THE GILL ST. BERNARD’S SCHOOL
INFORMATION HANDBOOK
A Letter from the Headmaster
Dear Parents and Students:
The Gill St. Bernard’s Information Handbook contains a great deal of relevant information about GSB. I hope it will answer many of the questions you might have about our program, requirements, rules and general expectations. If you have any additional questions however, it is always better to ask first, and act second. Therefore, please do not hesitate to call the appropriate administrator at the school if you have a question or a concern.
At Gill St. Bernard’s, we strive to provide our students with an environment conducive to learning, as well as one which fosters good citizenship. GSB is committed to working with intelligent and capable young people who:
-want to achieve success in higher education;
-can think critically and analytically;
-will act with integrity and compassion;
-will participate in extracurricular activities;
-want to become responsible and productive citizens in the communities of which they are members.
We expect our students to respect each other, their teachers and the campus. We ask for, and depend on, the support of everyone in our community to help us to both create and sustain this special environment. Our core values are embodied in the Honor Statement, which was adopted in 2004, and our Mission Statement which are included in this handbook.
I look forward to your participation in the various activities at Gill St. Bernard’s School. With the cooperation and enthusiasm of all the members of our school community, we are sure to have a successful year.
S. A. Rowell
Headmaster
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August
2012-2013 Academic Calendar
20 Monday Fall Pre-Season begins for Athletes Grades 9-12
29 Wednesday Orientation for New MS & US students and Rising Grades 5 & 9
30 Thursday Orientation for Primary & Kindergarten
Orientation for New Students Grades 1-4
Orientation for Grades 7-8 (Off Campus)
Orientation for Grades 9-12
September
3 Monday
4 Tuesday
Labor Day – All Divisions Closed
First Day of Classes
17 Monday Rosh Hashanah - All Divisions Closed
26 Wednesday Yom Kippur - All Divisions Closed
October
15 Monday Professional Development Day – No Classes
November
2 Friday
20 Tuesday
26 Monday
December
21 Friday
January
7 Monday
18 Friday
21 Monday
February
8 Friday
15 Friday
18 Monday
March
8 Friday
Parent Conferences Primary-12 – No Classes
Thanksgiving Holiday Begins at Close of School
Classes Resume for all Divisions
Winter Break Begins at Close of School
Classes Resume for All Divisions
Primary - 12 No Classes (Possible Make Up Snow Day)
US/MS Make up Exam Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day – All Divisions Closed
Parent Conferences Primary-12 - No Classes
Professional Development Day - No Classes (Possible Snow Make Up Day)
Presidents Day – All Divisions Closed
Spring Break Begins At Close of School
25 Monday
29 Friday
May
27 Monday
June
2 Sunday
4 Tuesday
5 Wednesday
Classes Resume for All Divisions
Good Friday – All Divisions Closed
Memorial Day - All Divisions Closed
Commencement
Lower School Closing Exercises
Middle School Closing Exercises
Last Day of School
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Table of Contents
Mission Statement …………………………………………………………………………..….4
The Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement ……………….……………………….…………….4
Accreditation ………………………..……………………………………………………..……4
Administration of the School …………….…………………………………………….……….4
Parents and Independent Schools
Parents and the Board of Trustees
Parents and the Faculty and Administration
Community Standards…………………………………………………………………………6
Guidelines for Parents…………………………………………………………………………6
Admissions………………………………………………………………………………………7
Open House Schedule
Procedures
Business Office Procedures…………………………………………………………………….8
School Store
Tuition Payment
Late Fee and Overdue Accounts
Lunch Program
School Closings
Student Accident Insurance
Transportation
School Equipment and Property
Notifications
Development …………………………………………………………………………………..16
Parents’ Association
Publications
School Activities and Fundraising
Fundraising Guidelines
Health Services………………………………………………………………………………….19
Health Care Requirements and Immunization
Management of Severe Allergies at School
Health Guidelines
Students with Communicable Diseases
Policy on Reporting Disciplinary Information ……………………………………………….23
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy………………………………………………23
Substance Abuse …………………………...…………………………………………………..25
Technology ……………………………………………...………………………………………25
Visitors ……..………………………………………...…………………………………………28
Definition
Policy
Upper School Table of Contents……………………………………………………………….31
Middle School Table of Contents……………………………………………………………...63
Lower School Table of Contents……………………………………………………………….87
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MISSION STATEMENT
Gill St. Bernard’s School is an independent, non-sectarian, college preparatory day school for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. We teach students to become life-long learners and thoughtful, responsible citizens and leaders in their communities, our nation and the world. We strive to foster academic and extracurricular excellence in every student inside and outside the classroom. In all aspects of school life we value integrity, compassion, and respect for others.
Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement
(Adopted 2004)
“As members of the Gill St. Bernard’s School community, we believe that faith, honor and consideration are the foundation of an open and trusting environment. In affirming this belief, we endeavor to uphold the following ideals:
Respect for all individual community members and their beliefs;
Integrity, truthfulness and sportsmanship in our academic and extracurricular pursuits;
Responsibility for our actions;
Service to the school and our communities.
In affirming these ideals, we strive to uphold and strengthen bonds of trust and friendship among all individuals who are now, and in the future, members of the community.
ACCREDITATION
Gill St. Bernard’s School is a fully accredited member of the New Jersey Association of
Independent Schools and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The school maintains active membership in the National Association of Independent Schools, the National
Association of College Admission Counselors, SSATB, and the Educational Records Bureau.
ADMINISTRATION OF THE SCHOOL
Gill St. Bernard’s is a non-profit, educational corporation, governed by an elected board of trustees. The board is comprised of from 16 to 27 members, no more than three-fourths of whom may be current parents. Board members are elected to a three-year term and may serve a maximum of two terms. There may be as many as seven “Stronghold Trustees” who may serve more than two terms.
The administration of the school is the responsibility of a board-appointed Headmaster. This chief school official is assisted by an administrative team that consists of the directors of the
Upper (Grades 9-12), Middle (Grades 5-8), and Lower (Grades Pre-Kindergarten – 4) divisions, director of studies, business manager, athletic director, director of college guidance, director of admission, director of external affairs, Dean of Students, the faculty and the staff.
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Parents and Independent Schools
To be successful, every independent school needs and expects the cooperation of its parents who must understand and embrace the school’s mission, share its core values and fully support its curriculum, faculty and staff. When joined by a common set of beliefs and purposes, an independent school and its parents form a powerful team with far-reaching positive effects on children.
Working together, parents and school professionals exert a strong influence on children to become better educated; they also help them to mature by modeling appropriate adult working relationships based upon civility, honesty and respect.
In practice, the greatest impediment to effective teamwork between independent schools and parents grows out of misunderstandings about school decision-making processes: Who makes decisions in independent schools? How are those decisions made? Independent schools must communicate their procedures to parents, who in turn, share the important responsibility to become informed members of the school community.
Parents and the Board of Trustees
In most independent schools, decision-making authority at the highest level resides in a volunteer board of trustees whose membership often includes current parents. The board of trustees does not intervene in the daily affairs of the school, such as curriculum development and hiring, evaluating, or firing of faculty and staff. Instead, the board focuses on those areas critical to the success of any independent school; it develops broad institutional policies that guide the head in running the school; and it is accountable for the financial well-being of the school. In the conduct of its official business, the board acts only as a whole; individual trustees have no authority to act unless specifically authorized to do so by the board acting as a whole.
GSB encourages parents who are interested school governance to stay informed about the work of the board of trustees by reading school publications, talking to the Headmaster and attending appropriate parent meetings.
Parents with concerns about the school or with decisions made by the administration or faculty are encouraged to inquire about and follow the school’s review process, but they should not expect the board of trustees to act as an appeals board. In a day school, trustees often interact with others within the school community and hear concerns about the daily operation of the school. As a matter of good practice, the trustee reports those concerns to the Headmaster.
Parents, Faculty and Administration
Parents play an essential and positive role in the life of an independent school. Not only are parents advocates for their children, they also support the faculty and administration through extensive volunteer activities and events.
The relationship between parents and the faculty and administration is formally governed by the school’s written enrollment contract and information handbook, in which its procedures are spelled out. When parents choose to enroll their child in an independent school, they agree to subscribe to its mission, follow its rules, and abide by its decisions. However, most teachers and administrators would agree that trust and mutual respect are the essential underpinnings of effective working relationships with parents.
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GSB encourages parents to work productively with teachers and administrators by staying informed about their child and important events in the life of the school. In an effort to make our school greener, the majority of school correspondence will be sent by e-mail including some development correspondence and Friday Folder information in the Middle and Lower School.
Thoughtful questions and suggestions are welcomed. It is incumbent upon the school to provide parents with timely and pertinent information.
Parents can best support a school climate of trust and respect by communicating concerns openly and constructively to the teacher or administrator closest to the problem. Efforts by parents to lobby other parents will be viewed by the school as counterproductive. Questioning other children usually results in further complication the situation and is not advised.
While parents may not agree with every decision by the school, in most cases the parent and school will find enough common ground to continue a mutually respectful relationship. In the extreme case, however, an impasse may be so severe that the parent cannot remain a constructive member of the community. In such cases, both the parent and the school must consider whether another school would be a better match for the family.
COMMUNITY STANDARDS
Gill St. Bernard’s School is a small community. The involvement and contributions of each individual play an integral part in the day-to-day functioning of the school. We want each student to recognize his or her responsibility for the welfare of the school and encourage all students to respect other individuals within the community and the physical environment in which they work. The guidelines that are integral to the philosophy and welfare of Gill St.
Bernard’s School are few in number, but are considered very important:
 Compliance with the school’s program, personnel, regulations and routines;

Honesty in all personal and academic endeavors;

Consideration and respect for the health and well-being of others at all times;

Respect for all property— that of individuals and that of the school.
These community standards also apply to all school-sanctioned activities that take place off the school’s campus. Students, at appropriate grade levels, should be familiar with school policy regarding important areas of social conduct described in their respective divisional sections within this handbook.
GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS

Be familiar with respect and support the mission, policies, and procedures of the school.

Respect the decisions and policies of the school and communicate concerns directly to the appropriate teacher, advisor or, if necessary, the divisional director.

Establish a partnership with faculty and administration to develop a strategy for your child’s success.

Support and participate in school activities, and encourage your child to do so as well.

Respect the individuality and diversity of all members of the school community.
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
Model integrity and responsible behavior, recognizing their effect on our children and on the larger community.

Encourage and support the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Respect the privacy of other families and students in the school community.

Communicate openly and honestly with other families in the school community regarding the health, safety, and well being of our children.

Respect the special role of teachers and their work with children by not remaining in hallways during school hours.

Appreciate the community standards by only conveying the “good word” about personnel in the school. Concerns and questions should not be discussed openly with other parents or faculty without giving faculty and administration the opportunity to address any important issues. Students often follow our example, and gossip is almost always destructive and hurtful. It is strongly discouraged because it is counter to maintaining a professional environment and supportive atmosphere for students.
ADMISSIONS
Parents are our greatest source of referrals. In fact, close to 80% of all independent school families report that they found their school through word-of-mouth. Current family enthusiasm for GSB is our most effective recruitment tool and the composition of our student body directly influences the overall quality of the educational experience for everyone. Please encourage interested families to contact the admission office or share the Open House Schedule below.
Open House Schedule
Open House Program for Middle and Upper Schools (Grades 5-12)
Registration at 1:00 p.m
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Tuesday Tours for Lower School (Primary-Grade 4)
Tours offered once a month at 9:00 a.m. to view school in session
Please call for information, EXT. 245
Admissions Procedure
Applications are processed throughout the year for entry the following fall but begin in earnest in late fall. The majority of admission offers are made in early March. Applications are processed after March as space permits.
The official admission process begins with the submission of an application and $75 application fee. Parents are required to complete a parent interview with an admission associate. Student applicants are required to visit for a full school day. Each applicant must also undergo admission testing.
Applicants for Grades Pre-K – 4 are evaluated during their school day visit.
Applicants for Grade 5 are tested on a Saturday morning in January (TBD).
Applicants for Grades 6 – 12 take the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) or ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam).
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SSAT administered at GSB :
Please call for information EXT. 245
Applications are available on the GSB website under Admissions .
If you would like more information or to share contact information for a prospective student, please do not hesitate to call the admission office at 908-234-1611, extension 245 .
Karen Loder, Director of Admission
Jane Boyer, Associate Admission Director
Ext. 247 Middle and Upper School
Ext. 260 Lower School
BUSINESS OFFICE PROCEDURES
School Store
The School Store is currently located in Hockenbury. The hours are 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., M-F.
The school store has a selection of hot and cold breakfast food as well as coffee, juice and water.
It also offers a limited amount of classroom supplies, such as pencils, pens, paper, and binders as well as GSB gift items and GSB logo apparel, including appropriate gym clothing. Satellite stores in the Lower School and Athletic Center will operate independently. Their hours will be posted. Middle and Lower School students should not go to the store in Hockenbury.
A list of student textbooks will be available on the school website at the beginning of the summer. The school has contracted with an on-line textbook provider, www.myschoolbookstore.com
, for families to order the proper textbooks for the school year.
Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this service. If you purchase textbooks from another provider, you are cautioned that, due to revisions by textbook providers, certain editions may not be correct. The website www.myschoolbookstore.com
guarantees that students will receive the correct textbooks.
Tuition Payment
Financial Obligations
Gill St. Bernard’s offers Enrollment Agreements to families who have been accepted to the school. The agreements outline the financial obligations of the families to the school. Payment of the tuition for the academic year is required, subject to the Cancellation Rules below, regardless of the subsequent absence, withdrawal or dismissal of this student from the school, for any reason whatsoever.
Tuition Payment Plan
The School offers several methods for tuition and fee payments. Families may choose a single payment plan that is payable in August directly to the school. Enrollment in the Tuition Refund
Insurance Plan (as described below) is optional for families choosing the single payment option.
Families may also choose to enroll in the multi-payment plan offered through Tuition
Management Systems. Enrollment in the Tuition Refund Insurance Plan is required for the
Tuition Management Systems flexible tuition payment plans and is automatically completed by the school upon the receipt of the contract. The cost of the tuition refund insurance is 1% of the
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net tuition (tuition less any financial aid). The insurance premium will be billed separately by
Gill St. Bernard’s School in July and is payable in its entirety by August 1st.
Cancellation Rules
If the school receives written notification from the parent before May 1st, the Enrollment
Agreement may be cancelled. The school will retain the non-refundable reservation deposit and the parent will be released from the Enrollment Agreement and its financial obligation. The parent will still be obligated for any unpaid balances from previous academic years, if applicable.
If the school receives written notification of the student’s withdrawal after May 1st, the parent shall be unconditionally obligated to pay the full annual tuition per the Enrollment Agreement.
It is further understood that no portion of such tuition will be refunded, canceled, or withheld notwithstanding any subsequent, withdrawal, suspension, or dismissal of the student from the school. These cancellation rules shall apply regardless of the reason of cancellation, whether for absence, withdrawal, dismissal, or otherwise after May 1.
Incidental Expenses
Tuition fees cover lunch and student accident insurance only. The cost of textbooks, test fees, student activity fees, lab fees, supplies from the student store, busing, UNIT trips, elective extracurricular activities such as dances or some trips, athletic equipment, gym uniforms, identification badges, and other similar expenses will be charged where applicable to the student’s account on a monthly basis. Such expenses must be paid in full upon receipt of the monthly statement. If these incidental expenses are not paid in full, charging privileges will be suspended until the account becomes current and all incidental expenses will need to be paid when incurred.
Late Fee and Overdue Accounts
Any tuition payments and incidental expenses owed to the School are subject to a late fee.
Tuition is due as described in the Enrollment Agreement. The student will not be allowed to attend classes and the student’s place will be forfeited if tuition is not current at any time. All incidental expenses as described above are due within 30 days of the statement date, after which an account is considered delinquent A late fee of 1 ½% per month (18% per annum) or, if less, the highest rate allowed by law, may be charged on delinquent tuition and incidental expenses.
When an account becomes past due for a period of 60 days or more from the statement date, the student, at the sole discretion of the Headmaster, will not be allowed to attend classes, take midterm or final exams, continue to be a student at the school or graduate. In addition, the school may refuse to issue transcripts or reports. In the event of a delinquent account, the school may pursue any remedy necessary against the parent under the Enrollment Agreement. The parent will bear all related attorney’s fees and expenses associated with the collection of delinquent accounts.
Lunch Program
The school offers a cafeteria-style lunch program included as part of tuition. The daily menu includes an assortment of juices, milk, two salad bars, a sandwich bar, homemade soup, a choice of hot entrees, fresh fruit and yogurt. The menu is posted weekly on the school website under the “Parents” tab. The menu is reviewed for nutritional value and rotated monthly. A Food
Committee comprised of students, faculty and administrators, meets on a regular basis to discuss
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ways to enhance the food service both in quality and nutrition. We welcome your comments on this program and are committed to its success.
Use of the dining room by students is limited to the assigned lunch period, unless special arrangements are made through the Division Director and Business Office. Food, trays, and other items should not be taken out of the dining room and students should not take excessive amounts of food or items to be used as “snacks” later in the day. The beverage dispensers are not in use other than during the lunch periods and will be shut off at all other times. Taking of any food except at lunchtime will be considered an honor code violation and subject to disciplinary action.
School Closings
Inclement Weather
GSB uses an automated notification system to notify all parents about school closings, early dismissals and delayed openings due to inclement weather. The notification system will broadcast a message to home, office and cellular phone numbers if supplied. Parents are asked to confirm the accuracy of their current home, cellular and business phone numbers with the school. The notification system will send the message from the main phone number of the school. If your telephone has a feature that screens or prevents automated calls, this service may not function properly. In this case, parents are encouraged to check if school is in session by either contacting the school’s main phone number (908-234-1611) to hear the recorded message with the necessary information, or by checking the website ( www.gsbschool.org
) where a message will be displayed on the GSB homepage.
Student Accident Insurance
The school provides supplementary Student Accident Insurance for all students as part of the tuition fee. This insurance is to assist families with additional insurance beyond their personal health insurance for medical expenses not covered by other insurance for accidents during school or school-related activities. Please refer to the policy for details of coverage or contact the
Business Office for information on how to contact the insurance company.
Transportation
Gill St Bernard’s school uses a variety of busing services to transport students to and from campus. The students who are eligible to use the buses come from over twenty different towns that span five different counties.
The traditional bus routes that are provided by the local public school districts are the preferred modes of transportation. Students are required to apply each year for the bus services provided by these districts. This is done through the completion of the B6T Application for Private
School Transportation form that is completed by the parent and submitted to the school district by GSB. The school districts are governed by the transportation eligibility guidelines as set forth by the New Jersey Department of Education. School districts have the option of either offering busing to students or providing the families with a reimbursement to offset the cost of transportation. The school districts are responsible for designing the bus routes and setting the pick-up/drop-off times for the students. Many of the school districts rely upon outside busing
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contractors to provide the busing service. These contractors bid on the bus routes each year and the school and parents are notified in writing in August as to whether they will receive transportation or a reimbursement.
In addition, GSB offers several fee based centralized bus routes for students. In the evening, students in the Middle School and Upper School are allowed to use the late buses that the school provides at no cost to its families.
The following is a summary of the current busing services at GSB.
Chester Township Busing
Chester Township currently offers two bus routes for students living within its school district.
Most of these students live on the northeast side of the township along the Mendham border. It also transports students in the neighborhoods bordering Rte 517 by Pottersville and Fairmount.
The bus route design and decision-making are done at the West Morris School District
Transportation Office. This service is offered to the eligible students free of charge.
Essex-Union Busing
This is a fee-based centralized bus service that is offered to residents of Essex and Union
Counties and the surrounding area. There are currently stops in Newark, West Orange, Short
Hills, and Berkeley Heights along the Route 78 corridor. The route is designed to provide centralized pick-up/drop-off locations for students at designated times. Registration for this bus service is usually offered in May with a deposit due before the school year ends. The school has determined that a minimum of ten students be registered for the bus before it will contract for the bus. Once there are ten students registered, the school will contract with a bus company for the bus. The cost of the bus is divided evenly by the number of students that register for the bus.
GSB invoices the parents in October for the cost of the bus. For information on the current fees for this bus please contact the Business Office.
Hunterdon County Busing
This is a fee-based centralized bus service that is offered to residents of Hunterdon County and the surrounding area. It currently uses three centralized locations, in Clinton, Whitehouse and
Branchburg. The route is designed to provide centralized pick-up/drop-off locations for students at designated times. Registration for this bus service is usually offered in May with a deposit due before the school year ends. The school has determined that a minimum of ten students be registered for the bus before it will contract for the bus. Once there are ten students registered, the school contracts with the bus company for the bus. The cost of the bus is divided evenly by the number of students that register for the bus. GSB invoices the parents in October for the cost of the bus. For information on the current fees for this bus please contact the Business Office.
Mendham Township Busing
Mendham Township currently offers two bus routes for students living in the Mendham
Township and Mendham Boro areas. It also extends courtesy busing to students living in the
Randolph area who are required to drive to a bus stop in Mendham Township. The bus route
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design and decision-making are done at the Mendham Township Transportation Office. This service is offered to the eligible students free of charge.
Morris Area Busing
This is a fee-based centralized bus service that is offered to residents of Morris County and the surrounding area. It currently uses centralized locations in Pequonnock, Boonton, East Hanover and Whippany. The route is designed to provide centralized pick-up/drop-off locations for students at designated times. Registration for this bus service is usually offered in May with a deposit due before the school year ends. The school has determined that a minimum of ten students be registered for the bus before it will contract for the bus. Once there are ten students registered the school contracts with the bus company for the bus. The cost of the bus is divided evenly by the number of students that register for the bus. GSB invoices the parents in October for the cost of the bus. For information on the current fees for this bus please contact the
Business Office.
Somerset County Busing
Several of the school districts located within Somerset County have relied upon an independent agency, the Somerset County Educational Services Commission (ESC), to handle their transportation. These school districts include, but are not limited to, Bernards Township
(Basking Ridge area), Somerset Hills (Bernardsville, Far Hills, Peapack/Gladstone areas),
Bedminster, Bridgewater/Martinsville, Watchung Hills, and Branchburg (Lamington Road area).
The ESC designs, bids-out, and is responsible for the bus routes. It tries to design the routes to travel through several school districts to efficiently provide transportation for as many students as possible within the state guidelines. This service is offered to the eligible students free of charge.
Late Bus Service
GSB offers a late bus service free of charge to all students in the Middle and Upper Schools.
The bus service runs everyday except when after-school activities are cancelled. Students do not have to sign up for the buses and may use them on any day. The buses leave at 5:40 p.m. every afternoon from the Old Gymnasium. The buses each have designated central drop-off locations.
The routes are designed to bring students to as many locations in different directions while limiting the time spent on the bus to approximately ninety minutes.
Bus Conduct and Safety
Part of safe bus transportation involves appropriate behavior on the bus. Loud, rude or boisterous behavior is not permitted. There is absolutely no smoking allowed on any bus at any time. It is also expected that parents will conduct themselves appropriately when dealing with drivers and bus companies. All other school rules are also in effect. A student who behaves inappropriately on any of the buses will face disciplinary action, including not being allowed to ride the bus.

