St. Clement School
Handbook
for
Students and
Parents
St.Clement School Revised 6/06
4534 Vine Street
St. Bernard, Ohio 45217
513-641-2137
FAX 513-242-6036
www.stcschool.org
St. Clement School
Handbook
for
Students and
Parents
St.Clement School Revised 5/05
4534 Vine Street
St. Bernard, Ohio 45217
513-641-2137
FAX 513-242-6036
www.stcschool.org
ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL MISSION
The primary mission of St. Clement School includes the formal teaching of the Catholic Faith and the communication, the development, and the modeling of Franciscan values that will last a lifetime. We are committed to the academic development of our students in an environment of educational excellence to prepare them for the challenges of a global society.
STATEMENT OF BELIEFS
As a Catholic community, we have established these beliefs, which serve as directives for the purpose and operation of our school.
INTRODUCTION FOR PARENTS
This handbook has been prepared to clarify questions parents sometimes have regarding school philosophy and procedures. Your attitude toward the parish school is most important. The respect you manifest for the school and individual teachers will be absorbed by your child. Only if your child respects the mutual authority of the parents and teachers will he/she be able to make a success of his/her education.
We hope this handbook will be of assistance and that it will serve as a link in the cooperation between home and school. Please study this handbook with your child and keep it handy for reference.
Since situations arise that were not foreseen at the time of writing this handbook, the principal and Education Commission reserve the right to amend the handbook. Parents and students will be promptly notified of any changes.
OPERATIONS OF ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL
ADMISSION
St. Clement has an open admission policy and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or ancestry.
Before admission to kindergarten through grade eight the following must be on file in the school office:
1. Certificate of Birth
2. Certificate of Baptism (if applicable)
3. Last report card
4. Health records
5. Results of achievement tests
To register, parents should call or visit the school office. New students are accepted on a probationary status with regard to their academic and/or disciplinary performance for one academic quarter. All new students will be evaluated to insure proper academic placement.
Students entering St. Clement School after school has begun for the year must have a satisfactory report from the previous school. These students will also be evaluated to insure proper academic placement. They also will be on probationary status for one academic quarter.
Application for re-admission of a student presently at St. Clement School will be denied if there is consistently unacceptable behavior that is deemed detrimental to the best interest of the class and school or if there is a learning difficulty which requires special educational or psychological services not available to the normal classroom situation.
The policy of the school is to provide a comprehensive program to assist parents in fulfilling their duty for the Catholic education of their children. Parents who wish to entrust their children to St. Clement Parish School must realize; however, that there are limits to what the school can provide:
The school is limited in the extent of the educational program it can provide; parents with exceptional children may be asked to look elsewhere for the proper educational setting for their child.
The school is limited to the extent it can deal with disciplinary and behavioral problems. Parents may be asked to obtain counseling for their child or may even be asked to find another educational setting if the administration of the school determines the school can not assist a student.
The final decision of acceptance is the responsibility of the principal who will consider the intellectual, emotional, physical, and social needs of the students and how the programs of the school can meet those needs.
The following is the registration order:
1. Any student already attending St. Clement School
2. Additional children of St. Clement Parishioners with students already attending St. Clement School.
3. Children of St. Clement parishioners with no children already attending St. Clement School as well as children of families of affiliated parishes (St. Bernard-Winton Place, New Jerusalem-Winton Place, and Mother of Christ-Winton Place) with students already attending St. Clement School.
4. Children of non-St. Clement families with students already in St. Clement School:
4a. Non-affiliated parishes with no school
4b. Non-affiliated parishes with a school
4c. Non-affiliated, no parish
5. Children of non-St. Clement families with no students already attending St. Clement School:
5a. Affiliated parishes
5b. Non-affiliated parishes with no school
5c. Non-affiliated parishes with a school
5d. Non-affiliated, no parish
A
RRIVAL/DISMISSALIN THE MORNING:
The doors to the school will be locked until 7:40 A.M. No staff is on the grounds for supervision before that time. Please do not bring children before 7:40 A.M. If students arrive between 7:40 and 7:50, they should report to the cafeteria. Between 7:50-8:00, students should report to their homerooms. If students arrive after 8:05 A.M., they must report to the office. Regular and punctual attendance is expected of all students.
THE DAY:
School begins at 8:05 A.M. and ends at 2:40 P.M.
Pre-School begins at 9:00 A.M and ends at 11:30 A.M. on the assigned days for three and four year olds.
DISMISSAL:
Students will not be permitted in the building after school except for supervised activities. Parents/guardians of any student who must regularly stay later than 2:40 must make other arrangements for supervision. Students will not be permitted to wait in the school. Students ARE NOT permitted to wait in the gym for sports practice.
ATTENDANCE
ABSENCES/TARDIES
Healthy students are expected to be in school every day.
Do not send a sick child to school. For attendance purposes, a healthy student has been fever free for 24 hours, has not vomited for 24 hours, and does not have a contagious rash or disease.
According to State Bill 321, parents are required to notify the school when a child is absent. When a child is going to be absent, a call to the school office is necessary (641-2137) no later than 8:15 A.M. Parents will be called if the school has not been given prior notice of an absence. Even if there is an extended illness, parents/guardians are expected to notify the school daily.
