Welcome Letter from our Local Superintendent

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Welcome Letter from our Local Superintendent

Dear Parents and Students,

I welcome you and your family to St. Mary’s. I am very happy that you have chosen St. Mary’s Catholic School for your child (ren)’s educational needs.

All of us working together can provide the religious, moral and educational values necessary for the best development of your child (ren).

The purpose of the Handbook is to give you the rules and policies that will be followed at St. Mary’s School in addition to some general information and schedules. Therefore, I authorize this handbook for the school.

I ask your support and prayers that this will be a blessed, safe and productive school year for all of us. May God bless you.

Yours in Christ,

Reverend Joseph R. Ross

Pastor/Superintendent

“The future of humanity lies in the hands of those who are strong enough to provide coming generations with the reasons for living and hoping… educational programs for the young must strive to teach doctrine, to do so within the experience of Christian community, and to prepare individuals for effective Christian witness and service to others.” TO TEACH AS JESUS DID

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL

611 S.W. A AVENUE

LAWTON, OKLAHOMA 73501

Pastor/Superintendent

Reverend Joseph R. Ross

(580) 355-2054

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

St. Mary’s Catholic School’s mission is to teach children to

Moral values, who are achieve academic excellence and to know, love, and serve God by serving others. St. Mary’s students are:

Spiritually responsible,

Trustworthy citizens, with

Academically prepared,

Respectful, reliable and resourceful

Young people, guided by the Catholic faith to

Serve God and others.

PHILOSOPHY OF ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL:

St. Mary’s Catholic School has a vital and dynamic reason for existence. The school will strive to encourage a life filled with Christian values and Christ-like choices. Rightly, then, St. Mary’s works closely with each child’s family in helping the student become an involved and mature follower of Jesus.

Teaching and learning are directed to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, social and emotional development of the child. Catholic truths and values are integrated, not only in the curriculum, but also in the free interaction that takes place between the teachers and the students of the school. The school attempts to excel in every subject offered. Our approach is neither completely traditional nor modern, but utilizes proven contemporary techniques.

Our school’s greatest asset is the spirit of faith community that exists among the staff members, parents and children of St. Mary’s School. As a group, the faculty makes a conscious effort to set a good example of Christian living.

OBJECTIVES

1. To encourage continuous student growth and the development of skills in problem solving, decision-making, creative thinking and communications.

2. To provide educational opportunities that meet student needs using developmentally appropriate methods.

3. To help the students become responsible productive citizens by involving them in community service.

4. To encourage students to develop a positive self-concept, to recognize their unique potential and to use their God given talents.

5. To form our students in the Catholic teachings by celebrating the presence of God in our daily life through daily prayer, school liturgies and sacramental preparations.

6. To encourage communication and cooperation between the home, school and community.

7. To support the administration and faculty in their continued personal and professional growth in the areas of education and spirituality.

8. To build respect for self and all God’s creation by promoting courtesy, cooperation, tolerance and willingness to serve.

ACCREDITATION

The school is under the direction of the Office of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma State Department of Education recognizes our accreditation under the Oklahoma Conference of Catholic Schools Accrediting Association (OCCSA). The school is also an active member of the National Catholic Education Association.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

St. Mary’s Catholic School does not discriminate regardless of race, color, ethnic background, social or economic status, or sex. Since we are a religiously oriented school for the Catholic community, we give preference to members of the Roman Catholic Church, but we also welcome members of other denominations after our own community is served.

ENROLLMENT AND ADMISSION PROCESS

Before admission is completed:

1. The parents or guardians of the applicant will supply the school office with complete grades, report card, birth certificate, immunization records and sacramental records (Baptism and First Communion Records for all Catholic students).

2. During the admission process, St. Mary’s will request student records from schools previously attended. Parents/guardians are required to provide the name, address and phone number of previous schools. Parents shall inform the school if the child has special needs, however, records pertaining to an individual education plan must be handled by the public school district.

3. The Principal may review records and may require an interview with the parents or guardians, and prospective students before final admission is granted.

4. After considering the information obtained by the methods described above the principal will determine if both:

a. The educational needs of the student can be met by the services available at St. Mary’s Catholic School and

b. If the presence of the prospective student will not be detrimental to the present school clients and school program.

5. Any new student being admitted to St. Mary’s will be on probation for a period of three months. The student must meet academic and behavioral standards. Evidence of cooperation with the school faculty on the part of the parents or guardians will be required as well. Parents are expected to give a good example of attendance at Mass.

6. At the close of the probationary period, students may be dismissed if behavior and academic standards have not been met. This does not preclude dismissal of the student before the probationary period ends, if behavioral incidents of a serious or repetitive nature occur, and/or there is no indication of academic progress.

7. It is emphasized that the above-mentioned are guidelines with the final decision on admission to be made by the Principal.

GENERAL ADMISSION POLICIES

The basic purpose of Catholic Schools is to assure that Catholic truths and values are fully integrated with the student’s life and academic program. Students should not apply unless they desire and intend to participate fully in the religious program of the school. (Policy Statement, Archdiocesan Handbook for Elementary Schools) *Registration is held each spring and the dates are published to the public.

1. Priority for admitting students include:

a. Children of financially contributing parishioners of Blessed Sacrament Parish and Holy Family.

b. Children of new parishioners, who have been enrolled in other Catholic schools or Religious Education Programs.

c. Applicants seeking transfer from public or other non-Catholic schools and non-parish students may be admitted if open spaces are available and the Principal judges the intent to be in accord with the mission of the school.

d. The ability of the faculty and curricula to meet the educational, religious and personal needs of the students.

e. Behavioral problems will be considered before final admission is granted. Behavioral contracts may be required in certain cases.

