St. Matthew Cathedral School
Handbook for Students and Parents
2018 - 2019
1015 E. Dayton Street South Bend, IN 46613 (574) 289-4535 www.stmatthewcathedralschool.com
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
We, as Catholic educators, participate in the redemptive mission of the Catholic Church by providing faith formation for our students and by assisting them to integrate faith and values into their contemporary life experiences.
We recognize that each of us is created in God’s image as a unique mosaic of talent and potential. Called through Baptism and incorporated into Christ’s life, we embark on a journey of bringing God’s love to the world. Through the ministry of education, we develop the lifelong gift of discovering who we are in relationship to God, self, others, and the world.
We, as Catholic educators, embrace all that is good, true, and beautiful in human culture. We nurture faith, that opening of the heart and mind to God’s word, and elicit each student’s response to Christ by providing opportunities for total formation. We strive to integrate our students’ spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social lives.
Our school is a community of faith with the Eucharist as the life-giving center. Through the sacramental life and liturgical year, love of God and neighbor becomes a focal reality, transforming attitudes, actions, and relationships. We continually challenge our students and one another to participate in Christ’s victory over sin and evil with lives of love and compassion. Through witnessing our faith and working together, we call our students to recognize the love of God in their midst and to contribute their talents in service to others.
MISSION STATEMENT
Saint Matthew Cathedral School will provide a Catholic education that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, moral, social, and physical development of all students.
VISION STATEMENT
Saint Matthew Cathedral School is an educational community where learning is continuous, applicable, and adaptive to the needs of all learners as they prepare for future educational endeavors.
CORE BELIEFS
Belief in providing a Catholic Education that focuses on the spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth and development of all learners.
Belief in the Catholic faith which is fostered through prayer, liturgy, and community service.
Belief in providing a safe, secure, nurturing environment that supports the changing needs of an increasingly diverse student population.
Belief in building a nurturing learning environment that fosters shared responsibilities and mutual respect among all stakeholders.
Belief in providing facilities and technologies that enhance student learning.
Belief in aligning curricular areas from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade with the Indiana Academic Standards and instructional goals as outlined in each grade level's academic standards.
Belief in utilizing a continuous improvement model for curriculum development that facilitates a timely response to emerging student assessment data patterns in local and state standardized assessments.
2 SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP
Enrollment in St. Matthew Cathedral School is subject to the approval of the diocese and the St. Matthew Cathedral School administration. In order to foster an environment that promotes the optimum educational and spiritual development of the student, every parent/guardian of each student is expected to act as a cooperative partner with the diocese and school and to comply with all policies and rules that are established by the diocese and school. The school retains the right to rescind approval for the enrollment of any student if it determines that there is a lack of cooperation on the part of the student’s parent/guardian and, as a result, the withdrawal of the student would be in the best interest of the student, the school, other students attending the school, or the fulfillment of the school’s mission.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Parents will establish and maintain, in the home, a positive attitude toward education, the school, the administration, and the teachers and staff.
Parents will show an interest in their child’s schoolwork and progress through regular contact and communication with the school.
Parents will attend the annual Back-to-School Night conducted by the homeroom teachers in August.
Parents will see that their child is dressed in the proper school uniform.
Parents will ensure their child’s daily attendance.
Parents will keep their child out of school when he/she is obviously ill.
Parents will report and explain to the school any absence by 8:30 a.m.
Parents will inform the school of any physical or psychological condition or circumstances which may affect their child’s ability to learn, to attend school regularly, or to participate in school activities.
Parents will pay all fees and tuition as they come due.
TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES
Teachers will serve as Christian role models.
Teachers will prepare lesson plans that will meet the needs of the students.
Teachers will maintain orderly classrooms.
Teachers will help students become self-disciplined and responsible persons.
Teachers will maintain needed contact with parents to keep them appraised of their child’s progress.
3 ADMINISTRATION RESPONSIBILITIES
Administration will serve as Christian role models.
Administration will seek to meet the needs of students by serving the teachers, staff, and parents to the best of their ability and with right intention.
Administration will help students become self-disciplined and responsible persons.
Administration will maintain needed contact with parents to keep them apprised of their child’s progress.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Students will show respect for all teachers, staff members, the principal, the pastor, the associate pastors, parent volunteers, and parents on the grounds during drop-off & pick-up, as well as each other. Failure to do so will result in consequences up to removal from St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Students will show respect for school property and the property of others.
Students will be on time for school at 8:10 a.m. and for all classes throughout the day. Excessive truancy will have consequences up to removal from St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Students will come to class prepared with assignments, proper books, paper, pens, etc. Excessive failure to do so will have consequences up to removal from St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Students will keep all school-owned books covered; a fine will be assessed for lost or damaged textbooks. Fines will be required to be paid prior to further attendance at St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Students will keep desks and lockers in good order. Lockers may not be locked unless approved by administration. School authorities may inspect contents in student lockers and/or desks at any time.
Students will use assigned play areas during recess in accordance with established playground rules. Permission to leave the grounds is to be obtained from the playground supervisor. Toys or play items are to be used only during recess when permitted, or they may be confiscated. Electronic games, iPods, CD players, cell phones, or other devices should not be used during school hours and we recommend they not be brought to school.
If cell phones are brought to school they must be turned off and given to the homeroom teacher at the beginning of the school day. Use of the cell phone during the school day without adult permission will result in immediate confiscation. Additional offenses will result in loss of privileges or other consequences given from the administration. When the cell phone or other electronic device is confiscated, administration holds the right to insist that the parent retrieve it in person. Continuous and intentional disregard to follow administration requests will have consequences up to removal from St. Matthew Cathedral School.
4 ADMISSION
Admission Procedure
In the spring of each school year the registration of students for St. Matthew Cathedral School will take place for the following school year.
Students must meet requirements of age for all grade levels and meet educational requirements when entering grades one through eight. A birth certificate is required at the time of initial registration. A placement test will be administered to students entering grades 2 – 8.
All new students will be admitted to the school on a probationary status that will continue for one year. If a problem should arise, a conference will be held with parents, teacher, and administrator. Depending on the severity of the problem a behavioral or academic plan will be devised or the student may be asked to leave St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Students will be accepted in the following order:
First: Returning students who meet all of the following requirements:
1) Payment of registration fee.
2) Payment of all fees - registration fee, tuition, etc. incurred during the previous year.
Second: Students of Faculty
Third: Brothers and sisters of students already enrolled in the following order:
1) Students of Active Parishioners.
2) Catholic students from other parishes.
3) Non-Catholic students.
Fourth: New students
1) Students of Active Parishioners.
2) Catholic students from other parishes.
3) Non-Catholic students.
In the event that more students enroll than there is space available, a lottery for all new Choice Scholarship students for the particular grade will be held and then a waiting list will be established and children will be accepted according to the above guidelines provided that the registrations were received by the due date.
Registrations must be renewed annually at the time of spring registration, including persons who are on the waiting list.
The principal, in consultation with the pastor, reserves the right to depart from the above guidelines if circumstances so warrant. A positive partnership between school and home is a necessary condition for a child’s all around development including spiritual, intellectual, moral, social, and physical. Let us work as a team and remain in good communication in order to best serve your child.
5 Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4010
Students
Enrollment
I. School Admission Policy
Diocesan schools shall comply with state laws and regulations regarding school enrollment and attendance to the extent possible, as consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church and diocesan policy.
II. Nondiscrimination Policy
Diocesan schools shall follow and promote an open enrollment policy, accepting students without regard to color, race, gender, or national origin, and reasonably accommodate the disabled in its educational programs.
III. School Entrance Requirements
A child can be enrolled only by a person having the legal custody of the child. A certified copy of the student’s birth certificate or a baptismal certificate shall be required for original entrance at all grade levels. Proof of legal custody may also be required in cases where a child does not reside with both natural parents.
If these required documents are not provided to the school within thirty (30) days of the student’s enrollment or appear to be inaccurate or fraudulent, the school shall notify the Indiana Clearing House for Information of Missing Children (See P4030) and will cooperate with local authorities if the child has been reported missing.
The custodian parent or legal guardian shall provide the name and address of the school the student last attended, if any. The school shall request records from the last school the student attended within fourteen (14) days.
Written proof that the child meets state and county health requirements (immunization record) for enrollment shall be required.
IV. Pre-K students should be four years old on or before August 1. Children should be potty trained.
V. Kindergarten Age Requirement
Schools shall follow state law guidelines in enrolling Kindergarten students.
A child entering kindergarten must be five years old on or before August 1, or date set by the state.
A school may choose to administer formal or informal assessment for determining proper placement in kindergarten.
NOTE: A child coming into a diocesan school from an out-of-state kindergarten program or an in-state kindergarten program and who does not meet the Indiana state age-eligibility requirement should be admitted to a kindergarten program, unless it can be determined that enrollment in such a program was intended to circumvent Indiana law.
VI. Grade Entrance Requirements
Students enrolling in a diocesan school after successfully completing kindergarten or successive year in another accredited school that has different age requirements shall be allowed to continue in school without interruption because of chronological age.
6 VII. Children with Exceptional Educational Needs
Children with exceptional educational needs requiring special class placement are accepted if their needs can be reasonably accommodated in the school. Initial enrollment should be on a tentative basis with the understanding that in the event the exceptional needs of the child cannot be reasonably accommodated by the school, the custodial parents or guardians will agree to enroll their child in another school system which can accommodate the special needs of exceptional children.
Ordinarily when a diocesan school cannot reasonably accommodate the exceptional needs of a child, a recommendation for special class placement should be made to the custodial parent or guardian by the principal, after consultation with the child’s teacher(s). This recommendation can be for either special class placement within the Catholic school or referral to a public school for evaluation or placement. If the custodial parent or guardian does not accept the school’s recommendation, it is expected that he/she will place the decision in writing. In some instances the custodial parent or guardian will be required to withdraw the child if the child’s continued presence, in the opinion of school personnel, would pose an undue hardship on the operation of the school or poses a threat of harm to the student, other students, or school personnel.
VIII. Students or prospective Students with Diseases
Catholic schools shall comply with all applicable state law and all Board of Health policies regarding school enrollment and attendance in relation to a student or prospective student having a communicable disease.
Prospective students who otherwise meet all entrance requirements may not be denied admission solely on the basis of a diagnosis of a disease unless required by applicable state law or board of health policy; similarly, students may not be excluded merely on the basis of a diagnosis of a disease.
However, as with any prospective student who is diagnosed as having or is suspected of having a communicable disease, a child with a communicable disease may be excluded, if after an individualized assessment of the child’s condition, in accordance with the school’s communicable disease policy/procedure, it is determined that the child’s presence in the classroom would expose others to significant health and safety risks.
