ASSUMPTION SCHOOL
35 N. Jackson Ave
Pittsburgh PA 15202
It is important that parents/guardians, students and staff are aware of the policies and procedures of
Assumption School. To ensure that the process of communication is complete, please review the revised
Parent/Student Handbook with your children.
When you have reviewed the contents, please sign and return this form to the school office via your child's homeroom teacher.
Family Name
Children's Name(s):
I have reviewed and understand the contents of the Parent/Student Handbook of
Assumption School.
Parent’s Signature:
Child’s Signature:
Date:
Date:

September 2015
Dear Parents and Friends of Assumption School,
Assumption School administration and faculty are committed to teach and model Gospel values so as to encourage students to live their lives as a reflection of Christ. The philosophy of the school strives to recognize and respect the dignity of each person and to offer a positive, Christ-centered, safe, learning environment.
Our goal is to make your child's educational experience both meaningful and productive. In order to accomplish that goal, every family must be informed of school policies and procedures. This handbook serves as the primary reference source for questions about the operation of our School.
We ask that you read the handbook thoroughly and keep it accessible. Of course, should you still have questions after referring to this handbook, the staff and I are always available to assist you.
Blessings,
Mrs. Mary Ann Miller
Principal
Student Responsibility
Teachers are to encourage students to meet the responsibilities enumerated in this school handbook:

Be accountable for their actions at all times

Respect the rights of others, including the right to learn in an environment that is orderly and disciplined
 Recognize that all administrators, teachers and monitors assume the authority of parent/guardian to all student during school hours and at all school functions

Attend school regularly and punctually

Maintain habits of neatness and personal cleanliness; adhere to the dress code
 Be prompt, thorough and neat in the completion of class work and homework
 Obey all school regulations

Respect personal property, school property and the property of others

Treat each other in a Christ like manner by following the Great Commandment.
Discipline Policy Applies

While attending school
 While arriving at or departing from school

While on school property for any reason
 While riding school buses or vans

While waiting at the bus stop, while attending any school related functions, e.g. sporting events, field trips, assemblies, skating parties, church activities, community programs, after school clubs and activities, etc.

THE CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION
45 North Sprague Avenue, Bellevue, PA 15202
Rectory (412) 766-6660
Pastor
www.assumptionchurch.org
Father Dennis Buranosky
Senior Parochial Vicar Father Peter Murphy
ASSUMPTION SCHOOL
35 North Jackson Avenue, Bellevue, PA 15202
School Office (412) 761-7887 www.assumptionschool.org
ASSUMPTION SCHOOL STAFF 2011-2012
Principal
Administrative Assistant
Preschool
Kindergarten
Grade1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 6 /Phys Ed
Grade 7
Grade 8
Mrs. Mary Ann Miller (mmiller@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Charlene Amend (camend@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Jessica Schmitt (jschmitt@assumptionchurch.org)
Miss Rebecca Glatz (rglatz@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Kelly Kutrufis (kkutrifis@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Jettie Heinle (jheinle@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Heather Reisinger (hreisinger@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Cindy Stec (cstec@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Theresa Spindler (tspindler@assumptionchurch.org)
Mr. Sean Mulligan (smulligan@assumptionchurch.org)
Mr. Bernard Stock (bstock@assumptionchurch.org)
Miss Melissa Vaughan (mvaughan@assumptionchurch.org)
Art
Music
Computer/Health
Religion/Spanish
Lunch Manager
Cafeteria Assistant
Miss Erin Jeuther (ejeuther@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Jane Marroni (jmarroni@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Mary Vic Taylor (mtaylor@assumptionchurch.org)
Miss LeNora Gray ( lgray@assumptionchurch.org
)
Mrs. Patty Lawrence (plawrence@assumptionchurch.org)
Mrs. Jan Kunst
Reading/Math Specialist Mrs. Jodi Lewis
Counselor TBA
Speech/Language Specialist Ms. Joanne Hough
School Nurse Mrs. Rene Skinner
Band Instructor Mr. Charles Speery
After School Care
Playground Monitors
Maintenance:
Mrs. Karen Lawrence
Mrs. Christine Cammarata
Mrs. Kelly Krah
Mrs. Karen Lawrence
Mr. Robert Walicki
Mr. Mike Connors

ASSUMPTION SCHOOL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
VISION STATEMENT / DEPARTMENT FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
The Vision for the Department for Catholic Schools is to promote and to sustain Catholic Schools of unparalleled quality, which integrate faith into every aspect of life and culture, producing graduates who continually strive for human and Christian perfection.
MISSION STATEMENT OF ASSUMPTION SCHOOL
For over one hundred years, Assumption School has been dedicated to the traditions and teachings of the
Roman Catholic Church, focusing on academic excellence and student success while providing an environment of safety, love and learning tailored to each child’s unique learning style. In this spirit, we are a faith community that promotes the development of morally based thinking and provides for the development of intellectual, emotional, social and physical skills for our students in order to prepare them to become effective members of a global society and morally complex world.
MIDDLE STATES ACCREDITATION
The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Assumption School. Middle States accreditation is an expression of confidence in Assumption School's mission, goals and objectives, performance and resources. The commission validates publicly Assumption’s excellence in education.
The Middle States Evaluation is an ongoing process requiring the submission of updated plans every three years. After seven years the school is re-evaluated for continued accreditation. We received our first accreditation in May of 2000. A Middle States Self Study took place during the 2011-2012 school year. We were reaccredited in the spring of 2012. The mid-term report was accepted in June of this year.
CATECHETICS (Religious Education)
Catechetics is the center of the Catholic school. A conscious effort is made to create a Christ-centered atmosphere by stressing Christian values and morality in the classroom as well as throughout the school. A conscious effort is made to integrate catechetics into every aspect of the school curriculum. Our belief in
Jesus has drawn us to this school community. Our beliefs are expressed in and strengthened by daily communal prayer. Students develop participatory skills and a love for the Church's daily worship. Included are group prayers at the start of each day, before and after lunch and before dismissal.
Morning Prayer stresses traditional Catholic prayers paying particular attention to liturgical seasons, feast days and saints. Personal intentions are brought before the Lord at this time. School wide prayer services are held periodically throughout the year. Faith experiences are an integral part of catechetics.
Opportunities for Eucharistic Liturgies, Reconciliation, Stations of the Cross, the Rosary and other Catholic prayers, classroom prayer and service to others are included in our school year planning. Community is at the heart of Catholic education, not simply as a concept to be learned, but as a reality to be lived.
The principal, with the Pastor and the Catechetical Administrator, work with the teachers in the religious development and sacramental preparation of students. Parent Preparation Programs for Reconciliation,
Eucharist, and Confirmation are held during the year.

II. DAILY PRACTICES AND POLICIES
ADMISSIONS/REGISTRATION POLICIES
Assumption School admits students of any race or national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to any students formally accepted into the school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race or national or ethnic origin in the administration of our educational policies, admission policies, athletic or other school administered programs. Children who are not Catholic are expected to participate in religion classes and to attend all religious functions of the school/church.
A student entering kindergarten must be five years of age by Sept. 1 st
. Official certificates of birth and baptism are required at the time of registration. Students entering Kindergarten are required to take a readiness test. Those registering for grades 1-8 must fulfill the age requirement for the desired grade and present letters of recommendation from the previous school. Grade level and academic group determinations are made on the basis of school records.
Immunization records must be complete before any child may enter school. The requirements are as follows:
 4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after the 4 th
birthday); 3 doses if series started after 7 years of age.

