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Holy Family School
Student Hand Book
INTRODUCTION
This handbook has been prepared for the families of our students. It is our hope that the information contained within will help all those who read it come to a better understanding of our school and its program.
Please keep this handbook for future reference and copies of forms.
Handbook revised - June 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Holy Family School was officially opened, on its present site, in 1927 to serve Catholic families living in the Camp Taylor community. By 1935 there were 213 children and a faculty of four Sisters of Charity. Through the years the Parish and the school continued to grow at a rapid pace.
In 1952, a new wing was completed just in time to accommodate a population of over 1,100 students. The Sisters of Charity continued to staff the school, but from the early 50's Catholic lay men and women began to serve alongside the Sisters.
In 1957, with the founding of Resurrection and Guardian Angels parishes, the school population dropped considerably. Through these years changing demographics brought about other decreases in enrollment. Since the late 1970's, however, the enrollment has stabilized at nearly 250 students.
Yet, with a smaller student population, Holy Family continued to expand its programs to meet the needs of its parishioners. In 1984 a kindergarten was established enrolling 23 students. To meet the needs of working families an after-school child care program was begun in 1985, and by 1990 child summer care services were added thus providing year round care. In 1994 the decision was made to begin a preschool plus childcare program for four-year-olds. After a successful year of operation the program has been expanded and now includes two and three-year-olds. All of our extended programs are thriving in this 21st century.
Today, as we look back through
the years, we are conscious that, though many changes have come our way,
the spirit, values, and beliefs which have been so much a part of our
community are as strong as ever. Holy Family School continues this
tradition.
PHILOSOPHY
Holy Family Catholic School is a Christian community established for the purpose of assisting parents in carrying out their desire to educate their children in a setting which emphasizes Christian principles of love and respect for God church, country and the world.
As an educational institution we recognize the dignity, worth and unique needs of all the pupils we serve regardless of race, creed, or color. Therefore, we seek to provide an environment that would aid in the development of the whole child intellectually, spiritually, socially and physically.
It is our general goal to educate the whole child to be a
self-motivated learner who will seek knowledge and insight all of
his/her life and value the importance of learning in our society.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of Holy Family School is to provide for the
spiritual, moral, and academic development of its students and enable
them to move with confidence into the world.
PREAMBLE
For over 75 years Holy Family School has served the parents of Holy
Family Parish and the Camp Taylor neighborhood. Its dedicated and
well-qualified faculty joins with the community and its children in the
ongoing process of celebrating its closeness, deepening its traditions,
and supporting its values of commitment, faith, and service.
VALUES
In pursuit of this mission we commit ourselves to supporting these values
Faith
Academic Excellence
Respect
Service
ADMISSIONS
Holy Family Parish conducts an elementary school program for grades K through eight. Children will be admitted to the school if the designated Parish authority judges the intent and motivation to be in accord with the purposes of Catholic education.
"The basic purpose of Catholic schools is to assure that Catholic truths and values are fully integrated with the student's life and academic program. Children should not apply unless they desire and intend to participate fully in the religious program of the school." (Guidelines for Admissions--Office of Catholic Schools)
Preference will be given to parishioners, then to Catholic families from other parishes, and finally to non-Catholic families.
Parishioners of Holy Family must register their Kindergartners by Feb. 10 of the year the child is to begin school. After Feb. 10, registration will be open to non-parishioners/non-Catholics on a first come, first served basis.
Before a new student is officially admitted to Holy Family School, the following steps are required:
- All new families are required to meet with the principal before registering with the school.
- Families are required to release to the school any and all information pertaining to assessments and evaluations concerning their child. Failure to do so may result in the child not being accepted at Holy Family School.
- Families will be notified by letter if a student’s application has been accepted or denied. This determination will be based on our professional judgment as to whether or not we can meet the applicant’s educational needs.
- Every newly admitted student is on probationary status for up to ninety days.
Child Development Center – Registration for 2, 3 and 4 year olds at the Holy Family Child Development Center is on-going. Contact the Director for further information.
Statement of Non-Discrimination--The school admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students in the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, or athletic and other school-administered programs.
