accommodations on standardized assessments, students must have an evaluation currently on file with the school and utilize the accommodation on a regular basis throughout the school year.

49

CLASSROOM: Since study skills are an important part of the learning process a student must be responsible for certain aspects of his/her academic development. Parents will be notified when a student does not accept responsibility for the following:

o Homework/class work/long-‐term project completed and/or handed in. o Satisfactory work/tests. o Tests/assignments signed and returned when requested.

The student will be expected to bring back a response from the parent the day after notification. *Depending on the age and grade of the student, teachers notify parents in a variety of ways, such as the student’s weekly folder, the assignment book/planner, email, phone calls, progress reports etc. Expectations about communication with the home will be explained at Welcome Back Night(s) in the fall.

o Students are expected to be on task and to be active participants in the learning process.

o Students will not be given ‘extra credit’ work in order to raise a low test score. FIELD TRIPS: Time on task is essential to academic success; consequently our school takes field trips with a clear educational purpose. Field trips are privileges. Students may be denied participation if they fail to meet behavioral expectations. No student will be allowed to participate on a field trip without a signed parental/guardian consent form. Consent forms will be sent home prior to all trips notifying parents of the location, date and times that a student will be away from the Saint Thomas More School campus. OVER-‐THE-‐PHONE PERMISSION OR FAXED PERMISSION SLIPS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Students are expected to wear neat, clean, freshly pressed uniforms at all times but especially when the students leave the campus for a field trip. HOMEWORK: Homework serves an integral and vital role in the learning process, and aids in the student’s academic growth and development. It is a chance for students to review and master the skills learned in class. It also teaches self-‐discipline. A regular time and place for home studying should be provided. Study is an essential element of learning. Excessive amounts of time spent on homework may be the result of neglect in previously assigned work, misunderstood directions, poor study habits or a learning disability. Parents should check with homeroom or subject teachers when they have homework questions.

50

Homework Policy

KINDERGARTEN Homework is assigned one night per week FIRST GRADE 15 to 30 minutes of homework 4 nights. Projects and book

reports will be assigned throughout the year. In third quarter, homework will be assigned on week-‐ends. Assignment books are required and will be provided.

SECOND GRADE 15-‐30 minutes of homework 4 nights a week and nightly reading.

Assignment books are required and will be provided. THIRD GRADE 30-‐60 minutes of homework 4 or 5 nights a week. Special

projects will be assigned throughout the year. Assignment books are required and will be provided.

FOURTH GRADE 30-‐60 minutes of homework 4 or 5 nights a week. Special

projects will be assigned throughout the year. Assignment books are required & will be provided.

FIFTH GRADE 60-‐90 minutes of homework 5 nights a week. Special projects will

be assigned throughout the year. Long-‐term assignments will be assigned as well. Assignment books are required & will be provided.

MIDDLE SCHOOL 6th Graders should expect 60-‐120 minutes of homework each

night. Students in Grades 7 and 8 should expect -‐120 minutes of homework each night. Students will have a variety of long-‐term assignments. Course syllabi will be given to parents at the beginning of the school year. Activity Period may have homework requirements. Students are required to make up work they have missed.

There is a much lighter homework load during the Iowa Assessments and CogAT testing in March.

Conferences

Conferences are scheduled in the fall and are mandatory for all families. Grades 3-‐8 are required to attend conferences. Middle school conferences often include several teachers. See conference information given in COMMUNICATION WITH THE SCHOOL, page 19-‐20. At the discretion of the principal or assistant principal, other faculty members may be requested to sit in on parent conferences.

51

MIDDLE SCHOOL RETEST POLICY Purpose: The purpose and intent of the policy is to provide specific students with additional opportunities to show mastery of the content. These students have psychological testing on file or have been referred by teacher(s) to the Student Success Team during their current school year. Definition of test: A test is defined as any student work placed in the major grade category; a summative assessment. Policy:

• Only students with testing or referred to SST will have a retest opportunity.

• Teacher must approve; retest policy per teacher's discretion, as retest are not mandatory.

• Score below a 70% on original test will be eligible to retest (70% does not qualify for retest).

• Students must complete request for retest paperwork including: o List of three activities student will do to improve understanding of

concept o Requested attached items (previous test & proof of 3 activities) o Student and parent signature

• Student must request the retest within three class days of the teacher notifying him/her of the failing grade (entering the grade on-‐line should be considered notification).

• Student must complete retest before next summative assessment. • The student may be required to attend a study session, complete test

corrections, or other task as directed by the teacher, prior to retesting. • The retest will cover the same material of the original test, however the

test may be in the different format with questions changed. • Student is responsible for following through with retest; not teacher's

responsibility. • Students caught cheating on a test may not request a retest. • The original test score and the retest score will be averaged for the new

overall grade. • If a student scores lower on the retest, the two test grades will still be

averaged. • All semester final exams are ineligible for retest.

Interim and Grade Reporting

Interim reports are available for review via Sycamore at midpoint during a grading period to show student progress; however, Sycamore allows parent access of grades at any point throughout the school year. For grades 2-‐8, parents are requested to view

52

the grades four times per year at the midpoint of each quarter. It is the parent’s responsibility to view grades at interim time via Sycamore and contact the teacher if there are questions and about grades. At the end of each quarter, all students in grades K-‐8 receive a report card. The archdiocesan grading scale is used. The Archdiocesan Manual states that parents may make inquiries as to the assessments which resulted in the cumulative grade on a report card. However, grade changes should not be made unless academic evidence warrants such a change. Furthermore, despite parent requests, comments will not be modified or deleted. Parents must notify the school within (5) business days upon receipt of the report card if there is a concern with a grade. Parents have access to an on-‐line service called Sycamore to see posted grades for their student.

Accommodations

Accommodations are considered only if a student has had psycho-‐educational testing, and academic or behavioral recommendations have been made. Examples of accommodations that may be recommended are decreased work load, or a modified behavior system. For standardized assessments, students must utilize the accommodation on a regular basis all school year and have an evaluation on file at the school.

Failure of Core Subjects/Retention/Summer School

The decision to retain a student in the present grade shall be based upon the consideration of the overall welfare of the student, i.e., made by carefully weighing academic, emotional, and social factors. Retention is more successful in primary grades (K-‐2) than in later grades. In the case of a student with significant learning or behavioral differences, it may be necessary to recognize that the parochial school is not equipped to meet the needs of every student and that an alternate placement might be necessary. Parents will be notified in the second or third quarter if the report card grades indicate that the student may fail the subject. Students in the intermediate or middle grades (intermediate: grades 3-‐5; middle school: grades 6 -‐ 8) may not fail (definition: earned grade of 69% and below as a final year average) more than three core courses in one academic year. Should a student fail three or more courses in an academic year, alternative educational placement will be required. Students who fail one or two core subjects in one academic year will be required to remediate the coursework according to the parameters set by the school. Failure to successfully remediate according to school guidelines indicates the parents’ choice to seek alternative educational placement.