4 doses of diphtheria (1dose after the 4 th
birthday) 3 doses if series started after 7 yrs. of age.
 3 doses of polio, 3 doses of hepatitis B
 2 doses of measles 2 doses of mumps
 2 doses of varicella or statement from physician with month and year of disease or proof of immunity.
ABSENCES/TARDINESS
The school year consists of 180 instructional days. Regular attendance at school is a major factor in determining academic success. Students who are absent for more than thirty days during the academic year may be denied academic promotion.
Students who are tardy must be signed in by an adult at the office and must receive a late slip from the office to present to the homeroom teacher. Students are marked tardy if arriving at school after 8:00 a.m.
Absences from school are defined as either Excused or Unexcused according to guidelines from the
Pennsylvania School Code. Excused absences include illness, quarantine, impassable roads, recognized religious holidays, and urgent reasons, such as a death in the family or a court appearance. The state guidelines also permit an Excused Absence for Educational Trips if a request is sent to the school prior to the dates of the trip. If no prior notice is received, the absence is classified as Unexcused .
Parents should call the school office on each day that a child is absent from school. Please give the child's name, and reason for absence. Upon returning to school from an absence, a student must submit an excuse form to his/her homeroom teacher as required by state law. If this excuse is not submitted within three days following the absence, the absence will be classified as Unexcused . A copy of the absence excuse can be found on Option C.
An excuse form should be given to the homeroom teacher for the following reasons:

Following an absence or vacation


Excused from gym class
Permission for out of school appointments (child is expected to return when possible)

Attending funerals

Change of plans in leaving school (bus, ride, walk)



Change in who will be picking a child up after school
Early Dismissal
According to the Pennsylvania School Code, Section 1332, "The absence of any pupil who remains out of school with or without his parent's permission, and is not absent because of illness or for other urgent reasons, as defined in the School Code, shall be unexcused. Such absence will be recorded as 'unlawfulunexcused' for a pupil who is under the compulsory attendance age." Section 1333, "Any such child who has been absent three days, or their equivalent, during the term of compulsory attendance, without lawful excuse…shall be given written notice. If, after such notice is given, attendance is again violated by the person, such person shall be liable… for referral to the magistrate."
Parents and guardians of students who acquire excessive absences (more than 19 days) may be required to provide documentation from a physician indicating that the absences are relating to an existing medical condition. These absences may also call for referral to the magistrate.
BIRTHDAY PARTY INVITATIONS
Please do not send party invitations to school to be distributed for your child's birthday. The only exception to this is if every boy or every girl or all students in your child's room are invited.
CAFETERIA
Lunch: All students must bring or buy a lunch. Those bringing lunch may purchase milk.
Rules: The use of good manners is encouraged and, therefore, the following cafeteria rules are to be observed:

Remain seated until you are done eating. After throwing away your trash, return to your seat and

 wait until your entire table is dismissed.
Always walk while in the cafeteria.
Refrain from shouting or screaming; enjoy the company of those nearby.

Be courteous and respectful to all those helping during the lunch period. Use your best manners.

Become silent when the silent signal is given.

Silence is maintained during dismissal from the cafeteria.
Lunch includes a choice of a main entrée that changes daily and is posted on a monthly calendar, or hamburger, cheeseburger or pizza. Salads will be available 3 times a week
The cafeteria is operated in accordance with U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, handicap, religion, or national origin.
No fee is charged for preparation and labor fees involved in our lunch program if a parent representative volunteers one day a month to help with serving and clean up. The time requirement is from 10:30 –
12:15.
CELL PHONE, IPODS AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
If a child needs a cell phone for after school use, the phone must be turned off and handed in to the homeroom teacher upon morning arrival. The phone can be picked up upon dismissal. I pods, hand held games, etc. should not be brought to school. If a phone or I pod is not handed in to the homeroom teacher, it will be held in the office until a parent comes to school to retrieve it.
CLOTHING IDENTIFICATION
Parents are strongly urged to mark their children's personal belongings with their names. The lost-andfound area is located at the bottom of the stairway across from the Principal’s Office. Other lost items, such as glasses, watches and purses, if found, are to be turned in to the office. Items that are not claimed by the end of each school year are donated to charity.

DETENTION/SUSPENSIONS (In-school/Out-of-school)
Discipline is the key to good conduct and to respecting the rights of others. It is essential to learning.
Classroom standards and expectations for student behavior vary according to age and are determined by the individual teacher. If behavior warrants action, any member of the faculty may issue a student detention.
Depending on the severity, this detention may be served either during recess or after school hours. If the detention is after school, parents are responsible for transportation. See the Demerit Policy which is in effect for the Middle School students. In the event of a serious act of misbehavior or repeated acts of misbehavior, a student may serve either an in-school or out-of-school suspension. If misconduct continues, a student may be asked to leave the school. These decisions rest with the administration and may be necessary for the benefit of the total program.
DRESS CODE
Assumption School is a Catholic elementary school, which maintains the right to establish a uniform dress code for its students. It is recognized that proper school attire and good grooming are conducive to a student's educational and social development. This Dress Code was developed:
 to promote a Christian atmosphere
 to free children for academic concentration
 to de-emphasize competition among children regarding clothing
 to allow more economical dress for school, and
 to provide some choice to accommodate individual differences.
Boys
Polo or button down collared shirt. Colors: white, navy, or light blue
Blue or white cardigan sweater
Blue or white pull over crew sweater or sweatshirt. Assumption logos are encouraged but not mandatory
– no other logos or saying may appear on the sweater or sweatshirt.
Assumption or plain blue or white crew sweater
White or blue turtle necks may be worn in colder weather.
Navy or khaki dress pants. No cargo pants or jeans
Dress shoes. (Kindergarten may wear tennis shoes)
Socks: White, blue or black. Socks must show above shoe
Blue or khaki uniform shorts may be worn until Nov.1 and after April 1st.
Belts must be worn with pants and shirts must be tucked in.
Girls
Polo or button down collared shirt. Colors: white, navy or light blue
White or blue turtle necks may be worn in colder weather.
Blue or white cardigan sweater. Blue or white pull over sweater
Assumption or plain blue or white crew sweater or sweatshirt. Assumption logos are encouraged but not mandatory – no other logos or saying may appear on the sweater or sweatshirt
Assumption plaid, blue or khaki jumper or skirt.
Navy or khaki dress pants. Navy, plaid or khaki skirt/skort.
Dress shoes/No boots/No flip flops/No open back shoes
Socks: white, blue, black crew or knee socks, blue or white tights.
Blue or khaki shorts may be worn before Nov. 1 st
and after April 1 st
.
Shorts should be no more than 2 inches above the knee.
Belts must be worn and shirts must be tucked in.
No hoodies are to worn at any time during the school day.
Gym uniforms may be ordered through our school store. Gym uniforms are worn all day on physical education days.
Tennis shoes may be worn on gym day and during the months of September, October, April, May and
June.
Shorts may be worn in September, October, April, May and June only.

DRESS DOWN DAYS
Periodically throughout the year, Dress Down Days are held for certain purposes. On those days, $1.00 will be collected from all who dress down for a certain charity or cause. Uniforms may be worn on Dress
Down Days if the child prefers not to dress down. Clothing, if not uniform, must still be appropriate to the school setting. No short skirts or shorts should be worn. Shoes must have backs. No halter tops or spaghetti strap tops or flip flops are allowed. Jeans should not have holes in them.
DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS
If a student does not follow dress code regulations, he or she will

Call home to have a change of clothes brought to school

Wear a uniform replacement from the Uniform Resale Shop. The parent will be responsible for washing and returning said clothing.
DRESS CODE FOR GYM CLASSES
The gym uniform may be worn throughout the day on a student’s designated physical education day.
The school gym uniform must be worn. These uniforms can be purchased in the school store.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
The school day ends at 2:35. Bus students wait at the Jackson Ave. Entrance. When all buses have departed, walkers and car riders are called to the same entrance. Kindergarteners and 1 st
grade students are called to the door to meet the person designated to take them home. Walkers should start for home immediately. A Parent Patrol will cross students at the crosswalk. Parents who are driving their children home should pull up on Jackson Ave. and pick their children up on the school side of the street. If, for any reason pick up will take longer than a minute or two, parents should park in the school lot rather than hold up traffic.
Children should not walk through the school parking lots except to go to their car. They should enter the car immediately.
EARLY DISMISSALS
Parents should make every effort to schedule appointments at a time that school is not in session. However, if a child must have an early dismissal, he/she must have a written note for the principal's approval. For these dismissals, parents or an authorized adult must meet the child at the office and sign him/her out at the authorized time. Children who arrive later than 10:00 a.m. will be marked as absent in the morning.
Children who leave school before 12:00 p.m. will be marked absent for the afternoon.
EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS
The only early dismissal days that we have are: Parent Teacher Conference Day and the last day of school.
Only the Pittsburgh bus will pick students up on early dismissal days.
If an Early Dismissal Day is called due to an emergency situation, a OneCall phone message will be sent and the children will be dismissed as parents arrive.

