School Policies
Regular attendance is required of all students by school laws of Oklahoma. If a child is absent, we ask that the parents call the school (446-9756) before 9:00 a.m. Absences other than illness should be cleared in advance.
A student may not have more than five (5) absences per quarter (without a written notice from a doctor) in order to receive credit for completion of the required objectives. If a student is absent more than five (5) days, the student’s status will be reviewed by the principal, teachers, and parents.
All requests for homework should be made before 12:00 noon. This provides teachers with adequate time to prepare assignment materials. Requested make-up work may be sent home with another student or retrieved from the school office after 3:15 p.m. daily.
Students will be given 1 day per day absence to make up missed work. Any other arrangements will need to be approved by the student’s teacher(s).
There is no discrimination in our enrollment practices according to sex, race, ethnic background, social or economic status. Since we are a religiously oriented school for the Catholic community, we give preference to members of the Saint Catherine Church. Should the number of applicants for a class exceed the number of spaces available, students will be accepted in the following order:
Students and siblings currently enrolled in Saint Catherine School.
Practicing Saint Catherine parishioners with a first child in the family.
Practicing Saint Catherine parishioners not previously enrolled in the school.
Catholics transferring into Saint Catherine parish whose children have been enrolled in a Catholic school and have a letter of recommendation from the pastor of the previous parish.
Practicing Catholic parishioners from other Catholic parishes.
Non-Catholic applicants.
The principal makes the final decision on enrollment.
**Practicing Catholic is defined as one who attends Mass regularly, participates in the sacramental life of the Church, and who is a registered, supporting member of a parish.
All new students prior to admission must complete placement testing and be interviewed by the principal.
In fairness to an applicant, the school may decide not to admit a student whose special needs we feel could not adequately be served by our teaching staff and school facilities.
In certain situations, the school may elect to admit a student on a probationary basis. This arrangement will be stated in writing and kept on file until a final decision is reached.
All admissions are to be processed by the office, and no one other than the administration can officially admit a student to the school.
Students entering Saint Catherine School must present: birth certificate, sacramental records, immunization records and a physical.
After School Care/Before School Care
Saint Catherine School Before and After School Care programs are licensed by the Department of Human Services.
All students remaining after 3:25 p.m. will be sent to After School Care and parents will be billed. Attendance in the program is a privilege not a right. All students must follow behavior guidelines, respect authority and cooperate with established regulations.
Program Guidelines:
1. Students must be registered in Saint Catherine School and registered in B/A care. The registration fee is $10.
2. Fees for Before Care are $2.00 a day with the maximum of $44.00/month. Before Care begins at 7:05 a.m. Students will be taken to class at 7:40 a.m.
3. After Care begins at 3:25 p.m. and ends at 5:45 p.m. Students are checked in by an After Care employee. The fee for the After Care program is $2 -5/day with a maximum of $80.00/month.
4. On early dismissal days, After Care will begin at 12:15 p.m. and will end at 5:45 p.m.
5. For safety reasons, parent(s) must sign out their child each day when they pick them up and include the time they left.
6. For every minute after 6:00 p.m. that a child is not picked up, a $1.00 fee will be charged.
7. An updated list of people allowed to pick up your child must be kept on file. A written notice must be sent if your child is to go home with someone other than the parent. This person must also be on the list.
8. If a student is to go home with another student, we must have written notification from the parent.
9. The After Care program may be reached at 408-5625 or 361-5632.
10. Students will be supervised by an After Care employee after 3:25 p.m. unless they are attending a school activity. No student will be allowed to enter a classroom after 3:45 unless the teacher is present and permission is given.
11. The teachers will inform the After Care program if a student is under their care.
12. You will be charged for After Care if your child is present.
13. Aftercare follows the same guidelines as stated in the school handbook (i.e. Games not allowed and dress code.)
A variety of after school activities will be provided. Information will be sent home about each activity and students may register for the activities of their choice. Permission slips are required for participation and fees may be applicable.
According to state law, Preschool students must be 3 years of age by September 1 to begin the program.
According to state law, a child must be five years of age on or before September 1st to enter kindergarten and must be six years of age on or before September 1st to enter first grade.
The possession, sale, or use of alcohol, drugs, or any other controlled substance on school campus or at school-sponsored activities is strictly forbidden. Violation of the rule will result in immediate suspension, possible expulsion and will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. (Appendix #3)
It is recommended students arrive at 7:45 a.m. This will allow preparation time before the beginning of class. Students who arrive before 7:40 a.m. are to be supervised by their parents or they will need to report to Before Care. The school is not open to students until 7:40 a.m. Saint Catherine School will not be responsible for students on campus before 7:40 a.m.