Students are expected to behave in a safe and proper manner. Unacceptable behavior, as defined in the Student Handbook, will not be tolerated. Students exhibiting unacceptable behavior will be (1) warned, (2) a letter will be sent home to the parents, (3) phone contact home and possible revocation of transportation privileges without a refund.
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
Students are required to wear safety belts at all times while riding on the bus unless told otherwise by the driver.

Students are required to remain in their seats at all times while riding on the bus.
Students are required to obey all rule/safety regulations set forth by the driver of the bus. The bus driver has the right to report any misconduct to the school for disciplinary action.
POLICY
School Equipment and Property
School equipment and property should be treated with proper care at all times. Students who fail to exercise responsibility with school equipment will be assessed damages or replacement costs.
If the damage was intentional, disciplinary action will also result. To all 13-17 year-olds: New
Jersey law says that if you deface any surface with graffiti you may have your motor vehicle and/or motorized bicycle driving privileges postponed, suspended, or revoked for one year!
Lockers and Storage Spaces
All lockers and storage spaces are the property of the school. They are loaned to students for the storage of school related equipment and clothing only. Such areas may be periodically inspected by school officials to make sure that the usage is proper and that everything is kept in good order. Anything discovered in such inspections that violate school rules will result in disciplinary action. In the case of drugs, alcohol, or a weapon of any kind, the student will face dismissal from school.
Locks should be used by students in Grades 5-12 on gym lockers and on book lockers. Only locks owned and registered by the school may be used. Students are responsible for returning the locks to the designated authority at the close of school in June. Any non-school lock may be removed from a locker at any time by school officials. The school is not responsible for any personal items left in lockers. Students are responsible for emptying their lockers after their last final exam. Any items left in lockers will be disposed of, and the school bears no responsibility for such items.
Notifications
Asbestos Notification
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) 40 CFR 763 requires all schools from
Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12 to conduct inspections to determine if the materials used to construct the buildings contain asbestos. In compliance with the law, Gill St. Bernard’s has conducted these tests and has developed an Asbestos Management Plan which details the inspection findings, and outlines the response actions. The plan has been filed with the New
Jersey State Department of Health and a copy is available in the Business Office.
In addition, in compliance with the AHERA laws, Gill St. Bernard’s School has retained the services of a certified environmental firm to perform inspections every six months and update our plan every three (3) years. The results of these inspections are available in the Business
Office.
Integrated Pest Management
Notice for 2010-2011
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This notice is being distributed to comply with the New Jersey School Integrated Pest
Management Act. As required by law, Gill St. Bernard’s School has adopted an Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) Policy and has implemented an IPM Plan to comply with this law (see below). IPM is a holistic, preventive approach to managing pests that is explained further in the school’s IPM Policy outlined in the Faculty/Staff and Student Handbooks for 2010-2011.
As part of a school pest management plan, Gill St. Bernard’s may choose to use low impact pesticides to control pests. The School’s IPM Coordinator will maintain a copy of the pesticide product label and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), if one is available, of each pesticide product that may be used on school property. The United States Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) register pesticides to determine that the use of a pesticide in accordance with instructions printed on the label does not pose an unreasonable risk to human health and the environment. Nevertheless, the
EPA and the DEP cannot guarantee that registered pesticides do not pose any risk to human health, thus unnecessary exposure to pesticides should be avoided. The EPA has issued the statement that where possible, persons who are potentially sensitive, such as pregnant women, infants and children, should avoid unnecessary pesticide exposure.
IPM Policy
The New Jersey School Integrated Pest Management Act of 2002 requires schools to implement a school integrated pest management policy. The law requires the Headmaster of a private school to implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) procedures to control pests and minimize exposure of children, faculty, and staff to pesticides. Gill St. Bernard’s shall therefore maintain an IPM plan as part of the school’s policy.
IPM Procedures for Schools
Implementation of IPM procedures will determine when to control pests and whether to use mechanical, physical, cultural, biological or chemical methods. Applying IPM principles prevents unacceptable levels of pest damage by the most economical means and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. Gill St. Bernard’s School shall consider the full range of management options, including no action at all. Non-pesticide pest management methods will be used whenever possible. The choice of using a pesticide shall be based on a review of all other available options and a determination that these options are not effective or not reasonable. When it is determined that a pesticide must be used, low impact pesticides and methods will be preferred and shall be considered for use first.
Development of IPM Plans
Gill St. Bernard’s IPM plan is a blueprint of how we will manage pests through IPM methods.
The IPM plan states the school’s goals regarding the management of pests and the use of pesticides. It reflects the school’s site-specific needs. The IPM plan shall provide a description of how each component of the school IPM policy will be implemented. For non-public schools, the development of the IPM plan shall be the responsibility of the Headmaster, Business
Manager, and Director of Operations.
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Educations/Training
The school community will be educated about potential pest problems and IPM methods used to achieve the pest management objectives. The IPM Coordinator, other school staff and pesticide applicators involved with implementation of the school IPM policy will be trained in appropriate components of IPM as it pertains to the school environment. Students’ parents/guardians will be provided information on this policy and instructed on how they can contribute to the success of the IPM program. This handbook constitutes such information.
Record Keeping
Records of pesticide use shall be maintained on site to meet the requirements of the state regulatory agency and the school board. Records shall also include, but are not limited to, pest surveillance data sheets and other not-pesticide management methods and practices utilized.
IPM Coordinator Responsibilities
The IPM Coordinator will be responsible for:
 Timely notification to students’ parents or guardians and the school staff of pesticide treatments pursuant to the School IPM Act.

Notification of safe re-entry to a pesticide treated area shall conform to the requirements of the School IPM Act.

Monitoring of pesticide applicators to ensure they follow state regulations, including licensing requirements and label precautions, and compliance with Gill St. Bernard’s
IPM Policy.
Evaluation
Annually, the Headmaster or business manager shall report to the board of trustees on the effectiveness of the school IPM plan and make recommendations for improvement as needed.
The Board of Trustees will recommend development of regulations/procedures for the implementation of this policy.
Authorizing Regulatory References
The School Integrated Pest Management Act of 2002
N.J. A.C. Title 7 Chapter 30 Subchapters 1-12
Pesticide Control Act of 1971
15

DEVELOPMENT
Parents’ Association
The Parents’ Association is made up of the parents of students at GSB; membership is automatic upon enrollment of a child in the school. The Parents’ Association is lead by the executive steering committee and the steering committee. All positions are voluntary and are held by parents of current GSB students. The Executive Steering Committee, the President, Vice-
President, Treasurer and Secretary meet with the Headmaster, Director of External Affairs,
Director of Parent Relations and Special Events and the Steering Committee monthly. The
Steering Committee is composed of committee chairs representing over 14 committees, such as
Homecoming/Family Day, Fashion Show, Room Parents, Auction/Dinner Dance, Athletic
Boosters and The Friends of the Arts, among others. During the monthly meetings the chairs report on their various activities, programs and events. Participation is voluntary, however parents are strongly encouraged to become involved with various committees as these efforts enrich the lives of all member of the GSB community.
The primary goal of the Parents’ Association is to enhance the educational experience for our students and to help generate a feeling of community among the parents, students and faculty of
Gill St. Bernard’s. It is not intended to be a vehicle for individual agendas or a vehicle for complaints.
The purpose of the Parents’ Association is to assist and be a part of the continued growth of Gill
St. Bernard’s, both socially and academically, through activities such as:
-
Sponsoring special programs, projects and events;
-
Supporting special faculty initiatives in the area of curriculum development;
Fundraising through organizing special events.
The degree to which parents support and participate in the Parents’ Association dictates the success of this organization. Participation can take the form of becoming a member of the
Executive Steering Committee, the Steering Committee, by being a committee chair, assisting and attending fundraising or social events. Encouraging parents to get involved and volunteer their time and resources will provide invaluable support for the school and helps promote GSB’s distinctive community spirit.
Publications
The GSB website ( www.gsbschool.org
) is designed for current families as well as those not yet associated with the GSB community. In addition to a calendar of activities, it provides news, announcements, schedules and other pertinent information on activities at the school.
The GSB News is a monthly electronic newsletter which publishes highlights of the many school activities taking place on and off campus. It highlights student accomplishments and serves as a more detailed news supplement to the website.
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The GSB Magazine is published three times a year and serves as the most broad-reaching publication of the school. It is mailed to all current families, alumni and other friends of the school. It includes school news, alumni notes and in-depth articles.
Numerous other publications are produced by divisions, departments and students.
School Activities and Fundraising
Parents programs
As part of our effort to strengthen home-school relationships, several programs for parents are annually presented. Early in the school year, “Back to School” programs in each division offer parents an opportunity to learn about the curriculum from the classroom teachers. Subsequent programs, such as parent coffees, often focus on topics of general interest. Parents are encouraged to visit the campus on these occasions and at other times to meet with teachers and other parents.
Fundraisers
As with any independent school, Gill St. Bernard’s annual expenses exceed income from tuition.
To address this difference in the operating budget and to help hold down tuition charges, the school conducts several fundraising activities each year. Trustee, parent and alumni volunteers are instrumental to the success of these programs and their service to the school is most valuable.
The following general rules will apply:
 All fundraisers must be submitted in writing to the Development Office for approval.

No fundraising activity can be mandatory, or perceived mandatory, for a student or his/her family.

Only one fundraising activity per week may be scheduled (e.g. bake sale, car wash).

Funds to support outside (non-GSB) organizations must be requested in writing to the
Development Office for approval under the auspices of a student organization and must have an Advisor’s signature. Solicitation of cash for non-GSB organizations from our constituents is prohibited.

Personal philanthropic interests cannot be supported directly by solicitation of GSB families.

Community Service activities are encouraged but should not be connected to a reward system that may alienate an individual because he/she does not wish to, or cannot, participate.
Call ext. 210 if you have any questions or wish to inquire about fundraising guidelines, ideas or dates you may be considering.
The Annual Fund
Operated on a July 1 – June 30 fiscal year, the annual fund is a major source of support for the operating budget and is particularly important to the financial aid program, faculty salaries and academic department budgets. Parents, alumni, alumni parents and friends of the school are contacted by letters and through the annual fund phonathons and asked to make contributions. A high percentage of participation is important to the school in procuring further support from corporations and foundations.
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Annual Fund gift categories include:
Pinnacle Society
Chairman Council
Headmaster’s Circle
$25,000 and above
$ 10,000 to $24,999
$ 5,000 to $9,999
Stronghold Club
Founder’s Club
Scholar’s Club
Blue & White Club
Friends of GSB
$ 3,000 to $4,999
$ 1,500 to $2,999
$ 500 to $1,499
$ 250 to $499
up to $249
All gifts are tax-deductible as allowable by law.
Fundraising Guidelines
The following guidelines and policies apply to fundraising on the part of teachers, coaches and student groups.
The director of external affairs must approve all fundraising activities and/or appeals to support school-related projects or other outside non-profit agencies. A Request to Raise Support form, describing the fundraising or collection of goods and services activity and its timing, must be submitted to the director of external affairs. Any letter or flyer that will be used to promote the activity must also be submitted with the form. The director will respond to the request within five (5) days of the form’s submission.
Event-based versus direct fundraising
In fundraising for the needs of student groups, teams, relief efforts, charities, etc., we make a distinction between event-based fundraising activities such as bake sales, car washes, candy sales, etc. and direct solicitation such as fundraising letters, telephone appeals and face-to-face requests.
Event-based fundraising supports school spirit, and encourages student activities that achieve a given goal. It is passive by nature, and allows an individual to participate or not without much pressure.
Direct fundraising, on the other hand, conflicts with general school appeals that serve the entire school community, and can annoy alumni and parents who feel they receive enough direct solicitations from the school. It is also important not to present our school as soliciting parents and alumni every time they come to the campus.
For these reasons, school groups and teams are welcome to undertake event-based fundraising activities – provided they first receive approval from the director of external affairs following the procedures as outlined above.
Direct fund-raising by school groups, teams or individuals (telephone or mail appeals to alumni or parents) is not permitted. No one is allowed to use the student directory for any non-school-related purpose.
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HEALTH SERVICES
Healthcare at Gill St. Bernard’s School represents a dedicated concern for the emotional as well as physical growth and development of your son and daughter. The school nurse, therefore, is available during school hours to parents and students who have any school-related concerns or problems. A consulting psychologist is also available twice a week to help assess and refer anyone dealing with more serious issues. There is also an athletic trainer for after school sportsrelated issues.
State law mandates that immunizations be current and on file in school before a child may attend classes. Therefore, Gill St. Bernard’s health forms must be returned to the nurse’s office by the first day of school, or in the case of those participating in fall sports, before the first day of practice.
Yearly physicals by family physicians are required for Gill St. Bernard’s students. Physical examinations must take place between June 1 and August 30, prior to school starting in
September. Students participating in competitive sports will not be permitted to practice or compete until these requirements have been met. Students may also be sent home from school and not allowed to return until this requirement is fulfilled.
It is necessary to include on the health form any of your child’s allergies and any other special conditions that relate to your son or daughter. Any prescribed medications should also be listed and any medications to be administered during school hours should be accompanied by the appropriate medication forms, obtainable from the school nurse. Containers must be properly labeled by a pharmacy with both your child’s and your doctor’s names included. All medications needed at school must be kept in the nurse’s office and brought in by the parent. All prescription drugs are controlled substances and, as such, their unauthorized use, distribution, or possession will be considered a major violation of school rules. Students are not to hold or carry any medications whatsoever while at school.
In school, hearing and vision screening tests are periodically and selectively administered to students. If, after two testing sessions, your child performs outside the normal range for general screening, you will be referred to your physician for further assessment. It is the parents’ responsibility, through yearly physical examinations by family physicians, to ensure that students’ hearing and vision are appropriately monitored. Periodic school screenings are a secondary measure and should not be considered as a replacement to a physician’s regular screenings.
Upper School students participating in Field Trips must adhere to these specific guidelines for the management of medications or other special health related needs:
Students 18 years of age are permitted to administer their own medications.
For students under 18 years of age, all medications must be given by the nurse or the designated adult on the trip.
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Only rescue medications for severe life-threatening conditions can be self administered by the student ( e.g. inhalers, EpiPens, insulin, etc ). Written permission from both parent and physician is mandatory.
For prescription and over the counter medications that your child must take on the trip, you must send only the amount needed during the trip, in the original labeled pharmacy container, along with written orders from the doctor.
All field trip and medication permission forms can be obtained from the Upper School office. Any additional special health needs will be managed on an individual basis.
Management of Severe Allergies at School
Policy
1.
Allergic reactions are unique to each person, varying from mild, moderate, to severe reactions related to exposure to a wide variety of allergies or triggers.
2.
Allergic reactions occur as a result of eating, touching, inhaling, or coming in contact with allergen.
3.
Main sources of allergies are: food, medications, insect stings/bites, environmental/seasonal, latex.
4.
The risk of accidental exposure to allergens can be reduced in the school setting if the school, parents, and students work together to minimize risks.
5.
All reactions are taken seriously and treated promptly.
Responsibilities
The cornerstone of providing a safe and healthy environment is communication and responsibility between the student, family and school.
Family
6.
Notify the school nurse and teacher at the beginning of each school year of the student’s allergies or anytime when an allergy is identified.
7.
Work with the nurse/teacher to develop an Individualized Health Plan that will accommodate the child’s needs throughout the school. (i.e.: classroom, dining room, playground, aftercare programs, school-sponsored activities, field trips, and school buses).
8.
Provide medical documentation, instructions, and medications as directed by a physician.
9.
Replace medications when used and upon expiration.
10.
Educate the child in self-recognition and management of his/her allergy.
Examples: i.
Safe and unsafe foods. ii.
Strategies for avoiding allergens. iii.
Know symptoms of allergic reactions. iv.
Know how to seek help immediately. v.
Having the rescue medication with him/her if appropriate.
Student
11.
Know his/her own specific allergen triggers.
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12.
Do not trade food with others.
13.
Do not eat anything with unknown ingredients or known to contain the allergen.
14.
Notify an adult immediately if he/she eats or comes in contact with the allergen.
15.
If prescribed to carry an EpiPen, or Inhaler, have it with him/her.
School
16.
Review by nurse of the health records submitted by parents and physicians.
17.
Discuss with parent / guardian the need for an individualized health plan and establish it as appropriate.
18.
Develop a prevention and intervention plan in conjunction with appropriate school personnel resources.
19.
Be proactive in protecting students from offending allergies in the dining room, classrooms, and campus.
20.
For students with severe allergy car plans, educate “designated” staff to recognize signs and symptoms of allergic reaction, to administer EpiPens and take action appropriately in an emergency.
21.
Keep rescue medications easily accessible in secure but visible locations relevant to the campus layout, i.e. lower and upper school separate Nurses’ Offices.
22.
Assure that a properly trained individual accompanies the student on field trips.
Health Guidelines
Good health is basic to the success of all students. Generally, if a student does not feel well, his/her performance is compromised. Below are some guidelines to help you decide if your child should be in school or at home.
1.
Fever – If a child has a temperature of 100.0 degrees or higher, he/she should stay home, rest and force fluids. He/she may return to school when fever-free for 24 hours. If your child has a fever of 101 degrees or higher, call your doctor.
2.
Vomiting or diarrhea – The child should remain at home.
3.
Rash – If you suspect an allergic reaction or illness, do not send your child to school; consult with your doctor.
4.
Conjunctivitis ( pink eye ) – If the child awakes with eyes crusted over with drainage, keep the child home. Consult with your doctor. Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed. The child may return in 24 hours from the first dose or after four (4) doses have been given and eyes are clear.
5.
Colds and Coughs – The first 24-72 hours are the most uncomfortable and contagious.
Please keep your children at home. Children may return when they are able to participate in a full day of school and coughing and nasal drainage is to a minimum.
6.
Medications – Children who need to be on medication may feel and behave differently.
The nurse and teachers should be made aware of this. Medications can be given through the health office with proper authorization.
7.
Head lice – Children who have head lice should stay at home. Please consult with your doctor. The school nurses will decide when children may return to class.
Prevention is the key to a healthy community. Allowing children to stay home when they are not well, washing hands, getting plenty of sleep and eating a good diet will avoid the complications of an illness and keep the illness from spreading to others.
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Students with Communicable Diseases
It is recognized that communicable, infectious diseases, such as SARS or the H
1
N
1
flu virus, pose significant medical and social problems. In response to concerns about any and/or all infectious/contagious diseases, the board has adopted the following policy:
1.
Any student (and /or his/her parents) of Gill St. Bernard’s School must report immediately to the Headmaster and school nurse any potentially communicable disease.
2.
The determination of whether a student diagnosed as having a communicable disease poses a risk of harm to others such that participation in school should be limited, and the extent of the limitation, shall be made on a case-by-case basis by a committee composed of the Headmaster, divisional director, school nurse and any other person deemed necessary by the Headmaster. The committee may consult any outside person(s) or agency(ies) deemed necessary to help make an appropriate decision.
3.
In making such a determination, the committee shall consider: a.
How the disease is transmitted; b.
How long the carrier is infectious; c.
The severity of potential harm to third parties; d.
The probability that the disease will be transmitted and cause harm.
4.
If in the opinion of the committee, the nature of the disease poses an immediate threat or danger to others, the affected student may be temporarily placed on a leave of absence pending a final determination by the Headmaster on the student’s continued enrollment.
Managing the spread of H1N1 Influenza Virus
Swine Flu is occurring regionally now and we are implementing multiple measures to help minimize and control the spread of the virus within the school and community. Flu like symptoms are defined as a fever of 100 degrees F or greater, cough or sore throat.
The most effective method of controlling the spread is to keep the person with flu like symptoms home for a period of 7 days or 24 hours after all symptoms disappear, whichever is longer.
Children who are absent due to illness who return prior to the 7 day policy will require a doctor’s note to return to school.
Protective Measures Include:
1.
Frequent hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer when soap & water are not available.
2.
Using good “cough etiquette” – cover coughs & sneezed or using the inner elbow to protect when tissues are not available – wash hands afterwards.
3.
Stay at home if sick with acute respiratory illnesses.
4.
Provision of appropriate environmental cleaning of surfaces, books, door knobs, computer keyboards, toys, desks, etc. when EAP products used in accordance to manufacturer’s directions.
5.
Any and all management of outbreaks will be at the discretion of the Headmaster and his administration.
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POLICY ON REPORTING ON DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Gill St. Bernard’s tries to maintain confidentiality in matters of student discipline. Our primary interests are in helping students learn from inappropriate behavior and in refocusing their actions towards more positive outcomes. It is the policy of Gill St. Bernard’s not to respond to specific inquiries regarding a student’s disciplinary history.
Exceptions will be made when a student has been dismissed from Gill St. Bernard’s or where, in the judgment of the school, the safety of the student or others could be affected. In addition, Gill
St. Bernard’s recognizes its responsibility to report to any other institution, including the local police, any violations of the criminal code or grave disciplinary offenses. Finally, Gill St.
Bernard’s will report to the appropriate colleges and universities any significant changes in a candidate’s status or qualifications that take place after school recommendations have been written.
HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING POLICY
Gill St. Bernard’s School is committed to a safe and respectful educational environment for all students and employees; one that is free from harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act when the written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act:
 Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or

Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or

Is severe, persistent, or so pervasive that it creates an intimidating or
threatening educational environment; or

Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. “Intentional acts” refer to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the actions(s).
This policy is not intended to prohibit expression of religious, philosophical, or political views, provided that the expression does not substantially disrupt the educational environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying may still be prohibited by other policies or classroom program rules outlined in our information handbook.
Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to local law enforcement are steps that may be used to address the situation. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation, bullying, and cyber-bullying also constitutes a violation of our policy.
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The Headmaster, Division Director and Dean of Students are authorized to direct the development and implementation of procedures addressing the elements of this policy, consistent with the complaint and investigation components of our procedures.
Students will be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and prevention of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, and their rights and responsibilities under this and other school policies at student orientation sessions and on other appropriate occasions.
Parents shall be provided with copies of this policy and process via the information handbook and other materials as necessary.
Any student found to have engaged in harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or expulsion even for a first offense.
PROCESS
Informal Complaint Process: Anyone may use informal procedures to report and resolve complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or cyber-bullying. At the division level, programs may be established for addressing this issue. In the event of a complaint, the allegations will be investigated and handled in a manner consistent with the requirements set forth in our information handbook. Informal reports may be made to any faculty or staff member, although faculty and staff must inform complainants of the process for filing a formal complaint. Faculty and staff shall also direct potential complainants to an appropriate administrative member who can explain the informal and formal process and what a complainant can expect. Faculty and staff shall also inform the appropriate Division Director or Dean of
Students when they receive allegations of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, especially when the allegation is beyond their expertise to resolve, or alleges serious misconduct.
Informal remedies include an opportunity for the complainant(s) to explain to the alleged perpetrator that the conduct is unwelcome, disruptive, or inappropriate either in writing or faceto-face; a statement from a faculty or staff member to the perpetrator that the alleged conduct is not appropriate and could lead to discipline if proven or repeated; or a general public statement from an administrator in a division reviewing the School’s harassment, intimidation, bullying and cyber-bullying policy, including consequences.
Formal Complaint Process: Anyone may initiate a formal complaint of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying even if the informal complaint process is being utilized.
Complainant(s) will not be promised confidentiality at the onset of an investigation. It cannot be predicted what will be discovered or what kind of action may result. Efforts will be made to increase the confidence and trust of the person making the complaint. The School will fully implement the anti-retaliation provisions of this policy to protect the complainant(s) and any witness(es). Student complainants and witnesses may have an advisor or trusted adult with them, if requested, during initial investigatory activities. The Division Director or Dean of Students may determine that the School needs to conduct an investigation based on information in their possession regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint. All formal complaints must be in writing and delivered to the appropriate Division Director and/or Dean of
Students. The parents of any student involved in such a complaint will be advised of the situation by the appropriate Division Director or Dean of Students.
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DRUG & ALCOHOL CODE
Members of the school community should be aware that they may not possess, distribute, use or be under the influence of any illegal drug, including alcohol, during their stay in school or during an activity away from campus.
ANY STUDENT WHO IS CAUGHT IN POSSESSION OF OR UNDER THE
INFLUENCE OF ANY ILLEGAL SUBSTANCE, INCLUDING ALCOHOL, WILL BE
CONSIDERED TO HAVE VIOLATED A MAJOR DISCIPLINARY GUIDELINE AND
MAY BE REPORTED TO THE POLICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DRUG FREE
SCHOOL ZONE REGULATIONS. WHILE EACH CASE IS JUDGED ON THE
EVIDENCE OF ITS PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES, POSSESSION OF AN
ILLEGAL SUBSTANCE ON CAMPUS OR AT A SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENT IS
CONSIDERED GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL.
Students who are experiencing problems related to drugs or alcohol are encouraged to seek help either through the school or their home. If help is asked for by a student prior to any disciplinary incident, the school with work with the student and his/her family to see proper assistance without disciplinary consequences as long as there are no subsequent incidents at school or any school-sponsored events.
THE SCHOOL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REQUIRE A SUBSTANCE ABUSE
SCREENING, DONE BY AN OUTSIDE AGENCY APPROVED BY THE SCHOOL AT
ANY TIME. IF A STUDENT OR HIS/HER PARENTS REFUSE SUCH A SCREENING,
THAT STUDENT WILL FACE DISMISSAL.
Students who distribute drugs on campus or at a school activity will be summarily dismissed from school. GSB believes that those who attempt to promote drug usage among students and to profit from this usage are guilty of both a school and a criminal offense. Consequently, these are considered among the most serious major offenses at Gill St. Bernard’s School and may be reported to the police. All violations of the drug and alcohol code go directly to the Dean’s
Office and then to the Head of School for a response. Such violations are not subject to the school’s appeal process.
TECHNOLOGY – DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP
The school recognizes that academic technologies are dynamic, interactive multimedia and a necessary part of a modern curriculum. The world in which our students live requires that they be comfortable with and skilled in the use of technology. We want this technology to help us improve and supplement our current teaching strategies and to expand and enrich the academic experience of our students.
The computers and other technological resources made available to students, faculty, staff and administration should be viewed as an extension of Gill St. Bernard’s physical environment, and their use entails the same privileges, obligations, and responsibilities that come with using any
25

school facilities. Students who fail to exercise responsibility when using the school’s computer equipment and resources may be assessed damages or replacement costs, or may lose the privilege of computer use on campus. Deliberate and/or intentional vandalism or theft of any computer hardware or software on the campus is considered a major infraction of the school’s rules. Cases of misuse of technology that has a negative impact on others in the school community will be referred to the Honor Board.
The following rules applying specifically to computers and technology should be observed whenever using the school’s resources:
1) Take proper care of all computer equipment.

No food (including candy or gum) or drink is allowed in the vicinity of any school computer or in any computer lab.

If a computer is not working properly, do not try to fix the problem yourself. Leave the computer on and do not exit any programs that are running. Ask your teacher to report the problem to the technology staff and use another machine.

No fooling around or horseplay of any kind in allowed around computers.

Online use in the Conover or Chapin labs, the Multimedia Center in Chapin and the libraries must be supervised by a teacher or other adult.

Upper School students may use the Chapin lab unsupervised only with the permission of an Upper School teacher.
2) Respect the needs of those engaged in academic or school-related work.
 Gill St. Bernard’s computer resources exist to assist students and faculty in attaining their educational goals. Academic work takes precedence over recreational use of the computers and those individuals with academic or school-related work have priority at all times.

When using programs with sound, please use headphones.
3) Computer workstations are a shared resource.

Changing the configuration of any hardware or software is prohibited.

Do not change desktop icons, wallpaper, backgrounds, etc.

Do not alter or modify the system configuration. This includes, but is not limited to, autoexec.bat, config.sys, and win.ioni files.

No one may use school computers to support a private business.

Restore environmental settings such as sound volume or desktop patterns and colors after use.

Do not store your personal work on the hard drive of any school computer, unless authorized by your teacher. Save work to a disk or other portable media.

Creating a computer virus and/or intentionally infecting school computers will be considered vandalism.
4) Adhere to all laws concerning the use and distribution of copyrighted software.

Students are not allowed to upload application software (programs or files) to any hard drive or network file server.

Students are not allowed to download or copy any programs or files installed on a school computer or file server for use at home without written permission from the technology department.
26


Applications on any portable media may not be run on school machines without prior approval from the technology staff.

Students, faculty and staff must abide by all patent, copyright or license restrictions relating to all computer software and documentation on campus. No personal or unauthorized software should be copied to any school computer. This includes, but is not limited to, software that permits access and downloading from MP3 websites.

Illegal copying of software is a serious federal offense that carries severe criminal and civil penalties under federal law.
5) Use appropriate and respectful language at all times.

Communication over the network or using the school’s computers must involve appropriate language and content. The use of profanity, gender or racial slurs, inflammatory language, sexual harassment or sexually suggestive communication, or any form of malicious language is prohibited on the network, in e-mail, on bulletin boards, during conferencing sessions, during any school-sponsored activity, or on sites such as www.myspace.com
, www.facebook.com
, etc.
6) Use e-mail and the Internet wisely.

All students, faculty and staff are welcome to use e-mail to communicate with others.
However, the school does not guarantee privacy when using school resources. The network is used by many and is monitored by the school and outside technologybased companies.

Use the Internet only in the presence of and with permission from a teacher. The adult must be aware of what you are doing and what site you are visiting.

Activities should be school-related. No personal messaging (e-mail, instant messages or visits to chat rooms) is permitted. o Follow all of the instructions the teacher gives and stay within the sites that are part of the assignment or project.

Use of sites such as Myspace.com and Facebook.com when off-campus should be guided by thoughtfulness and respect.

Never give out any of the following personal information about yourself or anyone else on the Internet: o First or last name o Phone numbers o Address o Where you go to school

Give the complete source of information in a bibliography. Use the format required for your grade.

No downloading or uploading of files (music, pictures, etc.) without permission.

No playing of Internet games, unless instructed by a teacher.

The following uses are also strictly prohibited: o Any use of the network, internet, or e-mail for commercial or for-profit purpose; o Any use of the network, internet, or e-mail for product advertisement or political lobbying.

Students, faculty and staff may not post private information about themselves or others. This includes, but is not limited to names, phone numbers and addresses. In
27

addition, reposting of messages sent to you may not be done without the express permission of the person who sent the original message.

Any abuse of e-mail and other types of communication on computers will result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from school – even for a first offense.
7) Stay out of unauthorized areas.

Storage areas on the network file server that contain school records and other official correspondence are off-limits to all students.

Students should NOT attempt to gain access through hacking or any other means.
The unauthorized use of passwords may result in dismissal, even for a first offense.

Office computers are off-limits to all students.
8) Follow all rules during off-site access to the school’s website and/or e-mail service.

All the rules set forth in the above Digital Citizenship Policy apply during off-campus use of the school’s computer resources and must be adhered to.

Students who use home computers for the harassment of other students, of faculty or to threaten a student or faculty member in any way will be in violation of the school’s acceptable use policy. In this event, the school will consider the situation as a major disciplinary violation and the student could face suspension or expulsion as a result.

All communication between students and faculty from home computers should be limited to school assignments and other school-related matters.
9) Personal Webpages and social networking sites can impact students and the school.

Be careful what you post (words, pictures, etc.)
 Understand that once you push the “send” button, the information is on the web forever.

Threats, degrading, or other inappropriate postings may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Cases will be heard by the Honor Board.
10) While the school does not regularly monitor sites, it will take action in the event that a situation is brought to its attention.
11) All the guidelines and rules in the Technology section also refer to cell phones .
VISITORS
Definition
A visitor is defined as any person who is not an employee of Gill St. Bernard’s School. This includes but is not limited to parents or relatives of students, former students and employees, volunteers, spouses of employees, vendors, contractors or any person who does not have an appointment to meet with an administrator or is not being escorted by a GSB employee. This policy does not always apply to individuals attending an event on campus such as a play or sporting event. However there are instances when individuals may be barred from the campus by the Headmaster. We ask that all students and families comply with these policies.
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Policy
We are proud of our program at GSB and welcome opportunities to share it with appropriate visitors. All such visits must be arranged through the admission office. Primarily these visits are limited to admission applicants. Parents are not allowed to visit classes and students should never bring friends/relatives to school who have not been given permission to visit by both the
Admission Office and the Divisional Director, or who are not applicants for admission. Any non-GSB student who arrives without permission will be sent to the office, and then sent home.

All visitors must sign in at the main office of either the Upper School, Middle School or Lower School or at the security desk at the Lower School

All contractors or vendors must sign in at the Business Office or at the respective office of the department they are here to meet.

All visitors or contractors will be required to wear ID badges to identify themselves as visitors. The ID badges must be returned to the office where the visitor was originally registered.

Any visitor found on the campus or in the buildings who is not wearing an ID badge must be escorted by a GSB employee to the nearest office to be registered.

Our campus is private property and the school reserves the right to ban individuals from the campus.
The following are the main office locations and the designated employees who will issue the visitor badges:
Office
Upper School office
Middle School office
Security desk
Development office
Business office
Headmaster’s office
Location
Hillard
Conover
Somerset
The Cottage
Henshaw House
Nardelli
Designated Employee
Doreen Bracht
Barbara Bator
Jeff Swinson
Julie Ruby
Beverly Devirgilio
AnnMarie Blackman
There will be signs on the campus directing all visitors and vendors to report in at the main offices. A designated employee will meet the visitors, have them sign in at the visitor register and issue them an ID badge. The designated employee will instruct all visitors to return the ID badge to the office and sign out when they have completed their visit to the school.
Any employee who encounters a visitor on the campus should make it a point to look for the visitor ID badge. He/she should always ask the visitor if he/she needs assistance in locating a destination. Persons wishing to do harm are less likely to do it if they are noticed by a lot of people.
Any employee encountering a visitor on the campus who does not have and ID badge visible should ask if the visitor has registered at one of the offices. If the visitor has not registered or does not have and ID badge, the GSB employee should escort the person to one of the main
29

offices so he/she can sign in and obtain the proper identification. If the visitor has an ID badge that is not visible, the GSB employee should remind them of the policy to wear the badge and then offer to give them directions to their destination.
If a GSB employee encounters a visitor without wearing an ID badge and unwilling to be escorted to a main office, the employee should monitor where the visitor is going and inform an administrator immediately.
All visitors should be reminded that this policy is for the safety of the GSB students and employees as well as their own safety. Visitors are expected to follow school rules, such as the prohibition of smoking on the campus. Any questions regarding this policy should be directed to the Headmaster. Gill St. Bernard’s School reserves the right to change this policy without notice at any time.
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Grades Nine through Twelve
Table of Contents
The Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement ……………………………….…………………….32
General Statement of Upper School Philosophy …………………………..…………………32
Communication …………………………………………………………...……………………33
Advisor/Advisee System
Parent/School Communication
Attendance and Tardiness…………………………………………………………..…………34
Attendance
Tardiness
Policy
Student Life and Activities……………………………………..………………………………36
Daily Procedures
Driving
Study Hall
Assemblies
Extra Curricular Activities
Class Trips
Dance Policy
Service Activities
Student Government
Items not Allowed
Upper School Schedule ………………………………………………………………………..41
Honor System…………………………………………….……………………………………..42
Non-academic Violations
Academic Violations
Honor Board
Academic Grades, Reports and Awards…………………...………………………………….50
Homework
Grades and Comments
Graduation Requirements
Honor Roll
Honors Courses
Unit and Off-Campus Travel
Summer School and Courses Taken Outside GSB
Prizes and Awards
College Guidance
Library
Upper School Dress Code………………………………………………………………………59
Dress Code
Special Events Attire
Disciplinary Actions for Dress Code Infractions
Physical Education/Athletics Policy…………………….……………………………………..61
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Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement
(Adopted April 16, 2004)
“As members of the Gill St. Bernard’s School community, we believe that faith, honor and consideration are the foundation of an open and trusting environment. In affirming this belief, we endeavor to uphold the following ideals:
Respect for all individual community members and their beliefs;
Integrity, truthfulness and sportsmanship in our academic and extracurricular pursuits;
Responsibility for our actions;
Service to the school and our communities.
In affirming these ideals, we strive to uphold and strengthen bonds of trust and friendship among all individuals who are now, and in the future, members of the community.
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The goal of Gill St. Bernard’s Upper School is to prepare students for academic success in college and to create a strong desire for lifelong learning. Our students have ample opportunity to participate in the rich and varied college preparatory curriculum, with Advanced Placement sections in eleven subjects and numerous Honors level courses in each department. Students are encouraged to select courses that are rigorous and which enable them to pursue specific areas of interest in addition to building an academic record of achievement in the traditional college preparatory curriculum. Outside the classroom, students are encouraged to participate fully in the life of the school through athletic teams, the performing arts, social activities, clubs and community service.
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COMMUNICATION
Advisor/Advisee System
The heart of the Gill St. Bernard’s approach to helping students grow and develop into responsible, caring adults is in our emphasis on the advisor/advisee relationship. This is our way of giving each student the personal attention he or she deserves as a member of our community.
The advisor is at the center of our communication system. We encourage parents to make use of the system by contacting the advisor with any questions about the student’s school life. If the advisor cannot answer by way of direct knowledge, he/she can certainly direct the question to the proper person. The advisor receives all comments with regard to academics for his/her advisees, and keeps track of the academic progress of his advisees.
It is our goal that the advisor be familiar with his/her advisee’s life at school and in the community. The role sometimes becomes that of confidant and the confidentiality shared with the advisor may be maintained up to the point that it becomes obvious that there is potential for harm to either the advisee or another member of the student body or school community. The advisor may choose to bring in help from another member of the faculty or administration, or to make use of the school nurse or psychologist.
To be most effective, the advisor system tries to place a greater burden of responsibility and initiative on the advisor than on the student. Just as parents take the initiative in rearing their children, the advisor tries to anticipate the needs and problems of his advisees. Parents strive to identify and help their children avoid potential trouble spots. Advisors try to act in the same manner.
Some of the specific responsibilities of an advisor include:
1. Making frequent contact with advisees in informal and formal contexts - classes, during breaks and meals, while observing sports events - to build a personal knowledge of each advisee and establish a friendly, yet professional relationship.
2. Reinforcing and supporting positive acts and accomplishments of advisees of which the advisor has become aware through personal observation or feedback from others.
3. Serving as a good listener and an aid to problem solving for the advisee in academic, personal and social areas of his/her school life.
4. Maintaining close contact with advisee’s parents as the school’s most personal link between them and their son or daughter.
5. Monitoring and participating in the advisee’s academic progress.
In addition to advisor meetings, there will also be grade level meetings to insure full participation at every class level.
Parent/School Communication
The strongest element of Gill St. Bernard’s School is found in the quality and commitment of the faculty. Administrators and parents share with teachers the responsibility for developing effective home-school relationships. Frequent, planned and unplanned communication between teachers, administrators and parents is important and all parties need to be active in this effort.
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Parents are encouraged to contact teachers and administrators when necessary. A call to the school office requesting a meeting will receive a prompt response. Additionally, conference days are specifically scheduled for parent-teacher meetings during the year. All teachers and administrators have voice mail, which is checked daily.
The time of day for parent-teacher conferences is most important. Please remember that class time is very valuable and should not be interrupted. GSB strives to promote a rigorous academic program and any disruption hinders this effort. In general teachers prefer to be contacted while at school, before or after class sessions. However, if you need to contact a teacher at home, please do so at a reasonable hour.
ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS
Attendance
In order to derive full benefit from the educational opportunities offered by Gill St. Bernard’s, students must attend school. All students should strive to be present for every class day that is scheduled and families should maximize the school experience by planning vacations in accordance with the school calendar. Our calendar is announced well in advance for such planning. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE EXCUSED FOR ANY ABSENCE FOR VACATION
PURPOSES.
In the case of inclement weather and school is in session, and a parent deems it unsafe to transport his/her student to school, the student will have an excused absence for that day.
Real illness is a legitimate reason to stay home, and we encourage parents to keep youngsters home who are ill or contagious. However, students should not miss school as a matter of convenience and we expect all families to cooperate in this area.
If a student is unable to attend school on a particular day, a parent or guardian should call the respective division office or the attendance hotline (1-800-803-8254) between 8:00 and
9:00 A.M. With the full cooperation of all families, the school will be able to establish an accurate attendance for all students who do not appear for Period I classes. We feel this is an important safety measure which families should support.
If a student needs to miss school for a doctor’s appointment, he/she must bring a note from home into the school office prior to leaving for the appointment. Please indicate the time of departure in that note. Upon return to school, they must bring a doctor’s note with them in order to be able to return to class. Absences that are not cleared by either the divisional director or the Dean of
Students will be considered unexcused. Students with a pattern of unexcused absences face more serious disciplinary action. After three unexcused absences, grades will be lowered for those classes affected.
The attendance policy is in effect during exams and the Unit. Students are not allowed to leave campus and return without expressed permission from either the Upper School director or the
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Dean of Students. This constitutes a “one arrival and one departure” rule from school during these periods..
Tardiness
As in the case of attendance, in order for students to receive the full benefit of Gill St. Bernard’s, they must report to each class on time. Repeated lateness to school or class is regarded as a serious problem and will be addressed by the divisional director. The response is somewhat dependent on the grade level and circumstance. No student will be marked tardy as a result of a bus arriving late to GSB. The student should be sure to check in at the appropriate office.
We also take quite seriously our responsibility for everyone’s whereabouts during the course of each school day. Students are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without the permission of the appropriate administrator. Violations of this school policy will result in serious disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal for a first offense.
Definitions
Excused absence - An absence from school that is accompanied by a note from a doctor, or permission from the division director or dean, is excused. If the absence is unreported from home, a follow-up phone call will be made by the school. Missed work may be made up.
Unexcused absence - An absence from school not accompanied by a doctor’s note, or permission from the division director or dean, is an unexcused absence. Teachers are not allowed to prepare work in advance of an unexcused absence. Students may learn of their assignments from other students, or through e-mail with a faculty member. Students may not be allowed to make up missed quizzes, but they will be given the opportunity to make up major tests within 48 hours of their return.
Class Cut - Any class period missed without the knowledge and permission of a member of the faculty, staff or administration is considered to be a class cut. Missed work may not be made up.
Attendance/Tardiness Policy:
School policy allows for up to three (3) unexcused absences for each semester. If a student misses more than three (3) days, he or she will lose a portion of the grade as determined by the division director.
1. Absences accompanied by a doctor’s note will not be penalized. Other absences (e.g. wedding, death in the family) may be excused at the discretion of the division director or the
Dean of Students.
2. After three (3) latenesses to any class during the semester disciplinary action will result, which will be determined through a conference between the student, the division director, and the Dean of Students.
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3. Class cuts are never excused. A student’s first class cut will result in an Honor
Warning letter home; additional cuts will result in further disciplinary action which may include suspension from school.
4. Students who drive to school are expected to arrive on time for their first obligation or class. Three (3) latenesses during the semester will result in disciplinary action that will be determined through a conference between the student, his/her parents and the division director.
Driving privileges will be revoked if lateness persists following the parent conference. nurse.
5. A student may not sign out sick without first receiving permission from the school
6. Gill St. Bernard’s takes seriously its responsibility for everyone’s whereabouts during the school day. Students are not permitted to be in the school parking lot for any reason during school hours nor are students permitted to leave campus during the school day without permission from an administrator. Students with permission to leave campus must always sign out in the school office . Violation of this rule will result in serious disciplinary action. In addition, any students arriving after 8:15 a.m., for any reason including a free first period, must sign in at the main office.
7. Any student who misses 30 days or more of class during the school year or three (3) days during the Unit will not receive credit for the courses. Exceptions to this rule may be made by the division director in the event of serious illness, accident or unusual circumstance with proper supporting documentation.
8. Students who participate in athletics may have to miss class time in the last period when traveling to an away contest. When this occurs, it is always the responsibility of the student to know what he/she has missed and to make up any missed work, including the next day’s assignment. A student may not attend practice until any missed work is turned in.
For Grade 9-12 students, attendance is a part of the official school transcript which goes to colleges. A poor attendance record will certainly detract from a student’s record in the eyes of college admission officials.
STUDENT LIFE AND ACTIVITIES
Daily Procedures
The school day is from 8:15 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Extracurricular activities and team sports meet from 3:30 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Each student will be issued a copy of the class schedule in September. Below is a daily schedule for the Upper School.
Driving
Driving speed limit on campus is 10 m.p.h. Automobiles are for transportation to and from campus at the beginning and end of school. All students must receive permission from the
36