EMERGENCIES
Emergency Cards
At the beginning of each school year, parents are required to complete three Student Emergency Cards. The first is for our office files, the second is for the nurse and the third is for our emergency evacuation bags. It is vital that the school be able to reach you to inform you of illness or an emergency situation. Cell phone and work phone numbers should be listed. It is also important to list the names of two others who can be contacted should you be unavailable. Please include any pertinent health information including any allergies your child may have. Please keep the card updated by notifying the office. This card should be returned to the school office before the school year begins or within the first three days of school. It is vital to your child’s safety, that all emergency information is available at all time.
Emergency Closings and Delay
If inclement weather or some other emergency requires that the school be delayed or closed, this information will be announced on KDKA, WTAE and WPXI television and radio. Our school will be listed as “Assumption School, Bellevue”. You will also be alerted through our One Call phone system.
In the event of a two-hour delay, all children should report to school between 9:40 and 10:00 a.m. Because some public districts do not provide busing outside the normal times, parents from these districts will be responsible for their own child’s transportation to and from school.
Because our attendance registers are legal indicators of a child's presence at the times we are in session, children who arrive late or are absent because of busing when school is in session will be marked as
Excused Tardy or Excused Absence
Emergency Dismissals
In the event that we would be required to dismiss school early, that information will be announced on the same stations noted above. A One Call message will be sent to homes and cell phones. However, because phone service may be interrupted in the school, some emergency situations may not allow for this option.
Children will be dismissed as parents are notified and transportation is arranged.
EMPLOYMENT
Assumption School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other schooladministered programs.
EXTENDED CARE
Assumption School offers an after school program for parents who need child care. Our extended days are available from 2:40 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. for a fee. This service is available on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Parents should contact the school office for the fee schedule and contact person if you plan to use the service.
FIELD TRIPS
Every class is permitted field trips during the year. Each student must have a signed permission slip before he/she is permitted to participate. Transportation, in accordance with diocesan directives, is provided by bus. No 8 th
grade students may participate in the end-of-year field trip unless tuition is paid in full. 15 or more demerits during the course of the school year would prohibit middle school students from participating in end of the year field trips.
Guidelines for both students and chaperones are in effect for each field trip. The teacher will send a copy of the student guidelines home so that the parent may help reinforce these guidelines. All chaperones must have completed the clearance process. See Safe Environment.

FUNDRAISING
The Diocesan policy for funding elementary Catholic schools calls for each school to have fundraising activities to generate a minimum of 10% of their total operating budget. This enables us to keep tuition rates at 60% of the total cost. School parents are expected to participate in these fundraising activities to the best of their ability through monetary donations, purchases and/or volunteer work. Volunteering is mandatory at the Parish Festival and Fish Fries.
HOMEWORK
A reasonable amount of homework, according to grade level, is of great educational value and so is assigned every day. Assignments are not always written. Study and memory work are frequently assigned.
Homework is assigned on a regular basis to: enrich school experiences, provide practice and review, develop good study habits, teach responsibility and foster originality.
Parents can assist students with home assignments in the following ways:

Provide a quiet spot away from the television, telephone, or other distracting elements;

Check to see what was completed regarding completeness, neatness, and correctness;

Be willing to listen to reading, spelling, and math facts and to explain procedures, but never do the assignment;

Consult the teacher if the child uses the excuse "no homework" too often.
If for some reason the child cannot complete an assignment, the parent should inform the teacher by written note stating the reason. Arrangements should be made as soon as possible to make up incomplete assignments. The Diocese recommends the following time schedule for home study:
Primary (levels 1-3) - 30 minutes Intermediate (levels 4-5) - 45 minutes Upper Elementary (levels 6-8) 1
– 1-1/2 hours
At the discretion of the teacher, homework is not generally assigned on weekends. In case of a student's absence, requests for homework should be made before noon.
The student is given the same number of days he or she was absent to make up any missed work.
Missing and late work will be noted on Option C. Parents should check for missing or late work on a regular basis.
HONOR ROLL
In order to encourage academic excellence, an honor roll system has been established to recognize and commend those middle school students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement.
Honors: Students should achieve an average of 89% - 92% when the grades of their six major subject areas
(religion, reading, math, science, social studies, English) are averaged together with no less than a C in any of the minor subjects.
High Honors: Students should achieve an average of 93% - 100 % in the six major areas with no less than a
C in any of the minor subjects.
PARENT ORGANIZATIONS
Athletic Association :
All sport programs are the responsibility of the Pastor/Principal. The Athletic Director is accountable to the
Pastor/Principal. Coaches are selected by the Athletic Director and approved by Pastor/Principal and serve on a volunteer basis. The Diocesan Guidelines for Elementary Catholic Schools Sports programs guides the policies. Parent interest and willingness to serve on the Athletic Association are vital to the continued success of the program, but all school associations and advisory boards are under the supervision of the principal.
Code of conduct for fans and players at Diocesan Athletic Events
No coach, fan or player is to:
 Refuse to abide by official’s decision or use profane language or gestures.





Exhibit objectionable behavior, e.g. throwing equipment or any other forceful actions.
Verbally abuse an official for any real or imagined unjust decision or judgment, or verbally abuse a player, opposing coach, diocesan representative or spectator.
Physically attack any person.
Use alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs.
Penalties for disregarding the above regulations include suspension from play, termination of all activities related to the school’s sports program or probation of the program. Anyone ejected from the game must leave the premises immediately.
APTG (Assumption Parent/Teacher Guild)
All school families are members of the APTG. The dues are $10.00 a year. The objectives of this group are to establish close relationships between teachers and parents, the home and the school, to develop parental interest in Catholic education, and to become involved in the academic and social education of the students.
The APTG sponsors social activities for special occasions during the school year. All money raised by the
APTG goes directly toward funding the education needs and social events of the students.
RETENTION
Advancement to the next grade is based on a student’s daily performance, test results, recommendations of teachers and the student’s ability to complete work successfully on a more advanced level. Promotion to the next grade depends on successful completion of all subject areas. The administration may recommend the repetition of a grade, tutoring, or summer school classes as requirement for promotion when, after conferences with teachers and parents, it is believed that such action will better prepare the student for the next grade.
RIGHTS OF NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act gives full rights to each parent, unless the school has been provided with evidence that there is a court order, States' statute or legally binding documents relating to such matters as divorce, separation or custody that specifically revokes these rights. Such an order is to be on file in the school and those persons responsible for the child (ren) are to be informed of the circumstances. Every effort is made to keep the non-custodial parent apprised of the progress of the child (ren) through reports, report cards and parent/teacher conferences .
SAFE ENVIRONMENT
Our students deserve a safe and secure environment in which to work and grow. All employees of
Assumption School and any parent who wants to volunteer to work with the students in any capacity must fulfill the following requirements:
Go to the website www.diopitt.org
. Scroll down and look for Protecting God’s Children on the left hand side of the screen.
1.
Click on Safe Environment Database. Click on “First time users are asked to click here to register and create a User ID/Password
Please call the school office to receive the access code. After registering, fill in all 10 sections of the database. Remember to hit the “Submit” button.
2.
Still under “Protecting God’s Children” on the website, click on “Protecting God’s Children
Workshops” This is a 3 hour workshop that is offered throughout the diocese at many times and locations. Choose a site, register and attend the workshop. Please give our office a copy of the certificate that you will receive when you complete the workshop.
3.
Get a copy of the Child Abuse Clearance application in the office. Fill it out along with a form that gives permission for the clearance to come directly to the school. We will mail the form for you and the church pays the fee.

