HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS
501 Garfield Street • East Rochester • New York • 14445
(585) 348-9401
www.johnboscoschools.org
The National Association of Private Catholic Independent Schools
accredited November 2011
Handbook for Parents and Students
The St. John Bosco Schools Rosary Society is presently recruiting
new members. Our goal is to reach 1000 members as soon as may
be. The SJBS Rosary Society requires nothing more than your
commitment to pray 1 decade of the Rosary each day for St. John
Bosco Schools. To join, simply send an email to our Board
Chairman, A. Joseph Indelicato, at aji@caritasconsulting.org.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit, Beloved of my soul, I adore you. Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me,
console me. Tell me what I should say and do. Give me your orders. I promise to
submit myself to all that you desire of me, and to accept all that you permit to
happen to me. Let me only know your will.
Prayer to St. John Bosco
O glorious Saint John Bosco, who in order to lead young people to the feet of the
divine Master and to mold them in the light of faith and Christian morality did
heroically sacrifice yourself to the very end of your life and did set up a proper
religious Institute destined to endure and to bring to the farthest boundaries of the
earth your glorious work, obtain also for us from Our Lord a holy love for young
people who are exposed to so many seductions in order that we may generously
spend ourselves in supporting them against the snares of the devil, in keeping them
safe from the dangers of the world, and in guiding them, pure and holy, in the path
that leads to God. Amen.
From the Second Vatican Council’s Declaration on Christian Education
“The Council also reminds Catholic parents of the duty of entrusting their children to
Catholic schools wherever and whenever it is possible and of supporting these schools to
the best of their ability and of cooperating with them for the education of their children.”
(§ 8)
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Table of Contents
ABOUT ST JOHN BOSCO SCHOOLS
Mission Statement
5
Parents as the Primary Educators of their Children
5
St. John Bosco Schools Educational Principles
6
Administration
7
ADMISSION, ENROLLMENT, AND TUITION
Admission Policies
8
Re-Enrollment Policies
9
Family Information Card
9
ACADEMIC INFORMATION AND POLICIES
Prayer in School
10
Homework
10
Promotion Policy
10
Academic Review
10
Sports and extra -curricular activities
11
Parent-Teacher Conferences
11
Textbooks
11
Library
11
Internet Policy
11
Field Trips
12
Permanent Records
13
ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY
School Hours
14
Extended Day Program
14
Attendance Policies
15
Punctuality
16
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Handbook for Parents and Students
PERSONAL APPEARANCE AND UNIFORMS
Personal Appearance
17
Uniforms
18
DISCIPLINE AND COMPORTMENT
Code of Honor
20
The Salesian Way
20
Communication
21
Discipline
21
Consequences
22
Prohibited Items at School
21
Harassment-Free Environment
23
OTHER INFORMATION AND POLICIES
Deliveries or Messages for Students
24
Visitors
24
Parent Observation
24
Medication Policy
24
Health Items
25
Lunch
26
Recess
26
Snowy Weather / Snow Days
26
Classroom Parties
26
Lost and Found Articles
27
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Handbook for Parents and Students
About St. John Bosco Schools
Grades:
PreK through 8th Grade
Hours of Operation:
8:10 to 3:20 (incl. drop-off and pick-up), Mon. through Fri.
Location:
501 Garfield Street, East Rochester, NY 14445
St. John Bosco Schools Mission
The mission of St. John Bosco Schools is to support parents in their God-given role as the
primary educators of their children by cultivating the whole person--mind, body and soul-uniting spiritual life with work, study and play.
Parents as the Primary Educators of their Children
The Church is very clear that parents are the primary educators of their children; the
educational approach, policies and procedures outlined in this handbook are designed to
support them in their task. The Catholic school does not usurp the role of parents, but
provides them with specific help: the training of the child’s intellect and memory, and the
imparting of knowledge. The following excerpts are from the Compendium of the Social
Doctrine of the Church:
238.
The family has a completely original and irreplaceable role in raising children. The
parents' love, placing itself at the service of children to draw forth from them (“educere”) the best that is in them, finds its fullest expression precisely in the task of
educating . . . The right and duty of parents to educate their children is “essential,
since it is connected with the transmission of human life; it is original and primary with
regard to the educational role of others, on account of the uniqueness of the loving
relationship between parents and children . . .
239.
Parents are the first educators, not the only educators, of their children. It belongs to
them, therefore, to exercise with responsibility their educational activity in close and
vigilant cooperation with civil and ecclesial agencies
240.
Parents have the right to found and support educational institutions . . .
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Handbook for Parents and Students
St. John Bosco Schools Educational Principles
To fulfill our mission of educating the whole person, we realized that we have to have solid
and clear answers to the following three questions:
1. Whom are we educating?
We are educating a human person, made in the image and likeness of God, to know, love and
serve Him in this world and the next. The person is an integrated being: body and soul, intellect
and will.
2. What are we educating in the student?
At Saint John Bosco we know that the mind must be trained to recognize the truth. We also
recognize the will must be trained in order to follow the beauty, goodness and truth that has
