1.      trips, etc.).  The school reserves the right to determine, at its discretion, which actions fall short of meeting the Christian principles of the school.  Failure to follow these principles will normally result in verbal or written warning to the student(s) and or parent/guardian and normally will first result in disciplinary action short of a requirement to withdraw form the school (e.g., suspension of student or suspension of parent/guardian’s privilege to come on the campus grounds and/or to participate in parish/school activities, volunteer work, etc.).

The school reserves the right to determine, at its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as to warrant immediate action without a warning and/or without an intermediate step short of a withdrawal.

COMMUNICATIONS

       A.    Family Envelope / Weekly Classroom Folder:

The family envelope is an effective means of maintaining communication between home and school.  Please read each enclosure carefully and return the envelope to school on the day after you receive it.  By returning the envelope, we will know that you have received the communication from school.  Individual teachers may use weekly classroom folders.  Please follow the teachers’ directions for their use.

       B.    Newsletter and Calendar:

Each month a newsletter and calendar are emailed.  Hard copies are available in the office on request for those families without internet access.  These are important communiqués from the school.  Please post the monthly calendar for a quick reference of the school’s important events. 

From time to time flyers and information about community activities are sent home to St. Joseph School families.  Please note, these activities are not sponsored by the school and St. Joseph School assumes no responsibility for them.

C.   Parent-Teacher Conferences:

Conferences are formally scheduled in the fall at the end of the first trimester.  These conferences are teacher-led.  It is also recommended that parents plan to meet informally with the teachers throughout the year.  This will afford an opportunity for the parent to confer with the classroom teacher on matters pertaining to the growth and development of the student, and to receive an evaluation of his/her accomplishments.  Optional year end conferences are available upon parent request.

Parents are encouraged to maintain an ongoing communication with the child’s teacher; arrangements can be made for conferences with teachers before and after school.  Teachers will not be called out of classrooms except in case of emergency.  Hurried, unplanned conferences are discouraged.  There is no time during the school day for a satisfactory conference.  If you will call the school office or contact the teacher, she/he will arrange a satisfactory time.

Parents are not permitted in the classroom areas between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., unless they are working on campus or have checked in at the office.  Messages or forgotten items are to be left in the office (e.g., lunches, clothes, homework).

D.   Back to School Night:

This evening provides an opportunity to begin the year with an understanding of the teachers’ goals and the means by which these are to be achieved.  It is a way to know what is expected of your child/children and will enable you to assist them during the year.  It is not a time for individual conferences.

Back to School Night is held in September. Refer to September’s calendar and newsletter for the date and time.

E.    Family Information:

To maintain effective records and files, the school office is to be notified of any change of address or phone number (business or home) as soon as possible.

Parents going out of town for several days are to inform the office of the name of the person responsible for the student’s care in their absence.

When a change occurs in the family during the year because of a separation or divorce, we are better able to respond to the needs of the child(ren) when we are informed of the custodial status of parents.  When parents have double custody, separate Emergency Cards are required for each parent.

F.    Parent / Guardian Resolution of Conflict:

There are times when misunderstandings occur between parents and school personnel, or times when a procedure or policy needs clarification.  The following is the procedure for addressing concerns as recommended by the Diocesan School Office:

1.      If the concern involves any school personnel (teachers, etc.), the parents are to call the individual involved and arrange for a meeting.  The results of that meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing.  If a telephone conversation is held instead, the school personnel are to write down the results of that conversation and send a copy to the parents.  Include the date and time of the call.

2.      If there is no resolution in step one, the parents are to call the Principal and arrange for a meeting opportunity with the teacher, etc., present for that meeting.  The parents should bring a copy of the results of the first meeting.  The express purpose of this meeting is to bring about a solution.  The results of this meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing and copies distributed.

3.      If no solution is reached, the parents are to call the Pastor and arrange for a meeting with all parties present.  Again, the express purpose of the meeting is to bring about a solution.  The results of the meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing and copies distributed.

4.      If no solution can be reached, the parents are to write a letter to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, briefly stating the problem and including all written documents from all meetings held.  The Superintendent will review all documentation and decide on a course of action after consultation with the Pastor and Principal.

The aim of this process is to support good communication between parents and school personnel.

CURRICULUM

Educators have made great strides in developing creative programs which lead students to discover basic concepts through exploration and experimentation under the direction and encouragement of their teachers.  Cognizant of such programs, we endeavor to make our educational program more personal and relevant to each student through modification of the classroom, as required.  The students are challenged with high academic standards, a well-balanced curriculum and enrichment opportunities.

A.    General Programs:

All of our programs are planned according to the directives of the proper educational authorities: the Church, the State and Diocesan School Offices.  The curriculum for each grade includes the following subject areas: Religion, Language Arts (English, Reading, Literature, Spelling/Vocabulary, and Handwriting), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Computer, Physical Education, Art, and Music.  Students in Grade 5 participate in WES Environmental Camp.

B.    Religious Education:

The academic, physical, social, and spiritual development of the child is rooted in his/her religious formation.  This begins early in the child’s life under the supervision of parents, and is nurtured by the school.  To foster this growth, St. Joseph School offers a planned religious education program and participation in liturgical and para-liturgical celebrations at all grade levels.  The Diocesan content standards are followed for religious instruction.