4.
Obtain 2 booklets from the office concerning the diocesan stand on protecting God’s children.
Read the booklets, sign the last page in each booklet and give them back to the school office.
This process may also be completed online.
5.
All volunteers must have their federal clearances (fingerprinting) or must sign a waiver that states that he or she has lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years.
6.
Coaches must take the Act 126 Mandated Reporter training.
All clearances must be in place before a person can volunteer in any capacity.
All records are confidential and kept in the school files.
SCHOLARSHIP MONIES
Scholarship monies are available for eligible families. The Private School Aid Service (PSAS) application is used. These applications are assessed by an independent evaluator and are confidential.
This one application is used for Scholastic Opportunities Scholarship, OSTC, Bishop’s Education Fund and the Angel Fund. Applications will be sent to each family through the school’s office sometime in
February.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
For the convenience of families, supply lists are available each June for the following year. They can also be found on the Option C site and on our website. Students provide their own school supplies but are expected to comply with individual teacher requirements. Most items are available at the school store.
SECURITY
All doors leading into the school from the outside will be locked at all times. A teacher will supervise welcoming and dismissing the students from these doors at the days beginning and close. Visitors and students not arriving between 7:50 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. must enter through the side office entrance. A door bell will announce their arrival. Cameras monitor the main school entrance and the Jackson Street entrance. Adults only will answer the door. Students are never to open the door for anyone. After entering, all visitors must sign in at the office and wear a visitor’s badge.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Assemblies
Assemblies are held for children throughout the school year. The assemblies are planned in conjunction with the principal, faculty, and the PTG with a focus on education.
Altar Servers
Students in grades 4 through 8 have the privilege of serving on the altar. Students who choose this privilege are expected to fulfill assigned responsibilities and be on time.
Basketball
Basketball is offered to the 2 nd
– 8 th
grade level children, beginning with instructional teams in the primary grades and continuing with separate boys' and girls' developmental, junior varsity and varsity teams at upper levels. Fundraising for all teams is provided almost entirely through refreshments sold at games and during the summer programs and tournaments. A general organizational meeting is held in the fall to acquaint parents and students with the basketball program. A family fee is charged to cover the rental of gym space, banquet items etc.
Band
Band instruction is available for a fee for interested students from grades 4-8. The Diocesan Program dictates the monthly fee annually. The instruments are rented with the option to buy. Small group

lessons are provided one period a week and practice is held once a week. The periods are rotated so the same classes are not missed too often. However, it remains the responsibility of the student to make up missed work. A meeting is held at the beginning of each school year to provide more information for interested parents.
Choir
Any student is grades 2-8 may join Choir. The choir practices once a week. They sing at all school
Masses and occasionally at the Noon Sunday Mass as well as in special seasonal concerts.
Cross Country
Cross Country is open to all students from grades 2-8. The team practices beginning in July and runs through the fall months. A family fee is charged to cover expenses.
Drama Club
Drama Club meets once a week to learn skits and plays and to practice speech delivery and acting skills.
The members perform for the school and as an addition to band concerts. They sometimes perform at local coffee shops and venues.
Forensics
Novice 5 th
graders and any Middle School Student may participate in the SPFL Forensics team. Practices are held after school hours and occasionally during recess. Our team always makes a fine showing at tournaments!
Knitting Club
Our Knitting Club meets once a week. They learn how to knit scarves, hats, blanket squares and more!
Mathcounts
Students in the Middle School years can participate in the Mathcounts contest. The group meets once a week after school to prepare for the contest.
Pep Club
Anyone in grades 1-5 is invited to join our Pep Club. The group cheers at our Pep Rallies and at selected basketball games.
PJAS
Middle School Students are encouraged to enter a science project at PJAS completions.
SOCCER
Our soccer team plays in the spring and is open to students from grades 2-8.
Student Council
Student Council consists of students from grades 5-8, including 4 officers and 10 representatives.
The Student Council sponsors social events, such as dances, pep rallies, talent shows, and birthday recognition. They raise money for various charitable causes, such as the mission in Chimbote, Peru.
They sponsor an annual food drive each Thanksgiving and plan a school-wide Thanksgiving Liturgy.
SOCIAL EVENTS
The APTG oversees holiday parties, field days etc. Educational assemblies are planned by the administration and faculty. All other events must be cleared with the principal. No social event should, without significant purpose, interrupt the academic day.
STUDENT RECORDS
Assumption School adheres to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act regarding access to student records. Records of students transferring to other schools will only be sent through U.S. Mail. No record will be given to parents to transport to new schools.

TESTING
Standardized tests, textbook tests, and teacher-made tests are administered to students throughout the year. These assessments require students to synthesize information, apply what they have learned and demonstrate their understanding of what has been taught.
Readiness Test: Students entering kindergarten are administered a Brigance Readiness Test to determine readiness and ability to succeed.
Achievement Tests: Students in grades 2-8 are administered a standardized test to measure progress from one year to another. A component of the standardized testing program is an aptitude test that helps to define the ability of a student in relationship to the results of the standardized test. If a child should be absent due to illness, every attempt will be made to enable the child to make-up the tests.
However, since the tests must be mailed on the last scheduled test day, make-up testing often necessitates taking more tests daily than is ideal. To prevent this, we ask that you do not schedule trips or appointments during the time of standardized testing. These tests are conducted in March or April of each year.
Teacher-made: Tests, which are constructed by teachers to measure, evaluate and determine what students have learned.
Textbook Tests: Tests, which accompany textbooks, adopted for use with students in a particular area and are administered at the conclusion of a chapter and/or unit.
TEXTBOOKS
Assumption School participates in Pennsylvania’s Act 195/190 whereby the state purchases textbooks and instructional materials of non-religious nature. A parent form with permission to have their child use these books is kept on file in the school office. Students are responsible for the condition of the books given to them at the beginning of the year. Students will be required to pay for a book if it is damaged or lost. Books taken to and from school should be in a book bag.
TRANSFERS
When a student transfers to another school, parents should notify the school office as soon as possible.
Transfers will not be made until the school to which your child is transferring sends a written request.
Academic records will not be forwarded until all financial obligations to the school have been met.
Academic and health records are confidential.
TRANSPORTATION
It is important that we know the ordinary means by which each child arrives and departs daily. A note is to be sent when a change is necessary. For reasons of safety and insurance, each child is to ride his/her assigned bus. A child may not ride a bus from a district other than the one in which he resides.
Bus
Northgate School District does not bus students. Students from surrounding districts may be bussed if they live more than 2 miles from Assumption. The following districts can provide bus transportation to our school: Avonworth, North Hills, Pittsburgh, Montour, North Allegheny and Shaler, Sto Rox, Hampton and
Quaker Valley.
The student transportation policies and procedures of the local educational agencies responsible for busing students are applicable to all students in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Students are expected to maintain appropriate behavior while in route on the bus. Every bus follows the guidelines that are within our own discipline code. If the bus driver/company recommends that a student be removed from the bus, the principal will support it. This will result in the student losing bus privileges. The student/parent will then be responsible to make other arrangements for transportation.
If improper conduct occurs, the driver prepares a report that is sent home to alert the parents to the problem. If the behavior persists, the bus company has the right to ask the school district to suspend the

student's privilege of riding the bus, temporarily or permanently.
The following bus rules are to be obeyed:

Remain seated at all times until the correct stop has been reached. If the driver has assigned
 seats, these seat assignments are to be honored
Keep head, hands and feet inside the bus.

