Cathedral School Parent / Student Handbook 2017-18 School Year

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year at Cathedral School. In choosing Cathedral, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic education.

The faculty and staff of your school look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual development in our students, in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church. As I support you in your role as the primary educator in the faith of your child let us together, form a community of spiritual support for one another, for the greater glory of God and the ever-deepening of our faith.

Together let us pray that God who has begun this good work in us may carry it through to completion.

This handbook reflects the policies of the school. Please read the handbook carefully, sign the agreement forms, and return them to school. With your signature you are agreeing to abide by these policies.

Let us recognize the importance of Christian education as we begin another exciting year, and continue to keep us in your daily prayers. Be proud to be part of Cathedral School and be determined you will contribute in a positive way to our faith community. May God continue to bless us each day as we continue to do His work.

God bless you and your family,

Mr. Tony Cerveny

Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CATHEDRAL SCHOOL INFO About Cathedral / History 8 Mission Statements & Philosophy 9 Cathedral School Goals 10 Parents as Partners in Education 10

ADMISSION INFORMATION Stewardship 11 General Statement 11 Age Requirements 11 Non-Discrimination Statement 11 Baptism and Birth Certificates 12 Required Exams & Immunizations 12 Transfer Students 15 Health Insurance 15

FINANCIAL INFORMATION Tuition 15 Registration Fee 15 Tuition Payments 17 Financial Aid 17 Family Volunteer Hours 18 Tuition Refunds 18

ACADEMIC Academic Curriculum 18 Academic Probation 18 Accreditation 19 Counseling 19 Enrichment Program 19 Eucharistic Celebrations 19 Eighth Grade Class Trip 19 Field Trips 20 Grading Scale 21 Graduation Requirements 21 Homework 22 Library 23 Lice/Nits 23

Promotion / Retention 23 Report Cards/Progress Reports 23 Prayer 24 RCIC 24 Sacramental Programs 24 Service Hours 24 Saint John Bosco Program 24 Special Education 24 Student Records 25 Testing 25 Transfer Students 25 Withdrawal Policy 25 Technology 25

COMMUNICATION Authority 26 Booster Club 26 Grievance Procedure 26 Emergency Information 26 Home and School Communication 26 Parent/Teacher Conferences 27 Principal/Teacher Communication 27 School Messenger 27 School Office Hours 27 Student/Family Directory 27

DISCIPLINE Conduct 28 Cheating 28 Lunchroom Behavior 28 School Behavior 28 Police Questioning 29 Search and Seizure 29 Weapon-Juvenile Court Act of 1987 29 Corporal Punishment 29 Discipline 29 Detention 30 Service Project 30 Suspension 31 Expulsion 32

UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE

Girls 33 Boys 34 All 35 Reminders 36 Violations 36 Out of Uniform Guidelines 36

GENERAL Abuse / Neglect Reporting 37 Asbestos 37 Attendance/Absence 37 Athletics / Clubs 39 Bicycling to School 40 Calendar 40 Car Line 40 Celebrations 40 Cell Phones / Electronics 41 Child Custody Policy 41 City Bus Riders 41 Crisis Plan 41 Daily Schedule 41 Drugs & Alcohol 42 Extended Care Program (ECP) 43 Facilities Use 43 ` Health & Wellness 43 Lost & Found 45 Lunch Program& Prices 45 Lunch Recess 46 Missions 46 Money Collections 46 Office Records 46 Parish Stewardship 47 Physical Education 47 Policies 47 Pregnancy / Parenting Policy 47 Protecting God’s Children 47 Recess 47 Returning to School 48 Safety 48 School Property 48 Social Justice 49 Supplies 49

Telephone 49 Video/Movie Guidelines 49 Volunteer Guidelines 49 Video Monitoring System 50 Visitors 50 Weather Emergencies 50 Right to Amend 51 Rights & Reservation 51

Cathedral School Cathedral School on the campus of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield is a pre- Kindergarten (3 & 4 yr. old, full day) through 8th grade Catholic School in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.

Through a Christ-centered program of academics, fine arts, technology, and service-learning we educate the whole child – body, mind, and spirit. We learn to be leaders by practicing leadership; we learn service by being of service; we learn to build the future by building a great today.

A rich tapestry is woven as strong Christian values in the Catholic tradition are taught not only in religion classes, but threaded through the state recognized core curriculum. The core curriculum guidelines, consistent with the State of Illinois Learning Standards, are followed for all subject areas. From Math to the Reading Wonders series, we strive to discover the best way to teach a solid core curriculum infused with Catholic values. Cathedral School’s future is built on a solid foundation of faith and a commitment to the whole child.

History Cathedral’s educational program spans three centuries. In 1889, Fr. Timothy Hickey asked the Dominican Sisters, then located in Jacksonville, IL, to staff St. Mary’s School, teaching boys and girls within the same classroom. Staff and students of St. Mary’s moved to the new Cathedral in 1928. Thousands of children have been educated here in the past 87 years. In 1959, the first part-time lay teacher was hired. Our alumni can be found all over the world. They are extremely loyal to their grade school and are remembered in the daily prayers of the current students.

In the 1950’s and 1960’s, with 60 or more children in a classroom, enrollment peaked at approximately 600. By the late 1980’s, due to changing demographics, enrollment dropped to 145. Our pastors and school administrators along with parents and parishioners began building enrollment once again. The school enrollment has fluctuated through the years, and remains at a consistent level.

The religious dimension is the most important facet of our educational program. To teach the children about God is indeed a privilege and a grace for the staff of Cathedral School. To assist the students in developing a strong relationship with God, while sharing our faith with them, is a great gift for them and for each of us. Seeing children turn to God for help, even when they are very small, allows us a glimpse of what really matters. To hear a mom tell us that her sons were praying because they had heard their parents talk about another person’s illness lets us know that what we are teaching is important.

Cathedral students come in various sizes, shapes, colors, and economic backgrounds. They learn to live, grow, and love together – respecting themselves and others. The older students assist with younger students in many ways – on the playground, in the lunchroom, and as “Faith Buddies”. Everyone at

Cathedral knows the teachers and the students because Cathedral is a family, not unlike the family that cares for them at home. Parents are involved in our educational program through the School Board and Parents Club. They volunteer as coaches, tutors, lunch and recess helpers, room parents, and field trip chaperones. Parents are instrumental in our fundraising endeavors.

All students of Cathedral have a strong record of service. They have many mission projects to aid in the support of needy children around the world. Cathedral students and staff also support many local charities such as the Holy Family Food Pantry, and Catholic Charities.

Cathedral School Mission Statement and Philosophy

Mission Cathedral School provides quality education in the Roman Catholic tradition. Our students are formed in a spiritual, intellectual and moral environment through instruction, service and worship.

Vision Formed in the image and likeness of God, we develop our students mind, body and soul, to prepare them to succeed in a diverse and ever-changing world.

Philosophy “We believe that each child is formed in the image and likeness of God. We believe that as the parents/guardians and the staff of Cathedral, we must continue to deepen our own relationship with God in order to be effective role models for the children.

We believe that the four-fold dimension of Catholic education – word, service, community, and worship – is of utmost importance. Through mutual respect we preach God’s Word and supported by a faith community that prays and works together, we serve God and our neighbor at home and around the world through local and mission service projects.”

“In our world and in our nation, the mission of Christian education is of critical importance. The truth of Jesus Christ must be taught; the love of Jesus Christ must be extended to persons who weep and suffer.” -National Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1972

Cathedral School Goals

We believe that parents are the primary educators of their children. They provide the foundation for which we as educators can build upon.

In order to follow our mission statement we must:

• Provide a strong foundation in the fundamentals of our Catholic Religion by increasing their knowledge of the Catholic faith, traditions and history.

• Provide a learning environment that nurtures and promotes lifelong learning skills.

• Provide an environment that develops positive personal character and opportunities for enhancing self- esteem and responsibility.

• Provide each student with the academic tools, social skills and moral integrity needed to be successful in the next level of their education.

Parents as Partners in Education

As partners in the educational process we ask parents to:

Set rules, times, and limits so that your child:

• Will get to bed early on school nights; • Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day; • Is dressed according to the school dress code; • Completes assignments on time; and • Has a nutritional lunch every day; • To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher Conferences; • To participate in serving the required number of family volunteer hours; • To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy; • To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers; • To meet all financial obligations to the school; • To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health; • To complete and return to school any requested information promptly; • To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education; • To support the religious and educational goals of the school; • To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;

• To treat teachers, administration and staff with respect and courtesy when discussing student problems. Stewardship: A Way of Life: Growing as Disciples Stewardship as a way of life means that as a parish we are focusing on our formation as disciples of Jesus Christ. Discipleship is a total conversion to a new way of life that identifies us as followers of Jesus. It’s not a “Sunday thing” but something we do all the time. It transforms us.

When you have many disciples in your parish you can also expect some exciting outcomes. Following are some of the outcomes that other parishes and diocese have experienced and that we hope to experience in the coming years as we develop a more vibrant, welcoming, prayerful parish that is eager to serve the needs of others.

ADMISSION INFORMATION

Admissions General Statement In the admission process, our first commitment is to active members of the Cathedral parish. Active is defined as one who is registered in the parish and shares time, talent and treasure with the community. Catholic children from other parishes and non-Catholic children may be admitted, if openings are available and at the discretion of the pastor and/or principal.

Age Requirements Children entering our pre-kindergarten must be three or four years of age on or before September 1st. All pre-kindergarten students must be potty trained before admittance to our program. No exceptions will be made.

Those children entering the kindergarten class must be five years of age on or before September 1st. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE.

Non-Discrimination Statement Cathedral School admits students of any race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, which can be reasonably accommodated, economic status or creed in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Faculty recruitment has been and will continue to be processed without regard to race, gender, or ethnic background. Set by Diocesan Policy.

Cathedral School is a parish school and a part of the Springfield, Illinois Diocesan School System. Therefore, Cathedral School follows all policies set by the Catholic Board of Education for the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.

