1 TABLE OF CONTENTS I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Philosophy and Objectives Religion Policies Administration A. Admission and Withdrawal B. Registration and Tuition C. School Yearbook D. Scrip Policy E. School Hours F. Attendance Policy G. Medication Policy H. School Cancellation I. Dropping Off and Picking Up Students J. Asbestos K. Nondiscrimination Statement Academic Policies A. Core Subjects B. Fine Arts, Foreign Language and Physical Education C. Instrumental Music D. Internet Safety Student Assessment A. Grading Scales B. Honor Roll C. Report Cards D. Mid-Term / Progress Reports E. Parent / Teacher Conferences F. Standardized Testing G. Speech, Title 1, Other Special Needs Behavior and Discipline A. Behavior B. Personal Belongings C. Discipline Policy Uniform Policy Guidelines A. Uniform Policy B. Consequences C St. Francis de Sales Uniform Chart D. Uniform Descriptions Parent/ School Communication and Organizations A. School to Home Communication B. Supporting Groups C. Resolution of Problems Services A. Hot Lunch B. School Insurance C. Bus Transportation D. Extracurricular Activities Fund Raising A. Spring Gala B. Scrip School Calendar Acknowledgment of Receipt 2 3 4 5 5 5 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 13 13 14 15 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 18 18 19 20 2 l. MISSION, PHILOSOPHY and OBJECTIVES Mission Statement It is the mission of St. Francis de Sales School, in conjunction with St. Francis de Sales parish and the Diocese of Superior to provide Catholic education of the highest quality. We do this with faith, love and respect: nurturing and encouraging students to develop their gifts to the fullest potential. “Go, then, to all peoples everywhere and make them my disciples… and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28: 19-20 With these words Christ commissioned his Apostles and their successors to carry the Gospel message to all people. As a part of the Church, the Catholic School shares in this mission of proclaiming Christ’s message. We believe: St. Francis de Sales Catholic School is a vital Christian community where teachers strive to be models for the children whose lives they touch each day. All children have the right to a learning environment that is safe, loving and respectful. Children learn in different ways, at different rates and with different abilities, but ALL CHILDREN LEARN. Parents are the primary educators of their children. Parental, family and parish support of the school with time, talent and treasure forms the basis of the school structure. The school exists as a mission of the church to serve the children of the parish and the community at large. Our objectives are: Create an atmosphere enlivened by the Gospel in which the child experiences Christian living and from here brings these experiences to the home and community. The child will be an example to others of what it means to live a vibrant Christian life of love and service. Aid in the formation of the total human person, including moral, intellectual, emotional and social growth, so that each child will become all that God has called him/her to be. Transmit the Gospel message through thorough instruction of the religious truths and values that Christ has left us in His Church, and also to inspire our students to the practice of prayer and worship. Develop in the students a positive self-image, a sense of self-worth and responsibility which will be evident by the respect they have for themselves and for others. Promote a spirit of self-discipline, whereby the student guided by Christian principles will make right choices and learn to be self-directed. Maintain a strong academic program of the basic skills which will enable each child to achieve success according to his/her own capabilities, and thus prepare the child to assume a responsible position in adult life. 3 Vision Statement Serving God through Serving Others By Being an exemplary Catholic school, St. Francis de Sales School will be: A community of believers who celebrate the faith traditions of the Catholic Church through prayer and worship in a climate of love and respect. We use our God-given talents to live out Christ’s message. An educational community who lives out its duties through high standards by developing challenging curriculum. Our dedicated and qualified teachers foster a love for learning and encourage critical thinking and team work. We understand that effective teaching is based on the discovery of the unique learning styles of each individual. A community of learners who seek to nurture and develop each ones gifts through a vibrant and structured student life. This Christ centered learning environment considers the whole child: Mind, Body and Spirit. We believe students who take responsibility for their own development become productive and contributing parishioners and citizens. A community of “extended family” who support and work with our teachers and administration. Parents and guardians contribute to the vitality and richness of our school by organizing activities and special events. We recognize how a small school setting fosters a more personal relationship between families, teachers, and administration. A community of individuals who are committed to a lifetime of service to benefit themselves and others. We show compassion for our neighbors through stewardship of time, talent, treasure and prayer. St. Francis de Sales School will strive to live out its mission, beliefs, and vision now and in the future in conjunction with St. Francis de Sales Church and the Diocese of Superior. Adopted 2011 II. RELIGION POLICIES 1. All full time students registered in the school are expected to participate in religion classes and other school religious activities. 