53

Students in intermediate or middle school who have failed two courses in one academic year, and who have successfully remediated, may return to the school in the following year with the status of academic probation. Should a student fail one core subject (final year average) within the year while on academic probation, alternative educational placement will be required. It should be noted that academic failure in any core subject may adversely impact a student’s ability to attend an archdiocesan Catholic high school. CORE COURSES ARE DEFINED AS: religion, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science. IN ADDITION FOR MIDDLE GRADES: Teachers provide rubrics and grades (S, N, U) that indicate that the content has successfully been met for all special classes such as PE, Music, Art, Library, Computer, and Spanish. Please encourage your students to take all special classes seriously and be on their best behavior. It is a privilege to participate in these classes. Summer school sessions in language arts, math and other subjects are sometimes offered for STM students needing remediation. Teachers may require summer school attendance, or in some cases, may recommend summer school or a tutoring program. Parents will be notified during the third quarter if this is recommended for their student. Information on summer school dates and fees will be made available in March/April, if classes will be offered at STM. The staff may recommend that a student be retained in the present grade if there is sufficient academic and/or personal need. Performance in reading, language arts and math will be very closely considered when determining readiness for the next grade.

Absences/Make-‐up Policy

In accordance with our academic standards, the faculty suggests that absences be limited. It is the responsibility of students in grades 3-‐8, to talk with their teachers and arrange to make-‐up all work missed, i.e., tests, and projects, due to illness, tardiness, or early dismissal. This includes Activity Period classes and special classes in middle school.

o No homework or books will be sent home the first day of a student’s absence. If the child has been ill for the day, we would expect that they rest and recover instead of worrying about their schoolwork.

o If the student misses a second day of class due to illness, please e-‐mail the homeroom teacher prior to 7:45 a.m. that morning to request books. Your student may feel up to doing some of their homework. In most cases, books

54

can be sent to the school office to be picked up by a sibling or carpool friend, or parents can pick up after dismissal. However, in the normal course of the school day many interruptions occur that may prevent books and assignments from making their way to the school office. Please know we try our best, but sometimes messages don’t get through to the proper people on time.

o Your student should have the phone numbers of several friends whom they can call to get homework assignments. When your children return to their classroom, they can talk with their teacher to make up required work.

o In grades 5-‐8, when a student returns to school following a one-‐day absence, he/she is expected to take any previously assigned test or quiz on the day of return. The student has had ample notice of those assignments.

o Teachers in grades K-‐4 will make arrangements with the student to take tests when they are ready.

o For absences exceeding one day, the following schedule for make-‐up is operative:

o 2 days absent = 2 school days permitted to make up work. o 3 days absent = 3 school days permitted to make up work o 4 days absent = 4 school days permitted to make up work

o For prolonged illness or frequent absences alternate arrangements may be made at the teacher’s discretion. Incomplete grades will be issued if student has an excessive amount of absences during a grading period.

o If a student is taken out of school before the end of the academic year and classwork and final exams are not completed prior to the departure of the student, the student is subject to Incompletes on their final report card.

o Incompletes may change to failing grades if arrangements are not made to fulfill requirements.

Policy for Planned Absences (i.e. Family Vacations) Vacations during the school year are strongly discouraged because make up work does not replace all the experiential learning that takes place at all grade levels. Also, classes in grades 5-‐8 move at a quicker pace. Students are expected to make up all missed lessons; i.e., homework, class notes, assignments, projects, quizzes, tests etc. When a student is absent their mastery of subject material, and perhaps their grade, may be affected. When an absence is planned, such as a family vacation, the parent/guardian is required to send a letter or an email to the homeroom teacher one week in advance of the planned absence. Teachers are not expected to comply with homework/ assignment requests if not given the proper notice. It cannot be done the day before the student leaves. GRADES K-‐4 The homeroom teacher will let the special teachers know how long the student will be away. Arrangements about making up missed work/tests and whether the student will take work with them will be up to the discretion of the teacher.

55

GRADES 5-‐8 Student Responsibilities before leaving for the Planned Absence:

1. Turn in the letter from parent explaining absence, and how many days will be missed.

2. Obtain the Planned Absence Form, found on the STM website. 3. Take the Planned Absence Form to all teacher/s to receive projected

assignments. We expect that all students will follow this plan. However, because of the age of the students in K-‐ 4, arrangements about making up missed work/tests, and whether the student will take work with them, will be up to the discretion of the teacher. Please note that homework grows from class work. Teachers adjust lessons daily due to class understanding/interaction. It is possible that the student may return to a schedule different than originally planned. Student responsibilities when returning from a Planned Absence: 1. The first day back the student is to report to teacher/s to turn in work. 2. Ask teacher/s if there is additional make-‐up work. 3. Set up a time with the teacher to take quizzes and/or tests missed. 4. The student is responsible for getting caught up in the time allowed. If the

absence was three days, the student will have three days to complete make-‐up work and take quizzes and/or tests.

No teacher is expected to meet with students outside of normal class time to make up work due to absenteeism resulting from family vacations. Math Placement Requirements for Pre-‐Algebra and Algebra Courses Middle school students who engage in the study of Algebra as their mathematics requirements must meet the same standards as do high school students who study Algebra. The Georgia Department of Education requires: • A minimum of 150 hours of instruction annually • Curriculum based on an approved course of study Additionally, the Office of Catholic Schools requires Algebra instructors at the elementary (middle school) level to have: • Secondary mathematics certification or • Middle grades certification with thirty (30) hours of college-‐level mathematics courses exclusive of education coursework. These credits may be at the undergraduate level. Parents wishing their student(s) to study Algebra will need to consider the following when consenting to Algebra placement at the elementary school: • Students who meet the entrance criteria and achieve within the appropriate range may be accelerated into the next level of study in mathematics upon

56

admission to high school. Any acceleration is at the sole discretion of the public, private or parochial school. • Students who receive accelerated placement in an archdiocesan high school must still complete four credits in mathematics as defined by the school’s graduation requirement. • Students may be asked to complete an exit exam at the completion of their middle school coursework. Eligibility Requirements • Minimum score of 80% on the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Assessment • Minimum NPR score of 80%tile on the IA Mathematics test • Minimum NPR score of 80%tile on the IA Computation test • Minimum average score of 85% on Math course tests during the current year • Minimum average score of 85% in Mathematics on report cards during the current year • Student must demonstrate consistent, successful completion of homework and positive classroom performance as defined by the mathematics teacher. IA=Iowa Assessment NPR=National Percentile Rank By Archdiocesan policy managed by the Office of Catholic Schools, students must meet five of the six criteria above in order to be eligible for advanced placement into Pre-‐Algebra at 7th grade and/or Algebra at 8th grade. The school’s principal may exercise discretion in placing a student into an appropriate course upon review of the student’s performance records and Cognitive Ability (CogAt) Quantitative score as presented on the Iowa Assessment. The suggested benchmark by which to measure potential readiness for the advanced course is a Quantitative score with a stanine of 7. Continuation in any math course is at the discretion of the teacher and administrators; the Archdiocese does not have a minimum requirement for a student to remain in a course.

