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Dear
Parents and Students,
Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year at St. James-St. John School.
Our hopes for this year are of educating in the spirit of Christ through the
expectations of excellence as a Catholic school governed by the pastors with the
help of the principal and overseen by our parents. I look forward to serving
you as I enter my 3rd year as principal at St James-St. John
School, and I am excited by the faculty and staff we have assembled.
This handbook for parents and students has been prepared to provide
information regarding the history, mission, policies, procedures, and practices
of St. James-St. John School. It is important that parents and students become
thoroughly familiar with the school and its activities, and this handbook can
assist you in that purpose. The faculty and administration review the policies
each year with an eye to the improvement of our product.
Please keep this handbook readily available for reference as it
answers numerous questions that many parents and students often have. Parents
and students are responsible for knowing about and understanding the
information provided in the handbook (See “Parent/Student Handbook
Acknowledgement Form” in the back of the handbook). This document will be
available on our website (www.sjsjschool.com) as all pertinent forms.
The St. James-St. John learning experience is a three-way
proposition. It involves students, parents, and teachers working together for
the good of the entire community. When that occurs, everyone gains the maximum
benefit and we are one step closer to fulfilling God’s purpose. Have a great
school year!
Warm Wishes,
Mrs. Cristina Raposo
Principal,
St James-St. John School
St. James St. John School's existence and purpose is to communicate the teaching of God's
message, to encourage daily prayer, and to develop the academic and spiritual
growth of each child. We strive to provide a school climate which is cognizant
of the needs of children to be successful.
We
set forth the challenge to develop in each child an awareness of God, and
identity of self worth, and the concern for the needs of others. We, as a family, strive to teach as Jesus did… with love
and compassion for one another. St. James- St. John School family strives to
live as a Christian Community. This involves the growth and development of
each person concerned: the faculty, the student, and his/her family.
The growth and development, while rooted in our duty to Jesus and
our Catholic Faith, is dedicated to enabling our students to become adept
scholars of Languages Arts, Mathematics, and Science. St. James-St. John School filled with God’s unconditional love, educates young persons to take
responsibility for their lives. St. James-St. John students learn to contribute
their creative skills and critical thinking to the lifelong process of personal
growth to develop a loving, caring community.
St. James-St. John School enrolls students from diverse ethnic and
socioeconomic backgrounds - a rich cultural mix to generate strong self-esteem,
broadening relational skills, a spirit of justice, and compassion for others in
need. The School nurtures these qualities in the students through a strong
network of
peers, teachers, administrators, parents, family, and community members.
St. James-St. John School encourages and stimulates students to become
persons strong of body, keen of mind, and pure of heart seeking to love and
serve God by loving and serving their neighbors
As a faculty, it is our spiritual mission to guide our students to
want to know and love God deeply. We want them to be witnesses to our faith by
willingly living by the Gospel. In this way, they will venture into society
armed with compassion, hope for the future, and respect for the unique dignity
of every individual.
Mission
The mission of St. James St. John School is to
provide a Christian educational environment which fosters a love for learning
and affords each child an opportunity to develop his/her full potential. Our
goal is to enable children to develop sound moral and spiritual values, to
incorporate an awareness of peace and justice issues, and to demonstrate
genuine concern for others in the light of Gospel values. Learning and
social experiences are structured in a manner that promotes mutual respect,
enhanced self-esteem, and individual responsibility.
When a student is absent from school, a parent or guardian is to call
the office (508) 996-0534 before 9:00 a.m. The answering machine is on through
the night. Staff reports at 7:30 AM. Excessive absences may result in
non-promotion and/or non-graduation.
Students and parents are advised that extended pleasure trips are not
recommended for a student’s academic progress and such trips should be avoided.
If you must remove your child during the school year for such reasons, they are
responsible for making-up any missed work and/or tests immediately upon their
return. Upon returning to school, the child is required to present a written
excuse, signed by a parent or guardian, stating the reason for the absence.
Please use the absentee form located in the appendix of this book.
For the safety and protection of your child this procedure must be
followed. An absence due to illness, death in the family, religious holiday,
and other conditions approved by the principal are excused; all other absences
are unexcused. A student who has been absent because of illness for five or
more consecutive days is required to present a doctor's permit stating the reason
for the student's absence. Failure to present a permit, will exclude your child
from school.
Children are expected to be in school on time. Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. are considered tardy. Students must enter the main entrance of the school and report to the office to
gain admittance to their respective classrooms. Promptness
helps to develop good work and organizational habits.
Students will
not be released from school during the school day without the written request
of a parent or guardian. Parents should try to avoid scheduling dental or
medical appointments for children during school hours. If a child is to leave
the building other than at normal dismissal times, the parent, guardian or a
responsible adult (indicated in writing by the parent or guardian) must call
for him/her at the Principal's office to sign the child out. The names of
those people who are allowed to pick up the child must be on the emergency
forms. Picture identification may be required upon the request of the
principal.
St. James St. John School is a smoke-free and drug-free community. The
Smoking Restrictions in School Act prohibits the use of any substance or
items which contain tobacco on school grounds. The following is the school’s
substance abuse and weapons policy for students:
V
Drugs consist of
anything considered illegal by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (alcohol and
tobacco are
included) and therefore, are not permitted at SJSJ. Any child in possession of
or under the influence of any drug will
have the drug confiscated and their parents and the police will be notified
immediately. Disciplinary action will be at
the discretion of the principal and proper legal authorities.
The following list of infractions will result in contact with the
parents and pastor with a possible suspension or expulsion.
V
Possession of tobacco
or alcohol
V
Smoking and other use
of tobacco products.
V
Sale of alcohol
V
“Under the Influence”
V
use of inhalants
V
sale, possession, use
of drugs
V
possession of a
weapon
V
assault on a staff
member
SEARCH
All desks are
the property of the school and as such can be searched at any time.
Our extra-curricular activities, exists to promote good
sportsmanship, teach fair play, and allow for student participation outside the
academic environment. Participation in such represents a position of
recognition and often bestows the position of role model upon the student
participants. For that reason, high standards of behavior are expected from
students participating in these activities. Students participating in
extra-curricular activities are expected to meet the following criteria:
-
Maintain at least a 70% average and be failing no more than two
subjects,
-
Must not receive more than two detentions in any one-week period.
-
Students on suspension may not participate or attend any school
sponsored events.
-
Students who do not meet the minimum criteria will not be allowed
to practice or play, but may attend games.
-
Students participating in athletics
must secure his/her physician’s permission and his/her parent’s approval.
The
policies and procedures contained in this handbook represent the best judgment
of the school staff at the time of publication. Circumstances can change over
the period of the school year. The Principal and pastor, therefore, have the
right to add, delete, or make amendments to this manual as needed to ensure the
safe and effective operation of the school. Changes to the manual will be done
in writing and forwarded to the parents through normal distribution. The
Administration (Principal or Pastor) reserves the right to make new policies
when necessary. Any situation not included in the handbook will be handled at
the discretion of the Principal.
