2017-18 School Handbook
Dear Parents,
For more than two decades, Presbyterian School has cultivated confidence for a generation of critical and creative thinkers. Each and every day, members of our community are guided by the values set forth in this Handbook, focused on the deep and abiding love and respect we have for God, for His creation, and for one another.
“Family, School, and Church united in the education and support of each Child” are central words in the active life of our school. Indeed, as you walk our halls and talk to members of our community, you will see that these words rise above mere rhetoric as they take root in our lives and in our relationships with each other.
The contents of this Handbook should serve as a compass by which we all chart a yearly course to live, learn, play, and grow together in a safe and stimulating school environment. The core values and essential agreements described in these pages are the guiding principles that help us to encourage and nurture not only our students, but all members of our community and, ultimately, our world.
Presbyterian School has staked its reputation on a fierce commitment to its mission and philosophy. Each day charismatic adults among us teach our students to think critically, communicate effectively, and develop their own strengths and talents. We do all of this anchored in the firm belief that by building a community of trust, we can support our young men and women as they begin to “stand up for what they believe and take risks throughout their lives.”
We look forward to working with each and every one of you as we embrace and foster the important mission of our school. Together, we can help our students be prepared to meet the challenges of a changing world with humility, independence, and faith.
Dr. Mark Carleton Headmaster
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Purpose of this Handbook
This handbook is intended to serve as a guide to help students and their families come to know Presbyterian School’s mission and programs as well as to set forth basic expectations and agreements. We encourage parents and students to take the time to familiarize themselves with the contents, and we are hopeful that what is here will answer many questions about academics, security, discipline, school rules, safety, and other topics. Attendance at Presbyterian School is subject to compliance with this handbook. Neither this Handbook, nor any of the policy statements contained in this Handbook, are a contract or create any contractual rights, nor does this Handbook create any expectancy of enrollment in future years.
Parents agree to adhere to and abide by and require their child(ren) to adhere to and abide by the policies and procedures set forth in this Handbook. Any violations of these policies or procedures by parent(s) or student may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years, at the sole discretion of the School.
The School may suspend or dismiss during the school year or decline to re-enroll any student who in effort, conduct, or progress is not fulfilling the School’s expectations. The School also may dismiss or decline to re-enroll any student whose enrollment is deemed by Presbyterian School not to be in the best interests of the School or whose parents are deemed by the School not to support the School’s mission, philosophy, expectations or rules.
At the same time, we know that no set of rules or guidelines can cover every conceivable situation that might arise at a school. The rules, policies, and procedures set forth in this handbook are intended to apply under normal circumstances. However, from time to time, there may be situations that require immediate or nonstandard responses. This handbook does not limit the authority of Presbyterian School to deviate from the normal rules and procedures set forth in this handbook and to deal with individual circumstances as they arise in the manner deemed most appropriate by the School, taking into consideration the best interests of our institution, its faculty, employees, students or overall school community. Additionally, a student’s disciplinary record may be reported to other schools to which the student applies or at which the student enrolls.
These policies may also be revised or updated periodically, even during the school year. You will be advised of any changes as they are made either electronically (email) or by mail. Any student or parent with a question about any handbook material should feel free to speak with the Academic Dean, Division Heads, or the Headmaster.
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SCHOOL HISTORY AND MISSION 7
HISTORY 7 MISSION 7
ALL SCHOOL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES 8
ADMINISTRATION 8 ADMISSION 8 ALLERGENS AT SCHOOL 8 ATTENDANCE 8 AUXILIARY PROGRAMS 8 BEHAVIOR 9 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 9 BOOKS AND SUPPLIES 9 CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES 9 COMMUNICATION 10 CONTACTING TEACHERS 10 DIVERSITY OF LEARNERS 10 DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE CAMPUS 10 ELEVATOR USE 11 EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL 11 FAMILY MATTERS 11 FAMILY-SCHOOL COOPERATION 12 FIELD TRIPS 12 FINANCIAL AID 12 GIFT GIVING 12 HEALTH INFORMATION 12 LIBRARY MATERIALS 14 LOST AND FOUND 14 MEDICAL EXCUSES FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASS 14 MEMBERSHIPS AND ACCREDITATIONS 15 NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY 15 OUT-OF-SCHOOL CONDUCT 15 PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES 15 PARTY/SOCIAL INVITATIONS 15 PERSONAL BELONGINGS 16 PET POLICY 16 PHILANTHROPY OFFICE 16 PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES 16 POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION 16 PRAYER 17 PS VOLUNTEER COUNCIL 17 RE-ENROLLMENT CONTRACTS AND HOLDS 17 RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY 18 SCHOOL CORE VALUES 18 SCHOOL MASCOT 18 SCHOOL MOTTO 18 SCHOOL SONG 18 SEARCHES 19 SECURITY GUIDELINES 19 SOCIAL MEDIA 20 STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE 20
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STUDENT INFORMATION 21 STUDENT TELEPHONE USAGE 21 TEACHER OBSERVATION OR RECOMMENDATION FORMS 21 TRAFFIC AND PARKING 21 TRANSCRIPTS 23 TUITION AND BILLING 23 TUITION REFUND INSURANCE 24 TUTORING 24 UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE 24 VISION AND HEARING 24 WIRELESS NETWORK ACCESS 25 YEARBOOK 25
EARLY CHILDHOOD AND LOWER SCHOOL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES 26
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT TEAM (AET) 26 ARRIVAL 26 ASSEMBLIES 27 ATTENDANCE 27 BACKPACK POLICY 27 BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS 27 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 27 CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES 28 CHAPEL 28 DISMISSAL AND DEPARTURE FROM SCHOOL 28 GRADING AND ASSESSMENT 29 HOMEWORK 29 LUNCH AND SNACKS 29 TOILET TRAINING 30 UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE 30
MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES 32
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT TEAM (AET) 32 ADVISORY PROGRAM 32 ARRIVAL & ATTENDANCE 33 ASSEMBLIES 33 ATHLETICS 34 BACKPACK & GYM BAG POLICY 35 BIANNUAL COMMENTS ON STUDENT PERFORMANCE 35 BICYCLE AND WALK TO SCHOOL POLICY 35 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 36 CHAPEL 36 CLASS TRIPS & OUTDOOR EDUCATION 36 COMMUNICATION 37 COMMUNITY STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL 37 DISMISSAL AND DEPARTURE FROM SCHOOL 41 EARLY DEPARTURE FROM SCHOOL 42 EXAMS 42 GRADING & ASSESSMENT 42 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS 44 HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELING 45
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HOMEWORK 45 LOCKERS 46 LUNCH 46 SNACKS AND FOOD AT SCHOOL 46 UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE 46
APPENDIX A: TECHNOLOGY POLICIES 50
LOWER SCHOOL E-READER POLICY 51 LOWER SCHOOL RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY 52 MIDDLE SCHOOL RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY 53 STUDENT IPAD USE CONTRACT 54
APPENDIX B: MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSESSMENT RUBRICS 56
FINE ARTS RUBRIC 56 P.E. RUBRIC 57
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School History and Mission
History In 1986, Dr. John William Lancaster, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, appointed a School Study Committee to explore the feasibility of an Early Childhood and Lower School at the church. Presbyterian School was officially founded in 1988 and opened its doors to offer a distinct educational program for families in the Houston area in the Fall of 1989.
The School was founded on the vision that Family, School and Church should work together to educate and support children and their families. Most importantly, the School has always sought to kindle and nourish a love of learning in its students and to help them find new ways to discover their talents and use their potential to its fullest.
In 1997, the School's Board of Trustees approved planning for a Middle School, and construction on the Lancaster Center, named for the Church’s now Pastor Emeritus began in 1998. In August 2000 the Middle School opened with 60 students in fifth and sixth grades, and in June 2003, the first class of eighth grade students graduated from Presbyterian School.
As the School continued to grow, the need for additional green space soon became apparent. In 2005 a 14-acre property located off Loop 610 South on Highway 288 was purchased in order to become the School’s Outdoor Education Campus (OEC), which was dedicated in May 2008.
Graduates of Presbyterian School are excelling in Houston's finest high schools and America’s most prestigious colleges. More significantly, Presbyterian School students are good people and good citizens, interested in the world around them and eager to become leaders in it.
Mission Family, School and Church united in the education and support of each Child is the founding premise upon which Presbyterian School continues to nurture and challenge its students. Dedicated to strengthening the lives of children and their families, the School provides an educational program of the highest quality in a Christian environment. Students are respected and treated as individuals of worth, while being encouraged to develop a sense of responsibility in relation to God, to themselves, to others, to their environment and to the world in which they live.
At Presbyterian School, children are given the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential— intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually—in a supportive yet challenging environment. The School’s curriculum is developmentally appropriate, respecting the individual learning styles and capabilities of each child.
Parents are vital to the success of their children’s lives of learning, and Presbyterian School views education as an undertaking that should be embraced by parents and school together. The School, therefore, provides a parent education program that is designed with a Christian perspective to help adults successfully meet the challenges, responsibilities and joys of parenting.
Children of all races, ethnic groups and religious backgrounds are welcome at the School. In this Christian environment, all are respected and encouraged to develop their spiritual identity as well as their belief in God’s unconditional love for all.
We are a school that believes in the clarity of our mission, identity, and vision and that who we are and what we do is captured succinctly and purposefully in the phrase: Confidence in every Child. Our students will come to anticipate—even welcome—the next challenge with energy, acuity, and confidence. Along the way each will come to appreciate that, by accepting the challenges of going too far—to paraphrase T.S. Eliot—one discovers how very far one can go.
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All School Policies and Guidelines
Administration The Board of Trustees hires one employee, the Headmaster, who in turn is responsible for all aspects of school life, including but not limited to the educational program, extracurricular activities, fund-raising, external relations, admissions, personnel and finances. Reporting to the Headmaster are the Division Heads and Academic Dean who manage programs relating to students, teachers, curriculum and instruction. Also reporting to the Headmaster are the Assistant Head for Finance & Operations, Head of Advancement, Director of Admission, Director of Communications, Director of Athletics, Director of Physical Education & Wellness, Director of Fine Arts, Chaplain, Director of Technology Officer and Executive Assistant to the Headmaster.
Admission The Admission Office strives to make a good fit between the applicant and Presbyterian School. Decisions for admission to Presbyterian School are based upon a child's school visits and various admissions testing, the teacher recommendation form(s) and the child's transcripts, if applicable. The deadline for sibling applications is November 27, 2017. The deadline for general applications is January 8, 2018. Decisions regarding a student's application to Presbyterian School will be mailed in March. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, religion, national ethnic origin or any other class protected by local, state or federal law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school administered programs.
Allergens at School Presbyterian School strives to be an allergen-sensitive school. If a student has a severe allergy, it must be documented with the School nurse via a doctor’s written report and the School’s Allergy Action Plan Form distributed and collected by Magnus. Each year the school nurse will update classroom communities on allergens present in the classroom as needed.
Attendance At the heart of a Presbyterian School education is the classroom experience. Therefore, consistent, punctual attendance is essential and indicative of student/family commitment to the School’s programs and philosophy. We ask that parents support the academic well-being of their children by planning family travel during school vacation days. If extraordinary circumstances prevail and a family absence is imperative, parents should present their situation to the Division Head. Excessive tardiness or absences of any nature may jeopardize a student’s current enrollment, the promotion of a student to the next grade or renewal of the student’s enrollment contract for future academic years. Please note that absences and tardiness are part of a student’s official record and are reported on the transcript.
Auxiliary Programs Before School PS+ is offered daily from 7:15 a.m. – 7:55 a.m. for Prekindergarten-8th grade students. Students attending Before School PS+ must be escorted to the mini-gym and signed in by a parent or middle school sibling. After School PS + is offered daily from 3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. for Beta-8th grade students. The cost of Before and After School PS+ is included in tuition.
Extended Care is offered daily from 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. for Prekindergarten-8th grade students. Extended Care is a daily flat fee of $15. All students must be picked up before 6:00 p.m. If a child is not picked up by 6:00 p.m., a late pick up charge of $1.00 per minute thereafter will be assessed.
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There is no PS+ and Extended Care on school holidays, faculty in-service days or parent- teacher conference days. There is no after school PS+ and Extended Care on early dismissal days, two days before Christmas break, or on Commencement Day.
After School Classes are offered after school at the Presbyterian campus. In order to participate in a class, students must be registered in advance. Registration includes sign-up and submitting payment for the after school class. Sign-up for classes is on a first come, first serve basis and is done online. Sign-up includes waitlist spaces. It is possible that we may pull students off of the waitlist. If you are interested in a class but it is full, please put your name on the waitlist. Additional fees apply for after school classes. For more information on after school classes, please visit www.pshouston.org/afterschool.
Behavior Any actions by students or parents that reflect poorly on the School, may harm the School’s reputation, or negatively impact other members of the School community may result in, at the sole discretion of the School, disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of a student’s enrollment contract for future academic years.
Board of Trustees Presbyterian School is governed by a Board of Trustees responsible for hiring, evaluating, supervising, and supporting the Headmaster; establishing the School’s policies; developing and overseeing the implementation and monitoring of the long-range strategic plan; overseeing the School’s budget and financial planning; and securing the resources needed to ensure the School’s financial health. Trustees are nominated, oriented and evaluated by members of the Board’s Committee on Trustees. The following individuals will serve as trustees for the 2017-18 year:
Dorian Benn Sharon Henry Kerry Sandberg Brady Carruth Joe Karlgaard, Secretary Chandler Sulton Michael Casey William Lee Patrick Trask Chris Champion Nelson Mabry Carlton Wilde Kim Clark, Chairman Adam Peakes Marilyn Winters Catherine Crain Taylor Reid, Vice Chair Martha Erwin Kelli Rhee Ex-Officio Members Jonas Georgsson Jenn Rustay Dr. Jim Birchfield, FPC Pastor Dr. Mark Carleton, Headmaster
Books and Supplies All textbooks and standard school supplies are provided by the School. Students are expected to use the materials stipulated by the faculty. Middle School textbooks are signed out from the library for the year using the bar code on the textbook and the bar code for each student’s library account. The books are signed back into the library at the end of the school year using the same bar code system. Fines may be assessed for damaged books. The cost of lost or damaged books will be billed to the family and report cards will be held until the costs are reimbursed.