Upon being informed that a child is diagnosed as having or is suspected as having a communicable disease, a review team consisting of the student; his/her parent/guardian; his/her physician; a physician representing the school, parish, or diocese; and school or parish administrators will be established to determine whether the child’s admission or continued presence in school would expose others to significant health and safety risks. In making its determination the review team will conduct an assessment of the child’s individual condition. The review team’s inquiry will include findings of fact, based on reasonable medical judgments given the state of medical knowledge about:
A. the nature of the risk - how the disease is transmitted; B. the duration of the risk - how long the carrier is infectious; C. the severity of the risk - the potential harm to third parties; D. the probabilities the disease will be transmitted and will cause varying degrees of harm; and E. whether a reasonable accommodation exists and/or is required.
The review must also take into consideration the scope of the problem, education-related issues, and the student’s right to confidentiality. The recommendation of the review team and the decision of the parish and school administrators shall be considered confidential and will be submitted for review only to the Superintendent of Schools, Vicar of Education, and diocesan attorney.
In the event it is determined that a child is unable to attend regular Catholic day school, the parish, school, and diocese will assist the parent or guardian in locating alternative educational service and obtaining religious and catechetical instruction.
7 P4020 Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
Students - Student Transfers Accepting Transfers
Once the academic year has begun, students shall be discouraged from transferring to another diocesan school except in the case of a change of residence.
The principal of the school from which the student expects to transfer should be notified immediately once the request is made. It is expected that the principals involved can arrive at a decision agreeable to both schools regarding the requested transfer. All unpaid bills at the original school must be satisfied before an official transcript may be sent to the receiving school.
In the case of high school students, all rules and regulations of the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) regarding athletic eligibility shall be strictly followed.
Accepting Expelled or Suspended Transfer Students
A principal may consider accepting a student from another school who has been expelled, suspended, or has been a party to a major discipline problem as defined by the former school or interpreted by applicable school operating policies and/or parent/student handbook or appropriate state law only after a full and complete explanation of the facts pertinent to an individual case has been evaluated. This provision will not be followed when a student has been expelled for violating the “Gun Free” diocesan policy, which is required by state and federal law (Policy 4560).
Discovery that any information provided to the receiving school was falsified will automatically be grounds to refuse the transfer request or immediately dismiss the child from the school if the discovery occurs after the child has been enrolled.
All unpaid bills at the original school must be satisfied before an official transcript may be sent to the receiving school. The final decision of accepting a transfer student rests in the discretion of the principal (in consultation with the pastor in the case of elementary school).
P4030 Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
Students - Reporting Missing Children
Each school shall require the parent/legal guardian of a student enrolling in a diocesan school in any grade to provide the name and address of the school the student last attended, and a certified copy of the student’s birth certificate or other reliable proof of birth date. If, upon application for enrollment in a diocesan school in accordance with 4010, no birth certificate or other reliable proof of birth date, is provided or if such birth certificate or other proof is not provided to the school within 30 days from the initial enrollment date of the student, or if it appears that fraudulent or inaccurate information has been submitted, the school must notify the Indiana Clearinghouse for Information on Missing Children Hotline (Phone: (800 831-8953)).
If any law enforcement agency reports to a school that a present or former student is missing, the school must attach a notice to the student’s records, which states that the child has been reported missing, if the child is under the age of thirteen (13). This notice remains attached to the student’s record until such time as the school is notified by any law enforcement agency that the child has been found.
A school must promptly send school records (health forms and birth certificate) to any requesting school unless notice has been attached to the students record that the child has been reported missing. If the records of a missing child are requested, the school must obtain the name, address, and telephone number of the person making the request and the reason for the request, and immediately report this information to the Indiana Clearing House for Information on Missing Children Hotline. The records cannot be released without the authorization of the Hotline.
8 ACADEMICS
Religious
All students attending St. Matthew Cathedral School must conduct themselves in a fashion that adheres to the teachings of the Catholic Church. They will also attend religion classes given at their grade levels, as well as Mass and religious services deemed appropriate by the pastor, principal, and/or teacher. Students are taught, through our religion program, the essential truths of the Catholic faith and are urged to cultivate a habit of daily prayer, to do works of charity, and to be faithful in receiving the sacraments of the church, particularly by attendance at Sunday Mass.
The work of the school is greatly compromised if parents do not make an effort to practice their Catholic faith at home. The time that we take to teach the children the truths of the Catholic faith and to cultivate good habits is negated if parents do not practice what is taught at school. Most especially, the work of the school is greatly compromised if Catholic parents do not bring their child/children to Sunday Mass every Sunday.
God’s Gift of Human Sexuality
The Catholic school upholds and supports God’s plan for sexual relations by promoting chastity and a respect for human life. Sexual union is intended by God to express the complete gift of self that a man and a woman make to one another in marriage, a mutual gift, which opens them to the gift of a child. Therefore, all students are expected to live a chaste lifestyle and to abstain from sexual relations.
In conformity with pastoral guidelines from the Holy See on human love and sexuality, the moral and spiritual aspects of human love and sexuality will be presented to students within the school’s curriculum. Parents, as the primary educators of their children, are normally expected to address the more intimate details of human love and sexuality at home with their child. However, if parents need assistance in this area, they may delegate this personalized dialogue with their child to a teacher, counselor, or some other trustworthy person. The diocesan Office of Family Life, in conjunction with the parishes and schools, will assist parents of elementary students in carrying out this responsibility of family life education.
On the high school level, students will attend a one-semester course focusing on reverence for life in their freshman or sophomore years.
Accreditation
St. Matthew Cathedral School is an accredited school by the State of Indiana and AdvancED Accreditation. All teachers of subjects required by the State are licensed.
Curriculum
All students attending St. Matthew Cathedral School will attend and participate in all classes required by the State of Indiana and the Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend.
St. Matthew Cathedral School provides for a well-rounded curriculum in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the State of Indiana and the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend. The following subjects are required of all students attending St. Matthew Cathedral School:
Religion Language Arts Science Literature Mathematics Social Studies Library Music Art Physical Education Health Spanish
9 Learning Disabilities St. Matthew Cathedral School, in cooperation with the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend and with the South Bend Community School Corporation, provides testing for learning disabilities, speech problems, and psychological problems. The school cooperates with South Bend Community School Corporation to provide the best care possible to our students. We seek to serve our students on Individual Service Plans to the best of our ability as a private school. Special Education teachers are on staff to offer services to students.
Homework Policy Homework is an important resource in helping students to learn. It is for the purpose of enforcing, extending, enriching, and/or strengthening skills. Homework will be given on a regular basis in accordance with the skills and needs of each student’s grade level.
Homework may include: 1. Finish work not completed in class 2. Do make-up work after an absence 3. Study for tests, quizzes, etc. 4. Practice oral reading 5. Reading books for Reading Counts 6. Leisure reading 7. Study of spelling words 8. Drill on math facts 9. Application of math concepts currently or previously presented, especially problem solving skills 10. Completion of workbook pages, chapter exercises, etc. 11. Note-taking on assigned material 12. Work on special projects 13. Memorization 14. Reread science, social studies, and other assignments
The Student’s Role Each student has a responsibility to develop good work and study habits. The student should: 1. Understand the assignment before leaving class. 2. Record assignments in assignment book. 3. Take home any materials and information needed to complete the assignment. 4. Use time wisely. Long-term assignments should be planned and not completed all at once. 5. Set aside a special time and a special place free from distractions. 6. Check carefully the completed assignments. 7. Return all work completed to the teacher by the date requested. 8. Assume responsibility for obtaining and completing any work missed during an illness or excused absences (i.e., band, serving, appointments, etc.).
The Parents’ Role Cooperation by parents is a necessary factor in meaningful homework experiences. Parents can encourage their children by showing interest and exhibiting helpful attitudes toward homework. Parents should: 1. Provide a quiet, well-lighted place for their son or daughter to study. 2. Establish a regular “homework time” in the home and have a special place free from excessive noise and other distractions where the child can work. 3. Encourage and support their child’s efforts; be available for questions, but remember . . . homework is the child’s responsibility, not the parents’. 4. Communicate with the teacher whenever their child has consistent difficulty with homework assignments. 5. Encourage their child to seek help and ask questions when in doubt about an assignment. 6. Help students organize adequate time for homework completion.
10 The Teacher’s Role The teachers’ responsibilities in implementing homework policies are to: 1. Be sure students understand and know how to complete assignments successfully. Opportunity should be provided during regular class time to monitor the students’ understanding of the assignment. 2. Flexibility is important when teachers become aware of student homework overload. 3. Avoid routine assignments over weekends, holidays, and vacation time. 4. Provide specific written explanation of long-range assignments so that the requirements and expectations are clearly understood by the students and their parents. 5. No teacher should fail to assign needed homework when, in his or her judgment, homework is required to accomplish academic goals and objectives. 6. Homework will be considered as a part of the total learning process and will be monitored (specific feedback, graded, etc.) in light of lesson objective to be accomplished.
Mid-Quarter Reports
Mid-quarter reports will be issued midway into each quarter.
Report Cards
Report cards will be issued quarterly. They will be sent home via the child and must be signed by parents and returned the next day.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher Conferences will be scheduled at least once during the school year. Parents or teachers may request conferences at any time as the need arises. If you are unable to attend the parent-teacher conference day please reach out to the teacher for another time.
Grading Scale Meaning of Letter Grades: A Superior 90 to 100 B Above Average 80 to 89 C Average 70 to 79 D Below Average 60 to 69 F Failure 59 and below
Honors Honors will be based on overall GPA High Honors for students with a GPA of 3.5 or above in core classes & no Fs in any class Honors for students with a GPA of 3.0 or above in core classes and no Fs in any class
A+ 97-100% 4.00 A 93-96% 4.00 A- 90-92% 3.67 B+ 87-89% 3.33 B 83-86% 3.00 B- 80-82% 2.67 C+ 77-79% 2.33 C 73-76% 2.00 C- 70-72% 1.67 D+ 67-69% 1.33 D 63-66% 1.00 D- 60-62% 0.67 F 0-59% 0.00
11 Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4120
Students Reporting Curriculum and Grading Modification A “Modified for Ability” label will be affixed to the front of the permanent record of any student receiving “Frequent Curriculum and Grading Modifications.” (FCGM) No modification will be indicated on the report card. A letter may be sent in advance of the report card reminding the parent/guardian of the agreed upon modification.
An FCGM Permanent Record Form should be completed by the homeroom teacher each year. This will be kept in the student’s permanent record file and with the appropriate notation indicated on the permanent record.
Athletic/Extra-curricular Policy
The following guidelines have been developed to assist students and their parents in recognizing and accepting academic work as the primary focus of St. Matthew Cathedral School.
To participate in any school-sponsored sports program or extra-curricular activity a student must have an acceptable passing grade in all subject areas, maintain a 2.0, and have acceptable conduct and effort in school. Ongoing review of grades will be done. Students must maintain the student-athlete expectations. If a child is placed on athletic probation he/she is not allowed to practice or play for the team during that probationary period.