2. According to Oklahoma State Law, (1982, Section 14) those entering school for Kindergarten must be five (5) years old on or before September 1^st of the current academic year. First Grade student must have completed an accredited Kindergarten Program. Students entering school from a non-accredited school may be required to be tested for proper placement and may be placed in kindergarten.

3. Children who will be four (4) years of age by September 1^st, of the current school year are eligible to apply for the Pre-Kindergarten Program.

4. Testing and assessment may be required before enrollment. The test instrument and assessment of a child’s degree of readiness will be determined through consultation with the school administration.

5. We require Birth Certificate (indicating U.S. citizenship or student visa), Baptismal Certificate and Immunization Records for all incoming Kindergarten, First Graders and new students. Transfer students must bring the previous school’s report card or valid proof of academic records for proper grade placement of the student.

6. At the time of registration, a non-refundable fee of $100.00 per student is required to reserve the student’s placement. A $300.00 academic fee is charged per child and is due before classes begin in August. Final enrollment for all students will be held in August and parents will be notified of these dates.

7. The preferred class sizes are as follows:

Pre-Kindergarten 18 students per teacher

Kindergarten 18 students per teacher

Grades 1-3 20 students per teacher

Grades 4-8 22 students per teacher

Enrollment situations change yearly and certain circumstances may require modifications to the class sizes as listed above. Combined classes (also known as split-level classes) will be arranged in a special manner with planning and implementation coordinated by the administration and faculty. The Principal and/or Pastor make the final decisions in these matters, and exceptions may be contingent upon conditions set by the school administration.

FIRST GRADE SCREENING FROM NON-ACCREDITED PROGRAMS

For those who are new to our school and entering our First Grade, we request that certain admission procedures be followed in order to ensure optimal success and appropriate placements for our students.

Since St. Mary’s is an accredited school with an enhanced curriculum, we want the student’s transition into our program to be as smooth as possible. So, if a student is transferring from a Kindergarten Program not accredited by the State Department of Education of Oklahoma or the state from which he or she is transferring, the following provisions are to be followed:

Each student transferring from a non-accredited Kindergarten Program into our First Grade must take a readiness test and enrolled on a 3-month probationary contract.
The type of readiness test will be chosen and administered by St. Mary’s Catholic School and the child’s performance will be scored and ranked by Stanine.
Students achieving scores ranking them in a Stanine of (5) or above will be given regular placement in the First Grade.
Students achieving a score ranking them in the Third (3) or Fourth (4) Stanine will be placed on academic probation in entering the First Grade. They may be placed in Kindergarten if indicated by poor performance in First Grade.
Students achieving a score ranking them in the Third (3) or Fourth (4) Stanine and who display social and behavioral immaturity shall be recommended for placement in the Kindergarten class.
Students achieving a score ranking them in a Stanine Below Three (3) will be placed in our Kindergarten class. If classroom performance in Kindergarten indicates that the student can perform at First Grade level, the student will then be re-assigned to First Grade.

The readiness test will be administered on two separate dates by an assigned teacher at St. Mary’s Catholic School. The testing will be done in a classroom designated as the testing area. Parents will not be permitted in the testing area. Parents may choose to wait at the school during the test or they may leave an immediate contact number and we can call you to pick the child up when testing is completed. The duration of the testing time including any breaks and transition time is about 2.5 hours. The readiness test shall be administered sometime in June (TBA).

On either of these dates, we ask that parents check in with the front school office at least 20 minutes before test time so the teacher may be properly introduced to the children and get them prepared for the test.

TUITION POLICY

Parents and guardians are required to participate in the school’s tuition management program.
Parents and guardians will be responsible for sending tuition payments to SMART tuition management program. Any checks returned due to insufficient funds will go through collections and a service fee applied. (Repeated occurrences will result in a cash only (cash, cashier’s check or money order) status for future payments.)
Tuition payments are not to be refunded or pro-rated when entering or withdrawing school at off times of the month, unless special arrangements have been made with the Principal prior to entrance or withdrawal.
Any family who has had a returned check on payments made for St. Mary’s fees, will be required to submit bank checks, money orders or cash as the only accepted means of payment for delinquent tuition or fees after May 10th of the academic year.
Past due tuition accounts may be grounds for student dismissal until the account is brought current.
Tuition payments and any other fees must be current (No delinquencies) before a families’ pre-registration for the coming school year will be accepted. Placement will not be secured until fees and tuition is current.
Diplomas and report cards, and any release of permanent records will be withheld until all fees and tuition payments are paid in full.

Tuition scale is as follows:

a) There is a $100.00 NON-REFUNDABLE registration fee required to reserve placement.

b) There is an Annual Academic Fee of $300.00 per child, and payment is required before classes begin in August.

c) Kindergarten through eighth grade:

Number of Children Monthly Tuition Yearly Tuition

1 $295.00 $2,950.00

2 $560.00 $5,600.00

3 $795.00 $7,950.00

d) Pre-K: 1 $335.00 $3,350.00

(*No discounts apply to Pre-K, 6^th, 7^th, 8^th grade students.)