Upper School director, the academic office or the Dean’s Office in order to go to their cars or leave campus during the school day.
Please note: If a student wishes to be a passenger in a vehicle driven by another Gill St.
Bernard’s student, he/she must complete and return to the office an official driver/passenger permission form. The forms are available in the main office.
All student vehicles must be registered in the school office and bear current Gill St. Bernard’s parking stickers.
Students must park in their assigned spaces at all times.
Students who drive to school are expected to arrive in time for homeroom/advisory period and for assemblies. Three driving latenesses per semester will be cause for disciplinary action on the advisement of the Dean of Students.
Penalties for Driving Off Campus
Juniors:
1 st
offense — Loss of driving privilege for a portion of their junior year;
2 nd
offense —Loss of driving privilege for the remainder of their junior year;
3 rd
offense — Loss of driving privilege for their junior year and loss of off-campus lunch privileges for a portion of their senior year.
If any three juniors are caught off-campus, at the discretion of the dean, their entire class may lose off-campus lunch privileges for a portion of their senior year.
Seniors
1 st
offense — Loss of off-campus privilege for remainder of senior year;
2 nd
offense — Loss of driving privilege for remainder of senior year.
If any three seniors are caught off-campus, the senior class loses its off-campus privilege.
Study Hall
All ninth grade students are to report to a supervised study hall during their free periods. In addition any tenth, eleventh or twelfth grade students deemed academically deficient in any course are also required to report to study hall during their free periods. Adjustments to this will be determined by either the director of the Upper School or the Dean of Students.
Assemblies
Assemblies provide a time for students and faculty in Grades 9-12 to meet and exchange information. They are held on Monday morning from 10:05 - 10:30 a.m. and at other times as required during the school year. Attendance of all students is required. Students who cut assembly or are late will be assigned detentions. Seniors will lose off-campus lunch and/or driving privileges if they are excessively late to assembly. No food or drink of any kind is permitted in the Athletic Center during any assembly.
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One important purpose of this assembly time is to provide an opportunity for members to speak out: to make an announcement, to comment on some aspect of school life, to acknowledge achievements by any member or group of the school community. While a certain openness is traditional, it is expected that comments are appropriate in nature and tone. Approximately once a month, a special assembly is scheduled where a speaker or artist makes a presentation to the group. The school administration and student government welcome ideas for these special assemblies.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are an integral and enriching part of a student’s education. In providing opportunities for group interaction, the school helps students develop skills that may not be addressed in the classroom. All students are encouraged to participate in one or more of the following:
Academic League Varsity Boys Soccer
Fall Play Production
Spring Musical Production
Mock Trial
Student Government
Yearbook
Admission Ambassadors Club
Newspaper
Literary Magazine
French Honor Society
Spanish Honor Society
Model U.N.
Community Service
Chamber Singers
French Club
Women’s Ensemble
Tech Team
Chess Club
Spanish Club
Food Club
Environmental Club
Varsity Girls Soccer
Varsity Boys Cross Country
Varsity Girls Cross Country
Varsity, JV Boys Basketball
Varsity Girls Basketball
Varsity Softball
Varsity, JV Baseball
Varsity Boys Tennis
Varsity Girls Tennis
Varsity Girls Track
Varsity Boys Track
Varsity Golf
Varsity Fencing
Varsity Swimming
Ice Hockey
Indoor Soccer
Ski Club
Outing Club
Interscholastic Sports : All GSB students must understand that they are representatives of the school in all activities. Sportsmanship is important and both athletes and spectators are expected to conduct themselves on and off the field in a manner consistent with our rules and the Code of
Ethics adopted by the New Jersey Independent Schools Athletic Association (NJISAA) which is posted in the gymnasium. No student is guaranteed a place on any team. In addition to NJISAA and the Patriot League, GSB is also a member of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic
Association (NJSIAA).
Class Trips
Class trips are occasionally planned by the classroom teacher either to enrich a topic of study or to expose the student to something of educational value. Parents will be asked to sign a
Indoor Soccer Spring Musical Production Varsity Boys Soccer
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permission slip for such trips at least two school days prior to the excursion. Students without an appropriate permission slip will not be allowed to participate. The cost for some trips, including the orientation at the beginning of the school year, is covered by tuition. Additional fees for the
Unit and other special trips may be required depending on the nature and cost of the trip. School rules are in effect for all trips.
Dance Policy
If a student would like to bring a guest from outside the school he or she must get a guest permission form from the Dean’s Office and turn in that guest form by the Wednesday before the scheduled dance. Only one guest per student will be allowed to attend any GSB dance. Any unregistered guest will be asked to leave. The school reserves the right to deny entry to any non-
GSB student.
Service Activities
Admission Ambassador is an important leadership role for school students. Admission guides are chosen by the admission director and Upper School director at the beginning of the school year and provide campus tours to prospective admission candidates and families.
Community Service is an important activity that is undertaken both by individual students and by the school community as a whole. During the school year, students have numerous opportunities to participate in community service projects such as food and clothing collections for FISH, fund-raising for the needy and volunteer work with local institutions and community organizations.
Outreach to local communities is a related aspect of community service. It presents an opportunity for the school to enhance the relationship between itself and nearby communities as well as to provide students and faculty with a chance to plan and carry out with one another a program of common interest.
Student Government
Student government is an important component of the success of each school year. Working with the Dean’s Office, an active, responsible student government provides the opportunity for leadership for its members and ensures the rest of the student community a forum in which to address issues of concern to them.
1. Membership in the student government includes the following: a) A president from the senior class and a vice-president from the junior class
will be decided by a preferential vote. b) Four members from each grade level, elected by the respective grades.
2. Meetings are held weekly.
Items Not Allowed
Gill St. Bernard’s has an active, challenging program that requires everyone’s attention and energy during each school day. Therefore, students may not bring to school:
- Pets or other animals;
- Excessive amounts of money (more than $50);
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- Skateboards;
- Roller blades;
- Recording devices - without permission of a teacher and the Division Director;
- Items of considerable material or sentimental value without parental consent for particular use;
- Discman/i-Pod and MP3 players - except for the bus ride to and from school,
in the library, and in the student center
- Chewing gum;
Cell Phone Policy
The GSB policy concerning student cell phone use in school reflects a realization that contemporary cell phones are powerful computers that can serve as useful learning tools. At the same time, phones hold significant potential for distraction and can compromise an individual’s right to privacy. Our policy recognizes age and stage differences, and is therefore division specific.
In the Upper School, cell phone use is specifically prohibited in the dining hall, during assemblies, during arts performances, in athletic locker rooms, in bathrooms, and in classrooms during class time, though teachers may allow phone use when appropriate to class instruction. In the library, students may use cell phones to text or access information, but should not be talking on their phones so that the library can be maintained as an area of quiet study. Students may use cell phones in other areas, but need to be aware of their surroundings and phone use and conversations cannot be a source of distraction or annoyance to others.
In all divisions, using phones to photograph or video others without expressed permission is forbidden. Any phone use that compromises the safety or security of others is similarly forbidden. If a student uses his or her cell phone in an inappropriate manner, he or she may be subject to forfeiture of the cell phone, loss of cell phone privileges on campus, or more serious disciplinary actions depending upon the type and frequency of the violation.
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Upper School Daily Schedule 2012-2013
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
8:15
1
9:10 ( 55)
9:15
10:00
10:05
Assembly
10:40
5
(45)
10:45
6
11:30 (45)
11:35
4
12:20 (45)
12:25
3a
1:00
1:10
3b
1:45
( 45)
8:15
2
9:10 ( 55)
9:15
7
10:10 (55)
10:15-10:25 adv
10:30-11:05
3
11:20 (75)
3
12:20 (70)
12:25
5a
1:00
1:10
5b
1:45
( 45)
8:15
3
9:10 ( 55)
9:15
2
10:00
10:05
Meeting
10:40
10:45
( 45)
7
11:30 (45)
11:35
4
12:20 (45)
12:25
2:45
1a
(75)
1:00
1:10
1b
1:45
( 45)
8:15
4
9:10 (55)
9:15
6
10:10 (55)
10:30
10:15-10:25 adv
4
10:30-11:05
Meeting
11:30 (75)
5
12:20 (70)
12:25
7a
1:00
1:10
7b
1:45
( 45)
1:50 1:50 1:50 1:50
7
3:00 (70)
3:00
1
3:00
6
(70)
2
3:00 (70)
(70)
Period 2
Does not meet
Periods 4, 6
Do not meet
Period 5
41
Does not meet Do not meet
All periods have two 45 minute classes, one 55 minute class, and one 70 minute class.
Friday
8:15
5
9:10 (55)
9:15
10:00
1
(45)
Period 7
Does not meet
10:05
Meeting
10:40
10:45
3
11:30 (45)
(75)
2
12:20 (45)
12:25
6a
1:00
1:10
6b
1:45
(45)
1:50
3:00
4
(70)

HONOR SYSTEM
One of the hallmarks of Gill St. Bernard’s is that all of the members of our community feel a responsibility to contribute in positive ways to the friendly, caring atmosphere we value here.
Consideration and respect for all members of our school community are essential expectations.
The honor system at Gill St. Bernard’s was established in 2004 as a way to affirm that integrity, compassion and consideration are essential elements in a caring community. The honor system assumes that all members of the school community believe in and practice these values in their pursuit of learning. We see these as simple obligations for each of us in our daily lives as members of the school community.
No list of rules can be complete, nor can any enforcement procedure be perfect. Therefore the school must depend, in large measure, on the cooperation and common sense of each student. It is the responsibility of the students to follow both the written or announced rules, as well as to be thoughtful and mature in all their behavior. We expect and depend on the positive support of each member of the community. While the rules of Gill St. Bernard’s School primarily refer to on-campus and school sponsored off-campus occasions, GSB students are expected to appropriately represent the school at all times. If a GSB student were to bring public discredit upon the school because of behavior off-campus, that student could face disciplinary action at the school. Obviously, there are differences in the response based on the “age and stage” of the student. We do not expect five (5) year olds to have the same level of understanding as older students.
NON-ACADEMIC VIOLATIONS
A. Major Offenses
GILL ST. BERNARD’S RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DISMISS, AT ANY TIME, A
STUDENT WHOSE CONDUCT, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE HEADMASTER, IS
DETRIMENTAL OR DANGEROUS TO HIMSELF/HERSELF, HIS/HER FELLOW
STUDENTS AND/OR THE REPUTATION AND INTEGRITY OF THE
SCHOOL,WITHOUT A DISCIPLINARY HEARING.
The importance of honesty and straightforwardness if a student is in trouble must be emphasized.
While honesty should not be equated with leniency, it will assist the process of the school in determining the appropriate disciplinary actions. Some examples of major offenses include (but are not limited to):
1) Rude, disrespectful, inconsiderate or deceitful behavior
Gill St. Bernard’s cannot function smoothly unless all of its members respect each other. Rudeness, disrespectful behavior and excessive public displays of affection, including kissing and inappropriate physical contact, are not acceptable.
Honesty is a core value of our school community and lying will not be tolerated.
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2) Stealing and vandalism
No one should take or use anything - either school property or personal property - which is not his/her own without specific permission from the owner. Likewise, deliberately damaging, defacing or otherwise abusing property is not tolerated.
3) Hazing and Fighting
Fighting, intimidation of, or otherwise causing harm to any member of the school community (student, faculty or staff) will not be tolerated. All members of the
GSB community are entitled to feel safe. It is never appropriate to physically or verbally harass another student. Bullying, intimidation or threats to any member of the school community will not be tolerated whether they occur during or after school hours. This includes inappropriate use of electronic equipment or websites such as www.facebook.com
and www.myspace.com. Any physical contact with another student without the willing participation of both parties is not permitted.
Students will be subject to suspension if they participate in hazing activity of any kind. This includes cyber or e-bullying.
4) Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment of any member of the school community (student, faculty, staff) will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is defined as any conduct of a sexual nature which is unwelcome and causes harm to the victim — including anything online. Examples of sexually harassing behavior include lewd comments of a sexual nature, including forcing others to listen to discussions of a sexual nature, and the use of any inappropriate websites, the display of sexually offensive materials, any unwelcome touching and/or direct requests for sexual favors. Accusations of any kind are considered extremely serious, but the consequences for false accusations will also be addressed.
5) Threats
Threats of any kind, including but not limited to, verbal and written threats made in person or over computer, voice mail or regular mail, are not permitted at any time. All threats towards anyone or anything will be taken seriously and will usually result in immediate suspension until a final disciplinary decision is reached. The school regularly monitors websites such www.myspace.com and www.facebook.com, among others.
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6) Weapons
Weapons of any kind, including those sold in toy or department stores, are not permitted in school. This includes bringing a weapon to school on the bus and leaving it in one’s locker until after school. (Weapons are defined as any and all instruments of offensive or defensive combat, or anything used, or designed to be used, in destroying, defeating or injuring any person or any property, including but not limited to the following: bats, clubs, corkscrews, guns, knives and lighters.) Possession of any kind of weapon will be cause for an immediate suspension from school with the strong likelihood of dismissal from the school.
7) Dangerous Materials
Lighters, matches or flammable materials of any kind are not permitted on the school grounds.
All school rules will apply at all times on campus, as well as on all school trips, school buses and all school-related activities (dances, sporting events, field trips, etc.) In addition, Gill St.
Bernard’s expects its students to comport themselves in a mature, responsible, law abiding manner, both before and after school hours, whether on campus or off. This is particularly true at sporting events, whether the student is on the team participating in the contest or watching as a spectator.
B. Minor Offenses
1) Smoking is an offense for which there is a separate policy. If a student is caught smoking on campus, his/her parents will be contacted immediately and the Dean’s
Office will determine an appropriate consequence. A second offense will result in a day’s suspension during which the family must make arrangements for the student to enter a smoke-enders program. (All tobacco products come under the
“smoking” policy.) A third offense is a significant cause for concern given our policy, and the student could be dismissed from school or have his/her enrollment contract not renewed.
2) The first response to a disciplinary problem in class usually will come from the classroom teacher and involves a discussion of the incident with the child after class or after school if the teacher feels the matter is serious. The student’s advisor, if applicable, will usually be contacted at this point in order for him/her to follow up. If a problem persists, the student, teacher and a member of the
Dean’s Office will then sit down together to discuss the student’s behavior and reasons for the persistence of the problem. If there is still no progress, the student’s parents will be brought into the process. They will also be informed that in the event of continued difficulties, the student will likely face further consequences.
3) The Dean’s Office will oversee out-of-class detentions after school. Other detention
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times, including early morning hours before school and Saturday work detentions, can be assigned to students with excessive minor infractions. These detentions will be assigned only with parent notification. After-school detentions do not require parental notification by the school though the student may need to phone home to rearrange transportation home.
POLICY ON REPORTING ON DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Gill St. Bernard’s tries to maintain confidentiality in matters of student discipline. Our primary interests are in helping students learn from inappropriate behavior and in refocusing their actions towards more positive outcomes. It is the policy of Gill St. Bernard’s not to respond to specific inquiries regarding a student’s disciplinary history.
Exceptions will be made when a student has been dismissed from Gill St. Bernard’s or where, in the judgment of the school, the safety of the student or others could be affected. In addition, Gill
St. Bernard’s recognizes its responsibility to report to any other institution, including the local police, any violations of the criminal code or grave disciplinary offenses. Finally, Gill St.
Bernard’s will report to the appropriate colleges and universities any significant changes in a candidate’s status or qualifications that take place after school recommendations have been written.
HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING POLICY
Gill St. Bernard’s School is committed to a safe and respectful educational environment for all students and employees; one that is free from harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act when the written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act:
 Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or
 Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or

Is severe, persistent, or so pervasive that it creates an intimidating or
threatening educational environment; or

Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. “Intentional acts” refer to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the actions(s).
This policy is not intended to prohibit expression of religious, philosophical, or political views, provided that the expression does not substantially disrupt the educational environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying may still be prohibited by other policies or classroom program rules outlined in our information handbook.
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Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to local law enforcement are steps that may be used to address the situation. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation, bullying, and cyber-bullying also constitutes a violation of our policy.
The Headmaster, Division Director and Dean of Students are authorized to direct the development and implementation of procedures addressing the elements of this policy, consistent with the complaint and investigation components of our procedures.
Students will be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and prevention of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, and their rights and responsibilities under this and other school policies at student orientation sessions and on other appropriate occasions.
Parents shall be provided with copies of this policy and process via the information handbook and other materials as necessary.
Any student found to have engaged in harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or expulsion even for a first offense.
PROCESS
Informal Complaint Process: Anyone may use informal procedures to report and resolve complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or cyber-bullying. At the division level, programs may be established for addressing this issue. In the event of a complaint, the allegations will be investigated and handled in a manner consistent with the requirements set forth in our information handbook. Informal reports may be made to any faculty or staff member, although faculty and staff must inform complainants of the process for filing a formal complaint. Faculty and staff shall also direct potential complainants to an appropriate administrative member who can explain the informal and formal process and what a complainant can expect. Faculty and staff shall also inform the appropriate Division Director or Dean of
Students when they receive allegations of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, especially when the allegation is beyond their expertise to resolve, or alleges serious misconduct.
Informal remedies include an opportunity for the complainant(s) to explain to the alleged perpetrator that the conduct is unwelcome, disruptive, or inappropriate either in writing or faceto-face; a statement from a faculty or staff member to the perpetrator that the alleged conduct is not appropriate and could lead to discipline if proven or repeated; or a general public statement from an administrator in a division reviewing the School’s harassment, intimidation, bullying and cyber-bullying policy, including consequences.
Formal Complaint Process: Anyone may initiate a formal complaint of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying even if the informal complaint process is being utilized.
Complainant(s) will not be promised confidentiality at the onset of an investigation. It cannot be predicted what will be discovered or what kind of action may result. Efforts will be made to increase the confidence and trust of the person making the complaint. The School will fully implement the anti-retaliation provisions of this policy to protect the complainant(s) and any witness(es). Student complainants and witnesses may have an advisor or trusted adult with them,
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if requested, during initial investigatory activities. The Division Director or Dean of Students may determine that the School needs to conduct an investigation based on information in their possession regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint. All formal complaints must be in writing and delivered to the appropriate Division Director and/or Dean of
Students. The parents of any student involved in such a complaint will be advised of the situation by the appropriate Division Director or Dean of Students.
NON-ACADEMIC VIOLATIONS
CONSEQUENCES
Disciplinary actions and procedures for major honor code offenses or violations will be determined by the Dean’s Office. These measures may range from a meeting of the Honor Board to any of the following disciplinary actions.
Disciplinary Actions
Honor Warning - This constitutes a formal reprimand for a violation. A letter will be sent to the parents reviewing the incident and emphasizing its seriousness. A further violation of the school rules may result in probation, suspension or dismissal.
Honor Probation -This constitutes formal written notice that the student has either violated a specific school rule, or has in some manner shown willful disregard of the community.
Probation indicates that a student's conduct is being closely observed, and any further major violations would result in suspension or dismissal. Students on probation will have their reenrollment contracts withheld until the term of probation expires without any additional incident.
Suspension -Because of a major violation of school rules or repeated incidents requiring on-campus discipline, it may be beneficial for a student and the school community for that student to be separated from the school, preferably under the guidance of his/her parents, to reflect on the attitudes and/or actions which led to the suspension. The school also has an in school suspension option at the discretion of the Dean’s Office. Suspension is not a way to reject the student; rather it is an opportunity for the student to change in positive ways. Students who are suspended return to school on probation for a prescribed period of time. During the time of probation, a student can actively demonstrate his/her desire to be a constructive member of the
GSB community and insure his/her continued presence here.
Dismissal At times, the action(s) of a student convince(s) the school that he/she either does not want to be a member of our community or that he/she must be permanently separated from it. Moreover, sometimes it is not constructive for the school or for the individual to be retained within the community. Such a decision might come after a single act, a series of acts or as a result of a year-end review of the student's behavior. While dismissal constitutes the most significant response the school can take, it is our only course of action when serious
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violations occur. Summary dismissal is the dismissal of a student without a meeting of the Honor
Board.
Gill St. Bernard’s reserves the right to dismiss, at any time, a child who, at the discretion of the
Headmaster, is detrimental or dangerous to other children, and/or the reputation and integrity of the school. Parental support of the school is an expectation. In cases where parents are inappropriate in their comments or actions, the child may face dismissal.
ACADEMIC VIOLATIONS
Civil society is built upon a foundation of knowledge. Human knowledge is manifest in words, ideas, and organization which are expressed in multiple forms and formats. Words, ideas, and organizational structures begin in the human mind and are thus considered to be intellectual property . Intellectual property, like other forms of property, is owned by the individual or group that produces it. Theft of intellectual property is considered to be plagiarism or cheating, a very serious academic offense. The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (6 th
ed.) warns:
Plagiarism and cheating involves two kinds of wrongs. Using another person’s ideas, information, or expressions without acknowledging that person’s work constitutes intellectual theft. Passing off another person’s ideas, information, or expressions as your own to get a better grade or gain some other advantage constitutes fraud. (Gibaldi 66)
When a person borrows those words, ideas, or expressions of another individual or group, the borrower is obligated to document the source or sources of the information he or she has borrowed. Failing to cite a borrowed source, either deliberately or accidentally is considered plagiarism; in general, a writer should cite borrowed sources whenever a paper includes little-known facts or information, or someone else’s ideas or opinions.
The authorization and documentation of borrowed words, ideas, and expressions is governed by style manuals, such as the MLA Handbook which is cited above. These style manuals are produced by a variety of academic associations and organizations in various academic disciplines. Four style manuals used by Gill St. Bernard's School are:
The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers
The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association ( for science research)
The ALA Standards Manual
The Chicago Manual of Style
It should also be emphasized that all parties in a plagiarism or cheating offense are considered equally guilty. If you knowingly share your course work, including but not limited to essays, homework, research papers, quizzes, and tests, with another student who seeks credit for your work, you are considered as guilty as the student who plagiarized your work. Unless a teacher
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gives you permission to share your course work or make it available to another student, you should avoid doing so at all times!
CONSEQUENCES OF ACADEMIC VIOLATIONS
Any offense involving plagiarism and other forms of cheating will be referred to the Office of the Dean of Students. A representative of the Dean’s Office and the classroom teacher from whom academic credit was wrongfully sought will consult to determine next steps in the disciplinary procedures to address any offense. Penalties for academic offenses can vary based on past disciplinary history of the student, determinations about intent and scope of the offense and the nature of the particular assignment. These penalties may range from a meeting of the
Honor Board for disciplinary action to a zero on an assignment.
Any student who is caught cheating or is involved in any academic offense will be ineligible for any leadership position including but not limited to Student Government, Peer Leader, and
Honor Board. In addition, they will not be eligible for any graduation or awards assembly recognition at the conclusion of the year in which the academic offense took place. This includes any awards from outside organizations that would normally be presented at these closing ceremonies.
HONOR BOARD
To support the honor system and the values inherent to it, the school has established an Honor
Board in the Upper School. This will serve both to educate the community about the importance of our core values and to hear disciplinary cases which involve allegations about certain disciplinary issues.
Honor Board
The Honor Board will be composed of the following people: the Dean of Student; one (1) additional representative of the Dean of Student’s office; the head of the Upper School; a faculty member selected by the Upper School faculty to sit for the year on the board; two (2) senior students, elected by the student body; and one (1) additional senior elected by the faculty. The honor board will meet each month whether or not it is convened to discuss an allegation regarding violation of the honor system. The Headmaster is not a part of the Honor Board. No student can serve on both the Honor Board and be a part of the Student Government.
Honor Board Procedures
In any case concerning the Honor Board the following procedure will be followed:
Phase 1 - Accusation and Investigation: When an alleged violation is brought to the school's attention, the circumstances will be investigated by the Dean’s Office and the director of the
Upper School. Together, they will meet with the person or persons making the accusation and then with the party or parties accused of the violation. In addition, they will meet with any other
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witnesses or people involved with the allegations. Following these conversations, the Dean’s
Office, in conjunction with the Upper School director, will determine the next phase of the case.
At this time either of the following may occur:
1. There could be too little evidence for the case to be continued;
2. The accusation has enough merit to warrant further investigation and would be referred to the Honor Board. a. In cases where a student admits to the violation, the Dean’s Office and Upper
School director, in concert with the Headmaster, will determine the necessity of an Honor Board hearing. b. In cases that are sent to the Honor Board, a student and his/her parents will be informed of the section or sections of the honor code pertinent to the allegation. A student's advisor or a teacher chosen by the student to be his/her advocate will be present during the proceedings. c. Parents are not entitled to attend Honor Board meetings.
Phase II - When the Honor Board is Convened : An Honor Board hearing will be convened by the Dean of Students who will chair the meeting. The Dean of Students or a representative of the
Dean’s Office will provide a summary of the allegations and investigation to the Honor Board.
At this time the person making the allegation will make a statement to and answer questions from the Honor Board. After the Honor Board hears the charge, the student, in the presence of the faculty advisor or faculty advocate, would make a statement to, and answer questions from the Honor Board. In the event of the accusation for the same offense involving more than one student, each student and advisor or advocate will meet separately with the Honor Board.
If there are witnesses to the incident or supplemental testimony involved in the hearing, the
Honor Board will take statements from and ask questions of the witnesses.
Phase III - Honor Board Discussion and Recommendation: After hearing from and asking questions of all the parties involved in the case, the Honor Board will meet and make a recommendation of action to the Headmaster.
Honor Board Appeals:
Any appeal of any Honor Board decision must be made in writing to the Headmaster within five
(5) calendar days of the disputed decision. In all cases, his decision is final and is not subject to additional appeals (s). The appeal should include all reasons for reconsideration of the case.
Families who refuse to cooperate with the Honor System, its process and procedures, will be required to withdraw their son/daughter from the school.
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ACADEMIC GRADES, REPORTS AND AWARDS
Homework
Homework will be assigned on a regular basis by the classroom teacher. Homework assignments will vary in length with a typical assignment designed to provide enrichment to the student’s daily class work. Up to forty-five (45) minutes per academic subject is a reasonable expectation for student homework assignments.
We ask that parents not help their child with daily homework or long-term assignments. We prefer assignments with errors that the student makes to errorless papers completed by a parent.
In this way a teacher can identify a student’s weakness and more effectively work with the student to correct it.
We also ask that parents provide their child/children with a suitable environment for completing homework. Televisions, radios, stereos and telephones do not assist students with homework.
Parents can also play a significant role in assisting students with problems of a conceptual nature or in reviewing material for a quiz or exam.
Parents should always encourage a child to assume responsibility for seeking extra help. The
Gill St. Bernard’s faculty is available for academic assistance during free periods and by appointment after school.
Please remember that:
- All papers of 500 words in length or longer must be word processed.
- All students in math courses from Algebra I through Calculus must have a TI-83 graphing calculator.
Grades and Comments
Grades with comments are sent to students and their parents four times during the year. Grades and comments will be sent home in late November, in the middle of the first semester, late
January, at the end of the first semester, early April, in the middle of the second semester and in
June, at the end of the second semester.
In addition, advisors are responsible for communication between the school and the family regarding academic and social progress during the academic year. If you have any questions regarding your child’s academic standing, please contact your child’s advisor.
Letter grades are based upon the following equivalent numerical scale:
Letter Grades
A+
A
A-
B+
Equivalent Numerical Range
98-100
93-97
90-92
87-89
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B
B-
C+
C
C-
D+
D
D-
F
83-86
80-82
77-79
73-76
70-72
67-69
63-66
60-62
0-59
“I” means “Incomplete” (temporary grade only); “W” means “Withdrawn;” “P” means “Pass”
The “A+”grade indicates absolutely superior work.
The “A” grade indicates excellence.
The “B” grade indicates commendable performance.
The “C” grade indicates satisfactory work.
The “D” grade indicates below standard work. It is acceptable as credit only in non-sequential courses. For example, a student with a grade below C- in any foreign language course will not be passed to the next level of that course.
The “F” grade indicates unacceptable work and carries no credit.
The “I” (Incomplete) grade is given because of absences resulting from illness or other unavoidable problem and indicates an obligation to complete course work within a brief, specified time period. The “P” grade is normally given only in non-academic courses such as
Physical Education, work-study, and some independent studies.
The “W/P” or “W/F” indicates withdrawal from a course with a passing or failing grade at the time of withdrawal.
Any student who begins to show a pattern of grades below “C” will be subject to academic review. The student and his family will be asked to meet with the appropriate faculty and the
Upper School director at the earliest possible date for this reason. Continuation of such a pattern will raise serious doubts about the student’s re-enrolling for another year at Gill St. Bernard’s.
Academic Probation
Any student with either/and any F or two or more D’s is automatically on academic probation.
Students on academic probation will not be issued a new enrollment contract.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a diploma from Gill St. Bernard’s each student must meet the following requirements: a) Pass all distribution requirements as specified below. b) Pass a minimum total of 23 academic credits. c) All ninth through twelfth grade students must participate in one sport, drama or other extracurricular activity during each of these years. One season’s sport is considered one activity, as is one drama production, or one year-long activity such as the host/hostess program, yearbook, newspaper, etc. d) The ninth grade seminar is required of all 9 th
grade students.
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e) Students are expected to complete one Unit for each year they are in the Upper School.
If a student fails to meet this requirement, they must petition the Upper School Director for a waiver.
The following stipulations may also apply in some cases: a) Students entering Gill St. Bernard’s in 11th or 12th grade must pass a minimum of five (5) credits per year in order to receive a Gill St. Bernard’s diploma. b) While some eighth grade courses (French I, Algebra I, etc.) may satisfy department distribution requirements, they do not count toward the total number of high school units required for graduation. c) Students who do not meet the minimum credit requirements for graduation may, in certain circumstances, be allowed to participate in the ceremony.
Distribution Requirements of Departments
The following requirements are minimum standards for graduation and should not represent anything other than our minimum expectations for our students.
Total Units
Department
English
Fine Arts
Required
4
1
Description
One credit per year
Foreign Language 3
Mathematics
Science
History
3
3
3
Sequential courses in one foreign language
Sequential courses including completion of Algebra II/Trig
Including World Cultures and U.S. History
Any departmental offerings beyond requirements Additional Electives 6
Honor Roll
The honor roll is published after each grading period. The qualifications are as follows:
Headmaster’s List: A- or better in every course
Honors List: B- or better in every course
A student who does not complete course work because of illness or other excused absence may receive a grade of “WP” (Withdrawn Passing) or an “I” (Incomplete). An “I” is a temporary grade and will be replaced by a letter grade (A-F) at the end of a prescribed period for completion of the work. A student who withdraws from a course with a grade of D or lower will receive a “WF” grade. No credit will be given for this course.
Honors Courses
Honors courses are labeled as such on the transcript because they include more complex and advanced work than regular courses at the same grade level. Marks in honors courses carry more weight in computing class rank than regular courses. This does not apply to someone who has failed an honors course. (“B-” in an honors course is sufficient for honor roll status.)
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Entrance Requirements for Honors and AP Courses
English Department
For all Honors courses, a student must have a final year-end average of a B+ or better in the previous English course and a written recommendation of the most recent English teacher.
For AP Literature and Composition, a student must have a final year-end average of an
A- or better in British Literature, a written teacher recommendation from the junior English teacher, and a minimum SAT Verbal score of 600 or ACT score of 28.
Foreign Language
To progress to the next level of French, Spanish or Latin, a student must have the recommendation of the most recent language teacher.
Math
For Pre-Calculus, a student must have a B average in Algebra II and/or the recommendation of the teacher.
For Honors Calculus, a student must have a B in Pre-Calculus and/or the recommendation of the teacher.
For AP Calculus, a student must have a B+ in Pre-Calculus and a minimum of 650 in the
Math SAT, or an A- in Pre-Calculus and a minimum of 600 in the Math SAT.
Science
For a student to take Honors Physics in ninth grade, he/she must have a B average in all
Eighth Grade courses, and must have completed Geometry in Eighth Grade. Exceptions will only be made if a student makes a prior arrangement with the Upper School director.
For AP Biology or AP Chemistry, a student must have an A- in Biology, a B+ in
Chemistry and a minimum Verbal SAT score of 550.
For AP Environmental Science, a student must have the recommendation of the science department.
History
For AP U.S. History and AP U.S. Government, a student must have an A- in U.S. Survey or Comparative World Cultures and a minimum PSAT Verbal or SAT Verbal score of 600.
Any appeal of these requirements should be made in writing to the appropriate department head and the director of the Upper School.
AP Testing Policy:
We consider AP exams to be a part of the AP course. All students who complete AP courses are expected to take AP exams, but a student who opts not to take an AP exam will not have an AP designation for the completed course on the transcript. In addition, this change will be communicated to any college where that student has applied.
All decisions about sitting for AP exams will be made by late September by students in consultation with AP teachers. At that time, students taking AP exams will complete a charge slip for each exam to confirm their status as an AP student in that class. Students who opt not to take the AP test will have “honors” status assigned to that class.
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Students who do not take the national AP exam in May will be required to take the final exam for that course unless exempted by their grade average for the course.
National AP exams will take precedence over all athletic events and tournaments, as well as all other personal commitments. In keeping with published AP policies, alternative testing arrangements will not be made unless permitted by these published policies.
Effective with courses during the academic school year, the GPA will be weighted as follows:
AP Courses +.67
Honors Courses +.33
Students enrolled in AP courses who opt not to take the exam will only receive Honors course credit and GPA weighting.
Mid-Term and Final Exams: Many year-long courses in every department have mid-term and final examinations. Taken together, these two exams can count for up to 30% of a student’s final grade. In all cases, this is at the discretion of the classroom teacher and respective department head.
Unit and Off-Campus Travel
A student must achieve a C or better in the current year’s Unit course to be considered for travel in the following year. In addition, a student’s behavioral and academic performance throughout the year influences whether he or she will be able to participate in any overnight travel opportunities. Selection for off-campus travel is a privilege and students are required to submit personal statements explaining why they wish to participate in a course involving extensive travel. Students withdrawing (w) or receiving an incomplete (inc) that is not completed in a timely manner, may not travel overnight in the following year’s Spring Unit.
Each unexcused absence during the Spring Unit will result in a deduction from the final grade.
Please see the section on attendance (page 43) for the definition of excused and unexcused absence.
Students are expected to complete one unit each year he or she is in the Upper School. If a student fails to meet this requirement they must petition the Upper School Director for a waiver.
Students who transfer from one Spring Unit course to another after January 30 will forfeit 50 percent of their deposit; after February 28, all of their deposit will be forfeited.
Students under the age of 18 traveling overnight in the Spring Unit may not carry, on their person, prescription drugs.
Drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and other illicit substances are prohibited on Spring Unit trips. Any student found with any of the items will be immediately returned home at the parents’ expense and will face disciplinary actions up to and including dismissal from school.
All luggage will be checked by GSB personnel prior to departing for any overnight trip.
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Students playing in the GSB Spring Athletic Program are expected to register for a Spring Unit that does not travel overnight.
Students may not travel in any unit if their tuition is not paid in full.
All school rules are in effect during the unit.
A separate booklet on Unit programs and course descriptions is distributed to students and parents in October of each year.
Summer School and Courses Taken Outside GSB:
GSB encourages students to take additional course work in summer school and in other approved educational institutions. GSB does not include non-GSB course work on the GSB transcript, and those course grades will not be included in the computation of the student’s Grade Point Average
(GPA). However, upon request non-GSB transcripts will be included in the application packets mailed to colleges or other institutions.
Prizes and Awards
Any student who is caught cheating or is involved in any academic offense will be ineligible for any graduation or awards assembly recognition at the conclusion of the year in which the academic offense took place.
1. For freshmen and sophomores: a) Margaret D. Jefferson Cup - Honors a young woman of strong will and determination, fierce pride and sense of right who is committed to serving others. b) Thomas A. Conover Cup - Honors a young man who exhibits qualities of leadership and determination.
2. For juniors: a) Rensselaer Award in Mathematics and Science; b) Pierrepont Memorial History Scholarship; d) Meredith H. Pyne Achievement Award - Scholarship awarded for “Excellence in
Citizenship and Academic Achievement”; e) C. Elliott Knoke Award - Scholarship awarded to a girl who demonstrates the qualities of citizenship and scholarship in fine measure; f) The John Atthowe Memorial Scholarship awarded to a boy who is a scholar and an athlete; g) The Walter P. Henshaw Memorial Scholarship awarded to a student with demonstrated academic achievement in literature and writing; h) Bausch and Lomb Award in Science; i) Paul Nardoni Science Research Award; j) One or more university book awards may be given to deserving juniors.
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3. For seniors: a) Senior Prize in History; b) Peapack-Gladstone Bank Award in English; c) Frances Rohn Memorial in Mathematics; d) Carol J. Heaney Memorial in Science; e) Harold D. Nicholls Award for Men’s Athletics; f) Joyce Creasey Award for Women’s Athletics; g) Bennett Service Recognition - Awarded to the student who best demonstrates through active community service the school’s concern and consideration for others; h) Lisa Schmidt Music Prize; i.) Lindabury Senior Honor – Awarded to a senior who has made an outstanding effort to positively affect the experience of underclassmen;
i) Julian T. Brown Cup - Highest honor available to a young man at Gill St. Bernard’s;
j) Elizabeth Gill Award - Highest honor available to a young woman at Gill St.
Bernard’s;
k) George Washington School of Engineering & Applied Science Award;
l) Senior Prize in Foreign Languages; m) Ferber Visual Arts Award;
n) Susan H. Stover Award – for loyalty and service to the school; o) Caporusso/DeLuca Award; p) Jean Loizeaux Award for highest academic average over four years
College Guidance
College counseling is a process that begins with the scheduling of ninth grade classes. Over the high school years, students will receive information and guidance on all facets of their transition from high school to college. Some of this counseling is appropriately placed earlier in the high school years (e.g.: scheduling and some testing), but more intensive counseling is saved for the junior and senior years. Students are encouraged to attend pertinent evening programs each year and familiarize themselves with the college guidance portion of GSB’s web site.
In the junior year, each student will be assigned a lead counselor who will work with the students to ensure that students are given a list of appropriate college options and receive assistance completing applications in the senior year. Lead counselors will also craft a confidential letter of recommendation for the student.
In the senior year, students will undertake a number of tasks as they become college applicants.
They will create a resume, write application essays and request confidential teacher letters of recommendation. For each of these challenges, the student’s lead counselor will serve as a key advisor.
Letters of recommendation: High school seniors require letters of recommendation for college.
Gill St. Bernard’s School policy guides the writing and dissemination of these letters. The college counselor will write the official school letter for each senior. In order to insure accuracy, a draft of this letter may be shared with the student. Teachers are frequently asked to write additional letters for students. In order to maintain the integrity of letters, under no
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circumstances will letters be released to students or parents. Gill St. Bernard’s will send all letters of recommendation directly to other institutions.
Statement of Disclosure
Gill St. Bernard’s believes in maintaining confidentiality in matters of student discipline. Our main interests are in helping students learn from inappropriate behavior, and in refocusing their actions toward more positive outcomes. Therefore, it is our policy not to respond to specific inquiries regarding a student’s disciplinary history.
Exceptions may be made when the safety of students could be affected, when the criminal code is violated, when grave disciplinary offenses occur, when the student has been expelled from
GSB, or when the student requests disclosure.
Transcript Procedures
A Gill St. Bernard’s School transcript is created for every Upper School student. This transcript lists Gill St. Bernard’s School course work for each academic year. Also listed for each course is the credit attained and a final grade.
If a student takes a Gill St. Bernard’s School summer school course, it is also listed with grade and credit on the student’s transcript.
If a student transfers into the Upper School, course work and grades from the former school(s) will not appear on the GSB transcript. Rather, copies of former transcript(s) will be included whenever a transcript is requested. A similar procedure is in place for summer school transcripts from other institutions.
In computing the Grade Point Average for each student, only GSB coursework, including summer school, will be used. Grade Point Averages are computed at the conclusion of the junior year.
In assessing credits for graduation requirements, course work must meet the standard for classroom contact time. A full credit (1 credit on our transcript) is earned through successful completion of a full year course or a 120 hour summer school course. A half credit (.5 credit) is earned by successfully completing a half year course or a 60 hour summer school course.
Credits for summer school work and any other course work must be confirmed by an official transcript from the institution.
Library
The library serves as a resource center and gathering place for the academic needs and recreational reading of the student community. Students are encouraged to use the library to supplement classroom studies and enhance their computer skills and literacy. Games may not be played on the library computers at any time.
Among its many resources the library has over 20,000 volumes, dozens of periodicals, daily newspapers, audio visual materials and access to interlibrary loan resources throughout the state.
Computer facilities and a growing library of CD-ROM materials are enhanced by access to the internet.
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The library is open from 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students may take advantage of their free time before and after school to use the facility for homework, recreational reading or computer activities.
ABSOLUTELY NO FOOD OR BEVERAGES ARE ALLOWED IN THE LIBRARY.
UPPER SCHOOL DRESS CODE
At Gill St. Bernard’s School clothing should match the circumstance or activity in which one is involved. We believe that what a person wears influences behavior and indicates a purpose. Our dress code is designed to help encourage our students to start making appropriate dress decisions on a daily basis. All GSB students are expected to dress in a neat, clean manner that reflects a responsible attitude toward the school community as a whole. Making sure that students are dressed appropriately for school is the responsibility of the parent, not the school. However, if a student arrives at school inappropriately dressed, the school reserves the right to direct the student to change immediately. In cases where this is not possible, the school will provide appropriate clothing or a parent will be required to bring in appropriate clothing.