Preparation for the sacraments assists both the parent and child to develop a deeper love and understanding of the sacraments.    Students who have demonstrated  readiness will receive First Reconciliation and Eucharist in Grade 2.  We stress the importance of parent involvement in the sacramental preparation and strongly encourage attendance at the parent meetings scheduled well in advance of the reception of the sacraments.  After the receiving of a sacrament, the continued participation in the sacrament is the responsibility of the parent.

Any student not in Grade 2 in need of sacramental preparation must contact the Parish Director of Religious Education for instruction classes.  Specific catechetical instruction for sacramental preparation is not present in the religious curriculum for other grades.

All students shall participate in the total instructional program of the school including religion classes.  The school shall respect the beliefs of children of other faiths that may be enrolled.  However, the content of the religious instructional program shall be that of the Catholic Church.

C.   Physical Education:

Formal physical education classes are conducted for all students.  If a student is unable to participate in these classes for a reason of health, he/she must bring a note from a parent and/or physician stating the reason and duration.

All activities are designed to promote physical fitness and all students are required to participate to the best of their ability.

D.   Homework:

        St. Joseph School believes in the value of homework, which serves to enrich and      reinforce student learning in the classroom. Besides helping students to develop independent work habits and a sense of responsibility, it can provide opportunities for research and creative thinking. The following suggestions are offered to parents to help their child with this responsibility:

1.  Model a positive attitude about homework. Give homework high priority by discouraging and/or rescheduling activities on weeknights, which interfere with school homework.

2.              Arrange for a quiet, comfortable place for your child to work that is free of distraction.

3.              Help your child organize the use of time by setting a definite time for homework
and keeping to it every night.

4.              Help your child understand that homework is one of the responsibilities of being a
student.

5.              Insist that your child write down his/her assignments daily in a student assignment notebook. Help the child to learn responsibility by refusing to allow him/her to consistently depend on phone calls to other students.

6.              Show interest in your child's work by taking the time to look over the completed
assignment. Insist on neatness and best effort.

7.              Listen to your child's efforts in reading, spelling, number facts, religion prayers,

      etc.                 

8.              Give help to your child but don't do the work for him/her.

The school also believes in the value of helping its families enjoy the weekends and holidays free of their children's academic responsibilities. Therefore, teachers assign homework on Monday through Thursday, but generally not on Friday or on days before dismissal for holidays.

The following table lists the estimated daily amounts of time a student should spend in completing assigned homework and/or unfinished class work:

•         Primary (K-2)                           20-30 minutes

•         Intermediate (3-5)                     30-60 minutes

•         Middle School (6-8)                  60-90 minutes

HOMEWORK AND CLASSWORK EXPECTATIONS

The majority of work assigned by teacher is to be done by the student individually, on his/her own. Occasionally, teachers may assign work to be done cooperatively by students. Unless the teachers clearly states that the work is to be done by a group of students and/or that students may help each other, it is expected that each student will do his/her own work.

Students need to understand that doing one's own work is a matter of justice. Presenting another student's work as one's own is morally and ethically incorrect and is considered cheating.

E.    Testing:

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is the adopted testing program for the schools in the Sacramento Diocese.  Students in Grades 2 through 8 are tested in the fall of the school year. Results of the ITBS test are shared with the parent when they have been finalized.  Students in Grade 3, 5, and 7 take the ITBS cognitive ability assessment.

All grades are assessed in their knowledge of the Catholic religion in the fall and spring  of each year.

SAFETY

A.    Disaster Emergency:

Fire and earthquake drills are conducted regularly.  In case of an actual emergency the procedure in the School Disaster Plan will be followed.  The plan can be reviewed in the school office.

B.    Traffic and Parking Regulations:

The safety of our children is everyone’s concern.  We need to be cautious at all times.  The following are our traffic and parking rules:

1.      No parking in the RED ZONES at any time.  There are two red zone areas: one in front of the school and one in front of the church.  The following areas are available for parking:

a.      Church parking lot

b.      Gold Street

c.      Walnut Avenue

d.      Benton Airpark Drive

2.      In the morning when entering the driveway, THERE IS TO BE ONE LINE OF TRAFFIC ONLY.  If you are the first car, please drive all the way to the west side of the cafeteria.  The greeters will then help the children unload.

3.      Children should unload on the curbside only.

4.      There is no parking allowed in the driveway.  Use the parking spaces on the street if you need to leave your car.

5.      No drive-through traffic is allowed for afternoon pick-up.

6.      Students must remain inside the gymnasium after school until their ride arrives.  It is definitely in defiance of school policy for students to wait at the church, airport, or other areas not approved by the school.

7.      At NO time should there be double-parking even if it is just to drop off or pick up students.

8.      School parents must not use the pre-school parking for any reason.

9.      Anyone parking on city streets must obey civil parking laws (i.e., hydrants, crosswalks, etc.)

C.   Dismissal:

Children will only be released into the care of persons authorized by the parent/guardian, in writing.  Forms for this purpose are in the office.  No student is permitted to leave the building without the parent or an authorized adult.  In the latter case, please call the school office to inform us who will be calling for the student.  Carpool riders are required to provide written permission from their parents to leave campus.  No student is permitted off campus to get lunch or to be picked up at another location unless the school has explicit written permission from the parent/authorized adult of that child.

