Saint Theresa School Student Handbook

Saint Theresa School
-To Serve One Another -
Strong academics rooted in faith

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the community of Saint Theresa School! We are pleased to present this Parent/ Student Handbook to you so that you will know more about the school and how we will work together for the education of your child.

The faculty and staff of your school look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in the context of the Catholic values of community, service, reverence, and leadership.

May we together embark on the journey of faith we share for the good of all members of the St. Theresa community.

Cordially,

Msgr. James K. Vaughey
Pastor

Mrs. Donna Sutton
Principal

St. Theresa School in Briarcliff Manor, New York was founded in 1965 and is the Parochial Elementary School of St. Theresa Parish. St. Theresa School provides a Catholic education for children in Pre- Kindergarten through Grade Eight who reside in Briarcliff Manor and surrounding school districts.

St. Theresa School is part of the elementary school system of the Archdiocese of New York. We implement all policy promulgated by the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York, and we are ultimately responsible to the Archbishop of New York.

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Roman Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base their educational purpose and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all persons as rooted in God’s love.

Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Archdiocese do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, and gender in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New York whether owned or operated by the Archdiocese, the parishes of the Archdiocese or religious communities with the Archdiocese.

The process for admission to St. Theresa School is: parents must complete the school application form and provide all required documents. Following an interview and evaluation of the materials, the parent will be notified about the status of the child.

St. Theresa School gives preference in admission first, to siblings of currently enrolled students; second, to Catholic students whose parents are active members of the parish; third, to Catholic students whose parents are active in another Catholic parish; fourth, to non-Catholic students.

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We believe that every person is a special gift from God. We believe that every child can learn, and it is the responsibility of the whole community of St. Theresa Parish to work together to provide an environment that is conducive to enabling each child to grow and develop intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally, at his/her own pace in order to become a successful, contributing adult of the 21st century.

St. Theresa School endorses the call of the Catholic Bishops of the United States to express its educational ministry through the three objectives of personal spirituality, social justice, and a strong academic program in accord with Christian values. This commitment extends to building Christian community to fostering Christian service to the whole human family.

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• We strive to present to our students a continuous and structured program of Religious education, the components of which include doctrine, service to others, morals, worship, prayer and Scripture.

• Our program consistently strives to create an atmosphere of mutual respect for all.

• We strive to prepare our students to become life-long learners and active, successful members of society in the 21st century.

• Our program of education in the secular subjects is structured in congruence with New York State Curriculum Guidelines and Archdiocesan norms.

• Our consistently implemented basic school policy calls upon the students to fulfill certain
responsibilities in school and at home with regard to homework and study.

• We encourage every member of the community to take an active part in our educational endeavors for our children.

It is our hope that together we can fulfill the above goals in the context of our talents and limitations, to the degree that we may all enter into the partnership that completes the process of education for each child.

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The policy contained in this handbook is not all encompassing. It may be necessary for the school Administration to formulate new policy and alter present policy as everyday affairs and contingencies dictate. Parents will be notified of any changes in a timely fashion.

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Harassment regulations need to be grounded in the belief that all persons have a right to be treated with dignity. All demeaning behavior is prohibited.
St. Theresa School provides a safe environment for all. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well being of any individual are taken seriously. Students making such threats even in jest face appropriate disciplinary action including detention, suspension or expulsion. Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior are subject to detention, suspension, or expulsion and where appropriate, will be referred for counseling services. If you believe that your child is being harassed, please notify the principal immediately.

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Self-contained classes for Pre-K through Grade 4
Departmental Program for Grades 5 - 8
Music, Art, Physical Education & Computer Education for Pre-K through Grade 8
Foreign Language (Spanish) for Grades Pre-K – 8, Band for grades 3-8

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St. Theresa School reserves the right to amend this handbook. Notice of amendments will be sent as necessary.

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St. Theresa School is a Catholic School, and although we realize that not all students and parents are Catholic, all students are afforded the opportunity to participate in all religious and prayer activities in school.

Our Religious Education Program is the cornerstone of our whole school program. The program has various dimensions that are continually evaluated and enriched.

School families have the responsibility to support their Parish and the Religion program of the school by regularly attending Liturgy on Sunday and Holy Days, participating in the religious education of their children at home, and working with the school personnel to develop various aspects of religion as described in our school curriculum.

The Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist are received in the second grade. A Confirmation Sacramental Program of instruction is provided for seventh and eighth graders in preparation for reception of Confirmation in the eighth grade.

Boys and girls in Grades 4 through 8 who wish to participate as Altar Servers are provided instruction. Parents are encouraged to serve as Lectors, Choir Members, Song Leaders and/or Eucharistic Ministers.

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8:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.

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8:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M. – Grades K through 8 and Full Day Pre-K4

9:00 A.M. – 11:45 A.M. – Half Day Pre-K4

12:15 P.M. – 2:15 P.M. – Pre-K3

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If it is necessary to get a message to your child in an emergency, please call the Office and we will take care of it for you.

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There are usually various activities sponsored after school each year. Students may remain in school for these activities held after school hours only if they have a written note from their parents granting permission. Parents are responsible for planning how their children will be picked up at the specified time indicated for each activity.

St. Theresa School sponsors an After-School Center for the benefit of its students and their parents. There are a series of forms, which must be completed and kept on file in order for a student to participate in this program. There is a fee charged which is based on the amount of time the student remains. These fees must be paid weekly/daily to the After-School Director. If a student does not cooperate with the rules of the Center, he/she will not be allowed to attend.

Participation in these activities is a privilege. Students are expected to fulfill their obligations in the classroom (class work and homework). In order to participate in extracurricular activities, students must pass each subject on their report card and model acceptable behavior both during the school day and during the selected activity. Failure to meet academic or behavioral requirements will result in the student’s suspension or dismissal from the activity. Participation in these activities requires a commitment of both student and parent. In individual cases regarding participation in extracurricular activities, the principal holds the final determination.

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Assemblies are planned monthly after First Friday Mass and for special occasions. There is often a significant investment in time and money in preparation for an assembly program. During assemblies students are expected to be attentive, courteous and responsible. Assemblies will be on the monthly calendars and parents are invited.

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Regular attendance is essential to a student’s success in school. Persistent absenteeism creates a genuine hardship for a student and is regarded as a very serious problem. Students, who are absent during the school day due to illness, may not attend after school activities such as sports, scouts, etc. When a child is absent, parents are required to phone the school by 9:00 A.M. Absence notes are still required in addition to the phone call.

Parents should call the Office to report a student’s absence and a note is required when the student returns to school after an absence. Students are responsible for making up any missed work during absence, submitting all homework assignments, and preparing to take any scheduled exams. In case of illegal absences, credit will not be given for any missed work. In the case of extended illness, it is the parent’s responsibility to acquire class work, assignments and homework during his/her recuperation and to make any necessary arrangements to take any missed examinations.