Do not ask to ride a bus other than the one to which you have been assigned or ask the driver to let you off at another stop. Only the Department of Transportation can authorize such changes.

Quiet talking is permitted. Loud talking, etc. may distract the driver, prevent students from hearing instructions, or prevent the driver from hearing signals from emergency vehicles.

Be courteous; use no profane language.

Do not eat, drink, or chew gum on the bus.

Keep the bus clean

Cooperate with the driver.


Do not put anything out the window of the bus.
Do not be destructive

The driver is in charge. Any directives of the bus driver in addition to the above are to be followed.
Students cannot travel on a bus that is provided by a district in which that child does not reside.
Car/Walkers
At dismissal students walking and riding cars are dismissed shortly after the bus riders. All students should be picked up on Jackson Ave.
TUITION
Parents who register a student in the school enter into a contractual obligation with the school. The first tuition payment is due on August 1 st
of the upcoming academic year; subsequent payments are due the first of each month, with a 2% late fee charged after the 10 th
of each month. Full payment due by May 1 st
.
Parents are reminded that the operational budget of the school is dependent on timely fulfillment of this obligation. Parents whose tuition is in arrears will receive a notice indicating the past due amount.
Registration for the next school year, final grades, and transfers of academic records will not be processed if there is an outstanding balance. It is diocesan policy that no student be readmitted to a new school year if there is an outstanding tuition from the previous year.
The school offers a scrip program through which gift cards may be purchased. The school receives a rebate on each card. These rebates vary according to vendor. The family may use the rebate on cards purchased toward credit on their assessment fee.
VOLUNTEERS
The help of volunteers is always welcome in the school and at school-sponsored events. Please consider using some of your time and talent to help enhance our quality program. The possibilities are endless.
At Assumption School parents play an integral role in the education of their children through the Parent
Teacher Guild, athletics, fund-raising activities, homeroom parents, lunchroom monitors and field trip chaperones. This partnership is invaluable to the success of our school. Please note, all volunteers must have proper clearances on file in the school office.
III CURRICULUM
Catechetics/Religious Formation
The Catholic Church recognizes parents/guardians as the primary educators of their children.
The role of the parish school is to supplement and complement the role of the parent. In the school, a formal catechetical program is taught daily. The Diocesan Catechetical Curriculum Guidelines,

“Growing in God’s Covenant” contain a balance of doctrinal content, scriptural understanding, faith formation, and prayer and worship experiences.
Goals and objectives are constant and consistent to enhance the spiritual formation and moral development of all students. A genuine, personal relationship with God and the response of worship and service are ultimate goals of the religious instruction. Liturgical and personal prayer is the outcomes of the guidance and religious instruction provided. Opportunities for communal, as well as personal prayer are a daily priority. Careful planning and programming ensure a broad and deep understanding of authentic Church Doctrine. A variety of materials and resources are used to foster both spiritual growth and moral development.
Parents are encouraged to communicate in words and actions the Church’s teaching concerning human sexuality. When adults respond to their sexuality in a love-giving manner they enable their children to integrate the Church’s teaching concerning human sexuality into their own lives. The
Catholic Vision of Love is the Diocesan mandated Sexuality Program.
The Continuous Growth Approach to Instruction
The Catholic Schools located within the Diocese of Pittsburgh are committed to a program of education that seeks knowledge and practice of the Catholic faith, academic excellence, moral courage and the learning of the faith in the light of social teachings of the Church.
The Catholic School offers a strong traditional curriculum. In the "Continuous Growth Program" of the Diocese of Pittsburgh students advance through a defined curriculum according to their individual needs and abilities. In addition to meeting all the requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the curriculum gives special attention to the integration of Gospel values.
Curriculum Guidelines for all subject areas are utilized by the Catholic elementary schools and provided through the Department for Catholic Schools. The guidelines give continuity to the teaching/learning process, and are geared to meet the individual needs of students.
Research indicates that children will achieve according to the expectancies placed upon them by their teachers and parents. Catholic school teachers place high expectations on all children so that all children are encouraged to achieve to the best of their ability. This is particularly true in the skill areas of
Reading and Math. The curricula for these subjects are so designed that students can advance through defined levels of competency according to their needs and abilities.
Curriculum Guidelines
In the Catholic schools, quality academic education is dependent on an organized plan of basic content with special attention given to the integration of Gospel values. The guidelines endeavor to give continuity to the teaching/learning process, and are geared to meet the individual needs of students and to guide the teaching/learning process. Flexible pacing is an important component of the continuous growth concept. This provision places students at an appropriate instructional level and then allows them to move forward in the curriculum as they achieve mastery of content and skills. Students are not to be
"locked" into an instructional group. Teachers will assess the abilities of students and allow for flexibility in instructional groups. Teachers, recognizing different learning styles, vary their presentation and assignments so as to provide for the individual needs of each child. Critical thinking skills, problem solving and research techniques are a part of instruction. Enrichment activities are provided for all students, to broaden lessons presented.
The goals of the Continuous Growth Program in Language Arts and Math are:
 to recognize and provide for differences in each student's growth patterns
 to provide an environment in reading and math classes that permits and encourages continuous progress
 to adapt the math and reading curriculum to each child so as to challenge maximum individual development
 to encourage students to exert effort so that they may experience success in their encounter with each school situation
Common Core Standards have not been adopted by the Pittsburgh Diocesan Schools.

Computer
Computer instruction is essential in today's educational process. This instruction includes computer awareness and computer literacy. When this instruction and awareness are mastered, the computer becomes a basic tool for teaching logical thinking and problem-solving, creative writing, communication, the handling of information, and many other aspects of the curriculum.
Teachers of computer literacy look beyond hardware and develop an awareness of values such as relationships, collaboration, ethical conduct, responsibility and creative expression.
Fine Arts
The Fine Arts program is vital to all students. Instruction in the Arts contributes to the development of the whole person; promotes individual expression; allows experimentation with diverse materials and elements; enables exploration and appreciation of the works of other students, major artists; and musicians; develops an awareness and sensitivity toward the environment and finally promotes a deeper understanding of heritage and culture. All students receive art and music instruction.
Language Arts
Language as communication enables one to become more perceptive through listening, observing and feeling. Language, as a skill, provides one with the important tools to speak fluently, to read and comprehend, to compose, to write legibly and to spell correctly. An awareness of the history of language and the continuous development of vocabulary also are important phases of skill development. An appreciation of literature enriches the student through the experience of skillful authors who vicariously open new worlds to the student.
Library
All classes have a regularly scheduled library class time. In grades 1-4 books are checked out for one week and a fine of .05 a day is charged for overdue books. In grades 5-8 books are checked out for two weeks. Lost or damaged books must be paid for.
Mathematics
It is our mission to enable all students to learn the skills, acquire the knowledge, and develop the attitudes in mathematics necessary for them to become responsible citizens. The challeng e is not only to meet and to exceed grade level expectations but to excite students to explore topics on their own, to develop proof for answers and to learn from one another.
Physical Education/Health
Physical education is a vital component of the curriculum. Recognizing the value of teaching students to establish healthy active lives and develop skills needed for present and future leisure, the Fit for Life curriculum guidelines have been adopted. The Fit for Life Curriculum assists students in identifying their physical strengths and weaknesses and encourages students to build on their strengths to achieve personal goals. Students learn to follow rules and to respect the rights of others through games and physical activity. The Health for Success curriculum presents information at each level of development that will help students makes wise, moral decisions with respect for the God given Gift of life. The health curriculum places holistic emphasis on wellness, fitness, behaviors, and skills for healthy, active living. Education and health for children are inextricably intertwined. Students then have the benefit of sustained learning for reducing health-risk behaviors and enhancing health--promoting behaviors.
Science
. The science curriculum focuses on an inquiry-based process and fosters collaborative learning. Science education strengthens life skills such as creative problem solving, critical thinking, team cooperation, use of technology, and the value of life-long learning.
Social Studies
The scope of the social studies curriculum includes elements of anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, and sociology with emphasis on global awareness and values. An integrated interdisciplinary approach helps students develop a sense of relationship among the various social studies disciplines. A clear understanding of current events helps students to integrate the past with the