D.   Child Abuse Reporting Obligations:

In accord with Diocesan policy and California law, school staff are obligated under penalty of fine and jail term, to report the reasonable suspicion of physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate supervision, or sexual abuse and exploitation.  In this very serious and legally narrow area, the school will not contact parents in advance of making a report to legal authorities, which would be the procedure followed in most other legal matters.  The clear intent of the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above, is to mandate that a report of reasonable suspicion of abuse be made.  School staff will make such reports in the best interests of the affected child and do not, once reasonable suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the proper authorities for their investigation and review.

E.    Federal Asbestos Management Compliance:

Asbestos regulations for school, as found in the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act and as promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency, are followed at St. Joseph School and monitored by the Diocese of Sacramento.  Following an initial inspection, non-friable asbestos is assumed to be present in certain portions of the School plant.  An in-place management program approved by the Diocese has been followed since the Diocesan inspection occurred.  The management program will control fiber releases to ensure that the day-to-day management of the buildings is carried out in such a fashion as to prevent injury to students, staff, and others.  Parents interested in obtaining more information are encouraged to contact the Principal.

                                                        SCHOOL POLICIES

A.    School Hours:

School hours are from 8:15 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  Students in all Grades, K-8 are dismissed at 3 p.m. For the safety of the children, they may not be on the school grounds before 8:00 a.m.  Students on campus before 8:00 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m. will be required to report to the Extended Day Care Program.  Parents/Guardians will be responsible to pay the required fee.  Teachers will escort students remaining in gymnasium to Extended Day Care when the 3:30 p.m. bell rings.

B.    Attendance:

School success begins with regular, punctual attendance. Students must attend school regularly with as few absences as possible to benefit fully from his/her education. Therefore, parents are asked to:

·        Make all medical and dental appointments outside of the school day whenever
possible.

·        Guard academic time by avoiding disruption of the daily schedule with early pick­
ups or late arrivals. * Please note: Students will not be called from class for
appointments, etc. until the parent has arrived in the office for pick-up.

·        Schedule family vacation time to coincide with school breaks or outside the
school calendar.

·        The school is obliged to keep an accurate record of daily attendance.  For your child’s protection, when he/she is absent, the parent is to phone the school office before 9:00 a.m. each day the child is out.

·        If a child is sent home ill before morning recess, it is considered a full day absence.  Children coming to school after recess will be counted a ½ day absent.

C.   Valid Excuses for Absence

Students may be absent from school for a valid excuse. At St. Joseph School the following constitutes a valid excuse:

         Medical Appointments (which cannot be scheduled outside the school day)

• Student should return with a note from the doctor's office verifying the appointment and check into the school office for an admit slip.
• Students who need to be excused during the day for dental or medical appointments are to bring a note that morning to the school office.  The student will be sent to the office to meet his/her parent(s). AT NO TIME is a parent allowed to take a child from the classroom or playground.

• Student shall be permitted to make-up missed school assignments. The student is responsible for requesting missed work from the teacher(s).

• Illness (student is physically unable to meet the demands of the academic day)
• Upon return the student should bring a signed note from his/her parent(s) stating the nature of the illness, etc.
• If the illness causes an absence of more than three consecutive days, the student must return with a doctor's release before being readmitted to class.

D.         Tardies

           The student must maintain regular attendance and avoid tardiness.  A student is tardy if he/she arrives after the bell has rung in the morning, after lunch, or between classes.  TARDY STUDENTS must report to the school office for an Admittance Slip BEFORE proceeding to class.  Habitual tardiness is most disruptive to students and teachers already in class and deprives the tardy student of the instruction in process.         

            Consequences for tardies are as follows:

·        The accumulation of 5 tardies in a trimester will require that the parent and the student met with the teacher and create a written plan for arriving to school on time.

·        Tardies in excess of 10 per trimester will require a conference with the principal.

E.    Excessive Absences

            Excessive absences may cause a negative impact on the student’s learning and grades for the trimester.  Under ordinary circumstances, more than ten (10) days of absence in a trimester is considered excessive.

            Thirty (30) or more days of absence in a given school year may result in retention for the following school year.

F.    Family Vacations during School

Parents are strongly encouraged to have their children attend school regularly and to avoid vacations during school time.  If occasion should arise which requires a student’s non-illness absence from school, the parent will need to conference with the principal well in advance (at least two weeks prior) of the anticipated trip.

If a non-illness absence (e.g. death in the family, serious illness of relatives, family catastrophe) is agreed to by the principal, the parent will be advised to conference with the necessary teacher(s) of their child(ren) to arrange for appropriate assignments to be done by the student during or after the absence.

The school MAY NOT recommend in favor of the absence if it is felt that the absence will affect the student’s academic progress in a negative manner.  If the parents decide to absent their child(ren) anyway, make-up work will still be allowed, but the school assumes no responsibility for the learning time lost to the student or tests that might be missed during the absence.  The absence may also have an adverse effect on the student’s grades for the trimester.

    .

G.     School Health Program

The school provides screening each year for vision and hearing. If a child exhibits difficulty in these areas, the parent of the child will be referred to the local health agencies or to the proper specialist for follow-up.