Excused absences are defined as personal illness, death in the family, funeral of a relative and any other extenuating circumstances as approved by the principal. All other absences are considered unexcused.
Routine doctor or dentist appointments should be planned when school is not in session. Family vacations should not be taken when school is in session. Students on vacation during the regular school year are marked absent.
Upon returning to class after an absence, students must present a signed note from the parents/guardians stating the reason for the absence. After the third day that a child is absent, a doctor’s note is required for the child to be readmitted to school.
A student who is absent at least two class periods in a day but less than five periods will be considered absent at least 1/2 day.
Any student who is tardy or leaves the school premises during the course of the school day for any reason will not be considered eligible for perfect attendance. Any absences excused or unexcused will prohibit a student from receiving perfect attendance.
A student who has been tardy more than seven times in a quarter will be assigned a school detention. For students who are habitually tardy or absent the principal may request a conference with the parent. The school psychologist may also be asked to attend this conference. Notification of the school district 's attendance officer may occur in attempt to remedy the situation. The final recourse will be to file truancy charges.
Those who are tardy will receive a tardy slip for admittance to their class.
Missed assignments due to illness are to be made up. Students are responsible for acquiring and completing work that was missed while they were absent. Missing assignments are due the day after a student returns to class, unless otherwise specified by the teacher. If possible work should be requested to be sent home with another student or picked-up in the office after 2:40 P.M.
CHILD ABUSE
St. Clement School will follow the Archdiocese's Decree on Child Abuse. Training is required for ALL who are in a supervisory position over children. This includes school personnel and regular volunteers. (Some examples are teachers, coaches, scout leaders, computer aides, etc.)
COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
To facilitate better communication between home and school, parents should follow the following procedure when there is a concern involving a teacher or class:
Parents should first address their concern directly to the teacher. This is to be arranged through a phone call to the teacher. Upon receipt of the message the teacher will return your phone call at his/her earliest convenience. Please give the teacher the courtesy of making an appointment.
If, after seeing the teacher, the parents are not satisfied with the results, they should then address their concern with the principal. The principal will listen to the concern of the parent, talk to the teacher involved, and then facilitate a meeting with the parents and teacher, to resolve any issue that may still exist. After this meeting if there are still unresolved issues, a meeting will be arranged between the principal, the pastor (or his designate), and the parents to arrive at a solution. A facilitator from the Catholic School Office of the Archdiocese may become involved if warranted.
Parent/Teacher conferences will be held as announced.
CUSTODY
If your child is not living with either natural parents or guardians, the following information should be provided in writing to the office at the beginning of the school year:
-Names of persons permitted to review records of the student.
-Names of persons permitted to communicate with or pick up student from school.
-Names of persons NOT permitted to have contact with student.
-Where applicable, a copy of the court order or divorce decree regarding custody and visitation rights.
A copy of this information will be kept in the student's file. School personnel, e.g., principal, secretary, student's teacher(s), who might have contact with the non-residential parent, should be made aware of any limitations on the rights of the non-residential parent that exist. All information will be kept confidential.
DRESS CODE FOR ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL
All students should be in regular school uniforms. If they cannot be in uniform they should present a note to the teacher stating the reason.
Girl's Uniform
Grades 1-5--Plaid jumper-The jumper may not be shorter than 2" above the knee.
Grades 6-8--Plaid skirt-The skirt may not be shorter than 2" above the knee.
Skirts may not be rolled at the waist.
Uniforms may be purchased through Campus Outfitters.
Blouses/Shirts: White, with collar-long or short sleeves.
White sport shirt with collar. Sport shirts with the St. Clement logo are acceptable.
Plain, white turtlenecks
Light blue shirts can be worn with the uniform slacks or shorts
Anything worn under the uniform shirt MUST be solid white
Blouses or shirts MUST be tucked in at all times.
Shorts Twill dress shorts in navy blue or khaki may be worn from May 1 through September 30. Shorts must be no shorter than 2" above the knee. Shorts may not be rolled up (see
additional restrictions listed under slacks).
Slacks: Twill dress pants in navy blue or khaki are to be worn. Pants cannot be denim or Jean type material. Pants may not have colored trim, rivets, tabs, or pockets down the leg.
Belts: If pants have belt loops, a belt MUST be worn.
Sweatshirts: St. Clement spiritwear (unhooded only, no zippers). Uniform blouse or shirt MUST be worn underneath. Fleece sweatshirts and/or jackets are not permitted.
Sweater: Solid navy blue, gray, red, or white-pullover or cardigan
Socks: Solid navy, red, white, or gray. Socks must be high enough to cover the ankle.
Navy blue tights or leotards may be worn under the plaid skirt or jumper.
Shoes: School shoes preferred - gym shoes are acceptable. Avoid very deep grooved shoes.
Boots, clogs, or sandals of any kind are not allowed for safety reasons.
Hats/Jackets: No hats or jackets may be worn in the building during school hours.
Make-up No Make-up of any kind is permissible, including lip-gloss
No nail polish of any type
No acrylic nails
No tattoos-this includes temporary or permanent
Hair No extreme styles or symbols cut in hair.
No dyed, bleached, highlighted, or colored hair.