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Birthdays are a very special time for everyone. Students may wear their own clothes to school on their birthdays. In planning a special snack, please keep it simple and be sure to check with the child’s teacher ahead of time. The following would be preferred: cupcakes, juice boxes, and goody bags (grades Pre-k – 1). No cakes, pizza or hot food. (please contact your child’s teacher to find out about any students with food allergies).

Invitations distributed at school must include either the whole class or all the boys or all the girls. Students will not be allowed to distribute invitations in school if all students are not included.

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All books must be properly covered. Contact paper is NOT to be used to cover any books. Each child is responsible for keeping his/her books in good condition. Books that are lost or defaced become the liability of the student and his/her parents. If a book is lost or defaced, the school will bill the parents for the cost.

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The office must be informed immediately if there is a change of home address or telephone number for purposes of mailing and/or emergency.

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Under NYS law, school officials are legally obliged to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the proper agency. In so reporting, no allegation is made against a parent or caregiver. Rather, it is a judgment by the school that the child may be presenting signs of abuse or neglect.

If the teacher or school nurse suspects abuse or neglect, he or she must immediately confer with the principal to discuss the aspects of the abuse and to determine which person on the school staff will report the alleged abuse to the proper agency.

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Custodial parents are entitled to receive original sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.

Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such parents may be asked to supply the teacher with selfaddressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.

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There is a professional and moral ethic that requires all persons to safeguard all information of a privileged nature.

It is imperative that such information be regarded as a sacred trust.
• If there is evidence of knowledge that could impact on the health or safety of any person, the teacher has the responsibility to share the information with the principal.
• Under Section 423 of the Child Protective Services Act, school officials are required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child coming before them in their professional or official capacity is an abused or maltreated child. (See section on Child Abuse.)

The rules that govern privileged information apply, as well, to any personal or academic information that is discovered through daily classroom instruction or other social interaction with students, parents or peers. Always the sense of the sacred should prevail.

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Should a crisis require evacuation from St. Theresa School building, students will be brought to a safe place located at the lower Church or Pace University and parents can meet them there. For further information concerning the crisis, parents can refer to the following:

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Parents will be informed of proposed class trips in advance, as students will bring home a Permission Form, which will include important details. The Permission Form and prompt payment of any fees are necessary to make arrangements. Without the signed Permission Form, students may not go on any school field trip.

The Principal, in conjunction with the classroom teacher(s), can refuse permission for any class or student to attend a trip in the event those students fail to adhere to the guidelines of school conduct. The classroom teachers select the parents who will go on the class trip.

Since trips are integrated with the curriculum, we expect all children to participate.

We try to have resources available to financially assist those who need it for trips. Please contact the Principal. All matters will be handled confidentially.

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There will be a limit of two class parents per class. The term limit for class parent is two consecutive years.

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Parental judgment should always be exercised anytime conditions make it too difficult to get your children to school safely.

Notice of delayed opening and/or emergency closing will be announced on local radio stations. (WFAS- 1230 AM & 103.9 FM is the most informative.) St. Theresa School follows the directions for closings or delayed openings from the Ossining School District during regular school days.  In the event of closing or delayed scheduling, the automated IRIS alert system is activated. In the event of delayed opening, supervision for students will not be in place until twenty minutes prior to the opening time. In the interest of safety, please do not leave your children outside the school or in the lobby without supervision.

If a delayed opening is called, then the Pre-K4 morning session will not be held, except for those children who stay in Pre-K for the full day. These children should come to school at the same time as students in Grades K through 8. Pre-K3, the afternoon session, will be held on these days. On days when there is a two-hour delayed opening, there will be an option to purchase pizza for lunch.

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Before we can release any child prior to dismissal time, a note from the parent to the child’s teacher or the Principal, stating the reason and time for the early dismissal, is necessary. Please report to the Office, at the time designated in the note, in order to sign the child out. In case of emergency, a telephone call to the Office, prior to the time requested for dismissal, is requested. Parents are discouraged from making regular appointments for children during school hours. If a child is to go home with a person other than the parent, please identify the person by name in a note or a phone call.

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For the safety of all, fire drills are conducted frequently. Every classroom has two exits. We conduct fire drills at different times, on different days and use a variety of exits. Detailed exit plans are posted inside each classroom near the door and teachers review rules and exit procedures with the students. The fire alarm system is connected with the Briarcliff Manor Police Department, which monitors our drills. All students must follow the rules for safety during the Fire Drills.

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Faculty meetings are scheduled throughout the school year. Many, but not all, take place on First Fridays. All children will be dismissed at 12:00 Noon on these days.

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Field trips must serve an educational purpose and their value should be an integral part of the school’s instructional program. They broaden the students’ educational experiences. Field trips are privileges given to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip.

• Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals.

• Field trips vary on each grade level.

• Field trips are permissible when advanced planning, location, and the experience insure a successful learning opportunity.

• Individual teachers in consultation with the administration reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct.

• A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip. Verbal or faxed permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due in the office 48 hours before the day of the trip.

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A committee of volunteers from our school and a full-time cook prepares hot food, which students may purchase. Since this program depends upon volunteers, its existence may change from year to year depending on the number of volunteers available. The Home-School Association manages the program.

Students may purchase milk for the year at the beginning of each school year.

Forgotten lunches maybe brought to the school Office. If a student forgets lunch money, they may borrow money from the lunch program. Prompt repayment is necessary to ensure that funds are always available. Students who bring their own lunch must bring pre-prepared meals. The lunch staff cannot heat up or microwave student meals.

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Money that is brought to school for a specific purpose (class trip, book fair, milk money, etc.) must be put into an envelope with the child’s name and grade and amount. If a student does bring money to school the money should be kept on the student’s person and not left in the school bag, coat pocket, lunch box, or desk. The school cannot be responsible for lost money.

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As member of the Church committed to the preservation of life at all levels, the Catholic School must act in ways consistent with that commitment. Catholic schools, elementary as well as secondary, are faced sometimes with the situation of unwed mothers and fathers. The issue is certainly an emotionally charged
one. School officials will consider carefully the consequences of any policies that are adopted. At the very minimum, students will be encouraged to finish their work and receive grades and diplomas. The decision concerning a student’s continued school attendance is made by the principal after consultation with his/her parents or guardians, and in consideration of the best interest of the student, the unborn child and the school’s educational expectations.

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Except for emergencies, parents should never park directly in front of the school in the circle. All visitors to the school must park in the parking lot behind the cones set out for student safety. The front circle needs to be kept clear for the buses, emergency vehicles and the safety of the children.