2. Religious doctrine and theology classes are formally taught as an academic subject. Religion grades will be recorded on the report card and are determined by assimilation of religious content. 3. Classroom prayer is shared at the beginning of the school day, before and after lunch, and before dismissal at the end of the day. A variety of prayer experiences are provided. Students are expected to memorize the common devotional prayers of the church and use them during prayers in the classroom and at home. 4. All the school children participate in the Sacred Liturgy to the extent that they are able, serving as lectors, song leaders, musicians, or altar servers; preparing Prayers of the Faithful; 4 or acting as gift bearers in the Offertory procession. Ordinarily the children attend Mass every Wednesday and parents are encouraged to participate. 5. Catholic students prepare for the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion during religious education class. The sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated during the fall of the second grade year with preparation beforehand. Opportunities for Reconciliation will be provided for the students in grades three through eight during the school year. Preparation for the sacrament of Holy Eucharist takes place during the second grade year with celebration ordinarily scheduled on a Sunday in April. 6. Service oriented projects are sponsored throughout the year, which encourage students to share their blessings (time, talent, and treasures) with those less fortunate. 7. Family Life is taught through the religion classes throughout the year. The program includes a student book and parent information. Parents are welcome to examine these materials at any time. Parents will be notified before any sexual information is discussed. 8. The “Keeping Kids Safe” program will be taught during the first semester of the year. Information for parents will be sent home as necessary. lll. ADMINISTRATION A. ADMISSION AND WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES Admission: Any student registering for admission to St. Francis de Sales School must complete a registration form. In grades where registration interest exceeds available space the following policy applies: 1. 2. 3. 4. Parish members with students in the school Parish members enrolling their first student Non-parishioners with students in the school Non-parishioners enrolling first student Accepting New Students: This section of the handbook applies to new students in grades K – 8. Before the enrollment of a new student in grades K – 8 will be accepted at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, all behavioral, social, physical, emotional, and academic information (including plans, IEPs, etc.) will be provided for review by the principal. The principal will review all information provided in order to determine if the needs of the child can reasonably and adequately be met by the school. In addition, all new students are subject to a three month probationary period. Immunization Records: State law requires all public and private school students to submit written evidence of immunization against certain diseases within 30 school days of admission. Records are validated by the Washburn County Nurse. A parent may request a waiver for the immunization requirement for religious or other reasons. A form is available from the Washburn County Nursing Agency for this purpose. Withdrawals: In the event that a student withdraws from school, all textbooks and materials borrowed from the school must be returned before records will be sent to another school. 5 B. REGISTRATION and TUITION Registration fees and Tuition are set by the St. Francis de Sales Education Committee. Current school families register for the following school year each spring. Registration forms, scholarship applications (if necessary) and non-refundable registration fees are due at that time. New families must pay the registration at the time of enrollment. Current Registration Fee: Current Tuition: (K-8) PreK 3 & 4 PreK $100.00 / K-8 $200.00 $1600.00 Half Day(8:05am-12 noon or 11am-3pm) / Full Day Option (8:05am-3pm) $20.00/day – Full Day $15.00/day – Half Day Parents/Guardians are required to sign a tuition contract which includes name(s) of children, parish affiliation, total tuition and fees due, and payment schedule. C. SCHOOL YEARBOOK A school yearbook is created by the 7th/8th grade class each year. This book is available to purchase in the Spring of each year. Copies of the book may be purchased ONLY by students, parents or other relatives of students. Outside parties with no connection to the school may NOT purchase copies of the book. D. SCRIP POLICY Starting July 1st, 2011, each school family enrolled at St. Francis de Sales is expected to generate $200 in Scrip profit per family (not student) per school year. After this obligation is met, any profit the family generates will be calculated as follows: 1 child enrolled – 50% of profit generated will be given as tuition credit. 2 children enrolled – 60% 3 children enrolled – 70% 4 children enrolled – 80% and so on. Scenario 1: A family with 3 school children generates $500 of profit; $200 will go towards their Scrip obligation and $210 (70% of the remaining $300) towards their tuition. Scenario 2: A family with 1 school child only generates $50 of profit. Since the $200 Scrip obligation was not met the remaining balance of $150 will be added to their tuition. The bottom line is the more you shop with scrip the lower your tuition will be. Scrip is an easy, no cost fundraiser that can have a direct positive impact on your wallet. Financial Aid: Any family enrolled at St. Francis de Sales School may apply for financial assistance. Both diocesan and parish scholarships are available. No family is turned away. Part Time Students: are expected to participate in events that are a part of the curriculum for the class they are enrolled in. All students are expected to follow school rules when present. Uniforms are required for concerts. Part time tuition for each class is $350.00 Please contact the school office to enroll as a part time student. 