been perceived. “As long as doing what we will does not mean doing His will, we simply will not
see the fact of God’s existence and presence.”
3. How do we educate the student?
With Love.
Pope John Paul II on St. John Bosco’s Preventive System (Reason, Religion and Kindness): “This
pedagogical method supposes in the educator the conviction that in every young person, no
matter how far he may seem to be from the straight and narrow, there are hidden sources of
good which if properly stimulated can lead to an option for faith and honesty.”
Additionally, we approach the learning process as a gymnastic rather than a transaction, and
consider our faculty to be providing formation rather than merely information. The information
acquired by the student should become part of who he is, therefore, he must be an active
participant in the process.
Lastly, with Dr. John Senior, we recognize the formative role of a culture deeply committed to
the truths of the Catholic faith. “Culture, as in agriculture, is the cultivation of the soil from
which men grow . . . The function of the garden of souls is to cultivate not only the great,
publicly canonized saints, but the hidden life of sanctity in everyone according to his gifts . . .
This is not to study or to teach just another subject in the curriculum, but to place God where He
is, at the beginning and end of every work, and to live in Him, reminded of Him all day long . . .”
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Administration
THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS In addition to assisting with budgeting issues, is responsible for the
employment of a Headmaster to implement policies and oversee the day to day operations of
the School. Additional duties of the Board include: the spiritual and academic integrity of the
school; preserving the philosophy and mission of the school; developing policy in the essential
areas of staffing, admissions, curriculum and discipline; devising long-range strategies and
development programs that will meet the educational and financial needs of the school.
THE HEADMASTER is the delegated administrator of the school, and is responsible for the
supervision of all instruction, curriculum development, implementation of school policies and
rules, and also for the professional development of the faculty and staff.
THE FACULTY consists of professional teachers who are qualified to teach in a NAPC*IS
accredited Catholic school, who willingly conform to the teachings of the Roman Catholic
Church, and who are dedicated to the principles of Catholic education.
THE STAFF consists of individuals, both paid and volunteer, who assist the Headmaster and
faculty in the carrying out of their duties as Catholic educators, and who help with practical
requirements for the day-to-day operation of the school.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Admission, Enrollment, and Tuition
Admission Policies
St. John Bosco Schools admit students of any race, gender, or national origin.
Minimum Age Requirements: These minimum age requirements are as follows:
1. For admission to Pre-Kindergarten, the student must be four (4) years of age on or
before September 1st of that year. At the discretion of the Headmaster, the school will
make exceptions for children at three (3) years of age who demonstrate exceptional
maturity.
2. For admission to Kindergarten, the student must be five (5) years of age on or before
September 1st of that year. At the discretion of the Headmaster, the school will make
exceptions for children at four (4) years of age who demonstrate exceptional maturity.
3. For admission to 1st Grade, the student must be six (6) years of age on or before
September 1st of that year.
Required Documents: The following documents must be completed and on file in the school
office:
1. Registration form with registration fee
2.
Birth certificate (copy)
3.
Baptismal certificate (copy)
4.
Records from previous school (if applicable) for two years, including report cards.
5.
Student Immunization & Health Form
6.
Family Information Card
7.
Handbook for Parents and Students Pledge Form
Family Interview: An interview between the parents or guardians and the Headmaster is required
before the admission process can be completed.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Provisional Admission: Admission is not guaranteed for provisionally admitted students.
Admission of a new student is provisional until:
1.
All admission requirements have been met in full
2.
All records are received from any previous school attended
3.
All application, examination, and enrollment fees are paid in full
Probationary Admission: All students who transfer from another school during the school year
are automatically placed on probation for a nine-week period. Students may be admitted on
behavioral probation for a full year if records indicate the need.
Re-enrollment Policies
Required Documents: The following documents must be filled out at the beginning of each
school year:
1.
Family Information Card
2.
Student Immunization & Health Form
3.
Handbook for Parents and Students Pledge Form
It is essential that parents update these forms whenever a change of information takes place.
Provisional Enrollment: Enrollment is not guaranteed for provisionally enrolled students.
Enrollment of students who wish to return is provisional until:
1.
All outstanding tuition and fees are paid in full.
2.
The enrollment fee is paid in full (on or before the respective due dates).
Family Information Card
A family information card for students must be filled out at the beginning of each school year.
This card must be updated whenever a parent’s contact number or address has changed. This
card will be used to contact the parents or approved guardians in case of an emergency or in
case of an academic or a disciplinary matter. Divorced parents are strongly encouraged to
furnish the school with a copy of the custody section of the divorce decree so that the school
can determine when, if ever, the child can be released to the non-custodial parent.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Academic Information and Policies