School
entrance age shall be the same as that determined by the New Bedford public
school district. A child must be full potty trained by August 31 of that
school year for entrance into Pre-school. A child must be five by August 31st
of that school year to enter into the Kindergarten class.
Each
child in grades 3-8 can purchase an agenda to serve as a homework pad and
organizational tool. School Agendas must be with the student for all academic
classes. Should a student lose their agenda, a new one must be purchased from
the school ($5). Each student is required to write all their assignments in
their agenda. The parents should check to see if the assignments are complete
and initial on a daily basis. It is not the responsibility of the teachers to
monitor the agendas for every child.
In
accordance with diocesan policy, any student proven to have made an anonymous
threat to school safety shall be expelled without recourse or the possibility
of re-admittance to any catholic school in the diocese. Any instruction time
lost in school evacuation resulting from a threat to school safety shall be
made up.
To
promote a family setting here at St. James St. John School
V
Principal/Teacher
will supervise students as they eat their lunch.
V
Children will wait
for their class to be called to receive hot lunch.
V
For the safety of our
students, we will have a quiet lunch time.
V
Use appropriate
manners as you would in your home.
V
Clean your area.
V
At the end of lunch,
when called, line up quietly and wait for
directions.
Lunches can be ordered on a monthly basis. Beverages, and snacks
may be purchased in the cafeteria daily. Behavior in the cafeteria is to
reflect proper etiquette and Christian behavior. There is no running or loud
talking in the cafeteria. The children are expected to display good eating
habits and clean up after themselves. Unacceptable behavior will result in
disciplinary action. No food or beverage is to be taken outside at recess.
All "forgotten" lunches must be delivered to the office.
Parents may not bring lunch directly to students. Students are required
to bring their own lunch "accessories" - napkins, spoons, forks,
straws, etc.
A yearly calendar is distributed at the beginning of the school
year. A monthly calendar that identifies daily school events is sent home at
the beginning of each month. There are times when activities have been planned
after the calendar has gone home. In this instance the teachers will notify
parents of any changes.
Students are expected to use workbooks/textbooks and
school materials with care. Jesus expects you to be a good caretaker of all
the property that you own or are allowed to use. You show this respect by
treating all school property and personal property as if it were a gift loaned
by Jesus.
1. School hardcover books are to be covered and well cared for. Students may
NOT write in any textbooks. Negligence will result in a fine, which will be
used for the replacement of damaged books.
2. Students who lose their books will be charged for the lost text.
3. Students writing on walls or damaging property will be required to do
clean-up work and pay for the repairs.
4. Computers and other technology are to be used for the benefit of all
students. Damage to a computer or software through improper use or vandalism
will be subject to a fine for damage or replacement. Students are only
permitted to access their own saved work on the computers - accessing, copying,
tampering with or destroying another student's saved work is subject to
detention or other disciplinary actions, including suspension of computer
privileges.
Cheating or copying the work of another (plagiarism) is a serious offense. A 60
is to be given for any work in which a student has cheated or copied, or given
their work to be copied. Students are expected to do their own work unless
instructed to work co-operatively by their teacher.
Parents will be notified of cheating in a letter written by their
own child. That letter must be signed and returned to the Principal.
Appropriate disciplinary action will also be issued at the discretion of the
principal and teacher.
St. James St. John School has full internet access in most classrooms. All faculty
and students will be required to sign a computer use contract. Every parent
must read and review contents of the computer contract with their child.
The consequences for a poor choice made by a student depends upon
how serious the wrong is and how often it has been done. Repeated offenses will
always involve notifying the parents. The following are some consequences for
poor choices:
1. Taking privileges away from you.
2. Keeping you after school.
3. Excluding you from upcoming field trips.
4. Removing you from class or school for one or more days (In-school
suspension).
5. Expelling you permanently from St James-St. John School.
The
Diocese of Fall River requires all employees and volunteers to submit to
criminal offender record information (CORI) and attend a diocesan workshop on
abuse prevention. CORI forms are available in the school office.
Any
parents planning to have involvement within our school, including field trips
must submit to a CORI and attend this workshop. The workshop dates are
available in the school office. Volunteers must submit to a CORI check each
year.
Application
to St. James St. John School implies a willingness to adhere to school policies
and philosophy by all students and their parents.
Priority for admission
is given to families with siblings already enrolled at our school and parishioners.
Transfer
students must submit a letter of recommendation from their present teacher/principal
and a copy of their latest report card.
The
curriculum, designed to be challenging, is intended to help promote self-worth
through accomplishment. It requires cooperation among teachers, parents, and
students to reach its potential for individual students. St James-St. John
School is a grammar school; thus, the increasing challenges are intended for
success through high school into college/university study.
The
Preschool Program at St James-St. John School incorporates the areas of
language arts, math, art, music, science and discovery, social studies, self
help and gross motor skill development. The emphasis is on language, activity,
and movement with major emphasis on large muscle activity. Appropriate
activities make use of dramatic play, wheel toys and climbers, and puzzles and
blocks. Opportunities are provided for students to listen to simple stories and
verbalize their knowledge, opinions, and comprehension of lessons and
feelings. The focus of this program is primarily oral language development and
learning experiences that encourage involvement to enhance emotional and social
growth. Skills learned earlier are practiced and enhanced. Thematic-based units
offer the preparation for a variety of learning activities.
In Preschool
your child should have good bathroom habits and be able to take care of his/
her own lavatory needs. (i.e. wiping, re-dressing, etc…) In the event that your
child has an “accident” faculty and staff are not authorized to re-dress your
child. Your child may ask to use the lavatory at any time. Children will be
accompanied by the teacher/aide when using the lavatory. Please note that you
will ALWAYS be called in the event that your child has an accident with a bowel
movement. In the event that your child has an accident while at school, be sure
to return an extra set of clothes to the school the following day! Please
dress your child in elastic waist pants, which will facilitate their
independence in the lavatory. NO belts, suspenders, etc…please! Children may
ask for assistance with clothing. Please
make sure your child has a spare set of clothing in the classroom (i.e.: pants,
shirt, underwear, socks.)
The Kindergarten Program is for children five years old on or
before August 31. The classroom is organized into learning centers designed to
develop a love of learning. Time and space are organized to encourage active
exploration, self-directed play, and freedom of choice at various learning
centers, as well as to provide teacher-directed and structured group
activities. The curriculum provides instruction in math and reading readiness
skills. It also fulfills the need for different learning styles, multilevel
activities in a child-oriented
environment
where children are given the opportunity to grow in a variety of
ways. Please
note Kindergarten is required to wear
school uniform. Check handbook for dress code requirements.
RELIGION
St James-St. John School recognizes religious education as a
lifelong process. The school’s program involves ongoing spiritual experience
and formation, both individual and communal, for each stage of the student’s
development. We educate for the heart, mind, and soul. The religion program
includes doctrine, scripture, sacraments, and morality. Faith experiences
include liturgies at school and at our church. We follow the guidelines of the
Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students in Grades Preschool-8 attend Mass once
a month.