Media Services

The media center supports the school curriculum and provides opportunities for student research and reading for pleasure. HOURS: 7:45 a.m. -‐ 3:30 p.m. Monday and Friday 8:00 a.m. -‐ 2:00 p.m. Wednesday 7:45 a.m. -‐ 4:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday

CIRCULATION REGULATIONS There are no limits on the number of books students may check out, except for Kindergarten who are allowed 2 books. We ask that the students be responsible and only check out what they think they will need for a week or two.

57

Check out periods: K – 2: 1 week Grade 3 – 8th: 2 weeks We no longer assess fines for late books. Reference books circulate overnight. They can be checked out at the end of the day and must be returned by 8:30 am. Expectations for behavior are discussed with each class using the Media Center. Students who persist in breaking rules will be denied use of the Media Center. Accelerated Reader Program STM participates in the Accelerated Reader Program (AR), a computerized reading management program that motivates students to read good and more challenging books. The program’s premise is that children become better readers by practice. Motivation is provided by the computer format and awarding of points. After reading an AR book, the student takes a straightforward computerized test of ten to twenty questions. The computer scores the test and awards points based on the number of correct answers and the length and reading level of the book. The computer also prints results for the student and maintains records showing progress from year to year. We believe that students should be rewarded for AR achievement by praise and recognition rather than material rewards. They are recognized for their AR achievement at honor assemblies. The honors take two forms. They are honored for the quantity of reading they have done with membership in Point Clubs when the have accumulated 25 (Kindergarten-‐ grade 5), 50, 100, 200 and 300, etc. points. To encourage them to read more challenging books, they are also recognized when they qualify for each of the following levels of certification:

o Ready Reader: minimum of 5 points (K-‐2 ONLY) o Independent Reader -‐ minimum of 10 points and has read and passed tests on 3

books without help from parents and teachers (K -‐ 3) o Super Reader -‐ minimum of 15 points which includes at least 3 books worth

one or more points each (K -‐ 3). o Advanced Reader -‐ minimum of 20 points, which includes at least 3 books

worth 2 or more points each. o Star Reader -‐ minimum of 100 points which includes at least three books on

the fifth grade reading level, each worth 5 points or more. o Classic Reader -‐ minimum of 100 points, which includes at least three books

on a seventh grade reading level worth 10 points or more each.

58

Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy

St. Thomas More Catholic School (STM) offers Internet access to its students on a limited basis. The Internet is an electronic highway connecting computers and individuals all over the world. We believe that providing teachers and students access to the Internet will enhance our goal of educational excellence by providing information, which was previously unavailable to us, and by fostering the exchange of ideas. With access to such a broad base of information and people comes the possibility that inappropriate materials, not consistent with STM’s educational goals, may be made available. We hope that Internet filters, strict guidelines for use, and close supervision will minimize such possibilities. Further, we believe that access to valuable information far outweighs any dangers that may occur to users or their parents. Smooth operation of the Internet relies upon the proper conduct of all users. It is the purpose of the Internet Use Policy to insure that Internet access is used appropriately and in a manner consistent with the school’s educational goals and philosophy. It is the policy of St. Thomas More Catholic School to require ethical use of the Internet and related technologies by all employees, volunteers, and students as set forth below. Access privileges may be revoked; school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action taken for any violations that are unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. The School Administration reserves the right to examine all data at any time. The most important prerequisite for Internet access at STM is that each user takes full responsibility for his or her own actions. St. Thomas More School and the sponsor of this Internet connection will not be liable for the actions of anyone connecting to the Internet through this hook-‐up. All users shall assume full liability, legal, financial or otherwise, for their actions. The signing of this document is legally binding and indicates the parties who signed it have read the terms and conditions carefully and understand their significance. This contract will be continuously in force and enforced at St. Thomas More School. Internet – Terms and Conditions of Use 1. Acceptable Use -‐ The primary purpose of the Internet connection and related technologies is to support education by providing access to unique resources and an opportunity for collaborative work. Its use must be consistent with the educational objectives and consistent with the philosophy, educational and religious objectives of the school. Electronic communications to or from St. Thomas More School should reflect the Christian principles and educational goals of the school. Use of other organizations networks or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for these networks. 2. Unacceptable Use -‐ Transmission of any material in violation of any state or national regulation is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. Use

59

for commercial activities is not acceptable. Use for product advertisement, political lobbying, unauthorized game playing, unauthorized chat, or chain letter communication is also prohibited. Other examples of unacceptable information are pornography, information on bombs, inappropriate language and communications, and bullying or harassment of any type. Use of personal social networking sites is prohibited and only educational social networking sites may be accessed on school computers. All users shall assume full liability, legal, financial, or otherwise for their actions. 3. Privileges – The use of the Internet and related technologies is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in cancellation of Internet privileges. The Technology Coordinator, supervising teachers and school administrators will have authority to deny, revoke or suspend access to users for deliberate misuse or inappropriate behavior. The school also reserves the right to log Internet use and to examine data at any time. 4. Security – Because security on any computer system is a high priority, students have a duty to abide by St. Thomas More School policies regarding logging in and out of our network. Each student in Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade will have a group login tied to the computer lab. Each student from 3rd through 8th grade will have an individual log in ID and password that must be used when using computers at school. Students must also log off when they are finished using the computer, as violations of this policy are the responsibility of the user who is logged in at the time of the violation. Because of this, students should never share their password or other log in information with anyone except their teacher. Students also have a duty to report any inappropriate use or security problem to the Technology Coordinator or teacher. A student’s attempt to use administrative functions will result in cancellation of his or her user privileges. Students will notify their teacher or the Technology Coordinator if an individual is trying to contact him/her for illicit or suspicious activities. 5. Warranties – St. Thomas More Catholic School makes no warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, for the Internet service it is providing. This includes loss of data and non-‐delivery or service interruptions. The school also denies responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information received from the Internet. 6. Copyright – It is the policy of St. Thomas More School that all employees, volunteers, and students will abide by the federal copyright law. Employees, volunteers, and students may copy print or non-‐print materials allowed by: copyright law, fair use guidelines, specific licenses or contractual agreements, and other types of permission. All school software must be properly purchased or donated, including licenses. Employees, volunteers, and students who willfully disregard copyright law are in violation of St. Thomas More School policy, doing so at their own risk and assuming all liability. 7. Netiquette – Students are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette including the following:

• Computers must be treated with respect. No computer should ever be physically vandalized. Students must never install or remove any software (computer programs) on a school computer without teacher permission. All software on school computers is copyrighted, which means students are not

60

allowed to copy, share or change programs in any way. • Users are expected to be courteous and use appropriate language. The use of

obscenities, vulgarities, profanities or harassing statements is strictly forbidden on the Internet just as it is in all other situations at school.