While we pride ourselves on being one school community, there are obvious differences in the needs and requirements of the different aged students. Therefore, slight differences occur in the regulations governing the dress in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. The dress code is in effect throughout the year, including exam periods.
Daily Dress Code
A list of items not permitted can never be complete as long as fashions continue to change as quickly as they do. The school reserves the right to make changes to the dress code at any time, including during the school year.
1. As stated above, GSB students are expected to dress in a neat, clean manner. “Neat and clean
”
assumes that there will be no holes, rips or tears in school clothing. In addition, clothing should fit well and not be oversized, too tight, or revealing. Pants should fit neatly around the waist and belts should be worn.
2. Hats and sun glasses of any kind should be removed when entering any building on the Gill St. Bernard’s campus and should remain off for the duration of the student’s stay in that building. Hats and dark glasses may be worn again only after exiting the building. The only building exempt from this rule (for hats) is the gymnasium, and only during athletic events.
Students who violate this rule may have the items confiscated for a period of time.
3. Clothing may not have lettering of any kind on it. The only exception to this is Gill
St. Bernard’s or college sweatshirts. Small insignias or logos are permitted.
4. Conventional dress slacks that are neat, tidy, appropriate length, not frayed and have no holes, fit well, and are not oversized are acceptable. Athletic and sweat pants, camouflage, painter pants, blue jeans, pajama pants or denim pants of any kind or color are not acceptable for
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school wear. Shorts, flip-flops and sandals are appropriate in the month of September and after
May 1, depending on the weather. Students are not permitted to wear gym shorts, short shorts or cut-offs.
5. Boys must wear either a polo, turtleneck or collared shirt which must be tucked in at all times. T-shirts or shirts that are cut to be worn outside of slacks are not acceptable dress for school.
6. Girls may wear tailored shirts and blouses. All tops must be either tucked in or, in the case of tailored shirts, cover the top of the pants. In addition, blouses and shirts must cover the shoulder. T-shirts are not acceptable dress for school.
7. The only sweatshirts allowed are GSB or college sweatshirts. A collared shirt or turtleneck must be worn and visible underneath.
8. Bizarre hair colors or styles, on either boys or girls, are inappropriate for school.
Facial hair, such as a beard or mustache, is acceptable for school if it is kept neat, trimmed and well- groomed. Other bodily adornments such as visible, permanent tattoos or body piercing, other than ear piercing, are not allowed.
9. Athletic shoes, if worn, must be in good repair with no holes or tears.
10. No revealing clothes (such as those that show any midriff), tank tops, tube tops, halter tops, muscle shirts or shirts with spaghetti straps are to be worn at school.
11. No blue or other colored denim skirts, jackets, shirts, shorts or clothing of any type will be permitted. In addition, any pants that are “cut” like jeans or look like jeans (such as pants with patch pockets or rivets) are not to be worn at school.
12. Skirts, dresses and shorts must be no more than five (5) inches above the top of the knee, or fingertip length, whichever is longer. Even if leggings are worn, skirts/dresses still have to be the appropriate length.
13. Inappropriate jewelry or accessories, including studded items or heavy chains, are not be permitted.
Special Events Attire
When students in Grades 5-12 are off campus on field trips, away at athletic events, or representing the school on campus at occasions such as concerts and special evening assemblies, students are expected to dress appropriately. The faculty reserves the right to ask the students to wear a skirt and blouse or dress for girls, or a jacket and tie for boys, if they feel it is appropriate for the situation.
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Disciplinary Actions for Dress Code Infractions
First and Second offense - Detention given and an appropriate “school-issued” change of clothes may be issued and must be worn. Record noted.
In the case of repeated offenses, a parent conference will result, a formal letter of reprimand will be sent home and a copy put in the student’s file. Any offense after the fourth may result in possible suspension and probation for the remainder of the year.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION / ATHLETICS POLICY
In the spirit of healthy competition, our student-athletes at all levels are expected to strive to win, as a winning tradition is one measurement of success and can invigorate an entire community.
We recognize, however, that success is not exclusively a function of winning and our studentathletes working toward team goals, conducting themselves with honor, integrity, and sportsmanship at all times is the cornerstone of our athletic philosophy. It is a philosophy and approach that complements the educational process, mission, and overall environment of the school. GSB’s academic excellence is well-established and our athletic program reflects the academic goals of growth, character, and excellence.
In our Upper School we offer 20 different opportunities for interscholastic athletics, a remarkable number considering we have roughly 240 students in grades 9-12. Of those 20 programs, 17 compete as full teams at the varsity level and are therefore eligible for post-season play.
(Swimming and Ice Hockey have been recently re-introduced and are on their way to varsity status. Cheerleading is an athletic opportunity, but does not compete interscholastically.) Most of our programs have junior varsity schedules as well.
While we will make every effort to have a place on a team for every Upper School student who wants one, this does not mean that “playing time” during contests will be divided equally among all athletes. Student-athletes will be expected to follow all school and team rules and any violations will be addressed by the coaching staff and, if necessary, the school administration.
Coaches do have the authority to remove a student from a team if necessary.
Student-athletes are expected to attend all scheduled games and practices. Any request to miss a game or practice must be communicated to the coach in a timely fashion. On school days, students must be on campus by lunch time in order to participate in an athletic practice or game.
Exceptions to that rule can be granted only by the Director of Athletics.
Practices during school days typically run between the hours of 3:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Weekend practices and games/contests will also take place and will be announced in advance by the coaching staff. Each sports season does include practices and/or contests during school vacations. Please plan accordingly. Game, match, and meet schedules are posted on the website at www.gsbschool.org
. Daily schedules can be heard by calling the Athletic Hotline at (908)
734-1109.
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Communication from athletes and/or parents regarding athletic issues involving a specific student or team should be handled directly with the coach. Coaches’ contact information is posted on the web site. If further discussion is necessary, students and/or parents may contact the
Director of Athletics.
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Grades Five through Eight
Table of Contents
The Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement ………………………………….………………….64
General Statement of Middle School Philosophy ……..…..……………….…………………64
Communication ………………………………………….…..…………………………………65
Advisor/Advisee System
Parent/School Communication
Attendance and Tardiness………………………………..………….…………………………66
Student Life and Activities………………………………..……………………………………67
Daily Procedures
Study Hall
Assemblies
Extracurricular Activities
Sportsmanship
Class Trips
Service Activities
Student Council
Academic Grades, Reports and Awards…………………………………………………….69
Homework
Grades and Comments
Academic Warning
Academic Probation
Cheating and Plagiarism
Honor Roll
Prizes and Awards
Other Services and Resources…………………………………………………………………72
Library
Textbooks
Word Processing and Calculators
Physical Education/Athletics Policy………………………...…..……………………………..73
Honor System ……………………………………………..…….……………………………...74
Policy on Reporting Disciplinary Information ……………………………………………….74
Non-academic Violations
Academic Violations
Consequences of Cheating or Plagiarism
Honor Code Violation Consequences………………………...………………………………..78
Consequences for Minor Offenses
Consequences for Major Offenses
Items Not Allowed
Technology – Digital Citizenship ……………………………………………………………...81
Middle School Dress Code …………………………………………..…………………………84
Dress Code
Special Events Attire
Disciplinary Actions for Dress Code Infractions
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Gill St. Bernard’s Honor Statement
(Adopted April 2004)
“As members of the Gill St. Bernard’s School community, we believe that faith, honor and consideration are the foundation of an open and trusting environment. In affirming this belief, we endeavor to uphold the following ideals:
Respect for all individual community members and their beliefs;
Integrity, truthfulness and sportsmanship in our academic and extracurricular pursuits;
Responsibility for our actions;
Service to the school and our communities.
In affirming these ideals, we strive to uphold and strengthen bonds of trust and friendship among all individuals who are now, and in the future, members of the community.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
Middle School is a time in a student’s life when his or her horizons are expanding. The Middle
School curriculum at GSB is designed to build confidence and competence as students prepare for our Upper School. Small class size (average 16) encourages appropriate interaction between teachers and students.
By the time they leave the Middle School, our students are well-grounded in the academic skills necessary to succeed in the Upper School and have developed a positive sense of who they are and what they can accomplish. Outside the classroom, students are encouraged to participate fully in the life of the school through athletic teams, the performing arts, social activities, clubs and community service.
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COMMUNICATION
Advisor/Advisee System
The heart of the Gill St. Bernard’s approach to helping students grow and develop into responsible, caring adults is in our emphasis on the advisor/advisee relationship. This is our way of giving each student the personal, individual attention he or she deserves as a member of our community. At the Middle School level, the homeroom teacher acts as the advisor.
The homeroom teacher is at the center of our communication system. We encourage parents to make use of the system by contacting the homeroom teacher with any questions about the student’s school life. If the homeroom teacher cannot answer by way of direct knowledge, he/she can certainly direct the question to the proper person. The homeroom teacher receives all comments with regard to academics for his/her advisees, and keeps track of the academic progress of his/her advisees.
It is our goal that the homeroom teacher be familiar with his/her advisee’s life at school and in the community. The role sometimes becomes that of confidant and the confidentiality shared with the advisor may be maintained up to the point that it becomes obvious that there is potential for harm to either the student or another member of the student body. The homeroom teacher may choose to bring in help from another member of the faculty or administration, or make use of the school nurse or counselor, if the situation warrants it.
To be most effective, the advisor system tries to place a greater burden of responsibility and initiative on the advisor than on the student. Just as parents take the initiative in rearing their children, the advisor tries to anticipate the needs and problems of his/her advisees. Parents strive to identify and help their children avoid potential trouble spots. Advisors try to act in the same manner.
Parent/School Communication
The strongest element of Gill S. Bernard’s School is found in the quality and commitment of the faculty. Administrators and parents share with teachers the responsibility for developing effective home-school relationships. Frequent, planned and unplanned communication between teachers, administrators and parents is important and all parties need to be active in this effort.
Parents are encouraged to contact teachers and administrators when necessary. A call to the school office requesting a meeting will receive a prompt response. Additionally, conference days are specifically scheduled for parent-teacher meetings during the year. All teachers and administrators have voice mail and e-mail, which are checked regularly.
The time of day for parent-teacher conferences is most important. Please remember that class time is very valuable and should not be interrupted. GSB strives to promote a rigorous academic program and any disruption hinders this effort. In general, teachers prefer to be contacted while at school, before or after class sessions. However, if you need to contact a teacher at home, please do so at a reasonable hour.
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ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS
Attendance
Students must attend school in order to derive full benefit from the educational opportunities offered by Gill St. Bernard’s School. All students should strive to be present for every class day that is scheduled and families should maximize the school experience by planning vacations in accordance with the school calendar. Our calendar is announced well in advance for such planning. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE EXCUSED FOR ANY ABSENCE FOR VACATION
PURPOSES.
In the case of inclement weather and school is in session, and a parent deems it unsafe to transport his/her student to school, the student will have an excused absence for that day.
Real illness is a legitimate reason to stay home, and we encourage parents to keep youngsters home who are ill or contagious. However, students should not miss school as a matter of convenience and we expect all families to cooperate in this area.
If a student needs to miss school for a doctor’s appointment, he/she should bring a note from home into the school office prior to leaving for the appointment. Please indicate the time of departure in that note. Absences that are not cleared by either the divisional director will be considered unexcused. Students with a pattern of unexcused absences face more serious disciplinary action. After three unexcused absences, grades may be lowered for those classes affected.
If a student is unable to attend school on a particular day, a parent or guardian should call the Middle School office or the attendance hotline (1-800-803-8254) between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. With the full cooperation of all families, the school will be able to establish an accurate attendance for all students who do not appear for morning homeroom. We feel this is an important safety measure which families should support.
An Assignment Absent Sheet will be completed and held in the Middle School office for any student who is absent. Teachers may make notes on the sheet and/or attach class handouts.
While assignments are provided for absent students, it is the family’s responsibility to pick up the necessary books and assignment sheets.
Any student who misses 30 days or more of class during the school year will not receive credit for the course. Exceptions to this rule may be made by the Middle School director in the event of serious illness, accident or unusual circumstance with proper supporting documentation.
Tardiness
As in the case of attendance, in order for students to receive the full benefit of Gill St. Bernard’s, they must report to each class on time. Repeated lateness to school or class is regarded as a serious problem and will be addressed by the divisional director. The response is somewhat dependent on the grade level and circumstance. No student will be marked tardy as a result of a bus arriving late to GSB. In all cases of tardiness, the student should be sure to check in at the
Middle School office immediately upon arrival.
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We also take quite seriously our responsibility for everyone’s whereabouts during the course of each school day. Students are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without the permission of the appropriate administrator. Violations of this school policy will result in serious disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal for a first offense.
Definitions
Excused absence – An absence from school that is accompanied by a note from a doctor, or permission from the division director or dean, is excused. If the absence is unreported from home, a follow-up phone call will be made by the school. Missed work may be made up. An unconfirmed absence will be considered unexcused.
Unexcused absence – An absence from school not accompanied by a doctor’s note, or permission from the division director is an unexcused absence. Teachers are not allowed to prepare work in advance of an unexcused absence. Students may learn of their assignments from other students, through e-mail with a faculty member, or the Gill St. Bernard’s website. Students will have to make up missed quizzes immediately upon their return to school, but they will be given the opportunity to make up major tests within 48 hours of their return.
STUDENT LIFE AND ACTIVITIES
Daily Procedures
The school day is from 8:15 am – 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Extracurricular activities and some team sports meet from 3:15 .m – 5:15 pm. Each student will be issued a copy of the class schedule in September.
Students may not be at school after 3:30 pm on a school day unless they are officially signed in as a part of an after school activity or sports event. Signing in is done in each morning homeroom, or may be done in the Middle School office after 8:25 am.
Study Hall
Supervised Study Hall is provided for Middle School students on a daily basis from 3:15 pm –
5:30 pm daily. During this time, students may work on regular homework assignments, utilize the Middle School computer lab for class work and research, make up missed tests, quizzes and assignments, or continue independent reading. Study Hall is not held on the afternoon just prior to a holiday break or during the Unit in May and June. Students must sign up for Study Hall each day during morning homeroom.
Assemblies
Assemblies provide a time for everyone in Grades 5-8 to meet and exchange information.
Attendance of all students is required.
One important purpose of this assembly time is to provide an opportunity to speak out: to make an announcement, to comment on some aspect of school life, to acknowledge achievements by any member or group of the school community. Occasionally, a special assembly is scheduled
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where a speaker or artist makes a presentation to the group. The school administration and student government welcome ideas for these special assemblies.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are an integral and enriching part of a student’s education. In providing opportunities for group interaction, the school helps students develop skills that may not be addressed in the classroom. All students are encouraged to participate in one or more of the following:
Student Council
Academic League
Ecology Club
Tree Trail
Homework Help
Math Lab
Forensics
Engineering Club
Half the Sky Club
Current Events Discussion Group
Newspaper
Gardening Club
Ski and Snowboarding Club
Boys Soccer
Girls Soccer
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Boys Baseball
Yearbook
Choral and Music program
Barbershop and Gill Gals
Spring Musical
Above and Beyond Choir
Sportsmanship
Girls Softball
Tennis
Cross Country
Track and Field
Good behavior on the fields as an athlete or as a spectator is important. Students at GSB are expected to meet the highest standards of sportsmanship and will face disciplinary action for inappropriate behavior.
Class Trips
Class trips are planned by the classroom teacher either to enrich a topic of study or to expose the student to something of educational value. Parents will be asked to sign a permission slip for such trips at least two school days prior to the excursion. The cost for some trips, including the orientation at the beginning of the school year, is covered by fees that parents are assessed as part of their billing prior to the school year. Additional fees for trips may be required depending on the nature and cost of the trip.
Service Activities
Community service is an important activity that is undertaken both by individual students and by the school community as a whole. During the school year, students have numerous opportunities to participate in community service projects such as food and clothing collections for FISH, fundraising for the needy and volunteer work with local institutions and community organizations. In addition, the school participates in projects each year at the Plainfield Senior
Citizen Center.
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Student Council
Student Council is an important component of the success of each school year. An active, responsible Student Council provides the opportunity for leadership for its members and ensures the rest of the student community a forum in which to address issues of concern to them.
Membership in the Student Council includes the following: a.
A president and a vice-president from the Eighth Grade and Seventh Grade respectively are elected by the Middle School student body in September. b.
One member and one alternate for each homeroom are elected by their classmates.
Meetings are held at least twice a month.
ACADEMICS, GRADES, REPORTS AND AWARDS
Homework
Homework will be assigned on a regular basis by the classroom teacher. Homework assignments will vary in length with a typical assignment designed to provide enrichment to the student’s daily class work. Up to thirty (30) minutes per academic subject could be a reasonable expectation for student homework assignments depending on the grade level. Homework assignments are posted by each teacher and for each class on an electronic bulletin board. This tool is helpful for both daily assignment checks as well as during absences. Teachers will often post upcoming assignments, attachments and enrichment websites as well.
Missed Work
Any missing work will be noted by the classroom teacher. Students will have 24 hours to correct the situation before being required to make up the work after school. All academic deficiency slips will be recorded in the office and a copy will be sent home to parents in a timely fashion.
Parental Role
Parents are asked to provide the child with a suitable environment for working on home assignments. Televisions, radios, stereos and telephones do not assist students with homework.
Parents can also play a significant role in assisting students with problems of a conceptual nature or reviewing material for a quiz or exam.
However, we ask that parents not help their child with daily homework or long-term assignments on a regular basis. We prefer assignments with errors that the student makes to errorless papers completed by a parent. In this way a teacher can identify a student’s weakness and more effectively work with the student to correct it.
Parents should always encourage a child to assume responsibility for seeking help. The Gill St.
Bernard’s faculty is available for academic assistance during free periods and by appointment after school.
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Grades and Comments
Grades are sent to students and their parents four times during the year. Comments will be sent home at the conclusion of each semester. Conferences are scheduled at mid-semester in
November and April.
In addition, homeroom teachers are responsible for communication between the school and the family regarding academic and social progress during the academic year. If you have any questions regarding your child’s academic standing, please contact your child’s advisor.
Letter grades are based upon the following equivalent numerical scale:
Letter Grades
A +
A
Equivalent Numerical Range
98-100
93-97
A -
B +
B
B -
C +
C
C -
90-92
87-89
83-86
80-82
77-70
73-76
70-72
D +
D
D -
F
67-69
63-66
60-62
0-59
“I” means “Incomplete” (temporary grade only); “P” means “Pass”
The “A+” grade indicated absolutely superior work.
The “A” grade indicated excellence.
The “B” grade indicates commendable performance.
The “C” grade indicates satisfactory work.
The “D” grade indicates below standard work. It is acceptable as credit only in non-sequential courses. For example, a student with a grade below C- in any foreign language course will not be passed to the next level of that course.
The “F” grade indicates unacceptable work and carries no credit.
The “I” (Incomplete) grade is given because of absence resulting from illness or other unavoidable problem and indicates an obligation to complete course work within a brief, specified time period.
Any student who begins to show a pattern of grades below “C” will be subject to academic review. The student and his/her family will be asked to meet with the appropriate faculty member and the Middle School director, at the earliest possible date for this reason.
Continuation of such a pattern will raise serious doubts about the student’s re-enrolling for another year at Gill St. Bernard’s.
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Academic Warning
Any student receiving a grade in the D range in a core course will be placed on Academic
Warning for the next marking period.
Academic Probation
Any student with two or more grades in the D range, one or more grades of F or any combination of these unsatisfactory grades will be placed on Academic Probation for the next making period.
A student on Academic Probation may not be invited to return for the next academic year.
Cheating and Plagiarism
The Modern Language Association defines plagiarism as “the act of using another person’s ideas or expressions in your writing without acknowledging the source. In short, to plagiarize is to give the impression that you have written or thought something that you have in fact borrowed from someone else.” This includes any form of electronic plagiarism.
Consequences of cheating or plagiarism:
1. Tests and Quizzes a.
The faculty member whose class is involved will call home as well as report the infraction to the Middle School director, who will make a note for the student’s record. A failing grade will be given for the test or quiz. b.
If a second infraction occurs, the matter will be referred to the Middle School director for further disciplinary action.
2.
Papers, Reports and other Assignments a.
Any plagiarism used in any report or paper will result in a lowering of the grade to the degree reflected in the amount of plagiarized material. The purpose is to differentiate between a phrase or two and a substantial section of the paper or
Honor Roll report. b.
If the plagiarism is thought to be intentional deception, no credit will be given. c.
The teacher, by whom the paper or report was assigned, will call home as well as report the infraction to the director. d.
If a second infraction occurs, the matter will be referred to the Dean of Students for further disciplinary action.
The honor roll is published after each semester. The qualifications are as follows:
Headmaster’s List
A- or better in every course
Honors List B- or better in every course
Prizes and Awards
5.
For Grades 5 – 8: a.
Citizenship Awards
6.
For Grades 7 – 8: a.
Highest Scholastic Honors
7.
For Grade 8:
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a.
Francis Winston Award b.
Frank Mazzocchi Award c.
Martha Gray Award d.
Marjorie Hibbler Award e.
Boys Athletic Award f.
Girls Athletic Award
OTHER SERVICES AND RESOURCES
Library
The purpose of the library is to support and enhance the curriculum. While there are materials provided to supplement classroom studies, there is also a collection of materials which supports the research programs the librarian conducts. The library also contains magazines and computers which support the technology programs and allow access to database material that the library purchases. The librarian will be happy to help find what is needed, either “in-house” or through the New Jersey regional library network.
Materials from both the Upper School Library and Lower School Library are available for student use.
Textbooks
Text and reference books can be purchased online. School supplies, school sweatshirts and pants can be purchased with cash or charged on charge slips at the Bookstore. One copy of the charge slip is sent to the student’s home address four times a year with regular billing. The Bookstore is located in the Athletic Center.
Word Processing and Calculators
In Grades 5 – 8, both handwritten and word processed work will be acceptable. Word processing will be encouraged for formal papers.
The use of calculators will be taught in math classes.
Tutoring
Occasionally students will not be able to get the academic assistance they need through normal extra-help with their classroom teacher. In such cases, parents may contract with another teacher
(teachers at GSB are not allowed to tutor their own students, unless it is sanctioned by the
Division Director) for tutoring. Rates are negotiated by teacher and family.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION / ATHLETICS POLICY
1.
All students are expected to participate in the Physical Education/Athletics Program.
2.
Any student who is under a physician’s care must provide a note from a physician clearing the student for full participation in activities, practices and games.
3.
Any student who needs to be exempt from Physical Education/Athletics due to illness or injury must provide a note prior to class from a physician, parent or nurse.
4.
Students must arrive on time for Physical Education/Athletics. If a student arrives late for class, he or she must provide a note from a teacher.
5.
Students are expected to be prepared for class on a regular basis. Students will dress in any school issued clothing (GSB). Items may be found in the GSB School Store located in the Athletic Center.
6.
Students are expected to behave in an appropriate manner when involved in athletics.
Teamwork and Sportsmanship are essential when involved in athletics.
7.
Students involved in any interscholastic teams are required to wear a school issued uniform. The uniform must be returned the day after their last game.
Failure to comply with any of the above statements may result in disciplinary action.
The daily schedule of the Middle School is set up so that our teams practice during the physical education period set aside during the school day. For 5th and 6th graders, it is 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. For 7th and 8th graders, it is 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Because our teams are so closely connected with the PE program, it is imperative that we make every attempt to create a positive experience for student-athletes of all levels and interests.
While we will make every effort to have a place on a team for every Middle School student who wants one, please know that this does not mean that “playing time” during contests will be divided equally among all athletes.
In addition to our competitive teams, we will also offer a supervised “General Gym” opportunity for those students who would like an athletic experience without having to make the often extensive commitment to interscholastic competition. We will also allow a student, if he or she so desires, to take part in a sport-specific PE class without taking part in the actual games, meets, or matches.
Our Upper School teams are achieving at an increasingly high level of success. It is our hope and expectation that this success will continue. Part of our goal in structuring an appropriate Middle
School program is the idea that we will be effectively preparing our young athletes to move seamlessly into the more rigorous varsity and junior varsity programs in the Upper School.
To stay current with the schedules, call the Athletic Hotline at (908) 734-1109, or contact your child’s coach directly over the course of the season. Of course, please feel free to stop by the athletic offices, call, or e-mail us with any thoughts or ideas about our program.
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HONOR SYSTEM
One of the hallmarks of Gill St. Bernard’s is that all of the members of our community feel a responsibility to contribute in positive ways to the friendly, caring atmosphere we value here.
Consideration and respect for all members of our school community are essential expectations.
The Honor System at Gill St. Bernard’s was established in 2004 to affirm that integrity, compassion and consideration are essential elements in a caring community. The Honor System assumes that all members of the school community believe in and practice these values in their pursuit of learning. We see these as simple obligations for each of us in our daily lives as members of the school community.
POLICY ON REPORTING ON DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Gill St. Bernard’s tries to maintain confidentiality in matters of student discipline. Our primary interests are in helping students learn from inappropriate behavior and in refocusing their actions towards more positive outcomes. It is the policy of Gill St. Bernard’s not to respond to specific inquiries regarding a student’s disciplinary history.
Exceptions will be made when a student has been dismissed from Gill St. Bernard’s or where, in the judgment of the school, the safety of the student or others could be affected. In addition, Gill
St. Bernard’s recognizes its responsibility to report to any other institution, including the local police, any violations of the criminal code or grave disciplinary offenses. Finally, Gill St.
Bernard’s will report to the appropriate colleges and universities any significant changes in a candidate’s status or qualifications that take place after school recommendations have been written.
HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING POLICY
Gill St. Bernard’s School is committed to a safe and respectful educational environment for all students and employees; one that is free from harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act when the written, verbal, physical or cyber-bullying act:
 Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or
 Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or