present and prepares them for the future. The Social Studies curriculum begins in kindergarten with an introduction to community helpers. It progresses in the primary grades to the study of family and friends, and later encompasses a more in-depth study of the community. Beginning in fourth grade, the curriculum focuses on the study of the United States land regions and Pennsylvania history. At the fifth grade level, both United States history through the Civil War and a study of the United States geographical regions are studies. Sixth grade students study World Cultures and World Geography with an emphasis on the countries of the Eastern Hemisphere. Seventh grade studies United States history to the Reconstruction and eighth grade studies United States history beginning with the Reconstruction to the modern day. Map and geography skills are taught at all levels. Social Studies prepares students for the future by instilling the importance of a value-oriented life perspective.
World Languages
Language students learn the sounds and syntax of the language and work toward proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing. A variety of materials and methods are used for instruction. Enhancement of communication, expanding career opportunities, and community building are some of the outcomes of the world language program. Assumption offers Spanish in grades K-8. Most students qualify for year two Spanish in high school.
REMIDIAL READING AND MATH
The Title I program is designed to provide additional assistance to students who are not demonstrating grade level proficiency in reading and/or math. Funding for these services comes through the local public school district. Referrals for the program are based on teacher referrals, standardized test results, and parent approval. Alternate strategies are planned for students in accordance with individual instructional goals and in support of the classroom curriculum to help students develop mastery of basic skills.
ACT 89 SERVICES
Intermediate Unit personnel work with and provide support to students in remedial math and reading. These teachers, in collaboration with the classroom teacher, identify educational needs and design educational interventions and strategies to help a child succeed. Northgate students are serviced by a Title 1 teacher employed by the district.
Counseling
A certified counselor provides individual and small group counseling sessions to children in grades K-8.
Children are referred by parents, principal, and teacher and through self-referral. Individual counseling requires parent permission. The counselor may meet with a student one time before permission is received.
Our counselor is provided through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit.
Equitable Participation/Academic Support
The Catholic Schools of Pittsburgh are committed to a program based on the concept that all children are unique, learn at different rates and are to be challenged to the fullest potential.
We desire to be as inclusive as possible in welcoming all students for whom we can provide an appropriate education. Assumption School provides academic support, designed to coordinate assistance to individual students who are struggling academically and/or have been identified as persons with needs such as:

Slower patterns of learning

Specific learning disabilities

Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder



Performing below grade level

Autism (highly functional)
 Asperger’s Syndrome

Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Visual and Hearing Impaired
If you believe your child may have a disability and may be in need of academic support, an evaluation process to access your child’s needs is available to you at no cost through the school district in which you

live.
If, after an evaluation your child is found to have a disability and to need special education, the public school will offer you services of FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education). In order to receive these services, you will need to enroll your child in the public school.
However, if you choose not to accept FAPE, your child may be still eligible for certain services under a federal program called Equitable Participation. (EP). The services offered under EP are not the same kind of services offered under FAPE, but the funds for EP will help the catholic school provide academic support to students in need.
Psychological Testing
Psychological testing is available by parent request or at the recommendation of the teacher in consultation with the principal. Parents make the final decision. Results are formally reported to parents, principal and teachers along with a list of recommendations made by the psychologist. This information is kept confidential and not shared with anyone without parent permission.
Speech/Language
Speech and language services are also provided through Act 89 funding. This is a special service offered to students to enhance communication skills, which directly impact social and academic interactions.
Student Assistance Program (SAP)
The Student Assistance Program (E-SAP) is mandated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by Act 211 of
1990. It is a comprehensive program of prevention, intervention, and support for students in grades K-12.
The members of the Team are the principal and faculty members of the school who have received special training through Approved Agencies.
The program exists in order to promote the growth and development of the child. The team members work with students who are experiencing behavior difficulties which impact their social, emotional, and educational progress.
Referrals for the program are made by faculty and/or parents. Parental permission is needed to place a child in the SAP program. Once the Team has received a referral, classroom teachers are asked to complete a form, which helps identify the behaviors. The Team then makes informed assumptions as to what is needed to help the student, conveys this information to classroom teachers, parents/guardians and evaluates the results. If necessary, after consultation with parents, appropriate referrals are made to outside agencies.
Team members must maintain all information regarding students and their families under safeguard of privacy and confidentiality.
Access is limited to those who have a legitimate educational interest.
IV COMMUNICATIONS
Good Communication is one of our priorities at Assumption School. If you have any comments or concerns, please call us at 412-761-7887 and we will be happy to set up conferences and/or appointments as necessary.
A packet of school information will be sent home each Friday. The weekly newsletter will also be published on the Option C website. Any information or fliers, etc. that a parent may want to distribute must be approved by the principal. Parents may return any necessary forms in the envelope. A monthly calendar and our monthly hot lunch menu are also included in the envelope.
Email updates are sent through our One Call System.
Any questions concerning your child should be directed to the teacher. Please call the school office and the teacher will be notified to contact you. Positive communication between teacher and parent is vital to our total educational program.
Parents are informed of the student's progress and other school information as follows:
 Quarterly report cards


Parent/student/teacher conferences

Conferences on request

Conduct referrals

School Newsletter

Parent Teacher Guild meetings

The Option C Gradebook System
V. DISCIPLINE
Introduction
Assumption School administration and faculty are committed to teach and model Gospel values to encourage students to live their lives as a reflection of Christ. The philosophy of the school strives to recognize and respect the dignity of each person and to offer a positive, Christ-centered, safe learning environment based on the Social Teachings of the Church. Discipline is considered an element of moral guidance not as a form of punishment.
Every teacher and staff member shares the responsibility to model appropriate behavior and to support the structure necessary for learning self-discipline. Students are encouraged to assume responsibility for their actions, develop self-control, and accept responsibility and consequences for inappropriate behavior.
A Christ-centered school environment fosters the following behaviors:

Recognizing and fostering the uniqueness and dignity of each individual

Nurturing respect in all relationships involving school and parish community

Developing a sense of rights and responsibilities and commitment to the entire school and parish community.
Social skills, are taught, modeled, practiced, and infused into the daily life and experience of the school family.
Expectations
As a matter of safety, students are expected to behave in the following manner:
Before school
 to arrive after 7:40 am

 to gather in the designated area to engage in quiet conversation
 to walk to homerooms when the school bell rings
In school
 to walk quietly through the halls
 to use proper language at all times
 to follow the dress code for school days and dress up/down days
 to respect the rights of other students
 to respect school property and the property of other students
 to have a note from their parent/guardian if they change their mode of school transportation
In the classroom
 to follow the classroom rules of each teacher
 to be prepared for class

 to be responsible for submitting homework on time and making up assignments missed within a reasonable amount of time
 to have a respectful attitude toward teachers and one another

 to be honest in all communications to use computers and school equipment appropriately
 not to chew gum
 not to remain in or enter a classroom at any time without a teacher or designated adult present
During recess
 not to re-enter the building unless for an emergency
 to display good sportsmanship and exercise self control
 to play in assigned areas only
 to stay on school grounds at all times (This includes not retrieving a ball that has gone off school grounds.)
 to obey the directives of playground monitors, courteously and promptly.
 to stop playing at the bell and walk quietly to their designated line.
During lunch
 to remain seated until finished eating and the "recess" bell rings
 to clean up, pick up all papers, scraps of food, etc., and dispose of them properly
 to obey cafeteria supervisors at all times
After school
 to follow dismissal procedures
 to walk to assigned place to wait until bus or car ride arrives
 not to run or play games on the school grounds
 to leave the school grounds immediately
At athletic events and assemblies
 to practice good sportsmanship as spectators and participants
 to show respect towards coaches, referees, and visiting teams
 to maintain an appropriate silence during special performances
Outside school
 to behave responsibly off school property

If the principal is made aware of misconduct off school property of a child recognized to be a student in Assumption School, parents may be contacted; however, it is important to note that the school is not responsible for students’ actions that occur off school property.