Parents must accompany tardy students into the building and sign them in. Late arrivals and Pre-K children who come at 9:00 A.M. are reminded to park in the lot, not in front of the building.

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Students should not bring large sums of money or other valuables to school.

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To assure the security of the building and the safety of each child, St. Theresa School strongly enforces its policy of requiring all visitors, even Parents, to report to the office and sign in and out.

To avoid interruption of the learning process, no one may enter a classroom without permission of the principal.

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Students, for matters of importance or emergency, may use the phone in the main office after obtaining permission from the principal.

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Student lateness interrupts the learning process for your child and all other children in that classroom. Prompt arrival at school is expected of all students. Any tardy student, other than those arriving late due to bus problems, must sign the Late Book in the school Office. Tardy students are responsible for completing all class work and homework assigned and for taking all scheduled exams. Students who are late are asked to submit a note to the teacher explaining their lateness.

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A transfer request must be obtained from the school secretary. All books must be returned. All bills must be paid before records are transferred to another school.

St. Theresa School does not have staff available to supervise students present on the school grounds before 7:40 AM and after 2:30 PM. Students must not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:40 AM and parents must arrange to pick up at dismissal times.

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School buses drop off students in front of the school entrance. Supervision is provided from 7:40 A.M. until the start of classes at 8:00 A.M. Students board buses at dismissal between 2:20 and 2:30 P.M.

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Students may not ride any bus other than the one to which they are assigned unless a note from a parent making such a request is presented to the Teacher/Principal in the morning. The school will facilitate requests from parents who wish their children to travel on a bus other than the one to which they are assigned in accordance with the School District policy. If parents plan parties/gatherings for their children, travel arrangements must be made for the students by each child’s parents.

The bus driver is in complete charge of the bus and the supervision of the students while en route to and from school. The right of students to ride the school bus is conditional on their good behavior and observance of the rules. Violators of school bus rules will be reported to parents via a Conduct Referral from the driver and a call or note from the Principal. Repeated misconduct on the bus will result in forfeiture of the privilege of riding the bus.

One warning will be issued to the parent through the school Administration. Upon the commission of the second offense, the parent will be notified that the student is not eligible for bus transportation to and from school for a period of time to be determined by the School Administration. Any conduct, which hampers the safety or security of any students who ride the bus, may result in the permanent discontinuation of the privilege of riding the bus.

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The School Nurse is in the school daily.

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New York State law requires that each student in Grades PK-3, PK-4, K, 1, 3, and 7 have a physical examination. Parents will receive information concerning this from the School Nurse. All students who participate in any sport’s program must have a physical with the physician provided by the Briarcliff School District. This is done in school during the school day. This may be used for the 3rd and 7th graders’ physical requirement.

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No child will be permitted to attend school unless his/her Immunization Record has been reviewed and approved by the School Nurse. All forms must be in the Office prior to the opening of school in September.

New York State Immunization Requirements for School Entrance and Attendance

New York City Department of Health, Bureau of Immunization, 2 Lafayette Street, 19th Floor, New
York, NY 10007 (212) 676-2273
New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control - Immunization
Program, ESP, Corning Tower,
Room 649, Albany, NY 12237 (518) 473-4437

Varicella Vaccine (Required)

Immunization against varicella (chickenpox) is now required by law. In 1999, Public Health Law Section
2164 was amended to require the following children to be immunized against varicella:

• all children born on or after January 1,1998 and are entering kindergarten in September 2007
• children born on or after January 1, 2000 and are enrolled in any school.

The administration of varicella vaccine in not recommended for children under the age of one.

Information on varicella vaccine was not required to be entered on the immunization survey form until September 2001.

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Parents should inform the School Nurse and the school administration of a student’s special needs while in school, or of any significant family crisis.
All information will be held in strict confidence.

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Any medication that must be taken by a student during the school day must be kept in the medical office.
Before medication can be dispensed, the school must be in possession of the following:
• Medication in a container with a pharmaceutical label
• Parental permission note
• Instructional note from doctor*
*Instructional note from the doctor should include medication dosage; time and date medication is to be administered and any special instructions.

Medication should not be transported daily to and from school. Parents should be advised to ask the pharmacist for two containers – one for home and one for school. The school may receive a written request from a parent or physician to permit a student to carry and self-administer his or her own medication. Under certain circumstances it may be necessary to do so. Such a decision will be made on a case-by-case basis and will reflect the age and maturity of the child.

• severity of health care problem, particularly asthmatic or allergic conditions
• prescribed order directing the student be allowed to carry his/her medication
• written statement from parent requesting compliance with prescribed order
• student has been instructed in the procedure for self administration and can assume this responsibility
• parent contact is made to clarify parental responsibility in monitoring the child on an ongoing basis to insure the child is carrying and taking the medication as ordered.

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The school provides every reasonable precaution to prevent injuries to all persons on school grounds. In the event of injury or illness, the nurse or other qualified personnel will call to inform parents (guardians) and decide on the best procedure to follow. If parents (guardians) cannot be reached, the school will use the emergency numbers provided and previously authorized by parents (guardians). If it is not possible to reach any of the above persons, the School Nurse and/or Principal will decide what action will be taken.

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Each student is required to have an emergency card on file at the school Office. It is important that all required information be submitted. Information must include the names and phone numbers of two persons other than the parents who, in the event a parent cannot be available, may take responsibility for the child. The school must be notified if any change in emergency information should occur.

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§ Students are to be in school by 8:00 A.M. each morning. Pre-K4 students begin at 9:00 A.M. and Pre-K3 students begin at 12:15 P.M.
§ Students are expected to show respect to one another through the exercise of common courtesy in speech and in actions.
§ Respect for all persons is expected of all students.
§ The property of the Parish Church and School is to be treated by all with respect and care. Any student who defaces any school property (desks, bathrooms, books, etc.) will be held accountable.
§ Students are expected to have and maintain school supplies, as requested by teachers.
§ Book bags are required of all students.
§ Students should have and maintain an assignment book in which to record all assignments and dates.
§ Students in Grades 4-8 will be required to purchase a special assignment book from school.
§ Gum chewing and eating candy is always prohibited in school and on school grounds.
§ Students are to use the school telephone only in emergency conditions and with the permission of their Teachers/Principal.
§ All textbooks must be covered and kept in good condition. When a book is lost, the teacher is to be notified. The student will be held responsible for lost textbooks during the year and at the close of the year.
§ Students are expected to be in full school uniform or school gym uniform, and to wear it with pride (with the exception of special non-uniform days)
§ Children are to remain seated while eating lunch. Lunchtime should lend itself to fostering lessons in socializing, good table manners and nutrition. All students must remain seated until the supervising teacher gives them directions. Unless otherwise given permission, students should “eat” only in lunchroom to aid in cleanliness issues in the classrooms.
§ At dismissal, when buses are being called, students are required to walk through the corridors. Students are to be ready when dismissal begins. Getting assignments, using the lavatory or getting a drink of water all should have been taken care of before dismissal time.