Is severe, persistent, or so pervasive that it creates an intimidating or
threatening educational environment; or

Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. “Intentional acts” refer to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the actions(s).
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This policy is not intended to prohibit expression of religious, philosophical, or political views, provided that the expression does not substantially disrupt the educational environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying may still be prohibited by other policies or classroom program rules outlined in our information handbook.
Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to local law enforcement are steps that may be used to address the situation. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation, bullying, and cyber-bullying also constitutes a violation of our policy.
The Headmaster, Division Director and Dean of Students are authorized to direct the development and implementation of procedures addressing the elements of this policy, consistent with the complaint and investigation components of our procedures.
Students will be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and prevention of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, and their rights and responsibilities under this and other school policies at student orientation sessions and on other appropriate occasions.
Parents shall be provided with copies of this policy and process via the information handbook and other materials as necessary.
Any student found to have engaged in harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or expulsion even for a first offense.
PROCESS
Informal Complaint Process: Anyone may use informal procedures to report and resolve complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or cyber-bullying. At the division level, programs may be established for addressing this issue. In the event of a complaint, the allegations will be investigated and handled in a manner consistent with the requirements set forth in our information handbook. Informal reports may be made to any faculty or staff member, although faculty and staff must inform complainants of the process for filing a formal complaint. Faculty and staff shall also direct potential complainants to an appropriate administrative member who can explain the informal and formal process and what a complainant can expect. Faculty and staff shall also inform the appropriate Division Director or Dean of
Students when they receive allegations of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyber-bullying, especially when the allegation is beyond their expertise to resolve, or alleges serious misconduct.
Informal remedies include an opportunity for the complainant(s) to explain to the alleged perpetrator that the conduct is unwelcome, disruptive, or inappropriate either in writing or faceto-face; a statement from a faculty or staff member to the perpetrator that the alleged conduct is not appropriate and could lead to discipline if proven or repeated; or a general public statement from an administrator in a division reviewing the School’s harassment, intimidation, bullying and cyber-bullying policy, including consequences.
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Formal Complaint Process: Anyone may initiate a formal complaint of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying even if the informal complaint process is being utilized.
Complainant(s) will not be promised confidentiality at the onset of an investigation. It cannot be predicted what will be discovered or what kind of action may result. Efforts will be made to increase the confidence and trust of the person making the complaint. The School will fully implement the anti-retaliation provisions of this policy to protect the complainant(s) and any witness(es). Student complainants and witnesses may have an advisor or trusted adult with them, if requested, during initial investigatory activities. The Division Director or Dean of Students may determine that the School needs to conduct an investigation based on information in their possession regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint. All formal complaints must be in writing and delivered to the appropriate Division Director and/or Dean of
Students. The parents of any student involved in such a complaint will be advised of the situation by the appropriate Division Director or Dean of Students.
In the Middle School, disciplinary issues involving the following actions or issues may be considered in violation of our honor system:
Non-Academic Violations
1.
Rude, disrespectful, inconsiderate or deceitful behavior a.
Gill St. Bernard’s cannot function smoothly unless all of its members respect each other. Rudeness, disrespectful behavior, excessive public displays of affection, including kissing and inappropriate physical contact, are not acceptable. b.
Teachers and staff are to be addressed with appropriate titles (Mr., Ms., Miss,
Mrs., etc.). Courtesy and consideration for all members of the community are considered every bit as important as passing an exam or winning a game. The words of the old Gill School motto – “Faith, Honor and Consideration” – underscore the feelings that we hold about social responsibility. c.
Honesty is a core value of our school community and lying will not be tolerated.
2.
Stealing and vandalism a.
No one should take or use anything – either school property or personal property
– which is not his/her own without specific permission from the owner. b.
Likewise, deliberately damaging, defacing or otherwise abusing property is not tolerated.
3.
Hazing and fighting a.
Fighting, intimidation of, or otherwise causing harm to any member of the school community (student, faculty or staff), either in person or through use of any form of technology, will not be tolerated. All members of the GSB community are entitled to feel safe. b.
It is never appropriate to physically or verbally harass another student. Bullying, intimidation or threats to any member of the school community will not be tolerated whether they occur during or after school hours. c.
This includes inappropriate use of electronic equipment or websites such as www.facebook.com
, www.myspace.com
, text messages, IM-ing, or e-mails. d.
Any physical contact with another student without the willing participation of both parties is not permitted.
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e.
Students may be subject to suspension if they participate in hazing activity of any kind. This includes cyber- or e-bullying.
4.
Sexual harassment a.
Sexual harassment of any member of the school community (student, faculty or staff) will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is defined as any conduct of a sexual nature which is unwelcome and causes harm to the victim. b.
This includes on-line, text, IM, verbal and physical harassment. c.
Examples of sexually harassing behavior include lewd comments of a sexual nature, lewd gestures of a sexual nature, forcing others to listen to discussions of a sexual nature, and the use of any inappropriate websites, the display of sexually offensive materials, any unwelcome touching and/or direct requests for sexual favors.
5.
Threats a.
Threats of any kind, including but not limited to, verbal and written threats made in person or through the computer, or over voice mail, text, or regular mail, are not permitted at any time. b.
All threats towards anyone or anything will be taken seriously and will usually result in immediate suspension until a final disciplinary decision is reached. c.
The school may regularly monitor websites such as www.myspace.com
and www.facebook.com
, among others.
6.
Weapons a.
Weapons of any kind, including those sold in toy or department stores, are not permitted in school. This includes bringing a weapon to school on the bus and leaving it in one’s locker until after school. b.
Weapons are defined as any and all instruments of offensive or defensive combat, or anything used, or designed to be used, in destroying, defeating or injuring any person or any property, including but not limited to the following: bats, bottles, clubs, corkscrews, guns, knives, and lighters. c.
Possession of any kind of weapon will be cause for an immediate suspension from school with a strong possibility of dismissal from school.
7.
Dangerous Materials a.
Lighters, matches or flammable material of any kind are not permitted on the school grounds.
Academic Violations
Cheating in any form, be it on a test, quiz, essay, report or assignment of any kind, is a major violation of the Honor Code. Plagiarism consists of using another’s work without permission or proper credit. No student should seek credit for work which is not his/her own. Consequently, the giving or receiving of unauthorized help in quizzes, tests, or examinations is considered a serious breach of trust within the school community. This includes any form of electronic
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plagiarism. Similarly, all home assignments must represent the student’s own work unless specific permission for outside help is given by the teacher.
Any student who is caught cheating or is involved in any academic offense will be ineligible for any awards assembly recognition at the conclusion of the year in which the academic offense took place. This includes any awards from outside organizations that would normally be presented at these closing ceremonies.
Consequences of cheating or plagiarism
1.
Tests and Quizzes a.
The faculty member whose class is involved will call home as well as report the infraction to the Middle School director, who will make a note for the student’s record. A failing grade will be given for the test or quiz. b.
If a second infraction occurs, the matter will be referred to the Middle School director for further disciplinary action.
2.
Papers, Reports and other Assignments a.
Any plagiarism used in any report or paper will result in a lowering of the grade to the degree reflected in the amount of plagiarized material. The purpose is to differentiate between a phrase or two and a substantial section of the paper or report. b.
If the plagiarism is thought to be intentional deception, no credit will be given. c.
The teacher, by whom the paper or report was assigned, will call home as well as report the infraction to the director. d.
If a second infraction occurs, the matter will be referred to the Dean of Students for further disciplinary action.
HONOR CODE VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES
The importance of honesty and straightforwardness if a student is in trouble must be emphasized.
While honesty should not be equated with leniency, it will assist the process of the school in determining the appropriate disciplinary actions.
No list of rules can be complete, nor can any enforcement procedure be perfect. Therefore, the school must depend, in large measure, on the cooperation and common sense of each student. It is the responsibility of the students to follow both the written or announced rules, as well as to be thoughtful and mature in all their behavior. We expect and depend on the positive support of each member of the community. While the rules of Gill St. Bernard’s School primarily refer to on-campus and school sponsored off-campus occasions, GSB students are expected to appropriately represent the school at all times. If a GSB student were to bring public discredit upon the school because of behavior off-campus, that student would face disciplinary action at the school. Obviously, there are differences in the response based on the “age and stage” of the student. We do not expect four (4) year olds to have the same level of understanding as older students.
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Consequences for Minor Offenses
The following guidelines set forth the general rules and procedures which govern life at Gill St.
Bernard’s.
1.
The first response to a disciplinary problem may be taken by the teacher who first witnessed the problem and: a.
May range from a talk with the student to a detention. b.
May involve a discussion of the incident with the child after class or after school if the teacher feels the matter is serious. c.
May be reported to the student’s advisor and/or the Dean of Students.
2.
Repeated offense a.
May result in a meeting of the student, teacher, advisor, director, and/or dean to discuss the behavior and reasons for persistence. b.
May result in a meeting with the parents. c.
May result in detention if deemed appropriate to the situation.
3.
The Dean of Students will oversee record keeping of infractions and consequences.
4.
The director or dean may schedule a parent conference with any student who receives multiple detentions in any semester.
5.
Suspension may follow any detentions that occur after the parent conference.
6.
The Dean’s Office will oversee out-of-class detentions served after school. Detentions may also be assigned during a free period in the school day, with a student being assigned to a particular work assignment during that time.
7.
After-school detentions do not require parental notification by the school though the student may need to phone home to rearrange transportation home.
8.
Smoking is an offense for which there is a separate policy. If a student is caught smoking on campus, his/her parents will be called immediately and a suspension will be given. A second offense will result in an additional suspension during which the family must make arrangements for the student to enter a smoke-enders program. (All tobacco products come under the “smoking” policy.) A third offense may likely lead to dismissal from the school.
Consequences for Major Offenses
In the case of major Honor Code violations, the following list suggests several consequences that may be engaged, though not necessarily in that order, depending on the severity, nature, or situation of the issue at hand.
Warning
– This constitutes a formal reprimand for the violation. A letter will be sent to the parents reviewing the incident and emphasizing its seriousness. A further violation of school rules may result in probation, suspension or dismissal.
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Probation
– This constitutes formal written notice that the student has either violated a specific school rule, or has in some manner shown willful disregard of the community. Probation indicates that a student’s conduct is being closely observed, and any further major violations would result in suspension or dismissal. Students on probation will have their reenrollment contracts withheld until the term of probation expires without any additional incident.
Suspension
– Because of a major violation of school rules or repeated incidents requiring oncampus discipline, it may be beneficial for a student and the school community for that student to be separated from the school to reflect on the attitudes and/or actions which led to the suspension. Suspension is not a way to reject the student; rather it is an opportunity for the student to change in positive ways. Students who are suspended return to school on probation for a prescribed period of time. During the time of probation, a student can actively demonstrate his/her desire to be a constructive member of the GSB community and insure his/her continued presence here.
Dismissal
– At times, the action(s) of a student convince(s) the school that he/she either does not want to be a member of our community or that he/she must be permanently separated from it.
Moreover, sometimes it is not constructive for the school or for the individual to be retained within the community. Such a decision might come after a single act, a series of acts, or as a result of a year-end review of the student’s behavior. While dismissal constitutes the most significant response the school can take, it is our only course of action when serious violations occur.
GILL ST. BERNARD’S RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DISMISS, AT ANY TIME, A
STUDENT WHO, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE HEADMASTER, IS
DETRIMENTAL OR DANGEROUS TO OTHER CHILDREN, AND/OR THE
REPUTATION AND INTEGRITY OF THE SCHOOL. PARENTAL SUPPORT OF THE
SCHOOL IS AN EXPECTATION. IN CASES WHERE PARENTS ARE
INAPPROPRIATE IN THEIR COMMENTS OR ACTIONS, THE STUDENT WILL
FACE DISMISSAL.
Items Not Allowed
Gill St. Bernard’s has an active, challenging program that requires everyone’s attention and energy during each school day. Therefore, students should not bring to school:
Pets or other animals;
Excessive amounts of money (more than $20);
Ipods, CD players, radios, etc.;
Skateboards;
Rollerblades;
Recording devices – without permission of a teacher;
Items of considerable material or sentimental value without parental consent for a particular use;
Chewing gum
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Cell Phones
The GSB policy concerning student cell phone use in school reflects a realization that contemporary cell phones are powerful computers that can serve as useful learning tools. At the same time, phones hold significant potential for distraction and can compromise an individual’s right to privacy. Our policy recognizes age and stage differences, and is therefore division specific.
In the Middle School, students may have phones on their person, but all student phones should be shut off and kept in an appropriate place. During the school day, if a student needs to use his or her phone, the student should go to the office and ask permission. Phone calls will be made in the office area. Parents should not contact students via phones during the day except in the case of an emergency. Text messaging or the use of phone cameras in school is expressly forbidden without adult permission.
In all divisions, using phones to photograph or video others without expressed permission is forbidden. Any phone use that compromises the safety or security of others is similarly forbidden. If a student uses his or her cell phone in an inappropriate manner, he or she may be subject to forfeiture of the cell phone, loss of cell phone privileges on campus, or more serious disciplinary actions depending upon the type and frequency of the violation.
TECHNOLOGY – DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP
The school recognizes that academic technologies are dynamic, interactive multimedia and a necessary part of a modern curriculum. The world in which our students live requires that they be comfortable with and skilled in the use of technology. We want this technology to help us improve and supplement our current teaching strategies and to expand and enrich the academic experience of our students.
The computers and other technological resources made available to students, faculty, staff and administration should be viewed as an extension of Gill St. Bernard’s physical environment, and their use entails the same privileges, obligations, and responsibilities that come with using any school facilities. Students who fail to exercise responsibility when using the school’s computer equipment and resources may be assessed damages or replacement costs, or may lose the privilege of computer use on campus. Deliberate and/or intentional vandalism or theft of any computer hardware or software on the campus is considered a major infraction of the school’s rules. Cases of misuse of technology that has a negative impact on others in the school community will be referred to the Middle School Director and Dean of Students.
The following rules applying specifically to computers and technology should be observed whenever using the school’s resources:
1) Take proper care of all computer equipment.