6 E. SCHOOL HOURS ½ day PK All day PK Grades K – 8 : School begins 8:05 or 11:00 8:05 8:10 AM Recess *9:50 – 10:05 **Lunch 11:15 – 12:15 11:15 – 12:15 11:15 – 12:15 Dismissal 12:00 or 3:00 3:00 3:00 * Students in grades 7 and 8 do NOT have the AM recess. ** Students in Grades PK3 – 2nd will eat lunch at 11:15 and have recess from 11:45 to 12:15. Students in Grades 3 – 8 will have noon recess at 11:15 and will eat lunch beginning at 11:45. The school will be open for students to arrive at 8:00am. Early Release: Students will be released at 12:00 p.m. on early release days. F. ATTENDANCE POLICY Regular attendance in school is required by law. However, we request that parents/guardians keep children home if they are ill. We ask that a parent or guardian call the school office prior to the start of the school day if their child will not attend school. A note for school records must accompany your child when they return. In accordance with state law, all children between ages 6 and 18 must attend school full time until the end of the term, quarter, or semester in which they become 18 years of age unless they have a legal excuse. Regular attendance and promptness are essentials of good performance on any job. Absence from school is the greatest single cause of poor achievement in school. If a pupil is not regular in attendance, her/his performance lags, she/he loses interest and tends to fall behind. The student’s home and the school take responsibility to assist young people to develop good habits of attendance. If a student is absent (full or half day) or tardy more than 10 days in a semester except for illness, the parent/guardian may be contacted. Further action, may be taken as necessary. If attendance continues to be a problem, it will be pursued as outlined under SS.118.16 (5) by referral to the Washburn County District Attorney or Washburn County Human Services. Students may not leave the school grounds during class hours, (8:10 AM to 3:00), unless accompanied by a parent/guardian or with the written permission of a parent/guardian. Notes should be given to the homeroom teacher. Tardiness: Students who arrive at school after 8:15 AM are considered tardy unless tardiness is due to late busses. Illness: 1. Parents/Guardians must report all communicable diseases to the school immediately. 2. If a child is not to go outdoors due to illness, a written explanation must be given to the homeroom teacher. For conditions lasting more than 3 days, a doctor’s permission is required. 3. If a student becomes ill during the school day, he/she is to notify their teacher and report to the office. If the illness is serious enough to warrant parental attention, a member of the school staff will inform the parent/guardian. 7 4. If a child becomes ill, keep them home from school for 24 hours after the fever is gone. Vacations: The school should be notified in writing at least 2 weeks prior to vacations of more than 1 school day. Make-up work will be the responsibility of the student and their parents. Make up work should be completed within one week after the student's return. If possible, parents are encouraged to schedule vacations when school is not is session. Funerals: Students may be excused from school to attend the funerals of immediate family members or close family friends. Please contact the school as soon as possible to arrange for these absences. G. MEDICATION All medication, prescription and non-prescription must be sent to school in the original labeled container and brought to the office for storage. It may only be dispensed by a staff member. Inhalers may be kept in the classroom if accompanied by a doctor’s recommendation which is given to the teacher. Over the counter cough drops may be used in the classroom only if accompanied by a parent note with dosage and specific period of use indicated. A Medication Consent form must be completed before the school can administer prescription medication. H. SCHOOL CANCELLATION St. Francis de Sales School will follow the Spooner Public School District's Closing Policy. In the event of severely inclement weather or mechanical breakdown, school may be closed or starting time delayed. The same conditions may also necessitate early dismissal. School closing, delayed starting time or early dismissal will be announced over all of the local radio stations: WCSW Shell Lake (940 AM), WHSM Hayward (101.1 FM), WRLS Hayward (92.3 FM), WJMC Rice Lake (96.1 FM), WAQE Rice Lake (97.7 FM), WDIO-TV (10/13), KDLH-TV (3) KBJR-TV (6) and KSTP-TV (5) http://www.kstp.com. Reports in the morning will be broadcast between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM. If no report is heard, it can be assumed that school will be in session. Please do not call the school. In addition, the principal may cancel school if deemed necessary, to be announced on the above radio stations. I. PICKING UP/DROPPING OFF STUDENTS and PARKING: > Cars dropping off students must pull up either on High Street or the school alley. DO NOT use Oak street for drop off and pick up. Please note that Oak Street in front of the school is a NO PARKING ZONE. > Parents coming into the school to pick up their children after