Pre-Registration for New Students--This pre-registration is held in the spring. Notification of date is made through the Parish bulletins.
Kindergarten--Children who reach the age of five (5) on or before October 1st are eligible. Parishioners of Holy Family must register their Kindergartner by Feb. 10 of the year the child is to begin school. After Feb. 10, registration will be open to non-parishioners/non-Catholics on a first come, first served basis.
All prospective Kindergarten students will be screened in the spring prior to admission. Enrollment in Kindergarten for the upcoming school year is contingent upon the student’s successful screening.
First Grade-- Children who reach the age of six (6) on or before October 1st are eligible.
Applicants for kindergarten and first grade should present birth certificates as proof of age. Applications for other grade levels are accepted at this time.
All applications for admission are reviewed according to guidelines established by the Parish School Board. They are:
When moving into our area and seeking admission to our school the following criteria must be met:
A. All fees due to the previous school must be paid before acceptance can be granted.
B. If a family is transferring from another parish into Holy Family, the family must contact the rectory prior to seeking admission into the school.
In the event that we would have more students register than we have room, we will use the following guidelines:
1. Accept brothers/sisters of students currently enrolled at Holy Family.
2. Accept brothers/sisters of students formerly enrolled at Holy Family whose parents are registered in the Parish and are in good standing.
3. Accept students based on length of parents’ active participation in the Parish.
4. Accept transfers from other Catholic schools.
5. Accept other Catholic students.
6. Accept non-Catholic students.
General Registration--This registration is held in August for all students. Announcement is made through the church bulletins. Book fees are paid at this time. Kindergarten and/or first grade students must present medical examination form, an original immunization certificate, and social security card. Sixth grade students must present medical examination form.
Custody--All divorced parents must furnish the school
with a court-certified copy of the custody section of the divorce
decree. This information will help school officials in determining
when, if ever, the child can be released to the non-custodial parent.
It is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school
with any custody restrictions.
ATHLETIC PROGRAM
A program of extracurricular activities is offered to students in the school. The purpose of the program is to provide the children with the opportunity to learn skills related to team sports, but more importantly to develop habits and attitudes of cooperation, fairness, and a sense of pride in personal/team accomplishment.
Participation is a privilege not a right. All students who choose to participate must understand that their obligation to school/classroom responsibilities takes priority over participation in the sports program. A student whose social behavior and/or academic performance are less than satisfactory may be suspended from team play.
Children who are absent may not
participate in any sports activity--play or practice--held that same
day. (Refer to p. 14 for guidelines.)
ATTENDANCE
In compliance with the Kentucky State Law, Holy Family School follows compulsory attendance laws. The school calendar is published prior to the beginning of each school year. Parents/guardians are asked to honor this calendar when planning vacation and medical appointments. It is not advisable for a student to miss school or leave early for vacations, e.g. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Spring Break. Teachers will not give make-up work or tests until the student returns from vacation and at the teachers’ convenience.
The school day extends from 7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Students should not be on campus prior to 7:05 a.m. The school cannot accept responsibility for any child arriving before or staying beyond the designated times unless the child is involved in a school sponsored supervised event or After School Care program.
Absence and Tardiness--In the event your child is absent or tardy, please call the office by 9:00 a.m. A written excuse stating the date(s) and reason for the absence or tardiness must also be sent to school. Students who are absent are required to make up missed work. These students may not participate in any extra curricular event held that same day. When a student is absent for any reason other than illness, the following procedure will be used:
A. The teacher is not required to give work prior to departure.
B. Upon return, the student must contact the teacher to secure assignments.
C. A reasonable amount of time will be allotted to complete assignments and tests.
D. Students are responsible for making up assigned work and tests. Failure to do so will result in a “zero” grade for all incomplete work.
E. It is an unexcused absence for those students who take the day off to visit parent’s work.
* A student is considered tardy if he/she arrives after 7:45 A.M. Students who are tardy must report to the school office to receive a tardy slip to be admitted to class explaining their tardiness. Tardy time is added and converted into unexcused absences. All junior-high students who are tardy may be required to remain after school for each offense Students are responsible for notifying parents. A total of five tardy days are considered excessive and a parent will be contacted.