READING
The school’s reading program is multidimensional. It is a balanced
approach that makes use of many kinds of literature to promote reading,
writing, listening, and speaking. Phonics instruction is provided at
appropriate grade levels. Through reading motivational programs and activities,
students are encouraged to read for pleasure as well as for instructional
purposes. Parents are encouraged to read with their children at least 20
minutes each day.
ENGLISH
English instruction focuses on the study
of grammar, composition, oral language, listening skills, spelling, and
penmanship, and also includes the acquisition of information literacy skills.
It is an integrated program that uses whole language, phonics, and
literature-based instructional techniques and strategies. The reading program
focuses on traditional or respected literature supplemented with expected
independent reading. The middle school emphasis is on long and short fiction,
poetry, speeches, drama, and other assorted non-fiction approaches to
understanding.
MATHEMATICS
The math program is based on the development of concepts and
knowledge that helps the student reason and problem solve concrete problems
that are age-level appropriate. Emphasis in the early years is placed on an
understanding of the basic concepts of math and on understanding and knowing
specific mathematical fundamentals. At the proper grade level, students are
expected to have complete mastery of their times tables and other mathematical
processes that are applied to the problem solving processes. Students advance
their knowledge and application ability as they advance through the grades. In
the middle school, pre-algebra is taught with a heavy concentration on geometry
in 6th through 8th grades.
SCIENCE
Students are taught a balance of content and process skills in the
areas of earth, physical, and life science. The program provides experiences that
stimulate curiosity and imagination, develop thinking and logic skills, and
nurture an appreciation and concern for our environment. The school also
sponsors an annual science fair, participation in which may be voluntary or
mandatory, depending on the grade level.
SOCIAL
STUDIES
Social Studies provide students with the background necessary for
becoming knowledgeable, productive, and responsible citizens. Students are
given opportunities to practice thinking, problem solving, decision-making, and
social skills. The social studies curriculum in grades 5-8 elaborates on the
skills begun in the primary grades. The courses include world geography, ancient
civilization, Massachusetts history, and United States history. The middle
school history program will be heavily supported with lectures, notes, learning
centers, and numerous approaches to understanding the importance of historical
study.
COMPUTER
Computer
classes are based on the learning objectives specified by the Fall River Diocese
curriculum. Topics include terminology, history, development, and
applications. Students learn basic word processing and spreadsheet
applications. Computers are used for in-class assignments in the elementary and
middle school grade level.
PHYSICAL
EDUCATION
Within the personal abilities of each individual, students in the
P.E. program should:
1. attain maximum motor development, physical fitness, and well being;
2. attain desirable social growth; and
3. utilize acquired movement and motor skills in worthwhile leisure activities.
MUSIC
Students in Preschool- grade 3 will receive weekly instruction in
musical theory, styles, and appreciation; they also learn songs for Mass,
special school programs and personal enjoyment.
In addition we
also have a choir which meets after school for grades 4-8.
ART
Art develops awareness and sensitivity to
natural and human-made environments, increases imaginative expression through
the use of art materials, promotes an understanding and appreciation of self
and others, and furthers aesthetic growth through visual discrimination.
Detentions are
to be served anytime from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the classroom of the
teacher who assigned the detention. Depending on the offense, detention may be
longer in time. The detention will only occur after parental notification and
the return of a signed detention slip. Failure to return a detention slip on
the following day will result in an additional detention. The slip is only a
notification that the child will have a detention, and the parent signature is
to notify teachers and staff that parents are aware of the punishment.
Detentions are issued to students as a reminder that their behavior and/or
academic effort is unacceptable.
The term and process of
discipline are absolutely necessary in Catholic Education. As parents, you are
your child's primary authority figure. Respect is expected from your children
for yourselves as well as for all school authorities
Orderly
dismissals are necessary to insure the safety and well-being of all children.
For your child(ren)'s safety it is required that only parents or guardians may
pick up their own children, unless other arrangements have been previously
cleared with the principal. NO STUDENT IN ANY GRADE is permitted to be picked
up by another party without the written permission from the student's
parent/guardian. Notes regarding these alternative arrangements must be brought
to the office before the start of school on that day. If
arrangements change during the school day, please call the office.
Parents
are reminded to park their vehicles in a manner by which all necessary space is
used. We are at a disadvantage of having limited parking area; so please park
your cars appropriately.
At 2:30 p.m. Students are dismissed out the back doors of the school. All students will
proceed in line up to the front of their respective areas. Parents must exit
their parked vehicles and pick up their children and escort them back to their cars.
No child will be allowed to walk to their cars unattended.
Each student attending St
James-St. John School in grades K-8 will be attired in the complete and exact
uniform as described by the Principal in the Parent/Student Handbook. All staff
members are expected to enforce the uniform code. No deviations in the uniform
will be allowed, except in specific situations as approved by the Principal.
All
prescribed articles of clothing must be worn all day or the student will be
considered to be “out of uniform.” It is a parental responsibility to work with
the staff of St James-St. John School to ensure that the child is in the proper
uniform each day. The parent must notify the school, in writing, each time the
child is not in complete uniform. The reason for non-compliance and when
non-compliance will be corrected must be given in the notification. In the
absence of this notification, the parents will be informed of the uniform
violation immediately, giving them the opportunity to remedy the situation by
bringing the proper uniform item(s) to school.
Repeated non-compliance to the established uniform code will
result in disciplinary action. Whenever necessary, the appropriateness,
cleanliness, and neatness of student attire and accessories will be determined
at the sole discretion of the Principal.
The administration may call special dress days or make exceptions
to the following required uniforms, in which you will be notified in writing.
Pre-Kindergarten
-An optional
uniform is available for all students in PK
-Clothing should be neat, easy for preschoolers to wear, and allow for free
movement.
-Layering works well as it is sometimes very warm in our classroom.
-Preschoolers may wear sneakers.
-Please provide proper clothing for each season. During the winter months your
child must have
a warm coat, hat, mittens and boots in order to take part in
outside play.
There
are three (3) dress codes that are allowed at St. James St.John School. There
is a summer, winter, and regular code.
All students are allowed to wear the following items:
·
White or maroon polo shirt (short
sleeve)
·
Khaki dress shorts/skorts
·
Sneakers
·
White socks
·
Girls in
grades K - 5:
·
School Jumper
·
White buttoned down oxford
shirt
·
White or maroon socks
·
Brown or black shoes
Girls in grades
6 - 8:
·
School skirt
·
White buttoned down oxford shirt
·
School tie (Grade 6 & 7 plaid
Grade 8 Solid)
·
School Vest
·
White or maroon knee socks
·
Brown or black shoes
Boys:
·
White buttoned down oxford shirt
·
Khaki dress slacks
·
School vest/sweater
·
School tie
·
Belt
·
Brown or black shoes
Girls:
·
Khaki dress slacks
·
White oxford shirt or white/maroon
turtleneck
·
School vest/sweater
·
White or maroon socks
·
Brown or black shoes
Sneakers and School Gym
Uniform
·
For identification and safety
purposes, SJSJ T-shirt or sweatshirt is to be worn.