school are asked to wait downstairs in the entry area. Please send a note or call the school by 2:30 to inform us if your child’s ride plans change. > Parents picking up children early must check in at the office. > Parents dropping off and picking up their children are asked not to park in the school bus zones. This is on Oak Street in front of the school. The parking lot across the street may be used if you need to come in the school. Oak Street is a NO PARKING zone during school hours. J. ASBESTOS The management plan for asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM) required by the federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response ACT (AHERA) has been performed for this 8 facility. The management plan is on file at the school office and is available for public inspection upon reasonable notice. If desired, a copy of the plan may be obtained. K. NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT The Catholic schools of the Diocese of Superior admit students of any race color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at these schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration or their educational policies, admission policies, scholarship or loan policies and athletic and school administered programs (Pursuant to IRS Procedure (75-50) section 4.2a). IV. ACADEMIC POLICIES A. CORE SUBJECTS All students receive instruction in Language Arts, Math, Reading (Literature), Religion, Science, Social Studies and Spelling. These core subjects follow the curriculum guidelines set down by the State of Wisconsin and the Diocese of Superior. B. FINE ARTS, FOREIGN LANGUAGE AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION All students receive instruction in art, computer technology, music (theory and performance), physical education, and Spanish according to diocesan guidelines. C. INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC Grade 4: Students learn to play the recorder as an introduction to instrumental music. A $10 fee covers the cost of the recorder, case, cleaning swab and all music. Grades 5 – 8: All students in grades 5 – 8 are required to study a musical instrument and perform with the Junior Band or Concert Band. In addition to two whole band practices per week, all students will have a 30 minute small ensemble lesson. The lesson schedule will rotate each week so that students do not miss the same class repeatedly. Students who use a school owned instrument will be charged a yearly rental fee of $50.00 to cover general maintenance and cleaning. Repair of damaged instruments will be the responsibility of the renter. Students must have a lesson book that is available through the school at a discounted price. Supplies such as reeds, swabs, oil etc are also available. D. INTERNET SAFETY All students and their parents will be required to sign an internet safety pledge. Internet use should be related to curriculum/lesson plans and have a definite educational purpose. V. STUDENT ASSESSMENT As partners in the education process, parents shall be informed periodically about the academic and developmental progress of their children. Their efforts at home can be increased by knowledge of what is happening at school. The customary method for reporting pupil progress is the quarterly report card. (Diocesan policy 5500R) 9 A. GRADING SCALES K – 4 – School work for students in grades K – 4 will be assessed and graded according to the following criteria and scale: E = Excellent; continuously uses skills and/or understands concepts G = Good; more often than not, uses skills and/or understands concepts S = Satisfactory; sometimes uses skill and /or understands concepts I = Improvement needed; Not yet achieved. Needs extra practice 5–8 A = Outstanding/Excellent understanding and application of grade level skills B = Above Average understanding and application of grade level skills C = Average understanding of grade level skills D = Below Average understanding and application of grade level skills F = Immediate improvement needed; consistently does not meet minimum criteria. A “+” or “-“ may be added to the grade to indicate different levels within the grade category. B. HONOR ROLL / AWARDS – HONOR’S MASS Students in grades 5 – 8 are eligible for honor roll. ALL grades are used to obtain a student’s grade average. Students with an average between 85% and 92% achieve the “B” honor roll. Students with a 93% (or higher) average achieve the “A” honor roll. A grade of “D” or “F” in ANY subject area EXCLUDES a student from honor roll eligibility. A Honor Roll – 93% Average or higher – NO grade of “D” or “F” B Honor Roll – 85% to 92% Average – NO grade of “D” or “F” Averages will be calculated based on the scale as follows: A+ = 100% A = 98% A- = 94% B+ = 92% B = 90% B- = 86% C+ = 84% C = 82% C- = 78% D+ = 76% D = 74% D- = 70% F = 68% The first time you have achieved Honor Roll you will receive a medallion on a ribbon and a certificate. Each time you earn Honor Roll after that you are awarded a pin and a certificate. Honor roll students should wear their medallions to each Honor’s Mass. C. REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued at the end of each quarter. This report is for the parents to keep. The original is kept in the student’s permanent file. The final report card of the academic year will be mailed to parents. 