SCHOOL FEES

The academic fee will cover:

ITBS Book Rental Art Materials Workbooks Library Fund PE Equipment Computer Materials

Office Supplies and Forms Supplemental Materials

A separate fee will be collected for supplemental paperback books such as the Weekly Reader, as required by individual teachers during the school year. The cost of these supplements shall be the passed on to the student – they are not part of the annual school bill.
If a book is lost or damaged it must be replaced by the student/parents. Marking, tearing or defacing a book will be considered a cause for replacement. The penalty on a replacement will be the current list price of the book. Report cards will be withheld pending payment of money due.

4. Cafeteria Fees are to be paid to the “St. Mary’s Cafeteria” and given to the Cafeteria Manager on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Fees are as follows:

Student Breakfast - $1.25 Adult Breakfast - $1.50

Student Lunch - $2.00 Adult Visitor Lunch - $3.00

5. Cafeteria fees are to be paid in advance. Menus are sent home at the beginning on the month, so that school meals can be planned ahead of time. No child will be refused a meal at school due to non-payment, but please consider the financial burden delinquent cafeteria fees places on the school. School records will be held due to delinquent cafeteria fees.

Before and After School Care Program:

This service is for working parents. There is supervised care from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. and 3:25 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. on regularly scheduled days. Parents are required to complete registration papers for students who will participate in this supervised program. The fees are described on the registration sheet. All parents/guardians are responsible for these fees when the service is utilized as scheduled or when students are required to go to after school care if they are not picked up in a timely manner (See Arrival/Dismissal Policies).

Delinquent fees from the before and after school care program, gives the school the right to revoke the student(s) participation in this service.

UNIFORM POLICY

All St. Mary’s students, pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, are required to be well groomed and in compliance with the dress code each day The following dress code is mandatory, and parents will be notified of infractions. Parents may be required to bring appropriate dress to school if students attend school in clothes that do not meet dress code specifications.

Girls

Pre-K – 5^th grade girls’ bottoms are to be solid navy; middle school girls, grades 6^th – 8^th, are to wear Khaki bottoms (only) and may include knee-length skirts, full-length slacks, jumpers, Carpi’s or long length shorts and skorts. No contrasting stitching is permitted, and shorts and skorts are to be no shorter than three inches above the knee. It is recommended that girls wear athletic shorts underneath their skirts or jumpers.

Girls are to wear collared shirts, short or long sleeves that are solid white. Collared shirts may include polo shirts, button blouses, turtlenecks or oxford shirts. No contrasting stitching or trim, ruffles, or sparkles are not permitted.

3. Socks may be tennis (no show), Athletic shoes that have closed backs and are dark in color (i.e., black, navy, gray, or brown) may be worn with all school uniforms. Students are encouraged to wear dress shoes for Wednesday’s Mass, and may change into athletic shoes afterwards. Athletic shoes worn for P.E. are required to have a full back (no mules). Shoes should fit snugly. Name brand shoes are not prohibited, but if problems arise regarding this issue, the school reserves the right to immediately alter the dress code requirements. Girls may wear dress shoes without socks on Wednesday.

Boys

Boys’ bottoms may include solid navy blue trousers or long-length shorts in Pre-K – 5 grades. Middle school grades 6^th – 8^th will wear Khaki bottoms (only) No contrasting stitching is permitted.
Boys are to wear collared shirts, short or long sleeves that are solid white. Collared shirts may include polo shirts, turtlenecks or oxford shirts. No contrasting stitching or trim is permitted.
Socks are to be solid white or navy.
OPTIONAL: NAVY TIE ON WEDNESDAY

Shoes (Girls and Boys)

1. Athletic shoes that have closed backs and are dark in color (i.e., black, navy, gray, or brown) may be worn with all school uniforms. Students are encouraged to wear dress shoes for Wednesday’s Mass, and may change into athletic shoes afterwards. Athletic shoes worn for P.E. are required to have a full back (no mules). Shoes should fit snugly. Name brand shoes are not prohibited, but if problems arise regarding this issue, the school reserves the right to immediately alter the dress code requirements. Girls may wear dress shoes without socks on Wednesday

2. The following types of footwear are NOT PERMITTED: Sandals, boots, shoes without backs, shoes with high heels, shoes that light up or shoes with cleats. Boots may only be worn to school during inclement weather, but students must change into uniform shoes while in the school building.

Coats/Jackets/Sweaters

Students may wear any heavy outer garment of their choice to and from school, but coats should be removed upon entering the classroom. Lightweight sweaters or sweatshirts, in navy, or white may be worn in the classroom and throughout the school building during school hours; this includes the navy blue P.E. sweatshirt.

Special Uniform Notes:

1. Sleeveless shirts, sheer shirts or shirts without collars are not allowed.

2. Shirts may be either short-sleeved or long sleeved.

3. The dress code prohibits make-up, artificial nails, acrylic overlays or colored nail polish. No Hoop earrings or earrings larger than a dime may be worn. Boys will not wear earrings when in school uniform. One simple ring may be worn on one finger. Bracelets, wrist bands, and necklaces, of any type, will not be worn A wristwatch may be worn.

4. A student’s natural hair color may not be changed in any manner. Hair with colors, highlights, streaks, etc will not be allowed. Hairstyles that create problems of health and sanitation, obstruct vision, or are designed to call undue attention to the individual are not permitted.

5. Boys’ hair shall be well groomed and not touch the collar. Styles that are not permitted include, but are not limited to braided, tails of any length, Mohawk, spikes or styles designed to call undue attention to the individual are not permitted. Ball caps, hats, and sunglasses are NOT PERMITTED, in the classroom.