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In recognition of the seriousness of drug and alcohol problems to which the children are exposed, St.
Theresa School will follow the policy as stated below:

• if a teacher suspects that a child is under the influence of either drugs or alcohol, the matter will be referred to the principal immediately
• the principal will verify teacher observation and will notify parents who must pick up the child immediately
• should it be determined that the suspicion is accurate, parents will be expected to follow the recommendations of the school principal if the child is to continue in the school
• any student who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug, and appears at a school function in questionable condition will be barred from attending or participating in that ceremony, a party, dance, or school outing. Parents will be notified and appropriate action will be taken which may include suspension or mandatory withdrawal from the school.

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Any electronic device such as cell phones, beepers, hand-held and other personal electronic devices that may distract the student, other students, or the class as a whole during the course of the school day is prohibited.

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Parents choosing Catholic school for their children frequently cite our commitment to structure and discipline as a major reason for their investment in Catholic education. Our students are to conduct themselves at all times as examples of Christian behavior and exhibit the values of their family, the Church, and our school community. Good classroom order and a tight school structure help to insure the safety of all children, facilitate the learning for all students, and promote self-control and self-respect in the individual child.

While most parents find our approach to discipline to be very favorable, there are instances when a child breaks a rule and must suffer the consequences of his or her action. It is then that a parent may attempt to debate the fairness of the school policy or make excuses for the child’s misbehavior. The administration of this school does not engage in debates with parents about our rules and regulations, nor can it be supportive of parents who are interfering with a child’s growth in accepting personal responsibility for his or her actions. By enrolling a child in this school the parent agrees to be supportive of the rules and regulations that we deem as critical in the spiritual, academic, and behavioral growth of the child.

Teachers use a positive, progressive discipline model for students minor classroom disruptions, for not coming prepared to class, not being in the complete school uniform, for not completing assigned homework, for minor verbal disputes with other classmates, or other incidents which interfere in the teaching-learning process for the child and his or her classmates. Parents are notified of classroom problems by the teacher after the appropriate first verbal warning, and are asked to help the teacher to insure that inappropriate behavior is modified.

Teachers are not permitted to use corporal punishment on any child. Perceived acts of corporal punishment should be reported to the principal of the school immediately by students or parents.

It happens that some classroom discipline issues are referred to the administration of this school. This would include chronic minor problems listed above or major problems such as, but not limited to, chronic lateness, the verbal abuse of the teacher by a child; signs of disrespect to a teacher or another adult on the staff; fighting; physical, sexual, or verbal harassment of a fellow student; violent behavior; stealing; vandalism; or the possession of a drugs, alcohol, or a weapon. The administration handles such matters in a variety of ways depending on the severity of the incident.

The school employs a positive, progressive discipline system for minor acts of misbehavior in order to encourage students to change inappropriate behavior so that sanctions do not increase in severity. For acts such as those listed below students are often given a verbal reprimand by the principal. Repeated violation of these rules and regulations may result in parent involvement, suspension from school, or the non-re-registration of the child for the next school year.

For more serious acts of misbehavior such as fighting, stealing, vandalism, swearing at or being disrespectful to an adult in the building, and harassment, the student is immediately suspended for a period of one to five days. In cases of vandalism, the parent must pay the full cost of the repair or replacement of the item before the child may return to school. In cases of theft, the item is either returned in good condition or the cost of replacement is borne by the parent before the child can return to school.

In cases in which a child engages in a fight, which causes injury to another child or adult, the parents (and possibly law enforcement)will be notified. Likewise, the possession of drugs or alcohol by a child is reported to the police. The school reserves the right to expel such a child.

In cases in which a child brings a weapon to school, the police are summoned, and then the parents are called. The school reserves the right to expel a child for the possession of a weapon.

It is the expectation of this school that student behavior is exemplary both on and off school grounds. A student always represents his or her parents and the entire school community. Therefore, the school reserves the right to impose consequences on students for acts such as, but not necessarily limited to, fighting, vandalism, harassment or any other type of threatening or inappropriate misconduct (personally, via the telephone or the Internet) and stealing (including plagiarism). Such misconduct could result in any number of punishments including the possibility of suspension or expulsion.

Lastly, a child’s arrest for a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, at any time could result in the child’s suspension or expulsion. A child’s conviction of a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, will likely result in a child’s expulsion.

Students must accept the responsibility and the consequences of their behavior. Administration and teachers are responsible for establishing structure that is realistic, programming academic material that fits the needs and abilities of students, and encouraging academic and social responsibility. Every student has the right to learn. With that comes the responsibility of respecting the rights of others and to become actively and productively involved in his/her own education.

Behavior, which is considered most seriously incongruent with our school philosophy:
•      Violation of the uniform code
•      Repetitive tardiness
•      Failure to attend school regularly for no legitimate reason
•      Disrespect of any kind toward any person
•      Dishonesty and/or cheating/lying (and plagiarism)
•      Fighting
•      Harassment of any kind including sexual
•      Possession of firecrackers, beepers, walkmans, cell phones, game boys, palm pilots are not to be used on school grounds
•      Indecent language or gesturesg
•      Causing disruptions which take away from the learning process and/or destroy the well-being of the class
•      Deliberately damaging or stealing the property of any other person, the school and/or the Parish
•      Any behavior (verbal or physical) that threatens the physical well being of other person(s) (students, faculty, school building and grounds including non-compliance with fire drill regulations, etc.).
This includes messages written on the computers and sent via e-mail.
• The possession and/or the use of tobacco, matches or lighters, alcohol, drugs and/or toxic substance on school grounds, in the school building or on the school bus
• Possession of weapons of any kind on the school grounds, in the school building and/or on the school bus
Any behavior that flagrantly defies our school policy and goals will be treated as a serious matter with serious consequences.

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In the lunchroom students are expected to sit at assigned tables, eat lunch, engage in conversation, and clean up after themselves. After eating, students are to remain seated and wait for the teachers who will accompany them to recess or the classroom and supervise them.

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•        Students may not run in the school hallways or in the classrooms.
•        Students are encouraged to play only games that will not lead to undue roughness and which are approved by the teachers on duty. Good sportsmanship is expected.
•        Students must stay in view of the teachers on duty and may not go around the back or sides of the school building.
•        Students may not go near areas where cars are parked.
•        Students may never go into the wooded areas.
•        For safety reasons, students may not play tackle football or other tackle sports.

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Students may be detained after school or during recess for violation of the disciplinary code or failure to complete assignments. Notification that the student will be detained after school will be sent to parents at least one day prior to the detention date. It is the parent’s responsibility to arrange transportation home for students who must remain for detention after school, and to notify the teacher/administration of such arrangements.