Prayer in School
Daily prayer is an integral part of our religious training at St. John Bosco Schools. Each student
will receive a copy of The St. John Bosco Schools Handbook of Prayer. Prayers are said in
assembly at the beginning of the day, in the classroom at the start of each class, at weekly Mass,
throughout the day, and at dismissal. Students will be required to master prayers that are
appropriate to their grade level of understanding, as directed by their teachers.
Homework
Assignment Books: Students from grade 1-8 are issued an assignment book, and expected to
record their own assignments. Teachers will use the assignment to communicate with parents
regarding missing homework, etc. Parents should review this assignment book each day to
keep the student on track and up to date. At the end of each week, graded work will be sent
home for parents’ review. Teachers may require work to be corrected.
In general, homework should take between 10 and 15 minutes per grade level. This, of course, is
a very loose average. Every student is different and will take a different amount of time to
complete his task.
Promotion Policy
St. John Bosco Schools promotes students to the next grade level based on their academic
achievement, and not simply for social reasons.
Academic Review
At the end of any nine-week period, a student who has received a grade below a 70 in any core
subject (Math, Religion, ELA), or below a 70 in a non-core subject, is subject to academic review.
A parent conference may be arranged to establish a recommended tutoring program for the
student in those core subjects which are below average. Students who fail to meet the
minimum requirements at the end of the next nine week period may be asked to repeat the
grade so that the skill taught there may be mastered.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Sports and Extra-curricular Activities
Every sport and extra-curricular activity is a privilege for the student and is secondary to his
academic work. Any student who is not maintaining a 75 in a core subject or a 70 in a non-core
subject in the current marking period will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular
activities for two weeks, when the grades will be reviewed again.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
At least one parent or guardian must attend the Parent-Teacher Conference in early November.
Additional parent-teacher conferences may be arranged by setting an appointment with the
teacher.
Textbooks
It is the responsibility of individual students to take proper care of all textbooks issued to them.
Replacement Costs: Students will be charged for the full replacement cost for lost or damaged
textbooks, plus an administrative fee for ordering and processing the new book.
Library
The Library is an essential part of St. John Bosco Schools, and new books are added on a regular
basis. Children will be allowed to check out books during their scheduled Library class period. It
is the child’s responsibility to be aware of the return book date. Students will be responsible for
the replacement cost of lost or damaged books, plus an administrative fee. Final report cards
and school records will be held until all fines have been satisfied.
The Library catalog is online at the link:
http://sjbs.dyndns.info
The login is the student's first name.last name (all lowercase with nospaces), for example:
joe.jones
The default password is: SJBS (all uppercase) The password can be changed under the student's account.
Internet Policy
Use of the internet and related technologies on the school premises occurs only rarely and
always in a supervised setting.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Field Trips
The student must have a signed and dated release form (permission slip) from his parents for
each trip; otherwise he will not be allowed to leave the school campus. There will be no phone
calls home on the day of the trip to get permission for the trip.
Unless the school specifically approves a trip, the school will not be held liable; nor may the
school’s name be used in conjunction with the trip. Non school-approved trips that involve
students will not be promoted or organized within the school.
Car seats and booster seats - New York State law about car seat/booster seats can be found at:
http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/broch/c-1.htm
“Every child under age 16 in the vehicle must use a safety restraint. If under age four, he or she
must be properly secured in a federally-approved child safety seat that is attached to a vehicle
by a safety belt or universal child restraint anchorage (LATCH) system. A child under age four
who weighs more than 40 pounds may be restrained in a booster seat with a lap and shoulder
belt. A child of age 4, 5, 6 or 7, must use a booster seat with lap and shoulder belt or a child
safety seat (The child and safety restraint system must meet the height and weight
recommendations of the restraint manufacturer.)
“Exception: A child more than four feet nine inches tall or more than 100 pounds is allowed to
use a seat belt that has both a lap belt and a shoulder harness. To use the seat belt, the child
must be able to sit straight up against the vehicle's seat back with his or her knees bent
comfortably over the edge of the seat. The lap belt should be placed low and tight across the
upper thighs; the shoulder belt should rest tightly but comfortably across the child's chest and
shoulder (collar bone) without touching the throat. If the seat belt does not fit properly, the
child should use a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt.
“A booster seat can be used only with a lap and shoulder belt together. If all the combination
lap and shoulder belt positions in the vehicle are already occupied by children using child safety
seats or booster seats, a child who ordinarily would use a booster seat should be restrained
using only the lap belt.
“An appropriate child safety restraint system:




Is required for all children until their 8th birthday and,
Must meet the size and weight requirements for the child based on the Federal
requirements and the recommendations of the manufacturer, and
Can be a child safety seat, a harness, a vest or a booster seat attached with the vehicle seat
belt or latch system, but not the vehicle seat belt alone, and
Should not be used in the front seat of the vehicle.
“If the child is eight years old and is under 4'9" tall or weighs less than 100 lbs, it is recommended
that you continue to use a child restraint system.”
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Permanent Records
A permanent record is maintained for each student. The school will retain original permanent
records when a student transfers or graduates. A copy of the Permanent Record and the
original Health Records will be released to a receiving school when that school applies directly
by mail or fax to the sending school on school letterhead. Records will be released when all
outstanding financial debt owed the school is satisfied. The official permanent file and original
Health Record may not be released to any individual, except in the circumstances of individuals
moving out of the country, for which documentation must be provided.
All information in a student’s file shall be treated as confidential and shall be accessible only to
the Headmaster, professional staff, the legal guardian, the parents, and to the student after his
eighteenth birthday. The school requires twenty-four hours notice and a request in writing, if a
parent or student wishes to view a record or receive a copy. Please contact the school office for
further information. A non-custodial parent may also have the right of access to the student’s
educational records. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide the
non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related
information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is no information
to be given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with a copy of
the court order at registration.
A health file is maintained on each student that will include a record of immunizations, vision
and hearing screenings, pertinent medical information, and doctor’s name. Health records are
confidential; they are only available to the Headmaster, health coordinator, and the professional
staff. The student’s original health record is part of the student’s official records. A copy of the
health file is kept as part of the permanent record at the school.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Attendance and Punctuality
School Hours
Drop-off