Jewelry One post earring may be worn in each ear on the lobe
A watch is permissible; however, no bracelets of any kind may be worn.
One simple religious necklace may be worn.
One simple ring on each hand is permitted.
No hanging key chains allowed.
No body piercing.
Boy's Uniform
Slacks: Twill solid navy blue or khaki. Pants cannot be denim or jean type material. Pants may not have colored trim, rivets, tabs, or pockets down the leg.
Belts If there are belt loops, a belt MUST be worn.
Shirts: Dress shirt or sport shirt may be worn. The shirts must be solid colored, light blue or white with a collar.
White turtlenecks are permissible.
Sport shirts may have a St. Clement logo on them.
Shirts MUST be tucked in at all times.
Anything worn under the uniform shirt MUST be solid white.
Sweaters: Solid navy blue, red, white, or gray. Pullover or cardigan.
Sweatshirts: St. Clement spiritwear (unhooded only, no zippers). Uniform shirt MUST be worn
underneath. Fleece sweatshirs and/or jackets are not permitted.
Socks: Solid navy blue, white, gray, or red. Socks must cover the ankles.
Shoes: School shoes preferred - gym shoes are acceptable. Avoid very deep grooved shoes.
Boots, sandals, or clogs are not allowed because of safety reasons.
Hats/Jackets: No hats or jackets may be worn in the building during school hours.
Jewelry: A watch is permissible; however, no bracelets of any kind may be worn.
One simple religious necklace may be worn.
One simple ring on each hand is permissible.
No earrings are permitted.
No hanging key chains.
No body piercing.
No tattoos-This includes temporary or permanent.
Hair: No extreme styles or symbols cut in the hair.
No dyed, bleached, highlighted, or colored hair.
No facial hair permitted.
Nametags: All students are required to wear the school nametag, which is provided at the beginning of the year. Students are responsible for the cost of any replacements. Students are not
permitted to alter or disfigure the nametags in any manner.
Physical Education Dress Code
All students in grades K-8 are required to wear gym shoes to P.E. class.
Students in grades 5-8 are required to change out of their school uniform for P.E. class. Appropriate T-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, or sweatshirts should be worn. Jeans or jean shorts are not permitted. Any article of clothing worn in P.E. class may NOT be worn underneath school clothes.
Out of Uniform Days
Occasionally throughout the school year there will be dress-down days. Students will be permitted to be out of uniform on those days. However, appropriate clothing must be worn. Jeans, sweatshirts, etc. are permitted. Spirit Days are those in which the student may wear red and white clothing or St. Clement spiritwear with jeans.
Neatness and cleanliness of dress and person are expected at all times. Students wear uniforms for school trips unless the nature of the trip calls for another kind of dress.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
If your child becomes sick or injured at school, we will provide emergency care that may legally be given. Parents will be notified if it is recommended that the child leave school for further care. If the parents cannot be reached, we will consult your child's EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FORM and follow the direction you have indicated. ALL students are required to have EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FORMS in the office after the first week of school. IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY FOR THE SCHOOL OFFICE TO BE AWARE OF ANY CHANGES IN ADDRESSES, HOME PHONE NUMBERS, AND WORK PHONE NUMBERS. Please call or send a note to the school office immediately when there is a change. Our emergency cards are only as useful as the information you give us.
Fire and tornado drills are held in accordance with Ohio State Law. Directions for evacuation of the building or tornado procedures are posted in each room. Students are expected to maintain absolute silence during these emergency drills. If there is a tornado warning, it is advisable to keep the children in school where they would be safer than trying to take them home and possibly getting caught in the tornado or severe weather.
St. Bernard Evacuation-The St. Bernard Police and Fire Departments have disaster plans in place to deal with emergencies. If there is a chemical emergency affecting the school area, the children will follow the disaster plan put into effect by the city.
HEALTH SERVICES
NURSE: St. Bernard Health Department provides a registered nurse one day a week.. She is available to do vision and hearing testing on students in grades K, 1,3,5, and 7. She also does scoliosis screening on student in grades 6, 7, and 8. The nurse is also available as a resource person for all students and staff. By making a request through the office or the student's teacher, you may request a screening for your child outside the designated grades.
ILLNESS: No student is permitted to leave school due to illness unless a parent/designated adult is notified. Students who are ill must report to the office before a parent is notified.
IMMUNIZATIONS: The Ohio Department of Health has established the following requirements:
1. Four D.P.T. or Td (adult) vaccine or combination
2. Three or more doses of Trivalent Oral Polio Vaccine
3. Two MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) after first birthday
All dates must be on file by October 1 or the student will be excluded from school until dates are received. This is Ohio State Law.
Students enrolling from outside of Hamilton County should be tested for tuberculosis within 90 days of entering the school.
MEDICATION POLICY:
When it is necessary for school personnel to administer medication, the following guidelines are strictly adhered to:
1. All school personnel are informed that the administration of any drug (prescription or over-the-counter) without the order of a physician and the parent/guardian could be interpreted as practicing medicine and is prohibited by law.