Students who are diagnosed with special needs or have significant extenuating circumstances may be exempt from aspects of the above scholastic requirements. Such requests will be reviewed and then approved or denied by the principal after consideration with the student’s teacher(s). A student who is unsatisfactory in conduct or effort and/or is not turning in homework will greatly diminish any opportunity for an exemption. Decisions regarding exemptions are solely the final decision of administration following consultation with teachers.
Promotion and Retention Policy
A student may be promoted, assigned, or retained for a variety of reasons determined by the principal, teachers, and parents.
A student should have a cumulative average of a passing grade in four of the six core subjects or he/she will not be promoted. Core subjects are religion, math, language arts, reading/literature, social studies, and science. If the student fails two of these subjects, he/she will be assigned to the next grade.
A student may be retained for the following reasons: 1.) Kindergartener through grade 2 if the student does not have a satisfactory reading average; 2.) Grades 3 through 8 if the student has an average of F in two core subjects; and 3.) Both the parents and teachers/administration agree that retention may be the best decision for a struggling student.
Students not passing the Indiana 3rd Grade IREAD test will receive reading remediation for the remainder of 3rd grade. The student MUST retake the IREAD test during the summer at a specified time agreed upon by administration and parents; failure to take this state required test would result in dismissal from our school. If the child does not pass the summer IREAD test then discussion will occur regarding the student’s overall ability to move to 4th grade at St. Matthew Cathedral School. We seek to assist in remediation as best as we can to bring that student to grade level and be successful as a student at St. Matthew Cathedral School.
12 Access to Official Student Records (P4170)
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
Students - Access to Official Student Records
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) of 1975, any natural parent, guardian, or individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or guardian of a student has the right “to inspect and review” his/her minor students educational records, unless the school has been provided with a court order, State statute, or legally-binding documents that specifically precludes such inspection and review. In addition, a student who has reached eighteen (18) years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education will have all access rights that his/her parent or guardian would have had prior to that time. Absent such court order or legally- binding document, a non-custodial parent has the same right to inspect and review as a custodial parent.
I. All schools shall follow the diocesan policy and procedure regarding requests for access to student educational records, in accordance with FERPA.
A. A “parent” means a parent of a student and includes a natural parent, guardian, or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or a guardian.
B. An “eligible student” means a student who has reached eighteen (18) years of age or is attending an institute of post-secondary education.
C. All student records are confidential and may be accessed only by those authorized to do so. (See J.) This includes health records, psychometric testing, and student academic records but does not include counseling reports/files protected by statute.
D. Personally identifiable information is in all student records. Personally identifiable information will not be released without the prior written consent of the parent or eligible student unless FERPA allows its release without consent, such release is in compliance with a judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena with prior notice to parents and students, or, if the information released is “directory information.” Directory information includes:
Name Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Address Weight and height of athletic team members Date and place of birth Dates of attendance Telephone listing Degrees, honors, and awards received Email address Photograph Major field of study Grade level Enrollment status
Most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student
E. Parents and eligible students will be annually notified of their rights under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) through the local school parent/student handbook.
F. All student files are maintained in a secure place including files of graduates.
G. Parents are permitted to inspect and review educational records pertaining to their child who is under the age of 18 and who has not entered college. These rights transfer from the parents to the student when the student becomes eighteen (18) years of age, or enters an institute of post-secondary education, (i.e., an “eligible student”), unless the student has been adjudicated incompetent.
H. The parent or eligible student has authority to inspect and review records relating to the student and is given full rights of inspection and review.
13 I. The right to inspect and review educational records includes:
1. The right to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of the records of the school;
2. The right to receive copies of the records from the school if failure to provide those copies would effectively prevent the parent from exercising the right to inspect and review the records;
3. The right to have access to records within a reasonable time (no more than 45 days after the request);
4. The right to receive a copy of the student’s educational records from the school to use in a contemplated or pending hearing within the school.
J. The school may disclose a student’s records without a parent or eligible student’s permission as follows:
1. To other school officials who have legitimate educational interests;
2. To officials of other schools in which the student intends to enroll, provided that the parents are notified of the transfer, receive a copy of the record if desired, and have an opportunity for a hearing;
3. To authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Secretary of Education, or state or local educational authorities in accordance with 20 U.S.C. ññ 1232g(b)(3) and (b)(5), and authorized representatives of the attorney general for law enforcement purposes in accordance with ñ 1232g(b)(3).
4. To appropriate persons in connection with a student’s application for receipt of financial aid;
5. To state and local officials to whom such information is required to be disclosed by state statute adopted within a certain time frame;
6. To organizations conducting studies on behalf of educational agencies to develop, validate, or administer predictive tests;
7. To accrediting organizations;
8. To parents of a dependent student of such parents as defined by Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code;
9. In connection with an emergency, to appropriate persons if knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons;
10. a. To the entity or person designated in a Federal grand jury subpoena; b. To the entity or persons designated in any other subpoena issued for a law enforcement purpose.
11. Pursuant to a court order obtained by the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee relative to the investigation and prosecution of terrorism;
12. To the extent they contain information provided to the school pursuant to Section 170101 of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, concerning registered sex offenders;
13. To the extent the information is “directory information;”
14. In a legal action involving the school and parent(s) or eligible student(s) if such records are relevant for the school to either proceed with the legal action, or defend itself in the legal action; and
14
15. Any other situation in which such disclosure is permitted by federal, state, or local laws or regulations.
K. Each educational file has a record of each request for access to and each disclosure of personally identifiable information from the file. The record of access includes:
1. The identity of the party or parties;
2. The date access was given, and
3. The legitimate interest the party had in gaining access to the information. (The Record of Access and Review of Official Student Records form is found in the Administrative Handbook).
L. Upon request, the parent or eligible student may obtain a copy of the record that was disclosed.
M. The school requires written dated consent of a parent or eligible student before it discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s educational record, except in the situations described in J. above. The written consent specifies:
1. The records that may be disclosed,
2. The purpose of the disclosure, and
3. The person or class of persons to whom the records may be disclosed. (In such cases, the parent or eligible student, upon the parent’s request, shall be given a copy of the record disclosed.)
N. The school permits a parent or eligible student to request correction of the student educational record where they believe that such information is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of student’s rights of privacy or other rights. If the school decides not to amend the record, the school shall inform the parent or eligible student of its decision and his or her right to have a hearing on such a decision in accordance with FERPA. If the school, after the hearing, decides the record is accurate, it shall inform the parent or eligible student of the right to place a statement in the record commenting on the contested information in the record and why he or she disagrees with the decision.
O. In compliance with FERPA, the following statement will appear annually in the local diocesan school’s Parent/Student/ Handbook:
Such natural parent, guardian, individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or a guardian of a student, or eligible student may request the amendment of his/her students (or his/her own) educational records if he/she believes that such records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the principal decides not to amend the record as requested, such natural parent/guardian/acting parent/eligible student is entitled to a hearing on his/her request. 20 U.S.C. ñ 1232(g); 34 C.F.R. Part 99.
ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF PARENTAL ACCESS RIGHTS TO STUDENT’S RECORDS Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act
Any natural parent, guardian, individual acting as parent in the absence of a parent or guardian of a student of a diocesan school, or a student or former student who has reached eighteen (18) years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education has the following rights (unless there is a court order, State statute, or other legally-binding document precluding these rights):
1. Inspect and review the student’s educational records;
2. Request the amendment of the student’s educational records if he/she believes that they are not accurate;
15 3. Consent to disclosure of personally-identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act and the FERPA Regulation 99.31 authorize disclosures without consent, and
4. File with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint under 34 C.F.R. ñ 99.63 and ñ 99.64 concerning alleged failures by the agency or institution to comply with the requirements of the Act and this part.
Procedure for Inspecting and Reviewing Education Records
A parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student may inspect or review the student’s education records through a written request submitted to the school’s principal which specifies the specific education records to be inspected or examined. In the event the principal cannot determine the exact records as described, the principal or his/her designee shall immediately contact the parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student by letter or otherwise to determine the desired scope of education records to be inspected.
Compliance with all requests to access education records will occur without unnecessary delay, and in no case, more than 45 days after a request has been made. If requested, a parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student must be given access to the student’s pertinent education records before any meeting regarding an individualized education program or pending disciplinary hearing.
All inspections of education records shall be made during regular business hours.
Procedure for Requesting Amendment of Educational Records
In the event that a parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student believes that information in the student’s education records is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s rights of privacy or other rights, he/she may submit a written request to the principal for amendment of such records.
The school shall decide whether to amend the records as requested within a reasonable time after it receives the request.
If the school decides not to amend the record as requested, it shall inform the parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student of its decision and his/her right to a hearing.
A parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student my request a hearing regarding amendment of the student’s education records in writing to the school principal.
Disclosure of Education Records to School Officials
The school may disclose student’s education records to school officials, including teachers, who are determined to have a legitimate educational interest in the records without prior consent from the parent/guardian/individual acting as a parent/eligible student.
The school considers the following criteria in determining who constitutes a school official: A “school official” is any person in the Catholic Schools Office, or the school where the student (whose educational records are at issue) is attending, or has attended, who holds a position that involves 1) administering the school attended by that student, or several schools, including the school attended by that student; 2) teaching at a school attended by that student; or 3) providing guidance or counseling services to students at the school attended by that student.
The school utilizes the following criteria for determining what constitutes a legitimate educational interest: A “legitimate educational interest” is an interest in viewing a student’s educational records relating to: 1) the student’s academic history and performance; 2) the student’s disciplinary history; 3) obtaining information relating to guidance counseling or providing academic, personal, or other guidance to the student; and 4) the administration of the school attended by that student or Diocesan schools in general.
16 DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE-SOUTH BEND
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend admits to the schools over which it retains supervisory authority students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all rights, privilege, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students in the school.
The Diocese does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship, and student aid programs, athletic, and other school- administered programs.
ATTENDANCE
Absence
When a child is absent, his/her parent is to notify the school by 9:00 a.m. to report the absence and the reason.
When the child returns to school, a written excuse should be presented, signed by the parent, stating the date and the specific reason for an absence.
Requests for homework are to be made at the time of notifying the office of an absence.
A child who is absent 10 or more times may be referred to the Juvenile Justice Center, the CASIE Center, or Child Protective Services, especially when there are unexcused absences.
Chronic absences will result in loss of school privileges such as participation with dress down days, field trips, extracurricular activities and clubs, attendance/tardy probation, and/or dismissal from St. Matthew School.
Tardiness – School begins at 8:10 a.m.
A child is tardy if he/she is not sitting in his/her classroom seat by the 8:15 a.m. tardy bell. A written excuse, signed by the parent, stating the specific reason for tardiness is to accompany the child upon his arrival at school. A late arrival is preferred to a day’s absence.
Several studies have shown that school tardiness has a negative impact on learning outcomes.