Health and Emergency Forms

Parents are required to provide the school with all necessary health information and immunization records. St. Joseph School complies with all local and state requirements for immunization and health assessment.  Students will not be allowed to attend school until immunization compliance is met.

Parents enrolling a child in the First Grade MUST provide evidence that the child has received the health screening and examination required by law or must bring a signed waiver stating that they do not want health screening for their child. The screening and examination may be conducted 18 months prior to registration/ enrollment in First Grade but no later than 90 days after enrollment. Mumps and rubella immunization are required for children entering Kindergarten in the fall.

An emergency form for each family is kept on file in the office. The form lists addresses, phone numbers, doctor's names, and neighbors' names. It is essential that the card be kept current and that it be signed to allow the school to initiate emergency medical services for a student as needed. A completed emergency form IS REQUIRED to be on file in the school office for a student's continued attendance.

H.      Medications

For the safety of all students, students may not carry any medications, e.g. in pockets,

in backpacks, in desks, etc. while on campus. All medication must be checked with the

school secretary and stored in the school office. Students who ignore compliance risk

disciplinary consequences.  Sharing medication with other students may be cause for

disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion. If a student must have medication

1.      trips, etc.).  The school reserves the right to determine, at its discretion, which actions fall short of meeting the Christian principles of the school.  Failure to follow these principles will normally result in verbal or written warning to the student(s) and or parent/guardian and normally will first result in disciplinary action short of a requirement to withdraw form the school (e.g., suspension of student or suspension of parent/guardian’s privilege to come on the campus grounds and/or to participate in parish/school activities, volunteer work, etc.).

The school reserves the right to determine, at its discretion, when conduct is of such a severe nature as to warrant immediate action without a warning and/or without an intermediate step short of a withdrawal.

COMMUNICATIONS

       A.    Family Envelope / Weekly Classroom Folder:

The family envelope is an effective means of maintaining communication between home and school.  Please read each enclosure carefully and return the envelope to school on the day after you receive it.  By returning the envelope, we will know that you have received the communication from school.  Individual teachers may use weekly classroom folders.  Please follow the teachers’ directions for their use.

       B.    Newsletter and Calendar:

Each month a newsletter and calendar are emailed.  Hard copies are available in the office on request for those families without internet access.  These are important communiqués from the school.  Please post the monthly calendar for a quick reference of the school’s important events. 

From time to time flyers and information about community activities are sent home to St. Joseph School families.  Please note, these activities are not sponsored by the school and St. Joseph School assumes no responsibility for them.

C.   Parent-Teacher Conferences:

Conferences are formally scheduled in the fall at the end of the first trimester.  These conferences are teacher-led.  It is also recommended that parents plan to meet informally with the teachers throughout the year.  This will afford an opportunity for the parent to confer with the classroom teacher on matters pertaining to the growth and development of the student, and to receive an evaluation of his/her accomplishments.  Optional year end conferences are available upon parent request.

Parents are encouraged to maintain an ongoing communication with the child’s teacher; arrangements can be made for conferences with teachers before and after school.  Teachers will not be called out of classrooms except in case of emergency.  Hurried, unplanned conferences are discouraged.  There is no time during the school day for a satisfactory conference.  If you will call the school office or contact the teacher, she/he will arrange a satisfactory time.

Parents are not permitted in the classroom areas between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., unless they are working on campus or have checked in at the office.  Messages or forgotten items are to be left in the office (e.g., lunches, clothes, homework).

D.   Back to School Night:

This evening provides an opportunity to begin the year with an understanding of the teachers’ goals and the means by which these are to be achieved.  It is a way to know what is expected of your child/children and will enable you to assist them during the year.  It is not a time for individual conferences.

Back to School Night is held in September. Refer to September’s calendar and newsletter for the date and time.

E.    Family Information:

To maintain effective records and files, the school office is to be notified of any change of address or phone number (business or home) as soon as possible.

Parents going out of town for several days are to inform the office of the name of the person responsible for the student’s care in their absence.

When a change occurs in the family during the year because of a separation or divorce, we are better able to respond to the needs of the child(ren) when we are informed of the custodial status of parents.  When parents have double custody, separate Emergency Cards are required for each parent.

F.    Parent / Guardian Resolution of Conflict:

There are times when misunderstandings occur between parents and school personnel, or times when a procedure or policy needs clarification.  The following is the procedure for addressing concerns as recommended by the Diocesan School Office:

1.      If the concern involves any school personnel (teachers, etc.), the parents are to call the individual involved and arrange for a meeting.  The results of that meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing.  If a telephone conversation is held instead, the school personnel are to write down the results of that conversation and send a copy to the parents.  Include the date and time of the call.

2.      If there is no resolution in step one, the parents are to call the Principal and arrange for a meeting opportunity with the teacher, etc., present for that meeting.  The parents should bring a copy of the results of the first meeting.  The express purpose of this meeting is to bring about a solution.  The results of this meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing and copies distributed.

3.      If no solution is reached, the parents are to call the Pastor and arrange for a meeting with all parties present.  Again, the express purpose of the meeting is to bring about a solution.  The results of the meeting are to be in writing with all parties signing and copies distributed.

4.      If no solution can be reached, the parents are to write a letter to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, briefly stating the problem and including all written documents from all meetings held.  The Superintendent will review all documentation and decide on a course of action after consultation with the Pastor and Principal.