Early Release -- If your child must be excused before regular dismissal time, it will be necessary to send a note stating the reason for the dismissal, time for the child to be released, and who will call for the child--if other than the parent. All students must be picked up in the school office.
Inclement Weather -- When weather conditions cause school openings to be questionable, one of the following announcements will be made.
1. ALL CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ARE OPEN.
2. CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN JEFFERSON COUNTY WILL BE OPEN ON A DELAYED SCHEDULE.
The school building will not open until 9:00 a.m. Classes will begin at 9:30 a.m.
After School Care will be available.
School dismissal will continue to be 2:45 p.m.
3. ALL CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ARE CLOSED.
Child Development Center and After School Care will be OPEN unless radio or television stations announce that “Holy Family School Child Development Center and After School Care will be closed.”
4.
IF NO ANNOUNCEMENT IS MADE, ASSUME THAT THE SCHOOL WILL BE OPEN.
BOOK RENTAL
A fee is levied for books, workbooks,
and most other curricular supplies for students in grades K-8. This fee
is payable on registration day in August. This fee covers the rental of
texts and the purchase of supplemental materials and supplies used by
the students, assessment fee for Office of Lifelong Formation and
Education to cover its services assessment for art, music, P.E.
programs, and testing services.
CAFETERIA
The school cafeteria is operated in accordance with the Federal School Lunch Program and is supplemented accordingly. These guidelines provide for a well-balanced meal to be served daily. Menus are sent home monthly and are attached to the parent bulletin. No fast food is permitted.
Information and guidelines regarding free/reduced priced meals are available to everyone on registration day. However, if circumstances warrant, application can be made at any time. Contact the school principal.
Lunch Fee and Payment Procedure--Student lunches will be on a prepaid basis. A computerized running account is kept on each participating student. It is expected that all accounts remain current. Parents may make deposits into their child’s account at any time. Notification is sent to parents when the total in the student’s account is getting low.
Parents and grandparents special
lunches are planned for each grade throughout the school year. These
special lunch times are from 12:30-1:00pm.
CALENDAR
Holy Family School meets the state
requirements for number of student attendance days and staff
professional development days. (See Calendar in Appendix.)
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Any change of address or phone number
should be reported to the classroom teacher and the office. Any change
in information on the emergency form should likewise be reported.
CHILD CARE PROGRAM
A childcare program is available to
any school family or registered parishioner with children in grades
K-8. This program provides supervised, structured care after school
until 6:00 p.m. each day school is in session and from 7:00 a.m. until
6:00 p.m. on specified days during the school year. Our After School
Care provides homework time period.. Likewise, our Summer Care Program
provides an academic focus, as well as extras such as field trips and
theme days. For further information, contact Anita Ricks, 458-4531 ext.
26.
PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAM
Holy Family offers a two, three and
four year old pre-school program. In addition, day care is available
for pre-school students from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. five days per
week. For information, contact Holy Family Child Development Center
(458-4531 ext. 33).
CLASS PARTIES
Class parties may be held at the discretion of the classroom teacher. When held, these parties are kept simple and are not disruptive to other classes.
Soliciting Funds From Students--Any
solicitation for special classroom activities, class related projects or
gifts for individuals must have the approval of the principal.
COMMUNICATIONS
A variety of communication means are
employed to keep families informed of school news. These include the
Parish bulletin, classroom weekly academic folders and assignment
notebooks for intermediate and jr. high students. The school employs a
bi-weekly pony system using large envelopes for easy delivery. The pony
contains information relating to the activities of the school and
parish. Envelopes are to be signed and returned to verify receipt of
materials.
COMPUTERS
A computer lab is maintained for use
by students in grades K-8. Each class has a weekly scheduled time. At
the discretion of the teacher additional time may be requested.
Holy Family School follows the Archdiocese technology curriculum
and the National Educational Technology Standards.
COUNSELOR
Holy Family has a part-time counselor who is a part of the total school program. The counselor is available to the students as well as for consultation with the parents to assist them when working with their children. Students may initiate a one-time contact with the counselor without a permission slip. Written notification by parent/legal guardian is needed for further contact by the counselor.