Asbestos
NOTIFICATION OF AVAILABILTY PLAN
TO ALL PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND EMPLOYEES OF SAINT CATHERINE SCHOOL:
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 requires that this school be inspected and a Management plan be written to document this. A copy of this plan is available at this school and the Catholic Schools Office if you wish to see it.
NOTIFICATION OF ACTIVITIES
TO ALL PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND SCHOOL EMPLOYEES:
The School will notify all parents, teachers, and other employees (full time, part time, short term) of any asbestos, including assumed asbestos, in buildings, information concerning inspections, reinspections, response actions and post-response action activities, including periodic reinspection and surveillance activities that are planned or in progress at least annually.
The School will notify all parents, teachers, and other employees (full time, part time, short term) of the availability of the management plan by inclusion of this information in the Faculty Handbook, the Parent/Student Handbook, and in or before the September school newsletter. Additionally, information regarding any asbestos-related activities, planned or in progress, will be disseminated by notes sent home with students and given directly to employees, concerning the specific activity.
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Athletic competition is promoted as an extension of the school’s philosophy and goals. The intention is to teach and develop physical skills, mental discipline, and Christian sportsmanship. All students are allowed to participate regardless of their skill level or experience.
An academic requirement exists for students, grades 5-8. (See No Pass – No Play)
Parents are responsible for a student’s school attendance. Regular attendance is essential for success in school. Each student is expected to be present in school unless he/she is ill.
If a student must have an early dismissal, notification from the parents is required. No student may leave school grounds between 8:00 a.m. and 3:10 p.m. without permission from a member of the school staff. Any person picking up a student from school during school hours must first report to the school office. The school reserves the right to ask any person unknown to them and who is picking up a child to present a legal document showing his/her identity.
A school band class is offered for students in grades four through eight. Band class is offered during school hours. Students will be expected to make up classroom work that is missed while attending band class.
See After School Care.
Each teacher will establish the classroom policy concerning parties. It is requested that classes are not disrupted to deliver individual gifts such as flowers, balloons, etc. To avoid embarrassment to students, we request that no individual invitations be brought to school unless ALL members of the class will receive an invitation.
For safety and educational reasons, no visitor, unless to perform duty as an aide, may go directly to the classroom during school hours. Forgotten lunches, books, etc. are to be brought to the office and your child will be notified. Classrooms may not be disturbed! All visitors must report to the school office.
As required by the state Department of Education, Saint Catherine School will abide by the "School Bullying Prevention Act" which became effective November 1, 2002. A synopsis of the "Act" appears below. For a copy of the entire "Act," contact the Office of the Principal.
AMENDED OKLAHOMA STATUTE TITLE 70 SECTION 24-100.2.4
"SCHOOL BULLYING PREVENTION ACT"
The Legislature finds that bullying has a negative effect on the social environment of schools. Nothing in this act shall be construed to impose a specific liability on any school district. Each district board of education shall adopt a policy for the control and discipline of all attending children. The policy shall specifically prohibit harassment, intimidation, and bullying by students at school and address prevention of and education about such behavior.
Definitions:
“Harassment, intimidation and bullying” means any gesture, written or verbal expression, or physical act that a reasonable person should know will harm another student, damage another student's property, place another student in reasonable fear of harm to the student's person or property, or insult or demean any student or group of students in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s educational mission or the education of any student. "Harassment, Intimidation and bullying" include, but are not limited to, a gesture or a written, verbal, or physical act.
“At school" means on school grounds, in school vehicles, at school-sponsored activities, or at school-sanctioned events.
Regulations:
1. All students who participate in bullying behavior will conference with the teacher or principal to discuss his/her actions.
2. As the school policy states on page 14, physical activity such as pushing/fighting is grounds for automatic suspension.
3. Since children in preschool – second grade are developmentally at a different stage in their learning process, bullying situations will be handled with this in mind. Redirection and discussion of hurtful behavior will be the primary course of action unless the behavior is excessively repeated, in which case additional consequences will be administered.
4. The following consequences serve as a guideline for possible disciplinary measures for students in grades 3 – 8.
A. First Offense – Warning/ Discussion of behavior/ Written apology to victim
B. Second Offense – Discussion of behavior/ Written apology to victim/ Three days of lunch/recess detention
C. Third Offense – Discussion of behavior/ Written apology to victim/ Five days of lunch/recess detention
D. Fourth Offense – Discussion of behavior/ Written apology to victim/ Two days out-of-school suspension
E. Fifth Offense and further – Administration will review each offense and administer appropriate consequences; long-term suspension or expulsion is possible.
Saint Catherine School will follow the decision of Tulsa Public Schools regarding any early dismissal and/or school closings due to bad weather. Please tune in to local radio and television stations for these notifications.
Parents are encouraged to use their judgment about transporting students in inclement weather.
Changes of home or business address or phone numbers must be reported at once to the school office. Emergency information must be kept current and accurate for the safety and well-being of your child.
