2019-2020 Parent/Student Handbook Immaculate Conception School, Tuckahoe
Mission
The Immaculate Conception School is a Catholic elementary school providing a strong faith-based foundation. ICS provides academic excellence for its students from Pre-K3 through 8th grade. ICS believes in the spiritual and personal development of the whole child through education and Christian guidance.
The ICS faculty and staff are supported by the Archdiocese of New York and the Parish of The Immaculate Conception and The Assumption of Our Lady. Together as a faith community we are committed to instilling Christian values and compassion for the human spirit in every student.
ICS is a faith-filled community of families, teachers and friends working together to make the surrounding areas of Westchester, and the world as a whole, a better place through its service of education.
As you enter the front door to our school you will be greeted with the following quote, “Be it known to all who enter here that Christ is the reason for this school. He isPage the 0unseen of 112 but ever present teacher in its classes. He is the model of its faculty and the inspiration of its students.”
Immaculate Conception 2019-19 Parent/Student Handbook Table of Contents
Academic Expectations Page 4 Graduation Page 4 Homework Page 4 Grades and Grading Page 5 Assessments Page 13 Accidents Page 14 Admissions Policies Page 14 After School Program Page 15 Announcements Page 16 Attendance Page 16 Birthday Parties Page 19 Books Page 19 Buses Page 20 Change of Address, Email, Phone Page 21 Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People Page 21 Child Abuse Laws Page 21 Child Custody Page 21 Communication Page 22 Confidentiality Page 26 Contacts with the Media Page 26 Crisis/Emergency Information Page 26 Daily Schedule Page 27
Discipline Code for Student Conduct Page 28 Dress Code Page 33 Drop Off Page 43 Page 1 of 112
Drug and Alcohol Policies Page 44 Electronic Devices Page 45 Emergency Closings/Delayed Openings Page 47 Expectations and Responsibilities for Students Page 48 Extracurricular Activities Page 49 Faculty Meetings Page 49 Field Trips Page 50 Financial Policies Page 52 Fire Drills Page 58 Guidance Page 58 Guidelines for the Education on Non-Catholics Page 59 Harassment/Bullying Policies Page 59 HIV/AIDS Curriculum Page 60 Illness Page 66 Immunizations Page 60 Lateness Page 66 Liturgy/Religious Education Page 66 Lunchroom Page 67 Maternity/Paternity Policies Page 68 Student Abortion Policies Page 68 Medications Page 69 Money Page 70 Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian Page 70 Parents as Partners Page 71 Parent Organizations Page 73 Pick up students Page 74 Philosophy and Goals Page 73 Promotion and Retention Policy Page 75 Re-registration Page 75
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Release of Students Page 76 School Calendar Page 77 School Publications Page 77 School’s Right to Amend Page 77 Security Page 78 Sex Offender Policy Page 78 Smoking Page 79 Special Learning Needs Page 79 Summer School Page 88 Telecommunications Policy Page 80 Student Expectations in Use of the Internet Page 81 Use of Schools Grounds Page 81 Withdrawals and Transfers Page 81 Summary Statement Page 82 Telecommunications Policy- Student Expectations in Use of the Internet Page 84-86 Student Signature page Page 87-89 Appendix Page 86 Parent Signature pages Page 81-85 Absent Note Page 90 Textbook form Page90 Immunization Documents Pages 90-112
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Immaculate Conception School Parent Student Handbook (ICS revised September 2019) New items in blue print
School Policies
Academic Expectations
Immaculate Conception School expects students to perform to the best of their ability. Teachers are expected to evaluate student progress on a regular basis. Students will be given quizzes or tests regularly. After the test is graded, it will be sent home for the Parent/Guardian to review and sign. Parent/Guardian signature indicates that the Parent/Guardian is aware of the student’s progress. Parents/Guardians are expected to review their child’s performance on the Student Information System (SIS) that has been established by ADNY and is utilized by Immaculate Conception School. Passwords have been established for each parent/guardian. The system remains available to families who remain current with tuition and fees obligations.
Graduation
At the discretion of the principal, each school has the right not to certify the student's graduation or provide transcripts of the student's academic record to third parties such as other schools, colleges, or employers, or to issue a diploma to the student, if there has been a breach of a material condition of this educational contract (i.e., failure to meet financial obligations, infractions against the school’s code of conduct, etc.).
Homework
Homework is an essential part of the instructional program, reinforces learning, and provides students with opportunities to practice what they have learned. This practice helps students establish good study habits, become independent learners, and strong readers, writers, and mathematicians. All homework times include 15 minutes of reading (or being read to).
The time allotments for homework (written and study) are as follows:
Grades PreK & K may be given occasional short homework assignments Page 4 of 112
related to the curriculum Grades 1 & 2 approximately 30 minutes Grades 3 & 4 approximately 45 minutes Grades 5 & 6 approximately 90 minutes Grades 7 & 8 approximately 120 minutes
Students are required to record homework/assignments in the student planner. Students are required to complete all homework/assignments. Depending on grade level, Parents/Guardians may be expected to sign the completed homework. Parents/Guardians are expected to check SIS for confirmation/clarification and due dates for all assignments.
Parents should also sign up for Teachers’ pages on Bloomz and check both Bloomz and email frequently for information, events, etc.
In the event of absence homework and books will not be sent to the office. Siblings or friends will not be allowed to go to another classroom to pick up assignments. Upon their return after an absence students will secure assignments from teachers and complete missed assignments in a timely fashion. In the event of an extended absence arrangements can be made to have books etc. picked up from the office.
Grades and Grading
Report cards are distributed four times a year for Grades 1 to 8. Pre-K and Kindergarten report cards are distributed four times a year. The report card is a link between the school and the home. The Student Information System will serve to keep families informed between report cards.
As required by the Archdiocese of New York each school must adopt a formal grading policy. The policy at Immaculate Conception school follows:
45% Summative Assessments (tests, major projects, mid and end-of year examinations) 25% Quizzes 20% Classwork and Participation 10% Homework
The following GLOSSARY OF TERMS is offered: 1. Assessment: The gathering, recording, and analysis of data about a student's progress and achievements. 2. Classwork: A student’s written and oral academic performance, which includes: Class participation Group work Page 5 of 112
Notebooks/ Journals Listening skills/following directions Oral reading Work sheets/workbooks Conferencing Observation 3. Formative Assessment: Evaluations that are administered throughout the academic year to assist teachers in modifying and improving instruction based on student results. 4. Homework: The out-of-class tasks that a student is assigned as an extension of classroom work. Four types of homework are commonly assigned: practice assignments, preparation assignments, extension assignments, and integration assignments. 5. Mid-Year and End-of-Year Examinations: Summative evaluations that are administered at the end of the second and fourth quarters to students in grades 3-8. 6. Portfolio: A purposeful collection of student work that exhibits effort, progress, and achievement in one or more areas. 7. Quiz: A short assessment that is administered frequently to assess a student’s knowledge. Quizzes include oral or written exams. In Science class, labs should be considered quizzes. 8. Rubric: An established set of criteria which score student performance for different levels of achievement based on a set of standards. 9. Summative Assessment: Evaluation at the conclusion of a unit or units of instruction to determine or judge student skills and knowledge. Outcomes are the culmination of a teaching/learning process for a unit, subject, or year’s study. Summative assessments include major projects, tests and mid and end-of-year examinations. Teachers are required to list all standards assessed on all summative English Language Arts and Mathematics assessments.