Child
Abuse-Suspicious/Reporting - Any person who knows or has
reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent, neglected, or
abused shall immediately cause an oral or written report to be made to a
local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky State Police.
CURRICULUM
“Our curriculum mission is to develop and support exemplary Catholic education and faith formation through the application of best practices in the teaching/ learning process for all learners, so they may teach and live as Jesus did, reach their highest potential and carry out the mission of the church. “
Archdiocese of Louisville 2002
Holy Family School follows the curriculum Standards of the Archdiocese of Louisville which include the State of Kentucky and the National Curriculum Standards.
The curriculum is more than textbooks and subjects taught. It is the sum of all the planned experiences that are provided throughout the course of the school year.
Contained within our philosophy are goals specifically related to curriculum
To instruct in religious truths based on the teachings of Jesus and the doctrine of the church.
To integrate religious truths and values with the rest of living and learning so as to attain a solid Catholic identity in the midst of today's pluralistic world.
To help each student develop a positive sense of self.
To provide an academic program which emphasizes the basic skills in reading and mathematics and expanded to include the humanities, science, fine arts, and physical education.
To guide the student to develop the capacity to reason, to analyze and make responsible decisions.
To help each student become a self-directed learner who can assess him/herself and set appropriate goals.
In addition to the Archdiocese Standards, Holy Family School also emphasizes the following curriculum:
Conflict Resolution/Mediation--Building a faith community is a process that stands on the foundation of the Gospel values. Two essential values at the root of our school environment are peace and justice. Just as young people must be taught the skills to read and write, they must also be taught and allowed to practice the skills of cooperation, communication, and peacemaking.
In every grade students are taught communication skills designed to promote cooperation and problem solving. These skills include procedures for verbalizing conflict and problems in such a way as to resolve them peacefully. Class meetings are held on a regular basis and provide one vehicle for conflict resolution.
Students in grade eight have been trained to serve as conflict managers. Whenever a conflict evolves which may benefit from objective mediation, these students may be asked to guide students of any age toward peaceful resolution through a structured process of communication and active listening.
Health--The goal of this program is to help students develop a sense of awareness of what constitutes good health habits that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. This includes, but is not limited to nutrition information, physical growth and development, mental and emotional growth and development, and basic information about common diseases and disorders. Included in the health curriculum is the family life program, and drug and alcohol awareness program for Grade 5.
Family Life Education – This program supports the work of parents in the formation of their families' religious and moral values regarding respect for life and sexuality. Family Life education is a component of the health/science/religion curriculum.
DARE Program – has as its
purpose the preparation of students in making responsible decisions
about alcohol and drugs and their effects. This is presented in the 5th
grade.
Special Curriculum Programs
Supplemental Reading and Math --These programs are designed to provide individual or small group instruction to those students who demonstrate a need for supplementary assistance. Specific materials are chosen to meet the needs of the students enrolled. These classes are offered to supplement the basic reading and math programs, not to replace them. Special Reading is offered every year; Title 1 Math and reading are offered as long as Holy Family qualifies under federal and state guidelines.
Co-Curricular and Extra-Curricular Activities
Beta Club -- Beta Club is a service organization open to those 7th and 8th grade students who qualify academically. The goal of the Beta Club is to develop leadership characteristics through high achievement and service to school and community.
Cultural Arts Programs -- Students in all grades have the opportunity to attend some cultural arts programs. (Music, drama, dance, etc.) Some local groups require advance purchase of tickets with no provision for refunds.
Great Books -- The goal of this program is to enrich the basic reading program by giving to recommended students in grades 2-8 the opportunity to read and discuss selected works of notable authors. Students are divided into three levels with each level meeting weekly for one trimester.
Junior Achievement Programs -- Junior Achievement Programs are sponsored by a group of local businesses and civic leaders. These programs are designed for students in grades K-5 & 8.
Quick Recall Teams -- Intramural academic competition is sponsored by the Catholic Schools Academic League. This competition is open to students in grades 4-8. The team meets for a period of eight weeks.