• Users should be careful to disclose only information pertinent to the topic they are researching. They should refrain from disclosing any personal information about themselves or others, such as their address, phone number or credit card number.

• E-‐mail at school is to be used solely for educational purposes. Users should also remember that electronic mail is not private and that administration will have access to all e-‐mail.

• Users are not to use the network in a way that disrupts the use by other people. Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of another user, the Internet, or any other network is considered to be vandalism and is strictly forbidden. Unauthorized use of another’s computer, access accounts, and/or files, is prohibited. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data or passwords belonging to other users or misrepresent other users on the network. Malicious use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software components of the computer or computer system is prohibited.

• Users will acknowledge that all information accessible via the Internet is assumed to be private property. Plagiarism, using material created by someone else without permission or acknowledgement, is forbidden. Students shall be responsible for citing Internet resources and respecting copyrighted material.

• Users are not permitted to access personal social networking sites at school. Students must refrain from mentioning the name of St. Thomas More School on those sites and from posting pictures of other STM students without their permission. In addition, they must abide by the discipline and conduct codes of STM found in this handbook while on their personal social networking site.

8. Guidelines for Use of STM Internet Service – Students must accept the following rules for Internet use in school:

• I understand that I must have a signed policy on file before Internet privileges will be granted.

• I understand that I will not reveal my personal home address, phone number, or personal information about anyone else. User’s personal identifier on email must use the school address only.

• I know that use of the Internet and computers is a privilege and not a right and I agree to follow the guidelines and rules established by STM for its use.

• I will not share my user ID or password with any other student. • I will have approval from my teacher for all topics that I research on the

Internet and will present evidence of this to the Technology Coordinator before using the Internet if requested by teacher.

• I will use the Internet only when an adult is present to supervise. • I will properly log in and log out when using any computer at St. Thomas More.

61

Violations of this policy that occur under my login are my responsibility. • I will not enter a chat room, divulge personal information about others, or

myself or play unauthorized "arcade-‐style" games online. • If I find myself in an uncomfortable or inappropriate situation on the Internet, I

will stop immediately and tell a teacher in charge. • I will only use a network account if I am the authorized owner of the account

for the authorized purpose. • I will not make changes to the set-‐up or application settings on the computer. • I acknowledge that plagiarism is unacceptable and will be responsible for citing

sources used on the Internet. • I will follow all rules and procedures.

Please keep Internet Use Policy on file for future reference. By signing the Student Handbook Form, the student understands and agrees to abide by St. Thomas More School's Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy. The student assumes responsibility for their actions in accessing network services and understands that any violation committed may result in access privileges being revoked and school disciplinary and appropriate legal action may be taken. By signing the Student Handbook Form, the parent or guardian of this student agrees that they have read St. Thomas More School’s Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy and hereby give permission for the student to be given access to the Internet. The parent or guardian of this students understands that access to the Internet is designed for educational purposes and that precautions have been taken to reduce student exposure to inappropriate material. The parent or guardian of this student will not hold the school or any employee responsible for any material acquired on the network. If the parent or guardian disapproves of any material this student receives on the Internet, they understand that may withdraw permission for access to the Internet in writing. St. Thomas More Catholic School iPad Acceptable Use Policy St. Thomas More Catholic School (STM) Middle School students are provided with an STM issued iPad to use at school and at home to complete classwork and homework. The iPad enhances learning and teaching at STM. Each middle school student will be issued an iPad with required applications (apps). STM will automatically push all apps needed by the students during the school year. Middle School students and parents are required to review this policy and sign the Student Handbook Form to acknowledge that they understand and agree to abide by St. Thomas More School's iPad Acceptable Use Policy. Technology resources at STM are provided for the purpose of supporting the

62

educational mission of the School. The School’s goal in providing the iPad is to promote educational excellence: by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, research, creativity, communication, increased productivity, and mobile learning. Use of these technologies is a privilege that carries responsibility and behavioral expectations consistent with all school rules and policies, including but not limited to those stated in the STM Student Handbook. It is understood that members of the STM School community will use all types of computing devices and the School’s network in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner at all times. The iPad is school property and all users will follow this policy and the STM Acceptable Use policy for technology. STM retains sole right of possession of the iPad and related equipment. The iPad will be issued to students according to the guidelines in this document. Teachers may set additional requirements for use in their classroom. STM retains the right to collect and/or inspect a student iPad at any time, and to change, add, or delete installed software or hardware. 1. iPADS 1.1 Receiving Your iPad iPads will be distributed at the beginning of the school year to students in grades 6-‐8. Parents and students must sign and return the School Handbook Form and the Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy, and the technology fee must be paid before the iPad will be issued to the student. Each student in grades 6-‐8 will be assigned an iPad, iPad charging cable, charging block, keyboard case, and nylon carrying case. 1.2 iPad Turn-‐in iPads and all accessories will be returned during the final week of school. Students who transfer, withdraw, or are suspended or expelled from STM during the school year must turn in the iPad and all accessories before leaving STM. 1.3 Turn-‐in Fines If a student fails to return the iPad and all accessories at the end of the school year or upon termination of enrollment at STM, that student will be billed for the replacement cost of the iPad and/or accessories, or, if applicable, any insurance deductible. Furthermore, the student will be responsible for any damage to the iPad, consistent with the School’s iPad Protection plan. The student will be charged a fee for any needed repairs, not to exceed the replacement cost of the iPad and/or accessories. 2. TAKING CARE OF YOUR IPAD Students are responsible for the general care of the iPad they have been assigned by

63

STM. The iPad is provided for the sole use of the student to which it is assigned. Do not loan out the iPad, charger/sync cable, or keyboard case to other individuals. iPads that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken to the Technology Coordinator within 1 school day for an evaluation. 2.1 General Precautions

• Cords and cables must be inserted carefully into the iPad to prevent damage. • iPads must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are

not the property of STM. • iPads must never be left in an unlocked locker, unlocked car, school cubbies

or any unsupervised area. • iPads should not be unsupported if being used in the viewing mode. • iPads should remain in the school issued protective case at all times. • Students may not use 'skins' or 'wraps' to personalize their iPads.