Homeroom mothers will coordinate classroom parties for Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. The classroom teacher may plan any other classroom parties.
Messages from the school will be sent home with the students on Wednesday’s in a folder from the office. It is recommended that parents check students’ book bags on a regular basis for communications from the school.
All students are provided the opportunity to learn computer literacy skills. No student may download a disk file from home without permission of the teacher. Any student that damages computer hardware of software is responsible for the repair or replacement of those items. In order for students to use the Internet, a parental permission slip must be signed.
Student conduct at school and school sponsored activities is expected to follow the guidelines detailed in the handbook.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not interfere with the rights, privileges and safety of others and exemplifies the Christian values taught in the home and school.
Conferences are scheduled both in the fall and the early spring. Parents and teachers may request additional conferences at any time.
Middle School conferences are held at midterm of the first and third quarters to allow ample time for improvements as needed.
Saint Catherine School shall respect parental and student rights to information and Confidentiality. The school shall:
Provide parents and students access to records directly related to the student (e.g., the cumulative record, health records);
Permit parents and students to challenge these records and to secure an amendment if any are inaccurate or misleading;
Obtain a written consent of parents before releasing personally identifiable information from a student’s records.
Parental rights extend to either parent unless the school has been provided with evidence that there is a court order, statute, or legally binding document relating to such matters as divorce, separation, or custody that specifically revokes these rights.
If a parent or student disagrees with a ruling, the following procedure should be used:
If the complaint is about a teacher, the individual will go first to that teacher to seek a solution. If the matter is not resolved satisfactorily, continue the process.
Conference with the principal and the teacher. The principal will make a ruling.
After these steps have been followed, and the matter is not resolved, the matter will be referred to the pastor.
If the complaint involves the principal, the pastor may be contacted only after the matter has been addressed with the principal.
All School Advisory Board members are not to resolve school problems, but are to refer the aggrieved person to the above procedure. If approached, the member should notify the principal.
According to Diocesan policy, no corporal punishment is used at Saint Catherine School.
Students may be required to make up time or assignments during lunch or recess. Recess is typically used for minor infractions, and parents will not be notified of the detention prior to students serving it. Students may also be required to serve after school detention and/or Saturday detention if warranted by the behavior. Parents will receive at least 24 hours notice of such a detention and the infraction that warranted it.
An important aim of Catholic education is the Christian development of the person. Saint Catherine School practices formative discipline, which is intended to establish a sense of self-respect, respect for others and their rights, and a foundation for responsible and productive citizenship. The immediate goal of discipline is to create a favorable atmosphere for learning.
Student restrictions are designed to create an atmosphere conducive to achieving school goals. Discipline will be administered when any individual’s actions interfere with the right of teachers to teach and students to learn. All individual students, parents, staff, faculty, and administration deserve the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
The Preschool through Eighth grades will be dismissed at 3:10 p.m. Students will be released to parents through the north doors.
Because of congestion, it is extremely important that parents do not leave their cars unless they are in designated areas.
Any child not picked up by 3:25 will be sent to After School Care and parents will be billed for the service. Saint Catherine School is not responsible for students remaining on the school grounds after 3:25 p.m. unless students are in the After School Care program.
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Uniforms are to be worn daily unless otherwise specified by the administration. (See Uniform)
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No baggy or oversized sweaters/sweatshirts or pants.
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Only a plain white t-shirt may be worn under school shirts.
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Socks must be worn with uniforms (Crew socks are preferred).
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Shirts must remain tucked in on campus.
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Shorts must be worn under skirts/jumpers.
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No makeup is to be worn by students (except eighth grade girls.)
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No perfume, perfumed lotion, or cologne at any grade level.
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No glitter make-up or glitter lotion.
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Hair must be clean, combed, out of the eyes, and neat.
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No extreme or “wild” styles (razor designs, zigzags, stripes, tails).
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Subtle natural hair-color highlighting only. No bleaching or tinting.
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Hair for boys no longer than collar length and may not extend beyond the eyebrows.
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No facial hair.
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Jewelry should be appropriate and compliment the uniform.
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No dangling earrings or oversized jewelry.
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No earrings for boys.
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No body piercing.
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Students must be clean, neat, and observe good standards of personal hygiene.
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Clothing should be clean and free of holes.
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Older students need to remember deodorant especially on P.E. days.
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Absolutely no coats, jackets or non-regulation sweatshirts are to be worn in the classrooms.
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Nail polish (for girls 5th - 8th only) may not be distractive or the student will be asked to remove it.
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The principal shall limit fads as individual cases arrive.
Students should wear nice outfits- no jeans, no shorts, no t-shirts without collars, no sloppy clothing. Shirts must be tucked in on these days. Parents will be notified of these days in advance.