“By the mere nature of arriving late and missing school hours, students receive fewer hours of instruction than students who are in class when the bell sounds. But not only does a student who is consistently arriving late to school establish bad punctuality habits, their tardiness also disrupts the learning of other students in their classes. The researchers found that students who are frequently late to school often miss out on important opening announcements and academic activities. ‘Teachers can become frustrated as late students disrupt instruction, often requiring re-teaching of what they have missed. Tardy behavior can also negatively affect the overall classroom environment,’ the study says. Arriving late to school can also mean that students miss out on activities designed to build connections with their peers, potentially impacting their social interactions and creating a greater sense of alienation from their classmates” (Teacher Magazine, Feb. 2017).
Students tardy due to circumstances beyond their control (car trouble, traffic accidents, etc.) are tardy, but it is an excused tardy. Students tardy due to oversleeping or alarm failure are tardy, but it is an unexcused tardy.
If a child is late, he or she must be escorted to door # 1, the Main Door, by a parent or guardian.
A child who is tardy regularly may be referred to the Juvenile Justice Center, the CASIE Center, or DCS.
Chronic tardiness will result in loss of school privileges such as participation with dress down days, field trips, extracurricular activities, athletics, and clubs as well as attendance/tardy probation and/or dismissal from SMCS.
17 Truancy
Students who are habitually truant shall be reported to the juvenile authorities in accordance with applicable state law.
Vacations
Students taking vacations on days not scheduled by the school may not be given make-up work in advance. All work missed will be made up following the student’s return to school. The main office and homeroom teacher should be consulted and notified in writing of such vacations. By law the school is not authorized to approve travel and vacation trips. It does recognize that custodial parents and guardians are responsible for their children and must assume the responsibility for such absences.
Early Dismissal
No child is excused early without a written request from the parent or communication with the main office/administration. The parent is expected to call the office unless other arrangements have been made. Scheduling of dentist and doctor appointments during school hours should be avoided whenever possible. To secure our students’ safety and to properly follow the pick-up procedures, there will not be early dismissal after 2:50 p.m. If you predict a situation that you will need your child prior to regular dismissal times then please pick up your child prior to 2:50 p.m. and park on the North end of the school to avoid pick-up parking. Students at the office waiting for early dismissal will be sent back to class for regular dismissal procedures; parents are asked to follow regular dismissal procedures after 2:50 p.m. Due to parking lot rows preparing for pick-up, a parent should park in the NE corner for early dismissal after 2:00 p.m.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4040
Students
Attendance
The Diocesan schools consider the development of good attendance habits as a vital and desirable undertaking for two essential reasons. First, it is difficult for young people to learn if they are not in class: the teaching-learning process builds upon itself. Secondly, research shows that educational achievement is directly related to attendance. A student who misses a day of school misses a day of education that cannot be retrieved in its entirety.
I. Parents/Legal Guardian Responsibility
Parent(s)/legal guardians are responsible for having their children in school. Indiana law prescribes that parents must have their children in public or private school from the age of seven (7) until the date on which the child:
A. Graduates; or B. Reaches at least sixteen (16) years of age or less than eighteen (18) years of age and: 1. the student and the student’s parent or guardian and the principal agree to the withdrawal; and 2. at the exit interview the student provides written acknowledgment of the withdrawal and the student’s parent or guardian and the school principal each provide written consent of the student to withdraw from school; or C. Reaches the age of eighteen (18) years. Whichever occurs first.
18 II. Absences from School
Absences from school shall fall into one of the three following categories:
A. Absences, which are counted as present.
1. Serving as a page for or honoree of the Indiana General Assembly; 2. For students in Grades 7 through 12, serving on a precinct election board or as a helper to a political candidate or political party on Election Day with prior approval of the principal; 3. Court appearances pursuant to a subpoena; 4. Active duty with the Indiana National Guard for not more than ten (10) days in a school year; 5. Placement in a short-term inpatient treatment program, which provides an instructional program; 6. Homebound instruction; 7. Religious observances.
B. Excused Absences
1. Illness of the student (with written statement by parent/ guardian or doctor) 2. Funerals a. for death in the immediate family b. for persons outside of the immediate family with parental permission 3. Out-of-school suspension 4. Medical and legal appointments - Such appointment should be scheduled after school hours when possible. 5. School/college visits (2 days) - Parents/guardians need to check with the individual school’s policy when arranging such visits.
C. Unexcused Absences
1. No parent/guardian contact with the school giving an explanation for the absence on the day of the absence. 2. No physician’s note to excuse an absence once more than 5 days of absence have occurred (see Frequent or Prolonged Illness below). 3. Family vacations 4. Absences other than those defined as excused or absences counted as present.
III. Truancy A student is truant when he/she is absent from school or class without the permission of his/her parent/guardian and the school. Students, who are habitually truant, shall be reported to the juvenile authorities in accordance with applicable state law and following diocesan procedures:
The following may be evidence of habitual truancy:
A. Refusal to attend school in defiance of parental authority.
B. Accumulating a number of absences without justification over a period of time, such as a grading period. Habitual truancy is not evidenced by a single isolated incident of unexcused absence.
C. Three (3) or more judicial findings of truancy.
19 IV. Reporting an Absence
A parent/guardian shall contact the school to report a student’s absence. Each school has established procedures for reporting absences. Absences will not be excused and the student may be considered truant if the procedure for reporting an absence is not followed.
A written explanation for any absence signed by a parent/guardian is required upon the return of the student to school. The school is not required to provide credit for makeup of assigned work missed because the student’s absence is unexcused or the student is truant.
V. Frequent or Prolonged Illness
If a student is absent for five consecutive days due to illness, or has contracted a contagious disease, a physician’s statement may be required in order for the student to return to school.
VI. Response to Irregular Attendance
If an irregular attendance pattern begins to develop, the school may use the following procedure to encourage the student’s return to a pattern of regular school attendance.
A. Call daily from school (secretary, principal, or attendance clerk), to the parent/guardian to verify absence and to determine reason.
B. After a student is absent for six (6) days per school year, a school administrator, attendance clerk, or counselor will make contact with the student’s parent/guardian. The date and content of this contact shall be documented.
C. After a student is absent over twelve (12) days per school year, a conference shall be held with the parent/guardian and the student. An attendance contract may be established at this time and documentation shall be kept.
D. After a student is absent over fifteen (15) days per school year, a referral shall be made to the principal. If the principal is unable to successfully resolve the attendance problem, a referral may be made to the intake officer of the local Juvenile Probation Department.
VII. Habitual Truancy Report to BMV
If the student is at least 13 years of age but less than 15 years of age and is truant more than 10 times in one (1) school year, the student shall be designated as a habitual truant and reported to the bureau of motor vehicles as provided by State law.
20 School Day Schedule
7:40 a.m. Door 2 opens for students to enter (South doors) 8:00 a.m. First bell rings – students go to their classrooms 8:10 a.m. School begins 8:15 a.m. Tardy bell – students must be in their seats ready for prayer and pledge by this time 2:50 p.m. Early dismissal students MUST be signed out before 2:50 p.m. otherwise they will not be dismissed until 3:15 p.m. (Use NE parking lot after 2:00 p.m.) Parking lots on South and West side of buildings must be cleared for pick-up routine to begin. Please do not arrive early and block traffic. Be courteous to others. 3:00 p.m. Preschool pick-up – driving North through the alley; parents remain in vehicles. 3:05 p.m. Students will be brought to the gym for prayer, announcements, & dismissal. Parking lots used for pick-up only – no parking and entering the building from South and West parking. 3:15 p.m. Dismissal of students to vehicles; no departure until all students are loaded in cars 3:25 p.m. Traffic will be cleared from our pick-up routine. Parking lots return to regular usage.
Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. must be escorted to the Main Doors (Door #1).
Students are dismissed at 3:15 p.m. and are to be picked up promptly. Any student remaining on school property without a designated adult will be sent to the after-care in the cafeteria where the regular daily fee will be applied.
School Closings
All WEATHER related delays and closings follow Marian High School. In the case of severe or inclement weather, school closings of Marian/St. Matthew Cathedral School will be announced on local radio and television stations, as well as the Alert Messaging Connection. Whenever school is cancelled due to weather or any other emergency, all after-school activities scheduled for that day will be officially cancelled unless contacted otherwise.
Volunteers All volunteers must complete a background check, which is valid for 5 years. This is in compliance with Diocesan Safe Environment Policy. This includes parents/guardians who wish to accompany field trips, room parties, lunchroom volunteering, etc.
Visitors and Telephone Calls The school office will be open daily from 7:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. for the convenience of parents and students.
All visitors to the building are asked to report to the office to sign-in and receive a visitor’s badge. Parents can pick up children at the cafeteria door with After-School Care beginning at 3:25 p.m. If not otherwise indicated by the supervising adult, students in after school clubs, activities, and detentions should get picked-up in the main South parking lot.
Parents on Visitor business during the school day should not interrupt classes to speak to a teacher. Parents wanting to see a teacher should make an appointment with the teacher. It is important that teachers remain free to monitor the children in their care. Teachers have voice mail messaging and emails (first initial last [email protected]). No child should be called on devices during school hours; please contact the main office to communicate. Students are not permitted to have cell phones or other devices on their person or in their lockers during the school day. If a child does not NEED his/her device at school, please keep it in the safety of your home. St. Matthew Cathedral School is not responsible for devices brought to school.
Emergency messages OR messages to a child for a change in dismissal plans should only be left with the school secretary/administration. A child will be permitted to use the school phone as determined by administration. A student forgetting lunch or is in dress code violation may be given permission to call home after considerations to
21 accommodate from school have been made. Students who forget items often will not be allowed to call home for non- emergency purposes. DRESS CODE
The dress code is a direct reflection of the school’s overall mission as a Catholic Christian educational institution dedicated to the development of the whole person. A student’s dress and grooming must show respect and concern for oneself and others. Students should dress modestly. Students’ dress will not present a distraction to themselves or other students.
We expect our students to be well groomed and dressed neatly and cleanly. Overall appearance will not be ragged, unkempt, excessive, or extreme. Clothing, shoes, and accessories will present no safety hazards.
The administration reserves the right to rule on the final interpretation of any and all dress code guidelines. If a student is uncertain about the acceptability of an outfit or article of clothing, he or she should bring it to the administration for review before wearing it to school.
Uniforms
The following policy states only what is allowed to be worn. Anything not listed below should be considered “not allowed to wear.”
The following applies to students in grades K – 8 unless otherwise indicated. The dress code rules will be enforced.
SHIRTS: Boys and girls may wear plain light blue, navy, or white shirts, long or short sleeve, collared, oxford, cloth, or knit. Only the top button of shirts may be unbuttoned. Small emblems or manufacturer’s logos are acceptable, but monograms or lettering are not permitted. T-shirts worn under uniform tops must be plain white. Plain crew long-sleeved shirts may be worn if they match the shirt worn and have no designs or wording. Shirts must be completely tucked into pants, shorts, or skirts at all times.