10 D. MID-TERM / PROGRESS REPORTS All student grades for students in grades 5 – 8 will be recorded in the online grading system (Engrade). All students and parents will be encouraged to access this system so that they are informed about student grades and progress at all times. Due to the instant availability of grades online, no formal mid-term reports will be issued. E. PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES Two parent-teacher conferences will be held during the school year. In addition teachers will contact parents/guardians when educational concerns arise. F. STANDARDIZED TESTING The MAP testing will be administered to all students in grades K – 8. MAP or Measures of Academic Progress, is a computerized adaptive test which helps teachers, parents, and administrators improve learning for all students and make informed decisions to promote a child's academic growth. G. SPEECH, TITLE I AND OTHER SPECIAL NEEDS Parents or teachers may initiate the process to determine if a child has special needs beyond the scope of the regular classroom setting. This testing is done by the Spooner Public School special needs teachers and staff. Any child who meets the criteria for special needs will be provided these services through the public school. VI. BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE A. BEHAVIOR We all share responsibility for creating and maintaining a safe, and happy environment inside our school and outside on the playground. We strive to make everyone feel welcomed, loved and respected. We encourage students to grow in self-direction and self-discipline. The following behavior guidelines will help us create a school where children can learn to their fullest potential. Students shall be respectful and courteous to all adults. Students shall be kind and respectful to one another in their words and actions. Students shall treat school and personal property with respect. Bullying will not be tolerated. Please see the Anti Bullying Guidelines. CLASSROOM CONDUCT It is the student’s responsibility to arrive at school on time and be seated in the classroom with necessary supplies for the day when the bell rings. Within each classroom and with each teacher, students should behave with respect, courtesy and cooperativeness towards meeting the teacher’s expectations. Students are expected to practice quiet and orderly behavior appropriate to church, halls, classroom, etc. Everyone is asked to practice common courtesies of please, thank you, and excuse me. ANTI BULLYING GUIDELINES St. Francis de Sales School is committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers and patrons free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. Harassment, intimidation or bullying means any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, when the intentional written, verbal or physical act: Physically harms a student or adult or damages the student’s or adult’s property; or Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education or 11 Is severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational or work environment; or Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendo’s, demeaning comments, drawing cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. These may include electronically transmitted acts i.e. internet, cell phone, pda or other wireless hand held device. “Intentional acts” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s). The following factors shall be given consideration by teachers, administrators and the pastor for determining appropriate consequences and remedial measures for each act of harassment or bullying. Factors for determining consequences: Age, development, and maturity levels of the parties involved Degree of harm Surrounding circumstances Nature and severity of behavior(s) Incidences of past or continuing pattern(s) of behavior Relationship between the parties involved Context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred Examples of consequences but not limited to the following: Admonishment Loss of privileges Service experience Restitution or restoration Conference with parents Temporary removal from the classroom Classroom or administrative detention In-school suspension during the school week or the weekend. Out-of-school suspension Legal action Expulsion or termination Classrooms and Hallways: Students shall keep their desks and classrooms clean, neat and orderly. Students should walk in a quiet, orderly manner in the hallways and stairways. It is the student’s responsibility to arrive at school on time and be seated with necessary supplies for the day when the bell rings. Within each classroom and with each teacher, students should behave with respect, courtesy and coopertativeness towards meeting the teacher’s expectations. Church: Students should always walk and speak softly when in the church. They should genuflect before entering or leaving the pews. Respectful behavior at all times is expected. When passing through the church on their way to another classroom they should pause and bow or genuflect before the tabernacle. Lunchroom: Students should enter the lunchroom area in an orderly manner and wait in line to be served. They should speak courteously to those who are serving the food. Students should go to their assigned seating area and stay seated until they have finished eating. Voices should 12 be kept at normal conversational levels. Students shall clean their area and return their trays before leaving. Students are not allowed to use a refrigerator to store lunch items so please plan accordingly and use cold packs, etc. in lunch bags/boxes to keep food cold. In addition, there is NOT a microwave available in the lunchroom for student use so please plan accordingly when sending lunches to school for your student. Playground: Students are expected to be outside during recess, unless permission has been obtained from a teacher. In situations of inclement weather the principal will make a determination to allow students in the building, but as a rule children will be outside every day. Students