6. Complete scout uniforms may be worn on meeting days.

Physical Education Uniform:

1. Proper attire for P.E. class shall be a combination of any solid NAVY BLUE t-shirt, (white and blue St. Mary’s logo t-shirts or athletic shirts may be worn) shorts, sweatshirt and/or sweatpants with or without the St. Mary’s logo. No logo other than St. Mary’s will be accepted.

2. Tennis shoes or soft rubber soled shoes are required for P.E. class and must have a full back – no open backs.

The curriculum at St. Mary’s is outlined to attain the educational objectives set forth in our philosophy and is in accordance with the regulations set by the Office of Catholic Schools from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Full-time, certified teachers and part-time lay teachers facilitate our curriculum.

St. Mary’s curriculum for grades Kindergarten through seventh includes every day instruction in the subject areas of Religion, Math, Reading, Language Arts (penmanship, language and spelling), Science and Social Studies. The instruction of our curriculum is achieved through an integrated approach that is neither completely traditional nor modern, but utilizes proven contemporary techniques.

Our Language Arts Program includes phonetic-based instruction, along with whole language approaches and basal readers at the primary grade levels. Additionally, the Accelerated Reader Program is utilized in grades 1-8 to enhance the reading components of our Language Arts Program.

Physical Education and Health, Art, Music, Computer Literacy, Spanish, and Library Skills are offered twice or more times a week.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM

St. Mary’s offers a program for four-year-old children and admission into the program is limited to students who have had their birthday on or before September 1^st of that academic year. Practicing Catholics have first option for admission during pre-enrollment in the spring. The curriculum for Pre-Kindergarten offers reading, writing and math readiness and fine and large motor skills development. There is an emphasis on social awareness and faith values.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

Preparation for the reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation (Penance) and Eucharist is primarily the responsibility of the parents. Parents must follow the Church requirements for sacramental orientation and reception. St. Mary’s School will foster the Catholic formation by offering sacramental preparations as a part of the second grade religion curriculum.

A major policy change has been made regarding the reception of sacraments for those students who are Blessed Sacrament parishioners. All “First Communions” will be received on an individual basis prior to a group communion. A “First Confession” must be made prior to the “First Communion.”

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

St. Mary’s School offers physical education classes on a weekly basis for every student, Pre-kindergarten through eighth. Students are required to be dressed in proper P.E. attire when participating in P.E. classes (see uniform code). Depending on grade level, younger students are to wear their P.E. clothes to school on P.E. days, and the older students change at school.

2. Any student who cannot participate because of injury or illness must have a note from parent/guardian to be excused that day. If the time of non-participation is for more than one gym period, a note from a doctor is required.

3. Students who are unable to participate in P.E. due to physical difficulties or long-term illness must have an (ISP) Individual Service Plan developed.

TESTING

Each year, St. Mary’s administers the standardized Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) to students in kindergarten and above. This is administered during the fall semester and scored according to the national fall norms. Standardized tests scores may be used as one of the determining factors for placement in the Title 1 Reading Program. A Cognitive Abilities test is given to 3^rd and 5^th graders during the same testing timeline as the ITBS.

Classroom teachers may use a variety of testing and evaluation techniques. Formal tests may be used from test banks made available from the textbook publishers and tests may be custom made by the teachers. Informal types of evaluations methods may include oral exams, written assignments, homework, individual and group projects, classroom activities, etc.

Teachers are required to administer some form of classroom testing and evaluation and are required to follow the school’s grading scale. However, the type of testing, the techniques and the point values are under the discretion of the classroom teacher. Regular classroom testing on daily curriculum may not be administered on a Monday. Long-range assignments may be given over the weekend.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are issued on a rental basis with the exception of workbooks. Students are expected to cover and take care of them. Workbooks, which are consumable and the property of the student, should be kept neat, accurate and complete. Students should have all the required supplies as noted on the list

distributed during registration. These supplies must be maintained and replenished throughout the school year. Please be sure that your child’s name is on all of his/her materials.

Textbooks: When selecting textbooks, the Principal and faculty consider the school’s objectives, organizational structure, student needs and the financial resources of the school.

The value and quality of education at St. Mary’s School is facilitated by the dedication of our faculty. Since we are a Catholic school, Christ is celebrated here and Christian values shall be an integrated theme throughout our curriculum. The faculty assists the Principal and one another in developing and maintaining a Christian atmosphere, along with a tradition of strong academics. Loyalty, discretion and unselfishness on the part of all will facilitate the conduct of the school. Among the duties of the faculty are:

1. Teachers shall demonstrate a supportive and positive attitude in all dealings with the Faculty, students, parents, Principal and Pastor. Destructive criticism or gossip shall be scorned and consistently discouraged. BE AFFIRMATIVE.

2. Teachers shall demonstrate a strict code of professional ethics. Problems relating to the school as a whole are to be discussed during private, faculty meetings. These problems and the conclusions reached are not to be a topic of conversation later with persons not on faculty. Discussion about school personnel, students, parents or guardians shall not be held with any person who is not directly involved in the matter. Any discussion relating to these topics shall be held in private and at an appropriate time and place according to professional ethics and standards. BE FAIR, BE CONSCIENTIOUS and FOSTER POSITIVE ATTITUDES.