The aim of this process is to support good communication between parents and school personnel.

CURRICULUM

Educators have made great strides in developing creative programs which lead students to discover basic concepts through exploration and experimentation under the direction and encouragement of their teachers.  Cognizant of such programs, we endeavor to make our educational program more personal and relevant to each student through modification of the classroom, as required.  The students are challenged with high academic standards, a well-balanced curriculum and enrichment opportunities.

A.    General Programs:

All of our programs are planned according to the directives of the proper educational authorities: the Church, the State and Diocesan School Offices.  The curriculum for each grade includes the following subject areas: Religion, Language Arts (English, Reading, Literature, Spelling/Vocabulary, and Handwriting), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Computer, Physical Education, Art, and Music.  Students in Grade 5 participate in WES Environmental Camp.

B.    Religious Education:

The academic, physical, social, and spiritual development of the child is rooted in his/her religious formation.  This begins early in the child’s life under the supervision of parents, and is nurtured by the school.  To foster this growth, St. Joseph School offers a planned religious education program and participation in liturgical and para-liturgical celebrations at all grade levels.  The Diocesan content standards are followed for religious instruction.

Preparation for the sacraments assists both the parent and child to develop a deeper love and understanding of the sacraments.    Students who have demonstrated  readiness will receive First Reconciliation and Eucharist in Grade 2.  We stress the importance of parent involvement in the sacramental preparation and strongly encourage attendance at the parent meetings scheduled well in advance of the reception of the sacraments.  After the receiving of a sacrament, the continued participation in the sacrament is the responsibility of the parent.

Any student not in Grade 2 in need of sacramental preparation must contact the Parish Director of Religious Education for instruction classes.  Specific catechetical instruction for sacramental preparation is not present in the religious curriculum for other grades.

All students shall participate in the total instructional program of the school including religion classes.  The school shall respect the beliefs of children of other faiths that may be enrolled.  However, the content of the religious instructional program shall be that of the Catholic Church.

C.   Physical Education:

Formal physical education classes are conducted for all students.  If a student is unable to participate in these classes for a reason of health, he/she must bring a note from a parent and/or physician stating the reason and duration.

All activities are designed to promote physical fitness and all students are required to participate to the best of their ability.

D.   Homework:

        St. Joseph School believes in the value of homework, which serves to enrich and      reinforce student learning in the classroom. Besides helping students to develop independent work habits and a sense of responsibility, it can provide opportunities for research and creative thinking. The following suggestions are offered to parents to help their child with this responsibility:

1.  Model a positive attitude about homework. Give homework high priority by discouraging and/or rescheduling activities on weeknights, which interfere with school homework.

2.              Arrange for a quiet, comfortable place for your child to work that is free of distraction.

3.              Help your child organize the use of time by setting a definite time for homework
and keeping to it every night.

4.              Help your child understand that homework is one of the responsibilities of being a
student.

5.              Insist that your child write down his/her assignments daily in a student assignment notebook. Help the child to learn responsibility by refusing to allow him/her to consistently depend on phone calls to other students.

6.              Show interest in your child's work by taking the time to look over the completed
assignment. Insist on neatness and best effort.

7.              Listen to your child's efforts in reading, spelling, number facts, religion prayers,

      etc.                 

8.              Give help to your child but don't do the work for him/her.

The school also believes in the value of helping its families enjoy the weekends and holidays free of their children's academic responsibilities. Therefore, teachers assign homework on Monday through Thursday, but generally not on Friday or on days before dismissal for holidays.

The following table lists the estimated daily amounts of time a student should spend in completing assigned homework and/or unfinished class work:

•         Primary (K-2)                           20-30 minutes

•         Intermediate (3-5)                     30-60 minutes

•         Middle School (6-8)                  60-90 minutes

HOMEWORK AND CLASSWORK EXPECTATIONS

The majority of work assigned by teacher is to be done by the student individually, on his/her own. Occasionally, teachers may assign work to be done cooperatively by students. Unless the teachers clearly states that the work is to be done by a group of students and/or that students may help each other, it is expected that each student will do his/her own work.

Students need to understand that doing one's own work is a matter of justice. Presenting another student's work as one's own is morally and ethically incorrect and is considered cheating.

E.    Testing:

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) is the adopted testing program for the schools in the Sacramento Diocese.  Students in Grades 2 through 8 are tested in the fall of the school year. Results of the ITBS test are shared with the parent when they have been finalized.  Students in Grade 3, 5, and 7 take the ITBS cognitive ability assessment.

All grades are assessed in their knowledge of the Catholic religion in the fall and spring  of each year.

SAFETY

A.    Disaster Emergency:

Fire and earthquake drills are conducted regularly.  In case of an actual emergency the procedure in the School Disaster Plan will be followed.  The plan can be reviewed in the school office.

B.    Traffic and Parking Regulations:

The safety of our children is everyone’s concern.  We need to be cautious at all times.  The following are our traffic and parking rules:

1.      No parking in the RED ZONES at any time.  There are two red zone areas: one in front of the school and one in front of the church.  The following areas are available for parking:

a.      Church parking lot

b.      Gold Street

c.      Walnut Avenue

d.      Benton Airpark Drive

2.      In the morning when entering the driveway, THERE IS TO BE ONE LINE OF TRAFFIC ONLY.  If you are the first car, please drive all the way to the west side of the cafeteria.  The greeters will then help the children unload.