SWEATERS: Plain navy blue or white in V-neck, pullover, or cardigan. The only fleece that may be worn during the school day is the spirit-wear fleece with the St. Matthew’s logo. The only jacket/sweater that may be worn during the regular school day is the St. Matthew Cathedral School logo fleece, the traditional navy/white school uniform sweater, or an additional style presented by administration for the whole school.
PANTS: Boys and girls may wear loose-fitting dress-up navy or tan slacks. Girls may wear loose-fitting dress-up navy or tan capris if preferred. They must be standard waistline pants with plain navy, black, or brown belts. All uniform pants & uniform shorts must be Navy or Beige dress-up Khakis (not camel). For grades 5-8, all uniform pants MUST be loose fitting with NO elastic. For grades 5-8, all uniform pants/shorts MUST have belt loops AND students in grades 5-8 MUST wear belts. Cargo pants are NOT allowed for all grade levels K-8.
BELTS: All students in grades 5-8 must wear pants/shorts with loops and belts. All belts must be only navy, black, or brown.
SKIRTS, JUMPERS, SKORTS: Navy or tan skirts, jumpers, or skorts of any style are acceptable. Skirts, jumpers, or skorts need to touch the top of the knee while standing and may not be rolled up.
SOCKS: Socks must be SOLID white, tan, navy, or black. Girls may wear SOLID colored white, tan, navy, or black leggings/tights under a dress, jumper, skort, or skirt. NO emblems, logos, or designs
SHOES: Dress or athletic shoes are both acceptable. Athletic shoes are to be worn for gym classes. Sandals may be worn if they have a strap across the heel. Shoes should be flat with a back and no raised heels. A shoe with a heel may be worn only for special occasions when designated, such as May Crowning or other dress-up days. Boots of all kinds are not considered acceptable for the school day, unless indicated for a special occasion or dress down/up day.
22 WALKING SHORTS: Navy blue or tan uniform walking shorts may be worn. Shorts may be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee. Cargo shorts are NOT allowed. For grades 5-8, all uniform shorts MUST be loose-fitting with NO elastic.
ACCESSORIES: SCARF: No scarves are to be worn with the uniform. COSMETICS: No eye make-up may be worn. Other make-up must be natural looking. JEWERLY: Boys may not wear earrings to school. Girls may wear one simple earring per ear. Necklaces are to be simple and not showing with the exception of a simple Crucifix or plain necklace. Single wrist jewelry may be worn but it must be simple.
HAIR: Should be neat, clean, natural color, and well groomed for all students. Hair should not be worn below the eyebrows. Boy’s hair length should not extend below the ears nor extend below the collar of the shirt. Extreme/unusual hairstyles will not be permitted. This includes a mohawk and/or a shaven head with names, symbols, lines, designs, patterns, etc. The face and the eyebrows should be visible. Middle school boys must maintain a clean-shaven appearance with no visible facial hair. No bandanas may be worn. All final decisions are the right of the administration.
GUIDELINES FOR SPIRIT WEAR FRIDAYS (optional): SMCS’s official spirit-wear OR sports/extracurricular school/team jerseys are acceptable with regular uniform pants for Spirit Wear Fridays.
GUIDELINES FOR NON-UNIFORM DAYS: We will have special themed non-uniform days and all rules of the dress code apply with the exception of the theme permitted. Generally, flyers or information will go out to explain the theme and purpose of the non-uniform day. The calendar on the website will remain up-to-date with changes.
All non-uniform days, including Spirit Wear Fridays, are privileges granted to students. Administration holds the right to withhold this privilege to a student, group of students, grade level, or the whole student body.
Preschool students are not required to wear uniforms. These students are expected to dress in a manner that is neat, clean, and appropriate for school.
Rules will be strictly enforced.
Purposeful dress code violations by a student will result in loss of privileges and/or up to dismissal from SMCS.
If there is a financial strain please let us know and we will try to assist in purchasing the items.
23 DISCIPLINE POLICY
Discipline is fundamental in a Catholic School to ensure the high standard of a Catholic Education. Discipline can be considered from two points of view:
Intellectual - the ability to think clearly and logically in light of correct principles.
Moral - the habit of always acting in conformity with the right reason, which is a virtue.
The essence of Christian moral discipline is self-discipline. Our hope is that our students will be motivated by the greater good, and with the guidance and direction of their parents, teachers, and other significant adults in their lives, their ability and willingness to make choices that are in line with the teachings of Christ will grow and flourish.
Self discipline, respect for others, and cheerful cooperation are considered basic behaviors for St. Matthew Cathedral School students. Students are expected to be honorable, charitable, and responsible. Disciplinary actions are corrective measures of inappropriate behaviors. They are intended to provide an appropriate reaction based on the seriousness of the offense with the intent to have the student: Realize the misbehavior or poor choice Understand the concern of the school and the expectations Be strengthened to make amends and make the appropriate choice in the future
This policy applies when students attend activities off school premises, are under the supervision of staff, and in any instance where they are representing St. Matthew Cathedral School.
Teachers will handle all normal discipline problems that occur in the classroom.
Problems that occur in the cafeteria or on the playground may be referred to the homeroom teacher or administration.
In cases of extreme emergency or persistent offenses that disrupt the learning process, the teacher may send the child to the principal’s office and consequences will result from the disruption/behavior.
The Latin root of discipline is disciplina meaning teaching or instruction, but disciplina is derived from the Latin word discipulus which gives us the English word disciple. You cannot arrive at disciplina without discipulus, just as you cannot be a disciple without discipline.
Discipline
If an offense is considered serious, school administration will be involved in the incident.
Some examples of serious misbehaviors are:
A. Deliberate disobedience or defiance toward any person in authority, such as teachers, teacher assistants, office staff, playground monitors, cafeteria, maintenance personnel, etc. B. Habitual disruptive behavior such as inappropriately speaking out, excessive talking during class, deliberate distractions, and/or inappropriate behavior on parish/school property C. Physical or verbal abuse, including fighting, intimidation, harassment, or bullying of others D. Damage to parish, school, or another person’s property E. Stealing, lying, or cheating
24 F. Truancy or unauthorized leaving of school G. Other – which is considered serious by school personnel
Students will be given opportunities to correct unacceptable behaviors for St. Matthew Cathedral School unless the offense warrants immediate dismissal due to its nature, seriousness of the offense, threat to others, or recognition by administration to lack the ability to best serve the needs of the challenges of a given student.
Students who do not correct behaviors or who do not make efforts for their own behalf will be asked to leave St. Matthew Cathedral School.
St. Matthew Cathedral School has the right to remove a child who is not meeting the expectations of the school. This can include academic or behavior reasons. We seek to work as a team to assist every child who attends St. Matthew Cathedral School.
The true disciples of Jesus practiced discipline not because they were afraid of punishment, but because they loved Jesus. As I accept the need for discipline in my life, I do so with the hope of growing closer to Christ. May all our disciplines transform us into faithful disciples of Jesus.
Gum/Snack Policy
Gum chewing and snacking are not allowed during the school day in the building, on school property, or on field trips unless authorized by staff.
Telephone/Cell Phone
The office telephone may be used when a student has permission. Parents must contact their child during the school day by calling the school office.
Electronic communication devices, cell phones, and other electronic media devices disrupt the educational process and are not to be used from the time the student arrives at school until 3:15 p.m. after the student has left the school. These devices must be turned off and placed in a container in the student’s homeroom. Examples of these devices include, but are not limited to: cell phones, camera phones, PDA’s, pagers, cameras, digital recorders, iPods, mp3 players, radios, headphones, personal stereo systems, electronic game players, CD players, DVD players, camcorders, laser pointers, etc.
Electronic devices, which are either seen or heard, may be confiscated with the following consequences administered.
First Offense: Detention. Parent must pick up the device. Second Offense: Detention. Parent may pick up device 2 weeks later. Third Offense: Discipline. Parent may pick up device at the end of the semester.
25 Cafeteria Guidelines
Politeness, courtesy, and cooperation toward faculty, lunch assistants, and other students are expected at all times. Students are responsible for cleaning their own places, the table at which they are seated, and the area around it. Students are expected to exhibit good table manners and courtesy at all times in the cafeteria. Talking should be done only with persons seated next to you or across from you. Keeping your voice soft will help make the cafeteria a pleasant place for all. To assist the volunteers to record lunches quickly and accurately, students purchasing hot lunch must enter the cafeteria with their homeroom and in alphabetical order by last name.
Church
All students will join for Mass and in our celebrations in song and prayer. When entering and departing church, you should remember that it is God’s dwelling place and adore Him with a respectful genuflection and proper use of holy water. In reverence for Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament, you are to be silent when entering and leaving the Church. Parents are always welcome to join us for school Mass; however, students remain with their classroom.
Academic Integrity
The honest presentation of student work is the basis of effective instruction, in addition to being a sign of good character. Only when shown what students actually know can teachers plan lessons that address deficiencies and extend learning.
Cheating on tests and quizzes; copying another person’s homework; allowing someone to copy your work; plagiarism of any sort, including taking materials from the internet; or turning in the work of a parent, other student, or anyone else’s as your own are serious breaches of academic integrity, as well as of Christian morality.
Students guilty of this behavior will receive a zero for the test or assignment. Their parents or guardians will be notified. Students guilty of repeated offenses will be referred to the principal for further disciplinary action.
DETENTION
A teacher, or the principal, may assign students after-school detention for academic or behavioral issues. Students will be notified at least one day in advance. Sports practices, games, club meetings, etc., are not acceptable reasons for deferring a detention.
Behavior Detentions for disruption of the academic setting impacts the learning of an entire class. This is unacceptable for our Catholic Education setting. We consider offenses of classroom disruption as a serious compromise to our high academic learning environment. Repeated behavior detentions are cause for behavior contracts, suspensions, or other disciplinary actions to be decided by the administration. Failure to correct these offenses will result in a behavior contract followed by dismissal from our school.
It is required of St. Matthew Cathedral School students to serve detentions. • The student will be issued a detention slip stating the reason for the detention. • The student is required to get a parent’s/guardian’s signature and return the form the next day. • The detention form must be signed by the parent OR signed by the teacher with a notation of the alternate form of parent communication (i.e., e-mail, text, phone call, in person). • Detentions slips should only be returned to the staff member who issued the detention, not the main office or administration. • Failure to get a detention signed does not negate the requirement to serve. • Further consequences will occur as determined by administration. • Parents or students may choose to discuss a detention with the teacher. However, students will be required to serve detentions given. • Failure to serve a detention will result in suspension and/or dismissal from the school.