Academic Achievement
The first part of the Archdiocesan Report Card is used to mark the student’s achievement in academic subjects.
The achievement mark is based upon the demonstration of mastery of material covered in class such as:
1. classwork/participation 2. homework 3. quizzes 4. formative assessments 5. summative assessments
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There are no grades for Computer Science or Library as these two areas are to be supportive of, and integrated into, the total learning process. Foreign Language will be given a letter grade if the class meets for less than 120 minutes per week. Foreign Language will be given a numerical grade only if the class meets for more than 120 minutes per week.
The Final Report Card Grade is the weighted average of the four previous quarter grades, and the mid-year and end-year tests Religion for grades 3-5 and in all core subjects for grades 6-8.) This Final Grade will be recorded on the student’s permanent record.
Numerical marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 1 – 8.
A 4-1 scale is used to evaluate student progress toward grade level standards in each core subject area. o 4: Exceeding Standards o Student exceeds requirements for grade-level work and consistently applies and extends learned concepts and skills independently o 3: Meeting Standards o Student demonstrates and applies knowledge and understanding of learned concepts and skills, meets requirements for grade -level work, and completes work independently with limited errors. o 2: Approaching Standards o Student demonstrates partial understandings and is beginning to meet requirements for grade-level work. Requires some extra time, instruction, assistance and/ or practice. o 1: Below Standards o Student demonstrates minimal understandings and seldom meets requirements for grade-level work. Requires an extended amount of time, instruction, assistance and/ or practice. o N/A: Not Assessed o Students were not assessed on these standards this quarter.
The marks are an average of summative assessments, quizzes, classwork, homework, and formative assessments
Passing is any mark 70% or above or any mark of D or higher.
Parents should be informed in a timely manner in the event of a student who is not satisfactorily performing in a course or activity. The Student Information System will serve to keep families informed between report cards.
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The June grade (Final grade) on the report card is comprised of 20% for each marking period and 10% for each mid-term and final exam. This grade will be recorded on the student’s permanent record card.
Character Development
The Conduct and General Effort Scale indicates grades for General Effort and Character Development. A single letter grade is used with progress codes indicating improvement needed in any sub-category.
Honor Roll The criteria for inclusion in the Honor Roll are peculiar for each school. As an acknowledgment of achievement in academics at Immaculate Conception School the criteria are:
No honors are awarded Grades Pre-
K -5th Grades 6 – 8 Principal’s List 95% average;
No report card grade less than 90% in academic areas.
No special subject, character development, conduct or effort mark less than an “A”.
Grades 6 – 8 First Honors 90%average;
No report card grade less than 85% in academic areas.
No special subject, character development, conduct or effort mark lower than a “B”.
Grades 6 – 8 Second Honors 85% average;
No report card grade less than 80% in academic areas.
No special subject, character development, conduct or effort mark lower than a “B”.
Good conduct is a requirement to receive Honors. Therefore, a student must receive A (excellent)
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or B (good) in conduct to be eligible for honors. A student who does not receive an A or B in Conduct, will not receive Principal’s List, First or Second Honors even though marks might warrant it.
Honors will be awarded on a quarterly basis. This allows an opportunity for students who did not achieve honors in one quarter to qualify for honors in the next quarter. They can do so by improving their performance in academics, conduct or attendance / lateness.
**Please note lateness affects eligibility for honors.
In June students can also qualify for special recognition if their final averages including grades for Mid-Term and Final Exams meet the honors criteria listed below.
FINAL AVERAGE HONORS GOLD STAR: 95% overall average with no report card grade less than 80% (this includes mid-term and final exams grades) No special subject, conduct, or effort mark lower than an “A” in the final average column.
SILVER STAR: 90% overall average with no report card grade less than 80% (this includes mid-term and final exams grades) No special subject, conduct, or effort mark lower than a “B” in the final average column.
BRONZE STAR: 85% overall average with no report card grade less than 80% (this includes mid-term and final exams grades) No special subject, conduct, or effort mark lower than a “B” in the final average column.
National Junior Honor Society Eligibility Immaculate Conception School Tuckahoe, New York ICS maintains an active chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). During the fall of each school year students in middle school will be introduced to the organization and informed of the academic and service requirements for acceptance. Report cards are reviewed at the close of the fourth quarter at the end of both 7th and 8th grade years. The administration and a committee of middle school teachers, known as the faculty council, review the eligibility students and select the candidates. Selected students are considered for character, scholarship, leadership, service and citizenship. An induction ceremony for the newly invited NJHS members will be held during the Honors Assembly during the last
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week of school (eligible 8th graders will be inducted during the Baccalaureate Mass) for the school and family members. The membership criteria and process are as follows. Seventh and Eighth grade students with an overall average grade of 95% at the end of the 7th grade or 8th grade year, with rounding avoided, will be considered for membership. Those students with the required grade average are invited to complete an application that provides input on their service, leadership, citizenship, and character, the four pillars of the NJHS. The following are the criteria for each of these categories which are used to determine eligibility for membership.
Leadership: Student holds at least one significant leadership role or office in a school or extracurricular organization.
Service: At least 20 hours of extracurricular service activities completed in the previous year through school open houses (and other similar events), altar serving, lecturing, church choir, or service activities organized by scouting or youth organizations. Individual activities will also be considered such as helping at soup kitchens, visiting the elderly, or other activities for which the candidate is not compensated.
Citizenship and Character: Determined by information on the application, information provided by ICS faculty, and the faculty council’s knowledge of the candidate. Final determination as to which students will be invited to join the ICS Chapter of the NJHS will be made by a majority decision of the faculty council. All decisions made by the faculty council are final, and applicants should realize that membership in the NJHS is an honor and privilege, not a right granted to all those who apply. Revised January 5, 2011 National Junior Honor Society Discipline Procedures Membership in the National Junior Honor Society is a privilege, not a right. Any member who falls below the standards of scholarship, leadership, character, citizenship, or service may be dismissed from the Immaculate Conception School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. A member of the National Junior Honor Society is expected to maintain his/her academic standing and take an active role in service and leadership to his/her school and community. Possible Reasons for discipline and dismissal include but are not limited to: Cumulative Average falling below 90% Violating the law or school rules possibly resulting in suspensions Violating the school conduct code such as: possession of cell phones during school hours, profanity, unexcused absences, excessive tardies, or disrespectful behavior
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When a member falls below standards for scholarship, leadership, character, citizenship, or service the member, principal, and parents will be notified in writing of the deficiency. If appropriate, the members will have one half of a quarter to correct the negligence. Possible discipline actions include, but are not limited to: Probation Suspension Dismissal Members should also be aware that they are allowed limited warnings during their membership. One warning may be sufficient in many cases. In the case of a flagrant violation of school rules or the law, a warning is not required for dismissal, but a hearing will still be held. The hearing is considered a right of membership. It is guaranteed as due process as identified by the 14th amendment of the U.S. Constitution, and it does require the chapter to notify the member of the action being contemplated, the reasons for the action, the date and time of the hearing, and the opportunity for the member to respond in writing. Dismissal Procedures In all matters of dismissal, local advisers will first notify the member in writing of the action being contemplated, the reasons for the action, the date and time of the hearing, and the opportunity for the member to respond in writing. Copies of this correspondence will be sent to the member’s parents and the principal. The local adviser will maintain copies of all such correspondence including the date that it was sent. Before any dismissal action is taken the Faculty Council will investigate the alleged offense thoroughly. All information provided to the Faculty Council will be carefully considered including the member’s written response. The Faculty Council will then vote on whether to dismiss. A majority vote of the Faculty Council is needed to dismiss any member. The results of the Faculty Council vote will be reviewed by the principal, and then if confirmed, expressed in a letter sent the student, parents, and principal. Dismissed members must surrender any membership emblems to the adviser. When a student is dismissed or resigns, he/she is no longer a member and may never again be considered for membership in the National Junior Honor Society. (revised January 2011)
Report Card Distribution Report cards are distributed in November, January, April, and June. Report cards will be withheld and access to SIS will be denied if financial obligations have not been met and fees are outstanding.