Required Forms for Admission

Baptismal and Birth certificates Baptismal and Birth certificates must be submitted for all children entering school for the first time. Originals will be returned; copies will be kept on file.

Required Examinations and Immunizations Pre- Kindergarten  Physical examination, including a record of immunizations and proof of lead screening is required by state law prior to entrance into Pre-Kindergarten. These documents are expected in the office no later than September 15th of each new school year. Children entering Pre- Kindergarten will be required to show evidence of having received two (2) doses of live measles virus vaccine, the first dose at least 12 months of age and the second dose no less than a month after the first or other proof of immunity described in this part. Proof of immunity shall be documented evidence of having received vaccine or proof of disease verified by a health care provide. All students must be in compliance with the Illinois State Law Regulations concerning immunizations. Any child who is not in compliance by October 15 of the current school year will be asked to remain at home until the child has the proper immunizations. Immunizations are provided by the City Health Department if the parent desires.  Children in Pre-Kindergarten receive both Vision and Hearing Screenings.

Kindergarten  Physical examination, including a record of immunizations and proof of lead screening is required by state law prior to entrance into Kindergarten. Any child not in compliance with the health exams will be asked to remain at home until this exam is completed. Children entering Kindergarten will be required to show evidence of having received two (2) doses of live measles virus vaccine, the first dose at least 12 months of age and the second dose no less than a month after the first or other proof of immunity described in this part. Proof of immunity shall be documented evidence of having received vaccine or proof of disease verified by a health care provide. All students must be in compliance with the Illinois State Law Regulations concerning immunizations. Any child who is not in compliance by October 15 of the current school year will be asked to remain at home until the child has the proper immunizations. Immunizations are provided by the City Health Department if the parent desires.  An Eye examination is also required for all Kindergarten students. Both Physical and Eye Examinations are due prior to September 15th.  Dental examination is required for all Kindergarten students, and this form is due prior to May 15th.  Vision screenings are provided at school each year. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this

vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child, your child in Kindergarten will be screened.  Hearing Screenings are given to students in Kindergarten.

1st Grade  Hearing Screenings are given to students in Grade 1.

2nd Grade  A Dental examination is required for all 2nd Grade students prior to May 15th.  Vision screenings are provided at school each year. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child, your child in Grade 2 will be screened.  Hearing Screenings are given to students in 2nd grade.

3rd Grade  Hearing Screenings are given to students in 3rd grade.

6th Grade  Physical examination, including a record of immunizations and proof of lead screening is required by state law prior to entrance into these grades. Any child not in compliance with the health exams will be asked to remain at home until this exam is completed. Children entering 6th grade will be required to show evidence of having received two (2) doses of live measles virus vaccine, the first dose at least 12 months of age and the second dose no less than a month after the first or other proof of immunity described in this part. Proof of immunity shall be documented evidence of having received vaccine or proof of disease verified by a health care provide. All students must be in compliance with the Illinois State Law Regulations concerning immunizations. Any child who is not in compliance by October 15 of the current school year will be asked to remain at home until the child has the proper immunizations. Immunizations are provided by the City Health Department if the parent desires.  A Dental examination is also required. These documents are expected in the office no later than September 15th of each new school year. 8th Grade  Vision screenings are provided at school each year. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that

evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child, your child in 8th grade will be screened. New students/Out of State Physical examination, including a record of immunizations and proof of lead screening is required by state law prior to entrance into these grades. Any child not in compliance with the health exams will be asked to remain at home until this exam is completed. Any students new to Cathedral School will be required to show evidence of having received two (2) doses of live measles virus vaccine, the first dose at least 12 months of age and the second dose no less than a month after the first or other proof of immunity described in this part. Proof of immunity shall be documented evidence of having received vaccine or proof of disease verified by a health care provide. All students must be in compliance with the Illinois State Law Regulations concerning immunizations. Any child who is not in compliance by October 15 of the current school year will be asked to remain at home until the child has the proper immunizations. Immunizations are provided by the City Health Department if the parent desires.  A Dental examination is required, and this for is due prior to May 15th.  Vision screenings are provided at school each year. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child, all new Cathedral students will be screened.  Hearing Screenings are given to any new Cathedral students.  Eye Examination and Physical Exams are due prior to September 15. A Dental exam is required prior to May 15th.

Students with IEP’s  Vision screenings are provided at school each year. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child, your child with an ISP or teacher concerns will be screened.  Hearing Screenings are given to any Cathedral students IEP’s and/or teacher concerns.

Athletic participants  Any student wishing to participate in sports must have a sports physical prior to the first day of practice for that sport.  The sports physical must be within the last calendar year and not expire during that season of the sport in which the student will be participating.

It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the school of any physical abnormalities. For example: birth defects, allergies, epilepsy, diabetes, etc. Transfer Students Students applying for Admission in Grades 1-8 must present a copy of their current report card, standardized test results, and IEP (individual education plan) if available. These will be reviewed to determine whether the program at Cathedral School will meet the educational needs of the students. An interview with the student is part of the admission process. Upon entrance or transfer to Cathedral, records will be requested from the school a child previously attended.

All new students will be given a trial period (1st quarter) in which to prove himself/herself both socially and academically. If during this trial period there are any problems, a student may be asked to withdraw his/her attendance at Cathedral School. This will be at the discretion of the principal and/or pastor.

Health – Accident Insurance Insurance forms are included in the registration packets. If school insurance is needed, a completed form and money must be filled out and mailed by the parents. According to the diocese, it is normal procedure for parents who choose not to insure their children under the school accident plan sign a Waiver of Responsibility that states that they provide their own insurance coverage or will be responsible for payment of any accident expense. Waivers are in the school office.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Tuition Rates It costs $8,000 to educate one student at Cathedral School.

Parishioner Rate 1st Child - $3,130 2nd Child - $1,255 3rd Child - $965

Non-Parishioner Rate 1st Child - $3,900 2nd & 3rd Child - $2,400

3 & 4 Year Old Pre-K $4,100/student

Registration Fees (Non-Refundable) Pre K 3 & 4 thru 8th grade - $125/family

RenWeb School Management Software $10 /year/ student for re-enrolling students $20 / year / new students

Technology & Chromebook Fees Technology Fee for K-8th Grade - $75/family (non-refundable)

Chromebook Fee for 6-8th Grade - $100/student (Refundable at graduation – fee will be applied to your last tuition payment. If you leave prior to graduation, fee is not refundable for any reason.)

Extended Day $7.50/day on regular school days $11.00/day on 11:30am dismissal days $5.00 for every 5 minutes of late pick-up after 5:30pm *Extended Day accounts that are more than 30 days past due will result in loss of Extended Day use. Once an account is brought current, services can again be utilized.

Financial Fees NSF Fee - $25.00/bounced check or EFT transaction $25.00 late fee for required paperwork

Financial Aid Guidelines Financial Assistance is available for all families at Cathedral School. Financial Aid will be award to active and financially current Parishioners based on financial need first. After financial aid is awarded to Parishioners, any remaining financial aid will be awarded to financially current non-parishioner families based on financial need. Financial aid will not be given to ANY FAMILY that is past due on their tuition account at the time of application.

Lunch Fees K – 3rd Grade - $2.50/day 4th – 8th Grade - $3.00/day Lunch & Snack Milk - $54/year/student

Tuition Credits There are several ways you can earn Tuition Credits. Please be aware that Tuition Credits have no cash value and are non-transferrable. Tuition Credits are not available to any family that has a past due account.

New Family Referral Program Refer a family to Cathedral School, and at the end of the year, if both families are financially current, the referring family will receive a $300 Tuition Credit for the next school year. Some restrictions apply; see New Family Referral Program Form on our website.

Pre-K to Kindergarten Discount If you have a student in the Pre-K 4 program and you decide to stay at Cathedral School for Kindergarten and beyond, you will receive a $500 Tuition Credit at the beginning of Kindergarten. In order to receive this discount, you must have paid your registration fee and turned in all applicable paperwork.

Legacy Discount If you are a graduate of Cathedral School, and enroll your child, you will earn a $250 Tuition Credit at the start of each year as long as you are financially current. Payments - Most of the school payments are made through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) located on our school website. Any regular check or cash payments must be sent to the school office and placed in a school envelope designating how the

16 payment will be applied. Please use a separate check for milk, lunch and extended day as these are separate accounts.

Parishioner Rate – To receive the parishioner rate, a family must be registered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, worship regularly, participate in Parish/School activities, and participate in Parish/School fundraising. If it is determined that you are receiving the parishioner rate but not participating in the above mentioned, your tuition rate will be adjusted to the non-parishioner rate. If a Tuition payment is thirty (30) calendar days overdue, Cathedral School may impose any or all of the following sanctions, at the School’s sole discretion, unless special payment arrangements have been made in writing signed by the School Principal or Business Manager.

Sanctioned actions include: a. Assess late fees b. Withholding Academic Records c. Disallowing Student’s participation in sports or other school activities d. Withdrawing Student from class participation e. Withdrawing Student from school f. Use a collection agency g. File a claim in court A family with an unpaid balance for the current school year may not register for the following school year until the tuition and fees for the current school year is paid in full, unless special arrangements have been made in a writing signed by the Pastor. School records, diplomas or transcripts will not be released until all tuition and other fees have been paid in full.

Tuition Payment options There are three methods of tuition payment:

Option 1 requires full payment by the first day of school.

Option 2 requires half payment by the first day of school and the second payment due at the beginning of the second semester.

Option 3 is enrollment in the EFT monthly payment plan through RenWeb. Payments can be setup once or twice a month, on the 1st and/or 15th of each month for 10 months or 12 months. Enrolling for EFT can only be done through the Business Manager.

We encourage parents with financial difficulties to arrange a meeting with the Principal or Pastor. Cathedral will not accept any students whose financial obligations to another Catholic School have not been met.

Financial Aid

No student is to be deprived of a Catholic education due to lack of finances. However, parents are expected to make every effort in taking care of their responsibilities in this area. Financial aid assistance applications are available online: http://factstuitionaid.com. Deadline for applying is April 15, 2018. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE.