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices Cell phones and electronic devices may NOT be brought to school by Beta-5th grade students. The sole exceptions to this policy are 5th grade iPads and the privilege of using e-Readers for 2nd-4th grade students for reading only. Please note that only devices specifically designed as e-Readers (Kindles, Nooks, etc.) are permitted for this privilege. Students may only use e-Readers for reading books previously downloaded to the device (not for surfing the internet, listening to music, watching videos, etc.). Students who would like the privilege of bringing e-Readers to school must have parent permission and must abide
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6th-8th grade students do not need to bring cell phones to school; however, with increased participation in after- school activities and the need to communicate after school, students in grades 6, 7, and 8 are allowed to bring a cell phone to school. There is no use of cell phones on campus. Cell phones must remain turned off and in a bag (backpack or bag for after school activities) during the academic day or until all school-related activities are over. If a student has his/her phone out at any point during the academic day, it will be confiscated and turned in to the Middle School Office. Only a parent may retrieve the phone. Please note the student who brings a phone to school assumes all responsibility and risks damage, theft or loss of the cell phone.
The School reserves the right to search and inspect personal electronic devices that are brought to campus as well as any data, messages or imagery contained on them.
Communication Presbyterian School is committed to open and frequent communication between school and home. The most up-to-date information about Presbyterian School and our events may be found on the School’s website at www.pshouston.org and in the School’s online calendars, which may be accessed through the EVENTS link at the bottom of the School’s homepage. Please refer to these online resources for the timeliest communication. If you are not receiving school communication early in the year on a frequent basis, please check with the Registrar to make sure that you are on all distribution lists. If parents are living apart, make sure both parents are on the lists.
Parent email addresses are given to Presbyterian School for educational and school-related purposes only. Presbyterian School does not condone the use of parent email addresses for any other purpose. Parents are respectfully asked to refrain from using parent, faculty and staff email addresses published in the School directory for commercial, business or philanthropic purposes.
Contacting Teachers Faculty members are the professionals who have the most complete information regarding the daily life of students at Presbyterian School. When a concern arises, parents should approach their student’s teacher. Parents who wish to contact a teacher should use the teacher’s school e-mail address (available on the School’s website). Parents are to schedule a visit rather than to drop in unannounced. All communication of an urgent nature should be directed to the teachers through the School office. To reach the Early Childhood/Lower School office, please call 713-620-6349. To reach the Middle School office, please call 713-620-6348. If an issue requires further attention, parents should contact the Division Head.
Diversity of Learners Presbyterian School is committed to a diverse community, which includes qualified students with documented learning disabilities and other health issues that may require reasonable accommodations to ensure access to education and/or recreation. Although the School cannot offer special education programs for students with disabilities, it is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified students so that such students can participate in the School’s programs.
The School does not and will not modify curriculum for students who are not able to meet and fulfill the fundamental requirements of the School’s educational program.
Drug and Alcohol Free Campus
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Presbyterian School will proactively educate students about the risks and dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use through its curriculum and co-curricular programs.
Students are expected to be completely drug, alcohol and tobacco, including e-cigarettes, free while enrolled at Presbyterian School. Misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication, “synthetic,” “designer,” or “look-alike” drugs or substances, household cleaners, and aerosol propellants is also prohibited. For purposes of this handbook, the term “drug” includes all of the aforementioned items. A student consuming, buying, selling, in possession of, or under the influence of such substances, drugs, tobacco, including e-cigarettes, or alcohol is subject to disciplinary action up to and including immediate dismissal from the School. The School will fulfill its reporting obligations regarding such behavior and cooperate with the authorities in any investigation of such behavior.
Student presence during the use and/or possession of alcohol, drugs, tobacco or any illegal substance by other students is also prohibited.
Any violation of this policy, including violations during non-school time and/or off school premises, may subject a student to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal for future academic years. Presbyterian School reserves the right to require drug and/or alcohol testing, substance abuse counseling, or other counseling or education for the offending student.
In support of its education of students about the dangers of drug and alcohol use and abuse, Presbyterian School prohibits the possession, distribution, or consumption of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, or drugs by parents, faculty, or administration on the Main Street campus or at any event where students are present.
Elevator Use The elevators on campus are not for student use unless medically necessary. In the event of a student’s physical limitation, parents should contact the School office for instructions.
Emergency Closing of School In the event of any emergency school closing, including those due to inclement weather, all families will be contacted by the School at their home and cell phone numbers as well as email addresses. The most up-to-date information related to school closings may also be found on the School’s website at www.pshouston.org.
Family Matters All parents (married, unmarried, divorced or separated) cooperate with one another in the best interests of their child’s education at the school. Failure of parents to cooperate with one another in such a manner may lead to dismissal of their child(ren) from the school or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years. The school may at any time require parents to seek a court order pertaining to any school matter as a condition of continued enrollment.
In the event your family has a court order in place, please provide the school with a complete and official file-stamped copy of the current court order for your child(rens’) files. We expect parents and guardians to abide by any court order applicable to your child. If a situation arises in which the custody or possession of a child is in question, a school representative will call 911 and request an officer arrive at the school to resolve the dispute.
If a school employee or trustee is required to testify, provide information for, or otherwise participate in a legal dispute or proceeding to which the school is not a party, the school shall be entitled to recover from, at the school’s discretion, either or both parents, the school’s attorneys’ fees and costs incurred with such
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As a condition of enrollment, all students must live with and be in the care, custody and control of a parent or legal guardian (as established by a court of law). Any exception to this rule must be in writing from the Headmaster.
Family-School Cooperation Family-School cooperation is vital to both the effectiveness of the educational programs and the health and well-being of the School community. In rare instances, parental interaction, attitude or behavior is contrary to the mission or best interests of the School. When this occurs, Presbyterian School reserves the right, at the discretion of the Headmaster, to terminate the enrollment of a student whose parents are unwilling to cooperate with the School or support its mission.
Field Trips As an extension to learning in the classrooms, age appropriate field trips are planned throughout the school year. Every student must have a signed General Release Form on file to leave the School campus. The General Release Form is distributed and collected with re-enrollment contracts. The faculty will provide instructions regarding mandatory attire prior to each field trip. The School will provide student transportation to and from all field trips. Parents, faculty and staff may not transport students to or from field trips. Volunteers who have supervisory responsibility for students will undergo a background check each year.
Financial Aid Prekindergarten-8th Grade students are eligible for financial aid, and the School makes every effort to help families with a demonstrated need, including those with a temporary financial hardship. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its financial aid. Aid is based on need, evidenced by the Federal Tax Form 1040, which is submitted to FAST. All deliberations regarding tuition assistance and financial aid are held in the strictest confidence. Contact the Admission Office for more information on financial aid. The deadline for financial aid applications for the 2018-2019 academic year is February 6, 2018.
Gift Giving Presbyterian School strives to teach children the value of gifts of the spirit, and we hope families will use gift-giving occasions to deepen this lesson. Please be mindful that while the School may be the most convenient place to share a gift with a classmate at Christmas or on a birthday, it is not the most appropriate place since such an exchange may result in hurt feelings, jealousy, or unnecessary comparisons. When parents or children wish to honor or express appreciation to a faculty member, we ask that they do so in a modest and considerate way in keeping with our core value of respect.
Health Information Health Forms and Immunizations: Upon enrollment, parents will be required to provide a current record of all state required immunizations. If a family has a medical or conscientious objection exemption from the immunization requirements, the notarized conscientious objection form or the medical exemption from the student’s licensed, treating physician, must be filed with the school prior to the first day of school. If an outbreak or a suspected outbreak of any vaccine preventable disease occurs, any student who for whatever reason is not immunized, will be excluded from school and all school-related activities.
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In addition, all Middle-School athletes must have a yearly physical exam form on file in order to participate in after-school sports. The physical exam must be turned in before the first day of practice without exception. Students without the required health records on file will not be allowed to attend classes or participate in Athletics. Please contact the School Nurse for any clarifications or questions.
Illness or Injury at School: Please discuss any student health problems, including injury or illness, whether chronic or temporary with the School nurse and your child’s teacher. Any student who becomes ill or is injured at school will be evaluated and treated. Any head injury or fever will be reported to the School nurse. Parents will be contacted to pick up students who in the judgment of the School nurse are too ill to remain at school. Please make sure the School has all requested medical information as well as the names and phone numbers of those to be contacted in case of an emergency.
The school carries student accident insurance on every single student in the school. This covers any injury or accident to any student occurring on school property, or during school hours at any school event. This is secondary insurance, meaning the parents' or the child's personal insurance coverage is primary. The school's Insurance carries $100 deductible and is a basic 80/20 plan. For a more detailed description of the policy’s coverage and requirements or to make a claim under the policy, please contact Jan Whitehead. Claims under the policy may, among other things, be time limited, so families are responsible for contacting Jan Whitehead immediately after an incident occurs.
Medications: If a student is required to take any prescription or non-prescription medication during school hours, it must be left with the nurse. Medication will be administered in the School Health Clinic. Medications must be placed in the original container or prescription bottle and brought to the School by a parent or guardian. Students are not allowed to transport medication to or from the Health Clinic. All medications are kept in the Health Clinic. Parents are responsible for updating the clinic of any changes in a student’s need for prescription medication. Parents are also responsible for insuring the nurse has an adequate supply of medication that is not expired. All prescription medication should be documented on the Vital Health Record distributed and collected by Magnus.
All medication must be kept in the Health Clinic unless a student’s treating physician provides documentation that the student must keep the medication with him/her at all times (such as asthma inhalers and epi-pens). In such cases, new documentation must be provided at the beginning of each school year and any time an update is required as a result of a change in the student’s medical needs.
Homeopathic/Herbal Remedies and Foreign Medications: The Health Clinic will not dispense any non-FDA approved substance including, but not limited to, natural or homeopathic supplements. Medications prescribed or purchased outside the United States will not be administered by the School nurse or school employees due to regulatory discrepancies between the United States and other countries.
Health Guidelines for School Attendance: Please keep your child at home when the following symptoms are observed: • Fever (100° F), Vomiting or Diarrhea within the past 24 hours • Earache, constant cough, sore throat and/or runny nose
Communicable Diseases: Please notify the School office immediately if your child is diagnosed with a communicable disease such as chicken pox, strep throat, head lice, Fifth disease, or mumps. In the event a child contracts a contagious disease, a physician’s statement may be required before the child will be readmitted to class at the discretion of the School nurse. The following chart is supplied by the Texas Department of Health.
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Communicable Diseases Incubation Readmission to School Periods Chicken Pox 10-21 days 7 days from onset of rash or until all blisters crusted over Impetigo variable 3-7 days when treatment has begun Measles (rubeola) 7-14 days 5 days from onset of rash German Measles 14-21 days 8 days from onset of rash Mumps 1-26 days 10 days from onset of swelling Conjunctivitis (pink eye) 1-3 days physician states that the person is non-infectious Ringworm of scalp 10-21 days when treatment has begun Head Lice 7-10 days when medicated shampoo or lotion treatment is given and clearance from nurse Fever 100° F or greater 24 hours after fever subsides Fifth Disease 6-14 days 24 hours after fever subsides Common Cold 1-3 days 24 hours after fever subsides Strep Throat 1-3 days after 24 hour antibiotic treatment
Concussion Management Policy: Due to the inevitability of head injuries that may occur in sports or at play, Presbyterian School has a concussion policy to ensure the optimal safety of our students. The Return to Play protocol will be followed by student athletes, their parents and coaches. Both the Concussion Management Policy and the Return to Play Policy may be found on the School website Parent Portal under the Forms tab. Presbyterian School reserves the right to keep a student out of practice/games if post-concussion signs and symptoms are noted in the student, even if written medical permission is obtained.
Lice Policy: If a child is discovered with symptoms of lice, the School Nurse will assess the child. If nits or live lice are present, the child will be sent home to receive the appropriate shampoo treatment. Once the treatment has been administered, the child may return to school. Before returning your child to the classroom, please visit the nurse to receive clearance.
Library Materials All library materials need to be returned by mid-May in order to complete inventory. End of year report cards will be withheld until all library materials are returned to the School or the appropriate reimbursement is paid. The cost of lost or damaged books will be billed to the family.
Lost and Found All school uniforms must be labeled with the student’s full name in permanent ink (please refrain from using initials). EC/LS Lost and Found for student items, such as eyeglasses, jackets, and lunch boxes is located in the Welcome Center. MS Lost and Found for student items is located in the Middle School office area. There is also a Lost and Found in the P.E. area. If you find an item that does not belong to you or if you are missing an item, please check the lost and found either before or after school.
Medical Excuses from Physical Education Class In order for a student to be medically excused from PE class for more than three consecutive days, a note from the student’s physician must be given to the School nurse. The nurse will then notify the PE faculty and the classroom teacher. The school, at its discretion, may also require a note from the student’s physician clearing the child to return to PE class. If a student is going to be excused from PE Class for less than 3 days, parents need to send a written note to the PE teachers.
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Memberships and Accreditations Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Educational Records Bureau (ERB) Elementary School Heads’ Association (ESHA) Houston Area Independent Schools (HAIS) Independent School Management (ISM) School Office Services (SOS)
Nondiscrimination Policy The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (gender), national origin, sexual orientation, or any other class protected by local, state, or federal law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid, other school administered programs or in its employment practices. The School believes in the strength of a diverse community and welcomes inquiry from all families.
Out-of-School Conduct Parents and students should be aware that certain activities, even outside of school hours or off school property, may result in loss of school privileges and other disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years. Any behavior that has an effect on the discipline or general welfare of the School or its community, even if such conduct takes place off campus, during non-school hours, or on breaks from school may result in disciplinary action being taken by the School.
Such conduct will be evaluated at the sole discretion of the School, and the School reserves the right to deviate from the regular disciplinary process as may be deemed necessary under the circumstances. Some examples of such outside conduct that may have disciplinary ramifications at school include any violation of law; purchase, use, or possession of alcohol, drugs, or a controlled substance; threats of harm to self or others; use or misuse of electronic devices, websites, or social networking media (personal, at home, or at school), which do, or could, impact the welfare of any member of the School community or the reputation or functioning of the School.