Report cards may not be given before the assigned date. In the event that a student will leave school prior to the last day in June and all financial obligations have been met, the student may give the teacher a self-addressed stamped envelope and the report card can be mailed the last day of school.
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Retention/Promotion Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student. When a school accepts a student, that school accepts the responsibility for providing appropriate instruction to help the student achieve the prescribed goals. If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next level. Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, may indicate that some students cannot follow the school’s complete course of study. The principal and school faculty develop for each of these students a special program, based on the school’s regular program, which follows the New York State Standards and Archdiocesan Essential Learnings. A copy of the student’s modified program is retained in the student’s file. Conferences must be held with the parents periodically to inform them of the specific demands of this program and on-going progress. Therefore, the decision to retain a student presupposes that the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, and the student still has not made satisfactory progress.
If a student is being considered for retention, teachers must begin discussing this possibility early in the school year with the principal. Parent conferences must be held periodically, and notification of the possibility of retention must be made no later than mid-January, with written notation having been made on the report card. Although the teacher consults with the principal, the final decision for retaining a student rests with the principal.
The following are specific criteria that will assist teachers as they consider a recommendation for retention. The student has failed to pass the major subjects on each grade level. The following table indicates the specific failures by grade level that might result in retention at that grade level:
LEVEL ACADEMIC PROGRESS Kindergarten Evidence that the child is not meeting academic expectations of the program. Grade 1 Evidence of insufficient developmental progress and a failure in English Language Arts (ELA)
Grade 2 Failure in ELA
Grade 3 Failures in ELA and Mathematics
Grade 4, 5, Failures in ELA and Mathematics, 6 or Failures in ELA or Mathematics and failures in two of the following subjects: Religion, Science, and Social Studies. Page 12 of 112
Grade 7, 8 Failures in ELA and Mathematics or Failure in ELA or Failures in ELA or Mathematics and failure in one of the following subjects: Religion, Science, and Social Studies The student has not demonstrated acceptable progress toward mastery of standards. The following types of behavior might indicate unacceptable progress:
ow standards”) in several standard domains on report card
Generally, a student would be retained only once in the elementary grades (1 - 5), and only once in the upper grades (6 - 8).
If a child is required to go to summer school for promotion, that child must attend an approved summer school program. If the child does not attend an approved summer school, the child can be retained.
The final decision to promote or retain a student is made by the principal, based on the academic and behavioral record.
If a student completes all requirements for promotion or graduation, a family cannot self-select the student to be retained in their grade.
Assessments
In addition to class and school exams, every student will take part in the Archdiocesan testing program which includes the Archdiocesan religion tests, interim assessments, and New York State Education Department assessments. All students enrolled at our school are expected to participate in all exams and assessments. No alternative assignments will be provided.
Archdiocesan Test Religion Exams (In June, the Archdiocesan Religion exam will be used as the student’s End-Year Examinations in Religion for Grades 6-8.
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Religion Mid-year and Grade 3 to 8 January and June Final Exams ______Core Subject* Mid Year Grade 6-8 January and June and Final Exams
Grade
*In June, the Archdiocesan Religion exam will be used as the student’s End-Year Examination in Religion for Grades 6-8.
Interim Assessments
Interim Assessments – Administered Three Times per Year
Grades K-8 NWEA MAP Interim Assessments
NY State Tests
New York State Exams Grade Tests 3 English Language Arts and Mathematics 4 English Language Arts and Mathematics 5 English Language Arts and Mathematics 6 English Language Arts and Mathematics 7 English Language Arts and Mathematics 8 English Language Arts and Mathematics
The faculty of the school reviews these test results regularly for the purpose of promotion or retention in conjunction with classroom performance and grouping for reading and math.
Accidents
A student accident insurance fee is added to every child’s general fee. In the event of an accident at school you may obtain a claim form from the office.
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Please note that the school accident insurance usually is secondary to the Parent/Guardian’s own medical insurance coverage.
Admission Policies Roman Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base their educational purpose and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all persons as rooted in God’s love.
Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Archdiocese do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin or gender in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New York whether owned or operated by the parishes within the Archdiocese or religious communities with the Archdiocese.
The process for admission to Immaculate Conception School is: Parent/Guardians must complete the school application form and provide all required documents. Following an evaluation of the materials, along with an interview of Parent/Guardian and school visit by the child, the Parents/Guardians will be notified about the status of the child.
Immaculate Conception School gives preference in admission first, to siblings of currently enrolled students; second, to Catholic students who’s Parent/Guardians are active members of the parish; third, to Catholic students whose Parent/Guardians are active in another Catholic parish; fourth, to non-Catholic students.
Toilet training is a requirement for entrance into and continued attendance in our Early Childhood programs.
In order to be considered fully toilet trained children must be able to: Recognize when they must use the bathroom and inform an adult in the classroom Use the toilet without assistance Perform all steps necessary to complete the toileting process: o Removal of clothing o Cleansing after toileting o Replacement of clothing o Washing hands
After School Programs
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After school programs are available to parents. As long as a student is engaged in school-sponsored programs or activities, the student is expected to follow school policy. Directors of individual activities may also issue rules of behavior, which recognize the special nature of non-classroom activities. In instances where students are picked up, parents are expected to make arrangements to pick up their children at the end of the program or activity. Students will be released only to a parent or a person previously specified IN WRITING by the parent. Program Fees are expected to be paid in full upon being invoiced. Past due balances will result in your child not being allowed to participate in the program until their accounts are brought up to date.
Participation in any after school program, club, team, etc. is a privilege and is subject to approval by Administration. Participation can be revoked based on poor academic performance and/or behavior in and out of school that is deemed inappropriate for a student at Immaculate Conception School.
After regular school hours our school nurse is not on site nor do we have any Immaculate Conception School staff members in the building who will administer medication, Benadryl or Epi-Pen shots during our after school programs, clubs, practices, games, etc. should a child require such a treatment. Should you allow your child to attend any after school activity, it would be at your own risk. Emergency personnel (911) will be called if the program staff deem this action to be necessary.
Our school nurse does not work with the after school programs regarding food/snacks/allergies. Students who participate in these programs and have food allergies will be expected to provide their own food/snacks (if applicable) and must be instructed not to eat any other food available from other children or staff.