26 During a behavior detention the child will be given some type of reflective work, it will not be a time for visiting or doing homework. Detentions will be held in the teachers’ classrooms on the specified day until 4:00 p.m. Parents will be required to provide transportation for their child immediately after detention. Students not picked up will be sent to after-school care and charged.
Recess detentions or other instances of removing a child from his or her peers during school may be used when deemed appropriate.
After School Academic Detentions will be given for: • Three incidences of not having completed homework turned in on time for a given teacher in grades 6-8 • Six incidences for grade 5 • Ten incidences for grade 4 The total number of incidences will begin at zero for all students at the beginning of each quarter.
During an academic detention the child will work on their current homework and often review their grades and get guidance. Detentions will be held in the teachers’ classrooms on the specified day until 4:00 p.m. Parents will be required to provide transportation for their child immediately after detention. Students not picked up will be sent to after-school care and charged.
If a student habitually has incomplete or missing assignments, he or she will be placed on academic probation. If a student continues to have incomplete or missing assignments after being placed on probation, he or she will be asked to withdraw from St. Matthew Cathedral School.
P4410 Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend Students Religious Issues
The teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church are the guiding principles of behavior for all students while enrolled in a diocesan school.
I. Pregnancy - Elementary Student
Every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and his or her life must be respected and protected from the moment of conception until natural death. When a student(s) becomes involved in a pregnancy, the Catholic school must act to provide assistance and support for the student and his or her family.
While the first responsibility for the pastoral, spiritual, and psychological care of the students involved in a pregnancy belongs to the parents/guardians of the students(s), the Church and the school also bear serious responsibility.
When a pastor/principal is made aware that a student(s) is involved in a pregnancy, the following action shall be taken:
A. The pastor and principal should meet with both parties, the male and female, and their parents/guardians to investigate the situation and to assure them, if necessary, that the young people involved will be provided with the opportunity to complete his/her education in the Catholic school without interruption.
B. Both parties, the male and female, should then be referred for pastoral counseling given by a priest and a social worker or psychological counselor. This counseling must emphasize the teaching of the Catholic Church on the sanctity of human life from the first moment of conception.
27 C. The pastor and principal must seek to assist the young people to ensure that the child is born, not aborted.
D. The school’s administration, after consultation with the school’s pastor/designated priest, will decide whether any sanctions are to be imposed on the students. Because of the public nature of the situation and the Catholic identity of the school, the principal, in consultation with the pastor, reserves the right to undertake whatever additional action(s) seem appropriate for the well-being of the student(s) involved and the school as a whole.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4520 Students Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion of Students
I. The grounds for suspension or expulsion below apply to student conduct which occurs:
A. On school grounds;
B. Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event;
C. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
D. At any other time when the principal determines that the students conduct either causes harm or could potentially cause harm to the other students, school employees or property, or the reputation of the School or Diocese.
II. The following types of student conduct constitute a non-exclusive listing of grounds for suspension or expulsion subject to the school’s provisions for disciplinary review contained in P4530.
A. Any conduct which, in the opinion of school officials, is contrary to the principles and teachings of the Catholic Church.
B. Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or other comparable conduct constituting an interference with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such conduct.
C. Causing or attempting to cause damage to property belonging to any other person, student, school employee or the school, stealing or attempting to steal property belonging to any other person, student, school employee, or school.
D. Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intentionally behaving in such a way that, in the opinion of school officials, could cause physical injury to any person.
E. Threatening or intimidating any individual for whatever purpose.
F. Violation of the diocese’s Gun-Free School Policy.
G. Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under influence of any controlled substance or intoxicant of any kind. The prescribed use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a physician is not a violation of its use.
H. Engaging in the unlawful selling of a controlled substance or engaging in a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or constitutes an interference with school purposes and/or educational function.
I. Failing in a substantial number of instances to comply with directions of teachers or other school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under their supervision.
28 J. Engaging in any activity forbidden by the laws of the State of Indiana that interferes with school purposes or education function.
K. Violating or repeatedly violating any rules that are, in the opinion of the school officials, necessary to carrying out school purposes and/or educational function.
L. Using on school grounds during school hours an electronic paging device or a hand-held portable telephone in a situation not related to a school purpose or educational function.
M. Engaging in any unlawful activity on or off school grounds if the unlawful activity is considered by school officials to be an interference with school purposes or educational function.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4530 Students Disciplinary Review for Students (Suspension or Expulsion)
Any student accused of wrongdoing in violation of school or diocesan policy that could result in the student’s suspension or expulsion from the school will be given:
1. An explanation of what the student is accused of doing that is wrong; and
2. An opportunity for the student, in the presence of the student’s parents, to respond to the accusations before either the principal or impartial tribunal established by the school’s administration for the purpose of making a recommendation on the matter to the principal.
The principal (in consultation with the pastor in the case of an elementary school) shall be responsible to make a final decision on all such matters. The principal’s decision shall be final and binding on all parties.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 2310 Community Relations Parent/Legal Guardian Concerns Procedure
To facilitate and promote the orderly and efficient resolution of concerns, parents/legal guardians wishing to address and/or question an academic area or situation regarding a specific teacher or classroom procedure must follow the grievance procedure below:
Step 1: Address the issues with the classroom teacher (or the person with whom he/she has the problem).
Step 2: Address the issue with the Principal.
Step 3: Address the issue with the Pastor (elementary schools only).
Step 4: If the issue is not satisfactorily resolved, then the parent/guardian should place his/her concerns in writing to the person involved and his/her supervisors (e.g., pastor and principal).
Parents/legal guardians should follow the steps set forth in this policy, except where a situation is specifically covered under another school or Diocesan policy which provides for a different reporting procedure (e.g., harassment).
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend- Policy 4550 Students Student Accused of a Non-School Related Criminal Act
29 A student accused of a non-school related criminal act which does not subject the student to suspension or expulsion pursuant to Policy 4520 is presumed innocent and no academic or disciplinary penalties will necessarily be imposed regarding that alleged criminal act unless the student is proven guilty or admits guilt through the civil law process.
Some circumstances, such as a need to protect the safety and/or the privacy of the student or others, may necessitate such student’s removal from the normal academic setting pending the outcome of the civil law process. In this case, the wishes of the student and/or custodial parents/legal guardians will be considered, but the final decision regarding removal is the principal’s, after consultation with the pastor and/or Superintendent of Schools. Should such a removal be deemed necessary, a program of home study will be developed and implemented for the student.
See P4520 - Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion of Students
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4560 Students Gun-Free Schools
Students are prohibited from facilitating in any way the delivery of a firearm, destructive device, or deadly weapon to school or school functions. Further, students are prohibited from possessing a firearm, destructive device, or deadly weapon while en route to or from school or school activities, or while on school property or at school activities. A violation of this policy carries an automatic expulsion from school. The term of expulsion shall be established by the principal after consultation with the Superintendent of Schools. Subject to modification by the Superintendent of Schools, a student expelled for bringing a firearm or destructive device to school or a school activity or for possessing a firearm or destructive device on school property or at a school activity may not return to the school until the first school semester after a one (1) year expulsion period. Exceptions may be made to this policy concerning antique or ornamental firearms or weapons that are transported or possessed for an authorized educational purpose, or firearms or weapons that are used as part of an authorized school program or activity. Any exception must be approved, in advance and in writing, by the principal. A violation of any limitation or requirement contained within a policy exception that is granted by the principal shall be considered a violation of this policy. Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4570 Students Substance Abuse
The Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend recognizes that substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) is a disease and not a manifestation of character weakness. Persons afflicted with this disease are entitled to the same compassion and treatment as anyone afflicted with any other disease.
If a principal becomes aware of facts or circumstances which give the principal reason to believe that a student is experiencing a substance abuse problem, the principal and/or the school’s counselor shall meet with the student and arrange a conference with the student’s parent(s)/legal guardian(s) at which time the underlying problem and treatment options will be explored, as appropriate. The principal reserves the right to require that a student see a substance abuse counselor for an evaluation at the parent/guardian (‘s) expense, and to require that recommendations for treatment be implemented and followed by the student as a condition for the student’s continued enrollment in the school. Should the student or the student’s parent(s)/legal guardian(s) refuse to cooperate, the principal may require the student to withdraw from school.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the principal reserves the right to discipline a student, up to and including expulsion, for any violation of the school’s policies or rules and regulations of student behavior, regardless of whether the violation was involved or related to a substance abuse problem.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4580 Students Harassment Prohibition
30 It is the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment based on sex, race, national origin, color, age, disability, or any other impermissible factor that is prohibited by law and/or the teachings of the Catholic Church.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee of the Catholic schools to harass a student through conduct or communications of a sexual nature as defined in Section I of the Procedure to this policy or on any other impermissible grounds described in Section II of the Procedure to this policy. It shall also be a violation of this policy for any student to harass another student or employee, through conduct or communication of a sexual nature as defined in Section I of the Procedure and on any other impermissible grounds as described in Section II of this Procedure. (For harassment against employees, see Policy and Procedure 3630). The use of the term “employee” in this policy and procedure also includes non-employees and volunteers who work subject to the control of school authorities.
Procedure for Policy 4580 Sexual/Racial Harassment Prohibition This policy and procedure covers situations in which a student claims to be the victim of harassment
I. Sexual Harassment
A. Sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by any employee to a student, or made by any student to another student.
B. Conduct of a sexual nature may include verbal or physical sexual advances, looks, leers, gestures, comments, jokes, or other inappropriate conduct based on the victim’s sex.
C. The Diocese forbids sexual harassment and retains the right to address sexual harassment or inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature in the schools through whatever means it determines are reasonable and appropriate.
II. Other Forms of Harassment
A. Harassment may be based on any protected characteristic, including race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or other protected area. Harassment may consist of unwelcome, derogatory, and/or inappropriate verbal or physical comments or conduct relating to the victims race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or other protected trait, made by any employee to a student, or made by any student to another student.
B. Comments or conduct of an offensive or harassing nature may include verbal or written comments, jokes, or physical gestures regarding physical, personality, or other characteristics related to a person’s race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or other protected trait.
C. The Diocese prohibits harassment and retains the right to address harassing conduct through whatever means it determines are reasonable and appropriate.
III. Complaint Procedures for Students
A. Students and/or their parents/guardians may bring a harassment complaint by notifying the pastor (in the case of an elementary school), principal, assistant principal, or other person specifically designated by the school, of the alleged harassment. School officials who receive complaints must insure that the complaint procedure explained below in Section III, C is followed.
B. The right of confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected consistent with the school’s legal obligations and the necessity to investigate allegations of misconduct and to take reasonable and appropriate action if warranted.