Parent Teacher Conferences Parent/Teacher conferences will be scheduled twice during the school year for all students. Early Childhood and Lower School students do not come to school on the days scheduled for conferences. In the Middle School, students participate in parent/teacher conferences; therefore, they must come to school along with their parents at the scheduled time of the conference. Parents do not need to wait for an official conference time to speak with teachers about a child’s progress. If you have a question or a concern, please contact the teacher directly. Additional conferences may be arranged at any time during the school year if either the teacher or parent deems it necessary. Parents should contact the teacher for an appointment at school during the teacher’s non-instructional time.
Party/Social Invitations Birthday party invitations and presents may not be brought to school. For the well-being of our community and each child within it, parents are asked to adhere to the following guideline regarding
- 15 - ALL SCHOOL private social events; when inviting one-half or more of all the students (or girls or boys), all of the students (or girls or boys) should be invited.
Personal Belongings All toys and personal belongings should be left at home. “Lovies” for Early Childhood students are acceptable, but they must stay in the child’s cubby during the school day.
All student belongings, including uniform items, lunch bags, book bags, jackets worn to and from school in cold weather, etc. must be labeled with the student’s name (please refrain from using initials). With so many identical and similar items in the possession of students, costly losses can be avoided by taking this precaution at the beginning of the school year.
Pet Policy Family pets and animals are not allowed in the building on the main campus or at the Outdoor Education Campus.
Philanthropy Office In addition to tuition income, Presbyterian School relies on philanthropy through the Annual Fund and other special event fundraising activities to support operating and capital expenses. The Philanthropy Office at Presbyterian School coordinates all philanthropic, volunteer and alumni initiatives.
Parents, grandparents, Trustees, faculty, staff, foundations, and friends of Presbyterian School are invited to consider ways to support Presbyterian School. More detailed information regarding fundraising opportunities is on the School website (www.pshouston.org/SupportPS).
We adhere to the NAIS Principles of Good Practice and the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice. The Advancement Office of Presbyterian School is located at 1 Pinedale.
Playground Guidelines Students may play on the playgrounds in the afternoons after school, provided they have adult supervision. Parents and caregivers should follow playground guidelines used by the classroom teachers and observe all posted Playground rules when children are playing on the playground. The guidelines are as follows: • Children must remain inside the gated areas with the gates closed and be closely supervised. • Children should swing straight in swings; no twisting, standing or spinning. Only one person per swing. • No more than three users may be on the oodle swing at a time. All other students must remain six feet away from the oodle swing when it is in use. • Children should not climb the outside or sides of the playground equipment. • Children should stay away from equipment and swings when playing running games. • One person on each slide at a time, except for the double slide which should have one person on each side. • All trash should be disposed of in trash cans.
Positive Relationships and Conflict Resolution At the heart of Presbyterian School’s mission is the belief that individuals in the three most critical institutions in the lives of children (family, church, and school) can work together to educate and support
- 16 - ALL SCHOOL our young people. For us at Presbyterian School, there is no better model for positive, uplifting relationships than the one Christ exemplifies in the Scriptures. Every member of our community is challenged to exemplify Christ in our dealings with each other whether we are on the School grounds or not.
Despite their best intentions, students will fall short in their treatment of each other from time to time, resulting in hurt feelings, alienation, or distress. Isolated and momentary lapses in judgment are one issue; systematic and targeted hurtful actions are quite another. There is no place at Presbyterian School for these sorts of behaviors, and they will not be tolerated here.
Verbal or physical harassment of any kind that occurs face-to-face at school, off-campus, or in cyberspace that is unkind to a fellow Presbyterian School student or community member is unacceptable and inconsistent with the requirements of our school and our core values.
Presbyterian School strives to preserve the dignity of each of its members. When situations involving student harassment come to the attention of teachers or administrators, they are addressed promptly and will be handled in a pastoral manner, allowing for both the support of the harassed student as well as counseling for the transgressor. To that end, reconciliation will be the goal in working through such conflicts. By encouraging direct, supervised communication among the students involved, we strive to help students seek the good in everyone just as we attempt to encourage their individual growth in learning how to resolve their own conflicts.
Any student who believes that he/she has been the victim of the behaviors described above or any student who believes that he/she has witnessed these actions, shall report the incident(s) to a teacher, advisor, or coach; Division Head; Dean of Students; Chaplain; Nurse; Academic Dean; or the Headmaster. Any student found to have engaged in intentionally hurtful behavior shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions.
Presbyterian School requires that adults in the community maintain appropriate and professional boundaries with students at all times. If a student or parent has any concern about an adult’s interaction with a student(s), the student or parent should immediately contact a Division Head or the Headmaster.
Prayer A blessing is said before snack every day in Early Childhood classes. Lower School and Middle School students have the opportunity to participate in prayers in the classroom, in Assembly, before lunch, in Chapel and in other community gatherings.
PS Volunteer Council The PS Volunteer Council is composed of parents who help the School live the mission of Family, School and Church united. All parents are welcome to be a part of the PS Volunteer Council. The Volunteer Council supports the School and its families by volunteering at special events and school services throughout the year. Book Fair, Christmas Workshop, Field Day, Hearing and Vision Screening, Faculty Appreciation and Homeroom Parents are just a few of the activities supported by the PS Volunteer Council. Parents who volunteer for school-related activities may also be required to undergo a background check depending upon the nature of their service to the School. A comprehensive list of activities and contacts are found on the School website Parent Portal under the Volunteer Info tab.
Re-enrollment Contracts and Holds Re-enrollment contracts are issued at the sole discretion of the School and generally at the end of January. If academic, behavioral or financial concerns exist regarding a student when the School issues re-
- 17 - ALL SCHOOL enrollment contracts for the next year, a student’s re-enrollment contract may be held or not offered. The Division Head will meet with the student’s parents to discuss the situation and outline mutual responsibilities for supporting the student during the remaining months of the academic year. In some instances, serious concerns regarding a student’s grade level placement or permanence in the School may arise after the re-enrollment contract has been issued. At that time, the Division Head and/or Headmaster will arrange a conference with parents to determine whether re-enrollment is in the best interests of the child and the School.
Responsible Use of Technology Each family is responsible for their student’s actions in accessing Presbyterian School’s technology resources. Parents and students must review and sign the Responsible Use Policy distributed by Magnus prior to the student accessing any of the School’s technology resources. A copy of this policy is located in Appendix A of this handbook.
School Core Values We look at our core values through a window because core values are a reflection of who we are and what we believe. The foundation for our core values is built upon the simple objective of Reflecting God's Love. Our six core values are Respect, Perseverance, Courage, Compassion, Integrity and Gratitude.
Respect: It’s about you and me. (I Peter 2:17) Perseverance: It’s about staying in the game. (James 1:3) Courage: It’s about daring to try. (Ezra 10:4) Compassion: It’s about showing your love. (Ephesians 4:32) Integrity: It’s about being the best possible me. (Proverbs 20:11) Gratitude: It’s about appreciating today. (Psalm 118:24)
School Mascot
School Motto “As Children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other and the environment.”
School Song The Spirit Is Here Written by former PS Music Teacher, Kay Fish
The Spirit is here. The Spirit is here. Where two or more are gathered I too will be there. Just look in this place, into each and every face, The Spirit, the Spirit is here.
The Spirit of love, the Spirit of life, The Spirit of hope that will see us through the strife, The Spirit of faith that time can’t erase, The Spirit, the Spirit is here.
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The Spirit of learning that will help us to know, The Spirit of giving that will help us to grow, The Spirit that shows us the way we should go, The Spirit, the Spirit is here.
The Spirit is here. The Spirit is here. Where two or more are gathered I too will be there. Just look in this place, into each and every face, The Spirit, the Spirit is here.
Searches In accordance with the School’s ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with our rules and to maintain a substance-free and safe school environment, the School may choose to conduct a random search of any area of the School premises, including student lockers, as well as any item of a student’s personal belongings or items, including electronic devices and their contents, in a student’s possession at any time and without prior notice.
Security Guidelines In order to provide a safe campus for all who work, learn and volunteer at Presbyterian School, please keep in mind the following guidelines: • People requesting a tour of the facilities must have an appointment and must be escorted by a staff member during normal weekday office hours. • Utilize primary entrances into the facility-Welcome Center and Lancaster Center Palm Court. • Vehicles should not be left unattended under the porte cocheres at the Welcome Center, Christian Education, Lancaster Center Palm Court and Lancaster Center North entrances. • All visitors and parents arriving to campus between 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. (except during regular morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times) will be required to sign-in at the Welcome Center or Lancaster Center Palm Court entrances. Our sign-in system utilizes Raptor Visitor Management Program, which performs a standard security check and will provide a badge for visitors and parents to wear. • When inviting an unfamiliar person to campus, instruct them on where to park, what entrance to utilize (Welcome Center or Lancaster Center Palm Court) and what the procedures are once they are in the building. • Two uniformed police officers will join the security guards on campus to provide additional security for the School. • Please do not leave any personal belongings of value (i.e., cell phone, purse, laptop, etc.) in your vehicle. • All faculty and staff, including volunteer staff, are required to undergo regular background checks. Parents who volunteer for school-related activities may also be required to undergo a background check depending upon the nature of their service to the School. • Presbyterian School may conduct monitoring to help ensure employee and student safety and security, including video surveillance of non-private areas to identify safety concerns, maintain security, detect theft and misconduct, and discourage and prevent acts of harassment and violence. • Firearms, guns, explosives, knives, and other weapons are prohibited on campus, including in all buildings and on driveways, streets, sidewalks or walkways, parking lots, parking garages, or other parking areas. Firearms and guns are also prohibited from being in locked vehicles or trunks while parked or driving on campus. Students shall not interfere with normal activities, occupancy or use of any building or portion of the campus by exhibiting, using or threatening to exhibit or use a firearm, gun, explosive, knife or other weapon.
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• Students may not be picked up or dropped off by ride-booking car services such as Uber, Lyft, and other similar car services on or near campus. If an adult on campus would like to use one of these car services, he or she must inform a security guard on duty that such car service is coming and meet the driver at the Palm Court or Welcome Center entrance. • Students may not have food, drinks or other items delivered to or near campus by for hire delivery services such as Favor, DoorDash or other similar services. If an adult on campus would like to use one of these services, he or she must first get permission from the Head of School or a Division Head, inform a security guard on duty that such delivery service is coming, and meet the driver at the Palm Court or Welcome Center entrance.
Social Media At Presbyterian School we believe very strongly that pre-adolescents and young adolescents are ill equipped and developmentally unable to manage independently the complexity of communication in the social media realm. Accordingly, social media is not to be installed on student iPads and students are not to engage in social media exchanges while on the PS campus. The School may also block access on the School’s network to social media or any other content the School deems inappropriate. For these reasons, we also prohibit students from using their school email accounts for social media purposes.
We advise very strongly against parents allowing their children to subscribe to or participate unsupervised in any of the wide array of social media networking available through an equally wide array of media. Since subscriptions to and participation in these sites are ultimately family decisions, we acknowledge that inappropriate electronic communication originating off campus or associated with social networking is best dealt with initially in the family setting. When parents become aware of objectionable or threatening statements via their child’s social networking sites, they are to contact first the parents of the other student(s) involved prior to contacting the School. (See also, Out-of-School Conduct.)
The School is not responsible for any material (photographs, videos, audio recordings) posted on personal websites or social media sites or transmitted through other electronic means such as text messaging or photo sharing websites without its permission. However, if families choose to use social media, please apply the following guidelines:
• Use a respectful tone and appropriate language when making social media posts or messages involving or about the School or other members of the Presbyterian School community.
• When posting pictures, videos or audio recordings from Presbyterian School events, use security settings and allow only family and other Presbyterian School community members access.
• Avoid using names of students appearing in social media posts or messages and only use first names of adults.
• Do not use the School's logo or other intellectual property without prior written permission from the School's Communications Office. Similarly, do not purport to speak on behalf of the School or mislead others into believing you speak with authority from the School unless you have prior written permission from the School's Communications Office.
The School will from time to time review social media posts and messages made by Presbyterian School community members and take action on any information learned from those reviews. Inappropriate use of social media, including bullying, or violations of other school policies learned about via social media will be handled through the School's disciplinary procedure set forth in the Parent Student Handbook and can result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of a student’s enrollment contract for future academic years. Student Accident Insurance
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The school carries student accident insurance on every single student in the school. This covers any injury or accident to any student occurring on school property, or during school hours at any school event. This is secondary insurance, meaning the parents' or the child's personal insurance coverage is primary. The school's Insurance carries $100 deductible and is a basic 80/20 plan. For a more detailed description of the policy’s coverage and requirements or to make a claim under the policy, please contact Jan Whitehead, Assistant Head of Finance and Operations. Claims under the policy may, among other things, be time limited, so families are responsible for contacting Jan Whitehead immediately after an incident occurs.
Student Information Parents should keep their family and student contact information current with the School. Parents may update their information (home phone number, cell phone number, address, etc.) directly on the Parent Portal of the School website. Changes to emergency contact information should be submitted to the Registrar. If a student is withdrawing from Presbyterian School, please contact the Registrar.
Student Telephone Usage Students who need to reach a parent during the academic day may ask to use the phone in the School Office. They may not use a cell phone. Students may not use a school telephone unless authorized by a teacher or office personnel. If parents need to inform students of a change in pickup plans for the day, they should call the office before 12:00 noon.
Teacher Observation or Recommendation Forms Teacher observation or recommendation forms will only be released with a signed parental release. Teacher recommendation forms to be sent to another school or teacher observation forms to be sent to a professional must be submitted to the Division Office. Please do not give any forms to classroom teachers.
Teacher recommendation forms are mailed from the School to the requesting school, and teacher observation forms are mailed from the School to the professional. Forms are not given to the parents for hand delivery. This is a very strict policy, which the professional educational community respects and demands. If time is especially critical, parents may request and pay for a courier service. Nevertheless, a minimum of seven days must be allowed for this process as multiple teachers and administrators are involved. The Division Head or Headmaster oversees the release of all reports and information from the School. Information will not be released if the financial account of the student or family is in arrears.