3.      Children should unload on the curbside only.

4.      There is no parking allowed in the driveway.  Use the parking spaces on the street if you need to leave your car.

5.      No drive-through traffic is allowed for afternoon pick-up.

6.      Students must remain inside the gymnasium after school until their ride arrives.  It is definitely in defiance of school policy for students to wait at the church, airport, or other areas not approved by the school.

7.      At NO time should there be double-parking even if it is just to drop off or pick up students.

8.      School parents must not use the pre-school parking for any reason.

9.      Anyone parking on city streets must obey civil parking laws (i.e., hydrants, crosswalks, etc.)

C.   Dismissal:

Children will only be released into the care of persons authorized by the parent/guardian, in writing.  Forms for this purpose are in the office.  No student is permitted to leave the building without the parent or an authorized adult.  In the latter case, please call the school office to inform us who will be calling for the student.  Carpool riders are required to provide written permission from their parents to leave campus.  No student is permitted off campus to get lunch or to be picked up at another location unless the school has explicit written permission from the parent/authorized adult of that child.

D.   Child Abuse Reporting Obligations:

In accord with Diocesan policy and California law, school staff are obligated under penalty of fine and jail term, to report the reasonable suspicion of physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate supervision, or sexual abuse and exploitation.  In this very serious and legally narrow area, the school will not contact parents in advance of making a report to legal authorities, which would be the procedure followed in most other legal matters.  The clear intent of the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above, is to mandate that a report of reasonable suspicion of abuse be made.  School staff will make such reports in the best interests of the affected child and do not, once reasonable suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the proper authorities for their investigation and review.

E.    Federal Asbestos Management Compliance:

Asbestos regulations for school, as found in the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act and as promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency, are followed at St. Joseph School and monitored by the Diocese of Sacramento.  Following an initial inspection, non-friable asbestos is assumed to be present in certain portions of the School plant.  An in-place management program approved by the Diocese has been followed since the Diocesan inspection occurred.  The management program will control fiber releases to ensure that the day-to-day management of the buildings is carried out in such a fashion as to prevent injury to students, staff, and others.  Parents interested in obtaining more information are encouraged to contact the Principal.

SCHOOL POLICIES

A.    School Hours:

School hours are from 8:15 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  Students in all Grades, K-8 are dismissed at 3 p.m. For the safety of the children, they may not be on the school grounds before 8:00 a.m.  Students on campus before 8:00 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m. will be required to report to the Extended Day Care Program.  Parents/Guardians will be responsible to pay the required fee.  Teachers will escort students remaining in gymnasium to Extended Day Care when the 3:30 p.m. bell rings.

B.    Attendance:

School success begins with regular, punctual attendance. Students must attend school regularly with as few absences as possible to benefit fully from his/her education. Therefore, parents are asked to:

·        Make all medical and dental appointments outside of the school day whenever
possible.

·        Guard academic time by avoiding disruption of the daily schedule with early pick­
ups or late arrivals. * Please note: Students will not be called from class for
appointments, etc. until the parent has arrived in the office for pick-up.

·        Schedule family vacation time to coincide with school breaks or outside the
school calendar.

·        The school is obliged to keep an accurate record of daily attendance.  For your child’s protection, when he/she is absent, the parent is to phone the school office before 9:00 a.m. each day the child is out.

·        If a child is sent home ill before morning recess, it is considered a full day absence.  Children coming to school after recess will be counted a ½ day absent.

C.   Valid Excuses for Absence

Students may be absent from school for a valid excuse. At St. Joseph School the following constitutes a valid excuse:

         Medical Appointments (which cannot be scheduled outside the school day)

• Student should return with a note from the doctor's office verifying the appointment and check into the school office for an admit slip.
• Students who need to be excused during the day for dental or medical appointments are to bring a note that morning to the school office.  The student will be sent to the office to meet his/her parent(s). AT NO TIME is a parent allowed to take a child from the classroom or playground.

• Student shall be permitted to make-up missed school assignments. The student is responsible for requesting missed work from the teacher(s).

• Illness (student is physically unable to meet the demands of the academic day)
• Upon return the student should bring a signed note from his/her parent(s) stating the nature of the illness, etc.
• If the illness causes an absence of more than three consecutive days, the student must return with a doctor's release before being readmitted to class.

D.         Tardies

           The student must maintain regular attendance and avoid tardiness.  A student is tardy if he/she arrives after the bell has rung in the morning, after lunch, or between classes.  TARDY STUDENTS must report to the school office for an Admittance Slip BEFORE proceeding to class.  Habitual tardiness is most disruptive to students and teachers already in class and deprives the tardy student of the instruction in process.         

            Consequences for tardies are as follows:

·        The accumulation of 5 tardies in a trimester will require that the parent and the student met with the teacher and create a written plan for arriving to school on time.

·        Tardies in excess of 10 per trimester will require a conference with the principal.

E.    Excessive Absences

            Excessive absences may cause a negative impact on the student’s learning and grades for the trimester.  Under ordinary circumstances, more than ten (10) days of absence in a trimester is considered excessive.