Students who do not attend school on any given day may not attend After Care on that day.
Announcements
Informational announcements are handled through the school P.A. system. Courteous attention is expected when any message is presented over the P.A. system, especially when prayers are said. All announcements must be written and brought to the office and approved by the principal.
Attendance
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In the State of New York, full-time education is compulsory from age six to age 16. Regular attendance is the responsibility of the child(ren)’s parent or guardian.
Excused Absence: A child is legally absent from school for the following reasons: sickness, sickness or death in the family, impassable roads or extreme weather; all other absences are unexcused.
Lateness: A child should come to school even though he/she may be late. All lateness is recorded and marked on the report card. Parents will be consulted about chronic Lateness and the child may be required to make up time missed. Lateness also affects report card grades for Character Development and Honors.
In the event of a school absence: Parents/Guardians are required to phone the Main Office by 9:00 a.m. Absence notes are still required in addition to the phone call. An illegal absence will be recorded if a note is not received or if the reason for absence is considered as a unexcused absence as defined by the State. Excessive unexcused absences will be reported to the NYS Bureau of Attendance. In the event of an emergency if a student must leave school early, a note should be sent to the teacher who will forward it to the office for approval by the administration. Early pick-ups will not be permitted after 2:40 p.m. This disrupts the class/school dismissal process. A student may leave school only if accompanied by an authorized adult who should report to the office to follow required sign out procedures. No student will be allowed to leave the building until he/she is signed out. A student is never allowed to leave school alone during the school day. Students who are absent from school for any reason cannot participate in any after school activity, sporting event, practice, etc. on the day that classes have been missed. Any student returning to school after a 3 day absence must provide a Doctor’s note for this absence.
Students are encouraged to achieve a good record of attendance. This includes punctuality each morning. Students may not attend school when they are sick doing so may cause others to also become ill. Students should not be encouraged to achieve perfect attendance at the risk of putting others at risk of illness. Parents /Guardians
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must abide by the guidelines provided by the school nurse for attendance. This information is listed on our school web-site.
When the child returns to school from an absence: a completed absence form/note must be given to the teacher. (See Appendix.) This form is distributed at the beginning of the school year and contains appropriate spaces for the child’s name, date of absence, class, reason for absence, and the signature of a Parent/Guardian. Our school follows NYS attendance policies. The State dictates that any absence not followed by a note from the Parent/Guardian will be listed as an illegal absence. Vacations during the school year are recorded as an illegal absence.
Doctor or dental appointments should be scheduled for after school or on days when school is not in session. Family vacations are not to be planned for those days when school is in session. The school provides families with an annual calendar to ensure that does not happen. If it is necessary for a child to be dismissed during the school day, he/she (must be signed out by the parent or an approved adult 18 years of age or older) . For more detail please refer to the section on “Release of Children.”
Students in kindergarten through grade eight who miss ten or more days of the school year, whether excused or unexcused, and who have not satisfactorily completed the required work, may be considered for retention. Students with more than 10 absences are in jeopardy of not successfully completing the school year. Principals will meet with the student’s parents/legal guardians to determine appropriate next steps. Certification of an absence by a physician is an exception to the ten-day limit. However, satisfactory completion of required work is required.
Children who leave school before dismissal because they were not feeling well may not return after dismissal for any after school function, such as After Care, clubs, games, practices, performances, etc.
Students who do not attend school on any given day may not attend After Care on that day.
Lateness Policy
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Students in grades 1-8 should report to the yard or the cafeteria, depending on weather conditions, between 8:00- 8:10 a.m. each day. Students who enter the building after their class line has left the yard or cafeteria are considered late (8:10) and are required to enter through the main door and report to the Main Office for a late pass. Students may not enter class while Morning Prayer and Announcements are in progress.
Punctuality is important. Students who arrive late to school/class disrupt the educational flow of the classroom. Arriving late demonstrates a disregard for school and class rules and will be reflected in the Character Development portion of the Report Card.
An accumulation of 6 times late during a quarter will result in the student’s conduct grade dropping a full grade on the Report Card. For example: If a student earns the Conduct Grade of ‘B’ for the 1st Quarter, but the student has been late 6 times, the Conduct Grade will become ‘C’. This change in the Conduct Grade will prevent a student from receiving honors.
Parents/Guardians will be consulted about chronic lateness. Birthday Parties
Birthday recognitions for Grades Pre K – 1 are specific to each grade and are only held with the teacher’s permission. Homeroom teachers will furnish details for their class. Parents/Guardians should submit their request in writing to the teacher several days in advance of the birthday. At the direction of the teacher, Parents/Guardians may bring small individual items such as cupcakes, brownies, etc. Parents/Guardians are requested to be sensitive to possible food allergies of students. Mini cupcakes are best. Regular sized cupcakes with large amounts of icing are not permitted. We highly recommend nut-free mini cupcakes from Stop N Shop. The homeroom teacher or nurse can provide specific information for each class. Parents/Guardians may not bring in favors or “goodie” bags for the students.
Grades 2-8 do not hold birthday celebrations. Cupcakes, brownies, etc. may not be sent in to be distributed in either the classroom or the cafeteria for any grade.
Families should not feel obligated to invite the entire class to their child’s birthday party outside of school. However, birthday party invitations are not distributed in school unless the entire class is to be invited to the party. Families are asked to be discreet about handing out invitations after school hours so that children who are not invited to the party do not experience hurt feelings.
Books All resource materials chosen for use in academic courses must be consistent with the religious nature of our schools. Books, DVDs, or other electronic-based supplementary
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resources that contain profanity, inappropriate sexual references, and other immoral information would be in violation of this policy.
All books must be properly covered. Contact paper is not to be used to cover any books obtained under N.Y.S. Textbook Loan. These books are stamped on the inside front cover. Each child is responsible for keeping his/her books in good condition. Books that are lost or defaced become the liability of the student and his/her Parents/Guardians. If a book is lost or defaced, the school will bill the Parents/Guardians for the cost.
1. ASSIGNED TEXTBOOKS: When a textbook is lent to a pupil on a semi- permanent basis, the New York State Department of Education requires that: a. the pupil’s name be placed in the space provided in each book b. the teacher make a record of the number of the book c. the teacher make a record of the condition of the book d. in September, each child will put a clean cover on each textbook received e. in June, all textbooks are collected, extra materials and covers are removed. f. all workbooks are collected in June.
2. SUPPLEMENTARY BOOKS: When books are handed out to the children for use during a specific period within the classroom, they will be immediately collected after they have been read. If the book is to remain with the child for any length of time, his/her name must appear in the book and the teacher should have a record of this.
3. LIBRARY BOOKS: Books may be borrowed for one week. Books are charged to the child so that he/she will have the experience of signing out a library book and abiding by due dates. If books are returned late, there will be a five cent per day fine per book, payable by the child. All lost library books must be paid for so that the school can purchase a replacement copy. If the book is located after a new order is placed, the child will be allowed to keep the old book since he/she has paid for it.
Buses
Some local districts provide buses for students. If service is available in a specific area, Parents and Guardians must make arrangements for service. Please call the school for more information.
Please Note:
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If travel arrangements must be changed on any given day, a written notice must be submitted at the beginning of the school day.