Traffic and Parking Traffic around Presbyterian School is increasing. In order to ease congestion and increase the overall safety of students, please be mindful of the following when coming to pick up or drop off a student:
• For the safety of our community, especially the children, cell phone use, including texting, while driving on campus is prohibited.
• Please do not leave any personal belongings of value (i.e. cell phone, purse, laptop, etc.) in your vehicle.
• When visiting campus, parents should park in the North Parking Lot. First Presbyterian Church (FPC) will have an onsite parking attendant at the North Parking Lot to monitor traffic from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Accordingly, there is one single entrance to the North Parking Lot off of Oakdale Street. The North Parking Lot will be limited to FPC and
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Presbyterian School employees, ministries, members and guests. To ensure there is adequate parking for individuals coming to campus, drivers entering this lot may be asked who they are meeting or what event they are attending. To expedite the screening process, please place the blue Presbyterian School parking sticker on your front left dashboard window. These parking stickers were provided in the August Back to School packet. Additional stickers are available in the school offices.
• The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is sharing their new Glassell School of Art parking garage with Presbyterian School and FPC. Automobile entry and exit from the garage will be at 5101 Montrose Blvd. to the south of Barkdull Street, while pedestrian ingress and egress will be located via elevator to the east of our cafeteria area. The MFAH has committed to having additional security in the garage at all times. Please note, the following payment requirements for the Glassell School of Art Parking Garage and plan accordingly:
0-30 minutes: FREE 31 min- 4 hours: $10 4-12 hours: $18 12-24 hours: $35
• There is no parking allowed on Roseland Street, or on Oakdale Street during the school day. Houston Police will ticket and tow cars illegally parked.
• Please observe and respect all handicap and limited mobility signs in all school parking lots. Cars without handicap parking tags should not park in reserved handicap parking spots. Please do not leave anything of value (i.e. purses, laptops, etc.) in your car when parked in our school parking facilities. Presbyterian School is not responsible for valuables left in vehicles.
• Oakdale Street is a school zoned area from 7:15 - 8:10 a.m. with a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.
• For morning drop-off Lower and Middle School cars should enter the carpool line from Montrose Blvd. Cars entering the line from Main Street should loop around Travis Street and Pinedale Street in order to access the end of the line.
• For Middle School afternoon pick-up between 3:10 and 3:30 p.m., cars must enter the carpool line by turning west into Portland Street from Main Street. Cars are then to line up by turning left onto Travis Street and then right onto Pinedale Street. Cars attempting to enter the pick-up line from Montrose Blvd. will be routed around the block to the end of the line.
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• After drop-off and pick-up Lower and Middle School cars should exit to the right onto Oakdale Street going towards Main Street (see diagram below). Parents are asked to refrain from turning left towards Montrose Blvd. in order to ease congestion and increase overall safety.
• Because student safety is of the utmost concern, students whose parents or caregivers repeatedly violate the on-campus driving rules may be subject to disciplinary consequences including dismissal or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Transcripts Parents may print their child’s report card or transcript from http://reports.pshouston.org at any time. However, if an official school transcript is required, please submit your transcript request to the Registrar or Division Office Managers. Official school transcripts will only be sent with a signed parental release. Official school transcripts will be mailed from the School directly to the requesting school. Official school transcripts will not be not given to the parent for hand delivery. This is a very strict policy, which the professional educational community respects and demands. If time is critical, parents may request and pay for a courier service.
Tuition and Billing The tuition includes, among other items, expenses for classroom supplies, enrichment, technology and trips. Please note, each year, tuition may be subject to change. The following information is for 2017- 2018. Middle School (6th-8th) $23,185 Middle School (5th) $22,760 Lower School $19,855 Kindergarten $19,400 Prekindergarten $17,610 Beta (full day) $15,270 Beta (half day) $12,730
In addition to the tuition, a New Student Fee of $500 applies to each student the first time he/she enrolls at Presbyterian School.
Billing A deposit of $1,000 is due with the enrollment contract; it is applied towards the tuition. The deposit is non-refundable.
Tuition is payable in full on June 1, prior to the enrolling year. The School offers a two-payment plan (June and December) and a ten-payment plan (monthly, June through March.) The two and ten payment plan options will be by ACH draft. These payment plans include interest of 6% per annum on the unpaid balance. In compliance with Truth in Lending Act disclosures, finance charges for payment plans are defined and disclosed for each contract.
The Business Office will send periodic statements for applicable After School fees.
Family cooperation in paying on time is appreciated. If any student’s account is not current, the School will not release the student’s grades and transcripts, the School will not issue an enrollment contract for the following year, and the student may be excluded from attendance until all accounts are current. The Assistant Head for Finance and Operations is available to parents to discuss payment options and other financial matters.
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Tuition Refund Insurance The School offers a Tuition Refund plan through A.W.G. Dewar, Inc. The cost is .95% of tuition. Participation in the Tuition Refund Plan is required for students whose tuition is paid on the two-payment, ten-payment or an individualized payment plan. It is optional for students whose tuition is paid in full by June. Details of the plan are enclosed with enrollment contracts and are available in the Business Office.
Tutoring When parents are considering tutoring for their child, they should immediately contact the homeroom teacher, advisor, Academic Enrichment Team, Associate Head of Middle School or Division Head for guidance. The teacher may suggest in-school extra help or other classroom strategies before recommending outside professional intervention.
When teachers, Division Head and parents agree on the usefulness of additional professional support, the Academic Enrichment Team or Associate Head of Middle School will provide information about possible tutors or academic therapists. Before faculty can communicate with tutors, parents must submit an Authorization for Exchange of Information Form. Outside professionals are not allowed to provide services on the Presbyterian School campus.
Presbyterian School faculty may be hired to tutor Presbyterian School students with special approval from the Division Head. Faculty may not be paid to tutor any of their current students or any student one grade level below what they teach. Faculty may not be hired to tutor students on campus between the hours of 7 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Uniforms and Dress Code For the sake of consistency, in all matters of appearance, apparel and accessories, the School will act as final arbiter where differences of opinion exist. Sue Mills, Inc. is the Presbyterian School uniform supplier. All students must wear Presbyterian School uniforms obtainable at Sue Mills, Inc. In order to maintain an overall pleasing image of Presbyterian School students, no substitutions of vendors or materials are allowed. The Sue Mills store is located at Sue Mills Uniform at 3465-A W. Alabama St. at Marquart St. (entrance and parking on Marquart - behind Antiques of River Oaks and SGI-USA) Houston, TX 77027. Orders may also be placed directly by telephone (800-541-1850) or online www.millswear.com. The School offers a Uniform Resale Closets in One Pinedale where gently used Sue Mills Uniform items may be purchased at a discounted price. Any Sue Mills uniform clothing purchased in the Uniform Resale Closet may be worn to school. Please consult specific division guidelines for details on dress expectations for your child.
Vision and Hearing In compliance with regulations of the state of Texas, a vision and hearing screening is required for the following: • students who are new to the School • students who are four-years-old • students who are in K, 1st grade, 3rd grade, 5th grade and 7th grade
Presbyterian School will have a vision and hearing screening during the fall semester for all students who are in one of the above listed required categories if they have not already been screened by their physician. Additional recommendations can be made by teachers of other grade levels who have significant concerns. Parents will receive a copy of the report if their child fails the vision and hearing screen.
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Wireless Network Access Parents may have access to the internet through our wireless network connection while on campus. The guest network is called PresbyterianGuest. Please type 7135200284 when prompted to type a network key. Please know that the School’s wireless network is subject to monitoring and filtering by the School and that guests are expected to use it in an appropriate and legal manner that exhibits good modeling for our students. The School reserves the right to prohibit access by anyone found using the wireless network inappropriately.
Yearbook All students who were enrolled the previous year will receive a copy of the Presbyterian School Yearbook covering the events of the entire year. Yearbooks will be distributed in August.
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Early Childhood and Lower School Policies and Guidelines
Academic Enrichment Team (AET) The Presbyterian School Academic Enrichment Team (AET) is composed of specialists trained in a diverse array of pedagogies who extend differentiated instruction beyond the classroom walls, recognizing and responding to the gifts and needs of Pre-K -4th grade students in targeted and specific ways. The AET, in partnership with the classroom teacher, works to develop knowledge of each student as an individual learner.
Members of the AET monitor the development of foundational literacy and math skills. The AET joins with classroom teachers to provide assessment, support academic development, and foster critical and creative thinking skills.
The AET also coordinates support and services for students with diagnosed learning differences. Determination for services will be made by the Academic Enrichment Team, the Division Head and the Academic Dean. Team members translate testing results and recommendations into specific interventions, accommodations and strategies. Implementation steps are summarized in a Student Action Plan which is shared with parents and the student’s teachers. By establishing a partnership that is among teachers, parents and community professionals, the AET facilitates effective, school based responses to student needs.
While the school provides reasonable accommodations for students with diagnosed and current documentation of learning differences, the school is not able to accommodate all situations. Individual academic, speech or occupational therapy is not available; neither is a modified curriculum. Community professionals are not allowed to provide tutoring or therapy services on the Presbyterian School campus.
Arrival The following schedule refers to regular school hours: Beta Monday - Friday 8:10 a.m. - noon OR 8:10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. PK Monday - Friday 8:10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. K-4th Monday - Friday 8:10 a.m. - 3:05 p.m.
Pre-K-4th grade students may begin their day by participating in Before School PS+ from 7:15 a.m. to 7:55 a.m. Students attending Before School PS+ must be escorted to the mini-gym and signed in by a parent or middle school sibling. Students in Before School PS+ will be escorted to their classroom at 7:55 a.m. The School doors will officially open at 8:00 a.m. When the doors open, each child is to shake hands with the greeter and then proceed to their classroom. No student should be in the hallways before 8:00 a.m. Early Childhood and Lower School classes will begin promptly at 8:10 a.m.
Early Childhood classes follow a busy daily schedule. Routine is important for children to ensure their sense of security. Establishing a drop-off routine will help ensure a student’s successful start to the School day. Early Childhood parents should escort their child to the classroom door, share a hug, and allow them to enter the classroom independently or drive through the Welcome Center porte cochere between 8:00 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. to drop off their student.
Lower School parents may escort their child to the classroom door or drive through the north Oakdale porte cochere between 8:00 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. to drop off their student.
A student is considered tardy after 8:15 a.m. If a student arrives before 8:30 a.m., the student should go directly to the classroom and the teacher will mark the tardy. If a student arrives after 8:30 a.m., the student should go to the EC/LS School Office for an admittance slip before going to the classroom.
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Excessive and unexcused tardiness or absenteeism may result in non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Assemblies The Lower School meets as a community for assembly. These gatherings are used to discuss topics pertinent to the quality of life in the School, to showcase student achievement and to benefit from guest speakers. Fourth grade students “buddy” with Kindergarten students and serve as their escorts during assembly. The School is continually looking for new and stimulating programs to use as assemblies for students. Parents with suggestions for assemblies should contact the School office.
Attendance Attendance will be taken each morning promptly at the beginning of the school day. Please notify your child’s teacher when your child will not be at school due to illness or other circumstances. When a student accrues 10 absences during the academic year, the Division Head will communicate with the family. When a student accrues 18 or more absences, the Division Head may determine that a different grading scale be used for academic assessment and reporting on the student’s report cards and transcript. Excessive absences of any nature may jeopardize a student’s current enrollment, the promotion of a student to the next grade, or renewal of the student’s enrollment contract for future academic years. Please note that absences and tardiness are part of a student’s official record and are reported on the transcript.
Backpack Policy Beta, Prekindergarten and Kindergarten students will be issued a Presbyterian School backpack. These backpacks help the children develop personal responsibility for their belongings. Do not purchase an alternative backpack.
Parents should purchase 1st- 2nd grade students a backpack for school. No rolling backpack or carriers may be brought to school. Backpacks must be of the soft, collapsible style for students and in the appropriate size. 3rd – 4th grade students will be provided a binder.
All backpack and binders and are subject to search.
Behavioral Expectations Student discipline at Presbyterian School is a child-centered process that focuses on individual behaviors and choices. It is our goal to help students understand that they are accountable for their actions and to model for them what respect and responsibility truly mean. The guidelines for appropriate behavior are exemplified in the School motto, “As children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other and the environment.” Incidents of inappropriate behavior are treated as “teachable moments” and are most often resolved through teacher guidance. By encouraging direct, supervised communication among the students involved, we strive to help students seek the good in everyone just as we attempt to encourage their individual growth in learning how to resolve their own conflicts. However, any acts of physical aggression (e.g., hitting, kicking, biting, spitting, defiance or disrespect) could result in parents being contacted to take the student home for the rest of the day. Continued violations of school rules will result in parent contact and direct intervention by the EC/LS Division Head or the Headmaster and may result in more serious disciplinary consequences up to and including dismissal from the School or non- renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Birthday Celebrations Birthday party invitations, party favors and presents may not be brought or given out at school. Presbyterian School celebrates student birthdays in several special ways. A good way for parents to
- 27 - EARLY CHILDHOOD & LOWER SCHOOL include the entire class in the celebration is to provide a “treat” at school during snack or lunchtime. Please plan the date with the teacher well in advance (Many families hold parties out of school. If the whole class is not included in the plans, Presbyterian School suggests that the party not begin at dismissal time.)
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices Cell phones and electronic devices may NOT be brought to school by Lower School students. The sole exceptions to this policy is the privilege of using e-Readers for 2nd-4th grade students for reading only. Please note that only devices specifically designed as e-Readers (Kindles, Nooks, etc.) are permitted for this privilege. Students may only use e-Readers for reading books previously downloaded to the device (not for surfing the internet, listening to music, watching videos, etc.).
Students who would like the privilege of bringing e-Readers to school must have parent permission and must abide by the rules listed on the e-Reader Permission Form (distributed and collected by Magnus) before bringing their devices on campus. The School reserves the right to search and inspect personal electronic devices that are brought to campus as well as any data, messages or imagery contained on them.