2.2 Carrying iPads The protective case provided with the iPad has sufficient padding to protect the iPad from normal treatment and provide an easy way to carry the device. The guidelines below should be followed:

• iPads should always be in the school provided carrying case when carried. When at school, use the carrying case by hanging the handles over your wrist to reduce the chance of dropping the iPad.

• iPads should not be placed in book bags or backpacks. • Do not carry other items, such as pencils or cosmetics in the carrying case with

the iPad. • Avoid placing too much pressure and/or weight (such as folders and

workbooks) on the iPad screen.

2.3 Screen Care The iPad screen is very sensitive to damage from excessive pressure placed on the screen and can be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. These guidelines for screen care should be followed:

• Do not lean on the iPad when it is closed. • Do not place anything near the iPad that could put pressure on the screen. • Do not place anything in the carrying case that will press against the cover. • Do not leave the iPad on the floor where it can be stepped on. • Use only a soft, lint-‐free cloth to clean the screen similar to an eyeglass

cleaning cloth. Avoid abrasive cloths, towels, paper towels, and similar items that might cause damage.

• Unplug all cables before placing the iPad in its carrying case. • Close the iPad so that the screen is protected before placing the iPad in the

carrying case. • Keep liquids away from the iPad

64

• Do not use any type of liquid to clean the screen. • Do not bump the iPad against lockers, walls, car doors, floors, etc. as it will

break the screen. 3. USING YOUR IPAD AT SCHOOL Student iPads are intended for use at school each day. In addition to teacher expectations for iPad use, school messages, announcements, planners, calendars and schedules may be accessed using the iPad. Students must be responsible to bring their iPad, fully charged, to all classes, unless specifically instructed not to do so by their teacher. Students who repeatedly (three or more times in a quarter) fail to bring the iPad to school or maintain a fully charged battery will lose the privilege of the iPad for a time to be determined by the principal. 3.1 iPads Left at Home If a student leaves his/her iPad at home, they are responsible for getting the course work completed as if they had their iPad present. Loaner iPads will not be available to students who forget to bring their iPad to school or fail to charge their iPad. 3.2 iPad Undergoing Repair A loaner iPad may be issued to students, if available, when their assigned iPad has been sent for repair. All iPad policy agreements remain in effect for the loaner iPad. 3.3 Charging Your iPad iPads must be brought to school each day with a fully charged battery. Students need to charge their iPad at home each evening. Portable chargers are not to be used in class or kept in iPad carrying cases. Charging stations are not available in the classrooms. 3.4 Passcodes iPads will be passcode protected with a passcode that will be set by the student during iPad orientation. This passcode will be kept on record with the Technology Coordinator and may not be changed without permission. Students should not share this passcode with anyone except their parents and school administrators. 3.5 Photos & Videos Photo and video storage on the iPad will be for school projects only. Storage of personal photos, videos or downloaded images is not allowed. 3.6 Sound, Music, Games, or Programs

• Students may not download music from iTunes or any other music sharing site unless directed by or with the permission of a teacher.

• Music is only allowed on the iPad if provided by the teacher for educational use.

65

• Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes.

• Students must bring their own ear buds to use with their iPad. Large headphones are not permitted.

• The device can only be synced with a school provided iTunes account.

3.7 Printing Printing may be available with the iPad. Students will be given information and instructions on printing with the iPad at school. Printing at home will require a wireless printer. If an app is necessary for printing at home, the student must contact the Technology Coordinator to have the app installed. 3.8 Home Internet Access Students can connect to wireless networks on their iPad in order to use their iPad while at home. All internet traffic is filtered when the iPad is used at home or off campus. 4. MANAGING YOUR FILES & SAVING YOUR WORK 4.1 Backing Up Student Work It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that work is not lost due to mechanical failure or accidental deletion. iPad malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse for not submitting work; therefore, students should back up all work to Google Drive. 4.2 Network Connectivity STM makes no guarantee that the school wireless network will be up and running 100% of the time. 5. APPS ON IPADS 5.1 Originally Installed Apps STM will configure the iPads with the necessary apps for school work. Students may not configure iPads or add apps through a personal iTunes account. The software and apps originally installed by STM must remain on the iPad in usable condition and be easily accessible at all times. The school will periodically add or modify applications for school use as needed. 5.2 Inspection Students may be selected at random to provide their iPad for inspection by the school principal or assistant principal. 5.3 Procedure for Reloading Apps If non-‐STM approved app are found on a student iPad, the iPad will be restored to the default STM profile. STM does not accept responsibility for the loss of any software or documents deleted due to an iPad restore. In this event, the student may

66

lose the privilege of iPad use. 5.4 Software Updates Updated versions of licensed software/apps are available from time to time. Students may be required to check in their iPads to the Technology Coordinator for periodic updates. 6. ACCEPTABLE USE The use of STM technology resources is a privilege, not a right. The use of all STM technology resources must be consistent with the educational objectives of STM and all policies and practices of STM. Violations of this may result in the suspension or loss of school related accounts, loss of Internet access, or in other forms of disciplinary action. If applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved. 6.1 Parent/Guardian Responsibilities Talk to your children about values and the standards that your children should follow on the use of the Internet just as you do on the use of all media information sources such as television, telephones, movies, and radio. 6.2 School Responsibilities are to:

• Provide Internet and email access to its students • Provide data storage through Google Drive. STM reserves the right to

review, monitor, and restrict information stored on or transmitted via STM owned equipment and to investigate inappropriate use of resources.

• Routinely monitor internet usage and review any communications on its systems.

6.3 Students Responsibilities are to: • Use all technology resources in a responsible and ethical manner. • Obey general school rules concerning behavior and communication that

apply to all technology use. • Help STM protect our computer system/device by contacting an

administrator about any security problems they may encounter. • Monitor all activity on their accounts. • Turn off and secure their iPad after they are finished working to protect

their work and information. • Print a copy of any email containing inappropriate or abusive language or

if the subject matter is questionable, and turn in to administration. • Return their iPad to the Technology Coordinator at the end of each school

year. Students who transfer, withdraw, are suspended or expelled from STM for any reason must return their STM owned iPad prior to leaving STM.

67

6.4 Student Activities Strictly PROHIBITED: • Illegal use of copyrighted materials • Any action that violates existing School policy or public law • Sending, accessing, uploading, downloading, or distributing offensive,

profane, threatening, pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit materials • Use of chat rooms, sites selling term papers, book reports and other forms

of student work • Use of any messaging services not authorized by STM • Use of non-‐educational games without the permission of a teacher • "Jailbreaking" of your iPad • Spamming or sending mass or inappropriate emails • Gaining access to other student’s accounts, files, and/or data • Use of the school’s internet/E-‐mail accounts for financial or commercial

gain or for any illegal activity. • Participation in any forms of illegal behavior • Vandalism or any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware,

software or data, including, but not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or computer programs that can infiltrate computer systems and/or damage software components of school equipment will not be allowed.