The drug and alcohol policy is explained in Appendix #3.
These are days when school will be dismissed at 12:00 p.m.. After School Care is usually provided on these days, but not always. Parents will be notified in advance.
Electronic Games, Toys, Cell Phones and Pagers
Students are not to bring electronic games, Walkman radios, electronic assignment organizers or other expensive items to school. The school takes no responsibility for losses incurred by those who disregard this rule. No fad games, toys, or collectibles are allowed at school, After Care, or Intersession. Cell phones and pagers for students are not allowed.
Students participate in emergency drills as required by the State Department of Education for the safety of the children.
The following schedule will be followed for enrollment.
IN-HOUSE ENROLLMENT- For students currently enrolled in Saint Catherine School and their siblings. This begins during Catholic Schools Week and lasts for two weeks.
WAITING LIST ENROLLMENT- For students on the waiting list. This will begin after the in-house enrollment is complete and last for two weeks.
OPEN ENROLLMENT- For any student not currently enrolled in Saint Catherine School. This enrollment begins in March.
Progress reports will be issued for all students midway through the first quarter. Throughout the year, other progress reports will be issued on an as needed basis.
Report cards are issued quarterly. Final grades are determined by a combination of performance on daily work, homework, quizzes, tests, class participation, and special projects. A separate effort grade will be given as well.
A student may be expelled from school for misconduct of a very serious nature calling for immediate dismissal. Expulsion, the permanent termination of a student’s enrollment, is a sanction that should be invoked rarely, as a last resort for clear and serious cause. (The specific process is detailed in the Diocesan Handbook available for check-out in the School Office.)
Students are encouraged to participate in extra activities including sports, scouts, contests, yearbook, etc. Some activities have eligibility requirements and/or charge fees.
All school sponsored field trips and outings have an educational purpose and are considered a privilege. Students must meet the teacher’s requirements in order to participate. A sponsor may fund field trips or students may have to pay a fee to attend. According to Diocesan policy, the school principal, faculty members, or staff members shall not drive students on any field trip.
All volunteers for field trips must have proper paperwork on file. (See the School Office for Details.)
No student is permitted to take part in a field trip, unless he/she has brought in the required permission slip form signed by parent or legal guardian BEFORE the time of the trip. TELEPHONE CALLS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF PROPER FORMS.
The actions of each student at Saint Catherine School should reflect the morals and values that are the basic beliefs and goals of the school. Any student who assaults another, either physically or verbally, will be subject to immediate discipline and possible suspension. Repeated violations will be cause for suspension or expulsion.
Parents and guardians are expected to pay all bills in a timely fashion. Failure to meet financial obligations may result in a student being asked to leave school or not being allowed to enroll for the following year.
On free dress days, students may wear nice non-uniform apparel. When shorts are allowed, they must have an inseam of no less than 7', and may not extend more than 1’ below the middle of the knee. Sandals with socks may be worn on these days. Free dress days are announced throughout the year to be used as incentives and often have a theme (jeans and beans, hat day, sports day, etc.).
Fund raising is a necessary part of Catholic School. Funds are used to provide additional educational supplies and equipment not covered by the general budget. It is required that parents are aware of the fundraisers and participation is encouraged.
Home and School, Student Council, and Eighth Grade will be responsible for the majority of these efforts.
The grading scale used at Saint Catherine School is as follows:
90 – 100 A Excellent
80 – 89 B Above Average
70 – 79 C Average
65 – 69 D Below Average
00 – 64 F Failure
Students are not allowed to chew gum anywhere on school grounds. We ask that students do not bring pop on school grounds. There may be occasional exceptions to this rule. (With the exception of the elementary classes, food is not to be eaten during class time unless approved by the classroom teacher.)
The school office will provide minor first aid. Parents will be notified if there is an emergency or an illness. Because of limited space, we request students to be picked up immediately once the parent has been notified. All school health records must be kept up to date and accurate.
If a child has a fever, diarrhea, or is vomiting, he/she is not to return to school until 24 hours AFTER the condition has ceased to be a problem. This means the problem no longer exists - even without the benefit of symptom-relieving medication.
All communicable diseases (i.e., lice, conjunctivitis (pink eye), measles, etc.) must be reported to the school office immediately.
LICE and NITS: If a child has nits or lice, he/she will be excused from school for a minimum of two days and cannot return until the student is lice free and the nits are at least a half inch from the scalp. If your child is infested two times or more, he/she will be required to be lice/nit free before returning to class.
All students in grades 1, 3, 5, and 7 must have a physical on record in the office before the first day of school. Forms are available in the school office.
Holds will be placed on grade cards if there are unpaid fines (library, textbooks), fees or tuition.
Homework is designed to strengthen and review skills learned in class, to encourage good study habits, and to allow students to explore and extend material presented in the classroom.