31 C. All complaints of harassment shall be handled in the following manner:
1. Complaints are preferred in writing on forms supplied by the school. If a verbal complaint is made, the school official who receives the complaint (i.e., the pastor, principal, assistant principal, or other designee) shall complete a written report;
2. Written reports must name the person(s) charged with harassment and state the facts;
3. If the written report identifies a student(s) as the alleged perpetrator, the school official who received and/or prepared the report must present it to the principal of the school where the alleged conduct occurred (or, as an alternative, to the pastor or Vicar General if the principal is the subject of the report). The principal will immediately (the same day) inform the superintendent, pastor (in an elementary school), and/or school attorney;
4. The principal who receives a written report of harassment shall immediately review the report and information readily available and should consult with the superintendent;
5. The principal should determine if the allegations in the report and the information readily available appears to meet the definition of harassment as given under Section I or II, respectively.
a. If the information received or discovered, at any stage of the investigation, gives the recipient reason to believe that an alleged victim is a victim of child abuse or neglect as defined by law, the matter must also be handled according to the child Abuse Reporting Policy 3610;
b. If the allegations and information initially appear to constitute harassment, the principal shall take the following steps:
(1) Complete the Investigative Report of Alleged Harassment;
(2) Conduct any necessary follow-up, gather additional information, conduct interviews with any students or staff having information, and gather witnesses who have knowledge of the situation;
(3) Contact the parents of all students known to be involved.
6. The principal is responsible for the decision in the matter but may establish a Discipline Board assist. The report and results of the investigation will be utilized by the school to:
a. determine appropriate disciplinary action;
b. determine need for counseling referral; and,
c. determine who will be responsible for continued monitoring and appropriate follow-up of the situation.
IV. Sanctions for Misconduct
A substantiated charge against an employee or student in the school shall subject that employee or student to such disciplinary action that the pastor/principal determines necessary consistent with Diocesan Policy and/or the school disciplinary policy.
V. False Reporting
Any person who knowingly files false charges of harassment against an employee or a student in an attempt to demean, harass, abuse, or embarrass that individual may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
32
Bullying
Bullying is intentional harmful behavior initiated by one or more students and directed toward another student. Bullying means engaging in written, verbal, or electronic expression or physical conduct that results in bodily harm, causes psychological distress, damages a student’s property, or places a student in fear of harm. Bullying exists when a student with more social and/or physical power deliberately dominates and harasses another student who has less power. Bullying is unjustified and typically is repeated.
St. Matthew Cathedral School will not tolerate bullying and retains the right to address bullying conduct through whatever means it determines reasonable and appropriate.
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - 4590
Students
Student Locker and Vehicle Searches
All students who enroll in a diocesan school must consent to the search of their person and personal belongings, lockers, school desks, vehicles, etc., at any time and for any reason consistent with this policy.
I. Persons and Personal Belongings
The school reserves the right to examine the contents of the student’s pockets, purses, cell phone, electronic devices, back packs, book bags, or other personal belongings when an administrator has reason to suspect they may contain inappropriate or illegal materials or items. This right of inspection is effective at all times while the student is on school premises or at a school-sponsored event.
II. Student Lockers
All lockers, school desks, cloak rooms, etc., (“lockers”) made available for student use on the school premises, including, but not limited to, lockers located in the hallways, physical education and athletic dressing rooms, industrial education classrooms, and art classrooms, are the property of the school. These lockers are made available for student use in storing personal effects such as clothing, coats, etc., school supplies, and personal items necessary for use at school, but the lockers are not to be used to store items which cause or could cause an injury, an interference with school purposes or an education function, or which are inappropriate or forbidden by federal or state law or diocesan or school policy or rules. The student’s use of the locker does not diminish the school’s ownership or control of the locker. A student may not expect to have privacy in a locker or its contents. Random locker checks are made to help secure compliance.
The school retains the right to inspect the locker and its content to ensure that the locker is being used solely in accordance with its intended purposes.
Each school shall develop rules and procedures for the inspection and maintenance of school lockers.
III. Vehicles
Parking facilities may be made available to students upon approval of the school administrators. The school, however, reserves the right to establish rules for the use of such parking facilities including the right to examine the contents of any vehicle while parked on school premises when an administrator has reason to suspect that the contents of such vehicle may include items or elements which are in violation of school or diocesan policy, inappropriate, illegal to possess, have been stolen or lost, or present a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of students or staff.
33 IV. Searches Searches will be conducted by the administrator or administrator’s designee in the presence of a witness.
Acceptable Use Policy (Internet) - Policy 4620
“The school shall follow the Diocesan Internet Policy and Standards. A copy of the policy is available in the school office during business hours.” St. Matthew Cathedral School will employ a statement of policy stating the Acceptable Use of the Internet in the school and utilize written Internet User and Permission Agreements. These written agreements are to be signed by each student, their parents/guardians, and teachers. They outline the agreed to terms and conditions of Internet use and shall be kept on file. The policy specifically sets out acceptable uses, rules of on-line behavior, and access privileges. It also covers the penalties for violations of the policy, including security violations and vandalism of the system.
SMCS After-School Care Program Time: 3:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Families have many different schedules and plans for their children after school. Please inform the main office when you need to utilize after-school care and are not generally scheduled. Also, please notify the office if your child normally has after-school care but will be picked up immediately at dismissal instead. Regular attending after- school care families will be assigned the A lanes for the 3:15 after school pick-up routine.
After-School Care will take place in the cafeteria after school and is offered until 5:30 p.m. 3:15-3:45 p.m. = $2.00; if your child is not picked up by 3:45 you will be charged the next hour rate 3:45-4:45 p.m. = $4.00 4:45-5:30 p.m. = $4.00; this cost is more expensive due to less students attending and still 2 staff members employed.
Beginning promptly at 5:30 p.m., a charge of $5.00 for every five minutes late will apply; no discounts or exemptions for late fees. Please be respectful to the staff present by picking up your child on time. We must continue to pay for 2 employee wages; therefore we need to ensure that our employees are getting off of work as scheduled. Thank you for your cooperation.
All participating families will be billed regularly but families are encouraged to pay ahead. Failure to pay the regular bill will exclude continued use of the program and will hold up end-of-the-year records and/or further attendance at SMCS. If there is a personal difficulty in making timely payments, please contact the Principal or After-School Care Director.
The After-School Program Director will utilize the school’s emergency forms. Please keep the school’s information up to date, especially phone number changes. 1. Only approved individuals listed on the emergency forms can pick up a student unless otherwise notified by the student’s parent/legal guardian. We apologize for any inconvenience but safety of all children is our highest priority. 2. Parents or other assigned individuals must sign their child out of after school care. 3. Pick-up from after-school care takes place at the cafeteria door. 4. If your child is part of an after-school activity and is not picked up in a timely manner then your child may be asked to go to after-school care in the cafeteria.
COMMUNICATION FOLDER
The information flow between home and school is very important. In order to expedite this two-way process, communication folders will be utilized. An orange communication folder will be sent to each household on Thursdays through one of the students, typically youngest and only children. The parent acknowledgment sheet should be signed each week; the folder should be returned the next day.
34
MEDICATION
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 4210
Students
Administration of Medication
The purpose of administering medication in school is to help each student maintain an optimal state of health to enhance his/her educational plans. Only those medications which are prescribed as necessary by a physician to maintain the child in school and must be given during school hours shall be administered in accordance with the physician’s written prescription, a copy of which must be provided to the school.
A policy shall be developed in each school as to who shall administer the medications. In each building in which less than a full-time registered nurse is hired, access to medication shall be under the authority of the principal.
Each school shall designate in writing the specific locked or limited access space within each building to store pupil medication.
Parents are responsible for bringing all medication to the school office.
Schools may not routinely administer over-the-counter medication. Over-the-counter medications shall be administered at home. Over-the-counter medication shall be administered at school only in accordance with diocesan-approved procedures:
I. Prescription Medications
A program for administration of prescription medications is developed and managed by the principal and/or school nurse: A. A school WILL NOT administer a prescription medication to a student unless the school has the following on file:
1. The written order of the student’s physician or health practitioner; AND 2. Written permission from the student’s parent or guardian.
Any student taking prescribed medication at a school MUST have the appropriate information on file or the student will be in violation of the policy.
B. Medications prescribed for a student (legend drugs) are kept in the original container/package with pharmacy label and student’s name affixed. The pharmacy label can serve as the written order of a practitioner.
C. All medications are kept in locked areas (other than classrooms) or inside tamper-proof containers.
D. When a medication is to be administered at school, the student’s parents shall be requested to advise the school nurse (or principal) of the purpose of the medication, side effects, dosage, administration route, and time. This information is discussed with the student and other staff assigned to administer medication.
35 E. All permission for long-term medication shall be renewed at least annually. Changes in medication shall be documented by written authorization from a licensed prescriber.
F. In specific cases, the school (at the discretion of the principal and/or school nurse) may require that the parent/guardian come to the school to administer medication for his/her child. The school may also work with the licensed prescriber and parent/guardian to adjust administration time to avoid the need for medications during school hours.
G. For all medications administered, the school shall keep on file the written order of a practitioner for legend drugs.
II. Over-the-counter Medications (OTC)
A. School personnel may not provide over-the-counter medications for a student.
B. OTC (non-prescription) medication may be administered at school with the parent’s written permission. The principal and/or school nurse must be aware of the purpose for which a student is to receive the medication.
C. OTC medication shall be provided by the parent for the student with the manufacturer’s original label with the ingredients listed and the student’s name affixed to the original package. It will be stored in a central dispensing area and secured.
D. The parent/guardian must provide consent forms giving authority to the school to administer the OTC medication.
E. For all medications administered, the school shall keep on file the written permission of the pupil’s parent(s)/guardian for OTC medication, along with any Written Order of a physician if applicable. (See Parent Authorization Form).
III. Self-administered Medications
A. The principal must have on file an authorization from the students parent for the student to possess and self-administer medication. The authorization must include the three items listed in paragraph B.
B. In addition to the parent’s authorization, the principal must have on file a written statement from the physician indicating that:
1. The student has an acute or chronic disease or medical condition for which the physician has prescribed medication; 2. The student has been instructed in how to self-administer the medication; and
3. The nature of the disease or medical condition requires emergency administration of the medication.
C. The authorization and statement described in paragraphs A and B must be filed with the principal annually.
D. Students having a chronic disease or medical condition may possess and self-administer medication for that disease or condition while on school grounds, traveling to, or attending school events.
IV. Protection of School Personnel
36 A. A school may not require a teacher or other school employee who is not employed as a school nurse or physician to administer medications, drugs, or tests such as injectable insulin or a finger-stick for glucose. A school also may not discipline such a person for refusing to administer medication, drugs or tests without the written consent by the student’s parent/guardian or the written order of a physician/practitioner.
B. If a school employee is not a practitioner or a person licensed under IC ñ 25-23 and the school employee is responsible for administering injectable insulin or a glucose test by finger prick, the employee must obtain from a practitioner or a registered nurse licensed under IC 25-23 the training that the practitioner or registered nurse determines is appropriate for providing the service. Before the school employee provides the service, the school must have on file a written statement from the practitioner or registered nurse that indicates the school employee has received the training described above.