            Thirty (30) or more days of absence in a given school year may result in retention for the following school year.

F.    Family Vacations during School

Parents are strongly encouraged to have their children attend school regularly and to avoid vacations during school time.  If occasion should arise which requires a student’s non-illness absence from school, the parent will need to conference with the principal well in advance (at least two weeks prior) of the anticipated trip.

If a non-illness absence (e.g. death in the family, serious illness of relatives, family catastrophe) is agreed to by the principal, the parent will be advised to conference with the necessary teacher(s) of their child(ren) to arrange for appropriate assignments to be done by the student during or after the absence.

The school MAY NOT recommend in favor of the absence if it is felt that the absence will affect the student’s academic progress in a negative manner.  If the parents decide to absent their child(ren) anyway, make-up work will still be allowed, but the school assumes no responsibility for the learning time lost to the student or tests that might be missed during the absence.  The absence may also have an adverse effect on the student’s grades for the trimester.

    .

G.     School Health Program

The school provides screening each year for vision and hearing. If a child exhibits difficulty in these areas, the parent of the child will be referred to the local health agencies or to the proper specialist for follow-up.

Health and Emergency Forms

Parents are required to provide the school with all necessary health information and immunization records. St. Joseph School complies with all local and state requirements for immunization and health assessment.  Students will not be allowed to attend school until immunization compliance is met.

Parents enrolling a child in the First Grade MUST provide evidence that the child has received the health screening and examination required by law or must bring a signed waiver stating that they do not want health screening for their child. The screening and examination may be conducted 18 months prior to registration/ enrollment in First Grade but no later than 90 days after enrollment. Mumps and rubella immunization are required for children entering Kindergarten in the fall.

An emergency form for each family is kept on file in the office. The form lists addresses, phone numbers, doctor's names, and neighbors' names. It is essential that the card be kept current and that it be signed to allow the school to initiate emergency medical services for a student as needed. A completed emergency form IS REQUIRED to be on file in the school office for a student's continued attendance.

H.      Medications

For the safety of all students, students may not carry any medications, e.g. in pockets,

in backpacks, in desks, etc. while on campus. All medication must be checked with the

school secretary and stored in the school office. Students who ignore compliance risk

disciplinary consequences.  Sharing medication with other students may be cause for

disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion. If a student must have medication

during the school day, the following procedures shall be followed: 

a.  Written permission signed by the parent/legal guardian, who assumes sole responsibility for supplying and delivering all medications to the school office.

b.  All medications must be brought to and administered through the school office.

c.  Where reasonable and feasible, the student’s medication should be self-administered.

d.  The medication must be in the original container with the original pharmaceutical label with the student’s name, the name of the medication, dosage schedule and instructions, the date of expiration, and the physician’s name and phone number.

e.  Parents must request special arrangements with the school administration to allow a student to carry emergency medication (e.g. Epi-Pens or inhalers), if the child is sufficiently capable, mature, and responsible.

I.   Accidents and Injury

All accidents that occur on school property or during school activities should be reported to the school office as soon as possible.  This will assist school personnel in preparing and providing student accident insurance forms.  As a part of the registration fee, students are extended insurance coverage through a Diocesan approved plan.  Copies may be requested through the school office.  It is the responsibility of the parent to request from the office an insurance claim accident form, and submit it to the appropriate claims office.  This is supplemental insurance and takes effect after the family’s own insurance has been used.

J.    Lost and Found:

Lost and found articles are located in the extended day room.  Please mark all lunch boxes, sweaters, sweatshirts, etc., with family name.  All unclaimed clothing is sent to the Uniform Exchange or the Second Time Around.

K.   Personal Property:

Large amounts of money or expensive articles should not be brought to school.  This includes I-pods, cell phones, laptops, radios, tape recorders, electronic games and toys.  If any damage or loss results from disregard of this regulation, the school assumes no responsibility.  See school rules.

L.    Directory Information:

In order to facilitate certain administrative requirements of the State and the Diocese, and to provide important information and communications, parents are requested to cooperate by providing certain statistics and by using certain forms.

At the beginning of each school year, directory information forms and emergency cards are sent home.  Your cooperation is asked in completing and returning these on the following day.  School record information must be kept current at all times.  If you later have any change in family name, address, phone, work information, etc., please notify the school office immediately.

Children are not to have access to directory information (phone numbers, addresses, etc.) which parents have available.  Lists may not be given to anyone without permission of the school.  Confidentiality of such information is most important.

M.   School Office Hours:

The School Secretary is available in the school office from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. daily, when school is in session.  7:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on minimum days.

N.   School Telephone:

The number for the school office is 243-2302.  The office telephone is a business phone and is to be used by the students only in emergency situations and with written permission from the teacher. 

O.   School Schedule:

School begins at 8:15 a.m.  Students should be on the school grounds by 8:10 a.m.  Students will be considered tardy after the second bell at 8:15 a.m.  School ends at 3:00 p.m.

Recess:       Grades K, 1, 2,                                       10:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.

Grades  3, 4, 5                                        10:20 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.

                  Grades 6, 7, 8                                           9:45 a.m. to  9:55 a.m.