You must fill out this form to be eligible for financial aid and you must complete your Family Volunteer hours. No family will receive financial aid that consists of more than half the cost of tuition. No financial aid will be given if the previous school year account is in arrears.

Family Volunteer Hours (FVH) - Giving of your time and talent Family volunteer hours are vital to the success of Cathedral School. Volunteer hours strengthen the Cathedral community, keep the school’s operating costs low, and help with day to day operations. Every married family will be required to log 20 volunteer hours over the course of one school year. Families that our divorced or single family homes are required to complete 10 hours per parent. If you are a single parent you are only required to complete 10 volunteer hours. Hours may be completed by parents, guardians, grandparents or close family members or friends. FVH will be tracked quarterly, and you will be given a report at the end of each quarter notifying you of your progress. Each volunteer hour is worth $20. If at the end of the year (the last day of school), you have not completed your 20 hours, you will be assessed $20 for every incomplete volunteer hour. FVH that are not completed will be treated as unpaid tuition. You may opt out of volunteering all together, but you will be charged $400 and this amount will be added to your yearly tuition. A list of qualifying events can be found on our website. All volunteers within the school or the parish must take Protecting God’s Children (Child safety class) and have a background check processed prior to volunteering for any school event where children are present.

Tuition Refunds - If the Student is withdrawn, for any reason other than request by Cathedral School or mutual agreement, during the school year, remaining tuition through the end of the year must be paid in full unless the School principal or Business Manager agrees in writing to refund a portion of the remaining tuition. Otherwise there will be no refund, credit or reduction for withdrawal, absences, vacations, snow days, illnesses, holidays or moving. If a Student is asked to leave or withdraw from the School, the undersigned is responsible for the prorated annual Tuition through the end of the month in which the Student withdraws. Prepaid Tuition will be refunded in full only if cancellation is made, in writing to the School, within fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the first day classes are scheduled to start.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Academic Curriculum The core curriculum guidelines, consistent with the State of Illinois Learning Standards, are followed for the teaching of all secular subject areas. Cathedral offers students opportunities for growth in the following major subject areas:

Religion, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Math, Computer Literacy, Art, Music, Physical Education, Handwriting K-5, and more.

Academics Probation A student whose academic performance indicates serious deficiencies may be placed on academic probation. Academic probation will impact a student’s ability to participate in extra-curricular activities, including all clubs and sports. Students on academic probation will be placed on a one week improvement plan. At the end of the one week period, if the grade average is still an F, that student will not be able to participate in any extracurricular activities until the grade has improved to a passing grade of a C-.

Accreditation Cathedral School is accredited through the State of Illinois - Department of Education and the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois – Office of Catholic Education.

Counseling A licensed clinical social worker or a Doctor is available at school one day per week to work with students in need of services. The Doctor has experience working with students in a school setting and has specific training in child development, violence prevention, and behavior management. Counselors may see students up to three times without parental notification or consent. After the third visit, parents will be notified. If serious concerns exist, parents will be promptly notified whenever the concerns arise.

Counseling services provide help to improve skills in respect for self and others. From that, students can resolve conflict and deal effectively with stress in order to focus on learning. Requests for counseling can be made by the student, the teacher, administrator, counselor or parents/guardian by contacting the school principal. All information is confidential and separate from academic records.

Enrichment Classes Enrichment classes are offered to select students in grades 4-8 whose educational needs and abilities exceed those provided by the general curriculum. Students selected for this program need to meet the following criteria: A score of 7, 8, or 9 in three of the five areas of Math Composite, Reading Composite, Language Composite, Science or Social Studies, OR a CSI of 120 or higher on the Iowa Basic Skills test. If your student meets the criteria, they must ALSO maintain superior grades of no lower than a B in their core subjects, have satisfactory conduct, and teacher approval. The principal will have the right to defer a student. The Enrichment lessons are provided to these students twice a week for 40 minutes conducted by the Enrichment teacher in SJB.

Eucharistic Celebrations All students will attend school Mass once each week, every Thursday at 8:30am. Occasionally, this day may change depending on the liturgical calendar. The children learn to participate at Mass by singing,

19 reading and praying with one another. Non-Catholic students will attend as well, but we understand that they may not participate fully in our celebration. Non-Catholic students may not receive the Eucharist during Mass, but they may receive a blessing. Non-Catholic students should still be respectful of our beliefs by quietly praying or meditating, while attending Mass with the entire school. This Mass does not take the place of regular attendance at Sunday Mass, which is the responsibility of parents/guardians. Catholic children enrolled in our school are expected to attend Mass each Sunday (or Saturday evening).

Eighth Grade Class Trip The principal, 8th Grade teacher and development director will appoint the eighth grade room representatives. These representatives will be in charge of coordinating the eighth grade class trip and all fundraising events. Any student that does not participate in the fundraising will not be able to go. During the last month of school, under the direction of the teacher, the eighth grade class determines the conduct and rules required to be eligible for the class trip. All eighth graders agree to the class conduct rules making them eligible for the trip. The class trip chaperones will be the eighth grade room representatives, the eighth grade class teacher and either the principal or one other school staff representative.

Field Trips Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals. All grades do not always have the same number of field trips.

• Field trips are permissible for all grades when advanced planning, location, and the experience insure a successful learning opportunity. • Individual teachers, in consultation with the Administration, reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct. • A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip activity. Verbal permission cannot be accepted. • Permission slips are due to the classroom teacher forty-eight (48) hours before the planned event or date specified by the teacher. Students who fail to meet the deadline requirements will not be allowed to attend the field trip due to scheduling issues. • All students are required to wear uniforms unless the principal approves alternate attire. • A fax does not take the place of an original signature. • A telephone call cannot be accepted in lieu of the proper field trip permission slip. • Parents may refuse to permit their child from participating in a field trip by stating so on the form. Students who do not attend a field trip will remain at home with the parent and will be marked absent for the day. • All monies collected for the field trip are non-refundable. • All field trip drivers and chaperones must:

o Have taken Protecting God’s Children for Adults (Care will be taken to keep field trip expense to a minimum.) o Field trips are to be planned from September through mid-May. o Be properly insured, have a copy of their driver’s license, and proof of insurance on file in the school office. (yearly)

If a parent wishes to attend or drive for a field trip, diocesan policy requires that you attend a “Protecting God’s Children for Adults” training session, complete the Certification and Authorization Document authorizing a criminal history background check, receive the Policy on Sexual Abuse of Minors by Church Personnel and Policy on Working with Minors, and sign certifying to the understanding of both policies and agreeing to adhere to the contents of same. One adult chaperone will be present for every eight students. No siblings will be allowed on field trips.

Grading Scale

The following marking code is used for Grades 1-8: o “+” and “-“may be used with grades listed o An “*” or a “+” next to the subject area indicates that the child’s program has been adjusted based on their individual needs (ISP – individual service plan).

Achievement Percentile Conduct/Effort A - Outstanding 93-100 1 - Outstanding B - Above Average 85-92 2 - Very Good C - Average 77-84 3 - Satisfactory D - Below Average 70-76 4 - Little Effort F - Failure 69 or below 5 - No Effort

K-2 will be graded S (satisfactory) and U (unsatisfactory) for Computer, Art, PE and Music. Kindergarteners receive report cards for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters.

Regular Grading Scale A+ 100-99 A 98-95 A- 94-93 B+ 92-91 B 90-87 B- 86-85 C+ 84-83 C 82-79 C- 78-77 D+ 76-75 D 74-72

D- 71-70 F 69 and below

Graduation Requirements A student must successfully complete and pass the course of study for 8th grade at Cathedral School and pass the State of Illinois and United States Constitution tests before being awarded a diploma of graduation. Failure to comply with any of the above will require summer school or tutoring before a diploma is awarded. Any student that receives an F average for (2) or more major subjects in (2) quarters, will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremonies, however the diploma will not be signed and the report card/records will state “transferred to ninth grade” instead of “promoted to ninth grade”.

All tuition and fees must be paid before Graduation. Tuition and fees not paid can result in the student not being allowed to participate in Graduation. Diplomas may also be held for students who have a balance remaining.

Homework

1 General Background a Formal homework is assigned to help students become self-reliant and self-directed. Assignments are designed to reinforce daily lessons, to supplement and enrich class work, and to prepare for certain lessons through various experiences.

b A suggested minimum amount of time a child should spend in home study each evening follows: i Grade K-1 20 minutes, ii Grade 2-3 30 minutes, iii Grade 4-6 60 minutes, iv Grade 7-8 90 minutes.

c Since each student has different capabilities and interests; it would be difficult to denote the specific amount of time to be spent on an assignment. If a problem arises, the teacher should be contacted.

2 Homework Policy Due to Illness

a When children are away from school, they are required to make up all the work which they have missed. Students will receive documentation prepared by a classmate or the teacher regarding work covered during the absence. A parent should notify the school secretary before noon, if they would like the assignments prepared for pick-up after school. When a student has been absent for 3 or more days the work should be taken home so that the child does not fall too far behind.

b Arrangements for regular classroom tests missed because of an absence are to be made with the teacher upon return to school. These tests must be taken within one week of the original test date.

c Students who are absent due to illness have one day for each day of absence to make up the missed assignments. For example, a student who was absent three (3) days would be given three (3) school days to complete the missed work.

3 Homework Policy Due to Vacation a Teachers are not always able to prepare assignments in advance for students going on extended vacations. A teacher must be flexible in lesson planning, allowing additional instructional time when students have difficulty learning a new concept or less instruction when they grasp the concept quickly. This flexibility makes giving the assignments early inaccurate.

Library Reading is encouraged at all grade levels. Library periods will be assigned to all grade levels so students may take advantage of our library/meeting room.

Borrowed books are to be returned on time and in good condition. A fine of one canned good per week is required for overdue books. (Canned goods will be donated to local food banks) Books damaged or lost must be paid for by the student before any other materials may be checked out. Students who have lost or damaged books do not receive quarterly report cards until their account is cleared.