·
Sweatpants/sweat shorts: SJSJ
with logo gym uniform.
·
Sneakers are to be tied in the
traditional manner.
·
Long sweatpants are to be worn to
the ankle. When sweatpants have been outgrown, parents may cut them to the knee
and hem them.
Haircuts and hairstyles
must be traditional, simple, and combed.
- No
tails, spikes, carving, shaved heads, sculpting with gel, etc.
- Hair
may not be worn in front of eyes.
Any student whose hairstyle is deemed unacceptable and distracting from
the learning environment may be excluded from class and the student’s
parents will be notified. Three days will be given to rectify the problem.
If not corrected during this time frame, the student may be suspended
until natural hair color is restored.
For safety
reasons:
- No
heavy choker necklaces are allowed - i.e. spikes, chains, dog collars, etc.
·
Only one bracelet,
necklace, watch, ring, etc. may be worn.
·
No “jelly-jewelry.”
·
Expensive jewelry
should not be worn to school.
·
No "body
piercing," (lip, nose, eyebrow or tongue piercing), body art, permanent or
temporary tattoos. Students may not write or draw on skin.
· Cologne, perfume, hair products, etc. are to be used in
moderation, due to potential allergic reaction of others. These may not be
used in the classroom and for safety reasons may not be brought to school.
Boys: Must have traditional, combed haircuts.
No braiding, spiking, gel sculpting, carving, etc.
- Hair
must be trimmed around ears and may not extend below natural hairline
along sides of the head and at nape of neck.
- No
facial hair (beards, goatees, mustaches, etc}
- May
not wear an earring or earrings.
Girls: Hairstyles must be combed and neat, and
ribbons and barrettes should be simple.
- Small earrings
may be worn on pierced ears no larger than the size of a quarter.
- No large
dangling earrings.
- Hoop earrings
are to be no larger than a nickel.
- No more than
two earrings per ear with traditional placement on ear lobes only.
- No ear cuffs.
If upper ear is pierced, one small stud may be worn per ear.
- Clear or light
pink color nail polish
only. No black or fluorescent colors, no multi-colors, no false nails, no
nail art or nail jewelry.
- Makeup,
glitter, or false eyelashes may NOT be worn.
SHOES
ALL STUDENTS
- Brown,
black, or traditional black and white saddle shoes.
- Shoes
must be traditional low heel less than 1” in height, low cut (below
ankle).
GIRLS MAY ALSO
WEAR:
- Black
or brown leather strap shoe with safety non-skid soles, for example:
"Mary Janes" or T-straps.
- Girls’
shoes must follow all other requirements below.
PLEASE NOTE:
NO OTHER FOOTWEAR WILL BE PERMISSIBLE
- Shoes
are to be properly tied at all times.
- Shoes
and sneakers may not have platforms or built up heels.
- Traction
or rugged soles are permissible as long as the soles are not built up.
- Sneakers
may be worn only for PE or Summer Uniform.
- Boots
may not be worn in the classroom.
- During
cold or inclement weather, boots may be worn to school and changed before
entering the classroom.
Please review
these examples of acceptable uniform shoe styles and height of heel (less than
1”). Heel and sole may not be built up, chunky or platform due to safety and
insurance concerns.
No heelies.
It is
expected that uniforms will fit the students properly. Uniform pants that are
"baggy" or have the waist of the pants worn down at the hips will not
be tolerated. Students will also wear a plain black or brown belt in a size
appropriate to their waist. Boys' uniform shirts must be neatly tucked in with
belt showing at all times. Other departures from policy that will not be
tolerated are: temporary or permanent body tattoos, drawing on the skin with
ballpoint pens or markers, stick-on body jewelry, body glitter, etc. Girls will
wear their skirts in a modest fashion; never more than two inches above the
knee while standing.
Expulsion,
the permanent termination of a student's enrollment, is a most serious matter,
and should be invoked only as a last resort. A student may be removed from
class and expelled if he or she is involved in a serious offense or has
established a pattern of unacceptable behavior. Students on academic or
behavioral probation may be asked to leave if the issues which prompted
probation are not addressed. Expulsion is determined by the Principal, after
consultation with the Superintendent and the Pastor. Prior to expulsion, the
student and his/her parents or guardian must be granted a hearing by the
Principal. If expulsion is determined, the Principal shall notify the parents
or guardian of the reasons in writing, and shall file a copy of this notification
with the Superintendent. In judging the justification for expulsion, the
Superintendent will consider the extent of the school's previous efforts to
remedy the problem and will look for, but is not limited to, such reasons as:
·
Selling harmful drugs
·
Chronic refusal to
obey reasonable rules
·
Inability to profit
from instruction
·
Chronic, willful
absence or tardiness
·
Contagious disease
·
Immoral conduct
·
Behavior disruptive
of other pupil's schooling
Suspension
is invoked for serious infractions of school policy and shall be within the
jurisdiction of the Principal. Parents are notified and will meet with the
Principal. Suspension will be held in school in a supervised area with dismissal
at a time to be arranged with the parent. A student may be suspended for
persistent failure to correct behavior patterns or for serious actions
involving physical harm to others, harassment, or disrespectful behavior.
Suspensions may last 1, 2, or 3 days at the Principal’s discretion.
A suspended
student will not be allowed to return to school until a parent-Principal
conference is held. A student may not participate in extracurricular
activities, directly or indirectly, while on suspension.
The
extended daycare program will encourage your child to converse with their
friends, explore their talents, exercise motor skills, and offer the
opportunity to begin daily homework. This program is being offered as a
necessary service to the parents of St James-St. John School.
Extended Daycare charges begin at 2:30 sharp! The current charge for Extended Care is $4.00 per hour per child. The program
is offered in the morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and in the afternoon from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please remember that anyone not picked up by 5:30 PM will be charged $5 per student for the first ten minutes and then $5.00 for every
additional five minutes that you are late. Invoices will be sent home with
students on a monthly basis. Payment is to be returned in a timely manner. The
administration of St. James-St. John School reserves the right to deny Extended
Care services to anyone carrying an outstanding Extended Care balance. All students will be sent to Extended Care at 2:30 PM if not picked up. NO STUDENTS ARE TO BE IN THE HALLS, ENTRANCES, AND SCHOOL YARD UNATTENDED.
YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY IS IMPORTANT TO US! Extended Care charges begin promptly
at 2:30 PM. Extended Care will NOT be available on NO SCHOOL days and on other
days noted in the monthly calendar.
Well-planned and
supervised field trips are encouraged and may be scheduled during the school
year. Prior to a trip, each student will be given a diocesan field trip
permission slip in addition to school field trip information which is to be
filled out and returned by the parent/guardian. The form will include a
description of the purpose and destination of the trip. In order to
participate, all chaperones must complete a CORI check and have attended the
required diocesan workshop. Permission given over the telephone will NOT be
accepted. No student will be allowed on a school outing if the diocesan
permission slip is not completed. Field trips are privileges and student
participation may be disallowed if the student does not meet academic and
behavioral standards. The school will assess a charge for the field trips.