The amount of homework will vary with each student. There are several reasons for this. Some students have difficulty attending to work or organizing classroom time and may consequently bring more work home. Some students are very conscientious and do more than is usually required. Some may have difficulty in a subject area and need more time to understand concepts presented.
If a student is ill or misses class for any other reason, the student will be given 1 day to make up the assignments for each day the student is absent. If other arrangements are necessary, these will need to be made with the child’s teacher(s).
This is the official parent/teacher organization of Saint Catherine School. The organization has two main goals: 1) to promote a sense of community among school families by giving parents the opportunity to meet and know one another and to work together for the good of our children’s education, and 2) to organize fundraisers for the purpose of buying instructional materials and equipment for the school.
Homeroom Parent Responsibilities
Plan and execute class parties (Halloween, Christmas, Valentines)
Organize classroom events for fundraisers.
Help teachers with class projects.
Seventh grade classes will be responsible for the Eighth grade Graduation reception.
Assist with emergency calling trees.
The honor roll requirements are as follows and apply to grades 3 - 8:
Principal Honor Roll: Student must have all A’s or A’s & only 1 B in academic subjects.
Teacher Honor Roll: Student must have A’s and B’s or only one C in academic subjects.
State law requires parents of children entering school for the first time to present a copy of immunizations certified by the doctor or health department before they attend school. The copy should be given to the school secretary during final registration. The following immunizations are required by the State of Oklahoma:
3 Years of Age |
4-7 Years of Age |
4 DPT |
5 DPT |
3 Polio |
4 Polio (IPV or OPV) |
1 MMR |
2 MMR |
Hepatitis A (2 doses) |
Varicella #2 |
Varicella(chickenpox)** |
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Hepatitis B (3 doses) |
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Hib/HbOC (1-4 doses) |
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* Beginning 98/99 school year, all students entering Kindergarten and 7th grade will be required to have had two doses of hepatitis A vaccine, with the first dose on or after the second birthday and the second dose six to eighteen months later.
** Beginning 98/99 school year, all students entering Kindergarten will also be required to have had one dose of varicella vaccine given on or after the first birthday, or a parent’s statement of a history of the disease will be accepted.
If a student is not passing at the time the grade card is issued due to illness or extenuating circumstances, a teacher may give an “I” on a report card. An incomplete grade will become a failure unless the student satisfactorily completes the work within the allotted time agreed upon by student and teacher.
Students may be removed from the regular classroom and serve an in-house suspension for sudden outbursts of unacceptable behavior, breaking a rule consistently, or other behavior which impedes the learning of other students.
During an in-house suspension, the student completes regular classroom assignments and any additional work determined by the teacher. If the work is not completed by the start of the next school morning, the student will remain in-house until the work is completed. After two in-house suspensions in one quarter, the student’s next in-house becomes a suspension
As the school goes on line, every attempt will be made to restrict access to unwanted or distasteful information. Students and parents will be asked to sign a contract that states an understanding and agreement for the use of Internet at Saint Catherine School.
See Tardiness.
Students are not allowed to leave campus during the day without the knowledge and consent of their teacher. Permission to leave with anyone other than a parent or guardian will only be granted upon written or verbal request from the student’s parent/guardian.
Parents must go to the office and sign out students before leaving the school. Students will be called to the office. If the student is to return during the day, the student must sign in.
Students are allowed to check out books and do research in the library. Students are responsible for what they check out and will be expected to pay fines for late returns and/or replace lost books.
There is a lost and found box located in the School Office. These items are kept for a period of time and then released to Catholic Charities. Parents are urged to put the student’s name on all items, including coats and P.E. clothes.
Students bring their own lunch to school or may purchase a lunch from the cafeteria. To purchase these meals, students return the monthly menu and payment by the deadline given.
There is no microwave available for student use - so do not send foods that will need heated.
If a student has forgotten to bring a lunch, and a parent has opted to bring in fast food, that parent must stay and join the child for lunch. Students will be charged $1.50 for the school to provide a lunch and a note will be sent home in the information packet.
IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY IN GRADES 3-8 TO ASK THE TEACHER FOR ALL MISSED ASSIGNMENTS DUE TO ABSENCE. The student will have 1 day for each absence. If more time is needed, arrangements will need to be made with the child’s teacher(s).
All students will attend and participate in Mass. Parents are urged to attend and sit with their children. Attendance during the week does not fulfill a Catholic’s Sunday obligation.
Certain guidelines must be met if a student must take medications at school.
Non-Prescription Medication—Student’s must have the proper form signed and on file in the office. A phone call will be placed PRIOR to each administration and the guardian must give verbal permission. THE SCHOOL WILL NOT PROVIDE MEDICATION.