Students and Parent/Guardians should consider riding on the school bus as a privilege and an extension of the school. Thus, students are to demonstrate a respectful, Christian, and safety-conscious attitude at all times on the bus.
students should obey the driver and monitors at all times.
students should do nothing to cause annoyances or distraction to the driver, as this places the safety of all in danger.
in cases of extreme or persistent misbehavior, the school will work in consultation with the public school district or bus company about possible consequences.
These same guidelines apply to students who utilize public transportation. Change of Address, Email, Phone
The office (Before and After Care Programs, if applicable) must be informed immediately if there is a change of home address, home/work/cell phone numbers and email addresses for purposes of mailing and/or emergency contact and office communication.
Families who utilize our Before and After Care programs must provide separate written notice of any change to these programs as each program maintains separate files from the office files.
Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People
All institutions and programs of the Archdiocese will comply with the Safe Environment Policies of the Archdiocese. The Department of Education has developed a curriculum for the children in our parishes and schools, entitled "Right, Safe, Good Relationships", which provides age-appropriate instruction in child sexual abuse. The lessons in this curriculum must be given annually to all children in all grades. Parents reserve the right to remove their children from the classes. The school administration should take care to cause as little embarrassment of these students as possible. If parents choose not to have their child participate in the safe environment classes, the parents will be offered training materials, and will be asked to sign a form acknowledging that the materials were made available to them. This form will be maintained in the records of the school. If the parents decline to sign such a form, a notation of this will be made in a record maintained by the school. Page 21 of 112
Child Abuse Laws Under NYS law, school officials are legally obliged to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the proper agency. In so reporting, no allegation is made against a Parent/Guardian or care giver. Rather, it is a judgment by the school that the child may be presenting signs of abuse or neglect.
If the teacher or school nurse suspects abuse or neglect, he or she must immediately confer with the principal to discuss the aspects of the abuse and to determine which person on the school staff will report the suspected abuse to the proper agency.
Child Custody At the time of school entry or at any other time when a change in custody status/arrangements occurs, it is the responsibility of the parent(s) to provide the principal with a copy of the legal document from the parent for any student for which there is a legal custody agreement or for any student not residing with his/her parent. School communication with the appropriate guardian is essential. Accordingly: Custodial parents must identify in writing other adults who may have access to information regarding their child. Non-custodial parents may receive information (when requested) regarding the child unless specific documentation to the contrary is provided in the legal custody agreement.
Non-custodial parents may pick up a child only if written permission has been granted by the custodial parent. Custodial Parents/Guardians are entitled to receive original sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.
Non-custodial Parents/Guardians are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such Parents/Guardians are asked to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency. Non-Custodial Parents must also provide the office with a current email address to receive office communication.
It is the responsibility of both Custodial and Non- Custodial parents to provide the school with copies of custody and / or visitation papers.
It is the responsibility of the Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian to inform the teacher and the office of their request for information.
It is the responsibility of the Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian to inform the teacher and the office of current email addresses.
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Communication
Since as Parents/Guardians you are the child’s first teachers, you are our partners in education. Therefore, regular communication with you is an essential part of your child’s school experience. Scheduled Parent/Guardian conferences allow teachers and Parents/Guardians to discuss student achievement as well as to develop means to assist students in areas of difficulty.
A Parent/Guardian may request a meeting with a teacher at any time by simply sending a note or email to the teacher in question and the teacher will arrange for this meeting outside of class time at a mutually convenient time. A Parent/Guardian who is refused such a meeting should notify the principal.
(All communication between parents and teachers must be conducted via a teacher’s official school email address. Parents should not attempt to contact teachers via personal email.)
Such a meeting should take place in the classroom or other location inside the school that ensures privacy, never in a hallway, a store or the parking lot, etc. Parents/Guardians are discouraged from discussing school/student concerns on school/parish grounds during drop off or at dismissal.
Parent-teacher conferences will be scheduled each year in conjunction with report card distribution to provide an opportunity for in-depth discussion of student growth. Parent- teacher conferences are required at the end of the first marking period. Parent attendance at this first conference is required. Teachers are expected to be reasonably available to parents throughout the school year in order to keep open the lines of communication in the best interest of the students. Parents can expect a response from a teacher within 48 hours.
Email Communication with Teachers and Office Personnel In our technology driven society email has become a most valuable means of communication. Faculty and Staff at Immaculate Conception School are most willing to respond to communication from parents. Students should never communicate with school personnel via email. A parent’s expectation for a response should be within 48 hours during the school week. More often than not a response will be received sooner. Parents should not rely on email communication with teachers in the evening as means of receiving homework assistance. Our teachers are most conscientious and often will check for messages in the evening or on the weekend however they are not required to do so.
Our most used method of Parent Communication is our Bloomz App. All parents are required to use this app in order to receive information from the Principal, Page 23 of 112
Office, Teachers and ICSFA (Immaculate Conception School-Family Association). Guidelines for use will be distributed under separate cover.
Please note:
Bloomz is meant to be used for quick exchanges of information between teachers and parents. Email should remain the primary method for parents and teachers to discuss student progress, behavior, other confidential matters, etc.
Communication between parent and principal should be conducted via email. The Principal can be contacted at [email protected]
Please note the following Guidelines offered by our ICSFA:
ICS Communication Guidelines
If your child is sick and won't be in school today: Call the office (914-961-3785) and let Mrs. Conrad by 8:30 am. You can also send your child's teacher a message on Bloomz to give them a heads-up, but you must call the office to report an absence.
For any type of emergency, early pick up or change in pick up, or anything that must be reacted to before the end of the school day: Call the office. (914-961- 3785) Teachers may not check their email or Bloomz while they are teaching your children, so any urgent issues should go through the office via a phone call.
If you want to discuss your child something sensitive with their teacher: Send an email, and set up an appointment to meet when them or talk via a phone call. if necessary. You can send non-urgent messages to teachers on Bloomz, but please refrain from using Bloomz for anything sensitive or confidential. Drop off and pick up times are not the time to discuss your child with a teacher. Teachers' email are all their first initial followed by their last name @ icschoolonline.org.
If you don't know what the homework assignment is (or what uniform your child should wear tomorrow, or whether they need to bring X to school...): Check your child's planner, Bloomz, or Google Classroom (in upper grades) for details about assignments. Or, reach out to a fellow parent - Class Reps are great for handling questions like these! If all else fails, ask the teacher. Class Reps will gather and Page 24 of 112
send out class lists of children’s and parent’s names and emails and phone numbers. You can also message parents through Bloomz. These lists will be sent out in late September after Back to School Night
If you need to get in touch with Ms. Harten: Send her an email ([email protected]). Ms. Harten does not use Bloomz for communication with individual parents. She will respond to your email as soon as possible. As a best practice, your child’s teacher is the first line of communication for anything relating to your child. Copy in Ms. Harten and she will follow up and partner with the teachers as needed.
If you want to contact another parent or ask a question about an ICSFA event: Send a message to the ICSFA account on Bloomz. This account is checked regularly and your message will be responded to in a timely manner. General questions? https://www.icschoolonline.org is another great resource including the uniform code, school handbook, school calendar, lunch information and more!