Parents are encouraged to allow their student to participate in field trips,
since these are planned to enhance the educational experience and learning
gained in the classroom.
Tuition
is determined each year by the Pastor and assists with the per pupil cost of
maintaining the school. Tuition is payable to the school in one of two ways:
(1) payment in full made directly to school by August 1st, or (2) monthly
payments through FACTS Tuition Management over a period of 10 months starting
in August. You may choose automatic payments from either a checking or
statement savings account. There is a $38 annual fee payable to
FACTS Tuition Management for the use of the monthly payment option. All tuition
payments are non-refundable.
There is a $30 charge for returned checks. Cash, bank check or
money order payment is immediately required for all returned checks and must be
remitted to the office upon notification. Returned checks CANNOT be
re-deposited. Personal checks will NOT be accepted from families after the
second returned check.
All payments made to school must be made by check for receipt and
security purposes. Checks are to be made out to St. James-St. John School, and must be remitted in a sealed envelope with family name, grade, amount enclosed
and purpose of payment. Checks for amounts over $1,000 must be made by money
order or bank check.
Financial
aid is available through the generosity of the Diocese of Fall River to
families who apply and show financial need to the St. Mary’s Fund. This
financial aid will be credited to a family’s tuition account only when all
outstanding financial obligations from the previous year are met.
To
ensure that our students are properly instructed as to the procedures to use in
case of a fire, we will have periodic fire drills in preparation. Besides the
school drills, the New Bedford Fire Department pulls the drills four time a
year. During a fire drill, children are to exit in a quiet, orderly fashion.
To insure your child's safety, running and talking are not allowed per order of
the fire department. In the classroom, children are to follow their teacher
through their assigned exit and line up outside the building in the assigned
area. If the children are in the cafeteria during a fire drill, they are to
exit through the nearest door and line up outside the building. In the event
of an emergency evacuation, all faculty and students will exit the school
building in a quiet orderly fashion
and will report to St. John’s Church. Should the evacuation cause extended
retention of students at the church, no student will be released from the
church until: - the regular dismissal time for that school day, or - the
principal has announced an early dismissal and parents have been contacted, or
- the parent/guardian of the student comes to the church to sign the student
out.
There is only one fund
raiser for the school year. Each
family will be assessed a
$300.00 fee, which is included in your tuition amount. This money can be raised
through the Annual Walk-a-ton, which is held on the Friday of Columbus Day
weekend. Through sponsorships, a family may raise enough support to achieve the
required amount. If your family should raise the $300.00, this money will be
credited to your account.
All students are assessed a
book fee of $100.00.
In accordance with Massachusetts Department of Public
Health regulations, the following is required of school children:
- Immunizations,
lead levels, and physical: all students entering PreKindergarten or Kindergarten.
- Vision
and hearing: all children in grades K through 8; referrals when
necessary.
- Scoliosis
testing: all children in grades 5 – 8, unless excused by family
physician. We must receive a written report from the doctor that the
screening has been completed.
- Tetanus
- Grade 7
School accident insurance forms are given to all families at the
beginning of the year. Parents are asked to sign the form and return it to
school even if school insurance is not needed. If a student is injured, it
should be reported to the Principal as soon as possible so that the insurance
process may begin. It is highly recommended that the minimal school insurance
be obtained for a child whether or not already covered by family insurance.
In early fall, various high schools arrange for classroom
presentations relating to their programs. Students and parents should discuss
the opportunities available to them. Students planning to attend a Catholic
high school should take the placement exam in December. Visits to high schools
should be arranged through the parents.
Homework is a valuable part of the learning process. Done
correctly, it assists the student in his/her preparation for opportunities to
demonstrate proficiency and to identify areas where more concentrated effort is
needed. Homework may be assigned as reinforcement for material already
introduced in
the classroom,
as completion of work started in the classroom, to enhance research and/or
thinking skills, or to allow a student to express creativity in the subject
matter assigned.
Homework must be done on time in order for it to be of the greatest
value. Parents are encouraged to assist students to become responsible for
their own homework by providing sufficient study time and space to enhance
concentration on the work at hand.
Homework is due at the beginning of the class unless the teacher specifies
that it will be completed in class. Generally, students who do not do homework
do poorly on testing assessments. Teachers are not required to accept, grade,
or credit late homework. No past due work will be accepted after the close-out
of any grading period (including progress reports). Students who are in excused
absence status may make up missed homework. In all cases, students will be
allowed a minimum of two days for each day missed to turn in late work due to
an excused absence.
In order to develop organizational skills, each child must write
the homework in their school agenda on a daily basis, and parents must sign
their agenda as an acknowledgement of checking the assignments. The
recommended times for homework is as follows:
Grades 1 and 2 10 - 20 minutes
Grades 3 and 4 15 - 45 minutes
Grades 5 and 6 45 - 60 minutes
Grades 7 and 8 60 - 90 minutes
In Kindergarten and Preschool, assigned homework is optional, but
highly encouraged.
EXTRA HELP FOR STUDENTS - Extra help is available to all students who desire
it, provided the student has applied him/her self in class and has shown
effort. Every teacher is available after school, Monday through Thursday, until
3:00 p.m.
At the end of a
trimester, an honor roll will be issued based on the following guidelines for
Grades 1- 8:
All
A’s Principal’s List
More
A’s than B’s High Honors
More
B’s than A’s Honors
Mostly
B’s one C Honorable Mention
The
above criteria must be met in the major subject of Religion, Language Arts,
Math, Social Studies, and Science.
Everyday
a hot lunch is available for your child, if you wish to order. An order form is
sent home with all students each month. If you are interested in ordering,
these forms are to be returned to the school office with the required payment
for that particular month.
Milk
is available to all students. The cost for each student is $50.00 for September
through January and $50.00 for the reminder of the school year.
The Diocese of Fall River requires that a course in Human
Sexuality be implemented throughout all grades as part of the religion
curriculum. SJSJ teaches human sexuality via approved texts and audio-visual
aids. Communicable diseases such as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
are also topics taught within this curriculum. Classes on pro-life issues will
also be given in grades 7 & 8. Several of the lessons taught throughout
this program are as follows:
RESPECT YOUR CLERGY, RELIGIOUS, TEACHERS, and STAFF
You will show
respect for Clergy, Religious, Teachers, and staff by:
a)
The tone and manner
in which you speak to them.
b)
The manner and way
you speak about them to your friends.
c)
The care and work
that you put into the assignments given to you.
d)
The faithful way in
which you keep the classroom rules that are given to you.
e)
Addressing them by
their proper title at all times.
RESPECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FELLOW STUDENTS
Some ways you
show this respect are:
a)
Giving others your
attention when it is their turn to speak. In class, or at an assembly, any
student who cannot give that attention will be removed.
b)
.Honoring other’s
property by not borrowing or taking without permission, destroying or defacing
it.
c)
Respecting your own
and others' work and efforts by not copying assignments, class work or test
materials.
d)
Talking to or about
others in a Christian way. Any student using unkind words or improper language
must apologize.
e)
Helping others when
they are having trouble instead of making fun of them.
f)
Respecting your body
and other students’ bodies by treating them gently and in no way hurting them.
Your hands and feet are to be kept to yourself.
g)
Walking in silence
when on the stairs or in the hall and leaving the building in a single file
following the posted directions.
h)
Knowing and obeying
the rules for bus safety and behavior. Bus drivers and Monitors are to be
obeyed. Infractions may result in losing the privilege of riding the bus.
i)
Respecting and
obeying safety patrols. Students MUST USE CROSSWALKS at all times. NO student
may cross the street without the permission of the teacher.
Serious or
repeated offenses will result in disciplinary action and/or the notification of
parents. A conference may also be required.
a)
Rough play, hitting,
or fighting will result in disciplinary action.
b)
Bringing anything to
school that could bring harm, such as guns, knives (including Jack knives
/Swiss Army knives) or matches may result in immediate expulsion and notification
of police and parents.
c)
Smoking materials,
drugs, and alcohol are forbidden and may result in expulsion.
USING YOUR
TALENT
Christ gave each of us different kinds and different amounts of talents. Some
ways you can show Jesus and others that you are doing your best are:
a)
Listening carefully
when someone is speaking.
b)
Writing down your
assignments in your agenda and taking notices and letters home.
c)
Making sure you have
all the books, SJSJ agenda and materials you need for your next class and for
your homework assignments.
d)
Doing your
assignments carefully and neatly, to the best of your ability.
e)
Handing in your
assignments on time and making up assignments promptly when you are absent.
f)
Asking your teacher
(or another student when allowed) in a polite way to help you when you do not
understand.
g)
Giving time, effort
and care in trying to do all work before saying, "I can't do it."
h)
Sharing with your
class any special skills or talents you may have, such as: music, art, etc.
i)
Getting yourself to
school on time and remaining there until the end of the school day.
Once you are
dismissed at the end of the day you may not return into the building. A note is
needed from the parent if there is a change from normal transportation.
THINGS THAT
HURT US ALL
Jesus taught us that certain things we do are especially displeasing to Him.
These are usually things that in some way hurt us and our brothers and sisters
around us. Jesus showed us through His life and teachings that He disliked the following
things:
a) Attacking or hurting someone, even if you
feel that person hurt you. (If someone hurts you, go to the teacher for help.)
b) Hurting someone seriously and on purpose.
(We believe that this is so wrong, we will remove a student from class for one
or more days, the very first time it happens. If it happens more than once, a
student may be dismissed from SJSJ School.)
c)
Fighting beyond the
point of self-defense. Although you have the right to protect yourself if
attacked, if you continue, you are considered as wrong as the person who
started the fight. Instead report to the person in charge, in order to break up
the fight.
A nurse will check hearing, eyesight, weight, etc. and perform
dental screenings in accordance with state law. If a student is ill and sent
to the nurse/principal and it is deemed necessary to send the student home, a
phone call by the nurse, principal or secretary to the parent will be made. The
parent/guardian /caretaker is to report to the office to sign the child out and
is responsible for taking the student home. Students with medical conditions
requiring specific monitoring must call parents with daily test results.
In order to be excused from P.E. over an extended period, a student
must have the written permission of a doctor. In order to be excused from P.E.
on a single occasion, a parental note stating a specific reason for the
exclusion must be provided.
(in accordance
with policy issued by Board of Registration in Nursing)
- Students
requiring any medication, including cough drops, during school hours must
provide the health office with medication.
- For
administration of any over the counter medication, written parental
consent must be obtained for each student and kept along
with medication order sheet, completed and signed by a physician.
- Student's
health record, including current medications and any known
allergies, must be on file in the health office prior to administration of
any medication.
- A
record documenting name of student, date, time, dose and reason for
administration of medication will be kept on file in the office.
- If
written consent is not on file for a student, the parent must come to
school to administer the medication.
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students requiring
prescription medication during school hours will be able to attend school, to
provide minimum standards for safe and proper administration and storage of
such medication, and to assure proper documentation of administration of
prescription medication.
- ALL
MEDICATIONS, PRESCRIPTION AS WELL AS OVER-THE-COUNTER CANNOT BE
ADMINISTERED BY THE SCHOOL NURSE WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE FORMS SIGNED BY
BOTH PARENT/GUARDIAN AND PHYSICIAN.
- ALL MEDICATIONS
MUST BE PROVIDED BY THE PARENT/GUARDIAN AND IT IS ABSOLUTELY IMPERATIVE
THAT ALL MEDICATIONS BE BROUGHT TO THE OFFICE BY THE PARENT.
- MEDICATIONS
ARE NOT TO BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL BY THE STUDENT. IF THE SCHOOL NURSE IS
NOT AVAILABLE, EITHER A PARENT OR FAMILY MEMBER, WHO IS DESIGNATED IN WRITING,
MUST COME TO SCHOOL TO ADMINISTER MEDICATIONS.
- For
any prescription medication, i.e., inhalers, pain medications or
emergency medication:
1.
The pharmacy -labeled
container must be brought to the office by the parent for verification and
recording prior to taking such medication.
2.
There is written
authorization from the student's parent/guardian that the student may self-medicate,
and information is provided as to the nature of the illness.
3.
The student will
report to the office to take the necessary medication at the prescribed time.
4.
The student will not
be permitted to keep the medication in his/her possession.
5.
A record will be kept
in the office with the student's name, nature of illness, medication name,
dose, frequency, and time to be taken. This record will include verification
that the medication has been self-administered at the prescribed time. Also,
the parent/guardian will be notified of any failure to take, or any side -
effects of the medication.
6.
Whenever possible, a
back-up supply of the medication will be kept in the office, and will be stored
properly.
7.
Physician’s Orders
must be submitted with parental permission form.
On
no uniform days, the students are expected to be dressed neatly and
appropriately. Short skirts, torn jeans, short shorts, tank tops, and shirts
with unacceptable pictures or vulgar writing are not acceptable. Socks and
appropriate footwear (no flip flops) must be worn. Blouses must cover the mid
section of the torso.
Notices/WEDNESDAY ENVELOPE
Weekly
communications and general information from the office will be sent home in the
Take Home Wednesday Envelope. Please read, sign and return all applicable
sheets the next morning. Parents are requested to return any envelopes
containing money (lunch money, milk money, treat money, tuition, fundraising
money, etc) in their child’s Take Home Wednesday Envelope. Please be sure to
place any money sent to school in an envelope and label it appropriately as
noted in the student handbook. If you are paying by check, please write
separate checks for each item. Please make a habit of checking with your
children and looking in the backpacks, so that you will be informed properly of
current activities and happenings. Important information is also listed in your
child's assignment book in grades 2 through 8. Please be sure to check
these books on a regular basis.