Prescription Medication-- All prescription medicine must be brought to school in the original container indicating the doctor and dates of the prescription. The school office provides a form for describing the specific dosage and procedure for dispensing of medication.
Saint Catherine School personnel will not administer nebulizer-breathing treatments to students per Senate Bill No. 545 signed in 1995 by Governor Frank Keating. A parent or designated provider is welcome to do so.
Messages for students are limited to emergency situations only. All attempts are made to limit classroom interruptions in order to enhance the learning environment. If messages must be sent to students or teachers, please call the office early to allow enough time for the message to be delivered.
Participation in school sponsored extra-curricular activities will be dependent on academic performance. This policy is in compliance with the policies set forth by the State Department of Education and DMSAA (Diocesan Middle School Athletic Association). The purpose of this policy is to help students realize the importance of academics for future success.
All students are eligible to participate in school-sponsored activities (scouts, sports, speech, student council, yearbook, music, etc.). Students in 5th - 8th grades would become ineligible under the following conditions.
The student does not maintain a “C” average.
The student is earning the letter grade of “F” in any one subject.
The student’s conduct is unbecoming that of a Christian student.
The following guidelines are used to determine eligibility:
Three weeks into a grading period, grades shall be checked.
All students who meet one of the conditions listed above will become ineligible and will be placed on probation for one week.
Probation will last from Monday through the following Sunday.
While on probation students may not participate in games, meetings or performances.
If the cumulative grade average does not improve, the student will continue to be on probation until he/she becomes eligible.
The administration will retain the authority to alter these regulations for students who have identified learning differences.
Parents and potential students are welcome to observe in classrooms. Requests should be made through the office and will be scheduled with the classroom teacher.
Teachers will be in their classrooms by 7:40 a.m. daily and will remain there until 3:25 p.m. Please make an appointment with the teacher if you have concerns regarding your student.
The office will be open from 7:30 – 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
We encourage, welcome and deeply appreciate the assistance of regular, reliable, and committed parent volunteers. We believe this a true sign of stewardship.
All parents working with students will be required to complete an application and required forms for the safety of all of our students. (See the school office for these forms)
All other volunteers will need to fill out forms in the office.
Parents loitering in halls during school hours will not be tolerated.
Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., no parking is allowed in the North parking lot, as this is used as a playground. Visitors throughout the school day are to park in the east lot. For drop-off and after school pick-up, parents should enter through the west gates and leave through the east exit for the safety of our students.
All students entering first, third, fifth, and seventh grades are required to have a physical form on file with the school office before September 15.
Parents are asked to drop off students via the South 27th West Avenue entrance and exit through the east exit onto South 25th West Ave. between the hours of 7-8 a.m. and 3:00-3:25 p.m..
Students must follow playground rules when using the playground. These rules are for the safety of everyone on the playground and the same rules shall also apply during After Care.
The rules are as follows:
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Leave all glass, rocks, sticks, woodchip and dirt where you found them.
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Monkey bars are for swinging only.
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Sit correctly in the swings and swing back and forth only.
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Play tag football only.
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Feet must go down first when sliding down the slides. Slide DOWN only.
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Hitting the power line is dangerous, therefore, no throwing anything at or over the power line.
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Kickball rules are the same as the PE rules. Abusive or aggressive behavior and language will not be tolerated.
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Basketball court- either play half court or 6 vs. 6. Everyone must be willing to sub in and out. Abusive language or aggressive fouls are not acceptable. Hanging from the basketball rims is not allowed.
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Standing or sitting in the middle of the bouncy toy is dangerous, therefore, it will not be allowed.
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All play equipment must be returned to proper place.
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Play tag only on the playground or field area, not on playground equipment.
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Keep away from swings while they are in use.
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Trees on our playground are not for climbing.
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Stay away from the tree line at the back of the field.
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Always be in view of the teacher(s) on duty.
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For safety reasons, do not stand on the bike rack.
Promotions and retentions are based on an evaluation of academic, physical, social and emotional growth. The primary reasons for considering retention are: a) developmental reasons, b) indifference or lack of effort on the part of a capable student, c) physical or social immaturity, d) frequent or long absences, e) excessive tardies, f) non-mastery of grade level skills. Parents will be involved in any retention process.
Students who successfully complete assigned material, comply with the attendance regulations, and attain a minimum “D” average, will be promoted.
Students in grades five through eight will adhere to the following policy:
Each class per semester is worth .5 credits. Classes include academic courses (math, language arts, social studies, science and religion) and exploratory classes (Spanish, physical education, technology). A student must obtain 5 out of 7 potential credits throughout the course of the year. Four of the five credits must be obtained by passing academic courses (math, language arts, social studies, science or religion).
Students who fail to meet the minimum level of achievement for a given grade level may be conditionally advanced if after consideration of all factors (social, emotional, physical, academic, age),it is determined that retention would not benefit the student.