Student Council -- The Student Council is an elected body composed of representatives from all grade levels. This organization provides the opportunity for all students (through their elected representatives) to participate creatively with the faculty in the operation and development of the school. It also provides numerous opportunities for students to develop and exercise leadership skills.
Holy Family Parish Athletics -- See Athletic Programs pg.8
Participating in Co-Curricular and Extra-Curricular Activities -- (School Board Policy)
It is our goal to help our students academically achieve at the highest level possible for each individual. Students vary in academic ability, but each is capable of giving his/her very best effort. Individual learning differences are considered when realistic goals and expectations are set for each student.
Student progress is evaluated based on these expectations:
- It is expected that every student will turn in every assignment and make up all missed work from absences. Missed assignments will earn the grade of 0% that will be averaged with other earned grades.
- It is expected that students will be attentive in class, actively participate, exert maximum effort on written work, maintain a practice of daily home study, and seek help when it is needed. Students who do not test well will benefit from the display of outstanding effort and study.
- It is expected that students will exert reasonable effort to prepare for tests, quizzes and daily classes. Students must be expected to display a competence through the use of written tests. Daily study will aid retention of skills and knowledge of basic content.
Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s progress and homework and to work with their child and their child’s teacher proactively to ensure that their child’s eligibility to participate in the valuable extra-curricular activities offered at Holy Family is never in jeopardy.
Academic eligibility for extra-curricular participation is determined by student progress based on the previously explained expectations.
* At conference and report cards, all students in grades 4-8 are expected to have a “C” average in letter grade curriculum or a passing in pass/fail curriculum subjects. Those who do not will be placed on academic probation for 15 school days.
If after 15 school days the student has raised the below average grade to at least a C, he/she will be removed from the ineligible list.
If after 15 school days the student has not raised the below average grade to at least a C, he/she will remain on the ineligible list until conferences/report cards.
At the next conference/report cards, all students will again be evaluated and the process for eligibility begins again.
While on suspension, a student does not participate in practices or meetings. In sports programs, a suspended player may attend the game but may not participate.
The principal will notify the athletic
director and club moderators when a student is ineligible to participate
in extra-curricular activities. The student will be notified in writing
at each step in the process.
DISCIPLINE
The discipline code of Holy Family School follows the guidelines established by the Office of Lifelong Formation and Education. These guidelines are as follows:
The goal of Christian discipline is self-discipline. The student freely chooses one form of behavior over another; and must learn to accept the consequences of that chosen behavior. The student who chooses specific actions, which violate the rights of the school community, will be dealt with in Christian justice.
In guiding the student's growth in habits of virtue and in Christian attitudes, we emphasize positive approaches. Nevertheless, there are moments when the teacher is confronted with real disciplinary problems. In such cases, the following guidelines are being issued.
Any effective disciplinary action must be:
1. deserved, and the student must understand what he or she has done and the consequences of that behavior;
2. constructive and proportionate to the act;
3. applied as soon as possible after the act, but with careful deliberation by the teacher.
Procedures aimed at changing inappropriate behavior follow this sequence as a normal rule.
1. teacher conference with student to seek an understanding and solution;
2. consequences set up: extra work, detention, etc.;
3. conference of teacher, student and principal;
4. plan for improvement formulated - consequences set up such as:
- isolation with supervision
- loss of privileges
- conference with parents
5. probation period put into effect;
6. suspension in/from school
Probation and Suspension
Probation and suspension will be used only when normal disciplinary procedures have failed or in cases of exceptionally severe breaches of discipline. Only the principal has the authority to administer probation or suspension as a disciplinary measure.
Probation
This is a disciplinary procedure by which a student is evaluated by a teacher and principal in regard to his/her attitude and behavior over a specified period of time. This procedure is followed in order to determine the student's resolve to remain in the school community.
Procedure for Probation
1. The principal has a conference with the student, teacher and contacts parents to advise them of reasons, conditions and length of probation.
2. The pastor and superintendent of Catholic Schools are advised immediately.
3. After the period of probation, a second conference is held for evaluation and to determine whether the probation is to be terminated or extended.