Chapel The Chapel experience is a fundamental and distinctive part of a Presbyterian School education. Its purpose is to provide the spiritual foundation that will guide and balance a Presbyterian School student’s decision-making in daily life.
Every grade attends chapel once a week. Beta students attend chapel on Tuesdays, Prekindergarten students attend chapel on Thursdays, and Lower School students attend chapel on Wednesdays. Students wear their dress uniform on chapel days. The Chaplain utilizes Bible stories, song, discussion, dramatization, and prayer as essential elements in helping Presbyterian School students develop a spiritual core. Parents are welcome to attend chapel with their students.
In addition to weekly chapel, several all-community chapel services are held in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church to unite the community, mark important events, and manifest the Christian foundation of Presbyterian School. These events include Convocation, Veterans Day Chapel, Thanksgiving Chapel, Christmas Chapel, Easter Chapel, and the End of School Chapel.
Dismissal and Departure from School Students will be released from the classroom only to the care of an authorized adult at the end of the school day. The parent or authorized adult will sign out student(s) at the classroom door daily. The form listing people authorized to pick up a student must be kept up-to-date. Additions and changes can be made through the EC/LS school office.
If a student is going home with someone other than the normal carpool, please send an email to the student’s teacher giving permission for that person to pick up the student. This is an important and necessary safety precaution.
Students who have not been picked up at dismissal will be taken to PS+, where they will remain supervised until parent pick-up. (Half day Beta students will be taken to the EC/LS school office.) If a student is not picked up by 4:30 p.m., students will participate in Extended Care and parents will be charged a daily flat fee of $15. Students may remain at school in Extended Care as late as 6 p.m.
In order to make the Lower School hallways as safe and organized as possible and to ensure a quiet atmosphere for learning until dismissal, please do not approach classroom doors until 3:05 p.m.
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We encourage all parents to make every effort to schedule non-school activities and appointments after school hours. In the event that a student must leave school early please take the following steps:
1. Send a written note or email to the student’s homeroom teacher describing the situation. 2. At the time of early pick-up go to the School office to sign out your child before picking up your child at the classroom. 3. Take the early dismissal slip to your student’s teacher as authorization for the teacher to release your child.
Grading and Assessment Using a number of different tools and methods, the faculty seeks to provide parents and students with a clear picture of student achievement and growth.
The academic school year is divided into trimesters. Parents will receive a report card at the completion of each trimester during the school year. In Kindergarten, First and Second grades, student progress is described by teacher narrative and with symbols coding student skill development. In Third and Fourth grades, teacher narratives and letter grades communicate student growth and content mastery.
Homework The purpose of homework in the Lower School is to reinforce classroom learning and to develop good study habits. While reading is the foundation of each student’s daily homework, other assignments may be given to support classroom learning. Parents can help by scheduling a consistent homework time each day and by establishing a study area with minimal distractions and necessary supplies. It is important to encourage, motivate and guide your child but do not do the assignment.
Time spent on homework will vary, but Kindergarten-second grade students should expect between 20-30 minutes of homework a day, including reading assignments. Third and fourth grade students will be required to copy their assignments into their planners. Students at these grade levels can expect 30-45 minutes of homework a day.
Students who are absent when their assignments are given out, should, upon returning to school, take the responsibility of approaching their teachers to obtain the new assignments.
Please communicate with your child’s teacher if there is a homework concern.
Lunch and Snacks All Early Childhood students should bring a small snack to school each day.
All full day Early Childhood students should bring a lunch from home. A hot lunch program is available for Lower School students. Students who bring their lunches from home need to use containers suitable for preserving the heat or cold since microwaves and refrigerators are not available. Names should be clearly written on the outside of student lunch boxes. Glass bottles and carbonated beverages are not permitted.
Lunch is an important social time for students, providing an opportunity for conversation and interactions among peers. Beta students will eat in their classrooms. Pre-K-4th grade students will eat in rooms FH 152-156 adjacent to the FPC kitchen unless authorized to move to another area for a special activity with a faculty member. Lower School parents are welcome to come to lunch with their student. Due to the
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Toilet Training Beta boys should not wear belts with their pants. We encourage bathroom independence and belts may sometimes become a hindrance. All Beta students are expected to be toilet trained before the first day of school. Accordingly, there are no facilities for changing diapers in the classrooms. All Beta students should have a complete change of uniform clothes (shirt, shorts, underwear, socks) all marked with the child’s first and last name and placed in a large ziploc bag.
Uniform and Dress Code Grooming and Appearance • The School uniform is a mark of community that identifies the wearer as a student at Presbyterian School, it is the School’s expectation that when a student is wearing the uniform it is worn properly. Presbyterian School students should be neat in appearance and well groomed at all times. The School asks parents to be supportive of this expectation, even outside of school. • All shirttails must be tucked in at all times. • For the sake of modesty, girls should wear dark, solid color shorts under their uniform skirts.
Shoes, Belts and Accessories • Socks must be worn with shoes. • Only closed-toe, flat-heeled, rubber-soled shoes or athletic shoes may be worn to school. Boots are not acceptable. Lower School students must wear non-marring athletic shoes during Physical Education classes. • Belts must be worn with shorts or pants for Lower School students. Belts are optional for Early Childhood students. Belts must be plain and modest in size. • Hair should not cover the eyes. Boys’ hair should not reach the collar of the shirt. Headbands, hair bows and scrunchies are appropriate hair accessories for girls. Scarves and kerchiefs may not be worn. Hair should be worn up for P.E. • Only uniform outerwear may be worn inside school. Non-uniform cold weather outerwear may be worn to and from school and on the playground. • Make-up is not allowed.
Early Childhood and Lower School students should wear dress uniform for their chapel days, field trip days and school picture day. Students may choose to wear their dress uniform as a daily uniform option.
Please Note: Items marked below with an asterisk (*) do not need to be a Sue Mills uniform item.
BOYS (Beta-4th Grade) Dress Uniform • Sue Mills Short Sleeve OR Long Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Shorts OR Pants (khaki) • Socks* • Belt (only for Lower School)*
Daily Uniform • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Shorts (khaki)
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• Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Sue Mills Fleece Jacket with School Logo (navy) • Sue Mills Presbyterian Sweatshirt • Appropriate outerwear from the PS School Store* • Socks* • Belt (only for Lower School)*
GIRLS (Beta-4th Grade) Dress Uniform • Sue Mills Front Zip Jumper (black watch plaid) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Peter Pan Blouse (white with navy piping) • Socks*
Daily Uniform • Sue Mills Front Zip Jumper (black watch plaid) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Peter Pan Blouse (white with navy piping) • Sue Mills Oxford Short Sleeve Blouse with School logo (white) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Skort (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Skirt (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Shorts (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Sue Mills Cardigan Sweater with School Logo (navy) • Sue Mills Fleece Jacket with School Logo (navy) • Sue Mills Presbyterian Sweatshirt • Appropriate outerwear from the PS School Store* • Socks*
Spirit Dress for Students All students will be given a Spirit t-shirt at the beginning of the school year. Students may wear their Spirit t-shirt or any other Presbyterian School t-shirt with a uniform bottom each Friday. Presbyterian School t-shirts worn to school must be free of pen markings, signatures, comments or other written graffiti. Spirit Dress is waived for Special Chapel services which fall on Fridays.
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Middle School Policies and Guidelines
Academic Enrichment Team (AET) The Presbyterian School Academic Enrichment Team (AET) is composed of specialists trained in a diverse array of pedagogies who extend differentiated instruction beyond the classroom walls, recognizing and responding to the gifts and needs of our students in targeted and specific ways. In Early Childhood and Lower School, the Academic Enrichment Team, in partnership with the classroom teacher, works to develop knowledge of each student as an individual learner.
At the Middle School level, the focus shifts to study skills and organizational strategies. The Associate Head of Middle School heads this effort. The goal is to equip each Middle School learner with skills so that he or she can effectively manage time, place and information in a way that enhances his or her individual learning process.
When a concern develops about a student’s ability to keep pace with the demands of the Middle School curriculum, the Associate Head of Middle School will work with the student, parents, advisor and teachers to determine and facilitate necessary action. The goal is for each Middle School student to be able to effectively demonstrate independent mastery of required course content.
The Associate Head of Middle School coordinates support and services for students with diagnosed learning differences, establishing a partnership between and among student, teachers, parents and community professionals. In Middle School, the determination for services will be made by the Associate Head of Middle School, the Division Head and the Academic Dean. The Middle School student is considered an integral part of this partnership. Testing results and recommendations are summarized into specific school based interventions, accommodations and strategies. A written summary, the “Student Success Plan,” includes specific actions the student can take to help him or herself.
The Associate Head of Middle School will consult with faculty members in all subject areas so that effective interventions and accommodations are consistently available to support the student with diagnosed needs. While the school provides reasonable accommodations for students with diagnosed and current documentation of learning differences, the school is not able to accommodate all situations.
Supplemental, small group instructional services are not offered in Middle School as it is anticipated that students will be equipped to work through the Presbyterian School curriculum supported by accommodations detailed in the Student Success Plans.
Individual academic, speech or occupational therapy is not available; neither is a modified curriculum. Community professionals are not allowed to provide tutoring or therapy services on the Presbyterian School campus.
Advisory Program Each student will be assigned to an advisory. Each advisory group will have an advisor who is responsible for closely monitoring a student’s overall academic, social and emotional well-being. The advisor communicates with the other teachers of a student to maintain a comprehensive picture of the child’s progress. The advisor is the primary link between school and home and meets with parents during parent-teacher conferences. Parent/Teacher conferences will be scheduled twice during the school year with the advisor. In the Middle School, all students lead their conferences, and the advisors act as facilitators. Parents are encouraged to contact the advisor throughout the year for information and assistance.
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Arrival & Attendance The following schedule refers to regular school hours:
Grade 5 - 8 Monday - Friday 7:55 a.m. - 3:10 p.m.
Morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up for Middle School students are at the Palm Court entrance on Oakdale only. Students may arrive as early as 7:15 a.m., but should not enter the building until a faculty member is present to supervise drop-off. Early arriving students should remain in Palm Court. Each student is to shake hands with the greeter. Students should be seated and may socialize quietly or study until release time.
Given the increased traffic on Barkdull, Pinedale, and Oakdale, safety is of overriding importance. With this in mind, drivers must refrain from all cell phone use, including texting, while driving on campus. During drop-off, the car should come to a complete stop before the student exits the vehicle. Please avoid having students walk between cars or remove items from the trunk of the car whenever possible. If parents need to park, they should use the North Parking lot bordering Main Street.
First period starts promptly at 7:55 a.m. Students should arrive at school by 7:45 a.m. in order to get organized, put belongings away, and get ready for their day. Students who are not in their advisory and prepared for the day by 7:55 a.m. are recorded as tardy. Any student arriving after 8:00 must sign in at the Middle School Office before going to class where he/she will receive a School Tardy Slip to give to the classroom teacher.
Parents will be notified if their student is repeatedly late. Repeated tardies can negatively affect students’ performance at school. Tardiness and absences are recorded on the student transcript, a key document used by high schools in their admission decisions. A pattern of tardiness may negatively affect admission to schools. Excessive and unexcused tardiness or absenteeism may also result in non- renewal of enrollment for future academic years at the School.
Students must attend four periods in a school day to participate in games, practices, and after school rehearsals. Students who cannot remain on campus for four periods are marked absent for the day. The exception to this policy can occur when 8th grade students are making high school visits.
If you are having difficulty making it to school on time or have many absences, the school will respond accordingly: • Initial concerns (10 late reports to school or absences): The Head of Middle School will contact parents to discuss the issue. • Continued difficulties (18 absences): Students and parents will meet with the Head of Middle School to discuss strategies for improvement. Students will be placed on Academic Notice, which indicates the school’s serious concern that success is impeded by school attendance issues. The student's report card may also be modified with a different grading system. • Unremitting difficulties (24 absences): Presbyterian School may require a discussion on promotion to the next grade level for the following school year or non-renewal of the student’s enrollment contract for future academic years.
Assemblies Middle School meets for Assembly on “A” days. These gatherings are used to discuss topics pertinent to the quality of life in the School, to showcase student achievement, to benefit from guest speakers or outside cultural events and the like. Occasionally, Middle School will be combined with all or part of the Lower School for special events. The School is continually looking for new and stimulating programs to use as assemblies for students. Parents with suggestions for assemblies should contact the School office.
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Athletics The Presbyterian School athletic program is founded on the principles of sportsmanship, cooperation, teamwork, self-discipline, and enjoyment. The fundamental athletic goal in all Middle School sports is to develop students’ moral, personal, and physical skills in the spirit of fellowship and fun. Through both team competitions and individual experiences, student athletes develop new sources of strength and confidence and gain a deeper understanding of the commitment needed to attain personal and team goals.
Our athletics program has become a healthy outlet for many of our Middle School students and their families. Positive coaches and teammates can make a difference in the lives of impressionable youngsters. The Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) is an organization which cultivates both character and competitiveness among its participants. All Presbyterian School coaches participate in PCA training. Additionally, we will be intentional about connecting their message of positive and productive sportsmanship to our own unique Christian mission.
Inappropriate student behavior in athletics may be handled through the School’s regular disciplinary process with corresponding consequences up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Presbyterian athletes are also encouraged to attend the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meetings which are held at 7:30 a.m. on the 2nd Thursday of each month (October-April) in Room LC181.
The School’s home field is located at the Outdoor Education Campus at 9100 South Freeway 77051. All students in grades six, seven and eight are eligible to participate in athletics. However, football is only available to grades seven and eight.
Presbyterian School is a member of the Houston Junior Prep Conference and competes against schools within the Greater Houston Athletic Conference. Middle School athletics is divided into three seasons: Fall, Winter and Spring. The School abides by the Conference’s requirements as to a student-athlete’s eligibility.
All athletes are required to have an Athletic Physical Examination Form on file at the School prior to participation in any sport. The Athletic Physical Examination Form is distributed and collected by Magnus.
During exams, practices will be optional. Students must attend four periods in a school day to participate in games, practices, and after school rehearsals.