3. Teachers shall participate in professional studies that improve the overall school program. This depends upon each individual teacher working with the other members of the faculty and the Principal to promote the aims of the school. ENHANCE PROFESSIONAL SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE.

4. Teachers shall comply with regulations, as put forth in the Archdiocesan Policies as well as Oklahoma School Law regarding certification and non-public education.

5. Teachers are responsible for the supervision and safety of their students first and foremost. They are also required to prepare lessons that fulfill the curriculum objectives as outlined by the OKC Archdiocese.

6. Teachers are to keep accurate records of the work assigned as well as each grade earned by every student. Progress reports are sent home with the student(s) every 4-5 weeks and formal report cards are sent home every nine weeks. Parents may request grades from teachers at anytime and teachers may inform parents if concerns arise between scheduled report times. Individual academic performance may be reported to the Principal (especially those students who are performing below standards).

7. Teachers are to perform duties in a manner consistent with professional expectations (i.e. classroom management, communication methods, etc) and to maintain a professional demeanor and appearance.

8. Teachers are to adhere to local school policies, and they are to comply with the expectations and supervision of the Principal. The Principal will supervise each teacher throughout the academic year.

9. (No teacher’s child will be assigned to their parent’s class unless there are no other same grade classes available.)

10. (Any issue not covered in this handbook shall be governed by the diocesan’s rules.)

STUDENT RESPONSIBILTIES

Students are expected to work to the best of their ability, and honor their God–given abilities. Students are expected to actively participate in class and to cooperate with the teacher to provide the best atmosphere for learning.

Students are expected to obey the school’s “Code of Conduct.” It is expected that students will complete all homework assignments and turn papers in on time. When a student is absent from school, homework should be requested from the teachers. Students will be given a due date for homework. Late homework due to absences resulting from vacations or other non-excused absences may receive a late mark or a reduced grade - this is under the discretion of the individual teacher.

When a student fails to meet his/her responsibilities, or when the grades earned show a decline in performance, a student’s parents will be notified by the teacher so that steps can be taken to improve the situation immediately. If avenues used by the teacher and parents have proven to be ineffective, and no improvement is seen, then the parents will be asked to confer with the teacher, and the Principal to determine further action that may be taken to bring about improvement.

a) tutoring in one or more subject area b) referral to special services to identify special needs, c) discipline, if the problems result from behavioral issues, d) meeting with the Principal or a counselor from an outside agency, e) and/or being removed from participation in school-sponsored extracurricular activities until necessary improvement is seen.

HOMEWORK

Each teacher outlines the details for the completion of homework. As a rule, homework is not assigned over the weekend with the possible exception of long-term projects.

Each teacher arranges homework schedules and sets expectations for the students. If you feel your child spends an unwarranted amount of time on homework, his or her teacher should be consulted. Students who do not complete their in-class assignments may be required to complete that work at home in addition to daily homework. Teachers may require parents/guardian signatures on homework.

The school faculty documents incidents of misbehavior, and seeks effective means of communicating with parents. Currently, the school sends home a copy of a “notice of concern” and/or the parents receive a call from the school faculty. Faculty members are required to document and confer in a timely manner with the Principal regarding incidents involving physical altercations, adverse physical contact or any behavior that is deemed threatening to self or others (see #2 and #3 below).

The classroom teachers handle the majority of incidents of misconduct. However, when a student has committed a serious offense, or when warnings about chronic disciplinary problems have ceased to be effective, the situation is referred to the Principal and stern disciplinary measures may be necessary. In such cases, the following guidelines will be observed:

1. It is within the discretion of the faculty and the principal to determine inappropriate behavior and to offer direction and/or correction that will help students better understand their Christian responsibilities toward others and themselves.

2. Depending on the circumstances, the implementation of a disciplinary action may be immediate or the Principal may require some time to collect more information to deliberate an appropriate response to the situation. Parents will be notified as to the status of the decision.

3. School Counselor: The school may also refer students to counseling services as a means of intervention when dealing with behavioral issues. With parental consent, students and families may seek assistance on school premises from our school counselor during scheduled hours. The service is covered by Catholic Charities as long as the services are obtained by the school counselor during designated times. Any counseling received is highly confidential.

4. Physical altercations (any adverse contact between students including biting, hitting, pushing, kicking, tackling, etc.) will not be tolerated. Depending on the age of the students, very serious disciplinary action may be taken. Older students will receive swift and immediate disciplinary action that will generally include multiple detentions or a suspension. Second offenses may lead to dismissal. Discipline for physical altercations or adverse contact involving younger students may be modified, but re-occurrences can lead to suspension and/or dismissal.

5. Threats of violence made against others or self or issues of harassment (words or actions that create a hostile environment) will be taken seriously. There is no tolerance for these types of comments to be made in jest. The age of the student will be considered when determining disciplinary actions. The older the student the more severe the consequence. It is imperative that parents and guardians talk with their children about these issues to avoid difficult situations.

6. Serious misconduct may require immediate notification and a summons of the parents and/or guardians to the school office.

7. The School Principal has the authority to implement discipline, suspend and/or expel students. When a suspension is administered, the length of the suspension will be determined by the factors involved in the incidence of chronic and/or serious misconduct. Dismissal or expulsion of a student means the student is removed from the school and not allowed to return and must seek enrollment at another school.

8. Parents or guardians who wish to appeal disciplinary decisions made by the Principal may do so in writing to the Pastor, Rev. James Stafford, within ten (10) days of the Principal’s ruling.