must be on the playground, inside of the fence. They are not allowed on the sidewalk of the Oak Street entrance, or in the alley between the school and the Civic Center. The judgment of the playground supervisor is the overriding factor in all playground situations. Students displaying continued inappropriate or harmful behavior will be sent directly to the office. In the event of an injury, school emergency procedures will be followed. Bicycles/Skateboards/Scooters: Bicycles, skateboards and scooters may not be ridden on school grounds from 7:55AM–3:30PM B. PERSONAL BELONGINGS Parents are asked to monitor the personal items students bring to school. The school can not be responsible for broken, lost or stolen items. As a general rule, students should not bring items to school that are not part of the academic supplies needed for the school day. Candy/Pop/Gum: Students may not bring candy or pop to school for snacking or lunch. Cell Phones/Pagers/Electronic Games/ CD or DVD Players and Radios: Students are discouraged from bringing these items to school. All cell phones, pagers, electronic games; CD or DVD players and radios must be shut off when the student enters the school property and must remain off throughout the day. Failure to comply with this policy will result in loss of privileges. Dangerous Objects/Tobacco Products/Drugs: These items are prohibited on school property. Use or possession of any of these items requires an automatic referral to the police department and parents. After a conference with parents, the police and Pastor, suspension or expulsion may be recommended. C. DISCIPLINE POLICY Any member of the St. Francis de Sales School staff may refer a student for discipline. Students referred for discipline must report to the office. The following consequences will be assigned: First referral loss of all recess for one day / parent may be notified Second referral loss of all recess for two or more days / parent will be notified Third referral loss of recess & other privileges / parent meeting will be requested In the event of severe or continuing discipline issues a student may be assigned an out-ofschool suspension, the length of which will be determined by the principal. All assignments and tests will be graded zero for the duration of the suspension. A meeting between the principal, 13 pastor and parents must occur to discuss whether the student will be allowed to remain at St. Francis de Sales School. VII. UNIFORM POLICY GUIDELINES A. UNIFORM POLICY All students must wear the school uniform as described in the Student Handbook. Our preferred suppliers are Lands’ End and J.C. Penney. Students will not be allowed to wear items that do not meet the uniform criteria. (Other uniform suppliers may be used as long as ALL guidelines as to style, color, etc. are followed.) To ensure correct color, all khaki clothing items should be purchased from our preferred suppliers. Non-uniform days may be determined at the discretion of the principal. Parents will be notified 1 week in advance of any non-uniform days that are added. Wednesdays: All students are required to wear a red Spirit Shirt to school on Wednesdays. Field Trip: A red polo with the St. Francis logo is to be worn on field trips or events that take place off of school grounds. Birthdays: Students may dress following Non-Uniform Day guidelines for their birthday. Student Picture Day: Students should dress according to the Special Event guidelines. Winter Wear Students should dress warmly in winter including hats and hand coverings. Students will go outside unless temperatures or wind chill are below 0. Grades K – 4 must wear snow-pants and boots when there is any snow on the playground or temperatures are below freezing. Grades 5 – 8 must wear boots or bring a dry pair of shoes for indoor wear. B. CONSEQUENCES Students will be required to change clothing or remove items that do not meet uniform criteria. (The school has a limited supply of uniform shirts, pants and skirts.) If appropriate clothing is not available at school, parents will be called. Parents will be notified of uniform infractions so they may help their child choose appropriate clothing. ST. FRANCIS DE SALES SCHOOL UNIFORM JC Penney and Lands’ End Uniform Catalogs are the uniform suppliers for SFdS. 14 You may choose to use other suppliers as long as the dress code guidelines are followed as to style, color, etc. *** Wednesday – All students required to wear RED Spirit Shirt. ***Field Trips – All students required to wear Red Spirit Shirt. Boys Grades K – 4 Girls Grades K - 4 Shirts Red, white or navy polo shirt, turtleneck, hooded or crewneck sweatshirt, cardigan sweater or vest Dresses Red and navy polo dress with logo Jumpers/Pants/Shorts (no exterior pockets) Navy pleated jumper, pants, skort Navy shorts or capris (Sept/May/June) Shirts Red, white or navy polo shirt, turtleneck, hooded or crewneck sweatshirt, cardigan sweater or vest Pants (no exterior pockets) Navy pants Navy shorts (Sept/May/June) Girls Grades 5 – 8 Boys Grades 5 – 8 Shirts Red or navy polo shirt, turtleneck, hooded or crewneck sweatshirt, cardigan sweater or vest Skirts/Pants/Shorts (no exterior pockets) Navy or khaki pleated or A-line skirts, zip front pants, skort, shorts or capris (Sept/May/June) Shirts Red or navy polo shirt, turtleneck, hooded or crewneck sweatshirt, cardigan sweater or vest Pants (no exterior pockets) Navy or khaki zip front pants or shorts (Sept/May/June) Concert Attire Boys Grades PK – 4 Girls Grades PK - 4 Dress outfits follow Special Event guidelines. Dress outfits follow Special Event guidelines. Girls Grades 5 – 8 Boys Grades 5 – 8 Shirts White short or long sleeved oxford style shirt Skirts/Pants