The behavior of spectators reflects directly upon the reputation of our school community. Presbyterian School fans should:
• Show respect for the opponent and officials at all times. • Show positive support for both competing teams, including the content of cheers and signs. • Know and understand the rules and concepts of the game. • Maintain self-control at all times. • Recognize and acknowledge good performances on either team. • Support those participating in and/or conducting the event. • Set a good example for visiting athletes and fans when we are their hosts. • Follow the directions of game administrators when attending athletic events. • Fans should be seated and remain in the bleachers or designated areas away from the team and playing areas.
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• The School may at any time ask a spectator to leave or prohibit a spectator from attending a Presbyterian School event that is on campus or at another location.
Fall sports include: Cross Country (Girls and Boys) Field Hockey (Girls) Football (7th & 8th Boys) Volleyball (Girls)
Winter sports include: Basketball (Girls and Boys) Soccer (Girls and Boys) Swimming (Girls and Boys) Wrestling (Boys)
Spring sports include: Golf (Coed) Lacrosse (Girls and Boys) Track and Field (Girls and Boys)
Backpack & Gym Bag Policy Middle School students must have a soft collapsible style backpack. No rolling backpacks or carriers may be brought to school. Backpacks must be able to fit completely in the lockers.
Middle School students will also need to bring a PE bag to carry clothing and equipment needed for Physical Education and/or Athletics. Due to space constraints, each student may only bring a backpack and PE bag to school. These bags must be kept in the students’ lockers unless otherwise instructed. If a student participates in an after-school activity and has additional bags to store, a separate storage space will be assigned to that student.
All student belongings, including uniform items, books, binders, lunch bags, backpacks, jackets worn to and from school must be labeled with the student’s full name and are subject to search.
Biannual Comments on Student Performance Students and families will receive feedback on school-related efforts via narrative comments. Twice per year, a personalized letter created by the student's advisor will appear online as part of a child’s school record. While these comments do not contribute to the overall transcript of a student, families should read and reflect on the narrative, which provides a status report on social interactions, general academic performance, and character development. The narrative document, constructed by the grade level teaching team and written by a student's advisor, serves as a complement to each child's personal reflection which he or she creates prior to leading family conferences each semester.
Bicycle and Walk to School Policy 1. Students in 5th-8th grades may ride bicycles or walk to/from school. Students biking to school must complete the School’s Bicycle Form distributed and collected by Magnus. Please contact the Middle School Office if your student is walking to or from the School. 2. Bicycles must have a lock, and each rider is responsible for locking up his/her own bicycle - not with a friend's bicycle.
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3. All bicycle riders are to have helmets, or they will not be permitted to ride their bicycles to and from Presbyterian School. Permitted riders without helmets will be requested to walk their bicycles home that day and return with a helmet the next day. 4. No riding on the sidewalks or the playground areas around the School will be allowed. 5. Riders must follow bicycle safety rules, ride only one person on a bicycle at a time, and ride only in the bike lanes while riding on the public streets. 6. It is requested that each parent discuss these bicycle rules with your rider. Parents assume FULL responsibility and liability for the rider's conduct, safety, and bicycle. 7. Infraction of these rules may result in loss of permission to have the bicycle on school grounds. The School cannot legally assume any RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY in connection with a child's bicycle if it becomes lost, stolen, or damaged. We suggest that every bicycle be licensed through the local Police Department.
Birthday Celebrations Birthday party invitations and presents are not to be brought to school in order to minimize the disruption of class and to avoid the unintended slights and inequities that frequently result from such celebrations. Students may bring a small treat to celebrate during advisory period only. Parents should make such arrangements with their student’s advisor.
Chapel The Chapel experience is a fundamental and distinctive part of a Presbyterian School education. Its purpose is to provide the spiritual overtone that should guide and balance a Presbyterian School student’s decision-making in daily life.
The entire Middle School joins together for Chapel once each rotation. A student team works with the Chaplain to plan the worship experience. Prayer, scripture, music and message are designed to encourage students to apply Christian teachings to their contemporary world and to engage them in joyous celebration. Guest worship leaders from First Presbyterian Church and the wider community will participate regularly.
In addition to these regular chapel services, Middle School students join with the full Presbyterian School community in worship throughout the year. These all-school chapel services manifest the spiritual anchoring Christian foundation of Presbyterian School. These events include Convocation, Veterans Day Chapel, Thanksgiving Chapel, Christmas Chapel, Easter Chapel and the End of School Chapel.
Class Trips & Outdoor Education The goal of the Middle School Outdoor Education Program is the spiritual development of our students through fellowship, reflection, and servant leadership. Overnight, outdoor education class trips are integral in the mission of building confident students at Presbyterian School. Middle School students travel by grade level with increasingly challenging experiences and opportunities each school year. Details relating to each trip, including release forms, will be provided. Failure to return a signed release form prior to the deadline may result in a student being prevented from participating.
In addition to trip-specific policies and procedures set forth by the school, the sponsors, and the chaperones of any trip, all of the school’s regular policies and procedures, including those set forth in this Handbook, apply while a student is on school-related travel of any kind. Discipline will generally be handled through the school’s regular disciplinary process. The school may at any time require parent(s), at their own expense, to arrange for travel home for a student due to injury, illness or behavior.
Attendance on a grade level trip is required; non-refundable purchases are made in observance of this expectation. Parents who have questions regarding student attendance on a specific trip should contact the
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class trip coordinator and Head of Middle School to discuss the concern or conflict by the deadline announced in the trip informational materials. Students who do not attend a class trip are considered absent for these trip days unless otherwise noted by the Head of Middle School.
If a student does not obtain approval for missing a class trip, the School will ask that the family reimburse the non-refundable expenses unless an emergency necessitates the absence.
Communication Students and families should utilize appropriate lines of communication. Students are expected to address their concerns directly with the teacher or staff member involved. If parents have concerns or questions, please use face-to-face discussion with the appropriate faculty or administrative level. Parents should always schedule a visit rather than drop in unannounced.
Teacher – All issues relating to academics or discipline within a particular classroom are best dealt with by contacting the specific classroom teacher.
Advisor – All students are assigned an advisor. The advisor serves as a general academic counselor for each of his or her advisees. Social issues and issues of general concern regarding a student are also best addressed with a student’s advisor.
Grade Level Dean– Each grade level Advisory Team is headed by a Grade Level Dean who acts as first among equals in representing the views of the faculty and students regarding all grade-level issues. The Grade Level Dean is a good resource for issues that are general in nature and specific to that grade.
Dean of Students – Working with individual teachers, advisors, and Grade Level Deans, and conferring with the Head of Middle School, the Dean of Students serves as the authority on matters pertaining to student life, behavior, and discipline.
Associate Head of Middle School – The Associate Head of Middle School works with teachers on all matters related to curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment, providing them best practices and strategies for optimizing instruction for each student. The person in this role is also responsible for all matters of testing both standardized testing within the School and evaluative assessment outside of school. The Associate Head also works directly with students to provide them learning and organizational strategies as needed.
Head of Middle School – The Head of Middle School serves as arbiter in all academic, disciplinary, and social issues in the Middle School. In all such issues, the Head of Middle School consults the appropriate parties, policies and practices to ensure that considerations are consistent and accurate. When appropriate, the Head of Middle School confers with the Headmaster who is the final arbiter in all matters.
Community Standards and Expectations for Middle School
Promoting Citizenship Through the middle school advising program, the Presbyterian School community focuses on the qualities that students must have in order to act as a respectful and responsible individual. Middle school students play a principal role in defining what a citizen of the community should be.
Our Behavioral Philosophy At Presbyterian School, we believe that every member of our community should strive to live out the PS Core Values that reflect God's love for us. In this spirit, our students are expected to demonstrate
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honorable behavior consistent with our Core Values, acting with integrity by demonstrating respect in all that they do and say.
Core Values: Respect, Perseverance, Courage, Compassion, Integrity, Gratitude Motto: As children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other, and the environment.
Citizenship and Community Accountability System The goal of the MS Community Standards Accountability System is to develop student character, to enhance self-discipline, and to promote a safe school environment that is conducive to learning. Presbyterian School expects students to demonstrate “ownership of action,” by which a child appreciates and learns from a mistake while seeking to restore relationships that may have been damaged as a result of a poor decision.
When students ignore the School’s behavior expectations and norms, the faculty will intervene. Faculty will work with individual students to recognize times when personal behavior does not meet expectations and to make better decisions moving forward. Students’ decisions will be treated with respect and confidentiality. In keeping with the mission of the school, teachers and administrators will communicate unresolved discipline concerns with parents both to keep them informed and to encourage their support in working together with students. Families are asked to support students and faculty through positive conversations at home that reinforce the behavioral expectations of the School.
Citizenship and Community Standards In the spring and fall of 2016, PS Middle School students and faculty created the following list of actions and norms that demonstrate appropriate behavior in various environments. It is important for our community to be held accountable for the standards they have set.
Hallways • Walk (even around the corners) • Pick up trash even if it is not yours • Recognize people’s boundaries • Use quiet voices • Close your locker cabinet quietly
Classroom • Be on time for class • Listen to others while they are speaking; do not have side conversations • Support your classmates as needed • Have integrity by doing the right thing and making smart decisions • Don’t blurt out • Be respectful to teachers and students alike • Respect materials
Lunchroom • Wait quietly in the lunch line • Be polite to the kitchen staff (Say, “Please” and “Thank you”) • Clean up after yourself • Use restaurant etiquette
Assembly • Be respectful to speakers - listen and participate • Be respectful when reciting the pledge, motto, and prayer • Applaud to show appreciation, NOT to draw attention • When exiting, be respectful of the offices and classrooms around you
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• Sanctuary and Chapel • Be respectful to God • Sit up straight • Participate in the program as needed
Museums • Respect the shared space and museum guidelines set by teachers and museum staff
Middle School Norms • Think twice; act once • Embrace opportunities that make a positive impact on others • Practice perseverance • Speak with kindness • Do the little things the right way, even if no one is looking.
Procedures for Various Infractions Consequences Students are expected to follow the Middle School behavior expectations while on campus and when they are representing the School in extracurricular activities off campus. Violations of behavior expectations and norms will result in one or more of the following actions.
Citizenship and Community Standards Infraction Reflection (CCSIR) • After school detention • Saturday detention • Loss of privilege • Compromised grade as a result of academic dishonesty • Conference with parents • Behavioral Warning Status • Suspension (in-school and/or out of school) • Final Warning Status • Re-enrollment hold or denial for the following year • Dismissal (Note: Only the Headmaster may dismiss a student from Presbyterian School.)
Students will not be able to participate in after school activities on the same day as serving an elevated behavioral consequence (such as an after school detention or suspension).
Behavioral Expectation Infractions Minor Infractions Examples of minor infractions include but are not limited to: • Uniform infraction • Technology misuse • Tardiness to class • Roughhousing • Disruption in class or school event • Violation of the citizenship and community standards and norms
Major Infractions Examples of major infractions include but are not limited to: • 3 after school detentions in an 8 week period • Repeated or more egregious conduct violations • Disrespectful behavior toward a faculty or staff member
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• Social cruelty or intentionally aggressive behavior • Honor violation or academic dishonesty • Repeated violation of the School’s Responsible Use of Technology Policy • Safety violations • Major disruption in class or school event • Skipping class or leaving a supervised area without permission • Repeated use of obscenity or inappropriate language • Retaliation towards a student • Destruction/damage of property
Infractions of Extreme Nature These infractions represent behavior of most serious concern as determined by the Head of Middle School in consultation with the Dean of Students and/or the Headmaster. Presbyterian students rarely require severe disciplinary intervention; however, in the case of serious infractions or repeated suspensions, Presbyterian School may place a student on Final Warning Status and face the possibility of dismissal from the school or non-renewal of their enrollment for future academic years.
Examples of infractions of extreme nature include but are not limited to: • Repeated or more egregious Major Infractions • Possession or use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, drugs, illegal substances, weapons, or explosives at any time on or off campus • Extreme vandalism/destruction of property while at school or at a school function • Facilitating or supporting those who violate any of these rules • Utilizing technology in order to create or distribute illicit or harmful information such as violence, pornography, discrimination, harassment, bullying, or academic dishonesty
Academic Dishonesty Cheating and plagiarism are a violation of the Core Values of Presbyterian School. Any attempt to pass off another person’s work, words, or ideas as one’s own, whether on an assignment done at home or an assessment completed at school, is dishonest. In addition to other possible consequences up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years, students may be required to make-up compromised assignments. Credit for make-up work will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Behavioral Warning Status Repeated offenses or a more serious first offense may result in a student going on Behavioral Warning status. When Behavioral Warning Status is applied to a student, the Dean of Students will meet with that individual and his or her family to discuss the situation. If the student is violation-free for the two following consecutive quarters, Behavioral Warning Status will be lifted. Behavioral Warning Status may carry over to the following academic year depending on the timing of the occurrence. If a student on Behavioral Warning Status commits additional conduct violations, the School may impose additional higher-level consequences in an effort to remedy the misbehavior up to and including dismissal from the school or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Citizenship and Community Standards Infraction Reflection (CCSIR) - Document created by teacher and student together When the fundamental relationship between a student and teacher cannot resolve a behavioral issue, Presbyterian School will utilize a Citizenship and Community Standards Infraction and Reflection form to report how a student has failed to meet daily expectations on a repeated basis. This may occur during one class period or build up over the course of multiple classes. Students will take the CCSIR home and discuss the infraction with their parents. Students will be required to have the CCSIR signed by a parent and returned to the assigning teacher the next day. After three CCSIRs are received in an eight week period, the student will serve an automatic after-school detention.
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Detention When the consequence assigned for an infraction is an after-school detention, this consequence will be served on the following Tuesday or Thursday afternoon from 3:10-4:00 p.m. A student will not be able to participate in after school activities on the day of the detention. When a student is assigned a Saturday detention they are to report to Palm Court at 8:00 a.m. and be picked up at 10:30 a.m.
Final Warning Status Conduct of the most serious concern may result in Final Warning Status. When Final Warning Status is applied, the Head of Middle School, Dean of Students, and/or the Headmaster will meet with parents and the student to communicate a Behavior Improvement Plan identifying home and School responsibilities. The plan will be kept in the student’s file.