2. Whenever possible, medication should be administered before or after school hours.
A. Medication forms are sent home with registration packets. Extra forms are available in the office.
B. A separate medication form must be completed for each medication administered.
C. A revised statement, signed by the prescribing physician and the parent/guardian must be submitted whenever any change from the original physician order occurs.
D. New medication forms must be submitted at the beginning of each school year.
3. Medication forms must be completed by physician and/or parent/guardian before school personnel may administer any medication. The information must include the name of the medication, dosage, route of administration, duration of medication and possible side effects.
4. The medication must be in the original container in which it was dispensed. It must have an affixed label including the student's name, name of medication, dosage, route of administration and the time of administration.
5. Students are not permitted to carry medication (including asthma inhalers) on their person unless there is an agreement with school personnel and the parent/guardian and the prescribing physician has submitted a medication form.
6. It must be recognized that there are certain limitations to the responsibilities, which the school can assume in administering medications.
A. It is the student's responsibility to remember to take the medication.
B. The school cannot guarantee that a rigid time schedule for the administration of medication can be followed.
STUDENTS WHO SELF-ADMINISTER MEDICATION DURING SCHOOL HOURS ARE IN VIOLATION OF THESE RULES.
MESSAGES
The school secretary will not deliver non-emergency messages to the students during the school day. Only in true emergencies should parents attempt to get messages to students.
Avoid calling the school near dismissal time, 2:00-2:40 P.M. There is a lot of activity at this time of day and we cannot guarantee that messages that are received after 2:00 will be delivered to your child. Unless it is an emergency, please make arrangements for what your child is doing after school before the school day begins. Emergencies do happen and we are aware of that and plans need to be changed, but emergencies should be the exception and not a regular occurrence.
TUITION COMMITMENT
In order to maintain an excellent educational environment, we rely upon timely payment of your tuition commitment. Tuition is due on the 20th of each month beginning in August and ending in May. There is a 5% discount given if payment of tuition is made in full by the first Friday of September. Monthly statements are mailed.
Report cards will not be given to students at the end of any quarter if the tuition commitment is not up to date. Continual non-payment of tuition may result in dismissal from the school.
SNOW DAYS AND EMERGENCY CLOSING
In the event of inclement weather, St. Clement School will be closed and/or on delay if you hear the following on the radio and/or TV: St. Clement School – closed or delayed.
Please do not call the school or rectory for school closing information.
In the event that St. Clement School would need to close early, parents will be notified through an established phone call list. Please keep the information current on all emergency forms.
VISITORS
St. Clement welcomes visitors, particularly parents. However, to insure that a safe, academic atmosphere with minimal interruptions is maintained, all visitors must report to the school office and sign in. The visitor will receive a nametag to be allowed in the building at that time. This includes computer volunteers or room helpers. No one is permitted in the building during the school day without first coming to the school office. Any visitor without a pass will be reported immediately to the office and will be asked to leave the building. Forgotten lunches, lunch money, schoolbooks, etc. should be brought to the office, not the classroom.
If a parent wishes to sit in on his/her child’s class, he/she must make this request of the principal at least a day in advance.
WITHDRAWALS
Withdrawal of a student must be directed to the principal in writing with indication of the official date of withdrawal.
INSTRUCTION AND CURRICULUM
BOOKS AND SUPPLIES
Loaner textbooks are distributed at the beginning of the school year and as needed during the year. Workbooks are also provided as needed.
ALL NON-CONSUMABLE TEXTBOOKS (THIS INCLUDES HARDBACK AND PAPERBACK), MUST BE COVERED AT ALL TIMES. Parents are urged to encourage their children to take good care of the books that they use and to see that they are well covered and clearly marked. Students are expected to use ALL equipment, materials, and books with care and respect. The student will be fined for any damage to the book.
Each student is responsible for his or her books as well as school and personal property. The student's name must be clearly marked on any personal items brought to school, especially sweaters, sweatshirts, and gym clothes.
Students are also expected to have the necessary items for classes such as paper, pencils, etc.
No electronic equipment of any type, including but not limited to, beepers, cell phones, video games, tape recorders, radios, CD players, and/or headsets may be brought to school unless the students has been directed by a teacher to do so. If a student is found with any of the above listed items, the school has the right to conviscate the item.
CAFETERIA
The cafeteria is available for the entire student body. Hot lunches are available for a charge of $1.75 per day. Free and reduced lunches are available to families who qualify by filling out the federal form. (This information is held in strictest confidence between the parents and principal.) Milk, juice, and slushies are available for those students who wish to pack their lunch.
Each student is assigned a charge code that is used to deduct lunch charges from his/her account. This number code will remain the same while the child is a student at St. Clement. Parents may pay in advance, and any money left over at the end of the school year will be returned. Money is collected everyday in the cafeteria before 8:05 A.M. The money should be enclosed in an envelope with the student's name, homeroom, and charge code number. This alleviates the exchange of money during the busy lunch rush. Teachers take a daily lunch count in homeroom to determine the number of hot and cold lunches.
Children are informed when their lunch account is getting low. Delinquent account notes are sent home on Wednesdays. If the account is not paid by the following Monday, the child will be served a peanut butter and jelly sandwich until Wednesday of that week. After that no lunch will be served until the account is paid.