Parents may drop-off students beginning at 8:10

Students report to the gym between 8:10-8:20

Students not present at 8:30 for Morning Prayer will be considered tardy and must check
in at the office.
Lunch Schedule

11:30-11:55 – K-3 Recess / 4-8 Lunch

11:55-12:20 – K-3 Lunch / 4-8 Recess

Grade levels may be grouped differently throughout the year.
Dismissal

3:00-3:10 – Bus pick-up on Garfield Street

3:00-3:10 – Car Rider pick-up on West Avenue
Extended Day Program
As a service to our families, St. John Bosco Schools will offer an Extended Day Program again
this year. After-school Care will operate from 3:00 PM to 5:20 PM. Please contact the office if
you are interested in this program.
Note: on days with a noon (12 PM) dismissal, we will make the Extended Day Program available
for an additional fee per day per child for registered families.
All students on campus after pickup, except for those who are directly supervised by their own
parent or by an adult sponsor of an extracurricular activity, must report to the Extended Day
Program.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Attendance Policies
Notification of Absence: Whenever a student is absent from school, the parents are requested to
report the absence to the school office by 9:00 a.m. on each day of absence. The school office
will attempt to verify an absence by contacting one of the parents or guardians at home or at
work.
General Absence Policy: Upon returning to school, a student who has been absent must bring a
statement, signed by a parent or guardian, to the school office explaining the reason for the
absence.
Excused Absences: A student may have an excused absence for a personal illness, sickness or
death in the family, quarantine, an authorized school function, an appointment with a physician,
or a natural disaster. In addition, the Headmaster may grant one educational experience per
year as an excused absence. The Headmaster’s decision in these matters is final.
Unexcused Absences: Any absence that does not meet the criteria for an excused absence is
considered to be an unexcused absence.
Planned Absences: Any request for a planned absence must be received in written form in the
office at least five days prior to the absence. If requested, teachers may choose to provide
assignments before the absence, or they may choose to provide a list of assigned work when
the student returns. The student (parent) is responsible for personally obtaining the missed
work. The student is responsible for completing the work according to the teacher’s direction.
Early Departure: Students who need to be picked up for early departure and for appointments
must inform the teacher(s) in advance and must be picked up at the school office. A parent or
guardian must sign them out before they will be allowed to leave. Parents and students are
responsible for the work missed.
Make Up Homework and Tests for Excused Absences: When a student is absent for an excused
reason, a parent may request through the school office that all of his class assignments and
homework be available for pickup by the end of the day in the school office. Students will be
allowed time, determined by the teacher(s) to make up work and tests missed due to an
excused absence. Usually one day is allowed for each excused day missed. However, if a longterm assignment was due prior to the student’s absence, the assignment will be due on the first
day that he returns to school. The teacher will keep up with make-up work to give the student
on his return. A student who fails to complete the work will receive zeroes for these
assignments.
Make Up Homework and Tests for Unexcused Absences: When a student returns from an
unexcused absence, he will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to make up work and tests
missed. Work must be done at home; tests will be made up after school or during lunch and
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Handbook for Parents and Students
recess. The teacher is unable to take time from the normal day to re-teach the material.
However, students in Grade 5 or higher are only eligible to receive half credit for their work. A
student who fails to complete make up work or take make up tests within the time specified by
the teacher will receive zeroes for these assignments or tests.
Punctuality
General Policy: All students are expected to be punctual to school. A student is punctual when
he is sitting at his desk and prepared to start class at the beginning of the school day. Any
student who arrives after 8:30 will be marked tardy and must report to the school office.
Afternoon Arrival: Students who arrive after noon are also required to report to the school
office, but will be marked as absent for half of the day. A parent or guardian is required to sign
in a student who arrives after noon.
Excessive Tardiness: Student tardiness is a disruption to an entire class of students. It interferes
with teaching; it interferes with prayer. Excessive tardiness shows a lack of consideration for
others. Please make every effort to promote the mission of St. John Bosco School by bringing
your child to school on time.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Personal Appearance and Uniforms
Purpose: Maintaining a neat, clean, and modest personal appearance and observing proper
hygiene serves two purposes. First, looking prepared and feeling prepared are helpful in
actually being prepared to begin a day of study. Second, it is more pleasant for others to be in
close proximity with someone who is neat, clean, and modest.
Uniformity in dress helps students to avoid the distractions associated with fashion, so they may
focus on developing their academic skills and individual personalities.
Everything that is worn, and the manner in which it is worn, should complement the overall appearance of the uniform, not compete with or detract from it. In cases where a question arises,
final decisions will be made by the Headmaster.
All students are required to be in uniform every day, beginning the first day of school in
September. Students are required to be in full uniform from the time they arrive on campus in
the morning until the time they leave campus at the end of the day. The Gym Uniform may be
worn only for Gym class.
Students must be well groomed every day. This includes the following:

Uniforms are to be clean, in good condition, and properly worn.

Hair does not hide the student’s face. Boys are to be clean shaven.

Makeup is not to be worn, including colored nail polish or colored hair products.

Jewelry, as part of one’s dress, is not included in the uniform.
These exceptions are allowed: stud earrings, simple chain with a religious medal,
medical ID bracelet, or a simple wristwatch.