V. Discarding Medications
The parent/guardian is responsible at the end of the treatment regime for removing from the school any unused medication, which was prescribed for his/her child. If the parent does not pick up the medication by the end of the school year, the principal or school nurse will dispose of the medication in an appropriate manner and document that the medication was discarded. Medications should be discarded in the presence of a witness.
VI. Protection from Liability
A. If compliance with II (E) and IV (B) above has occurred, a school administrator, teacher, or other school employee designated by the school administrator, who in good faith administers either:
1. non-prescription medication in compliance with the written permission of the pupil’s parent or guardian, except in the case of a life threatening emergency;
2. a legend drug (as defined in I.C. 16-18-2-199 and including injectable insulin) in compliance with the written order of a practitioner and written permission of the pupil’s parent or guardian, except in the case of a life-threatening emergency;
3. a blood glucose test by finger-stick in compliance with the written order of a practitioner; or
4. any combination of numbers 1 through 3; to a pupil is not liable for civil damages as a result of the administration except for an act or omission amounting to gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct. IC 34-30-14-2.
B. The school is not liable for civil damages as a result of a student’s self administration of medication for an acute or chronic disease or medical condition as described in paragraph III, except for an act or omission amounting to gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.
SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend - Policy 5430
Business and Non-Instructional Operations
Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Effective January 1, 1995, all facilities (buildings which are enclosed) where kindergarten, elementary, and/or secondary education or library services are being provided to children shall be smoke free. No one, whether an administrator, an employee, a student, or a visitor, is allowed to smoke in these buildings while such services are being provided to children.
37 SAFE AND SECURE SCHOOL PLAN
Because we are concerned with the safety and well being of our students, our school and the diocese have prepared a Safe and Secure School Plan which addresses events which may threaten our students. During the school year, we will conduct drills for fire and severe weather as well as lock down drills. In addition, the plan provides for responding to crisis situations, such as identifying evacuation sites and providing support for students, parents, and staff, including counseling services provided through school counselors or counselors on the staff at Catholic Charities.
SECLUSION AND RESTRAINT PLAN
Pursuant to Indiana Code 20-33-8-12(a)(1), effective July 1, 2014 St. Matthew Cathedral School maintains a student Seclusion and Restraint Plan.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips will be scheduled to enrich and reinforce educational goals. Parents will be notified in writing of all field trips in advance of the scheduled trip and will be required to give written consent for each trip. If the parental consent form is not returned by the designated time, the student will be required to remain at school. Whenever possible, students will be transported by school bus; when transported by private car, students will use seat belts, and the driver must provide a copy of his/her license and proof of insurance to the office.
Field trip chaperones MUST have the Safe Environment requirements completed.
Field trips are an important aspect of education. They offer opportunities of learning in a way different than in the classroom. We want to offer many opportunities throughout the students’ education. Unfortunately, field trips cost money. We need to request payment to cover the expenses in order to continue to offer these wonderful opportunities. Students will not be denied attendance to a field trip due to a lack of ability to pay, however requests for exemptions need to be communicated with Sister Gianna Marie via email: [email protected]. Students will be unable to attend a field trip if they have lost the privilege of the field trip due to: 1.) Poor or untrustworthy behavior; 2.) Excessive tardiness or absences; 3.) Poor academic performance and effort; 4.) Parent consent form is not completed; 5.) Parent or administration opts the student out.
Pilgrimages are a physical and spiritual journey made to a sacred place as an act of religious devotion and education. Currently our pilgrimages (spiritually educational field trips) are planned as follows: ♦ Preschool – St. Matthew Cathedral pilgrimage ♦ Kindergarten – Grotto at the Motherhouse ♦ 1st Grade – Church hopping in South Bend ♦ 2nd Grade – Church hopping in Mishawaka & Granger ♦ 3rd Grade – Motherhouse retreat day ♦ 4th Grade – Notre Dame pilgrimage ♦ 5th Grade – The Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John ♦ 6th Grade – Carmelite monastery in Munster – Litany of Loreto Grotto & Stations ♦ 7th Grade – Ft. Wayne Cathedral, Noll Center, & University of St. Francis ♦ 8th Grade – Mundelein seminary & Marytown with St. Maximilan Kolbe museum
All students are welcome to attend field trips and pilgrimages unless they have lost the privilege and/or trust to represent St. Matthew Cathedral School in public and/or confidence of the administration that they will follow the directions of the particular adults in charge.
Parents are welcome to join in the pilgrimage but must provide their own transportation unless otherwise specified.
38 FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Our cost to educate each child is currently $6,200. This amount per child is what we need to collect in order to cover the costs to operate our school. In order to be a healthy, viable school we must depend upon our parents to uphold the commitment they make to pay for their child's education. Please uphold your agreement to pay for your child's education, whatever the financial balance may be. Failure to pay could result in removal of your child from our school. The school has many avenues of assisting with payments and we do not want to deny anyone based solely on finances. Please reach out if assistance is needed in any way.
FACTS Management is a required tuition collection for families. We require all families to be on FACTS Management. We plan to have all incidentals such as athletics, lunch, registration, SCRIP, after-care programs, etc. eventually collected through FACTS. This will allow many benefits for both the school and parish as well as give parents easy access to what has been paid and what is outstanding.
FACTS Grant and Aid must be filled out ONLY if financial assistance is being requested. Full Choice Scholarship recipients are not required to complete this step, although it is preferred.
Registration Fees
The registration fee ($75.00 per student) is due at the time of the annual spring registration. It is non-refundable and is not applied to any other fee. Registration fee moves up to $100 for anyone who misses the spring deadline. Families on Full Choice Scholarship who have their registration fee covered in this voucher will not be covered for the $25 late fee applied when the registration deadline has passed. These families are responsible for all late fees.
Tuition Payment Options
Parents will have three options for paying tuition.
Option #1: One lump sum payment payable in full by June 30 Option #2: Pay half of the total tuition amount on June 30 and November 30 Option #3: Ten monthly payments through automatic deduction
ALL payments must be completed by May 1 regardless of the month one begins. Monthly costs can be divided evenly among remaining months available to pay or a back-pay can be made for missing tuition when one has registered late.
Criteria for Eligibility for Parishioner Tuition Rate
Eligibility for Parishioner Status Tuition Rate will be based on the following criteria:
1. At least one parent must be Catholic.
2. The family must be officially registered as parishioners of St. Matthew Cathedral Parish by June 1 for the upcoming fall semester. An exception will be made for a family moving into the area from out of town if they were active in their previous parish.
3. The family must be recognized as active in the PARISH in the following ways: § Attends Sunday Mass weekly. § Uses offertory envelopes weekly in the collection. § Is freely recognized by one of the priests, pastoral team members, or parish organizations as active in the liturgies and ministries of St. Matthew Cathedral Parish. Possible activity includes, but is not limited to, involvement as a Eucharist Minister, Lector, Choir Member, Liturgical Musician, Holy Name Society, St. Vincent DePaul Society, Usher, Parish Council, Administrative Commissions (Building &
39 Maintenance, Finance Committee, Capital Campaign), etc.
The responsibility for being recognized as active falls on the individual family. Thus, it is important that each family make themselves known to priests, the pastoral team members, and the organizations that serve the parish.
Being active in school activities is expected of all parents. Thus, involvement in the school has no bearing on the parishioner tuition status.
4. Keep current on all school tuition payments and fees.
Tuition parish rate form may be requested from Admissions and granted upon verification by the Pastor.
Student Insurance
A portion of each student’s tuition is for student/athlete insurance coverage. Students have coverage for injuries and accidents that happen during the school day at St. Matthew Cathedral School or during school sponsored activities. Eligible covered expenses will be paid which are in excess of other valid and collectible insurance. Claims should be submitted to the parent’s insurance first.
If an injury occurs, seek medical care through your usual providers. Then contact the school office and obtain the information required to complete the school’s portion of the claim form. The claim form will be sent to the parents, who must complete their portion. Then the parents mail the completed form along with an explanation of benefits and corresponding itemized bills to the address shown on the form. All correspondence after this point should be between the plan administrator and the parents. Completed claim forms must be submitted within 90 days of the date of the injury.
Lunch
Families who are eligible may apply for free or reduced lunches. Application forms and federal guidelines are distributed for free and reduced lunches to all families at the beginning of the year; thereafter, forms may be obtained in the school office.
Other Fees
Any other fees are to be paid in full as they come due.
Non-Payment of Tuition or Fees
Non-payment of tuition will result in non-admittance to the school for the following semester.
Transcripts are not sent to schools unless all fees are paid. Registration in another Catholic school in this diocese, grade or high school, will be denied if fees have not been paid in the previous school.
SCHOOL AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS
School Board
The School Board is an advisory and review body with respect to St. Matthew Cathedral School operating under the rector of St. Matthew Cathedral. School Board by-laws are available on the website.
Home and School Association (HASA)
40 This association is dedicated to keeping all parents of St. Matthew students informed of HASA activities and to promote parental involvement in school programs such as hot lunch, volunteer programs, and any other programs deemed necessary. HASA is also responsible for raising funds to benefit St. Matthew Cathedral School and the welfare of all children at St. Matthew Cathedral School. Meetings are held monthly (please see website calendar).
Each Family must offer 5 service hours to the school. Families who do not will receive a $25.00 fee. Hours can be kept on the HASA form (available at Back-to-School Night and on the website) or recorded at the main office in the Pink Binder. We encourage all families to give at least 10 service hours to our school community in order to help our school community grow in communion and efficiency. Thank you in advance.
Athletic Director
The Athletic Director organizes and manages the school athletic programs under the guidance of school administration. An assistant during school hours will be present to assist as well.
DIOCESAN CONNECTION
In addition to the policies and procedures enumerated in this handbook, St. Matthew Cathedral School adheres to all other officially promulgated diocesan policies and procedures. Copies of the diocesan policies are available for review in the principal’s office. Diocesan policies are granted precedent over any conflicting school policy.
The administration reserves the right to review and interpret these policies, which are also subject to change or revision at the discretion of the school administration and/or diocese.
Expect Excellence
41 Handbook Receipt Acknowledgment
By signing below we acknowledge that we have received a copy of the St. Matthew Cathedral School Handbook for Students and Parents. We understand that the handbook contains important information about the school, its administration, and about the educational and disciplinary policies and procedures that the school maintains in furtherance of its religious mission as part of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Wayne - South Bend.
We agree to follow all rules and guidelines imposed in the school by the school administration and/or diocese. If we have any questions about the content of the handbook, we understand that it is our obligation to ask questions for clarification. This acknowledgment is to be returned to the school after being signed and dated. However, the failure to read the handbook or to sign or return this acknowledgment shall not relieve us of the obligation to follow all rules and guidelines that the school and the diocese establish or in any way impede or prevent the school administration from operating the school consistent with those rules and guidelines.
Student Name Printed Student Signature
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