The children are expected to show the same manners and respect for each other, school property, and the authority of the workers in the cafeteria as in the classroom. All food is to be eaten in the cafeteria and not carried to the playground or classroom.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are planned as part of the instructional program. However, these trips are viewed as a privilege, not a right. Not every grade will participate in a field trip. Parents and/or guardians are required to sign the school permission slip. NO student will be permitted to join his/her class without a signed permission slip on file (see following page). Please return the entire slip without removing the section at the bottom. Participation in planned trips will be at the discretion of the principal.
St. Clement School
St. Bernard, Ohio
Dear Parent or Guardian: Today’s Date______________
A school-sponsored activity that requires transportation to a location away from the school site has been planned for your child’s class. This activity will take place under the supervision of employees of St. Clement School. Field trips are privileges afforded to students. No student has an absolute right to a field trip. Students can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavioral requirements.
The following is a brief description of the activity:
Curriculum Goal: ____________________________________________________________________
Destination:_________________________________________________________________________
Designated Supervisor(s):______________________________________________________________
Date and Time of Departure:____________________________________________________________
Date and Anticipated Time of Return:____________________________________________________
Method of Transportation:______________________________________________________________
If you would like your child to participate in this activity, please complete and sign the following
statement of consent and release of liability and return to school by _________________________.
PARENT’S PERMISSION AND INDEMITY
I hereby request that my child,____________________________, be permitted to participate in the activity described above. I understand that this activity will take place away from the school grounds, that the school will arrange transportation, and that my child will be under the supervision of the designated person on the date specified. I release and agree to indemnify St. Clement School and its representatives from liability for any accident in which my child may be involved or any injury to my child which may occur in connection with this activity. I consent to the conditions for participation in this activity, including the method of transportation.
I recognize that I remain fully responsible for any legal liability resulting from personal action by my child.
Witness my signature this ____________ day of ______________________, ______________
Parent/Guardian___________________________________
GRADING
Interim reports are sent home the fifth week of the respective quarter (refer to the school calendar for the specific dates), informing parents of the quality of a student's work during that grading period. Report cards are given four times a year at the end of each quarter. Kindergarten students receive no interims, a checklist of skills in the 1st quarter, and receive report cards in the remaining quarters. The final report cards of all students are mailed.
Students in kindergarten will be graded on an S (satisfactory progress) and N (needs further help/experience) scale. Grades 1-3 will be graded on a scale of S (strong progress), N (needs time/experience/improvement), and U (unsatisfactory progress). Grades 4-8 will use the A-F scale for academics. A=100-93; B=92-85; C=84-77; D=76-70; F=69 or below. Students in grades 1-8 will also be graded on effort and personal development.
Teachers will be happy to confer with the parents outside class hours by appointment only. Parent-Teacher conferences are held as announced.
Students will bring the report card home for the first, second, and third quarters. The fourth quarter report will be mailed.
HOMEWORK
Homework is given as a help to the students. Assignments evolve out of class experiences. They are geared to the needs, interests, and abilities of the students. One of the values of homework is to help students acquire good study habits. Homework teaches self-discipline. The students must learn to budget time and to make an effort to meet a deadline.
Home assignments provide practice in needed skills. Students are able to do research, re-write and/or rework papers. Homework may not necessarily have to be written. Pupils, especially in the upper grades, should review notes taken in class. Working on projects, reading books, memorizing needed facts, or studying for a test can all be part of the home assignments. Homework gives the students a chance to prove to themselves that they can work independently.
The amount of time spent on homework will vary according to the grade level, the nature of the assignment, and the individual student. Every attempt is made to see that the amount of time spent is reasonable. Please consult with the teacher if you observe, over an extended period of time, that your child is spending an excessive amount of time on homework.
It is important for the student to develop good study habits. We recommend that each student have a suitable environment and specific time set aside for the completion of homework assignments.
Each teacher will determine his/her own policy for not completing or turning in homework and how it is averaged into the class grade.
JUNIOR HIGH HOMEWORK POLICY (Grades 6, 7, and 8)
HONOR ROLL
An honor roll is provided to recognize those students in grades 4-8 who have earned First, Second, and Spirit Honors for that quarter. Honors will be determined by the following criteria:
FIRST HONORS A Average 3.7
-No check marks or negative comments under "Personal Development"
-No negative comments under "Teacher Comments" section of the report card
-No 3 under effort
-No grades under a "C"
-No check marks
-No detentions (due to conduct)
SECOND HONORS B Average 3.0
-No check marks or negative comments under "Personal Development"
-No negative comments under "Teacher Comments" section of the report card
-No 3 under effort
-No grades under a "C"
-No check marks
-No detentions (due to conduct)
SPIRIT AWARD Student works to maximum ability
-No check marks
-No 3 under effort
-No negative comments under "Teacher Comments" section of the report card
-No detention for the quarter (due to conduct)
In averaging:
A=100-93 4 points
B=92-85 3 points
C=84-77 2 points
D=76-70 1 point
F=69 or below 0 point
LIBRARY
The school maintains a library to which all children have access. Provisions are made so that each class has a scheduled time to use the library. Students are expected to use the library in such a way that shows a sense of responsibility and consideration for others. Books and magazines are to be returned at the appointed time or a fine will be charged for each school day the item is overdue. Lost or damaged books or magazines must be paid for.