Lice/Nits Head lice can spread through a school environment very quickly. For this reason we ask that children are routinely checked for this major nuisance. If head lice or nits are found on a child, the child must be treated, and the school office must be notified. A parent or guardian will be called for any student who appears to have head lice. Cathedral has a no-nit policy; no student may be in school until all nits have been remove from the hair. School personnel will recheck heads of students and their sibling before they return to the classroom and will also recheck seven to ten days after treatment. They may occasionally check the heads of students in classrooms where there have been infestations.

Movie Policy Videos may be used to enhance the classroom curriculum. The criteria for selecting a video for use in the classroom are the film’s intrinsic educational value, its actual fit into the curriculum, and its harmony with Catholic faith and morals. Only “G” rated movies may be shown in the classroom. If a movie has another rating and the teacher wishes to show it in the classroom, the teacher will discuss it with the principal and, if approved, parents will be notified and given a permission slip for student viewing. Students not having permission to view the film will be supervised in another room during the video. At times videos may be shown for entertainment or as a reward for good behavior.

Promotion / Retention Policy Advancement to the next grade at Cathedral School is based on a student’s daily performance, test results, recommendations of teachers, and the student’s ability to complete work successfully on a more advanced level. Students earning two (2) failing grades in two (2) major subjects will be retained but may not return to Cathedral School.

Pursuant to Diocesan Policy Section 45 and recent amendment to Illinois School Code (ILCS 5/10-20.9a) schools are prohibited from promoting a student to the next higher grade for any reason not related to all academic performance of the student. Students may not be promoted based upon the age of the student or any other social reason. Promotion to the next grade depends on successful completion of all subject areas. Determination of a child's repeating a grade will be made only after collaboration between parents, teachers, student, and Administration. Parents will be informed by February if retention is a possibility. Serious discussion will take place no later than early March. The Administration may recommend the repetition of a grade, tutoring, or summer school classes as a requirement for promotion when, after conferences with teachers and parents, it is believed that such action will better prepare the student academically or emotionally for the next grade.

Report Cards Report Cards are important tools for communication. Report Cards will be given four (4) times during the academic school year or every nine (9) weeks. No student will be given a Progress Report or Report Card if tuition, hot lunch, or Extended Day fees are in arrears. Progress Reports will be sent home mid- way between each nine-week grading period. Report cards are each nine-weeks.

Notices of late/missing homework assignments will be sent home weekly to allow parents to work with their students and see that work is kept current. No student will be given a Report Card if tuition, hot lunch, or Extended Day fees are in arrears.

Prayer Parents are the first teachers of prayer. Teaching your child to pray will help your child develop in their faith. At school, teachers and students pray at the beginning of the day, before and after lunch, at the end of the day, and during religion. These and other opportunities for prayer help to instill a sense of the presence of God throughout the day.

RCIC Program New students from Catholic families (Grades 2 through 8) who have not yet received the Sacraments may participate in the RCIC Program. In this program, the students will be instructed and prepared for the Sacraments of Initiation. Younger children who have not been baptized, may receive this Sacrament after consultation with the priests of our parish

Sacramental Program

The sacramental life of the children in the Catholic tradition is an important component of the religion program at Cathedral School. All children are encouraged to receive the Sacraments often. Students in Grades 3-8 are given an opportunity to go to confession before Christmas and Easter and are encouraged to receive the Sacrament at other times throughout the year. First Reconciliation and First Eucharist are received in second grade. The Sacrament of Confirmation is received every other year, in 7th and 8th grade.

Service Hours In order to fulfill our mission, all of our students are encouraged to perform community service. All 7th and 8th grade students, on confirmation years, are required to complete 30 hours of community service. Service hours should be split between: Home, School, Community, and Parish with no more than 10 hours in one area. The confirmation teacher will facilitate this requirement prior to confirmation.

Saint John Bosco (SJB) Program Cathedral School provides a program for students who require more one-on-one attention due to identified needs. The SJB program is in session five days per week and is limited to students who have been identified through District 186 with an ISP (individual service plan). The SJB teachers work together with District 186, the classroom teacher(s), and the parents in order to provide what the student needs in order to see continued success at school.

Special Education Cathedral School cooperates with District 186 in the identification and testing of students who may qualify for special education services. (IEP/ISP) Teachers may request a student to be tested to diagnose potential specific learning disabilities. These students may only be tested with parent permission. After testing is completed, parents will be contacted to meet with District 186 and the students teachers along with a member of our SJB staff. Students that qualify will receive special instruction with our SJB program.

Student Records Cathedral School adheres to the Buckley Amendment (Family Education Rights and Privacy) regarding access to student records. Records of students transferring to other schools will only be sent through the US Mail. No records will be given to parents to transport to the new school. No records will be sent to transferring schools of students whose financial commitment is in arrears.

Testing The Iowa Basic Skills standardized test is administered to students in Grades K through 8 each year in the Spring. Students in Grades 5 and 8 take the ACRE religion test each February. Students will be conditionally accepted into Kindergarten with full acceptance contingent on displayed readiness on the Kindergarten Diagnostic Instrument – (KDI-2). Students will not be permitted to retake a quiz or a test in order to improve their academic standing.

Transfer of Students

Notice of withdrawal of a student should be made by the parent in writing to the Principal in advance of the withdrawal date. This enables the school to prepare necessary information and settle accounts. No student records (other than health/immunization records and grade placement) will be forwarded to another school until accounts have been settled. (See section on Student Records for transcript information.)

Withdrawal Policy Families must notify the school in writing if a student is withdrawing from the school. The school reserves the right to withhold records (except physicals, immunization record, and placement) for students who withdraw with an outstanding balance.

Technology Cathedral School requires that all computer resources, including the Internet, are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. The Technology Coordinator and Principal have developed guidelines which outline the manner in which the Internet is to be used by Cathedral faculty, staff, and students. Failure to use the Internet in the manner described will result in the revocation of access privileges. A copy of the Acceptable Use Policy is provided to each faculty, staff, and student at the beginning of the school year. Consent forms must be signed and returned to the Technology Coordinator in order for faculty, staff, and students to have access to the Internet and e-mail.

COMMUNICATION INFORMATION

Authority The immediate direction of the school and its instructional program is delegated to the principal. All teachers and staff members have the authority to correct any/all children enrolled at Cathedral School as the need arises. Mutual respect is to be shown by all. If children fail to respond to the correction of a teacher, staff member and/or principal, the parent(s) will be notified.

Grievance Procedure In order to help a parent/student satisfy a grievance they may have with a teacher, administrator, or the school in general, and do so in an effective, efficient manner, it has been established that the following order should be respected: 1. The teacher involved 2. The school principal 3. The pastor 4. The Diocesan Director of Education 5. The Diocesan Board of Catholic Education

Emergency information

Emergency names and telephone numbers of two individuals besides the parents should be kept updated and on file. These contacts should be persons able to come to the school to attend to your student in case of emergencies, should the parents not be available.

Home-School Communication In order to insure that all communication from school reaches home in a timely manner, Cathedral School uses a daily folder system. Official folders containing all correspondence are sent home each day and are to be returned the following day. Your child is responsible for emptying the contents of his/her folder when it is returned to their homeroom. There is a $2.00 replacement charge for lost folders. It is highly recommended that parents and teachers keep in touch in order to monitor a child’s progress in school. Parents may also call the office if they have questions or concerns that need to be addressed. All are encouraged to visit our school website at www.cathedralschoolil.org . Cathedral also communicates with parents through phone, text and email communications through RenWeb online school information system. School Messenger is available to all parents that sign up for these messages from the school via the automated system. Sign up is available at the beginning of the year, or by contacting the office at any time.

Parent/Teacher Conferences Mandatory Parent/Teacher conferences will be held once a year. Detailed information will be sent out prior to conferences. Students may be required to attend the conference, at the request of the teacher or administration. Parents requiring additional conferences during the school year may make arrangements with the individual teachers. Parents are asked not to expect conferences or meetings with teachers in the early morning as teachers prepare for the day (between 7:30am and 8:15am) or any time during the school day while class is in session. As partners in the education process it is important that the teachers and parents make arrangements to meet when either partner feels it is in the student’s best interest. Open communication is encouraged to avoid problems.

Principal Communication / Teacher Communication The Principal is available to the parents during school hours and in emergencies, after hours. Please call the office to make an appointment or contact the Principal by voicemail or email. All attempts will be made to respond to all requests within 24 -48 hours. An emergency will be handled immediately. Teachers may not be disturbed during class (8am -3pm). Teachers will be available for conferences after school, normally by appointment only. All teachers have access to email and voicemail, where you can make arrangements to talk with them by phone during the teacher’s preparation times or by email when time allows. All emails and/or phone calls should be returned within 24 hours.

School Messenger

Cathedral provides the School Messenger telephone advisement system. Parents will receive phone messages for emergencies and special events/reminders. Parents are responsible to keep the office informed of any phone number changes.

School Office Hours Office hours are 7:30am - 3:30pm Monday – Friday, except on holidays, and/or school dismissal days.

Student/Family Directory Parents may access the Student Directory listing students’ and parents’ names, addresses, and home telephone numbers through RenWeb. The Student Directory should be used to acquaint parents with the names of their children(s) classmates and parents. They should not be used or sold for other purposes

DISCIPLINE INFORMATION

The goal of Cathedral School is to instill positive and productive behavior in all students

Student Code of Conduct 1 Philosophy a. In accordance with the stated philosophy of the school which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, each student will be considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. b. All students are expected to cooperate with the spirit and policies of the school which are designed to foster mature development and personal responsibility. c. This requires courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment, and many other factors which the students’ sense of appropriateness will indicate to them.

2 On-Campus Conduct a. Special effort is to be made in the lunchroom and on the playground to be kind and considerate of others. There is to be no bullying, harassment or intimidation – which may include jokes, rumors, demeaning comments, gestures, pranks, threats or verbal, written or physical actions of any kind. b. Public displays of affection are not acceptable c. The Principal reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of an action if any doubt arises.

3 Off-Campus Conduct a. The administration of Cathedral School reserves the right to discipline its students for off-campus behavior that is not in line with behavior expectations of its students during the course of the school day.