• Bypassing STM's web filter through a web proxy • Using use another student’s iPad, passcode, or email account

6.5 iPad Care Students will be held responsible for maintaining their individual iPad and keeping it in good working order.

• iPad must be charged and ready for school each day. • iPad case furnished by the school must be returned with only normal wear

and no alterations to avoid paying a replacement fee. • Protective keyboard case furnished by the school must be returned with

only normal wear and no alterations to avoid paying a replacement fee. Students will be held responsible for any intentional damage to the keyboard.

STM is responsible for repairing iPads that malfunction. iPads that have been damaged from student misuse, neglect or are accidentally damaged will be repaired with insurance deductible cost to be paid by the student. Students will be responsible for the entire cost of repairs to iPads that are damaged intentionally. If an iPad is lost or stolen, it must be reported immediately to the administration. 6.6 Legal Propriety Comply with trademark and copyright laws and all license agreements. If you are

68

unsure, ask a teacher or parent. Plagiarism is a violation of the STM Code of Conduct. Give credit to all sources used, whether quoted or summarized. This includes all forms of media on the Internet, such as graphics, movies, music, and text. Use or possession of hacking software is strictly prohibited and violators will be subject to the STM Student/Parent Handbook. Violation of applicable state or federal law will result in disciplinary action. 6.7 Student Discipline If a student violates any part of the iPad policy, he/she will receive a consequence to be determined by the classroom teacher and/or administration.

• Minor Infractions: student will get a 15 point deduction on conduct card • Major Infractions: student may receive a detention, conduct referral, or

lose iPad privileges for a specified period of time 7. PROTECTING & STORING YOUR IPAD 7.1 iPad Identification Student iPads will be labeled by the school. Identification labels should not be removed from the iPad at any time. iPads can be identified in the following ways: • Serial number • STM school label 7.2 Storing Your iPad When students are not using their iPads at school, they should be stored securely in each classroom. Students should take their iPads home every day after school, regardless of whether or not they are needed. iPads should not be stored in a student’s vehicle. If a student needs a secure place to store their iPad, they may check it in for storage with the School Office. 7.3 iPads Left in Unsupervised Areas Under no circumstances should iPads be left in unsupervised areas. Unsupervised areas include the outdoor school areas, the lunchroom, computer lab, library, unlocked classrooms, and hallways. Any iPad left in these areas is in danger of being stolen. If an iPad is found in an unsupervised area, it will be taken to the School Office. In the event that an iPad has been turned into the office due to not being supervised, the student will receive a consequence to be determined by administration.

69

8. IPAD INSURANCE 8.1 STM will provide AppleCare protection to cover accidental damage to the iPad. AppleCare does not cover operational failure or damage to the keyboard, charging cable, charging block, keyboard charger, or carrying case. Operational damage to items not covered by AppleCare will be handled by the school working with the manufacturer(s). Intentional damage to items not covered by AppleCare will be subject to the full replacement cost of the item. The protection covers operational or mechanical failure of the iPad caused by an accident from handling that is the result of an unexpected and unintentional external event (e.g. drops and damage caused by liquid contact other than as a result of defect in material and workmanship) that arises from your normal daily usage of the Covered Device as intended for such Covered Device. AppleCare does not cover the replacement cost if the iPad is lost or stolen. Students may use their parents’ personal insurance to protect the iPad in cases of theft, loss or accidental damage. AppleCare provides up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage during the life of the iPad. Each incident is subject to a $49 service fee plus applicable tax. Parents will be liable for the AppleCare service fee in the event of a claim and must sign the STM iPad Acceptable Use Parent/Guardian Policy before the student will be assigned an iPad. After 2 repair incidents, the student/parent/guardian is responsible for the full cost of repairs for the iPad. 8.2 Claims All insurance claims will be handled by the school working directly with Apple. 9. COST OF REPAIRS Students will be held responsible for ALL damage to their iPads including, but not limited to: broken screens, cracked plastic pieces, inoperability, etc. Should the cost to repair exceed the cost of purchasing a new device, the student will pay for full replacement value. 9.1 Damaged Items Students/Parents will pay the full replacement cost for any intentional damage to items provided with the IPad such as chargers, cables, keyboard cases, carrying cases. Replacement Cost of Items Item Replacement Cost Zagg Rugged Folio Keyboard Case $100.00 Logitech Rugged Combo Case $100.00

70

Apple Lightning to USB Cable $19.00 Apple 12W USB Power Adapter $19.00 Nylon Carrying Case $13.50 10. FEES 10.1 Technology Fee There will be a $175 per year technology fee that must be paid before a student receives his/her iPad. The technology fee will be used to offset expenditures toward the purchase of the iPad and other costs associated with the use of the school issued iPad. 10.2 Lost Items Students/Parents will pay the full replacement cost for any lost items provided with the IPad such as chargers, cables, keyboard cases, carrying cases. St. Thomas More Catholic School iPad Acceptable Use Policy Parent/Guardian Policy I hereby release STM School and its personnel from any and all claims and damages of any nature arising from my child’s use of, or inability to use the school technology, including but not limited to claims that may arise from the unauthorized use of the iPad to purchase product or services. I understand that it is impossible for STM School to restrict access to all controversial materials, and I will not hold the school responsible for materials accessed on the network. I also agree to report any inappropriate iPad use to the school administration. I accept full responsibility if and when my child’s use of technology is not in the school setting and understand that my child is subject to the same rules and agreements while not in school. I accept that I am responsible to pay the AppleCare service fee if I must make a claim on the STM provided insurance. I have read and understand the information contained in this document and agree to abide by the rules set forth in this document.

Student Recognition

HONOR ROLL: The purpose of the Honor Roll is to award outstanding scholastic achievement. We honor those students in grades 6 through 8 who are self-‐motivated to achieve high academic standards and who demonstrate Christian values. Students qualify for the Honor Roll based on overall points earned in academic

71

subjects that all students are required to take. Grades are not rounded up. Requirements are listed below:

Principal’s List 96 to 100 | First Honors 93 to 95 | Second Honors 90 to 92 The following Conduct Comments, as noted in any core or encore class on the report card, will result in an N or a U in conduct and will keep a student OFF of the Honor Roll. Additionally, if a student is on the National Junior Honor Society, he/she will be placed on probation for the next quarter.

• Lacks appropriate self control • Lacks respect for students • Lacks respect for authority • Is rude or disruptive • Does not obey school rules

These areas of Respect are a great concern. Students honored at St. Thomas More Catholic School must be truly representative of our Christian values.