Students may participate in a Birthday Club. A book may be donated to the library on the child’s birthday, and a special recognition card will be placed inside the cover to recognize the gift.
PROMOTION, PLACEMENT, AND RETENTION
Promotion and retention of each student is treated on an individual basis, and each case is considered separately. Before a child is retained, his/her age, maturity, and total achievement are considered in the decision.
When a child's work makes retention likely, parents will receive adequate notice during the course of the school year. All possible interventions will be taken to help the student achieve. A pupil is only retained in the same grade when there is positive indication that he or she will benefit from retention. Because of the adjustment and other psychological difficulties, which arise for a student in the upper grades, the student may be recommended to repeat the grade in another school.
The promotion and retention of the student is based on the recommendations of the teacher(s) involved, parents, school psychologist, and the principal who has the final responsibility of assigning pupils to the proper grade.
Failure of a Subject-A student’s number grade average for the year is below a 70. Each quarter, grades will be recorded as both a number grade and a letter grade for the major subject areas.
Promotion-A student is listed for the next highest grade for the following school year.
Placed-A student has failed one or two major subjects and due to various circumstances would not benefit from retention and will be placed in the next grade level. Summer work will be required.
Conditional Promotion-A student has failed one or two major subject areas and promotion will depend upon successful summer work.
Retained-A student has failed two or more major subject areas and must repeat the entire year.
Major subject areas are Reading, English, Math, Social Studies, Science, and Religion.
Summer work can be either a formal program of instruction or tutoring taught by a certified teacher. Documentation will be required.
PLAYGROUND
Charity and concern for others should be obvious on the playground as well as elsewhere. All teachers on the playground deserve the same respect and obedience. Teachers from different grade levels may supervise the students' play and safety at recess.
Students must remain in their assigned areas. Students are not permitted to re-enter the school building except for an emergency. The students have recess at Park Place. No food, drink, or GUM is permitted on the playground during lunch recess.
Students in grades 1-3 have a morning recess. Students are permitted to have a snack for the A.M. recess. Nutritious snacks are encouraged.
RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCE
Parents are privileged to hold the chief responsibility for the spiritual development of their child(ren). The uniqueness of a Catholic school lies in the fact that it compliments the parents' role of instilling spiritual values. Christian values are a vital part of the total curriculum.
Each week during the school year, students are provided with the opportunity to share in Eucharistic Liturgy and/or Para-liturgy.
All students in grade 2 will receive instruction about the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Students in grades 7 & 8 will receive instruction about the sacrament of Confirmation. Students registered in St. Clement Parish and in the second grade or higher must attend the parish program for preparing to receive the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation for the first time. Students registered in St. Clement parish and in the eighth grade or higher must participate in the parish Confirmation program. Parent meetings are held at the beginning of each of these programs. Parent meetings are announced in the parish bulletin. (Students registered in other parishes should consult their parish concerning preparation to receive sacraments.) Contact the Director of Religious Formation at St. Clement Parish for questions or concerns.
SPECIALIZED SERVICES
St. Clement School receives Federal Funds that are used to provide for remedial reading teachers in the primary grades, books and supplies for our library, and cafeteria needs.
State monies are also available to St. Clement School and provide for auxiliary personnel such as a Reading specialist, Speech and Language pathologist, and a school psychologist. These funds are also used to obtain non-religious textbooks and many educational materials for our students.
A registered nurse is available to students at St. Clement one day a week and is provided by the St. Bernard Department of Health. (See p. 8)
TESTING
The Archdiocesan required testing programs, Terra Nova and In View, are administered to grades 2, 4, 6, and 8. The results of these tests become a part of the student's permanent record. A printout is provided for the parent showing the student's performance on the test.
English Composition is tested in the form of an Archdiocesan writing sample for students in grade 3, 5, and 7. This writing sample is usually completed in the spring.
SCHOOL RECORDS
Any parent who wishes to view their child’s cumulative record must give the school office twenty-four hours notice and must put their request in writing. School records are the property of the school. Transfer of school records is accomplished via inter-school transfer. No original records will be given to parents for transfer purposes. A parent must sign a release form for the school to release his/her child’s record. Records will not be forwarded if tuition is not current.
DISCIPLINE POLICY FOR ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL
COURTESY
Students are to consider it a matter of personal honor to show courtesy at all times to every member of the faculty, office, cafeteria, and maintenance personnel, and to all guests and visitors as well as to each other. Parents are encouraged and reminded to cultivate the virtues of kindness, thoughtfulness, politeness, and refinement in their children.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The goal of excellence is dependent upon the existence of an environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. This environment exists in all areas of the school building including church, playground, cafeteria, hallways and classrooms. St. Clement School has a primary purpose-the education of the whole person in a truly Christian atmosphere. In order to achieve this purpose, each student is expected to observe certain basic rules of conduct.
The principal in consultation with the teachers and Education Commission has devised a standard discipline code for the school. Though standard throughout the school, age-specific adaptations may be made by grade level. Each teacher will have a classroom code reflecting the standard policy. The teacher will inform both the students and the parents of the classroom code as well as the punishments given for the violation of that code.