All students are expected to be properly dressed, groomed and washed before arriving
at school.
All uniform items are now available both online through Lands End or French Toast, and at
Stitchworks (www.stitchwork.com) at 297 Culver Parkway in Rochester. With the exception of
the Gym uniform, you are not required to buy exclusively from Stitchworks, and all purchases
you may have made over the past year from Lands End or French Toast will be recognized as
within the code.
The uniform guidelines will be strictly enforced. If a student is not in uniform, a phone call will
be made to the parent or guardian to bring the missing items to school.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Boys’ Academic Uniform
1. Khaki or navy dress slacks or dress Dockers – no jeans, corduroys, cargo pants or contrast stitching;
2. White or light blue Oxford shirt (short or long-sleeve), worn tucked inside slacks;
3. Plain brown or black belt;
4. Navy blue or white socks (no ankle socks are permitted);
5. Classic navy plaid tie;
6. Plain, black or brown Oxford shoes or loafers (smooth toe, plain soles, no tread);
7. Optional: navy cardigan, pullover or sweater vest (plain or with SJBS logo).
Girls’ Academic Uniforms (K-5)
1. Classic navy plaid jumper;
2. Plain white or light blue blouse with Peter Pan collar or white turtleneck (short or longsleeve). Jumpers must be knee length or longer. Please measure the length of your
daughter from shoulder to under the knee to allow for growth during the school year. A
jumper that is too short will have to be replaced.
3. Plain white or navy knee socks or tights;
4. Plain Mary Jane or flat style shoes;
5. Optional: navy cardigan, pullover or sweater vest (plain or with SJBS logo).
Girls’ Academic Uniforms (6-8)
1. Classic navy plaid kick-pleat skirt (classic navy plaid jumpers from previous years are acceptable). Skirts must be knee length or longer. Please measure the length of your
daughter from waist to under the knee to allow for growth during the school year (if the
previous jumper is still long enough, it may still be used);
2. Plain white or light blue blouse with Peter Pan collar or white turtleneck (short or long-sleeve);
3. Plain white or navy knee socks or tights;
4. Plain Mary Jane or flat style shoes;
5. Optional: navy cardigan, pullover or sweater vest (plain or with SJBS logo).
Gym Uniforms (1-8)
1. “St. John Bosco Athletics” t-shirt (available at Stitchworks);
2. St. John Bosco Schools gym shorts (available at Stitchworks);
3. Plain white socks;
4. Plain sneakers;
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Handbook for Parents and Students
5. Optional: plain navy sweatpants and a plain navy or gray sweatshirt may be worn during
colder weather. Additionally, Stitchworks will carry uniform sweatpants and sweatshirts
with SJBS logos.
No substitutions for these uniforms will be accepted. Shoes may be purchased anywhere,
provided that they match the requirements. Students without proper uniform will sit out from
the PE class.
Prescription Eyewear: If a child wears prescription eyewear, it will be considered part of his
uniform.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Discipline and Comportment
Good order is needed for good teaching to take place.
Every teacher has the right to teach.
Every student has the right to learn.
The best discipline is self-discipline. As we work toward helping our students grow in this virtue,
we start with positive guidelines for living Christian, kind, orderly, and happy lives. We begin
with the guidance of Our Lord and of his servant, St. John Bosco.
Code of Honor
The St. John Bosco Scholar’s Code of Honor states:
 I will love the Lord my God with all my heart, with all my soul, and with all my mind. I will
love my neighbor as myself.
 I will honor all that is beautiful, good, and true.
 I will not lie in word or deed, and I will not allow others to do so uncorrected.
The Salesian Way
St. John Bosco led his brother priests and the young in the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales.
1. I will be cheerful.
2. I will do my duties well.
3. I will stay close to Jesus in the Eucharist.
4. I will honor and love Mary as my Mother and Helper.
5. I choose to be kind.
6. I want to serve rather than be served.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Communication
Parental Communication and Cooperation: Parental cooperation and assistance is essential to the
development of self-control, self-discipline, and a sense of personal responsibility in our
students. Whenever there is a question or concern regarding the school rules or their
enforcement, it is essential that parents contact the school, in the interest of maintaining and
developing a partnership between parents and the school.
Order of Communication (Minor Matters): In keeping with the rules of common courtesy and
decency, the parent should first contact the staff member who is in charge of the situation in
question and as soon as reasonable in order that swift action can be taken to correct any
misunderstanding or error. If the matter has not been resolved to the satisfaction of the
parents, they may take the matter to the Headmaster, who will determine a reasonable course
of action.
Discipline
All actions have natural consequences, and bad actions have bad consequences. When
disciplinary measures must be applied, numerous factors will be taken into account. These
include the child’s age, the seriousness of the action, patterns of the child’s behavior, responses
to past corrections, and the child’s attitude.
The Headmaster will apply disciplinary measures for the purpose of leading the child to grow in
virtue. This process includes making up for the wrong that was done, growing in wisdom, and
changing one’s behavior. These purposes reflect the Catholic practices of restitution,
repentance, and making of a firm purpose of amendment.
The goal of all disciplinary measures is always to restore the child in a firm and loving way to
good standing within the classroom and school community.
Consequences
Disciplinary measures may include: withholding of privileges, a written assignment, an act of
Christian service. Other disciplinary measures may be taken at the discretion of the
Headmaster. Serious discipline issues and consistent discipline issues may be addressed with
suspension from school or expulsion.
Suspension: Suspension will be used in cases of serious violations of rules. The violation and
terms of the suspension will be documented, and written notice will be provided to the parents.
Suspension may be held in-house, at the discretion of the administrative staff, with a substitute
provided for the student at the parent’s expense. A daily Substitute Fee of $85 will be incurred.
Expulsion: Expulsion is a last resort that is used when other means of discipline have failed.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Expulsion is immediate for very serious single offenses, for which a student’s continued
presence at the school would seriously hamper the school in fulfilling its obligation to other
students. A student may be subject to immediate expulsion for any of (but not limited to) the
following offenses: possessing, using, or delivering narcotics, drugs, cigarettes, tobacco-related
products, or alcohol on the school campus or at school-related activities; possessing, using, or
concealing a weapon (or any instrument which may produce bodily harm or death) on campus
or at a school-related activity; threatening bodily injury to, or assaulting a student, parent, or any
school personnel; vandalizing school property or the property of others; engaging in chronic or
repeated behavior which disrupts the learning environment. (See Prohibited Items.) Expulsion
from the school includes a ban from attendance at all school sporting and academic events.
Damages: Students and their families will be held financially responsible for any damages caused
by the student. The cost of replacement or repair will be forwarded to the parents. These costs
include damages to the physical property of the buildings, contents, computers and software,