Please print the following information and keep it posted at home for easy reference. School website: icschoolonline.org ICS Office email blast will be sent from: (usernames/passwords are not needed to view these sites) [email protected] ICSFA email blast will be sent from: School phone number: 914-961-3785 [email protected] School Fax Number – 914-961-6054 (these are “do not reply” addresses)
Ms. Harten –Principal ext. 122 Our Primary means of sending information will [email protected] be through Bloomz. Please be sure you have Mrs. Conrad-Main Office - ext. 123 signed up to receive notifications from the [email protected] principal, office, teachers, club leaders, Mrs. Ranallo–Admissions and Tuition – ext. 122 ICSFA, etc. [email protected] Mrs. McDonnell - Nurse – ext. 104 Parents/Guardians must: [email protected] maintain a current email address Ms. Centrone –After Care -TBD
[email protected] Should you change your email, please send an Rectory Phone Number – 914-961-3643 email to:
Mrs. Conrad [email protected] Sr. Cora -PREP – Sacrament Preparation Office
914-961-1076 [email protected]
Student Information System Immediate Response Information Username and password for each family will be provided by Main System I.R.I.S. Office when the system is fully functional. Emergency Communication Page 25 of 112
This site allows parents to check school progress; grades, assignments, projects, quizzes, tests, etc. Provided by Main Office when a Families should access this site regularly or usernames and student is enrolled. This is used passwords will become invalid & lock your access). for emergency/important announcements such as: school Website: adnysis.org/cornerstone closing, delayed openings or early Username: Provided by Main Office dismissals due to weather, etc. Password: Provided by Main Office Families are responsible for updating Contact E. Ranallo with any problems. info on a regular basis. ______Teacher emails are his/her: Website: www.useiris.com first initial, last name @icschoolonline.org Username: Provided by Main Office The Principal can be reached at: Password: Provided by Main [email protected] Office
Contact E. Ranallo if any problems.
Confidentiality
There is a professional, legal and moral ethic that requires all persons to safeguard all student information of a privileged nature. It is imperative that such information be regarded as a sacred trust.
If there is evidence of knowledge that could impact on the health or safety of any person, the teacher has the responsibility to share the information with the principal. Under Section 423 of the Child Protective Services Act, school officials are required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child coming before them in their professional or official capacity is an abused or maltreated child. (See section on Child Abuse.)
The rules that govern privileged information apply, as well, to any personal or academic information that is discovered through daily classroom instruction or other social interaction with students, Parents/Guardians or peers. Always the sense of confidentiality should prevail.
Contacts with the Media Parents have the right to exclude their children from videotaping, audio recording, school pictures, other photography or participation involving printed materials or on the Internet. Parents should provide such documentation to the school, office, otherwise, they must fill out the media authorization and release form. If enrolled in a regional Page 26 of 112
school, this media authorization and release was embedded within the online registration process, so the written form is not required unless a family wishes to change their preference during the course of the school year. Parents, please note: if you do not sign a media release form for your child he/she may be excluded from schoolwide events such as: Christmas Pageant, Thanksgiving Feast, Spring Show, other events where photos will be taken to highlight our school programs, etc.
Crisis/ Emergency Information
Should a crisis require evacuation from Immaculate Conception School building, students will be brought to a safe place located at either Immaculate Conception Church, Concordia College, Assumption Church or Waverly School and Parents/Guardians can meet them there. In the event of an emergency evacuation Parents/Guardians should access our web-site www.icschoolonline.org for the information regarding the evacuation site.
Please Note: In the event of an evacuation parents are reminded that they may not take a child from the class line during the evacuation process. For security reasons parents must wait until the students arrive at the evacuation site and follow proper sign- out procedures.
Catholic schools throughout the Archdiocese of New York utilize the Immediate Response Information System (IRIS Alert) to notify parents directly about the crises.
For further information concerning the crisis, Parent/Guardians can refer to the following: Radio On the Dial On the Internet WFAS 103.9 FM www.wfasfm.com Television News 12 Channel 12 www.news12.com
Because IRIS has become our primary method of communication for school emergencies. information may or may not be available on these media sites. Parents/Guardians are responsible for keeping contact information on the IRIS website current. If phone numbers or emails change during the year please change these on your IRIS account. Usernames and passwords are distributed to all families.
Daily Schedule
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The following schedule will be observed by Grades PreK – 8:
8:00 a.m. Arrival on School Grounds 8:10 a.m.* Enter School 8:25 a.m. Morning Prayers and Announcements 11:10 a.m. -12:05 p.m. First Lunch/Recess Pre-K, K, 11:50 a.m. -12:45 p.m. Second Lunch/Recess Gr. 1,2, 3, 4 12:30 p.m.– 1:25 p.m. Third Lunch/Recess Gr. 5, 6, 7, 8 3:00 p.m. Dismissal 11:30 a.m. Early Dismissal Days
*Please note: Instruction for Grades 5-8 begins as soon as students enter the classroom. It is imperative that students arrive on time by 8:10 so that they do not miss this critical period before prayers and announcements. For all grades arriving after 8:10 is disruptive to the daily homeroom routines.
Before 8:00 a.m. and after 3:10 p.m. Immaculate Conception School does not have staff available to supervise children on school grounds. Students must not arrive on the school grounds prior to 8:00 a.m. and Parent/Guardians must arrange pickup at dismissal time 3:00 p.m.
After 3:10 p.m. students who have not been picked up will automatically be sent to our After Care Program. Fees will be charged accordingly.
To avoid interruption during the school day, any messages, forgotten lunches, books, boots, etc., must be taken to the office and not to the classrooms. The school office will see to it that the child receives these items. To insure maximum class time and instruction are achieved interruptions must be kept to a minimum. Parents/Guardians are strongly encouraged to refrain from changing pick-up procedures during the day.
In the event of an emergency the office will gladly communicate changes to students, but office staff cannot be expected to interrupt instruction either by visiting classrooms or utilizing the PA system to deliver messages regarding a change in plans. Page 28 of 112
Messages will be communicated to homerooms at the conclusion of regularly scheduled classes. (2:40). It is possible that messages received after this time, when the office and classes are conducting dismissal procedures, may not be deliverable.
If Parents/Guardians do not arrive at school by dismissal children will be cared for by our After Care staff. Appropriate fees will be charged. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to avoid this by being punctual at dismissal.
Discipline Code for Student Conduct
The goal of discipline in a Catholic school is for students to learn self-discipline, which strengthens and promotes the values incorporated in our Catholic faith community. As the school builds community, it develops in students the awareness that sensible rules serve to safeguard the individual's freedom and provide an atmosphere conducive to learning. Disciplinary measures should have as an end the development of the human person who respects one's self, other persons and those in authority. By enrolling a child in this school the parent agrees to be supportive of the rules and regulations that we deem as critical in the spiritual, academic, and behavioral growth of the child. Teachers discipline students directly for minor classroom disruptions or infractions of acceptable behavior. Some examples are: disrupting class talking out throwing objects unnecessary movements wearing inappropriate clothing using profane language not returning required paperwork/communication not coming prepared to class not being in the complete school uniform; not completing assigned homework not completing assigned classwork minor verbal disputes with other classmates etc.
Parents are notified of classroom problems by the teacher and are asked to help the teacher to insure that inappropriate behavior is modified.
Teachers are not permitted to use corporal punishment on any child. Perceived acts of corporal punishment should be reported to the principal of the school immediately by students and/or parents.