National Junior Honor Society

Requirements Students who meet these requirements are eligible for membership in the National Junior Honor Society at the end of their 7th grade year. Requirements are based on the criteria established by the National Junior Honor Society organization. The selection process for membership on NJHS includes the following:

• A student must have attended Saint Thomas More Catholic for the entire sixth grade and first three quarters of seventh grade (four academic quarters)

• Be a 7th grade student in good standing • Maintained a 96% grade point average in the four quarters for 6th grade

and the first three quarters of 7th grade. The Grade Point Average (weighted 50% for grammar and 50% for literature for the language arts grade and 5% for basic concepts and 95% for math concepts for the math grade) in core classes (including religion) in 6th and 7th grades. The grades for each quarter are taken from the final 6th grade report card and the 7th grade third quarter report card. Grades are not rounded up.

Students that have received only one detention as a middle school student may apply to the National Junior Honor Society, but they will be asked to complete the detention reflection form found in the application packet.

Application Process

The National Junior Honor Society Academic Requirement forms will be available in the front office and on the school website. Check the school website for specific date. There will be an announcement at middle school lunch, in the More News, and on the STM website explaining the NJHS application time table, where to get the NJHS

72

Academic Requirement forms and the NJHS activity information form, and the due dates for both.

Students will request in writing using the Academic Requirement Form to have their grade point average reviewed by the advisor. Upon completion of the review the advisor will notify the student and parents the exact grade point average. Applicants will be given the Student Activity Information Form detailing extracurricular activities which exemplify leadership, service, and citizenship will be completed by the student and returned to the school office no later than 3:00pm on due date as stated by the advisor. National Junior Honor Society advisor will distribute the teacher recommendations to all their present and former middle school teachers to complete.

Teacher recommendations will be distributed by the advisor for students that have been determined eligible by the above process to have a 96% grade point average and been approved by the NJHS advisor in writing:

Within one week of the due date the National Junior Honor Society Faculty Council will meet to begin reviewing the activity information forms. Students will be inducted into the NJHS, based on their:

• Scholarship –as stated above • Leadership-‐Teacher recommendations, report card comments • Service-‐ Activity application-‐ All service must be signed by the person

directing the activity, parent signatures are not acceptable • Citizenship-‐ Teacher recommendations and report card comments • Character-‐Teacher recommendations and report card comments

Decisions for admittance to the National Junior Honor Society made by the Faculty Committee are final and will not be discussed or changed for any reason. The induction ceremony will take place during the fourth quarter. All members of the National Junior Honor Society, to remain in the society, are required to submit a quarterly form to the religion teacher, detailing their continued service to the community as required for volunteer hours for religion. Probation Community Service: Any member failing to complete and submit the community service form will be put on probation if the hours are not made up by the end of the next quarter.

Academic Requirement Any member whose grade point average drops below 96% will be put on probation and given one quarter to raise his/her grade point average to be in good standing with the NJHS. National Junior Honor Society Members who fall below the standards that were the basis for their selection shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter adviser and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or the law, a member does not have to be warned. In all cases of pending dismissal, a member shall have a right to a hearing before the Faculty Council. (Note: This hearing is required and is

73

considered "due process" for all members.) Conduct National Junior Honor Society Members who fall below the standards that were the basis for their selection shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter adviser and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or the law. Cheating 1st offense-‐ the student will be put on probation for 1 quarter. The student will meet with the teacher and the National Junior Honor Society advisor to present a written and oral apology and a plan of action to ensure that it will not occur again. Negative report card comment or N or U for conduct, the student will be put on probation for 1 quarter. The student will meet with the teacher and the National Junior Honor Society advisor to present a written and oral apology and a plan of action to ensure that it will not occur again. HONORS PROGRAMS: During Catholic Schools’ Week and at the end of the school year, students are recognized at an Honors Program. Awards are given for a variety of academic and behavioral accomplishments. Contest winners are also recognized at that time.

Informally, our mascot, Stripes, may visit the classrooms to honor students also. Stripes gives hugs, handshakes, love and encouragement for a job well done.

Student Leadership

SAFETY PATROL: The Saint Thomas More Catholic School Safety Patrol helps to maintain order on and near the school grounds. Safety patrol members are to be obeyed by all students, all parents, drivers and pedestrians while on or adjacent to the school grounds. If questions arise regarding directions given by a Safety Patrol member, please contact the supervising teachers or the school principal about the situation. STUDENT COUNCIL: The purpose of our Student Council is to provide opportunities for leadership; representatives of the student body who will communicate concerns and suggestions for the improvement of our school; to support and encourage ways to promote school spirit; and to participate in service projects and activities to benefit the community. Students and/or administration will elect council members. Requirements for Eligibility for Student Council 1. Scholastic average of 2.5 based on cumulative grades from the previous school year. 2. Satisfactory conduct as demonstrated in the previous school year. 3. Application form completed with required signatures and submitted by the deadline. 4. Election speech to be given at a school assembly prior to the elections if running for office.

74

Mentoring activities to foster leadership take additional forms at STM. The eighth graders buddy with the kindergarten students to help ease transition into school life. Additional activities that foster leadership take additional forms at STM. The eighth graders ‘buddy’ with the kindergarten students to help ease their transition into school life. Student who are new to STM are assigned a buddy that will contact them and serve as a good will ambassador to help them feel comfortable in their new school setting.

Lost & Found

Please check the lost and found for missing items. Label all belongings. Before each major school break, (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter and Spring Break), the lost and found will be cleaned out and donations will be made to The St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Traffic Plan for Arrival and Dismissal

If checking out early, parents are not to call and request that their children be waiting in the office for them. It can be a safety concern if the office staff gets called out of the office and the students are sitting in the office lobby. The office is closed from 2:50-‐3:15 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 2:00-‐2:30 on Wednesday just prior to dismissal. No check outs will be allowed at this time unless there are extenuating circumstances. Bikes are to be parked in the rack behind the lunchroom. After signing out, bike riders and walkers proceed up Trinity Street to the corner with the crossing guard. NO USE OF CELL PHONES DURING MORNING AND AFTERNOON CARPOOL! PLEASE DO NOT LET YOUR CARS IDLE WHILE YOU ARE WAITING FOR STUDENTS AT DISMISSAL. TURN OFF YOUR ENGINE. ARRIVAL POLICY – MORNING CARPOOL Our goal is for carpool to run smoothly, efficiently, but most of all safely for all our students and parents. We require all families to follow these carpool rules. These rules minimize back up traffic on Trinity as a courtesy to our neighbors and also per an agreement with the City of Decatur. Entering/Exiting Parking Lot 1. Turning left into or out of the school parking lot is prohibited. All cars must enter queue from Trinity.