4 Cheating/Plagiarism a. Cheating or plagiarism of any type will not be tolerated. b. Students who cheat will receive a zero on the assignment or test and the parents will be notified. c. Students who choose to cheat/ plagiarize face a failing grade, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.

Lunchroom Behavior Proper behavior is expected in the lunch room so that personnel can hear and be heard. Respect is to be shown to all cafeteria personnel. All food is to be eaten in the cafeteria. No food or drink is to be taken outside or to the classroom. Parents may eat with their child upon approval from the Principal.

School Behavior Cathedral strives to put into practice a philosophy of strong moral discipline. Rules are displayed in each room. All students have a responsibility to obey the rules. Respect and responsibility on the part of each student is expected in the classroom. Actions that disrupt the teacher or other students will result in consequences. The school reserves the right to search student property including: jacket, coat, backpack, and desk, if cause is suspected.

Police Questioning When students become involved with law enforcement officers, the officer will be asked to confer with the student when he/she is not under the jurisdiction of the school, if this can be arranged. The following steps will be taken to cooperate with the authorities:

o The officer shall properly identify him/herself. o The parent(s) or guardian shall be notified immediately and informed of the intent of the law enforcement authorities. o The student’s parent(s)/guardian have/has a right to be present if the conference is held in the school. o If the student’s parent(s)/guardian cannot be located, authorities are not to confer with the students unless they produce a warrant.

If there is a warrant or if it is impossible for the parent(s) or guardian to be present and they request it, the administrator will be a witness to the conference held in the school.

Search and Seizure “The principal and/or her designee may search a student’s person or belongings at school or at any school-sponsored event if the administration has reasonable belief that contraband, illegal substances or objects, or stolen property are being concealed or if a violation of a school rule related to maintaining discipline in the school has been committed. The school expressly retains the right to search at any time a student’s desk which is the property of the school.

Administration may remove or confiscate any object which is illegal or contrary to school policy.

The school will report to government authorities the possession of illicit devices, weapons or other contraband.”

Weapon-Juvenile Court Act of 1987 The Juvenile Court Act of 1987 requires officials in both public and private schools to immediately notify a local law enforcement agency and the office of the principal in the event that they observe any person in possession of a firearm on school ground.

Corporal Punishment Corporal Punishment is prohibited by the Diocese and by State Law. Any intentional infliction of bodily harm, slapping, paddling or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions should be reported to the Principal immediately.

Discipline Helping children to grow in self-discipline and with a respectful attitude toward authority should be the constant aim of both parents and staff. Our disciplinary code is designed to: o Maintain order, not regimentation, an atmosphere conducive to studying o Be prompt and prepared o Respect for authority, and respect for self and the rights of all individuals o Respect for property, for self, for others o Respect learning for all o To develop good character traits o To provide opportunities for the development of leadership o To assist in forming intelligent and virtuous Christian citizens

The consequences for non-compliance for misbehavior are: o Warning with an interaction o K-4 Time out; 5-8 Teacher/Student interaction after class o Behavior Improvement Plan K-5 / Check system - Detention 6-8 o Phone call to parent o Meeting with parents o Meeting with principal o In-school suspension o Out-of-school suspension o Expulsion

In addition to the school rules, teachers may have their own classroom rules which students are expected to follow. These rules will be posted in the classroom and the teachers will discuss the

30 classroom rules and expectations with the students. Parents will be notified of the teacher’s classroom rules and consequences at Open House at the beginning of each school year.

Detention Detention may be issued for a breach of classroom and/or school rules. Teachers will communicate with parents via phone regarding student detentions. The day, date, and time of the detention are at the discretion of the teacher and/or principal. Detention takes precedence over appointments, practices, lessons, ballgames, etc. Normally, detentions are served from 3:00pm -3:30pm.

Upon earning the 6th detention a student will then serve an in-school suspension. If a 12th detention is earned, a student will then serve two (2) in-school suspensions.

In School -Service Project An in-school service requirement is a disciplinary measure, which would require a student to do some mandatory service project as directed by the school teacher or Principal. An example: cleaning lunch room tables because of throwing food or being disrespectful in lunchroom.

Serious Misbehavior Serious misbehavior includes: • Inappropriate language and/or actions towards others • Forgery of parents’ or guardians signature • Cheating • Any behavior which could harm self or others

More serious misbehavior Which could involve such harm would include, but not be limited to: • Smoking on school property • Possession and/or use of alcohol or drugs on school property • Fighting • The possession of a dangerous weapon on school property • Bullying of any kind (social and cyberbullying included) Engagement in online social networking sites such as, but not limited to, MySpace.com, Xanga, Friendster, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content of the student’s social networking site/account(s) includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students or the parish. • Use of racial or ethnic epithets directed at fellow students, staff or anyone else on or near school property

The progressive consequences for serious misbehavior are: • Detention with phone call • Meeting with parents, principal and teacher(s) as well as loss of extra-curricular (including sports and field trips) activities for two weeks

• Immediate removal from school/next day in-school suspension as well as loss of extracurricular (including sports & field trips) activities for the remainder of the school year. • Out of school suspension • Expulsion

Suspension Repeated violations of school policy or more serious disregard of rules may result in a student receiving a suspension or in-school suspension for one or more days.

Serious violations which may result in suspension and/or expulsion include: • Possession of alcoholic substances • Possession of, use of, and/or distribution of drugs • Defiance of school authority and/or rules • Gang-related affiliation and/or display of any gang-related symbols • Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives) • Theft • Smoking • Bringing matches or the like to school • Continual or frequent unexcused absences • Repeated violation of school policies with no apparent effort to improve. Those students who have been suspended and/or expelled along with their parents may request and be given a hearing by the principal and pastor. Results of the hearing will be final.

Violence, in any form, will not be tolerated in our school. Parents may be called to come for children who have problems with temper outbursts, flagrant disobedience and/or disrespect and verbal or physical abuse of others.

If a child is suspended, the school reserves the right to separate a child from school for home study until a case is settled. The classroom teachers will distribute additional information regarding our behavior plan.

Students who are given an in-school suspension (Every 6 detentions is an in-school suspension) will be required to report to school each day and work with a substitute teacher paid for ($75.00) by the suspended student’s parents.

Students who receive an out-of-school suspension will not be allowed on campus during the time of their suspension. Students must complete all class work and tests from the days of suspension. Students who are suspended (in or out of school) will not be permitted to attend school functions including: sports practices, games, or school dances.

Expulsion

Expulsion is an extremely serious matter. Students who pose a threat to themselves or to others may be expelled from Cathedral School. When all other means have failed and expulsion is being considered, the following procedures are to be observed: The student is to be suspended for a period not to exceed one week. The parents are to meet with the pastor and principal in hope of finding a solution that will forestall the necessity of expulsion. The pastor, in consultation with the principal, is to make the final decision and to report the decision to the parents. If expulsion is necessary, he will help make arrangements for the further education of the child, if at all possible. If expulsion is necessary, the date of withdrawal and the word “withdrew” are sufficient for the permanent record. Students who have been expelled will not be allowed to return to the school without prior permission from the Principal.

UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE

All students must be in uniform every day. Throughout the year, there will be out-of-uniform days which will be announced. A dress code for such days is included in this section. If there is a time when the prescribed uniform cannot for some legitimate reason be worn, a note from the parent/guardian must be written to the Principal.

Students who are out of uniform without this excuse will be sent to the office and the parent will be called to bring the proper clothing.

Cathedral School sweatshirts (no hoodies) which can be worn with the school uniform are ordered through the school only.

Uniform components (pants, shorts, skirts, skorts, shifts, blouses, shirts, vests, and sweaters) may be purchased through Dennis Uniform Company or any other retailer. Dunbar plaid shifts and skirts may only be purchased from Dennis Uniform Company® www.dennisuniform.com School Code G1FGV, Luers/Kidz Klothes ®, or any other retailor that sells uniforms.

Uniform Guidelines (GIRLS)

Shift/Jumper - Grades Pre-Kindergarten thru Grade 3 Dunbar plaid shift Style #788. Navy blue tights or shorts must be worn at all times.

Skirts - Grades 4 thru 8 Dunbar plaid four pleat skirt #868, khaki, or navy skirt no shorter than 2” above the knee. Skirts cannot be rolled at the waist and should fit properly.

Skorts - Grades 4 thru 8 Dunbar plaid #35210, khaki or navy blue

Blouses White oxford uniform blouse Knit polo shirt White or navy blue - Short or long sleeves. No logos, monograms, lace. Shirts must be tucked in at all times.

Turtlenecks White or navy blue knit shirts may be worn

Shorts Navy or khaki twill uniform walking shorts may be worn from April 1st to Nov. 1st

Slacks Navy or khaki twill uniform slacks (No cargo pants, no back flap pockets)

Belt Navy blue, black, or dark brown belts are required to be worn with all pants or shorts except with the smaller sized primary student’s uniform pants with elastic waists. No print or designs.

Cardigans Cardinal/burgundy (same shade) or navy crew neck cardigan

Sweatshirts Navy, burgundy and/or gray imprinted Cathedral sweatshirts (no hoodies)

Socks White, navy, or black socks, White or navy knee socks or tights (solid & plain). Socks must be worn at all times. Socks must match and need to be noticeably visible above the shoe. No logos, lace or trim on socks.

T – Shirts T-shirts worn under polo shirts must be solid white or navy blue.

Uniform Guidelines (BOYS)

Slacks Navy or Khaki uniform trousers. NO CARGO PANTS

Shorts Navy or khaki twill uniform walking shorts may be worn from April 1st to Nov. 1st. No CARGO SHORTS

Belt Navy blue or black or dark brown belts are required to be worn with all pants or shorts except with the smaller sized primary student’s uniform pants with elastic waists. No print or designs.

Shirts White oxford, white or navy knit polo shirt. White or navy blue turtlenecks may be worn

Cardigans Cardinal/burgundy (same shade) or navy V-neck cardigan

Sweatshirt Navy, burgundy and/or gray imprinted Cathedral sweatshirts (no hoodies)

Socks Navy, white or black socks (solid & plain – no logos or writing) Socks must be worn at all times. Socks must match and need to be noticeably visible above the shoe.