Suspension - Temporary or Indefinite
Temporary Suspension
This is a disciplinary procedure by which a student is removed from the school/class for a specified period of time. Temporary suspension gives the student an opportunity to realize that certain aspects of his/her attitude and behavior are unacceptable to the school community.
Procedure For Temporary Suspension
If, in the principal's judgment, temporary suspension is necessary, he/she:
1. has a conference with student (and teacher)
2. consults the pastor
3. informs the parents and any others, as circumstances demand
4. sends a written statement of the conditions and reasons for the action to the Associate Superintendent for Elementary Schools and to the parents.
Indefinite Suspension
This is a disciplinary procedure by which a student is removed from the
school indefinitely. Indefinite suspension is used in those cases where
probation and temporary suspension seem inadequate to affect the desired
changes in the student's attitude and behavior.
THE CATHOLIC SCHOOL AS MINISTER
One of the tasks of the Catholic School is to minister to students in need, and to do so in a collaborative way with their families and with any professionals whose assistance may be required. It is the task of the school, therefore, when necessary to assist the family in its primary responsibility of caring for its child. Therefore, a Catholic School feels obligated to intervene with students and families when it becomes aware of serious situations, such as possible suicide, teenage pregnancy, child abuse, and alcohol/drug abuse.
Thus the Catholic School reserves the
right, after consultation with the pastor and the appropriate
professional(s), to insist that appropriate steps be taken to resolve
the situation.
SCHOOL REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES
Students in Holy Family School are expected to be caring members of this school community. As such, there are some standards of conduct expected of each. These include, but are not limited to:
Respecting Other People By Being Courteous--Students are expected to be polite and courteous at all times. This implies the use of "Please," and "Thank You,” and avoiding the use of name- calling and put-downs.
Respecting Others Through The Choice Of Language--Use of offensive language is unacceptable at any time. Should an individual student fail to respond to correction, a letter stating the circumstances of the offense will be sent to the parents or guardians.
Defiance and Disrespectful Behavior--Students who are defiant and/or disrespectful to any staff member will serve a one-hour detention after school. Three detentions will result in an in-school suspension.
Respecting Others On The Playground--Any activity that could result in an injury or could provoke other students is not permitted at any time on the school grounds.
Fighting--Students are taught skills for peacefully resolving conflict. It is expected, therefore, that fighting will not occur. Students who do engage in fighting will serve an hour detention after school. Three detentions will result in an in-school suspension.
Respecting Parish/School Property and Property of Others--Students who deliberately mar, deface, or in any way damage the property of the parish/school and/or the property of others will be required to make restitution.
Responsibility To Be Prepared For School--Each student is expected to have needed materials and supplies for each class. This includes class assignments. Each student is likewise expected to care for his or her personal items.
Responsibility To Move Quietly Through The Building--There can be no loud or unnecessary talking in the halls. Students and teachers, and other staff members working in their rooms have a right to be uninterrupted.
Responsibility To Refrain From:
- smoking on parish property;
- bringing matches, lighters, firecrackers, knives, or any potentially hazardous items;
- chewing gum on school property or field trips;
- wearing makeup to school;
- wearing distracting jewelry or buttons;
- bringing toys, radios, CD players, cell phones, or pagers to school;
- possession, distribution and/or use of any drugs or drug derivatives classified as a stimulant or depressant such as tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, etc. without the authorization of a physician. When authorized, parent or guardian must furnish written notification to the office. Disregard for this policy subjects the student to disciplinary action.
Special Attention Is Called To The Following:
Harassment--The Schools of the Archdiocese do not condone any form of harassment. All individuals are to be treated with dignity and respect. Harassment in any form (sexual, verbal, physical and/or visual) is prohibited. The prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all individuals involved in the school.
Holy Family School Procedures for dealing with harassment of and by students:
1. If harassment occurs, the student should report the incident(s) to an appropriate school official (teacher, principal) IMMEDIATELY.
2. Upon receipt of the complaint, the principal will initiate an investigation of the complaint, including a meeting with related parties. Written documentation will be made at the time of the conference and both parties will be asked to verify the correctness of the written documentation.