At the end of the school year, the student’s conduct status will be reviewed, and one or more of the following possibilities may occur: • If the student ends the year with no further conduct violations, the Final Warning Status may be lifted and the student will start the following year on Behavior Warning Status. • If the student does not meet the terms of the plan, at the School’s sole discretion: o Final Warning Status may be carried over to the next academic year; OR o Re-enrollment for the following year may be denied; OR o The student may be dismissed from school; OR o Any other action approved by the Headmaster may be implemented.
Honor Violations Lying, stealing, and vandalism run counter to the mission of Presbyterian School. Any instance of these actions will result in a significant response by the School up to and including dismissal from the School or non-renewal of enrollment for future academic years.
Suspension On the day of any suspension, whether half-day, multi-day, in-school, or out-of-school, the student is not allowed to represent the School in sports, field trips, performing arts events, or extra-curricular activities. The student is expected to complete assignments from class during the suspension. There will be no academic penalty for students who miss assignments or assessments due to suspension. However, it is the responsibility of the student to complete all missed work within two days of returning to school in order to receive full credit.
Dismissal and Departure from School Students who do not participate on sports teams after school must go promptly to one of two places at dismissal time: PS+/Extended Care or Palm Court for Middle School pick-up and carpool. Students must wait in the designated area of Palm Court for after-school pick-up by an authorized adult. Authorized adults must be on the Authorization for Pick-Up Form which is distributed and collected by Magnus. A parent may meet the student in Palm Court or drive through the carpool line. Carpool tags will be assigned to each family. Please display these tags to help ensure after-school pick-up runs smoothly and safely. As with morning drop-off, drivers should refrain from cell phone use, including texting. After drop-off and pick-up Lower and Middle School cars should exit to the right onto Oakdale Street going towards Main Street. Please refrain from turning left towards Montrose Blvd. in order to ease congestion and increase overall safety. For safety, there will be no passing in the carpool lane. If a student is not available when a car arrives at pick-up, the driver will need to circle around and re-join the back of the carpool line or park and walk in to retrieve the student.
Students who walk home or ride public transportation must have a letter on file at the office authorizing them to do so. These students must check out each day with the faculty on carpool duty as they depart. Students who are walking or riding public transportation must leave promptly and not loiter on campus.
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Students who walk or ride public transportation and who are in PS+/Extended Care or after-school athletics must notify the supervising faculty member when they depart the campus.
Because the safety of the students at Presbyterian School is of the highest priority, students may not wait alone for their rides. Students who have not been picked up by 3:30 p.m. will be taken to PS+/Extended Care, where they will remain supervised until parent pick-up. If a student is not picked up by 4:30 p.m., parents will be charged a daily flat fee of $15, and the student may remain at school in Extended Care as late as 6 p.m.
Early Departure from School Please consider scheduling medical visits or similar appointments outside of school hours. In the event that a student must leave school early, please utilize the following procedure: 1. Ensure that the Middle School Office is aware of the scheduled early dismissal. 2. At the time of early pick-up, a parent must go to the Middle School Office to sign-out the student and obtain an early dismissal slip. 3. Take the early dismissal slip to the student's teacher as authorization for the teacher to release your student. 4. Upon the student's return to school, please sign-in with the Middle School Office prior to returning to class.
Exams Students in seventh and eighth grade take exams in all core academic classes at the end of the second and fourth quarters. Students must take their exams on the assigned days. Exams will not be given early. Make-up for exams will be at the discretion of the school and occur for situations of serious illness or an imperative absence as a result of a family emergency.
Grading & Assessment Using a number of different methods and tools, the faculty seeks to provide parents and students with a clear picture of student achievement and growth.
As teachers use online grade books to record student assessments throughout the school year, it is the responsibility of the student and his/her parent to monitor his/her academic progress on an ongoing basis throughout the school year.
Report cards are distributed four times a year based on a quarter system in Middle School. Middle School teachers utilize letter grades to represent a student’s achievement in core academic classes. In addition to letter grades, teachers also use a numeric grading scale to represent students’ performance in conduct and effort. Teachers will use a different grading scale (E, S, U) for assessing students in required rotation classes, and Physical Education and Wellness classes. (Please see the Appendix B for Assessment Rubrics for Arts and Wellness Classes.) End of year report cards will be withheld until all library materials, technology reimbursements made for missing/damaged loaner items, and athletic uniform items are returned to the School or the appropriate reimbursement is paid.
Middle School Grade Standards Goal: Student demonstrates independent mastery of concepts and skills.
97 – 100 ……. A+ 93 – 96 ………A 90 – 92 ………A-
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A - Student demonstrates outstanding performance in mastering a subject. Student exhibits academic excellence as evidenced by performance on various assessments. Student demonstrates independence and self-discipline in completing assigned work. Student exhibits superior reasoning skills and strong engagement in the classroom.
87 – 89 ………B+ 83 – 86 ………B 80 – 82 ………B-
B - Student demonstrates above average understanding of concepts and skills. Student exhibits consistent performance in achievement as evidenced by high quality work on various assessments. Student demonstrates a firm understanding of material by moving beyond rote memorization to its application in higher order thinking skills.
77 – 79 ………C+ 73 – 76 ………C 70 – 72 ……...C-
C - Student demonstrates satisfactory achievement and basic understanding of the material. Student performance meets minimum requirements on various assessments. Student performs average work with no major deficits.
60 – 69 ………D
D - Student demonstrates a marginal level of achievement as evidenced by minimal understanding of the material and weak reasoning skills. Student does not meet sufficient performance on various assessments. Students lack of understanding is evident and jeopardizes his/her readiness for promotion to the next level in the academic discipline.
Below 60 …….F
F - Student demonstrates little or no mastery of the material as evidenced by poor performance on various assessments. Student has failed to complete course requirements and is unable to demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements of the course. Student exhibits a lack of effort and is not prepared for promotion to the next level in the academic discipline.
Additional Scales 1- Exceeds expectations 2- Meets expectations 3- Does not meet expectation 4- Unsatisfactory
E-Excellent S-Satisfactory U-Unacceptable
In addition to assigning letter or number grades to written work and assessments, teachers also carefully observe and provide anecdotal records of student performance. Advisors discuss student performance with parents during parent conferences after the conclusion of the first and third quarters.
Academic Notice
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A student may be placed on academic notice at any point in the school year by the appropriate administrator. Conditions under which a student may be placed on academic notice include but are not limited to: • she/he receives two or more grades of D or F in a quarter • a student’s academic performance drops significantly • the effort and support required for a student to maintain a minimally acceptable performance is, in the School’s sole discretion, considered to be excessive • a student’s performance differs greatly from ability • a student’s attendance is affecting his/her academic performance or class participation
When academic notice is applied, teachers and parents will meet to agree on an Academic Support Plan stipulating home-school responsibilities if a student success plan is not already in place. Once the Academic Support Plan is in place, the student’s progress will be reviewed, and at the School’s sole discretion one or more of the following will occur: • academic notice is lifted or extended • a re-enrollment hold is applied • re-enrollment is denied for the following year • the student is dismissed from school • any other action approved by the Headmaster
Student Eligibility in School-Related Extracurricular Activities Presbyterian School recognizes and appreciates student involvement in extracurricular activities. While participation in various programs (e.g. sports practice and choir concerts) is an essential part of student development, the significant time invested in these activities can lead to an unbalanced academic focus and/or effort. To that end, Presbyterian School expects that all students maintain passing grades throughout their time as members of the community. For a student who is in peril of fulfilling this requirement in any one course, the School may see fit to restrict extracurricular activities until academic performance improves.
The Dean of Students and Associate Head of Middle School will check on academic performance for all students at mid-quarter during each marking period. Subsequent checks will follow throughout the second half of the marking period. Students who carry an average below 65% receive notification via email of the academic concern. These students are expected to connect with the course instructor to develop a plan for improvement. Students must share this plan with his or her advisor and the Associate Head of Middle School within two days of receiving the initial notification. Presbyterian School expects students in academic peril to keep track of all grades, paying special attention to the course with a grade below 65%. Once that grade has been raised to 65% or higher, the student should inform the Associate Head of Middle School. Should a student not improve his or her grade by the next assessment (formative or summative) within that course, Presbyterian School will restrict that child’s participation in any after- school activities until the overall grade meets the required minimum of 65%.
Graduation Requirements Each Middle School grade has a required curriculum specific to that grade.
5th Grade 6th Grade
Humanities: English 1 credit Humanities: English 1 credit Humanities: History 1 credit Humanities: History 1 credit Connections: Math 1 credit Math 1 credit Connections: Science 1 credit Science 1 credit Habits of Learning 1 credit Foundations in Learning, Language & Research 1 credit Physical Education & Wellness 1 credit Physical Education & Wellness ½ credit Rotation 1 credit Old Testament ½ credit
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Art, Introduction to Scripture, Music Rotation 1 credit Art, Coding and Logical Sequencing, Introduction to Performing Arts, Music 5th Grade Total: 7 credits 6th Grade Total: 7 credits
7th Grade 8th Grade
English 1 credit Humanities: English 1 credit History 1 credit Humanities: History 1 credit Algebra I(A)/Algebra I(A) Accelerated 1 credit Algebra I(B)/Algebra I(B) Accelerated 1 credit Life Science 1 credit Introduction to Physics and Chemistry 1 credit Spanish I(A) 1 credit Spanish I(B) 1 credit Arts Electives 1 credit Arts Electives 1 credit Physical Education & Wellness ½ credit Physical Education & Wellness ½ credit New Testament ½ credit Scripture: Contemporary Context ½ credit 7th Grade Total: 7 credits 8th Grade Total: 7 credits
Total Credits necessary for graduation: 28 credits
For students who enter Presbyterian School after 5th grade, acceptance to a particular grade at Presbyterian School confers recognition of sufficient credit hours at the student’s prior school(s) to allow credited entrance to the grade of acceptance at Presbyterian School.
High School Counseling The high school counseling process is introduced to the 7th grade parents during the spring step-up meeting. Key information presented includes identifying potential high schools and learning their timetables for application, visiting, and testing. Further conversations with students include the following:
• Academics – Recognizing the importance of having either a strong transcript or an improving one. • Recommendations – Students are familiarized with recommendation forms that teachers and administrators have to complete, and discuss the importance of the character traits, skills and habits that are listed on those forms.
In the fall, every 8th grade family is invited for a meeting with a Presbyterian School high school counselor. The purpose is to identify schools and discuss why a student and parents feel those schools are appropriate for the student and to ensure that students and parents understand dates and deadlines. Additional steps in the admissions process include:
• School Visits: In the fall, the 8th grade class visits a few of the local private schools. • Parents should register students for the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE), the Otis- Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) and the High School Placement Test (HSPT) as necessary. Registration materials are available online at various high school websites. • Recommendations: All teacher recommendation and transcript request forms for high school applications must be signed and submitted to the Middle School Office and not to the classroom teacher. • Transcript Release Forms for each school to which a student applies must signed and submitted to the Middle School Office allowing PS to send official records to those schools.
Homework
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The purpose of homework is to support students' educational goal of demonstrating independent mastery of concepts and skills. Presbyterian School students should plan on dedicating time each evening to reinforce classroom learning or to prepare for the next school day. In addition to daily assignments, work at home should include, at the student's initiative, review of past material, test preparation, and independent reading. The duration of homework completion may vary daily from class to class, and from student to student depending on that student's ability to master the concepts.
Students in Middle School may utilize a personal calendar system via paper planner and/or electronic iPad calendar. Additionally, students will access assignments and materials via eBackpack. On the event of a premature holiday departure or delayed return to school, the student should communicate with teachers to set a time to make up assignments as soon as possible.
Please DO NOT allow students who miss school due to illness to come to school and retrieve books or assignments from teachers. If a student is too ill to come to school, he/she should not return to campus until healthy. Teachers will work with students to set up a reasonable period of time to make up work once the child is well.
Lockers The School provides each Middle School student with an individual locker space. Unless otherwise authorized, students may not affix photos, decals, stickers or any other such materials to the outside of their lockers.
PS lockers have no locks, so no materials or valuables other than schoolbooks and supplies should be stored in the lockers. Only food consumed at break or lunch on a given day may be stored in student lockers. No food may be left in lockers overnight. It is a student’s responsibility to keep his/her locker neat and free of trash at all times. Students should have no expectation of privacy in their lockers and lockers may be searched at any time with or without prior notice to the student or family. The Dean of Students and other teachers and administrators will periodically check lockers.
Lunch A hot lunch program is available for students and teachers, Monday through Friday. Names should be clearly written on the outside of the students’ lunch boxes. Glass bottles and soft drinks are not permitted. All students will eat in rooms FH 152-156 adjacent to the FPC kitchen unless authorized to move to another area for a special activity with a faculty member.
Lunch is an important social time for students. To that end, Presbyterian School does not permit drop-in visits by parents, siblings, or friends from outside the School for lunch. Parents are urged not to bring fast food meals to the students during lunchtime.
Snacks and Food at School Middle School students have a short period mid-morning to go to their lockers, eat a snack and socialize with friends. Middle School students may keep a healthy morning snack and lunch in their lockers; however, no food may be left in lockers overnight. Candy or soft drinks should not be sent as a snack or as part of lunch. Accordingly, students are not permitted to use any of the food vending machines on campus during school hours. Students should not share or trade food with other students because many students have severe food allergic reactions. Students are not permitted to chew gum at school at any time.
Uniforms and Dress Code
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The uniform serves as a symbol of the Presbyterian School community. Additionally, the uniform limits distractions that non-uniform dress brings into the classroom. Students are expected to wear the uniform properly, remaining neat in appearance and well-groomed at all times. The Headmaster is the final judge of what is acceptable.
Each morning teachers observe uniforms and grooming to ensure students are in compliance. If a student is out-of-uniform and the issue can be remedied at school, students are expected to make the adjustment. If an adequate adjustment cannot be made immediately, teachers will discuss methods to prevent the issue in the future. Violations will result in the receipt of a CCSIR (See Community Standards and Expectations for further information.