It is our policy not to discuss disciplinary actions except with the parents or guardian of the student involved. If the parent or guardian fails to accept corrective action or discipline, his/her child may be asked to leave St. Clement School.
The following are the violations of the school rules of conduct and these apply to school premises and any school sponsored activity.
1 Point
-Tardy to class during the school day
-Uniform Violation
-Not prepared for class
-Running in hall/classroom
-Books not covered
-Not following classroom rules
2 Points
-Rowdiness/scuffles
-Not in appropriate place in school building during school hours
-Inappropriate language, behaviors, or gestures
-Gum/candy/food during school hours
-Disruption in any class - any disturbance, which interrupts the educational process, distracting the teacher or students
-Possession of any electronic device or toy (item will be confiscated and parent will pick-up at office)
5 Points-Automatic Detention for Violation
-Blatant disrespect to authority and peers
-Forgery (Plus call from teacher)
-Cheating (Plus call from teacher) Teachers may also deal with this academically
-Engaging in inappropriate displays of affection
20 Points-Automatic Suspension
-Serious fighting
-Tobacco use or possession
-Altering any school records
-Leaving school premises without permission during school hours
30 Points-Possible legal action may also be taken
-Deliberate vandalism
-Possession or use of drugs or alcohol (Counseling will also be required)
-Trespassing before or after school hours
-Assaulting a school employee, student, or other person
-Carrying weapons of any kind or items resembling weapons. These include but are not limited to mace, guns, knives, and pepper spray.
-Sale and/or distribution of illegal or prescription drugs
Stealing, harassment, or willful damage to school property (crayons on radiators, marking on desks or walls, etc.) will be handled on a case-by-case basis. The point total will range from 2-20 points.
Harassment may be defined as touching, blocking, verbal comments, spreading sexual rumors, jokes, cartoons, or pictures.
The principal and teachers have the discretion, on a case-by-case basis, to determine whether a violation has occurred.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
School administrators may inspect any student’s property at any time for any reason without prior notice. This property includes, but is not limited to, desks, computers, books, and coat racks. Additionally, any personal items are subject to inspection at anytime and for any reason, without prior notice, as a condition of bringing them onto or taking them from the school’s premises. Such items include, but are not limited to packages, lunch boxes or lunch bags, containers, backpacks, duffel bags, book bags, briefcases, purses, and pockets. An inspection does not imply wrong-doing by the student being inspected. A student and his or her parent or guardian’s consent to inspection of personal items is a condition of enrollment and attendance at the school. Refusal to consent may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, even for a first refusal.
DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
Grades K - 3
When students choose not to follow the rules and expectations of the school the following procedure
will be followed. The student will receive a demerit slip for the particular offense. Students are required to have the slip signed and dated by the parents and return it to school the next day. If it is not returned and signed, an additional demerit will be given and the parent notified. Parents have the option of providing the school with stamped, self-addressed envelopes for slips to be sent home.
The points will accumulate.
Grades 4 - 8
Teachers will ensure that their students adhere to the school rules. Inappropriate behavior will be dealt with in the following manner.
THIS SYSTEM WILL WORK ON A QUARTERLY BASIS. EACH QUARTER THE STUDENT WILL START OVER.
The following is the point system for disciplinary action.
5 Points--Detention Wednesday 7:00 – 8:00 A.M.
10 Points--2 Detentions served (Note may be sent to parents)
15 Points--3 Detentions served (Conference with parents)
20 Points --Suspension/Conference with principal, parents, and student
25 Points--Two day suspension. Meeting with pastor, principal, parents, and student. The student is now on probation.
After 25 points in one quarter, the student will be on probation. Any further disciplinary action will result in the Principal instituting the expulsion proceeding or the parent's option of withdrawing their child from St. Clement School.
30 Points--Expulsion (Principal's and Pastor's Discretion)
Suspension or expulsion of a student requires the action of the School Principal and the pastor. All responsible alternatives should be considered. The principal and pastor are the final recourse in all disciplinary matters.
SUSPENSION/EXPULSION DEFINITIONS
In-School Suspension
The student is kept in school but is assigned to a designated, supervised area outside of the departmental setting. Academic work is assigned, but no grade higher than a 70% will be given. Students may not participate in extracurricular activities during the suspension.
Out-of-School Suspension
The student is not permitted in school and may not participate in extracurricular activities. Students on out-of-school suspension will not be given the class assignments. The suspended student will receive a grade of zero for all classroom work and assignments issued during the suspension.
Expulsion
The student is permanently dismissed from St. Clement School.
Procedures To Be Followed in Cases of Expulsion
In cases where a student is expelled, these procedures must be followed:
A. The case will be reported to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools who will review the facts
to determine whether the facts justify expulsion.
the pastor of St. Clement.
C. A hearing must be held between the school representatives and the parents.
D. The pastor of the student's parish, if the student is not a member of St. Clement, shall be notified in writing of the expulsion by the principal.
E. A report detailing the reasons for expulsion must be sent to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools on each student expelled from St. Clement.
F. Parents who believe their child has been expelled from St. Clement for insufficient reason have the right to appeal, in writing, to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools within 5 days. The decision of the Superintendent to uphold the school ruling or to order the reinstatement of the student is final.