If a student is promoted to the next grade level over the advice of the professional staff, parents will be required to sign a statement that they realize this action is against the professional advice of the school staff. Each student will be addressed as to his or her individual needs.
Students will go outside if the temperature (including wind chill) is 32 degrees or above, so please dress students accordingly.
Parents may request indoor recess for students who cannot go outside for health reasons. A note from a doctor is required for indoor recess longer than two days.
If a child requires only restricted activity during recess, that student will go outside and activity will be restricted there.
Repair/Replacement of School Property
Parents and students will be financially responsible for any school property that is damaged or destroyed by the student. Because of budget limitations, even if the damage is not intentional, the student and parents may be responsible.
All students who attend Saint Catherine School will be expected to attend religion class and complete assignments.
Report cards are given at the end of every nine weeks. The cards are given to parents at conferences or mailed.
Students must learn that they are responsible for their actions, and therefore the consequences of their actions. Students are to use the control they have over their lives to make good choices. Students also need to learn to respect others and come to understand their preference has to take second place to benefit the community of learners in their classroom.
Self-discipline is a key Christian concept and students will be encouraged to develop strength in this area appropriate to their age and ability.
Saint Catherine School does not condone any verbiage or behavior that constitutes sexual harassment. In the event of such behavior, the student is to notify the classroom teacher. If the teacher is unable to respond to the situation, the student is to inform the principal. The teacher/principal will inform the offending student of the unacceptable behavior and the expected change, as a warning. If the administration cannot prevent repetition of the behavior, the offending person will be required to withdraw from the school. Any action based upon lack of respect by others will not be tolerated.
Share Hours is a service-hour commitment for each family of 15 hours minimum (7.5 hours minimum for single parent families). In order to insure a quality education for our children, every school family is asked to perform hours of service. Our goal is to increase stewardship in the Saint Catherine community as a whole. The list of eligible activities is varied and subject to change depending on the school’s needs.
Sharing our gifts of time, talent and treasure is of the utmost importance at Saint Catherine Church and School. So many of the wonderful opportunities our students have available to them would otherwise not be offered if not for the precious time that so many of our parents and community members donate so freely. Parents are always encouraged to participate in their children’s education as much as possible in order to maintain and improve the high standard of excellence that Saint Catherine has established. Examples of gifts of time include but are not limited to the following: coaching sports teams, sponsoring clubs, driving for field trips, participating in Home and School activities, serving on an Advisory Council committee, tutoring, participating in Days of Caring, etc.
Student Government opportunities are available for students in 5-8th grades. Students must exhibit responsible behaviors in and out of class in order to qualify. Students not meeting the requirements will be asked to step down from this position until improvements are made. This organization will conduct service projects and fund raisers to benefit the school as well as our community.
Students may be suspended for serious reasons, including but not limited to:
Conduct unbecoming a Christian student
Incorrigible or disruptive behavior which impedes the progress of the rest of the class
Use, possession or sale of weapons, drugs, or controlled substance
Infliction of or threatened physical injury to self or another person.
Grounds for suspension cover conduct occurring on campus or off campus during school related activities.
The specific process is detailed in the Diocesan Handbook available for check-out in the School Office. (Appendix #5)
Students reporting late to school must obtain a tardy slip or admit slip from the office. On Monday’s a parent must bring in students who are more than ten minutes late. If a student is more than 10 minutes late Tuesday-Friday, a parent will be required to stay with him/her in the Narthex until Mass is over in addition to obtaining the tardy slip from the office. Persistent tardiness will result in a principal/parent/student conference and/or other consequences deemed appropriate by the principal.
Students are only permitted to use the telephone in cases of emergency. If a student forgets everyday materials or assignments, the student will not be permitted to use the telephone to ask someone to bring those items. This stand corresponds to our ongoing endeavor to promote and develop a sense of personal responsibility within your child.
Formal standardized testing is done in each spring and results are given to parents.
Students are responsible for maintaining their textbooks in good order and caring for all learning materials, keeping them covered as applicable. If a textbook or any other classroom item a student has is lost or damaged, that student is responsible for its replacement. A student will not be issued another textbook until he/she has paid for the lost/destroyed item.
· Refund policy- The yearly tuition rate is divided up into four 9-week terms. Refunds will be based on the tuition for that 9-week term. There is a 100% tuition refund during the first 5 business days of each 9-week term. There is a 50% tuition refund during the next 15 business days of each 9-week term. Starting the 21st business day of each 9-week term, there is no refund available.
· Prorate policy- Tuition will be prorated beginning the 16th business day of each 9-week term. Questions regarding these policies should be directed to the business office.
Any absence not properly explained is unexcused. Work cannot be made up for these absences. If a student skips class or school, a parent will be notified. All make-up work will be completed but no grade will be given.