or the personal belongings of school staff or students.
Prohibited Items at School
General Policy: The only items allowed at school are those which are necessary for the students’
activities during the school day; usually, these include only their books and the supplies on their
school supply list.
Electronic devices, including cell phones, will be confiscated, and the parent or guardian will be
contacted to pick up the device. Any student with a cell phone in school must keep it turned off
and in the locker or backpack. Parents who need to contact their child during the school should
call the school office.
Show and Tell Items: Teachers may allow “show-and-tell” items to be brought in, but these items
are not the responsibility of the school staff or faculty. This also applies to materials brought as
part of reports/projects. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal
items.
Other Items: So that any undue feeling of competition among children might be avoided,
parents are asked to prevent children from bringing toys, collectibles, electronic equipment, or
valuables to school unless the teacher has specifically allowed it for some purpose. There will be
an ample supply of toys, dolls, games, etc. to occupy the younger children during playtime.
Dangerous Weapons: It is a crime for any person, student or non-student, to carry a firearm or
any other type of dangerous weapon within 1,000 feet of school property, onto a campus,
church, or school-sponsored bus, athletic, social, or extracurricular activity. Any person who
does this will immediately be reported to the police department.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Firearms, fireworks, or weapons of any kind, or other items which cannot be purchased by
minors over the counter are not allowed on campus and will be confiscated. If any item brought
to school is determined by the Headmaster to be dangerous in any way to students, there will
be disciplinary consequences, possibly including expulsion.
Illegal Drugs and Alcohol: St John Bosco Schools rigorously enforces a policy of zero tolerance
for illegal drugs or alcohol use by students. Automatic expulsion will result from the use and/or
possession of, or attempted possession of, alcohol or illegal drugs. Smoking is not allowed on
campus. Minors will not be allowed to bring tobacco products on campus. Any abusable glue,
aerosol paint, or volatile chemical substance for inhalation will not be allowed on campus. The
transmittal, sale, or attempted sale of what is represented to be any of the above listed
substances is also prohibited under this policy. Students involved in such actions shall be
expelled from school.
Right to Search: In consideration of all the students’ safety, school faculty and staff retain the
right to search all personal effects brought onto this property, and to confiscate any item(s)
deemed inappropriate and/or unsafe.
Harassment-Free Environment
St. John Bosco School does not condone harassment of any kind, including, but not limited to
physical harassment, verbal harassment, and sexual harassment. All students are to be treated
with dignity and respect. This prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all people
engaged in all school-related activities: all students; part-time or full-time employees;
volunteers, consultants, or our guest instructors. Students have the responsibility to:
1. Conduct themselves in a manner which contributes to a Christian school culture;
2. Avoid any activity that may be considered discriminatory, intimidating, or harassing;
3. Consider immediately informing anyone harassing the student that the behavior is
unwelcome and offensive;
4. Report all incidents of discrimination or harassment to the Headmaster. If the Headmaster
is not available, report incidents to the Teacher in charge.
5. If so instructed, to tell the student that is perceived as engaging in discriminatory,
intimidating, harassing, or unwelcome conduct, to discontinue said conduct immediately.
Please consult the Headmaster for procedures to follow for filing and investigation of any
harassment claim.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Other Information and Policies
Deliveries or Messages for Students
All messages and deliveries for students are to be sent through the school office. Out of respect
for students, faculty, and staff, classroom interruptions are not permitted.
Visitors
Those wishing to visit St. John Bosco Schools are most welcome to do so. For purposes of
safety and order, all parents and visitors check in with the school office, sign the visitor’s roster,
and wear a visitor’s badge. School tours are offered by appointment with the Headmaster only.
Parent Observation
All parents are welcome to observe any class that their student is attending, provided that
testing is not in progress. Parents wishing to observe a class must sign in at the school office,
and will be escorted to their observation. Out of respect for students, faculty, and staff,
classroom interruptions are not permitted.
Medication Policy
General Policy: Only medication that is necessary for a student to remain in school will be given
during school hours. Medication is to be brought to the office by the parent (responsible party).
If the medication is liquid, it must be accompanied with a calibrated medication dispenser that
has legible numbers on it. Only medication prescribed by a licensed physician or dentist will be
administered during school hours. No student may carry medications on school premises or
dispense them to other students. No medication that has expired will be given. School
personnel will return medication only to the parent. The staff member who is designated by the
Headmaster to assist a student in taking his medication may refuse to do so at any time and a
parent will be notified.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Prescription Medicine: A specific prescription from a physician indicating the medical reason for
use is needed for over the counter medication. Each student’s medication must be in its original
container clearly labeled with the following information:
1.
Student name.
2.
Physician/Dentist name.
3.
Date.
4.
Name of medication.
5.
Dosage.
6.
Directions for administration.
7.
Duration of administration.
All medication should be picked up by parents at the end of the school year, or it will be
discarded by the school office. No expired medication will be kept on hand.
Health Items
Flu Precautions: While we try to coach our students to practice good cough and sneeze
etiquette and make frequent use of hand sanitizer, during flu season your student(s) will likely
be exposed to the germs in some way. If your child does contract the flu, or if your child has a
fever and/or another flu symptom, like cough or runny nose, sore throat, body aches,
headache, chills, fatigue, etc., please keep him or her home from school until all symptoms,
including fever, have been gone for 24 hours without the help of medicine.
Strep Throat: If your child is diagnosed with strep throat, he or she should be kept home for at
least 24 hours after medication has first been given.
Head Lice: Head lice are common in schools, do not reflect on the hygiene and grooming of the
infested child or families, and do not spread disease. In regard to the treatment of head lice, the
federal Center for Disease control recommensw that children be permitted to return to school
after appropriate treatment is started, and after verifying there are no live lice in the hair. The
Center specifies treatment as “using an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medication”
(http://www.cdc.gov/lice/head/treatment.html).
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Lunch
SJBS families may participate in the school lunch program. Order forms go out monthly for
families to order meals from local restaurants for their children. Lunches are paid for in
advance, one month at a time.
Recess
Each lunch period is followed or preceded by recess. Recess will be held in the gym, unless a
teacher chooses to take the class to the playground.