G. The withdrawal of the student must be reported to the Attendance Department of the local public school district in which the student resides.
ORGANIZATIONS AND EVENTS
ATHLETICS
St. Clement Cardinal Boosters offers athletics to both boys and girls who go to St. Clement School as well as members of St. Clement parish. It is very important to use careful judgment when determining your child's eligibility to participate. Your child's academic performance comes first. Parents are expected to keep this in mind and to be open to recommendations by the faculty. In addition, school events and sacramental preparation meetings take priority over scheduled sport practices.
To be eligible to participate in any athletic program, a child must either be a student of St. Clement School or a member of St. Clement Parish.
The teams sponsored by St. Clement School participate in the CYO (Catholic Youth Organization). The following is a list of sports offered:
Football Boys Grades 4-8
Cheerleading Girls Grades 5-8
Basketball Boys or Girls Grades 3-8
Volleyball Girls Grades 4-8
Boys Grades 5-8
Baseball Boys Grades 3-8
Softball Girls Grades 5-8
Track Boys or Girls Grades 5-8
The Cardinal Boosters is self-funded and receives no financial support from the school or parish. Money is raised through fund-raisers, concessions, gate receipts, and sport fees. The Association is also dependent upon the assistance of the parents of the athletes to volunteer their time and talents to support our efforts through coaching, working events, and becoming board members.
An Athletic Board governs the Cardinal Boosters. The board is composed of 10-15 individuals who determine and set policy. The Boosters meet monthly on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 P.M. in the school cafeteria. Anyone is welcome to attend.
BINGO
A Bingo is held every Wednesday night beginning at 6:30 P.M. in the school cafeteria. The funds from the bingo supplement the operating budget of the school. Bingo is very important as it helps to keep tuition rates down.
All grades have assigned months and are required to provide parent/guardian volunteers for those Wednesdays. A parent/guardian is required to work three nights for each child at St. Clement School. Sign-ups will be held at the Open House at the beginning of the school year. Room mothers will phone the workers as a reminder.
It is required that families sign up and work their respective nights. Parents are responsible for finding a replacement if they cannot come on their evening
EDUCATION COMMISSION
This is an advisory and consulting body for the administrators of educational programs at St. Clement School and Parish. The commission meets monthly on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 P.M. in the parish meeting room. Anyone is welcome to attend. Commission by-laws require that a written request must be given two weeks prior to a scheduled meeting to address the commission. Requests should be sent to the school office.
TPC
"TPC" refers to the Teacher and Parent Club. Our mission is:
"Parents and Teachers working together to improve the school community through
enrichment activities and fundraising".
St. Clement’s TPC is a group of dedicated parents who provide overall support to the school in a variety of ways. At the monthly meetings. The principal, a teacher representative, and the parents discuss ways to improve the school community.
We are pleased that our parents have been supportive of our commitments by providing room parents for all classrooms, weekly bingo workers, and volunteers in the computer room and in the cafeteria. These are just a few of the many services provided by the TPC.
Parental involvement is a KEY factor in the success of the TPC. EVERY parent is highly encouraged to become a member. There are no membership fees, just a willingness to dedicate some time and energy to making St. Clement School the best it can be.
Meetings are held on the FIRST TUESDAY of every month. Check the monthly calendar for time and location. Please join us.
ROOM MOTHERS/FATHERS
Each homeroom has a room mother or father who assists the classroom teachers for parties and supplies. They may also provide additional supervision during parties, field trips, field day, and other activities. Teachers communicate directly with the room parent when needs arise.
The Room mothers/fathers will have a class phone list and will contact other parents/guardians in his/her assigned grade for party needs or for materials such as might be needed for specific projects.
In the event of an emergency school closing, other than a snow closing, the principal or secretary will contact the Room mothers/fathers. Each will then phone the families on his/her list to notify of them of the closing. Room mothers/fathers will develop a phone chain so that this can be done quickly and efficiently.
St. Clement School Staff
Mrs. Cathy Stover, Principal 802
Mrs. Arlene Fay, Office Manager 801
Mrs. Sarah Girard, Pre-School 103
Sister Patti Zureick, K 105
Ms. Lauren Thiery, 1st grade 206
Mrs. Katie Holt, 2nd grade 204
Mrs. Mitzi Wiesenhahn, 3rd grade 202
Ms. Lisa Metz, 4th grade 201
Mrs. Jeanne McHugh, 5th grade 205
Mrs. Melissa Knight, 6th grade 303
Mr. Bill Wilson, 7th grade 306
Mrs. Shannon Carey, 8th grade 301
Mrs. Kathy Stephan, Art 153
Mrs. Tiffany Berting, Music 305
Mr. Larry Roy, PE 108
Mrs. Sandy Harris, Aide 100
Mrs. Joanie Mathews, Pre-School Aide 103
Mrs. Melinda Maier/Mrs. Paula Blessing, Computer 104
Dr. Natalee Braun, Psychologist 806
Mrs. Jenny Dutschke, Title I 203
Mrs. Carol Marsh, Speech/Language 805
Mrs. Kathy Groh, Cafeteria 804
Mr. Frank VonderMeulen, Maintenance 803