"The non-public schools
of the Diocese of Fall River admit students of any race, color, national, and
ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally
accorded or made available to students at the schools. They do not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in
administration of their educational policies, scholarship and loan
programs, and athletic and all other school-administered programs.
A
successful learning environment requires a three-way division of
responsibilities among the student, teacher, and parent/guardian. When
circumstances occur, whether academic or behavioral in nature, in which it is
necessary for a parent to discuss a student’s progress with the teacher(s), the
parents and teacher(s) should first determine whether or not the student should
be present for all or part of the conference. The administration is available
for these conferences at the request of either party.
All parties to a conference should feel free to halt the
proceedings if common courtesy and professional respect are not being
demonstrated, or the conference is being directed in a personal vein against
any party instead of looking for resolutions to the student's situation.
Parents and teachers are cautioned not to engage in spontaneous,
unscheduled conferences since mistaken impressions may be conveyed due to a
lack of detailed information or haste on the part of either party.
NOTE: With
departmental grades (grades with numerous teachers), it is recommended that all
the student’s teachers be involved in any summative conferences to give a more
complete overview of the student’s performance.
Parents are encouraged to contact the teacher if a problem
arises. Conferences may be scheduled before school or after 2:30. Please allow the teacher sufficient time to resolve the situation. If you are not
satisfied with the decision, at that point you should contact the principal.
If the issue has not been resolved, the next step would be to contact the
pastor.
Anyone
visiting the school (including parents) MUST report to the office and state the
purpose of the visit. Visitors and parents may not proceed beyond the office
without prior permission from the Secretary or Principal. There will be a
sign-in book at the office for all entering the building. This is for the
safety and protection of all students. All items brought for students must be
delivered to the principal or secretary. Parents are not permitted to proceed
directly to the classrooms at any time. Parents are encouraged and welcome to
visit in the classroom. For safety purposes, all visitors are required to sign
in at the office and must wear the visitor’s pass while on school grounds. If a
conference is needed, parents are asked to schedule in advance since teachers
may not visit with adults if students are in the classroom. School-age children
not enrolled in school are not normally permitted to visit classrooms.
Exceptions must be cleared with the Principal.
Class parties
may be held each year in grades preschool through grade 8. Birthday parties
are not allowed during class time. However, parents are encouraged to honor
their children during the lunch hour with cupcakes or cakes. Balloons,
flowers, and all other types of student gifts disrupt the class environment and
are not allowed in classrooms during the school day. In order to avoid hurt
feelings, party invitations may be sent to school and distributed to your
child’s classmates only if every child is invited. Parents are reminded that
by law, they are responsible for any minor attending a party at their home.
Teachers are not allowed to chaperone non-school sponsored student parties.
If a
student is performing unsuccessfully at his/her present grade level it may
prove beneficial for him/her to repeat the grade. Retention provides some
students with the time to grow socially and intellectually, enabling them to
succeed in following grades. Parents of students having academic difficulty
should arrange for a parent / teacher conference at mid-year. Parents
of students in danger of retention will be officially notified and a parent /
teacher conference will be required at that time. An average 69 or below in
any subject will result in summer school attendance. If the summer session is
not successfully completed, retention will be required. An average of 69 or
below in two or more subjects will result in retention.
There are no
social promotions at St. James-St. John School. Students are promoted to the
next grade level based on their academic achievement and teacher
recommendation.
Grades 1-4: A student must have at least a “70” in religion, language arts
(including a “70” in reading), and math, and an overall “70” average.
Grades 5-8: A student must have at least a “66” in all core subjects (religion,
language arts [includes English and reading], math, science, and social
studies). The student may not fail more than two of these subjects. For each
core subject below “66”, a student must make up the class in Summer School.
Notes:
In Grades 1-5 a student who does poorly in reading and/or math may
not be promoted to the next grade based on the final evaluation of the Principal.
In Grades 6-8, if a student does not maintain a yearly average of “66” or above
in all core subjects, then he/she will be required to successfully complete
Summer School in the failed courses prior to being granted promotion to the
next grade. Failure of more than two core subjects in 6th-8th grades is grounds
for retention. Eighth grade students who fail one or two subjects their eighth
grade year will be permitted to participate in the graduation proceedings of
his/her class but will not receive a diploma until the deficiencies are
remedied through Summer School. Failure of more than two subjects in the eighth
grade year forfeits the student’s presence at the graduation proceedings.
Failure of any subject during the last semester may cause failure for the
entire year.
The staff at St. James-St. John School is comprised of qualified and Diocesan approved lay teachers,
religious and a trained and qualified support staff. A variety of additional
programs are offered to our students throughout the year by qualified
instructors from the local community under the supervision of the principal.
Title I, a federally funded program offering remedial reading, provides
services to eligible students in Gr. K - 4. A registered nurse is expected to
be available to meet the standards required under State Law. The nurse would be
hired by the school with funding coming directly from the school budget or,
when available, through Public Health Grants and is available on a very limited
basis. Any health concerns should be discussed with your doctor.
The Principal of the school is available by appointment during the
school day from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Teachers are available after 3 p.m. or before 8 a.m.
Throughout
the school year we photograph special events, project, classes, and plays to be
used for publication in newspapers, brochures, etc.. Sometimes names may be
required. Parents must sign and return a Photo release stating whether their
child’s photo and name may or may not be used.
Personal
items brought to school for educational purposes should be by request of a
teacher. Students are not to bring or to use on school premises radios, tape
players or recorders, cards, cameras, CD, DVD, MP3 players, CDs/DVDs, pagers,
cigarette lighters, matches, phones, laser pointers, video games, skate boards,
inline skates, Heelies, or other items determined by school officials to be
nuisances. Any items displaying immoral or unchristian words, characters, or
logos will not be allowed on school property or at any activity sponsored by SJSJ.
Any of these items must be picked up by the parent. Cell phones must be kept
off and kept in student’s backpack, for students in middle school and may be
used by teacher permission after school. Other children should not have a cell
phone unless approved by the principal. These devices will be kept in student’s
backpack at all times during the school day.
The administration reserves the right to determine what words,
characters and logos are inappropriate for young people in our Catholic
Christian environment. Any student not in full compliance with this policy may
be excluded from class until the parent of that student has come to school to
pick up the item in question. Parents are reminded not to allow their child to
test the rules. Your cooperation with school rules will assist your child to
have respect for himself, you, and school personnel!
Report
Cards are issued to students in Pre-school through Grade 8. These reports are
sent home in November, March, and June. The purpose of a report card is to
guide the student’s progress. The lowest passing grade in any academic subject
is a 66. All work with a grade of 66 or below is required to be signed by a
parent or guardian and returned the next school day. A student whose yearly
average is 66 or below may be considered for non-promotion. We encourage
communication between parents and teachers. For this reason, we require one
parent-teacher conference which will be held in the fall/early winter. After
careful inspection of the progress report or report card it should be signed
and returned promptly. The parent's signature means only the progress report
or report card has been seen, not necessarily that the parent approves of it.