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It happens that some classroom discipline issues are referred to the administration of this school. This would include chronic minor problems listed above and major problems as follows but not limited to: chronic lateness the verbal abuse of the teacher by a child signs of disrespect to a teacher or another adult on the staff fighting physical, sexual, or verbal harassment of a fellow student bullying of a fellow student violent behavior stealing/ theft smoking vandalism /defacing or destruction of school property Suspicion of cheating, evidence of cheating, and other forms of dishonesty evidence of violent and aggressive behavior that poses a threat to the safety of others and to the school community possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, cigarettes, alcohol, lasers, or dangerous items or a weapon behaving in a manner that suggest the use of alcohol or illegal drugs (see section on Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy) carrying weapons and other objects deemed to be potentially dangerous to others and to the school community bringing to school amounts of money unrelated to standard school activities and events showing by word or deed serious disrespect to others possession of pornographic material inappropriate use of technology (see section on Telecommunications Policy) persistent misbehavior over minor matters that continue to be unacceptable disrespect of the race or gender of others verbal, written and or physical threats made by any student toward any other student, staff member, and any other member of our school and parish community, or the physical plant. other behavior deemed inappropriate by the administration and faculty etc.
The administration handles such matters in a variety of ways depending on the severity of the incident and the age of the student.
The school employs a progressive discipline system for minor acts of misbehavior in order to encourage students to change inappropriate behavior so that sanctions do not increase in severity. For minor acts as determined by the Principal, students are often given Page 30 of 112
Conduct Referrals indicating that a violation of the discipline code has been displayed by a student. More severe violations will be assigned a Detention Notice ‘. Violations by upper grade students are dealt with more severely than with lower grade students. Uniform Notices are issued indicating that a violation of the dress code has been displayed by a student.
After school and lunchtime detentions are acceptable forms of discipline. When students are given after school detentions, a written notification will be sent to the parent/guardian. The student will serve the detention on the day indicated on the detention notification. Chronic lateness can result in detention. Lunchtime detention may be assigned when faculty and administration agree that removing a student from the company of their peers at lunch and recess will have a greater impact on changing negative behavior.
Any combination of three uniform notices and/ or conduct referrals equal one detention. An accumulation of three detentions can be cause for suspension. An accumulation of suspensions can be cause for expulsion procedures.
Repeated violation of these rules and regulations may result in suspension from school or the non-reregistration of the child for the next school year. For more serious acts of misbehavior such as, but not limited to, fighting, stealing, vandalism, and harassment, the student is immediately suspended for a period of one to five days. In cases of vandalism, the parent must pay the full cost of the repair or replacement of the item before the child may return to school. In cases of theft, the item is either returned in good condition or the cost of replacement is borne by the parent before the child can return to school.
In cases where a child engages in a fight which causes injury to another child or adult, the police may be summoned and, then, the parents will be notified. Likewise, the possession of drugs or alcohol by a child is reported to the police. The school reserves the right to request an expulsion from the Superintendent of Schools for such an offense.
In cases in which a child brings a weapon to school, the police are summoned and then the parents will be notified. Likewise, the possession of drugs or alcohol by a child is reported to the police. The school reserves the right to request an expulsion from the Superintendent of Schools for any serious offense.
Individual-directed threats of violence or harm communicated directly or indirectly by any means, as well as building-directed threats of violence or harm communicated directly or indirectly by any means (e.g., shooting, bomb threats), or to harm students, employees, or visitors are taken seriously. Upon knowledge of the threats, the principal will notify the Regional Superintendent and call the parents. The Office of the Superintendent will also be notified and, along with administration, will determine the Page 31 of 112
course of action to be taken up to and including calling law enforcement, requiring a mental health referral and/or expulsion.
It is the expectation of this school that student behavior is exemplary both on and off school grounds. A student always represents the entire school community. Therefore, the school reserves the right to discipline students for acts such as, but not limited to: stealing, fighting, vandalism, bullying or any other type of threatening or inappropriate misconduct (personally, via telephone, or the internet). Such misconduct could result in punishments including suspension and/or expulsion.
Lastly, a child’s arrest for a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, at any time could result in the child’s suspension or expulsion. A child’s conviction of a crime on or off of school grounds, within or beyond the vicinity of the school, will likely result in a child’s expulsion.
In certain instances of unacceptable behavior, administration reserves the right to ask that a student remain at home until an investigation of this behavior can be conducted. This situation would be required to insure the physical and emotional well being of all students and staff. These instances may or may not be considered suspensions depending on the severity of the infraction and the age of the student(s) involved. A conference with administration and parents/guardians will be held before the student is allowed to return to school. Under normal circumstances, this conference would be held within 5 school days.
Suspension and expulsion are measures that are reserved for chronic forms of misbehavior that have not responded to other remedial measures. Suspension and expulsion are also measures that are reserved for extreme form of misbehavior such as fighting, criminal acts, scandal, immorality, disruption constituting a threat to the physical or moral welfare of other students or staff members or acting in a way on of off campus that damages the good name and reputation of the school and parish.
Suspensions can be served as “in-school” or “out-of-school” penalties. During suspensions students are required secure all assignments and to submit all work upon their return to class. Suspended students however are not permitted contact with classmates, may not participate in any school functions such as practices, or games, etc, and may be prevented from completing tests administered on the day(s) of their suspension. Such exclusion will result in a grade of zero for any missed test.
For more serious acts of misbehavior such as fighting, stealing, vandalism, swearing at or being disrespectful to an adult in the building, and harassment, the student is Page 32 of 112
immediately suspended for a period of one to five days. In cases of vandalism, the Parent/Guardian must pay the full cost of the repair or replacement of the item before the child may return to school. In cases of theft, the item is either returned in good condition or the cost of replacement is borne by the Parent/Guardian before the child can return to school.
Poor behavior and conduct grades may prevent a student from participating in after school activities, clubs, practices, sports, etc.
In the event a student is suspected of cheating by any means including accessing a personal communication device while a test is in progress or during class assignments serious consequences will follow. These consequences will include the assignment of “zero” to the tests or assignments in question, drop in conduct grade, disqualification for honors, including membership in the National Junior Honor Society, suspension, and other consequences to be determined by Administration.
Several grounds for disciplinary action or expulsion have been set forth in the “Discipline Codes” section of this handbook. It should be noted, however, that any listing of prohibited conduct is set forth by way of example only and to provide guidance to the student and his or her parents/guardians. It is not meant to be and exhaustive listing of improper conduct or resultant disciplinary action.
Dress Code Your school uniform confirms your attendance at Immaculate Conception School and is a symbol of unity within the school community. It minimizes distractions in the learning process. It is important that you take pride in your appearance by wearing your complete uniform always remembering that by wearing it inside and outside the classroom and the school you are representing the school and your behavior should be a credit to both yourself and the school community.