75

2. DO NOT cut into the carpool line on Trinity. 3. Enter the parking lot via the driveway from Trinity Street from the right. Please stop at the Carpool Staging sign/line on Trinity when the queue flows out of the lot. This clears the view for drivers exiting onto Trinity. 4. Exit the parking lot to the right via the driveway on Trinity Street. **THERE ARE NO LEFT TURNS PERMITTED ONTO TRINITY STREET** AFTERNOON DISMISSAL AND SCHOOL DISMISSAL MANAGER Prior to the first day of school, you should set up your child/ren's dismissal profile using the School Dismissal Manager program. Indicate for each day the following:

• The default (most often routine home-‐-‐carpool/walker/aftercare) • Carpooling with other families: you will have to assign other drivers to

your child's dismissal plan Each afternoon, the school receives a report indicating how your child will go home. In the case of a change, you will have to "make an exception" using the School Dismissal Manager program at least 30 minutes prior to dismissal that day. Your child's teacher will receive a report indicating the change. Afternoon dismissal is at 3:15pm, except for Wednesday when students are dismissed at 2:30pm. 1. FIRST CALL CARPOOL: As you enter the parking lot, you will "Check In" using the School Dismissal Manager application. Two parent volunteers will be there with an IPad to assist you if needed. Advise your children to watch the screen for their names to be posted showing that you are in the parking lot for first call. They should come out quickly when first call is announced. 2. Cars fill the grid-‐rows and perimeter of the lot lined up in the same outbound direction for continuous exit. A carpool volunteer stationed in the parking lot directs you to park in the grid-‐rows until they are full. 3. The First Call set of cars is dismissed at 3:20 p.m. At this time, the second set of cars files into the parking lot. If your child fails to come out during the First Call, we ask you to exit and get back in line. 4. The second set of cars is dismissed at approximately 3:30. This is an All Call, meaning all students come out looking for their rides. Parents are encouraged to stand in the parking lot near the crosswalk to greet their children so they do not have to search for you.

76

5. At 3:35 p.m. the children who have not been picked up are asked to go to Aftercare if they are registered, or they go to the office to call you. If they cannot contact you, they are sent to Aftercare where they are registered as required by the state and you are assessed the daily fee. 6. No parking is allowed in front of the crosswalk in front of the entrance to the school. This area is only used for emergencies. 7. If your child has an appointment that requires you to leave prior to 3:10, please plan to come into the office and check out your child before 2:50pm. 8. If you have an afternoon conference (other than during normally scheduled conference days), park in front of the church so that your vehicle is not a hindrance to dismissal procedure. 9. Parking in the lot is allowed in the morning. If you are going to be here for the entire day, please park as if you will be in the First Call of the dismissal procedures. DISMISSAL: If your child normally carpools or goes to Aftercare and is going to walk home with a friend or go home with a friend, please indicate this on School Dismissal Manager and send a note or e-‐mail the homeroom teacher & front office to make him/her aware of the arrangement by 8:15am on the day of the change. If you are going to be away and have made other arrangements for your child to be picked up, please indicate this on School Dismissal Manager and e-‐mail or send a note for the homeroom teacher, including any phone numbers that might not be on the health card, just in case there is any confusion during dismissal time. It would be a huge help to us. WALKERS: Walkers should sign out when they leave school each day. The sign-‐out sheet is located next to the exit near the principal’s office. Students should indicate where they are going (i.e. home, library, etc.). They will exit the school property through the side gate to West Trinity Avenue. After school activities still require walkers to sign out appropriately. Students may not reenter campus after signing out without his/her guardian. YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY IS OUR PRIMARY CONCERN! Students, parents, and siblings are not allowed to play on the playground during dismissal or during aftercare hours. During out-‐of-‐school hours, students may play on the playground if accompanied by the parent and directly supervised by the parent. Please do not drop your child off to play on the playground, unattended by an adult. During school functions, children may not play on the playground or in the gym or anywhere on the school property without the constant supervision of an adult. Students may not reenter school property once they leave (walkers, car riders, etc.) without adult supervision.

77

If you walk to school to drop off or meet your child at dismissal, please do not bring your family pet on school campus. Pets are only allowed on campus on a leash/in a kennel, supervised by an adult during Pet Blessing Mass. CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILURE TO PICK UP YOUR CHILD ON TIME:

1. All remaining students are sent to the School Office where they may study until your arrival.

2. If you are more than 30 minutes late picking up from carpool (after 3:45pm on Mon., Tues, Thurs, & Friday and 3pm on Wednesdays), your child will be sent to the Extended Care program at your expense, unless there are extenuating circumstances. Late pick up will result in a fine that will be billed by the Extended Care Department. These fines are expected to be paid at the time invoiced. Failure to pay these fines will result in consequences, such as report cards being held or re-‐registration being denied.

FINES ARE AS FOLLOWS: $10.00/child until 4:00 p.m. | $15.00/child after 4:00 p.m.

78

COPIES OF ADDITIONAL FORMS: SAINT THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Student Handbook 2017-‐2018

• I/We have been issued a copy of the Saint Thomas More Catholic School Student Handbook.

• I/We understand that I/we are responsible for the information presented in this handbook.

• I/We understand that the continued enrollment of the student is subject to the student observing all school rules as set out in the school handbook including but not limited to general behavior, academic performance and attendance.

• I/We acknowledge that the school governs the conduct of the student when on the school property, during the aftercare program, participating in school activities off of the school property or any school event.

• Continued enrollment, in any given school year and re-‐enrollment in any subsequent school year, is subject to the parents’/guardians’ continued support of the mission of the school as documented in the school handbook and the maintenance of a demonstrably effective and supportive relationship between the school and the parents/guardians. Re-‐enrollment in any subsequent year is subject to mutual agreement. The student, the parents, or the school administration, either with or without cause, may withhold that agreement.

• I/We understand that students may appear in photographs, publications, films,

interviews, web page, or videotapes made in conjunction with these and other school-‐sponsored activities. These photographs or interviews may appear in school, area or national media. I give my consent for my child(ren) to appear in any publication, film, interview, web page, or videotape for St. Thomas More School.

• I hereby waive and release any claim against St. Thomas More School and the Archdiocese of Atlanta from any responsibility or liability for any claims arising from the publication or reproduction of any photographs, films, interviews, web page or videotapes.

Please complete & sign this form for each child attending STM.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– Parent/Guardian Signature Date ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-‐-‐––––––––––––––––––––– Student’s Name ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-‐-‐––––––––––––––––––––– Student’s Signature

This handbook may be amended by the school administration at any time during the year through the vehicle of two announcements in

the More News. PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE

Date post:	13-Aug-2020
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	1 times
Download:	0 times

SAINT THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL€¦ · copy of the Saint Thomas More Catholic School Student...

Documents