Black zip front pants or calf length or longer skirt Black shoes and socks or nylons Shirts White short or long sleeved oxford style shirt Skirts/Pants Black zip front pants Black socks and shoes Marching Band (Girls and Boys 5-8) Black zip front pants/School Band Shirt/Tennis Shoes Non - Uniform Day Girls Boys Shirt (sleeved and full length) Pants (at the waist) Shorts (no more than 3” above the knee) Knee length skirt Sleeved/knee length dress Closed toe shoes and socks Shirt (sleeved and full length) Pants (at the waist) Shorts (no more than 3” above the knee) Closed toe shoes and socks Special Events Girls Sleeved Top Dress pants Sleeved/knee length dress or skirt Closed toe dress shoe with 2” or less heel and heel support Boys Collared Shirt Dress pants Tie (optional) Belt Closed toe shoes and socks Note: Jewelry may be a modest necklace and non-dangling earrings. Make up should be minimal and natural appearing eye, cheek, lip and nail colors. Sock and tights should be natural, red, white, blue or black. NonUniform Day Clothing may not display inappropriate wording, pictures or advertising. Appropriateness of Nail color, makeup and jewelery will be at the discretion of the principal. Any student wearing makeup, nail color or jewelry that is a distraction or deemed inappropriate by the principal will be asked to remove the inappropriate item(s). Undershirts, tanks, camis and so forth must be tucked in and/or NOT visible. Please refer to the School Handbook for more information. 15 Shirts Sweatshirts Sweaters Pants Capris Shorts Skirts Jumpers Dresses Skorts Shoes Socks Belts Jewelry Hair Make Up Hats Note: Uniform Descriptions Polo or turtleneck style purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. SFdS sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts purchased from Lands’ End or JC Penney. Cardigan and crew neck purchased from Lands’ End or JC Penney. Plain/zip front/interior pockets purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney Capris purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. Plain zip front/interior pockets/knee length shorts purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. Pleated or A-line knee length skirt purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. Pleated knee length jumper purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. Mesh Polo Dress purchased from Lands’ End. Knee length chino skort purchased from Lands’ End, Old Navy or JC Penney. Loafer/Oxford//Tennis style (closed toe and heel) shoes with solid color shoelace. Suggested colors: white, tan, brown, black or grey. Solid color navy or white socks or tights. Natural color nylons. Up to 1 ½” width brown/navy/black plain style belt. Modest necklace and non-dangling earrings. Natural color and well groomed hair. Minimal, natural appearing eye, cheek, lip and nail colors. Hats and bandanas may be worn outside of the building. Knee length is described as no more than 2” above or at the knee bend line. 16 VIII. PARENT COMMUNICATION AND ORGANIZATIONS A. SCHOOL to HOME COMMUNICATION To facilitate good communication with parents each student will receive a folder that they will bring home every Thursday. This folder will contain communication from the school office including monthly schedules of events, school lunch menus, notes from teachers and any other necessary communication, along with completed and graded schoolwork. All communication from the school will only be sent home on Thursday. Parents /guardians will be required to sign or initial a Parent Signature Sheet in the folder acknowledging that they received all the information for that week. Students are required to return their Thursday Folder to their teacher by the following Monday. Parents will be notified if their child does not return this folder. Teachers are available from 7:45 to 3:15 daily or by appointment. We encourage parents/guardians to contact teachers with their concerns at any time. Anonymous letters or other forms of anonymous communications will not be accepted. If you have an issue or a concern please follow the proper chain of command as noted in “Resolution of Problems.” B. SUPPORTING GROUPS Home and School Association: This group consists of all parents having students in the school, as well as other adults wishing to attend. It is the primary support group for the teachers and the school. Active membership is desired of every parent in the school. Meetings are held monthly. In addition, the Home and School Association sponsors several scholarships for college bound high school seniors who are graduates of St. Francis de Sales School. Education Committee: This group is an advisory committee that aids the school administration in matters such as setting school policy, personnel decisions, and budget allocations. Meeting times to be announced. C. RESOLUTION OF PROBLEMS The following chain of command should be followed if a problem arises and a parent has questions on any matter: 1. Speak to the teacher concerned. 2. If a problem is not resolved at this level, make an appointment with the principal. 