Principals will forward disciplinary notices given by public school bus drivers to parents to support the disciplinary report of the bus driver.
Consequences
Please be aware that any disrespect, destructive act, or inappropriate behavior will be dealt with accordingly. If an individual student does not meet his/her personal responsibility for good conduct, the
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
school may discipline the student.
The severity or repetitive nature of non-compliance to the above expectations will determine the appropriate consequences. To remediate unacceptable behavior, the following actions may be taken:
Teacher/student conference to develop a plan for remediation
Notification to parents
Administrative referral
Loss of recess
Detention
Referral to the SAP Team

7.
8.
9.
Denial of participation in school activities, including sports
School probation, or
Suspension.
The following behaviors will result in immediate administrative referrals and can result in referrals to law enforcement or other government agencies:

Violations of weapons policy

Violations of the drug/alcohol policy

Any purposeful action that results in bodily harm to another

Cyberbullying
Consequences for the Primary and Intermediate students follow these general guidelines:
1 st
Offense: Verbal or written warning
2 nd
Offense: Loss of one recess period or free period
3 rd
Offense: Loss of 2 nd
recess period
4 th
Offense: Call home to parent
5 th
Offense: Referred to principal
The Middle School students use the following demerit system.
Assumption Middle School Demerit Policy
Assumption Faculty is dedicated to student success and growth, both academic and spiritual. Because student behavior and a quality, accepting learning environment are interrelated, our school holds high expectations concerning student conduct.
Middle School students are transitioning from self-centeredness to maturity. Peer influence is at its height. Behavior expectations must be clear, fair and consistent.
Middle age students are learning to accept responsibility for their actions; so, in turn consequences for misbehaviors must also be clear, fair and consistent
The goals of our Middle School Demerit Policies are to:

Set standards of expected behaviors

Ensure a positive and safe learning environment

Holds students accountable for their actions

Increase student morale

Teach students to act as Jesus did

To emphasis the Great Commandment as the guideline to all behavior: Love God with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.
Demerits will be given for the following infractions:
Not bringing required materials to class
Disrupting class (including not arriving at class on time)
Showing disrespect to teachers, staff or other adults
Showing disrespect to peers or bullying peers
Showing disrespect in church
Nor following classroom, hall, cafeteria, or playground procedures
Bringing inappropriate materials to school, e.g., magazines
Using inappropriate language
Use of phones, earbuds or any technological device while in the school building or McGovern Hall unless use is monitored by a teacher or staff member.

The first 2 demerits will serve as warnings. After the 3 rd
demerit, a one-hour after school detention must be served.
A one-hour detention will be served after every demerit following the 3 rd
, during the same grading period.
If a student reaches the 5 th
demerit in one grading period, a conference will be held with the student, parent, teacher and principal.
Also, if a student receives 5 or more demerits during one grading period, that student will serve the After
School Detention as well as a 2 day Recess Detention for each demerit over 5.
Just as Jesus left us with the sacrament of Confession and the gift of Absolution, demerits will be erased after each grading period and the process will begin anew.
If a child receives a total of 15 or more during the course of the school year, a conference with his/her parent will be held concerning the withholding of end of the year privileges such as Field Day and Field
Trips.
Any student who receives no demerits during a grading period will be rewarded with a choice of a dress down day, or other privilege.
The following behaviors will result in more serious punishment:

Engaging in disruptive behavior

Cheating

Bullying, (physical, emotional or cyber) teasing or harassing another student

Fighting
If it is determined that a student has been participating in the above behaviors, the principal will contact the parent immediately. Consequences will include In School Suspension.
Positive Reinforcement
Students learn to do what is right because it is right, not out of fear of punishment.
Positive reinforcement can take many forms and will vary depending upon grade level of students. The following are some ideas that school personnel may incorporate into the yearly schedule:

Dress Down Days

Extended lunch or recess time

Teacher/principal phone call of affirmation of student efforts

A class game

An end of the year pizza party
VI. HEALTH AND SAFETY
Illness
It is often difficult to decide if your child should stay home from school when complaining of illness. An objective sign is an elevated temperature. It is recommended that a child be kept home from school until the temperature has remained normal (below 100

) for 24 hours.
If a child has a temperature of 100° or more, skin rash, pink eye, diarrhea/vomiting, strep throat, or evidence of lice, the child will be sent home. Parents are asked to use discretion in sending their children to school if they display any of these symptoms. Please inform the school office if your child becomes sick with a contagious illness. Notes will be sent home with the other children to warn parents of contact

and incubation of communicable diseases.
Accident and Injury
In the case of accident or illness at school, parents are contacted to take the child home, to the doctor, or hospital. It is important for your child's safety and comfort, as well as the effective operation of the office that emergency information needed to locate parents is available for each child and that this information is kept up-to-date by parents.
Parents of children who have any type of medical concerns should contact the principal, school nurse, or teachers to make them aware of the problem. All cases of head lice should be reported immediately.
4.
Medication
Whenever possible, medicine is to be given at home, and parents are to request the physician to adjust the schedule for administration so that it can be given before and after school hours.
If medicine must be administered at school, the following guidelines apply:
1.
2.
The medication must be delivered to the school by a responsible adult along with a physician's written request for distribution by school personnel.
Medication brought to school must be in a container labeled by a pharmacist or doctor. The label
3.
must include the student's name, the name of the physician, date of prescription, dosage, and frequency of administration. These medications will be kept in the office.
Parents must sign an Indemnity Agreement, which has been prepared by the Legal Office and distributed through the school office.
The medication must be self-administered.
Fire Drills/Shelter in Place
Fire drills are held monthly. Exit directions, which are posted in prominent places in each room, are to be followed. No one--teacher, student or other personnel--may remain in the building during fire drills.
When the students hear the bell, they are to leave the room quickly and quietly in single file. Students remain in their designated areas until summoned back to class.
Students are to remain in absolute silence during all fire drills. Misconduct of any nature is to be reported to the principal. This is a very serious offense and will be dealt with immediately.
In case of severe weather, students are taken to the lowest level of the school building, where they sit with heads down while facing the wall. A Shelter in Place drill is held at least once a year.
School Nurse/Nurse Practitioner
One school nurse is assigned to Assumption School each year and is present in the building once a week. She is available in any emergency situations. The responsibilities of the school nurse include:

Keeping updated health records for all students.


Screening students for hearing—grades K, 1 st
, 2 nd
, 3 rd
, and 7 th
.
Assuring the completion of a physical examination before entrance to school and in the 6

Screening students for vision—yearly.

Scoliosis screening—grade 7. th
grade

Recording height and weight for students—yearly.

Recording required immunizations. (Seventh grade: Hepatitis B and 1 dose chicken pox vaccine.)

Requiring proof of required vaccinations before admission to school.

Dentist/Dental Hygienist
The Pennsylvania School Health Law requires dental examinations for students entering grades K, 3 rd
and
7 th
. These grades were selected because they represent critical periods of development in a child's life.
We recommend that your family dentist do these examinations. School dental health evaluations will be provided for students who do not furnish proof of a private dental examination within the last six months.
These forms are given out to the students before school ends so that appointments can be scheduled over the summer.
Bullying and Harassment Policy
Because we care about the happiness, health, and safety of children, this policy is being established to address the problems of bullying and harassment if they occur at Assumption School. Bullying and harassment can appear in either physical or verbal form and are damaging to children.
Under the discipline code, harassment of another student would possibly be a major offense as determined by the principal, teacher, or other school staff who witnesses this action. However, incidents of bullying and harassment frequently occur when an adult is not present to witness them, but these need to be dealt with as well.
Therefore, when a report of either bullying or harassment that has not been witnessed by an adult, the following procedure will be used after the report has been verified. It is the administration’s responsibility to investigate thoroughly any reports of bullying.