Students are expected to strive for Christian ideals and behavior and to conduct themselves in accordance with the rules and regulations of St. Mary’s School. Students are expected to respect authority and to behave in a manner that does not interfere with the rights, privileges, and safety of others at school or school sponsored events. Student behavior cannot interfere with the rights of the teachers to teach and students to learn.

It is an expressed condition of enrollment that students behave in a manner that is consistent with Christian principles, as determined by the school in its discretion. It is also an expressed condition of enrollment that parents or guardians of a student shall conform to the standards of conduct that are consistent with the Christian principles of the school. These principles include but are not limited to the Catholic social teachings, school policies and procedures as set forth in the school handbook. Behavioral expectations for students and parents/guardians apply to all school-sponsored programs and events (i.e., extended care, athletics, field trips, etc.).

Parents/guardians are expected to cooperate with the school in disciplinary matters. Students, parents and guardians may respectfully express their concerns about school operation and its personnel. However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor driven, disruptive, threatening, hostile or divisive.

The following are some guidelines for student behavior that is in accordance with the “Code of Conduct.” This list is not all-inclusive but provides a framework for understanding behavioral expectations.

7. Students are expected to demonstrate ethical behavior in regards to academic, social and extra-curricular programs (i.e., display good sportsmanship, no cheating, be honest and fair, treat others as you want to be treated.).

8. Do not be in possession of dangerous objects, or any potential weapons at school or school-sponsored events. This will result in grave disciplinary action and may involve law enforcement.

9. Do not be in possession, transmission or use of alcohol or illegal drugs of any kind (including possible inhalants) any time at school or school-sponsored events. This will result in grave disciplinary actions by the school and may involve law enforcement.

10. Laser pens, electronic games, or other devices deemed distracting to the learning environment are not to be brought to school.

11. Physical Altercations - Fighting or any adverse physical contact between students including biting, hitting, pushing, kicking, tackling, etc., will not be tolerated. Stern disciplinary action will be taken.

12. Threats and/or Harassment -Threats or acts of intimidation or violence directed towards others or self, made by gestures, written or verbal expression; or issues of harassment including words or actions by any student, faculty or parent/guardian, that creates a hostile environment will not be tolerated at St. Mary’s School. There will be no tolerance for any verbal or non-verbal expression that places a person in reasonable fear for safety of person or property. There is no tolerance for harassing comments or gestures based on race, religion, gender, age, economic status, disability, physical factors or any other personal characteristics. Furthermore, there will be no tolerance for comments or actions as described herein to be made in jest. All will be taken very seriously and dealt with in the strictest manner.

13. Students shall not leave the playground area without teacher supervision. If a ball or any object leaves school property, students must ask for assistance in retrieving the item.

14. Obey dismissal procedures. Students may not stay in the building or on the grounds without teacher supervision (See Arrival/Dismissal).

GRADING SCALE AND REPORTS

Progress reports are sent home with the student(s) every 4-5 weeks and formal report cards are sent home every nine weeks, at the conclusion of the quarter.

HONOR ROLL

RRequirements: 1. Principal’s “A” Honor Roll includes students with A’s in all of the following subjects: Reading, Math, English, Spelling, Religion, Science and Social Studies.

Student records will be released to a requesting school so long as all fees and tuition accounts are paid in full. When requests for official records are made to the school office, the office will make every effort to mail the official records as soon as possible. Official records contain the raised seal and will not be given to parents to hand carry. Parents can make a request for a copy of official records at any time, however, the school office is allowed a 24-hour period to honor the request (this depends on office activities at the time of request).

OFFICIAL RECORDS FOR NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS

According to Oklahoma School Law, non-custodial parents are entitled to request and obtain copies of their child’s official school records. The only time a non-custodial parent can be refused a copy of records is when parental rights have been revoked by court decree. A copy of custodial provisions of the divorce decree shall be provided to the school office to be placed in the student’s file.

If a student has completed his/her grade level work satisfactorily, and met criterion established by school law and policies, he/she will be promoted. If the required work for that grade is not completed, he/she may be promoted conditionally to the following grade or retained in his/her present grade. Students may be promoted conditionally if retention in the present grade would not benefit the student. The ideal time to be retained (if it is deemed necessary for a student) is when he/she is in the primary grades (K-2^nd). Factors such as social, emotional, physical and mental growth shall be taken into consideration.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Scheduled conferences for all parents are usually held twice a year. Parents are notified as to when they will take place. This gives parents the opportunity to speak individually to all the teachers about the progress and needs of their child.

We encourage open communication between the parents, guardians and teachers. Conferences may be scheduled with teachers at anytime during the year. The teachers are to be contacted through the school office and a scheduled meeting time should be arranged.

Teachers are not able to confer with parents or guardians during teaching time. Meetings must be held during planning periods, before or after school. Rare exceptions to this policy can only be arranged with the approval of the Principal (classroom coverage must be arranged). If further consultation is deemed necessary, parents and teachers may set up a time to meet with the Principal.

DAILY SCHEDULE

School hours are Monday through Friday 8:45 A.M. – 3:25 P.M. Students will convene at 9:15 A.M. on Wednesdays for weekly school mass. For those students who need to eat breakfast at school, breakfast is served from 8:30 A.M. until 8:45 A.M.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Before school care is available beginning at 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. – excluding days in which a school delay is called due to inclement weather. After school care is available from 3:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. on regularly scheduled days. Parents/guardians are required to fill out the registration form for this program if their children will be attending before or after school care. The fees are explained on the registration form. Parents/guardians are responsible for these fees when the service is utilized as scheduled or when students are required to go to after school care if they are not picked up in a timely manner (see pg. 20).