3. Based on the results of the investigation, the principal will report to all parties involved an opinion and conclusion as to whether the harassment occurred as well as other relevant information. A conference may be set up to further discuss the incident if the parents and/or principal desire it.
4. The pastor will be made aware of any harassment incident(s).
5. The principal, with consultation of teacher(s) and/or counselor and/or pastor, will decide what, if any disciplinary action is warranted.
6. Disciplinary action for students may follow the following steps:
a. Meeting with parents and student to discuss the incident and set up a behavior modification program
b. Detention(s) to be served for the harassment incident(s).
c. Counseling or similar recommendation.
d. Possible isolation of student from other students in situation where harassment occurs.
e. If harassment still continues, possible out of school suspension.
f. In extreme cases, possible indefinite suspension from Holy Family School.
Threatening Behavior--Any behavior deemed threatening is inappropriate and may result in immediate suspension and/or dismissal from school. Threatening behavior is defined as statements, gestures, or actions intended to cause harm to another and/or damage to property.
Behaviors deemed threatening are to be addressed in the following manner.
1. Student exhibiting threatening behavior is removed from the situation and placed under the direct supervision of appropriate school personnel.
2. Student’s parent/guardian is notified. Pastor and Superintendent of Schools are also apprised.
3. Student is suspended from school pending the results of a mental health assessment conducted by an appropriately credentialed professional. Principals may consult with the Family Counseling office for assistance in determining an adequate mental health assessment.
4. Student may not attend school, any school activity, or be present on school grounds pending the results of the mental health assessment and a final placement decision.
5. Mental health assessment results and recommendations are shared with the principal who makes a final placement decision that may include conditions for reinstatement and follow up. In making the final placement decision, the principal considers the results of the mental health assessment, any history of problematic behavior, the circumstances surrounding the threatening behavior, the nature of the threat, the developmental stage of the student, and other relevant information.
6. If a student engages in threatening behavior a second time, the student may be dismissed from school.
Homicidal Threats -- If a homicidal threat is made, the above steps are to be followed, and the police are to be contacted. The student(s) who have been threatened, as well as their parents, are to be notified as soon as possible.
Range of Penalties -- It is possible to have a range of penalties that take into consideration the age of the child. Very young children who make threatening statements may be required to attend a conference in which the student and parent are clearly told that any further threats will result in suspension and require mental health assessment. Definitions and penalties should be clear.
False Threats -- Any student falsely reporting threatening behavior is subject to disciplinary action, which may include suspension and/or dismissal from school.
Consultation -- The Superintendent, Director of Family Counseling, and the Associate Director of School Counseling are available to consult with schools dealing with threatening behavior.
Substance Use -- The possession, distribution and/or use of any drugs or drug derivative classified as a stimulant or depressant, e.g. tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, etc., is prohibited without the authorization of a physician. When authorized, parent or guardian must furnish written notification to the principal's office. Disregard for this policy subjects the student to disciplinary action.
Search or Seizure
– Students should not bring any items to school that may need
to be taken from them to protect self, other students or school
personnel. If there is a reason to believe that a student is carrying a
dangerous item, the student will be asked to empty pockets, purse,
bookbags, etc. If the student refuses, and there is reason to believe
that others are in danger, the principal will take whatever action
appears to be necessary to gain possession of the item. Other
inappropriate behavior will result in a consequence.
STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES
Kentucky Law Regarding Dangerous Weapons -- Unlawful possession of a weapon on school property in Kentucky is a felony punishable by a maximum of five (5) years in prison and a ten thousand ($10,000) fine.
Non-Smoking Policy -- Smoking is prohibited in the
school building.
DISMISSAL
The first bell rings at 2:42 p.m.
dismissing walkers and after-school care students. A second bell rings
at 2:45 p.m. dismissing car riders. Students leave in an orderly manner
by the exit designated for them. A teacher accompanies all groups to
the parking area. Students may not return to the building without
permission.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Fire, tornado, earthquake and intruder
drills are held at regular intervals. Students are instructed regarding
proper conduct and procedures. All students are expected to know and
follow them.