Adult supervisors are assigned to the gym each day.

Students must stay in the assigned play area.

During recess, students may play only with equipment that is provided by the school. No
toys or equipment may be brought from home unless permission has been granted by a
teacher or administrator.

In the event of lacking enough supervisors for the playground, each class will have a
quiet recess in their respective classrooms. Children may play quiet games, draw, or read.

Good manners are required, showing consideration for each other and respect for the
adult supervisors.
Snowy Weather / Snow Days
1. Students must come to school prepared for cold weather during the winter months
(gloves, hats, and boots). The weather often changes to very cold and/or snow after
children have left for school in the morning.
2. No one may play in the snow without both boots and snow pants.
3. St. John Bosco Schools will follow the East Rochester Union Free School District’s
decision for delays and school cancellations due to snow and other inclement weather.
Additionally, St. John Bosco Schools may close independently of East Rochester.
Classroom Parties
Parents must coordinate parties and any other activities with teachers and administration. Prior
to the date of the activity, permission must be obtained from the Headmaster. Parents may
bring refreshments for their child’s birthday only after consulting with the teacher.
If refreshments are approved for a class, consideration must be given to children with special
dietary needs. Invitations for outside parties may only be distributed in school if all members of
the class (or all the girls or all the boys) are to be included.
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Handbook for Parents and Students
Lost and Found Articles
It is very important that all articles (especially clothing) be marked with the child’s full name.
Any lost items are displayed in the hall where they may be claimed. After 7 days, unclaimed
items may be donated to charity.
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