GYM USE DURING BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE HOURS

The gym is the designated area for the Before and After School Care Program. Gym use for activities other than BASC shall occur after 4:30 p.m. Exceptions to this policy shall be approved by the BASC Director. Requests for use of the gym facilities during BASC hours must be submitted in writing to the BASC Director no less than 10 days prior to the event.

ARRIVAL PROCEDURES

The school assumes responsibility for the supervision of the students beginning at 8:30 a.m. on regularly scheduled school days. Students in grades first through seventh are to assemble in the gym beginning at 8:30 a.m. Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten shall be escorted to their supervised classroom by a parent or guardian. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CHILD IN AN UNSUPERVISED CLASSROOM. If a student is on school grounds before 8:30 A.M., that student must go to the before/after school care program and parents will be billed the appropriate fees – NO EXCEPTIONS.

Student(s) must report to the office when tardy in order to receive a tardy slip that allows them to be admitted into the classroom. If the tardy is significant, more than 30 minutes, then the parent/guardian is required to document the late arrival in the student sign-in book. Any arrival after the bell rings at 8:45 a.m. is recorded as a tardy and ten tardies accumulate to an absence.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

All students will dismiss daily at 3:25 P.M. Students will only be released to a parent, guardian or other designee, as listed on the authorization card. Any person who is not familiar to the teacher will be required to check in the office for verification before students are released. The office must be notified if a person other than those listed on the authorization card will be picking up a student. It is the parent’s responsibility to stop by the office to update student contact cards.

By request of the faculty, ALL STUDENTS, PRE-K THROUGH EIGHTH, shall be released to an authorized person from the classrooms at dismissal. If a parent or guardian wishes to allow students to leave on their own volition, written permission must be given to the school office, the school will be released of responsibility, and the safety of the child cannot be assured.

Please note that any student not picked up by an authorized person by the second afternoon bell will be taken to the after school care area by the teacher. Any older students who have been permitted to dismiss from the classrooms on their own volition will not be allowed to “wander” the halls. Problems have surfaced in the past regarding this issues. Older students not picked up shortly after the afternoon bell rings, or older students not walking to a destination off school grounds will be required to go to the after school care area. Parents or guardians will be charged for supervision time.

Parents are not to pick up students from the classroom before the bell rings at 3:25 p.m., unless the students have been signed out in the office. Signing students out early is recorded as an afternoon tardy and ten tardies accumulate to an absence.

Parents/guardians are required to maintain silence in the halls while waiting to pick up their children at dismissal time. If parents choose to talk with others parents while waiting for the bell, they should gather outside the building.

Students that are participating in a sport that holds practices on school grounds after school may be picked up by coaches under the following conditions:

a) The coach must have completed the full volunteer application and background process and been assigned by the Athletic Director/Volunteer Coordinator/Principal as a volunteer in that capacity.

b) Once classes dismiss for the day, coaches may pick up the students collectively, from the gym (after school care area).

d) Once the coach picks up children, the coach is responsible for the safety and well-being of the student(s).

ATTENDANCE AND EXCUSES

All Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City are required to comply with the State of Oklahoma compulsory attendance regulations. The school is required to keep an accurate record of daily attendance, absentees and tardiness as a part of its official records. These records may be required by certain state codes and may be subpoenaed by court order. Therefore, they must be accurate.

When a student has a late arrival, the student shall report to the office to receive an admit pass. The pass indicates to the teacher that the student has checked in and the attendance record will be changed from an absence to a tardy. This allows us to record individual attendance and to have an accurate student count in case of a school emergency (i.e., fire, evacuations, etc.).

Please notify the office before 9:00 A.M. if your child will be absent. An absence, morning or afternoon, of more than 2 hours is recorded as a ½-day absence. If a child has more than ten absences within a school year then the child is in violation of the compulsory attendance law. Parents/guardians are responsible for student attendance.

There will be no distinction made between excused and unexcused absences. If the student is not in attendance, regardless of the reason, the attendance records will show an absence. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to provide the school with documentation as to why a student is not in attendance. (Documentation may help to avoid truancy issues for those students who have more than ten absences.) Family vacations count towards absences.

MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

Prescription medication should be contained in a prescription vial with a label that correctly states the name and address of the pharmacy, date of filling, name of patient, name of doctor, prescription number and directions for the administration of medication. The school will not dispense any medication without written permission of the parent/guardian. Medication forms are in the school office and must be completed by the parent or guardian in order for the school to dispense medication. All prescription medications are kept in the school office. Since asthma can be an emergency, asthma inhalers should be accessible to the student and designated personnel at all times. (INHALERS SHOULD BE AT SCHOOL WITH THE CHILD)

School personnel will only administer non-prescribed medications with parental consent. Parents or guardians are welcome to administer non-prescription, as well as prescription medicines by reporting to the school office. The office personnel will then contact the teacher and the student will report to the office.

Please do not send sick students or students with the following symptoms to school:

1. Fever of 100 degrees or more. Child must be fever free for a full 24 hours without medication before they can return to school.

If your child is too ill to remain at school, or if he/she has been injured, the parents will be contacted. This means WE MUST KNOW WHERE YOU CAN BE REACHED AT ALL TIMES. Please report changes of phone numbers or addresses to the school office. All students should have an emergency guardian listed on the enrollment card.