FIELD TRIPS
As an extension of class work, students may be taken on field trips. This opportunity is a privilege not a right. If in-school behavior warrants, privilege will be revoked. All field trips are planned by the classroom teacher/teachers to meet a specific educational goal. On all school sponsored field trips:
- school employees serve as chaperones and maintain a supervisory role (parent volunteer chaperones may accompany)
- school rules are enforced
- violators of said rules could be removed and sent home at parents' expense (applicable to out of town trips)
Field trips, in the name of the school, cannot be planned by a parent group or a Parish group without the expressed consent of the Parish School Board. Any and all field trips must meet the criteria for educational enrichment. Students who receive three detentions may forfeit the privilege of participating in field trips.
Permission Slip--Parents or guardians must sign an official school form giving permission for their child or children to participate in the field trip experience. Any student who does not have this official form signed and returned to school by dismissal the day before the trip will not be permitted to leave the school premises. There is a blank field trip permission form in the Appendix you may copy or use. A copy may also be obtained in the school office for a fee of 25¢.
Transportation--Most field trips are made on
the school bus. Each trip is assessed a cost according to time and
distance. Due to the rising cost, no refunds can be given for field
trips. In order for parents to be permitted to drive students to any
academic or extra-curricular activity, the school must have on file a
copy of that individual’s driver’s license and a copy of their insurance
card. The driver must be at least 25 years old.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial assistance to meet the cost
of a Catholic education is available to parishioners. Those wishing to
apply may contact the pastor or principal. All information is kept
confidential. (See p. 26 for related information.) There is also an
organization entitled “School Choice” that awards scholarships for
Catholic/non-Catholic students in grades K-6. Applications are
available in late Feb/early March. Call the school office for more
information. Tuition assistance may be available during the school
year. Call the school office for information.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
We believe in promoting a spirit of openness and willing cooperation between family and school. However, at times it may become necessary to work out honest disagreements about school related matters. In the event this becomes necessary the following steps are suggested for resolving these differences.
1. Confer with the teacher(s) or staff member.
2. Confer with the principal.
3. Contact School Board representative.
4. Contact the Superintendent of Archdiocese schools
5. Confer with the
pastor.
HEALTH
Medical Examinations -- Upon initial enrollment a medical examination will be required of each child within six months prior to or one month following entry.
Fifth Grade -- A medical examination is required of each child prior to entering sixth grade.
Immunization Records -- Each student in school must have an up-to-date original immunization certificate on file. Parents or guardians are requested to forward this information to the school each time personal records have been updated. Immunization records must be turned in to the school office by 1st day of school.
AIDS Policy -- The school will follow the policy adopted by the State and Local Departments of Health in dealing with students identified with the HIV-III virus (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, AIDS).
Regulations -- A student infected with AIDS will be permitted to attend classes, as long as a panel consisting of an official of the local Board of Health, the student’s physician, the parent/guardian, and the Superintendent judge that the student poses NO REASONABLE RISK to other persons in the school. Reports/information related to either school employees or students who have allegedly or actually contracted AIDS or HIV will be provided ONLY to the Principal, who will in turn inform the Superintendent. The panel will decide which, if any person in the school, for the protection of the student, has a direct need to know that the child is infected. The confidentiality requirement will be made clear to such persons. The right to privacy of the infected individual will at all times be protected.
Medicine Policy -- If your child has a particular health problem, please inform the office in order that we may take proper precautions. Please prescribe medications before or after school hours. If this is not possible, the following instructions must accompany your child’s medicine.
For dispensing prescription drugs, a completed “Form for Prescribed Medication” signed by the physician or authorized prescriber is needed. This form stays in the student’s file for the school year. A new form is needed each school year. Also, a note is required indicating the time and amount that is to be given to the student. The medicine must be in the original container. See Medication Permission Form in Appendix.
Non-prescription (over-the-counter) medications may be accepted on an individual basis as provided by the parent/legal guardian provided a completed “Form for Prescribed Medication” is on file. Prolonged use of non-prescription medication should be discouraged. Physician or health care provider approval is required for use of non-prescrip