Lunch:        Grades K,1,2,3                                       11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, 8                                 12:10 p.m. to 12:55 p.m.

i.     Minimum Day Schedule:

School begins at 8:15 a.m.

Recess:       Grades K, 1, 2                               10:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m.

Grades  3, 4, 5                               10:20 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.

Grades 6, 7. 8                                  9:45 a.m. to   9:55 a.m.       

Dismissal:   All Grades                                      12:30 p.m.

Supervision is provided:

8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on regular days

8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on minimum days

The Extended Day Program: is available

6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily

1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on minimum days

P.    Uniforms:

In order to foster a spirit of equality and neatness, all students wear uniforms.  Uniforms must be worn from the first day of school until the end of the school year, unless otherwise directed.  The discrection of the Principal is the deciding factor, at all times.

Each student has the obligation of wearing the prescribed school uniform.  If, due to an emergency, it is impossible for a student to be in full uniform, the student must bring a note from a parent as to the reason he/she is unable to wear the entire uniform for the day.  In the event that a note is not presented, the parent will be called to bring the appropriate attire to school.

In addition to the guidelines listed below, the following regulations apply to all students:

1.      Hair is to be kept in a neat and conventional style, (No long hair for boys will be allowed) combed back out of the face at all times. The Principal will determine the appropriateness of the haircut.

2.      All items of clothing worn to school must be marked with an indelible name tag.

3.      No make-up, nail polish, or excessive jewelry is allowed.

Principal and teachers exercise the right to make judgments concerning dress and appearance guidelines.

All St. Joseph School students wear uniforms according to these guidelines:

1.    Girls Grades K-5:

Dress:                  Plaid Jumper (a modest length) purchased from uniform supplier.  SHORTS MUST BE WORN UNDER JUMPERS.  Red or white PE shorts may be worn under jumpers and must NOT hang lower than the skirt.

                              Scout uniforms may be worn in place of uniforms on meeting dates only.

Skort:                  Navy twill.  (Modest length)

Shorts:                 Navy twill.  (Modest length)

Pants:                  Navy twill.  Must be worn to the ankle and over the socks.  No baggy or tight pants allowed.  No stretch pants, knits, or stir-ups.  No denim or jeans. 

Blouse/Shirt:        Must be white with round or pointed collar.  White or red collared polo shirts or turtlenecks with or without the school name are allowed.  No lace, ruffles, or trim are allowed.  Please have blouse, shirts, and turtlenecks tucked in.

                  Sweater:              ONLY navy or red waist-length (not oversized) cardigans, pullovers, or sweater vests are allowed.

         Sweatshirt:           Red St. Joseph Sweatshirt ONLY. NO OTHER SWEATSHIRT ALLOWED - even outdoors.  Must be fitted and not oversized or baggy.

         Jacket:                 Any jacket is allowed, but must be worn outdoors only.  All jackets must be removed in the classroom.

         Socks:                 Solid white, navy, or red above the shoe.  No ruffles, lace, or patterned socks are allowed.  Knee or crew socks OK.

         Tights:                 Must be solid white, red, or navy.  Must be full-footed.  No lace, leggings, or leg warmers allowed.  Can be worn with the jumper, skirt, or shorts.

         Shoes:                 Any closed toe shoes are allowed.  NO sandals at any time.  Only rubber soles are allowed in the gym.  No boots.

Make-up and Jewelry:

Watches, religious pendants, small stud earrings, and clear nail polish are allowed.  NO dangling earrings, hoops, make-up, or lipstick.  Hair ribbons, barrettes, and bows must coordinate with uniform.

 2.   Boys Grades K-5:

Pants:                  Navy twill.  Must be worn to the ankle and over the socks.  No baggy or tight pants allowed.  No denim or jeans. 

Shorts:                 Navy twill  (Modest length)

Shirt:                   Must be white or red collared polo shirts or turtlenecks, with or without the school name are allowed.  Please have shirts and turtlenecks tucked in.

Sweater:              ONLY navy or red waist-length (not oversized) cardigans, pullovers, or sweater vests are allowed.

Sweatshirt:           Red St. Joseph Sweatshirt ONLY.  This must be purchased from the Uniform Supplier. NO OTHER SWEATSHIRT ALLOWED - even outdoors.  Must be fitted, and not oversized or baggy.

         Hat:                     Only the school-sanctioned hat is allowed - outdoors only.

ST. JOSEPH MIDDLE SCHOOL DRESS CODE

Uniform

• Navy Blue or Khaki pants or walking shorts—Girls may wear blue or khaki capris, skorts or skirts. No cargo or carpenter pants or shorts are allowed. Shorts must be at least fingertip length.
• Green, white or maroon colored polo, oxford, or turtleneck shirt.

Footwear

• Tennis shoes are recommended on regular dress and free dress days and required on P.E. days.
• No open toed shoes, sandal, high heels.
• No boots of any kind.
• White socks must be worn at all times.

Hats/Accessories

• Young men may not wear earrings of any kind.
• Sunglasses may be worn outside the classroom only.
• A wristwatch may worn, but watches with audible alarms are not allowed.
• NO pagers, beepers, cellular phones, personal CD players or walkmans are allowed during instruction time.  These items are subject to teacher confiscation if displayed during the instructional day.  Parent will then be required to retrieve them at the office.
• Chain wallets and chain keys are not allowed.