If necessary further parent/teacher conferences can be arranged by the parent
by calling the school office and scheduling a mutually convenient date and
time. Progress reports are sent home in the first trimester to all students in
grades Pre-school through 8. During the second and third trimester only the
students who are in academic danger will receive a progress report. These
reports should be carefully reviewed by parents, signed and returned to school
the following day. Progress reports provide a mid-point indication of the
student's academic status. The report cards and progress reports will be sent
home. All tuition and fees must be current in order to receive a report card. If
tuition has not been paid in full, the student may be denied the opportunity to
take a final exam in a course and therefore may risk not being promoted or
graduate. Parents are requested to sign and return these promptly. If a
question or problem arises, the parent is strongly advised to contact the
teacher or Principal immediately through the school office.
- Ensure
their child’s compliance with school attendance requirements and promptly
report and explain absences and tardiness to the school.
- Assist
their child in being properly dressed in her/his uniform.
- Take
an active interest in the overall school program.
- Communicate
regularly with the school concerning their child’s conduct and progress.
- Discuss
report cards and assignments with their child.
- Bring
to the attention of the school any problem or condition which affects
their child.
- Maintain
current home, work, and emergency telephone numbers at the school.
- Cooperate
with the administration, teachers, and staff in their efforts to achieve and
maintain a quality school.
- Maintain
an atmosphere conducive to good behavior.
- Be in
regular attendance and on time; be prepared to perform their duties with
appropriate working materials.
- Exhibit
an attitude of respect toward individuals and property; conduct themselves
in a responsible manner at all times.
- Plan a
flexible curriculum to meet the needs of all students.
- Promote
effective training and discipline based upon fair and impartial treatment of
all students.
- Encourage
parents/guardians to keep in regular communication with the school.
- Encourage
parental participation in school affairs.
- Model
task organization and management skills to ensure classroom time-on-task.
- Serve
as appropriate Christian role models.
- Develop
a cooperative working relationship among staff, students, and parents.
St
James-St. John School follows the decision of the New Bedford Public School
System. If the weather is inclement, please listen to local radio and
television stations (WFHN, WBSM, WMYS, or WNBH or WPRI Channel 12 TV) for "NO
SCHOOL" announcements. Please do not call the school, Principal or
teachers. We learn of school cancellations the same way you do; by a radio announcement.
Our
school day begins at 8:10 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. Schoolyard supervision begins at 8:00 a.m. Students should not be in the schoolyard before 8:00 a.m. The school assumes no responsibility for your child before school hours. If you
have to bring your child earlier than the starting time, we do have extended
care services available for them. On days of inclement weather, doors will be
opened in the back of the school at 7:55 a.m. No vehicles are allowed in the
schoolyard from 7:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Dismissal on regular school days is at 2:30 p.m. Any child not picked up by 2:40
p.m. will be sent to extended care. The fee for this extended care is $4.00 per
hour.
Dismissal on professional half days is at 11:00 a.m. Any child not picked up by
11:10 a.m. will be sent to extended care, if extended daycare is available.
Same fee applies.
Textbooks,
workbooks, desks, and furniture represent a substantial investment for the
school and must be treated with respect. All hard-covered textbooks must be
covered at all times. DO NOT PUT THE TAPE ON THE BOOKS THEMSELVES. Students and
parents are advised that NO ADHESIVE BOOK COVERS ARE ALLOWED. Books damaged by
the use of adhesive covers will be charged to the parents. Damage to any
school property will merit a meeting with parents, teacher, principal, and
pastor and further action will be taken. Administrators, teachers, and other
professional personnel may question a student regarding the student’s own
conduct or the conduct of other students. In the context of school discipline,
students have no claim to the right not to incriminate themselves. School
officials may search a student’s outer clothing, pockets, or property. Desks and
other furniture are the property of St. James-St. John School and are subject
to inspection and search.
The IOWA testing is administered to Grades 2-8 and the Cognitive Abilities Test to Grades 3, 5,
and 7. The results of these tests will help us analyze each child’s
performance and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. In this way, we
will be able to improve the quality of the programs being offered. These
scores are sent home to the parents and are also included in the student’s
permanent cumulative record.
When
dropping off your child, please enter on the side of the school with the
cobblestone driveway. Proceed down the driveway to the orange cones. Have your
child exit the car and continue to proceed down the cobblestone driveway to County Street. It is important to keep the flow of traffic moving. Please do not exit your
vehicle to let your child out. There will be older students at the drop off
point to help your child.
Student Records
In the event of an address move or change your phone number,
please contact the office. Any changes to the students' address, telephone
number, or emergency contact information MUST be communicated to the school
office immediately. This school abides by the provisions of the Buckley
Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence
of a court order to the contrary, SJSJ will provide the non-custodial parent
access to academic records and other school information regarding his/her
child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information
given, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide SJSJ with a
court-certified copy of the court order. Detailed information about student
records and the right of the parent/guardian to restrict access to student
directory information is included on student information forms. Questions about
or additional copies of student record information may be obtained from the
school office. In the event that more than one copy of a record is required,
advance notice and the appropriate legal documentation if applicable are
required.
The office telephone is for school business. Students will use the
telephone only when absolutely necessary and must have teacher/office
permission. Calls for forgotten homework or to make afternoon plans will not be
permitted. For emergency purposes, the school office must be notified
immediately if there is a change in the home and/or work telephone number. In
the case when telephone numbers and addresses are changed without school
notification, and when the administration must make a decision regarding the
health, welfare, or treatment of a student without parental contact, the parent
waives his/her right to address the school at a later date for decisions made
in their absence.
Withdrawal is the voluntary termination of a student's enrollment
by the parents or guardian without provision for enrollment in another school.
This action may be taken only in cases where the student is exempt by the
reason of age or other cause from the compulsory education law. A parent or
guardian may withdraw a student at any time, but students should be encouraged
to complete their education if at all possible.
When a student
withdraws permanently from school, a Massachusetts Transfer Card is to be sent
to the Department of Education with a notation that the student is withdrawing
and not transferring to another school. A notation is to be made in the School
Register with the reason for withdrawal. The Principal should report each
withdrawal to the Superintendent according to the established child accounting
procedure.
Transfer is the voluntary termination of a student's enrollment by
the parents or guardian with provision for the student to be enrolled in
another school. A parent or guardian may decide to transfer a student at any
time and for any reason, but transfers for frivolous reasons should be
discouraged. The Principal should report each transfer to the Superintendent
according to the established child accounting procedure, and should forward the
student's records to the new school as soon as possible. Parents who wish to
transfer a child to another school are required to sign a release form in the
office for records to be released. All financial commitments are to be in order
before records will be released.
It should be noted that Withdrawal and Transfer are voluntary on
the part of the parents or guardian. If the student's enrollment is terminated
involuntarily, this must be considered Expulsion.
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