3. If the problem remains unresolved, discuss the issue with the Pastor. IX. SERVICES A. HOT LUNCH PROGRAM St. Francis de Sales School offers hot lunches daily to students and staff. WI DPI provides regulations regarding food groups and portion sizes to be served. Regulations require that students choose three of the five food groups offered, to allow for individual preferences. Lunch Prices Grades PreK-4 Grades 5-8 Guest Daily Lunch cost, Milk Included $2.60 $2.85 $3.50 17 Milk ($.30) and Juice Drinks ($.50) are available for students who bring a cold lunch or would like additional beverages with their meal. They can be charged to the student lunch account or paid for at the time of use. Parents are asked to please keep payments up to date for school lunches. A Lunch Account Balance will be sent home monthly. Students whose Lunch Accounts are in arrears for more than one week will be asked to bring a cold lunch from home until the account is brought up to date. Students are not allowed to use a refrigerator to store lunch items so please plan accordingly and use cold packs, etc. in lunch bags/boxes to keep food cold. In addition, there is NOT a microwave available in the lunchroom for student use so please plan accordingly when sending lunches to school for your student. Applications for reduced or free lunch are available in the school office. All applications are considered confidential and students who qualify for reduced or free lunches are not differentiated from other students when passing through the lunch line. B. SCHOOL INSURANCE Students of the schools in the Diocese of Superior are not covered for medical bills or other costs related to accidents occurring on the playground or in the school. Personal medical and accident insurance is the responsibility of each child’s family. C. TRANSPORTATION SERVICES The Spooner or Shell Lake Public School District, depending on the student's residence provides transportation to and from school. Students are expected to represent St. Francis de Sales on the bus, just as they would in any situation. All bus rules are to be followed. Each bus service provides parents of students riding the bus a list of rules, regulations, and the disciplinary policy. Assistance in obtaining transportation will be given to parents living in other school districts, but this is a matter that must be worked out with that school district. A note is required if a student will be riding a different bus home with another student. D. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Students at St. Francis de Sales School are given the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities including, e.g., Lego League and Destination Imagination (DI). Students, parents and others participating in activities such as these must remember that they are representatives of our school and should demonstrate appropriate conduct at all times and should produce quality academic work to remain eligible to participate. For activities such as Destination Imagination, the topics of group activities should be approved by the Education Committee and scripts written for planned skits or other planned activities must be approved by the Education Committee and/or the Principal. It is important to remember that all school rules apply while participating in such activities. In addition, parents must be in compliance with all rules or their child(ren) will not be allowed to participate. Field Trips and School Sponsored Events: 1. Field trips are a part of the educational program and supplement classroom teaching. Students must have a completed and signed permission slip on file by the deadline to participate or you will remain at the school and do alternative work in a supervised area. Students will NOT be allowed to phone home for permission. 2. Students are expected to follow all school rules and obey all adult supervisors. 18 3. Student’s failure to behave in a respectful manner may result in loss of privilege for the student’s next field trip and/or other assigned school consequence as determined by the principal. 4. Students are required to wear a Red Spirit Shirt on ALL field trips. X. FUND RAISING Financial support of our school is the responsibility of our parish cluster and all school families. Families are asked to participate in the following school fund-raisers to the best of their ability. Diocesan guidelines for school support suggest that 20% of school funding should be raised through development and fund raising. Funds generated from these events are budgeted as income to the school. Each family will be called on to assist with a fundraising activity during the year. A sign up will be available at the “Back to School Night” or sent home with the first Thursday folder. If the form is not completed and returned, you will be assigned an event to assist with. In addition to helping with the various fundraising activities there are ample opportunities for volunteering in and around the school. A. SPRING GALA or FUNDRAISER The spring gala is a dinner event that includes raffles and auction items. Organization of this event begins in fall with committee formation. B. SCRIP The scrip program is an on-going fund raiser of store gift cards and certificates that are sold to the school at a discount. The school in turn sells the gift card and certificates (known as scrip) at full face value. The difference between the discounted price and the face value is the profit for the school. The principal is the final recourse and reserves the right to amend this handbook. Parents will be given prompt notice. 19 ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT St. Francis de Sales School I _________________________ have received and have been given an opportunity to read a copy of the Parent Handbook dated 2015-2016. I understand that it is my obligation as a parent to read it and become familiar with its provisions. I further acknowledge that it has been explained to me that these policies may be subject to additions, amendments, changes or revocations without notice. If I have any questions regarding the policies or how they apply, I have the right to ask the principal - or another member of the St. Francis de Sales School staff. ____________________________________ _________________________ Parent Signature Date Calendar Template by calendarlabs.com