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The following infractions will incur an automatic suspension out of school:
•       Fighting
•       Smoking
•       Threatening a student, teachers or staff or school grounds.
•       Defacing school property.
•       Accessing any inappropriate Internet sites.
•       Disrespect shown to any adult or student.
•       Disrespect shown to any adult or student.
•       Continual harassment of any student including sexual harassment.

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Expulsion is the removal of a student from the school program and transferred to another school. Expulsion would normally come after a period of probation during which time the student and parents would be aware of the consequences of subsequent violations. However, there may be situations, which deem immediate removal of a student form the school. If the serious nature of the problem warrants, expulsion may be the first punishment invoked against a pupil with the approval of the Superintendent of Schools. Possession of a weapon is cause for automatic expulsion.

In those cases where counseling is deemed necessary for the student to remain in the school setting, this may be stipulated as a requirement for the student’s re-admittance to the school.

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When a child is accepted to STS Parish School this acceptance extends for one year only. Each year, parents must re-register their child/ren for the coming school year. This is done to better prepare for the new school year. It enables us to order proper amounts of materials and also project expenses. Each year there will be a non-refundable re-registration fee; the amount will appear on the re-registration form sent to the parent. In addition to the re-registration fee there is a refundable $25.00 application fee if you withdraw your child/ren before September 1, of the following school year. A parent will not be permitted to re-register their child for the following reasons:
•       Continual disciplinary problems
•       Continual disciplinary problems
•       Lack of parental cooperation

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The purpose of homework is to reinforce and extend what students learn in class and to develop a sense of self-discipline, personal responsibility and independent thinking.

Homework is assigned each weekday evening. The following time allotments are approximate. If your child is spending considerably more or less time on his/her assignments, you should call and check with the teacher.

Assignments take on different forms; therefore, time spent on homework should include written, reading and study assignments. Students should also be spending time reading daily. Long-range assignments and reports are encouraged. These may be assigned over weekends and/or vacation times and should not be left until “the last minute” for completion. Please contact the classroom teacher if you have questions concerning assigned work.

Parental responsibility regarding homework requires that a parent: check homework daily and sign homework book; notify the teachers if the child is consistently unclear about assignments; answer questions; assist in planning time; provide necessary supplies; review assignments for neatness, accuracy, completeness; and help the child study for scheduled exams. Failure to complete all assignments in a timely manner will affect a student’s grade per semester.

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Report Cards are issued four times a year for Grades 1-8 according to the guidelines set by the Superintendent’s Office of the Archdiocese of New York. Pre-K and Kindergarten report cards are distributed twice a year. Minimum passing grade is 70%.

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The Archdiocese of New York and the NYS Education Department mandate that all schools are to give age-appropriate instruction on HIV and AIDS to all students in Grades K –12. The Archdiocesan schools use an HIV/AIDS Handbook developed and approved by the Catholic Bishops of the State of New York.

Schools under the authority of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York do not discriminate on the basis of HIV or AIDS.

Students with HIV or AIDS shall not be excluded from school by reason of infection with HIV unless the following conditions are evident as determined by the student’s physician and parents (or legal guardian), together with the school administrator and pastor. The conditions are:

•       The student is not toilet-trained or is incontinent, or unable to control drooling.
•       The student is unusually physically aggressive, with a documented history of biting or harming others.

Health curriculum will be taught by the Physical Education teacher in the 2nd and 4th marking periods.in grades 4-8. Students are assigned a grade for this subject on their report cards. Health education will be incorporated into the physical education program, and text books and workbooks are used to reinforce objectives.

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The first part of the Archdiocesan Report Card is used to mark the student’s achievement in academic subjects.
•       The achievement mark is based upon the demonstration of mastery of material covered in class such as:
1. tests/quizzes – 70%
2. class work/ participation – 10%
3. homework – 10%
4. projects/portfolios – 10%

The June grade on the report card is an average of the four previous record card grades. This grade will be recorded on the student’s permanent record card.
•       Numerical marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 1 – 8
•       Passing is any mark 70% or above for Grades 1 – 8

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The conduct/effort mark is placed under Character Development as a “Conduct Grade”. This mark indicates that the student 1) follows class and school rules, 2) shows care in the use of personal property, 3) treats teachers with respect, 4) treats other students with respect, 5) exercises self-control, 6) listens attentively, 7) uses technology appropriately.

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The Honor Roll is a special recognition for academic achievement in Grades 5-8. To achieve this distinction, the student must attain an overall average of 90% or higher. The grades of all major subjects are averaged, and no individual grade may be below 90%. In language arts only ONE grade is to be given in the main category, with check marks used in the subcategories should there be the need for improvement. For Language Arts, the weighting is fixed and is as follows: 40% Grammar, 40% Composition, 20% Spelling; Speaking/Listening only gets a check mark if improvement is needed.

In addition, the student must have earned a grade of “B” (80-89) or higher in Spanish, Art, Music and Physical Education, and Excellent or Good grade in Character Development. A Check Mark, indicating improvement needed in this section of the Report Card, will disqualify the student. In order to acknowledge the efforts of all our students in Grades 5-8 that maintain good academic records and accomplishments, and to encourage continued consistent effort; we will recognize these students during assemblies each marking period.

Honors Requirements:

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In addition to class and school exams your child will also take part in the Archdiocesan testing program, which includes the Archdiocesan religion test, annual standardized tests, and New York State Education Department assessments. These tests measure academic growth over a period of time.

§ Standardized Tests

§ Archdiocesan Tests

§ NY State Tests

The faculty of St. Theresa School reviews these test results, as well as more informal assessments regularly, in conjunction with classroom performance to facilitate grouping for reading and math.

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Parent/Teacher Conferences are held for all students in grades K-8 with the distribution of the Report Cards. Additional conference may be held at the request of the parents and/or the teachers throughout the school year. Any parent who would like to meet with a teacher should contact the teacher and set up an appointment time convenient for both parties.

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Students with learning differences are children of God and members of the Church. St. Theresa School makes every effort to meet individual student needs. Sometimes, however, a student may have needs that do not permit him or her to benefit fully from the program. In those cases your child’s teacher and/or principal may schedule a meeting with you to discuss having an evaluation of your child’s learning needs. Such evaluations can be done through the local public school district, i.e., Committees on Special Education (CSE’s), or privately. Once the results of the evaluation are available, the teacher and principal will meet with the parents to discuss the results of the evaluation and the recommendations.

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All students in Grades K through 8 must wear the school uniform. Students must have their STS sweater or sweatshirt in school during winter uniform days.

A student who is not in proper uniform must present a note from a parent/guardian to the Teacher or Principal explaining the circumstances. These occasions should be rare and short-term.