First Report: The parents will be called and a conference will take place involving the principal, teacher, student and parents. Details of the first report will be documented.
 Second Report: One day’s in school suspension. Details documented.

Third Report: Three days In School Suspension

Fourth Report: One day out of school suspension with the possibility of expulsion. Details of the fourth report will be documented and sent to the Catholic School’s Office.

5 th
Report: Expulsion
Assumption School incorporates the Olweus No Bullying Program.
Diocesan Policy 603.1: Suspension of students
A student may be temporarily suspended by the principal for a serious infraction of school regulations or for repeated detentions. The length of suspensions should be from one to ten days. All suspensions become effective only after the principal meets with the parent and the parent receives a notice of suspension.
However, no prior notice is needed if health, safety or the welfare of the school community is threatened.
The original Notice of Suspension is kept on file in the principal’s office and a copy is given to the parent.
This document will not only explain why the student was suspended but will also contain an agreement among the student, parent and the principal describing the student’s future cooperation in a program designed to resolve the student’s problems.
Suspensions should be held in school, and the student not marked absent unless the offense is particularly egregious, in which case, out of school suspension is the remedy. Out of school suspensions follow the same guidelines as an in school suspension except that the time should not exceed more than 3 days during which time assignments are given in the various subject areas. The parent will meet during this period with the principal and teachers to define expectations upon the student’s return. When there is an out of school suspension/expulsion the Educational Consultant should receive a copy of Notice of Suspension/Expulsion mailed to the Diocesan School’s office.
Diocesan Policy 603.1 (cont) Expulsion of students
Expulsion is a severe punishment and should be applied only as a last resort and after serious deliberation.
The expulsion process is as follows:
Every attempt should be made during earlier offenses to provide guidance to the student and parent under the direction of the principal and pastor.
Although the authority for expulsion rests with the principal and pastor, consultation should be made with the Superintendent of Catholic Schools prior to any final decision.

Reasons for which a student might be expelled are:

Extremely grave infraction of school regulations such as selling or using drugs or alcohol, the bringing of knives, guns or other weapons into the school, physical abuse of students or staff, theft, indecent behavior or arson.

Chronic undesirable conduct detrimental to the physical and/or moral well being of self or other students.

Continued malicious disobedience or disrespect for school authority

Continued refusal by parent and/or student to comply with school policies.
The decision to expel a student is a very serious one. Expulsion will be used in those situations where, in the sole discretion of the school, it is viewed as the necessary remedy
.
School Safety Policy Vision Statement:
Assumption School is committed to making sure that all students are given the opportunity to learn in a safe and supportive environment. Teachers and administrators will work together with each other and people in the community, including law enforcement officials, to ensure that student safety is a priority. Teachers and staff members are expected to show concern for their pupils. Students are expected to behave in an orderly fashion. If a student has a concern about his or her safety, they are encouraged to bring it to the attention of a teacher or the principal, so that appropriate action may be taken.
Visitors to School:

All outside doors are locked at all times.

Student arrival and dismissal times are monitored by principal or teachers.

Visitors must enter through the office door. An authorized adult will open the door. Students are not permitted to open the door for anyone.

Cameras are positioned at the Jackson Ave. and School Office doors.

If the visitor is not known to the adult answering the door, ID must be shown and the visitor must state the purpose of visit before the door will be opened.
 All visitors must sign in at the office and must wear a visitor’s pass. This includes parents who are remaining in the school for any length of time. Children are instructed to alert a teacher if they see anyone in the school without a pass. Teachers and staff are instructed to question anyone in the school who does not have a pass.

Any adult working directly with the children must have submitted up to date clearances to the office.

Steps in Clearance Process: o State Police Clearance through diocesan database only o Child Abuse Clearance o Protecting God’s Children Workshop o Code of Pastoral Conduct booklet read and signed o Abuse Reporting booklet Read and signed o Federal Clearance (fingerprinting) or waiver signed

Parents or guardians must sign children into the school if tardy and must sign child out in case of early dismissal.
Classroom Safety


All classroom doors lock and teachers are in possession of keys.

All classrooms have working blinds that can be quickly lowered.

All classroom doors have the ability to cover the window portion quickly.

Students and teachers participate in periodic drills so as to practice the procedures to be followed in case of a lock down.

2 areas of evacuation have been established.

No students are to have cell phones with them during drills or lock downs.

All teachers have cell phones available and on hand so as to alert authorities and to stay in touch with administration and with one another in case of emergency.

All teachers have access to a walkie talkie.

The OneCall phone and/or email system would be used to alert parents as to any emergency situation as soon as safely possible.

Each teacher and staff member has a walkie talkie and a Go Bag
Fire Safety

Fire drills are held monthly.

All students evacuate to McGovern Hall or other designated area on the property.

Fire extinguishers and alarm systems are inspected on a regular basis\.Fire exits are clearly labeled in each classroom

Teachers take class list to hall

Fire alarms bell acts as notification of drill
Chemical Spill or Bomb Threat

Evacuate to McGovern Hall.
Shelter in Place

All students report to the bottom level of the school.

Drills are held periodically so that all students know their spots and the proper position to maintain. (facing wall, away from windows, head and body as low as possible.)

Notified over PA system: “Shelter in Place”
Safety in McGovern Hall

All outside doors are locked when students are in the hall.

A system that would alert the children to be quiet and listen is in place .

Evacuation point : police station
Playground Safety

Two playground monitors are on duty at all times.

A bullhorn and whistles are to be used in case of emergency.

Both monitors have keys to both entrances of the school.
Safety from Bullying
Bullying is an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student which occurs in a school setting, that is severe, persistent or pervasive and that has the effect of a) substantially interfering with a student’s education b) creating a threatening environment or c) substantially disrupting the orderly operation of a school.

A school entity shall not be prohibited from defining bullying in such a way as to encompass acts that occur outside a school setting if those acts meet the other requirements specified in the definition of bullying. The first time a bullying situation occurs out of school, no consequences shall be given, but warnings will be presented. The second incidence will result in consequences if the situation interferes with the running of the school.
The school staff will
 provide a supportive environment that upholds Gospel values
 increase awareness of dynamics of bullying
 maintain an environment where bullying will be addressed age appropriately and with respect
 will assist in developing appropriate social skills and positive relationships and will discourage bullying behavior as unacceptable.
 encourage students to report incidents of bullying and support hem in dealing with the resolution
 support, monitor and act upon all reports of bullying
 emphasize intervention strategies that are preventative in nature
 recognize that some bullying behavior may be more serious and require more comprehensive intervention
 keep open lines of communication between home, school and parish.
Students are expected to:
 promote a positive, caring environment
 refuse to bully others or to be a bystander to acts of bullying
 report acts of bullying that they experience or observe
 assist and co-operate in the implementation of school wide anti-bullying initiatives
Parents and visitors are expected to:
 develop an awareness of bullying issues
 inform the school if bullying is suspected
 support the school when resolving the identified incidents of bullying
Bullying Discipline Policy

Reports of bullying must be made to teachers or principal as soon as possible after the bullying incident occurred.

Investigation of bullying behaviors will be made in a timely manner

Bullying that happens outside of the school day will be looked into and consequences will be served if the bullying interferes with the daily running of the school.

A student who violates the bullying policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action which may include o Counseling within the Intermediate Unit of the school o o
Parental conference
Loss of school privileges

o o o o o o
Exclusion from school sponsored activities
Detention
Suspension
Expulsion
Counseling outside of Intermediate Unit or school
Referral to law enforcement officials

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