Grooming and Appearance • All students must wear Presbyterian School uniforms from Sue Mills, Inc. Approved spirit wear and outerwear may be purchased from the online PS school store. No substitutions of vendors or materials are allowed. • All shirttails must be tucked in at all times, with the exception of the Middle School girls dress uniform shirt. Only plain white shirts may be worn as undershirts. • For the sake of modesty, girls should wear dark, solid color shorts under their uniform skirts. • The hem of girls’ skirts must fall at or below 3 inches above the top of the knee. Middle school girls grow during the school year, so it is recommended that families purchase skirts at knee length. This allows for the skirt to remain an appropriate length as the student grows. • Only 7th and 8th grade girls may wear makeup to school, and it must be “imperceptible.” • Hair must be natural in color, neat, clean, and properly combed. Hair should not cover the eyes. Boys’ hair should not extend below the top of the collar of the shirt. Headbands, hair bows and scrunchies are appropriate female hair accessories. Scarves and kerchiefs may not be worn. Hair should be worn up for P.E. • Boys must be clean-shaven. Beards, mustaches, goatees, and sideburns below the bottom of the ear are not allowed.
Shoes, Belts and Accessories • Socks must be worn with shoes at all times. • Only closed-toe, flat-heeled shoes or athletic shoes may be worn to school. Boots are not acceptable. • Non-scuffing athletic shoes should be worn during Physical Education classes. • Middle School students must have a pair of leather dress shoes (navy, brown or black). Shoe heels should not exceed 1 inch from the bottom of the foot to the bottom of the heel. • Belts must be worn with shorts or pants. Belts must be plain and modest in size. • Jewelry must be modest. Students may wear a single necklace and/or bracelet. In addition, girls may wear stud earrings. Students may wear watches. • Only uniform outerwear may be worn inside school. Non-uniform cold weather outerwear may be worn to and from school and on the playground.
Daily Uniform Boys • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Shorts (khaki) • Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Appropriate outerwear from Sue Mills (navy fleece jacket or sweatshirt with school logo) or from the PS School Store* • Socks*
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• Belt*
Girls • Sue Mills Stretch Blouse with School Logo (white) • Sue Mills Oxford Short Sleeve Blouse with School Logo (White) • Sue Mills Short Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Cotton Polo with School Logo (white, navy, light blue) • Sue Mills Skort (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Skirt (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Shorts (khaki, blackwatch plaid) • Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Appropriate outerwear from Sue Mills (cardigan, fleece jacket or sweatshirt with school logo) or from the PS School Store* • Socks*
Please Note: Items marked with an asterisk (*) do not need to be a Sue Mills uniform item.
Dress Uniform Complete dress uniforms are required for special guests, for formal chapel services such as Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter chapels, for Middle School formal lunches, for school pictures, and whenever specified by administration. Students are expected to know when to wear dress uniform, but may choose to wear all or part of the dress uniform every day. If a special occasion dictates formal attire, parents may be asked to bring the dress uniform to school.
Boys • Sue Mills Long Sleeve Button Down Oxford Shirt (white) • Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Sue Mills Presbyterian School Tie, Bow Tie or Vineyard Vines Presbyterian School Tie* • Leather dress shoes (navy, brown or black; non-white soles)* • Socks* • Belt* • Navy Blazer (required for 8th grade students only)*
Girls • Sue Mills Stretch Blouse or Oxford Short Sleeve Blouse with School Logo (white) • Sue Mills Skirt (black watch plaid) • Sue Mills Pants (khaki) • Leather dress shoes (navy, brown or black; non-white soles) * • Socks*
Please Note: Items marked with an asterisk (*) do not need to be a Sue Mills uniform item.
Physical Education Uniforms All Middle School students are required to change into a Presbyterian School physical education uniform consisting of a Sue Mills Presbyterian School PE uniform short and any official Presbyterian School t- shirt. Your physical education grades will be affected by not wearing proper PE uniform to class. PE uniforms are available at Sue Mills, Inc. No substitutions for the official PE uniform will be allowed. Students may carry PE clothes in a PE bag of their choice. Gym bags should be marked with a name. Non-marring athletic shoes must be worn during physical education classes.
Spirit Dress for Students All students will be given a Spirit t-shirt at the beginning of the school year. Students may wear the Spirit t-shirt or any other Presbyterian School t-shirt with a uniform bottom each Friday. Presbyterian School t-
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shirts worn to school must be free of pen markings, signatures, comments, or other written graffiti. Spirit Dress is waived for B Days or special events that fall on Fridays and require dress uniform.
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Appendix A: Technology Policies
• Lower School e-Reader Policy • Lower School Responsible Use of Technology Policy • Middle School Responsible Use of Technology Policy • Student iPad Use Contract
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LOWER SCHOOL E-READER POLICY
In order for your child to enjoy the privilege and responsibility of using an e-Reader while on campus, your child must abide by the rules listed below. Please note that the list below is a starting point and may change at any point at the discretion of the administration of the School.
As a parent of a Presbyterian School student, I understand and agree that my child must adhere to the following rules regarding e-Readers:
• My child’s e-Reader is to be used on campus solely for reading at appropriate times as determined by his/her teachers.
• My child’s e-Reader is not to be used for games, music or any other applications other than reading.
• My child is solely responsible for the security and protection of his/her e-Reader. Presbyterian School is not responsible for damage, theft, or loss of his/her device.
• My child is not to connect his/her e-Reader to the Internet at any time while on campus.
• My child understands that all books on his/her e-Reader must be downloaded at home with parent approval.
• My child understands that his/her e-Reader is for his/her use only, and he/she may not allow others to use it.
• My child understands that he/she must take care of charging his/her e-Reader at home, and he/she will not have the opportunity to charge his/her device at school.
• My child agrees to have his/her name clearly visible on his/her e-Reader.
• My child understands that any inappropriate use of his/her e-Reader may result in its confiscation and the immediate loss of the privilege of using his/her e-Reader at school.
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LOWER SCHOOL RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY
All use of the Presbyterian School computer network must be consistent with the educational objectives and Christian mission of the School. Each student is personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the School's network and technology resources. The use of the Presbyterian School computer network is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. Students must have parental permission to access the Internet.
At all times, Presbyterian School student use of the School network, technology equipment and Internet is to be guided by the School motto: “As children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other and the environment” and core values: Respect, Perseverance, Courage, Compassion, Integrity, Gratitude.
As a parent of a Presbyterian School student, I understand and agree that my child must adhere to the following rules regarding the use of technology:
• My child will keep all personal information private. Personal information means name, address, phone number, password and birthday.
• My child will tell an adult if he/she receives any messages that are mean or that make him/her feel uncomfortable.
• My child will tell an adult if he/she encounters any pictures, videos or images that make him/her feel uncomfortable.
• My child will respect others by sending only kind and appropriate messages.
• My child will respect others by using polite and respectful language.
• My child will only access, change or delete his/her own files, never those of others.
• My child will only use applications, music, pictures, videos and files that are approved by a teacher or parent.
• My child will respect others by taking turns and sharing computer resources.
• My child will not take pictures of students, teachers or classroom activities without permission.
My child will not make audio or video recordings of students, teachers or classroom activities without permission.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY
All use of the Presbyterian School computer network must be consistent with the educational objectives and Christian mission of the School. Each student is personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the School's network and technology resources. The use of the Presbyterian School computer network is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. Students must have parental permission to access the Internet.
At all times, Presbyterian School student use of the School network, technology equipment and Internet is to be guided by the School motto: “As children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other and the environment” and core values: Respect, Perseverance, Courage, Compassion, Integrity, Gratitude.
As a parent of a Presbyterian School student, I understand and agree that my child must adhere to the following rules regarding the use of technology:
• My child will show respect by using acceptable, responsible language in all communications. Threats, insults, vulgarities and swearing are inappropriate.
• My child will not use the network to send, post or view content that is objectionable. My child will tell an adult if he/she receives any content that is inappropriate or that make him/her feel uncomfortable.
• My child will keep all personal information private. Personal information includes, but is not limited to, name, address, phone number, passwords, birthdays, social security numbers and credit card numbers.
• My child will use the Presbyterian School computer network and equipment for educational purposes only. My child will treat School equipment with care. My child will not attempt to disable or circumvent the network filter. My child will not use the network for commercial purposes.
• My child will show respect by honoring the rights of copyright owners.
• I acknowledge that the School reserves the right to monitor all student devices, files, communications and activities.
• I acknowledge that Presbyterian School will fulfill it reporting obligations and cooperate fully with local, state or federal authorities in any investigation related to activities conducted through the Presbyterian School computer network.
Parent Agreement: I understand that inappropriate electronic communication originating off campus or associated with social networking is to be dealt with in the family setting; however, the School, in its sole discretion, may take disciplinary action based on my child’s online or social networking behavior. When parents become aware of objectionable or threatening statements via their child’s social networking sites, they are to contact first the parents of the other student(s) involved prior to contacting the school. Parental oversight is strongly encouraged.
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STUDENT iPAD USE CONTRACT
As a member of the Middle School, your child has the privilege to use an iPad for academic activities. With this tool comes opportunity and responsibility. In order to maintain the privilege of School iPad use, it is your child’s responsibility to follow these rules. Remember that responsibility and respect provide the foundation for these expectations.
As a parent of a Presbyterian School student, I understand and agree that my child must adhere to the following rules regarding the use of iPads:
• My child will uphold the Presbyterian School core values in all uses of the iPad.
• My child will uphold the Responsible Use of Technology Policy in all uses of his/her iPad.
• My child will have his/her iPad in his/her possession at all times. In those instances when his/her iPad is not in his/her direct possession, it will be kept it in a secure location, either locked up or under the supervision of an adult. If my child’s iPad is found in an unsecured location, the iPad will be held in the Middle School Office.
• No games other than School assigned games may be played while on the PS campus. This restriction applies to before school, breaks, study hall and after school.
• Social media will not be installed on my child’s iPad. He/She will not participate in social media exchanges while on the PS campus. This restriction applies to before school, breaks, study hall and after school.
• My child will not send or respond to text messages while on the PS campus. This restriction applies to before school, breaks, study hall and after school.
• All audible alerts will be deactivated on my child’s iPad.
• My child’s iPad will be kept in its protective case at all times. My child’s name will be clearly visible on the case. If my child’s iPad is not in a case, the iPad will be held in the Middle School Office until a case is procured.
• My child will take every precaution to maintain his/her iPad appropriately and to protect it from damage.
• My child will not allow any other student to use his/her iPad; likewise, he/she will not use any other student’s iPad.
• My child will use the School assigned screen lock code (Passcode).
• My child will activate “iCloud Backup” in iCloud settings so his/her school work will be backed up daily.
• My child will start each school day with a fully charged iPad.
• My child will not take pictures of students, teachers or classroom activities without permission.
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My child will not make audio or video recordings of students, teachers or classroom activities without permission.
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Appendix B: Middle School Assessment Rubrics
Fine Arts Rubric Conduct
1-Exceeds 2-Meets 3-Does not meet Criteria 4-Unsatisfactory Expectations Expectations expectations
Listening and Always listens, Usually listens, Occasionally listens, Rarely follows following directions follows directions, follows directions, does not follow directions or listens and adheres to the and adheres to the directions the first and does not adhere class routines on a class routines. time, and needs to the class routines. daily basis. reminders to adhere to the class routines.
Punctual to class Is always punctual to Is usually punctual Is occasionally late Is rarely on time to and transitions class and quickly to class and to class and has class and lags behind easily between transitions between transitions to new trouble transitioning when transitioning activities activities. activities with little in a timely manner. between activities. prompting.
Teamwork and Is always respectful Is usually respectful Occasionally shows Shows a lack of Respect of other people, art of other people, art a lack of respect for respect for others, art tools/music, and tools/music, and others, art tools/music, and equipment. Always equipment. Usually tools/music, and equipment. Needs cooperates with cooperates with equipment. Needs strong classroom rules or classroom rules or encouragement to encouragement to enhances group enhances group follow rules and not follow rules and not performance. performance. disrupt the work of disrupt the work of others individually others individually or in group or in group performance. performance.
Effort
1-Exceeds 2-Meets 3-Does not meet Criteria 4-Unsatisfactory expectations expectations expectations
Participation Always Usually Occasionally does Rarely demonstrates demonstrates on-task demonstrates on-task not demonstrate on- on-task behavior and behavior and behavior and task behavior and needs constant participates the participates during needs reminders to reminders to entire class period. class most of the participate. participate. time.
Productivity Always completes Completes projects Occasionally Rarely completes projects or performs or performance to completes projects/performance to the best of his or the satisfaction of projects/performance to the satisfaction of her ability. Exceeds requirements. but lacks meeting all requirements. expectations. requirements.
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P.E. Rubric
Conduct
1-Exceeds 2-Meets 3-Does not meet Criteria 4-Unsatisfactory Expectations Expectations expectations Listening and Always listens, Usually listens, Occasionally listens, Rarely follows following directions follows directions, follows directions, does not follow directions or listens and adheres to the and adheres to the directions the first and does not adhere class routines on a class routines. time, and needs to the class routines. daily basis. reminders to adhere to the class routines. Punctual to class and Is always punctual to Is usually punctual to Is occasionally late Is rarely on time to transitions easily class and quickly class and transitions to class and has class and lags behind between activities transitions between to new activities with trouble transitioning when transitioning activities. little prompting. in a timely manner. between activities. Teamwork and Is always respectful Is usually respectful Occasionally shows Shows a lack of Respect of other people and of other people and a lack of respect for respect for others and equipment. Always equipment. Mostly others or the the equipment and cooperates and plays cooperates and plays equipment. Needs needs strong by the rules. by the rules. encouragement to encouragement from play by the rules. the teacher to play by the rules.
Effort
1-Exceeds 2-Meets 3-Does not meet Criteria 4-Unsatisfactory expectations expectations expectations Participation Always Usually Occasionally does Rarely demonstrates on- demonstrates on- not demonstrate demonstrates on- task behavior and task behavior and on-task behavior task behavior and participates the participates during and needs needs constant entire class period. class most of the reminders to reminders to time. participate. participate. Wears uniform Wears P.E. uniform Wears P.E. uniform Has used more Has not worn P.E. daily and has regularly but has than 3 uniform uniform more than NEVER needed a used up to 3 free passes. 6 times. free pass. passes.
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