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A good personal hygiene routine should be followed daily: ears, neck, and fingernails should be given special attention. When appropriate, children should be instructed in the use of deodorant.
Uniforms should be neat and clean.

Hair should be clean and well groomed. The boys’ hair should not be below the shirt collar. Bangs should not be so long that they impede vision.

Parents will be notified if a child comes to school consistently in an unkempt manner or refuses to conform to or ignores the dress code. This will result in forfeiting the privilege of partaking in No Uniform days. If no improvement is noticed within a reasonable amount of time, an appointment with the parents will be arranged.

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• Navy blue sweat suit with St. Theresa logo
• Navy blue uniform gym shorts with St. Theresa logo
• White OR Navy blue T-shirt with St. Theresa logo
• Conservative tennis sneakers only, no specialty sneakers please
• NO JEWELRY ON GYM DAYS (for safety reasons)
Only the “STS” logo is allowed.

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Fall – (First full day in September to November)

Spring – (Last week in April to last full day in June)
• Classic Navy or Khaki Pleated Chino Pants
• Navy blue chino shorts
• Tennis sneakers – to be worn with shorts and gym uniform only
• White knit short sleeve polo shirt ***(with “Crusader” emblem) see note above OR
• White Mesh or Knit Short Sleeve Polo Shirt ***(with emblem)
• White or navy blue socks

Winter – (November to Last week in April)
• Classic Navy or Khaki Pleated Chino Pants
• White button down collar, long sleeve oxford shirt ***(with emblem)
• School Tie (Hunter/Classic Navy plaid)
• Navy blue V-Cardigan or Crewneck Sweater with school emblem
• White or navy blue socks

Girls

Fall – (Opening Day to November)

Spring – (Last week in April to last full day in June)
K-5:
• Navy Blue Chino Skort, knee length
• White Mesh or knit short sleeve polo shirt ***with school emblem
• White tennis sneakers (i.e. keds)/sensible shoes
• White or navy blue socks

Winter – (November to Last week in April)
K-5:
• Navy pleated jumper, knee length ***(with emblem)
• White long sleeve blouse with Peter Pan collar
• Navy blue button-down cardigan or crew neck sweater with school emblem
• White or navy blue socks or tights
6-8:
• Navy pleated skirt, knee length
• White long sleeved oxford blouse ***(with Crusader logo)
• Navy blue button-down Cardigan or crewneck sweater with school emblem
• White or navy blue tights or leggings ***(leggings will not be part of the uniform next year)

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Low-heeled, sensible shoes with rubber soles for safety are a must. Decorations, platforms, and chunky heeled shoes or high-heels are not permitted. Boots are not to be worn during regular school hours. Students who wear boots to school must bring school shoes to change into when they arrive at school. Sneakers, as indicated above, are OPTIONAL in the spring and fall. Sandals are not permitted.

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• Neat jeans may be worn (no baggy jeans or very tight jeans may be worn)
• Plain T-shirts, with no logos or writing on them
• No see-through clothing
• No midriff or halter tops
• No clothing deemed inappropriate
• No mini skirts
• Clothing should be neat and clean

Administration and Faculty maintain the right and responsibility to deem clothing inappropriate. Students who come to school inappropriately dressed will have to call home to request their uniforms are brought to school. In addition, they will forfeit the privilege of partaking in future no-uniform days.

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§ Students must keep jewelry worn to school to a minimum. Boys MAY NOT wear earrings. In the interest of safety, girls’ earrings are to be small and unobtrusive, and no multiple ear piercings.

§ Girls may wear leggings on cold winter days. They may also wear long pants to school, but pants must be removed during the school day and put back on during the last period of the day. ***(leggings will not be part of the uniform next year)

§ No outlandish hairstyles are allowed. Boys may not have long hair. Students may not come to school with shaved heads, Mohawks, dyed hair or symbols shaved into their hair.

§ Make-up is not permitted.

§ Facial hair must be shaved. Boys are not allowed to grow beards or moustaches.

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Parents are expected to fulfill their obligation with regard to tuition and all required fees set forth by the Parish Finance Committee in conjunction with the Pastor and the Principal.

No child should ever have to leave St. Theresa School due to a bona fide financial reason. If an unexpected or sudden financial or personal change in a family should affect the ability to pay tuition or fees, parents should contact the Pastor, the Principal and/or the Tuition Committee to set an appointment to discuss and decide whether any assistance may be available for the family’s particular circumstances. There are scholarships and tuition assistance for families in need.

If families do not keep up with their payments and, in addition, neglect to contact the Tuition Committee to explain, students will not receive Report Cards nor will records be forwarded until the financial status is cleared.

All families must support all Fund Raising projects sponsored by the Home School Association in order to be successful in meeting its mandated financial goal. We further encourage full support of all parish-wide fund raising efforts.

In addition, there will be a fee charged for any checks that are returned for insufficient funds. Parents will be requested to resubmit the original amount plus the bank fee in cash.

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The responsibility of educating a child begins in the home. We at St. Theresa’s recognize and greatly respect and appreciate the many sacrifices parents make to provide a Catholic education for their children. Parents are asked to take an active role in their child’s education by:

• Assisting their child in his/her academic and moral development by carefully reviewing class work, test results, progress reports, and report cards; supervising home study; and reinforcing school policies.

• Explaining and reviewing periodically the school behavior code with their child. Parents should discuss school disciplinary episodes in relation to the school behavior code.

• Recognizing their child’s talents and interests so they may be developed in cooperation with the classroom teachers.

• Seeing that the dress code, including gym uniform, is enforced, and insisting that children dress according to Christian virtue.

• Insisting on their child’s regular school attendance and punctuality and on complying with attendance rules and procedures.
• Making all tuition and fee payments on time, and participating in fund-raising activities.
• Providing proper supervision at home, and not tolerating harassment, inappropriate or violent behavior, or viewing of such in videos, movies, song lyrics, and on the Internet.
• Teaching their child respect for law, for authority, for the rights of others, and for public and private property. This includes showing respect for the work of others by not tolerating cheating or plagiarism in any circumstance.

• Arranging for a time and place for their child to complete homework assignments.
• Working with the school in a cooperative effort to carry out recommendations made in the best interest of their child, including those related to educational evaluations and counseling.
• Attending all Parent-Teacher Conferences and Home-School Association meetings.
• By always interacting in a respectful manner when speaking with or about the administration, teachers and staff of the school. Verbal abuse or physical harassment may result in your child being required to withdraw from the school immediately or not being allowed to re-register for the following year.

The education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school. Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.

A parent may request a meeting with a teacher at any time by simply sending a note to the teacher in question and the teacher will arrange for this meeting outside class time at a mutually convenient time. The meeting should take place in the classroom or someplace that insures privacy, never in the hallway, in the parking lot, or on the street. A parent who is refused such a meeting should notify the principal.