T – Shirts T-shirts worn under polo shirts must be solid white or navy blue. (No printing should be seen through the outer shirt.)

Uniform Guidelines for ALL Students

Pride Our students should learn to have pride in their appearance. Uniforms should be neat and clean at all times. Free from tears, rips and holes. Students should have pride in their appearance and should have good hygiene.

Shoes • Shoes with laces will be tied tightly • All shoes must be safe for walking on stairs and on the playground • Shoes must have toes and heels enclosed • No boots, knee-high tennis shoes, no five toe shoes i.e.: skele-toes • Snow boots may be worn to school in bad weather but they may not be worn indoors • Roller shoes, ballerina shoes, slippers, crocs, moccasins, plastic shoes, flip flops, clogs and sandals are never allowed • No shoes w/a high heel

Hair

• Hair should be kept neat and clean at all times • Haircuts or hairstyles that demonstrate any contemporary fad will not be allowed • Only natural hair colors will be allowed • Hair pieces may not be worn, no feathers or hair extensions allowed • No logos, designs, may be cut into students’ hair • Bangs may not cover the eyes, as it would impede learning • Hair styling products must be used in moderation • Boys’ hair should be above the ears and shirt collar • No mustaches, beards or any facial hair for boys

Jewelry • Jewelry should be limited to one watch, one ring and simple crosses or holy medals on a narrow silver or gold chain. • Girls may wear one pair of stud earrings and not to be larger or longer than the earlobe. • No earrings for boys • Hoop or dangling earrings are a safety hazard and are not allowed. • No body piercing is allowed

Tattoos  Tattoos, real or fake, should be covered at all times Makeup / Nail Polish • No make-up is allowed for any grade. • Nail polish in any color other than clear is not allowed. Fake nails are not allowed. • Nail polish that is clear is allowed • No lipstick or lip gloss of any kind

Important Dress Code Reminders

o During the months of January and February girls may wear plain solid navy blue or gray sweatpants under their uniform during arrival, recess, and dismissal o Brownie/Scout Uniforms – Students may wear the Scout uniforms on meeting days o No hats, bandanas or hair wraps allowed o No coats/jackets/hoodies are allowed to be worn in the building o No pajama pants, and/or flannel pants

Dress code violations Students who violate the uniform policy will receive two written warnings. The third offense parents will be contacted, student will be denied participation in the next out-of- uniform day and a thirty (30) minute detention will be served. Girls that receive 3 written warnings for skirt length or no tights will NOT be allowed to wear skirts for the rest of the school year.

Enforcement of our dress code must have the total cooperation from students, parents and teachers.

Out-of-Uniform Guidelines Dollar Denim Days will be the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month and on other days as stated by the Principal. Unless it is stated differently, these days allow the uniform shirt to be worn with denim jeans that are in good condition and worn at the natural waistline. The required donation goes to the Mission Fund.

Occasionally we hold Free Dress Days where students have more flexibility in their choice of clothing. They may wear:

o Traditional denim blue jeans that are in good condition and worn at the natural waistline o T-shirts/sweatshirts with team or school names on them o Shorts/skorts/skirts no shorter than two inches above the knee o Jewelry (appropriate in design) o Dresses no shorter than two inches above the knee o Slacks o No skin tight pants such as: yoga pants o Shirts that reflect modesty and good taste

During field trips, all students will wear uniforms unless approved by the Principal.

A Good Guide: If you think you shouldn’t wear it, you shouldn’t.

All uniform regulations and guidelines are subject to the discretion of the principal.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act According to the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act, school principals, teachers, and staff members are mandated by state law to report suspicion of abuse or neglect to DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services). When a teacher or staff member reports such a suspicion to DCFS, he/she is to inform the principal of his/her report.

Asbestos Cathedral School in accordance with Federal Register 40CFR 763 Asbestos-Containing Materials in Schools, Final Rule (Asbestos Hazard Energy Act, AHERA), and Cathedral School has an Asbestos Management Plan located in the office. Cathedral School is in complete compliance of all OSHA policies and regulations. Asbestos information and an Asbestos Management plan are on file in the school office and can be reviewed during normal business hours.

Attendance / Absence

1 Student Absences a When a student is absent from school, a parent or guardian should notify the office by phone prior to 8:30 am. A student’s absence from school interferes with his/her academic progress. If the school has not been notified of an absence by 8:30 a.m., State law requires the school to contact the parent(s) to check on the absence. b Upon return to school after an absence of more than three days, a student is to present a written note signed by the child’s physician. c If a student goes home with a fever of 100 or more, that student should be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child has a fever, please keep him/her home until he/she is fever free for 24 hours without fever reducers. If they have been vomiting or have diarrhea, they should remain at home until they have been retaining food for over 12 hours. d A child who does not attend school may not attend any extracurricular activities after school. e The school calendar provides for extended weekends throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to schedule trips or family outings during these times so as to eliminate the need to interrupt a child’s learning process. Missed assignments are the student’s responsibility. If a student is to be away for a family trip, a letter of request is to be sent to the office for prior approval. Teachers are not required to give assignments in anticipation of a vacation. Students will make up their work upon returning to school. f Parents shall be notified and meet with the principal when unexcused absences occur. Students will not be allowed to make up work due to unexcused absences. g Students who are absent due to illness have one day for each day of absence to make up the missed assignments, quizzes or tests. For example, a student who was absent for three days will have three school days to complete the missed work. Tests must be made up within one week of the original test date. h When a student is absent for two or more days due to illness, a parent may call the office before 9:30am to arrange for homework assignments. Homework assignments may be picked up at the school office between 2:30pm and 3:30pm.

i For short absences, students should make arrangements with the teacher or classmates regarding assignments missed, when they return to school. j If a child is habitually absent from school the services of the truant officer, assigned to the local public school, will be enlisted. Excessive absences (40 days) including tardiness, can be cause for a student to be retained in the current grade for another year. This is the equivalent of missing a whole quarter of school, and the student would not have learned enough to be successful in subsequent years.

2 Absence –Late/Early Arrival/Departure a Students needing medical appointments during school hours require a phone call to the school or written note by the parent. Parents are required to sign out their child. If the

child returns to school during the same school day, he/she must be signed back into school in the office by a parent. b Students must report to the office before leaving the school building and upon returning from such an appointment. c Students who are away from school for an appointment lasting 2 hours or more will be counted as absent for ½ a day. Three (3) early withdrawals (each of which is less than 2 hours) are considered a one-half day absence.

3 Tardiness a In order for a student to be prepared for class, he/she must be in the classroom by 8:05 a.m. daily. Any children arriving after 8:15 a.m. are to report to the office for a tardy slip to be issued. b Any student who is tardy to school 3 times will have ½ day absence placed in their attendance record. This will happen for every 3 times a student is tardy to school. These will accumulate with all other absences. c Any student who is absent for more than 30 days will be required to repeat the grade. This is the equivalent of missing a whole quarter of school, and the student would not have learned enough to be successful in subsequent years.

4 Truancy a If a student is found to be truant, his/her parents will be contacted immediately. If the matter is not resolved between the family and the school administration, the truant officer with the local public school will be notified and asked to assist Cathedral School in addressing this matter.

Athletics / Clubs Cathedral School will follow the directives of the Springfield Catholic Athletic Association (SCAA) and/or IESA regarding sports.

Eligibility for Athletics To participate in sports or clubs, students must complete a physical examination and written statement from a physician attesting that they are able to participate. This must be submitted prior before participation in any practice sessions.

Academic eligibility of players will be handled on a weekly basis. Students will be notified by the principal via an “Athletic Ineligibility” letter if their student does not have grades at a passing level (C- or better in achievement or a 1, 2, or 3 in conduct and/or effort.) Grades that fall below these levels will affect a student’s eligibility to play. At the end of the week, a student is either reinstated or will remain on a week-to-week review.

Students must be in school the entire day to be eligible to participate in any activity that takes place after school. Exceptions might include: Dental or Medical appointments

Volunteer coaches are expected to adhere to the rules of the SCAA and/or IESA, under the direction of Cathedral's Athletic Director.

Athletic programs available at Cathedral School include: o Softball for girls of Grades 6, 7 and 8 o Baseball for boys of Grades 6, 7 and 8 o Basketball for boys and girls of Grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 o Volleyball for girls of Grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 o Cross Country for students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 o Track for students in Grades 6,7,8 Extra-curricular activities include: o Scholastic Bowl o Choristers and Cantores o Jubilate o K-Kids & Builders’ Club o Newspaper

Bicycling to School / Walking to School Students may ride bicycles to and from school or walk to or from school once the principal has been notified in writing by the parent(s). Bicycles will be locked at the bicycle rack outside during school hours. The school is not responsible for care and/or supervision of the bicycle. Please realize our location and traffic that is surrounding our area.

Calendar Illinois State School Code requires that school be open for instruction 176 days (or 880 hours). A school calendar is set prior to the first day of school, but is subject to modification as changes occur. Monthly calendars will be sent home to provide the most up-to-date information. Additional information will be available by notice and email as activities are added.

Car Line Parents are asked to pay close attention during the carline process. Please follow the traffic/safety directions given by the teachers on duty. The cars enter the lot on the Church end and line up toward the exit. When the lot is full a teacher will close the gate so that students may safely enter the lot to get to the family vehicle. Once the students are safely in their vehicle the exit gates will be opened and the cars will be dismissed in the order of their arrival. It is the responsibility of the parent to contact the school office before 2 p.m. when a child requires other arrangements to be made for dismissal. Homeroom teachers should be advised in writing if a child is to go home with a different family or by a different means on a given day. These notes are required by both families. No phone calls please. Arrangements need to be made prior to the school day.

Car seats Car seats are required for field trips for children under 8 years of age unless the child weighs more than 40 lbs. This is in conjunction with the Illinois Child Passenger Protection Act.