No food (including candy or gum) or drink is allowed in the vicinity of any school computer or in any computer lab.
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
If a computer is not working properly, do not try to fix the problem yourself. Leave the computer on and do not exit any programs that are running. Ask your teacher to report the problem to the technology staff and use another machine.

No fooling around or horseplay of any kind in allowed around computers.

Online use in the Conover or Chapin labs, the Multimedia Center in Chapin and the libraries must be supervised by a teacher or other adult.

Upper School students may use the Chapin lab unsupervised only with the permission of an Upper School teacher.
2) Respect the needs of those engaged in academic or school-related work.
 Gill St. Bernard’s computer resources exist to assist students and faculty in attaining their educational goals. Academic work takes precedence over recreational use of the computers and those individuals with academic or school-related work have priority at all times.

When using programs with sound, please use headphones.
3) Computer workstations are a shared resource.

Changing the configuration of any hardware or software is prohibited.

Do not change desktop icons, wallpaper, backgrounds, etc.

Do not alter or modify the system configuration. This includes, but is not limited to, autoexec.bat, config.sys, and win.ioni files.

No one may use school computers to support a private business.

Restore environmental settings such as sound volume or desktop patterns and colors after use.

Do not store your personal work on the hard drive of any school computer, unless authorized by your teacher. Save work to a disk or other portable media.

Creating a computer virus and/or intentionally infecting school computers will be considered vandalism.
4) Adhere to all laws concerning the use and distribution of copyrighted software.

Students are not allowed to upload application software (programs or files) to any hard drive or network file server.

Students are not allowed to download or copy any programs or files installed on a school computer or file server for use at home without written permission from the technology department.

Applications on any portable media may not be run on school machines without prior approval from the technology staff.

Students, faculty and staff must abide by all patent, copyright or license restrictions relating to all computer software and documentation on campus. No personal or unauthorized software should be copied to any school computer. This includes, but is not limited to, software that permits access and downloading from MP3 websites.

Illegal copying of software is a serious federal offense that carries severe criminal and civil penalties under federal law.
5) Use appropriate and respectful language at all times.

Communication over the network or using the school’s computers must involve appropriate language and content. The use of profanity, gender or racial slurs, inflammatory language, sexual harassment or sexually suggestive communication, or any form of malicious language is prohibited on the network, in e-mail, on bulletin
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boards, during conferencing sessions, during any school-sponsored activity, or on sites such as www.myspace.com
, www.facebook.com
, etc.
6) Use e-mail and the Internet wisely.

All students, faculty and staff are welcome to use e-mail to communicate with others.
However, the school does not guarantee privacy when using school resources. The network is used by many and is monitored by the school and outside technologybased companies.

Use the Internet only in the presence of and with permission from a teacher. The adult must be aware of what you are doing and what site you are visiting.

Activities should be school-related. No personal messaging (e-mail, instant messages or visits to chat rooms) is permitted. o Follow all of the instructions the teacher gives and stay within the sites that are part of the assignment or project.

Use of sites such as Myspace.com and Facebook.com when off-campus should be guided by thoughtfulness and respect.

Never give out any of the following personal information about yourself or anyone else on the Internet: o First or last name o Phone numbers o Address o Where you go to school

Give the complete source of information in a bibliography. Use the format required for your grade.

No downloading or uploading of files (music, pictures, etc.) without permission.

No playing of Internet games, unless instructed by a teacher.

The following uses are also strictly prohibited: o Any use of the network, internet, or e-mail for commercial or for-profit purpose; o Any use of the network, internet, or e-mail for product advertisement or political lobbying.

Students, faculty and staff may not post private information about themselves or others. This includes, but is not limited to names, phone numbers and addresses. In addition, reposting of messages sent to you may not be done without the express permission of the person who sent the original message.

Any abuse of e-mail and other types of communication on computers will result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from school – even for a first offense.
10) Stay out of unauthorized areas.

Storage areas on the network file server that contain school records and other official correspondence are off-limits to all students.

Students should NOT attempt to gain access through hacking or any other means.
The unauthorized use of passwords may result in dismissal, even for a first offense.

Office computers are off-limits to all students.
11) Follow all rules during off-site access to the school’s website and/or e-mail service.
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
All the rules set forth in the above Digital Citizenship Policy apply during off-campus use of the school’s computer resources and must be adhered to.

Students who use home computers for the harassment of other students, of faculty or to threaten a student or faculty member in any way will be in violation of the school’s acceptable use policy. In this event, the school will consider the situation as a major disciplinary violation and the student could face suspension or expulsion as a result.

All communication between students and faculty from home computers should be limited to school assignments and other school-related matters.
12) Personal Webpages and social networking sites can impact students and the school.

Be careful what you post (words, pictures, etc.)
 Understand that once you push the “send” button, the information is on the web forever.

Threats, degrading, or other inappropriate postings may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Cases will be reviewed by the Middles School
Director and Dean of Students.
10) While the school does not regularly monitor sites, it will take action in the event that a situation is brought to its attention.
11) All the guidelines and rules in the Technology section also refer to cell phones .
DRESS CODE
At Gill St. Bernard’s School, clothing should match the circumstance or activity in which one is involved. We believe that what a person wears influences behavior and indicates a purpose. Our dress code is designed to help encourage our students to start making appropriate dress decisions on a daily basis. All GSB students are expected to dress in a neat, clean manner that reflects a responsible attitude toward the school community as a whole. Making sure that students are dressed appropriately for school is the responsibility of the parent, not the school.
However, if a student arrives at school inappropriately dressed, the school reserves the right to direct the student to change immediately. In cases where this is not possible, the school may provide appropriate clothing or a parent may be required to bring in appropriate clothing.
While we pride ourselves on being one school community, there are obvious differences in the needs and requirements of the different aged students. Therefore, slight differences occur in the regulations governing the dress in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. Please refer to each
Division Section for its specific dress code. The dress code is in effect throughout the year, including exam periods and Unit.
Daily Dress Code
A list of items not permitted can never be complete as long as fashions continue to change as quickly as they do. The school reserves the right to make changes to the dress code at any time, including during the school year.
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1.
As stated above, GSB students are expected to dress in a neat, clean manner. “Neat and clean” assumes that there will be no holes, fraying, rips or tears in school clothing.
Clothing should fit well and not be oversized, too tight, revealing, suggestive, sloppy, or anything else deemed inappropriate by the Middle School Director or Dean of Students.
2.
Hats and sun glasses of any kind should be removed when entering any building on the
Gill St. Bernard’s campus and should remain off for the duration of the student’s stay in that building. Hats and dark glasses may be worn again only after exiting the building.
The only building exempt from this rule (for hats) is the gymnasium, and only during athletic events. Students who violate this rule may have the items confiscated for a period of time.
3.
Clothing may not have lettering or pictures that are inappropriate, distracting or suggestive in any way. Advertisements and slogans (such as name brands and sports teams) are not permitted.
4.
Pants should fit neatly around the waist. Conventional dress slacks that are neat, tidy, appropriate length, and conform (to item #1) are acceptable. Pants with belt loops should be worn with a belt, neatly fastened. Athletic and sweat pants, camouflage, blue jeans or denim pants of any kind or color are not acceptable for school wear.
5.
Shorts, flip-flops and sandals are appropriate in the month of September and after May 1, depending on the weather. Students are not permitted to wear gym shorts, short shorts or cut-offs.
6.
Skirts, dresses and shorts must reach the top of the knee or longer.
7.
Leggings are considered to be worn as tights, and so must be worn with a top or skirt that is knee length or longer.
8.
Girls are required to wear a shirt with a clearly defined collar. Examples of acceptable shirts are polo shirts, oxford shirts, and blouses with similar collars. All tops must be either tucked in or must neatly cover the top of the pants or skirt. However, shirts with shirt-tail hems (oxford style) must be tucked in. Blouses and shirts must cover the shoulder. Shirts that do not cover the shoulder must be worn with an appropriate overshirt, sweater, or jacket. Athletic styled t-shirts, t-shirts with designs, or collarless shirts are not acceptable dress for school.
9.
No revealing clothes (such as those that show midriff or lower back when bending, moving or stationary), tank tops, tube tops, halter tops, or muscle shirts are to be worn at school.
10.
No blue or other colored denim pants, skirts, jackets, shorts, shirts or clothing of any type will be permitted.
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11.
Boys must wear a collared shirt. Shirts with shirt-tail hems (oxford style) must be tucked in. Shirts that have a straight hem (polo-style) may be tucked in or must neatly cover the top of the pants. Shirts may not be over-sized or excessively long. Athletic styled t-shirts, t-shirts with designs, or collarless shirts are not acceptable dress for school.
12.
Athletic shoes, if worn, must be in good repair with no holes or tears.
13.
The only sweatshirts allowed are GSB, plain or college sweatshirts. A collared shirt or turtleneck must be worn and visible underneath.
14.
Inappropriate jewelry or accessories, including studded items or heavy chains, will not be permitted.
15.
Bizarre hair colors or styles, on either boys or girls, are inappropriate for school. Facial hair, such as a beard or mustache, is acceptable for school if it is kept neat, trimmed and well-groomed. Other bodily adornments such as visible, permanent tattoos or body piercing, other than ear piercing, are not allowed.
Special Events Attire
When students in Grades 5-12 are off campus on field trips, away at athletic events, or representing the school on campus at occasions such as concerts and special evening assemblies and dances, students are expected to dress appropriately. The faculty reserves the right to ask the students to wear a skirt and blouse or dress for girls, or a jacket and tie for boys, if they feel it is appropriate for the situation.
Disciplinary Actions for Dress Code Infractions
First Offense – Disciplinary warning given with particular violation note
Second Offense – Lunch detention given and parents may be called to bring an appropriate change of clothes. Record noted.
Third Offense – An after-school detention may be assigned, parents may be called to bring an appropriate change of clothes. Record noted.
Repeated offenses will be dealt with by either the Middle School Dean of Students or the Middle
School director.
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Grades Pre-Kindergarten through Fourth
Table of Contents
General Statement of Lower School Philosophy………………………………………...……88
Attendance and Tardiness……………………………………………………………….…….88
Student Life and Activities …………………………………………………………………….89
Daily Procedures
Bus and Car Line Arrangements
Extended Day Program
Assemblies
Class Trips
Birthdays
Grandparents Day
Holidays
Supplies
Telephones
After School Activities
Academic Grades and Reports………………………………………………...………………91
Homework
Parent Conferences and Progress Reports
Testing
Prizes and Awards
Other Services and Resources …………………………………...…………………………….92
Library
Birthday Books
Reading Resource Specialist
School Counselor
Physical Education ……………………………………………………………………………..93
Discipline……………………….……………………………………………...………………...93
Lower School Dress Code……………………………………………..…….………………….93
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GENERAL STATEMENT OF LOWER SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
Here at the Gill St. Bernard’s Lower School we have
G reat S tudents B ecoming great leaders, learners and well-rounded individuals. We embrace uniqueness, diversity and individuality. We educate each child within the four educational quadrants that achieve maximum growth and potential in each of our young learners. We educate a child academically with a rigorous curriculum with the highest of standards. We educate a child in the physically with programs that foster development in fine and gross motor. We educate a child socially providing multiple opportunities to make, keep, and sustain friendships along with our outstanding Character
Education program. And finally we educate a child emotionally, always being keenly aware of the inner balance a child needs to navigate through each day. Attention to each of these areas allows us to provide the very best early education your child needs to succeed, thrive and enjoy life in this ever-changing world.
ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS
Absence from School
If a child is going to be absent, it is important for parents to call either the Attendance Hotline
(1-800-803-8254) or the Lower School Office (908-234-1611, ext. 241) before 8:00 a.m.
Accounting for the attendance of our students is a high priority . Parents should give a reason for the absence or else it will be recorded as unexcused.
Students will not be excused for vacation purposes. Vacations are considered to be an unexcused absence and because of this policy, teachers will not give assignments in advance or be available to help students make up missed lessons and work.
In the case of an excused absence, whenever possible, teachers will assist with make-up work.
Requests for excused absence assignments will be honored when adequate notice is given.
Tardiness
If a student arrives at school after 8:15 a.m. he or she must sign in before reporting to class. The sign in sheet is located adjacent to the security desk in Cox Lower School. This also applies to those Lower School students who enter from the Middle School car line.
Frequent tardiness is unfair to your child and disruptive to the rest of the class.
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STUDENT LIFE AND ACTIVITIES
Daily Procedures
Classes begin promptly at 8:15 a.m. Children should not be dropped off before 7:45 a.m.
Students arriving between 7:45 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. are to report to the Lower School art room.
Students arriving after 8:15 a.m. are considered tardy and should sign in at the security desk before going to class.
Dismissal is at 2:45 p.m. for Early Childhood and at 3:00 p.m. for Grades 1 - 4. Parents with children at both dismissal times should pick up at 3:00 p.m. Children who are not picked up by
3:30 p.m. will be put into the Extended Day Program at an additional fee. No students in grades
Pre-Kindergarten - 4 may ride the late bus at 5:30 p.m.
Bus and Car Arrangements
Bus - Please notify the office in writing when your child is not riding the bus. Occasionally a child may wish to go home with a friend who rides the bus. The office can make the necessary arrangements as long as space permits and a written request is given. No more than two guests may ride at one time.
Car - A child must bring written notification of any changes to normal car line plans .
Extended Day Program
The school offers an extended day program which provides after-school care for our students on a daily basis. This is available for students in Grades Pre-Kindergarten — 4. It begins at the close of the school day and runs until 6:00 p.m. Students may enroll on a daily basis or for the school term. Daily reservations are as space permits and require 24 hours notice to the Lower
School office. Unwarranted late pick-ups will be subject to a fine. Terms of the Extended Day program may be found in the contract included in the summer mailing.
Assemblies
Periodically the Lower School students will have an assembly. At this time, general announcements are made and there may be a brief presentation from a teacher, student or class.
The primary goal is to reinforce the idea that we are all part of a community.
In addition, Lower School students gather throughout the year for programs presented by outside speakers and professional ensembles.
Class Trips
During the year, classroom work is occasionally supplemented with off-campus experiences.
Parents will be asked to sign a permission slip for field trips prior to the excursion. Occasionally parents will be invited to chaperone, depending on the educational program. Buses or vans will be hired for the trips, unless the trip is within a short distance from the school.
If you are not comfortable with your child attending a particular field trip, it is acceptable to keep your child home that day.
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Birthdays
We recognize that birthdays are very special days in a young child’s life. We strive to honor your child’s birthday and acknowledge that we are delivering a full curriculum each and every day to all students. Classroom birthday celebrations may be sharing a snack with the class that is brought from home. Or your child can choose to have a 15-minute recess for his/her class in lieu of a snack. The times for this recess will be determined by the classroom teacher as not to disrupt the curriculum. The day for the extra recess may or may not be the exact date of your child’s birthday.
No birthday party invitations may be given out in school. All invitations for any and all parties must be sent through the mail.
Grandparents Day
Every other year the Lower School celebrates Grandparents Day in the spring. A musical assembly program, visits to the classrooms, and a picnic lunch make for a special day for students and grandparents alike. Invitations and reply forms are sent home with children well in advance of the occasion.
Holidays
Gill St. Bernard’s is a nonsectarian school which does not officially recognize any one religion.
Knowledge and understanding of a variety of religious beliefs and practices is part of the educational process. The school will provide assemblies and special programs to increase student understanding of the various cultural and religious beliefs represented in our student body. Parents are encouraged to participate in, and offer support for, such programs by contacting the class teacher.
Supplies
At the beginning of the school year, most basic school supplies are available in the classroom for student use. Occasionally however, additional supplies may be requested by some grade level teachers.
Telephones
Should a child feel an urgent need to contact home, he or she may seek permission from the
Lower School administrative assistant or the Director to use the office phones. A student may not use the phones to call to seek permission to bring a friend home. Please try to complete all after school arrangements prior to your child’s arrival at school.
When necessary, messages to teachers or children in the Lower School can be transmitted through the Lower School administrative assistant. Unless it is an emergency, she will respond as soon as it is convenient.
The GSB policy concerning student cell phone use in school reflects a realization that contemporary cell phones are powerful computers that can serve as useful learning tools. At the same time, phones hold significant potential for distraction and can compromise an individual’s
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right to privacy. Our policy recognizes age and stage differences, and is therefore division specific.
In the Lower School, students may have phones that can be kept in their backpacks and turned off. In the case of emergency, phones may be used, with the permission of a teacher or administrator. Parents should not contact students via phones during the day. In all cases of an emergency, parents should contact Nancy Stober in the Lower School Office at ext. 241. Text messaging or the use of phone cameras in school is expressly forbidden without adult permission.
In all divisions, using phones to photograph or video others without expressed permission is forbidden. Any phone use that compromises the safety or security of others is similarly forbidden. If a student uses his or her cell phone in an inappropriate manner, he or she may be subject to forfeiture of the cell phone, loss of cell phone privileges on campus, or more serious disciplinary actions depending upon the type and frequency of the violation.
After School Activities
The Lower School has fall, winter and spring After School Activities. Information and details regarding these activities will be posted on the school intranet approximately two weeks before they begin.
ACADEMIC GRADES AND REPORTS
Homework
The Lower School faculty recognizes the following purposes of homework:
- to foster independence and responsibility;
- to provide additional practice of skills and opportunities for applications of
concepts;
- to utilize resources not available in the classroom or school environment.
Homework assignments begin in Grade 1. Homework assignments are given on a regular basis, beginning in Grade 2. Children are not expected to work longer than 30 minutes. Children in
Grades 3 and 4 are not expected to work longer than 45 minutes. It is important to remember that these are guidelines; individual differences in work habits and pace must be considered.
The Lower School encourages all children to read daily for pleasure. This can be accomplished at home by independent reading, reading aloud to someone and/or being read to by an adult.
Parent Conferences and Progress Reports
Good parent-teacher communication is one of our school’s major goals. We encourage both teachers and parents to initiate contact whenever concerns arise. At the beginning of school, brief “get acquainted” parent conferences will be held for new students and all students in the
Early Childhood division. Parents of returning students in Grades 1 - 4 will receive a phone call
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from their child(ren)’s teacher(s). The purpose of these initial conferences is for teachers and parents to share information and insights about the child, discuss initial adjustment to school and mutually set goals for the year. No formal written report will be given at this time. Conferences will also be held in early November and February.
Students in Pre-Kindergarten: Parents will receive regular communication throughout the year.
A final report will be mailed to the parents in June.
Students in Grades Kindergarten — Grade 4: Parents will receive a report card comprised of ratings in November and February. The final report with ratings and comments will be mailed home in mid-June.
Testing
Lower School students in Grades 1 - 4 participate in a standardized testing program administered in the spring. This program includes achievement and aptitude tests. Results are shared with parents as soon as they are received and reviewed by the Lower School director. Any student whose progress needs further evaluation may be tested individually at the teacher’s or family’s discretion.
Prizes and Awards
The Amol Anjinka Citizenship Award is the highest and most prestigious award in the Lower
School. It is presented annually to a student in Fourth Grade.
OTHER SERVICES AND RESOURCES
Library
The Lower School library is open five days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Books may be checked out for one week for Kindergarten through Grade 2; and two weeks for Grades 3 and 4, renewable as long as there is no other demand for the materials.
Birthday Books
Through the Lower School library, parents may purchase a book to remember their child’s birthday. The book, given to the library collection in honor of the student, will have a mounted bookplate inside the front cover bearing the child’s name. The child is the first borrower of the book. We appreciate the parental support of this program which continues to provide the library with quality works of children’s literature.
Reading Resource Specialist
A reading specialist is available on a full-time basis. Teachers and the Lower School Director will consult and refer children who may need additional language arts instruction. They will work on an individual basis or in small groups during the school day.
School Counselor
A school counselor is available for students and families should the need arise. Contact the
Lower School office for further information.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
All students participate in the Physical Education program. If, for any reason, a child is unable to participate, he or she should bring a note from a parent or a doctor asking to be excused.
DISCIPLINE
Individual teachers handle most problems. Recurring difficulties may require the intervention of the Lower School Director and/or parent consultation.
Lower School students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for other members of the community and at a level of maturity appropriate to their age. To fulfill these expectations, students must respect both the rights of others and school property.
It is never acceptable to physically or verbally harass another student. Bullying, intimidation, or threats to any member of the school community will not be tolerated and may result in suspension from school.
Bringing certain items to school can be problematic for children. Please help us by assuring that your child does not bring the following to school: chewing gum, candy, soda, drinks in glass bottles, toys, and money (except for school sponsored activities).
DRESS CODE
The Lower School has a standardized dress code. A list of acceptable items and how to order them may be found on the school web-site: www.gsbschool.org
. A school code for ordering items will be provided to you by the Lower School Office.
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