Because parents are the first teachers of their children, and our school strives to be a faith community, the importance of parental cooperation and support for the school program cannot be understated. It is by their example as adults and parents that children learn to be respectful of authority. Ideally, parent conduct will adhere to school procedures and demonstrate acceptable behavior at all times in dealing with school administration, faculty and staff. The following is unacceptable conduct by parents:

• Assaulting any staff member
• Making threats upon any staff member
• Verbally abusing any staff member
• Harassing any staff member or any other parent(s) or student(s)
• Engaging in any behavior related to the above

Parents exhibiting such conduct could lead to a request by the principal, in consultation with the Pastor, that the family withdraws from the school. The first episode of such conduct will lead to a warning to the family. If there are subsequent episodes, documentation will be submitted to the district superintendent for review before the family is asked to leave the school.

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Release of Copies of report cards, school notices, etc will be handled accordingly.

In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide a non-custodial parent with access to academic records and other school information regarding your child. If there is a court order specifying that this should not happen, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a copy of
the court order.

Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such parents might be told to supply the teacher with self-addressed.

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St. Theresa School is blessed with a very active Home-School Association. This organization provides many activities for the school community throughout the year. Supporting the Association with your time and talents is essential to being a member of the school community.

This year, our goal is to raise the necessary funds to supplement the generous subsidy we receive from our parish, as well as target areas that may need attention: for example, modernizing our science lab or updating the technology in the school. We need each and every family to do its share toward fulfilling this goal.

We appreciate all our volunteers who serve in many important roles at St. Theresa School. Each year parents are required to support the many activities planned.
We would not be able to survive without you. Many thanks!

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Photo/Video Release Form for 2011-2012 School Year

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

I hereby give permission for my son/daughter _________________________________ to be photographed or videotaped at St. Theresa School. I realize that the photo may be published in the newspaper, a magazine, or other publication. The video may be used for educational or informational purposes regarding the programs or curriculum at St. Theresa School.

Signed _____________________

Date _______________________

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Student Expectations in Use of the Internet

The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use or violation of any of the following standards will result in serious consequences and could result in expulsion from the school.

1. Use of the computer at school is limited to school related activities. Internet users are expected to behave responsibly in accessing and viewing information that is pertinent to the mission of the
school.

2. Vandalism and other infractions of school policy while using the Internet will result in immediate cancellation of privileges along with disciplinary action.

3. After School/Home Access requires students to follow the same student expectations as stated in the “Discipline Code for Student Conduct” and “Harassment Policies” in the student handbook.

4. Students must abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette both inside and outside school.

5. Students are responsible for their explorations on the Internet and are subject to the consequences of the school’s discipline policy.

6. Students must sign a contract indicating their understanding and acceptance of the school’s guidelines (see parent/student handbook).

7. Parents must give their permission for their child to use the Internet for educational purposes as an individual by signing the Contract Form once conditions are clearly understood. Parents also have the option of denying permission for their child to use the Internet independently at school.

Standards of Behavior

○ Be courteous and respectful in your messages to others.
○ Use appropriate language. Do not use vulgar, harassing, obscene, threatening, bullying, abusive, or sexually offensive language, or make any statements that are slanderous or disparaging of any students or adults.
○ Never visit inappropriate or offensive websites.
○ Never download materials from inappropriate or offensive websites.
○ Never expose yourself in an inappropriate, vulgar, or sexually offensive manner on any website or via e-mail, either in pictures or videos.
○ Illegal activities are strictly forbidden.
○ Do not reveal your home address or phone number, or that of other students or staff.
○ Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
○ Proofread your message before you send it.
○ Never agree to get together with someone you “meet” on-line.
○ Only public domain software (“shareware”) can be downloaded.
○ Copyright laws must be respected. Do not make-unauthorized copies of software and do not give, lend, or sell copies of software to others.
○ Do not use the Network/Internet for illegal activities.
○ Software applications, games, or CD-ROMS from home may not be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate school personnel.
○ Do not reveal personal passwords, use or try to learn others’ passwords. Do not copy, change, read or use another user’s files without prior permission from that user. Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment.
○ Do not post personal messages on bulletin boards or “list servers.” Send personal messages directly to the person to whom you want to write.
○ Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the use of the network for other users.
○ Do not waste or take supplies such as paper, printer cartridges, and diskettes that are provided by the school.
○ Talk softly and work in ways that will not disturb other users. Keep computer work areas clean and do not eat or drink in the computer lab.
○ If students encounter material on a network/bulletin board that is not appropriate (vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.,) the student is responsible for not pursuing this material and reporting the matter to appropriate school personnel.
○ The use of cell phones, camera phones or other digital media is prohibited during the school day. Cell phones, camera phones, or other personal electronic devices will be confiscated if students use them during the school day without permission. In addition, any student who uses a camera, camera phone or other personal electronic devices in school or in the classroom for any reason will be suspended. Further disciplinary measures including expulsion, will be considered depending on the nature of the camera, camera phone, or personal electronic device use.
○ Technology Use outside normal academic hours and/or off school grounds (including but not limited to cell phones, e-mail, text messages, camera-phones, cameras, personal digital assistants (PDA’s), chat lines, bulletin boards, etc., are subject
to the same guidelines as previously cited in the “Discipline Code for Student Conduct,” “Harassment Policies,” and the “Summary Statement.
○ The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific privileges. Violation of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.
○ Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or
obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

Student Name: _______________________________ Grade _____

Student Signature: _____________________________ Date ______

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Technology Use Agreement for 2011-2012 School Year

for St Theresa School

adapted from NCEA’s From the Chalkboard to the Chatroom . . . 1997

User

I understand and will abide by the technology use agreement. I further understand that any violation of these regulations is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action initiated.
 

User’s name (please print): ________________________________________________
 

User Signature: ______________________________ Date: _____________________
 

Parent/Guardian

As the parent of this student, I have read the technology use agreement. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. I am aware that it is impossible for the school to restrict access to all controversial materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired in use. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use of school’s technology resources is not in a school setting. I hereby give permission for my child to use the school’s technology resources and certify that I have reviewed this information with my child.

Parent’s or guardian’s name (please print): ___________________________________
 

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______________________________ Date:____________

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Once students have met the necessary admission requirements and have been accepted in St. Theresa School, the school warmly welcomes these students for the coming school year and will strive to provide them with a solid Catholic spiritual and academic education in a supportive learning environment. Students and parents must always be mindful that attendance at St.Theresa School is by invitation. It is not a “right” because this is a private school. Admission to and continued enrollment in this school include responsibilities regarding conduct, both inside and outside the classroom and school and students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a credit both to themselves and to their school.