Celebrations 1 Birthday Observances Birthday treats (prepared in individual servings) may be brought to school for students celebrating birthdays and half-birthdays with permission from the teacher. Birthday pizza parties, balloon/floral arrangements sent to school are not permitted. Treats must follow the guidelines of the Diocesan Wellness Policy sent home each year. 2 Gifts Students should not exchange individual gifts at school. This gesture only creates hurt feelings among other students. Invitations for parties should be sent to the homes of students via U.S. Mail unless an invitation is being given to every student in the entire grade or all girls / all boys.

3 Parties Students are permitted four simple classroom parties a year: Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day. Parties always begin at 2pm. Room parents may be asked to assist the classroom teacher with these parties if necessary. In keeping with the Wellness Policy, we ask that treats follow guidelines that are sent home.

Cell Phones/Electronic Devices/Other Materials If students have a cell phone at school, they MUST be turned off upon arrival and given to their teacher each morning. Students may then retrieve them at the end of the school day. Any student found having a cell phone in their possession during the school day will have the cell phone confiscated and given to the principal. Cell phones will only be returned to parents. Repeat offenders may have their phone taken until the end of that quarter or at the principal’s discretion. No cell phones are to be used at morning care or after care. Electronic devices and other items, such as but not limited to questionable books and pictures, knives, guns, matches, cigarettes, radios, toys, trading cards, pagers, laser lights, palm pilots, CDs, iPods or other mp3 players, headphones, or anything that will detract from a learning situation are not allowed at school at any time. The school Administration, in accordance with state laws, will determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken concerning the presence of these items in the school. Items taken away from students will be returned to the parent(s)/guardian(s) on the last day of the school year.

Child Custody Policy Parents are obligated to inform the school when custody of a child changes. The School must have a copy of the court ordered document. Both the custodial and non-custodial parent is entitled to access child’s records and conference with the teachers, unless the Court has ruled otherwise. Visitation by the

41 non-custodial parent must take place outside the school hours. Step-parents have no legal rights to documents without the permission of the custodial parent.

City Bus Riders Children riding home on city buses will be escorted to the bus stop by a teacher at dismissal time. Bus tickets may be purchased in the school office. It is expected that students riding buses will exhibit Christian values of courtesy and respect at all times. If problems arise and the school is notified, students will be asked to find another mode of transportation to and from school.

Crisis Plan Management Cathedral School has implemented a “crisis plan” for every type of emergency. If severe weather warnings are given for our area, the children will be kept in a safe and protected area until parents are able to come for them. They will not be dismissed from school, even if District 186 dismisses classes early due to weather conditions. Teachers and staff members know what to do in case of emergencies of any kind. Our first and foremost rule is to protect the children and keep them safe.

Daily Schedule The schedule for students of Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 is as follows: 7:30am – 8:10am Arrival 8:10am First Bell 8:15am Children are now tardy 3:00pm School dismissal Students arriving between 7:30am and 8:00am are to wait in the school cafeteria (School Hall) where they are supervised until they are sent to their classrooms. Children are not to be dropped off prior to 7:30am. The school is unable to provide supervision for the children before 7:30am. Students are not to wait for friends outside the school, but are to go directly to the school hall when they are dropped off.

At Cathedral School, we work in partnership with parents to enable each child to develop as an independent learner. Parents should allow their child(ren) to enter the school building on their own each morning. Various classes invite parent involvement or visitation on particular occasions.

Parents are expected to be prompt in picking up children at dismissal time. Those not picked up before 3:10pm will be sent to Extended Day. Parents will be charged for this service. Children may not remain outside or inside unsupervised before, during, or after school. Please check the school calendar and weekly letters for early dismissal dates

Students not picked up by the end of carline (approximately 3:10pm) will be sent immediately to the Extended Day Program. Parents are charged the daily per child rate of $7.50 ($11.00 per child on those days with an 11:30am dismissal with lunch included) for using this program. A fee of $1.00 per minute is charged for students remaining in the program after 5:30pm.

Drugs and Alcohol Possession or sale of illegal drugs, controlled substances, or alcohol at school or at any school related activity is against school policy. Being under the influence of illegal drugs or other controlled substances or alcohol at school or at any school related activity is also against school policy. Students who possess drugs and/or alcohol at school or at any school function face suspension and/or expulsion. Use of alcohol or other drugs by students (or abuse of prescribed medications) at Cathedral School or at any school related activity is strictly forbidden and will lead to disciplinary action.

The school reserves the right to require a student to undergo testing for the use of alcohol and/or drugs when a reasonable suspicion of such use exsists. A “reasonable suspicion” of a drug/or alcohol use may be based upon the observation of the student’s behavior, information received regarding alleged alcohol or drug use and/or other indications giving rise to a suspicion of a violation of this policy. A student’s failure to cooperate in testing required by this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from school.

Emergency Procedures Cathedral has implemented an emergency preparedness plan (Crisis Plan). Evacuation diagrams and emergency procedures are posted in each room. State Law required that Fire Drills be held a minimum of three times a year. Drills are precautionary measures to be followed in the event of other disasters such as: fire, storm, tornado, earthquake, or bus accidents, and ensures the safety of the children.

Extended Day Program (ECP) Cathedral School provides Extended Day care as a service for families needing after school care for their children until 5:30pm.

Fees per child: $ 7.50 per day for p.m. care $11.00 per day on early dismissal (lunch provided)

Late Fee: $5 per 5 minutes after 5:30 p.m.

Snacks/Milk: Snacks and milk are provided in the after school program. Juice/water may be purchased from the vending machine.

Other information: o Homework time and/or supervised study time o Each day, parents must sign child(ren) out. o Rules are consistent with those in current policy handbook. o Payment is due at the end of each month. o Failure to keep current on fees may result in termination of care for your children

Students who are not picked up consistently by 5:30 PM will receive a phone call reminding you to pick up your students on time. If this becomes a problem you will receive a registered letter of removal from the Extended Day Program.

Facilities Use Facilities Use - On all days when school is in attendance, the Cathedral School building shall be available for authorized access by parents and authorized visitors from 7:30am until fifteen (15) minutes past the scheduled dismissal time. All parents and visitors to the school building must ring the doorbell and be buzzed into the school. They must report to the school office and obtain a visitors pass which shall be worn while in the school building. Entry to the school is only obtained through the Cass Street doors or through the Atrium.

Faculty and staff members are authorized to ask any person who is not parent and/or an authorized visitor to the school facilities to leave the premises. If the person fails to comply with the request, the faculty or staff member shall inform the principal or the school office to determine what additional action is necessary to obtain compliance with their request. Any person who fails to comply with a request from the principal or school office to leave the school premises shall be considered a trespasser and may be subject to arrest.

Health and Wellness Cathedral School is committed to providing a learning environment that supports and promotes wellness, good nutrition, and physical activity. We will provide meals consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans and Food Guidance (MyPyramid) such as fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy foods and whole grain products. Those bringing foods and beverages to school for parties / celebrations / meetings are encouraged to provide healthful options. A suggested list of treats will be sent home early in the year.

If a child becomes ill, the teacher will send him/her to the office. If the child needs to be sent home, the secretary first calls the parent or person listed on the emergency card to come for the child and then notifies both the teacher and the principal that the child is going home. Children who have temperatures in excess of 100° F will be sent home. Children must be temperature free for 24 hours prior to returning to school.

1 Communicable Disease and AIDS a The principal shall notify the Department of Public Health when a student is sent home because of suspected communicable disease. In case of absence due to a communicable disease, a release card from the Department of Public Health or a letter from the family physician indicating that the Department of Public Health regulations have been fulfilled must be presented when the student returns to school. Examples of serious contagious conditions are: T.B., Meningitis, HIV, Hepatitis and AIDS. b Students with AIDS who are enrolled or who are seeking enrollment shall be permitted to attend school and/or parish religious education programs. Students who are known

to have AIDS will be individually evaluated by the pastor, the principal, physician(s), and other professional personnel in order to determine if their physical condition poses a high risk or spread of the disease. One of the purposes of the evaluation is to prepare a specific plan for the education and care of the student. Knowledge that a student has AIDS will be confined to those persons with a direct need to know. These persons will be made aware of the confidentiality requirements 2 Insurance a All Cathedral School children are insured going to and from school, while at school, and during all school-related activities, including sports. If families are already insured, the school insurance may act as a secondary policy.

3 Medication a If a child must take any over the counter medication including: Tylenol, Motrin, Cold Medicine, (including cough drops) in school, a medication authorization form must be completed by a parent. Medicine sent to the office without proper documentation will NOT be given.

b Prescribed medication must be sent to the School Office in the container received from the pharmacy, a medication authorization form completed by a licensed physician and the container must have on its label the following information: i Child’s name ii Name of doctor prescribing the child’s medication iii Medication name iv Frequency v Dosage vi Date of prescription – within the current year c A log of all dispensed medication is kept by the school secretary in the office. Children with asthma may keep their inhalers with them, if completed authorization forms are on file in the office. d All medication (including cough drops) is to be brought to and kept in the school office. e If injury occurs, office personnel will inform the parent if the child needs further treatment or needs to be sent home. f Water bottles will be allowed in class.

Lost and Found Any items found in the school building or on the school grounds should be given to the school secretary to be placed in the Lost and Found bin. Items placed in the Lost and Found remain there for 30 days. After 30 days, items are donated to charity. Students who lose a textbook or workbook must pay the replacement cost of the book plus shipping in order to receive a new copy.

Lunch Program

Cathedral School offers a daily hot lunch program. Meals are prepared in the cafeteria and occasionally the services of outside vendors, i.e.: Pizza Friday’s. Students always have the option of bringing lunch from home. Students may not bring glass bottles, soft drinks, or excessive amounts of candy to school.

Menus will be presented to the parents two weeks ahead of time, so parents can place their order for the upcoming month. Payment must be made at the time the lunch menu is turned in. We cannot carry hot lunch billing beyond the end of each month. Students that forget their lunch will have two (2) grace lunches each semester, consisting of a PBJ sandwich and the current side entrees that are scheduled for that day. Grace lunches will be billed to the parent at normal lunch prices. After the two grace lunches have been provided, students will be required to call their parent.