DISEASE AND LICE CONTROL

Oklahoma School Law states: “Any child afflicted with a contagious disease or head lice may be prohibited from attending a public, private or parochial school until such time as he/she is free from contagious disease or head lice.” (Sec. 703-A)

Persons with communicable diseases and/or chronic infections will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with health guidelines. Sanitary practices and good hygiene are to be practiced by all faculty, staff and volunteers and will be emphasized to all our students.

Parents and guests are always welcome at St. Mary’s School. To promote a safe and controlled environment for our students, all visitors, including parents participating in any volunteer activity, are required to report to the school office to sign in. A visitor’s badge will be issued. Badges must be worn during the visit so faculty and staff can identify that you have checked in at the office.

In the event of an emergency affecting the regular opening of school (inclement weather, gas leaks, water problems, etc.), notice will be given on local radio and television stations and/or parents may be called.

In case of inclement weather, we will usually list our closing or delay when Lawton Public Schools lists their closings. However, St. Mary’s may list closings or delays at different times and will be announced by television (KSWO “7”) and local F.M. radio stations. Please do not call the Pastor, Principal, faculty or staff at home.

Before school care will not be provided on days in which a school delay has been called. Breakfast will not be served on days in which delays have been called.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

During the school day, if severe weather is predicted and warnings have been issued (I.E. Tornadoes, flash floods, thunderstorms, etc.), emergency procedures are activated. Teachers will follow the specified emergency procedures. In the case of tornadoes, children will be taken to their assigned shelter areas. Special emergency procedures are in place for situations that include things such as bomb threats, acts of violence or school intruders. If parents or guardians would like to review emergency procedures, they are available in the Principal’s office.

Emergency contact records are kept on file in the school office. Parents and guardians must keep the information current at all times. This includes phone numbers, emergency contacts – both name and numbers, and authorized individuals for pickup of students.

COMPUTER USAGE

Each student in Pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, have computer class as a part of their weekly curriculum. Students also have access to computers in the resource center, during library time. The school’s computers are networked and Internet capable. A filtering software program has been installed to protect against access to illicit WebPages and indecent material. We have taken appropriate steps to avoid problems with Internet usage.

Student use of the computers will still be carefully monitored and any attempt by a student to tamper with the filtering software and/or any purposeful attempt to search out illicit sites will be cause for immediate penalty. Student computer use is a privilege not a right and loss of computer access will result when the rules are not followed. This strict guideline may also affect the student’s ability to complete the computer curriculum, which could result in failure of the coursework. Improper use of computers will also result in stern discipline measures. The signature sheet that accompanies this handbook requires a student and parent signature under the area of computer usage.

LIBRARY/MULTI-MEDIA

The library provides a wealth of reading and reference materials for students. Some of the library books are on loan from the government under Title VI of the Federal Aid to Education Act.

The following rules will enable all to enjoy the maximum benefits of the school library:

1. Parents should encourage their children to read and accept responsibility of caring for books.

2. Silence in the library will be maintained, except when help is needed from the Librarian.

4. Reference books are available for research work in the library but may not be taken home.

6. Report cards and official records will be retained until overdue books are returned. The student pays for lost and damaged books.

7. Gifts to the library follow the same evaluation and selection policy required by the State as do the regular acquisition of library books and AR materials.

8. The Accelerated Reader Program has been integrated into the curriculum in grades 1^st – 8th.

A federally supported lunch is offered to students who wish to purchase it. Children who bring their lunch from home may purchase milk separately. Lunches are free or available at a reduced rate for those who qualify and such application forms are available through the office. Information is confidential.

3. Students should attempt to eat the entire portion of the foods chosen and are discouraged from sharing food.

4. Students are to finish their meals in the cafeteria. No food is allowed on the playground.

5. Students will display good manners in the cafeteria and help keep the area clean and sanitary.

Parents should advise the Cafeteria Manager in writing if a child is allergic to certain foods. Copies of this note will be placed in the child’s file.

"In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

"To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer."

COLLECTION OF MONEY

Any money sent to the school office to pay school fees shall be placed in a sealed envelope with the child’s name, grade, the amount enclosed and the purpose. The student will give the envelope to the homeroom teacher, and it will be send to the office with the morning attendance cards and lunch fees. Money may not be left in desks or any other place in the classroom. Students should never carry large amounts of money.

Procedures for money collections during fundraisers will be explained in writing by the coordinators of the fundraiser. Teachers, parents and students shall request approval to conduct fund-raising events that are not a part of the prescheduled, yearly school fundraisers. Requests for special fundraisers must be approved by the Principal and/or the Pastor.

HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

The purpose of the Home School Association (H.S.A.) of St. Mary’s School is to cooperate with the Pastor, the Principal and the teachers in order to enhance the Catholic education of our children. The H.S.A. will assist in programs for the health, safety and welfare of the children throughout the school year and may function as a limited fund-raising organization. General meetings are held about four times a year. By-laws are outlined in Appendix “A.”

ROOM PARENTS

Each year the H.S.A. asks for volunteer room parents to sign up to help the classroom teachers. Room parents are assigned to assist the teachers in ways deemed necessary by the individual room teacher. The room parents should make arrangements with the teacher early in the year regarding services needed in a particular classroom. All room parents are required to complete the full background screening process before having regular contact with the students.