In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline and character, St. Theresa School reserves the right and students and parents or guardians concede to the school the right to require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient in the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. By their signatures on the Parent Signature Page contained in this handbook and the student’s attendance at the school, a student and his or her parents or guardians acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this handbook and agree to be bound by the terms of this handbook.

Students attending St.Theresa School relinquish certain rights they might otherwise be entitled to if they were attending a public school. For example, a student’s freedom of speech is limited in many important respects here at our school. Speech, either written or oral, contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, the teachings of the church or the directives of the local Bishop or Ordinary is prohibited, as is any other speech which is contrary or disruptive to the philosophy and purposes of our school. Another important right all students at St. Theresa School surrender involves searches and seizures. School administrators may search a student’s person and belongings if there is a reasonable belief, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances or inappropriate objects are being concealed. Any unauthorized items found may be seized. Additionally, student desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and the student to whom the desk or locker has been assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all. Students should have absolutely no expectation of privacy with regard to any item in their desks or lockers.

Another important right that a student and his or her parents or guardians give up when they decide to have a student attend this school is the right to sue the school, the parish or the Archdiocese of New York, and/or any individuals acting on behalf of the school, such as the school administrators, teachers, staff or any of their agents for any matter relating to academic or disciplinary decisions or other matters covered within this handbook. Each student and his or her parents or guardians, by their acceptance of enrollment at St. Theresa School agree to and accept the school’s rule and policy that students, parents and guardians may not bring any civil action in any local, state or federal court or in any administrative agency or body to challenge any school decision on academic or disciplinary matters, including any
decision relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered within this handbook. Students and parents or guardians agree that any challenge to any school academic or disciplinary action or relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered in this handbook may only be challenged or appealed within the hierarchy of the school, subject to the limitations contained in this handbook. This includes any decision relating to a student’s enrollment at the school or termination of that enrollment.

While any student and his or her parents or guardians are of course free to consult with legal counsel regarding any school decision taken with respect to a student, the school emphasizes that students and parents or guardians are not permitted to have legal counsel present during any meetings with school administrators. School administrators are not obligated to meet with legal counsel at any time.

There are several grounds for disciplinary action or expulsion set forth in the “Discipline Codes” section of this handbook. It should be noted, however, that any listing of prohibited conduct is set forth by way of example only and to provide guidance to the student and his or her parents or guardians. It is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of improper conduct or resultant disciplinary action.

Addendum

Student Expectations in Use of the Internet

The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use or violation of any of the following standards will result in serious consequences and could result in expulsion from the school.

Use of the computer at school is limited to school related activities. Internet users are expected to behave responsibly in accessing and viewing information that is pertinent to the mission of the school.

Vandalism and other infractions of school policy while using the Internet will result in immediate cancellation of privileges along with disciplinary action.

After School/Home Access requires students to follow the same student expectations as stated in the “Discipline Code for Student Conduct” and “Harassment Policies” in the student handbook.

Students must abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include but are not limited to the following:

Standards of Behavior

○ Be courteous and respectful in your messages to others.
○ Use appropriate language. Do not use vulgar, harassing, obscene, threatening, abusive, or sexually offensive language, or make any statements that are slanderous or disparaging of any students or adults.
○ Illegal activities are strictly forbidden.
○ Do not reveal your home address or phone number, or that of other students or staff.
○ Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the s system do have access to all mail. Messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
○ Proofread your message before you send it.
○ Never agree to get together with someone you “meet” on-line.
○ Only public domain software (“shareware”) can be downloaded.
○ Copyright laws must be respected. Do not make-unauthorized copies of software and do not give, lend, or sell copies of software to others.
○ Software applications, games, or CD-ROMS from home may not be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate school
personnel.
○ Do not reveal personal passwords or try to learn others’ passwords. Do not copy, change, read or use files from another user without prior permission from that user. Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment.
○ Do not post personal messages on bulleting boards or “list servers”. Send personal messages directly to the person to whom you want to write.
○ Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the use of the network for other users.

○ Do not waste or take supplies such as paper, printer cartridges, and diskettes that are provided by the school.

○ Talk softly and work in ways that will not disturb other users. Keep computer work areas clean and do not eat or drink in the computer lab.

○ If students encounter material on a network/bulletin board that is not appropriate (vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.,) the
student is responsible for not pursuing this material and reporting the matter to appropriate school personnel.

○ The use of cell phones, camera phones or other digital media is prohibited during the school day. Cell phones, camera phones, or other personal electronic devices will be confiscated if students use them during the school day without permission. In addition, any students who use a camera, camera phone or other personal electronic devices in school or in the classroom for any reason will be suspended. Further disciplinary measures including expulsion will be considered depending on the nature of the camera, camera phone, or personal electronic device use.

○ Technology Use (including but not limited to cell phones, e-mail, text messages, camera-phones, cameras, personal digital assistants (pda’s), chat lines, bulletin
boards, etc., outside normal academic hours and/or off school grounds are subject to the same guidelines as previously cited in the “Discipline Code for Student
Conduct”,” Harassment Policies” and the “Summary Statement”.

○ The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend
specific privileges. Violation of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.

○ Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

Student Name: _______________________________ Grade _____

Student Signature _____________________________ Date _____

After reading and discussing the PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK with your child/children, please sign the statement below, and all the other paperwork to be returned to school, by printing them out, and sending them back to the school Office. Thank you for your cooperation.

We have received and read the St. Theresa School Parent/Student Handbook. We have discussed the contents with our child/children. We agree to cooperate and abide by the rules and regulations set forth.

Parent(s) Signature

Student(s) Name

Student(s) Grade(s)
_______________________
Date

MEDIA AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE

I hereby consent to the taking of photographs, movies, videos, and images capable of reproduction in any medium of me or my child/children or child/children of whom I am the designated guardian ...

Names of Child/Children, Parent or Guardian

... by my child's/children's school, the Department of Education, Archdiocese of New York and its parents, affiliates, trustees, directors, members, officers, employees, volunteers, agents, contractors and Saint Theresa School.

I hereby grant to School the right to edit, reproduce, use and reuse images for any and all purposes including, but not limited to, advertising, promotion and display, and I hereby consent to the editing, reproduction, use and re-use of said images in any and all media in existence and all media not yet in existence including, but not limited to, video, print, television, Internet, and podcasts. I forever grant, assign, and transfer to School any right, title and interest that I and/or my child/children
may have in any images, including negatives, taken of me and/or my child/children by School. I hereby agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless School from any and all claims, demands, actions or causes of actions, loss, liability, damage or cost arising from this authorization.

Name of Child/Print Name Children  ________________________________________________________________________________


Signature Signature of Parent or Guardian __________________________________________________________________________________

Date _________________________________________
 

Signed Forms Due By September 25th

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