In the event your child is absent for the day, reimbursement for lunch is not available.

Lunch Prices Cost of hot lunch or salad bar is: $ 2.50 for students Grades K through 3 $ 3.00 for students Grades 4 through 8 Extra entrees are available for $.50 cents for students in Grades 4th through 8th.

Grades PK, K, Lunch 1 Each shift will have 20 minutes recess / 20 minutes to eat. 1, 2, 3, Lunch 2 4, 5, 6 Lunch 3 7, 8 Lunch 4

Lunch Recess Lunch is followed by recess. Please make sure to have your children dressed for the weather for they will go outside as often as possible. On cold or rainy days, children will return to classrooms for indoor recess. Children must obey those who care for them. Students are expected to use the same manners at lunch time that are required in the classroom. Courtesy toward other students and cooperation with lunch and playground monitors are expected at all times.

Medical Appointments Parents are asked to schedule appointments outside of school hours. During school hours, the student is to be picked up at the school office. The parent or other responsible adult MUST report to the office to sign out the child or have written notice to the office beforehand. A written slip from the physician is request upon returning to school. It is the responsibility of the student/parent to obtain missed schoolwork.

Missions Throughout the year, money is collected to help missions throughout the world, especially the Holy Childhood Association. Students will have jeans days and monetary collections throughout the school

46 year. Money collected at the end of the year, and a check is written to the Office of Missions. Classrooms also conduct food drives throughout the year for Catholic Charities.

Money Collections No donations and/or money collections are taken without the approval of the Principal. All fund raisers must be approved by the Development Director and Principal.

Office Records Parents/Guardians are requested to notify the School Office in writing of any change of name, address, home telephone numbers, cell phone numbers, business phone numbers, e-mail addresses and/or phone numbers of emergency contacts. This will guarantee that office records are accurate, and up-to- date.

Parents that are divorced or separated must notify the school so that school personnel can better meet the student(s) needs at this difficult time. Cathedral adheres to and abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. A request for information will be responded to in a timely manner in order to keep the parent informed regarding the progress, etc., of a child.

If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order.

Parish Stewardship An alternate plan for churchgoing families of other faiths As parents we ask Cathedral School to help us provide out child(ren) with a Catholic education. We understand and agree that our child(ren) will be taught the teachings of the Catholic Church in their fullness even if we are living a way of life that is contrary to those teachings. We also understand that if we do not live in accord with Catholic Church teaching, we are expected to discuss with the administration of the school ways in which we could. We pledge our full cooperation with the school and parish to prepare our child(ren) to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. We will make every effort to supervise our child(ren)’s commitment to this agreement.

Physical Education All students are required to participate in the Physical Education program of the school. If for any reason of health, a student cannot participate in these classes, a note from the student’s physician must be given to the teacher and to the office.

Policies School policies are created by the School board with the approval of the Pastor. The principal is responsible for implementing the policy.

Pregnancy/ Parenting Policy Cathedral affirms the moral teaching of the Catholic Church including the teaching of holiness and giftedness of life. The school equally asserts the values of forgiveness and compassion. Believing that the truly Christian response to an adolescent boy or girl facing adult situations and decisions is focused on the person, the administration will deal with each boy or girl involved in pregnancy/parenting in a sensitive and Christian manner on an individual basis. A meeting will be held with school administration to determine arrangements for the student completion of his or her education and well- being.

Protecting God’s Children for Adults Attendance at the Diocesan required “Protecting God’s Children for Adults” program is required for all parents. In the past it was only if you were a volunteer. The Bishop has now asked all parents and members of the parish to have this class. Cathedral School asks all parents of Kindergartners to attend this program during the Kindergarten year so they will have this completed in the first year. The program may be completed at any session offered in the Diocese.

In addition, all must sign the Pastoral Policy on Sexual Abuse of Minors by Church Personnel which includes the Certification of Non-Conviction, Policy Acknowledgment and Agreement and Authorization for Background Check. These forms are provided following participation in “Protecting God’s Children.”

Recess Outdoor recess happens all year unless conditions warrant otherwise. Students will go outside until the wind chill is below 20° degrees. Students should dress appropriately for playing outdoors. In the event recess is indoors, students will remain in their classroom. Students will be monitored during recess by a playground monitor. Students should respect the monitor as any other member of the staff.

Returning to Classrooms after school dismissal Students are not permitted to return to the classrooms after the 3:00pm dismissal unless accompanied by a teacher. Students, who choose to return to their classroom after 3:00pm without a teacher, face detention, suspension, or expulsion.

Safety 1 General a Parents are urged to remind children not to accept rides or gifts from strangers and not to accept literature or the like to distribute to their friends from anyone other than their parents and/or school personnel. b Snowballs are not to be thrown on the playground/school grounds. Students are asked not to play with the snow on the way to or from school (or the bus stop).

2 Bullying / Harassment

a Cathedral School provides a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (seriously or in jest or on-line) face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. b Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The Principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. c Engaging in online blogs, e-mail, text messages, such as, but not limited to, MySpace.com®, AIM®, FaceBook®, Xanga®, Friendster®, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content of the student’s blog includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students, or the parish.

3 Threats a All threats will be taken seriously. Students who threaten others through words or actions will be removed from school and not permitted to return until a psychiatric professional has made written certification that the child is no longer a danger to self or others in the school. Safety Patrol Seventh and Eighth grade student serve as school safety patrol members for the children before and after school. The patrol is under the direction of their teachers and the Principal. Students and parents are asked to obey the directions of patrol members.

School Property The parent of a child who carelessly destroys or damages any furniture, equipment, buildings, or anyone’s personal property will be obligated to pay the full amount of repairs and labor or replacement. Hard-backed textbooks given to the student must have a proper book cover. No writing in hard-backed textbooks is permitted. The student will pay a fine or replacement for damaged or lost texts before any final reports, transcripts, or diplomas are presented.

Social Justice Mission money is collected throughout the year to assist those in need locally and around the world. Students collect food, clothing and gifts for the needy of Springfield especially during, but not limited to, the holiday seasons (Thanksgiving, Advent/Christmas, and Lent/Easter).

Supplies School supply lists are available at the beginning of the year and on our website. If you have difficulty acquiring school supplies for your student, please notify the Principal. Writing paper is furnished for students in Grades K, 1 and 2. Control paper is used in certain subjects by all students in Grades 3-8 and must be purchased at school.

Telephone

Permission to use the telephone must be obtained from the school secretary. Students must submit a note from their teacher. The office phone is a business phone and students are permitted to use it only in case of an emergency. The telephone in a teacher’s classroom is for the use of the teacher only. Forgotten homework, athletic equipment, etc. do not constitute emergencies. Arrangements for after- school visits with friends should be made at home.

Video or Movie Guidelines Videos can greatly enhance the classroom curriculum. The criteria for selecting a video for use in the classroom are: • Educational Value • Fit into the curriculum • Harmony with Catholic Faith and morals Only “G” or “PG” movies may be shown in the classroom.

Volunteer Guidelines All individuals who volunteer in the school must complete the Volunteer Sign-Up sheet and the Diocesan mandated Protecting God’s Children for Adults program. All volunteers are expected to dress appropriately. Clothing should be modest and neat. Pre-school siblings are not allowed to accompany parent volunteers to school or on field trips unless prior permission is obtained from the Principal.

Room parents are volunteers responsible for planning classroom parties and assisting in other special programs for the class. All Room Parents must have attended the Protecting God’s Children for Adults program and have their certificate on file in the school office. Room parents are expected to speak with teachers before assisting with simple parties for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day. They may be asked to chaperone field trips when necessary.

No letters from room parents are to be distributed without approval from the Principal. No money is to be collected without prior authorization from the school office.

Video Monitoring Systems A video monitoring system is now located in public areas of the school building. These systems have been put in place to protect students, staff, visitors and school property. If a discipline problem is captured on videotape, these recordings may be used as the basis for imposing student discipline. If criminal actions are recorded, a copy of the tape may be provided to law enforcement personnel.

Visitors School visitors (volunteers, parents, etc.) must come to the main office. At no time should parents or other visitors go directly to a classroom during school hours. Any articles such as lunches or forgotten books which are brought to the school during the day must be given to the secretary in the office. The child’s name and grade should be on the article. For safety and security reasons, each person is required to sign in at the office when he/she enters the building for any reason. All visitors and/or volunteers are required to wear a designated badge that may

50 be obtained in the office. Visitors and/or volunteers are to return the nametags and sign out at the time of departure.

Weather Emergencies Emergency closing of school is a rare event. If parents are in doubt as to whether or not school will be open due to severe weather conditions, please listen to the radio station, WTAX (1240) or the television news WICS (20). Effort is made to notify the radio by 7:00 a.m.

In the case of extreme weather or other emergencies, parents will be contacted electronically through School Reach communications system regarding any school closings. Do not call the school or the rectory concerning the closing of school as the determination is not made on the level of the individual Catholic School. A joint decision will be made by the Springfield Catholic elementary school principals regarding the closing of our schools when an emergency occurs that would affect the health and safety of our students. Once school is in session, students will not ordinarily be dismissed early due to bad weather. In severe weather conditions, parents are free to pick up their child at their discretion. Weather Emergencies while in school Whenever the U.S. weather service (NOAA) issues a tornado warning the principal or designee will require all students and staff to take shelter at designated areas in the basement. We do ask that parents refrain from calling the school, as our staff will be located in the basement for safety. It is important that our phone lines remain open during severe weather. If a decision is made that school should be closed, parents will be notified by School Reach or local radio/TV. Parents or legal guardians may pick up their children from school at the announced closing of school.

Right to Amend The Principal is the final recourse and reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Notice of amendments during the school year, will be sent to parents via the Daily Folder and posted on our website.

Rights and Reservations The Principal is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause at his or her discretion.

The student at Cathedral is a student at all times. A student who engages in conduct, whether inside or outside of school, that is detrimental to the reputation of the school, may be disciplined by school administration.

Education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school. Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the

51 withdrawal of a student if the school administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.