All students in grades K-8 wear uniforms. It is the student/parent’s responsibility to make sure the student is in proper uniform. Students who are in extreme violation of proper uniform may not be allowed to attend class and may be sent home to change into the proper uniform. Parents will be notified of uniform violations.
Regulation uniforms may be purchased at C & J Uniforms, 4950 S 79th E Ave in the Fontana Shopping Center, phone 610-7470.
Girls K-4
Regulation jumper (No shorter than credit card width from kneeling position
Solid navy, white, or light blue collared shirts (May have oxford, peter pan or knit collar; white or navy blue turtlenecks may only be worn underneath a regulation shirt)
Solid navy pants (No jeans, corduroy, pants gathered at the ankle, cargos, or tight fitting pants)
Belt (if pants have loops- solid black, brown, white or navy)
Solid navy walking shorts or skorts (No more than credit card width above knee from kneeling position)
Solid navy, black, white or light blue socks (Girls may wear tights in cold weather)
Solid navy or white sweaters or sweatshirts worn over official school shirt (No emblems)
Regulation sweatshirt (Worn over official school shirt)
Boys K-4
Solid navy pants (No jeans, corduroy, pants gathered at the ankle, cargos, or tight fitting pants) Solid navy, white, or light blue collared shirt (May have oxford or knit collar; white or navy blue turtlenecks may only be worn underneath a regulation shirt)
Belt (if pants have loops- solid black, brown, white or navy)
Solid navy walking shorts (No more than credit card width above knee from kneeling position)
Solid navy, black, white or light blue socks
Solid navy or white sweaters or sweatshirts worn over official school shirt (No emblems)
Regulation sweatshirt (Worn over official school shirt)
Girls 5-8
Regulation skirt (No more than credit card width above the knee from kneeling position)
Solid navy, white, or light blue collared shirts (May have oxford, peter pan or knit collar; white or navy blue turtlenecks may only be worn underneath a regulation shirt)
Solid navy or khaki pants with loops (No jeans, corduroy, pants gathered at the ankle, cargos, or inappropriately fitting pants)
Belt (solid black, brown, white or navy)
Solid navy or khaki walking shorts with belt loops (No more than credit card width above knee from kneeling position; no cargo shorts)
Solid navy, black, white or light blue socks.
Solid navy, white or gray sweaters or sweatshirts worn over official school shirt (No emblems)
Boys 5-8
Solid navy, white, or light blue collared shirts (May have oxford or knit collar; white or navy blue turtlenecks may only be worn underneath a regulation shirt)
Solid navy or khaki pants with loops (No jeans, corduroy, pants gathered at the ankle, cargos,or inappropriately fitting pants)
Belt (solid black, brown, white or navy)
Solid navy or khaki walking shorts with belt loops (No more than credit card width above knee from kneeling position; no cargo shorts)
Solid navy, black, white or light blue socks
Solid navy, white or gray sweaters or sweatshirts worn over official school shirt (No emblems)
PE Uniform (Grades 3-8)
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Solid navy blue shorts (Regulation length; no logos)
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Saint Catherine School logo t-shirt ONLY (No inside out logo shirts)
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Solid navy, white or gray sweatshirt for cool days (No logos)
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Solid navy, white or gray sweatpants/windpants for cool days (No logos or stripes)
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Athletic shoes
Shoes
Dress shoes may be solid black, brown, navy or white [No platforms over 1-½ inches, boots (of any kind), cleats, or sandals. Laces must match the shoes.
Tennis shoes may be a combination of navy, white, gray or black, but may not have cartoon logos, flashing lights or cleats. Laces must match the shoes.
All shirts must be tucked in at all times.
Shorts and skorts may be worn from the opening of school until October 15th and from April 1st to the end of school unless students are informed otherwise.
Guests are welcome to visit the school on a limited basis, however, classroom observations should be pre-arranged through the school office.
Students who wish to bring guests to school must have pre-approval from the principal and the classroom teacher.
Loitering is highly discouraged as it interrupts the educational process and does not allow students, teachers or other staff members to perform their duties. If you have an educational concern, please contact the faculty member you would like to speak with to set up an appointment.
We encourage, welcome and deeply appreciate the assistance of regular, reliable, and committed volunteers. We believe this a true sign of stewardship.
All parents working with students will be required to complete an application, VIRTUS training and required forms for the safety of all of our students. (Forms available in School Office)
All volunteers working with children are to be bound by the school codes of confidentiality and ethics, as well as our school’s mission and philosophy.
Any early withdraw of a student from Saint Catherine School requires written notification from the parent as well as an exit interview with the principal/pastor. All bills and library fines must be paid and books turned in before Saint Catherine School can release a student’s records. See Tuition – Refunds and Prorate for details regarding billing.