General
All skirts and jumpers and shorts should be worn at knee length. All pants or slacks must be worn at the waist with a belt. Belts are required with both boys and girls pants. Boys pants should not be overly baggy. Girls slacks should not be tight. All shirts, blouses must be tucked in. “No Show” socks are not permitted. Belts are required with both boys and girls pants. Boys dress shirts must be buttoned to the top and worn with a school tie Students may opt to leave the top button on the golf shirt open Lace on socks or collars is not permitted (girls)
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School bags with wheels are not permitted
Only approved uniform items may be worn during the school day
Pre-Kindergarten
As you know our Pre-K students wear ICS uniforms. All jewelry, hair and miscellaneous dress code items also apply to PreK students. On a daily basis students in our 3’s and 4’s programs should wear sneakers, ICS golf shirt with either ICS gym shorts, sweatpants or skort (optional for girls). Slip on sneakers, Crocs, sandals, boots, etc. should not be worn.
Students may wear boots to school in rainy or snowy weather but parents must help their child change upon arriving at school.
On your child’s regularly scheduled gym day (teacher will inform each class) students should wear ICS gym shorts or sweatpants (no skorts or golf shirts on gym days).
A change of clothing should be left with the teacher. This does not need to be extra uniform items. If your child attends After Care another change of clothes should also be left with the After Care program.
Uniform items, including approved uniform shoes, must be purchased at Liebman’s located on the corner of Main and Church Streets, New Rochelle, NY 10801, 914-632-2770
Items to be purchased at Liebman’s:
Boys:
Golf shirt T-shirt Gym shorts Page 34 of 112
Sweatpants Sweatshirt (either option: crewneck or hoodie) (Sneakers can be purchased at the store of your choice)
Girls:
Golf shirt T-shirt Gym shorts Sweatpants Sweatshirt (either option: crewneck or hoodie) Skort (optional) (Sneakers can be purchased at the store of your choice)
Shorts and Short Sleeves are worn when summer uniform regulations are in effect (September, October, April, May, June).
Sweatpants and Long Sleeves are worn when winter uniform regulations are in effect (November – March).
Skort Option for girls:
The skort can be worn year round except on Gym days when either the shorts or sweatpants must be worn. Summer uniform regulations call for plain white socks (ankle or knee) to be worn (no tights with summer uniforms. Winter uniform regulations call for plain navy, gray or black socks (ankle or knee) or tights of the same colors to be worn.
Because sometimes little ones might have an accident, all PreK students should have a change of clothes in school. This does not need to be an extra school uniform, just an outfit that would be easy to change into. From time to time we will have special days for “Outfit of Choice!”
It all sounds complicated! Don’t worry we’ll walk you through it!
Students attending our Pre-Kindergarten programs are not required to wear uniforms. For the purpose of convenience parents may choose to utilize any of our school uniform items that are available in their child’s size.
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Clothing should be appropriate for school and the weather. Parents are reminded that students will engage in projects using glue, paint, etc. and should avoid sending children to school in ‘fancy outfits.’ Children should be easily able to adjust clothing when making use of bathroom facilities. ‘Crocs’, flip -flops, strapless sandals, or strapless shoes are not permitted. Sneakers are best! Sneakers must have laces, straps or Velcro fasteners. Boots should only be worn to and from school when inclement weather conditions warrant. Boots should be removed and replaced with other footwear while in school.
School Sweaters are required items for all students in grades Kindergarten through 8th Grade. All students must own a school sweater and must wear either the sweater or optional vest to school. On gym days students must wear an ICS Sweatshirt in lieu of the school sweater. School sweaters / sweatshirts are required to be worn in school. In the event of an emergency evacuation sweaters/sweatshirts are necessary for warmth as students may be required to remain outside for an extended period of time. If a student feels warm in class he/she is invited to remove his/her sweater or sweatshirt and hang it on the back of his/her chair for easy access in the event of an emergency. In the event we require full formal uniforms for pictures or events such as a visit from/to the Cardinal or other dignitary, students will be required to wear the school sweater, not vest. Students in the graduating class must retain their school sweater until they graduate. These will be required wear for the May Crowning and other functions.
Kindergarten Dress Code Although some of the items are the same as grades 1-8, the Kindergarten code is a simplified version of the upper grades, items should be purchased through our uniform company, Liebman’s.
Students may wear boots to school in rainy or snowy weather but students must change into school shoes upon arriving at school.
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Boys: Navy blue pants (winter) or shorts (summer) (not cargo style with side pockets) white ICS golf shirt (long or short sleeve depending on weather), white or dark socks, navy sweater (optional during warm weather). Black, leather shoes from Liebman’s, or black or white approved sneakers from Liebman’s.
Girls: Navy blue skort, white ICS golf shirt (long or short sleeve depending on weather), white, navy, black or gray anklet socks knee socks or tights, navy sweater (optional during warm weather). Black leather shoes from Liebman’s, or black or white approved sneakers from Liebman’s.
If parents opt to have their child wear sneakers with the formal uniform (kindergarten only), these sneakers should be the approved styles from Liebman’s. Liebman’s offers a 20% discount on footwear if both shoes and sneakers are purchased.
Grades 1-8 Winter Uniforms Students may wear boots to school in rainy or snowy weather but students must change into school shoes upon arriving at school.
Boys Grade 1-5: White dress shirt, school tie, blue pants (not cargo style with side pockets) and black belt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s. Blue school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Girls Grade 1-5: White blouse with Peter Pan collar, plaid tie, plaid jumper, black leather shoes from Liebman’s, navy or gray knee socks, cuffed socks or tights. Blue school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Optional: Navy uniform slacks. ****************************************************************************************************
Boys Grade 6-8: White dress shirt, school tie, black pants (not cargo style with side pockets) and black belt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s. Gray school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Girls Grade 6-8: Page 37 of 112
White pointed collar blouse, plaid skirt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s black, navy or gray knee socks, tights or nylons. Gray school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Optional: Black uniform slacks. Girls in grades 5-8 may not wear anklets with formal uniforms. Anklets may only be worn with gym suits.
Summer Uniforms (worn September and October and April, May and June)
Boys Grade 1-5: White ICS golf shirt, blue pants or blue shorts (not cargo style with side pockets) and black belt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s. Blue school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Girls Grade 1-5: White ICS golf shirt , light blue jumper, black leather shoes from Liebman’s, white knee socks, cuffed socks or tights Blue school sweater or optional vest.
Optional: Navy uniform slacks or skorts. ************************************************************************************* Boys Grades 6-8: White ICS golf shirt, black pants and black belt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s. Gray school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Girls Grades 6-8: White ICS golf shirt, gray skirt, black leather shoes from Liebman’s, white cuffed socks, white knee socks, tights or nylons. Gray school sweater or optional sweater vest.
Optional: Black uniform or slacks or skorts
Girls in grades 5-8 may not wear anklets with formal uniforms. Anklets may only be worn with gym suits.
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Optional for all Grades when Summer Uniform Code is in effect
Girls: Skort (may be worn either with the school shoes or a black or white sneaker that can be purchased from Leibman’s). The sneaker may also be used for gym.
Boys Shorts (not cargo style with side pockets) (may be worn either with the school shoes or a black or white sneaker that can be purchased from Leibman’s). The sneaker may also be used for gym. When both the approved sneaker and shoes are purchased through Liebman’s, there is a 20% discount on footwear.
All skirts and jumpers and shorts should be worn at knee length. All pants or slacks must be worn at the waist with a belt. Boys pants should not be overly baggy. Girls slacks should not be tight. All shirts, blouses must be tucked in. “No Show” socks are not permitted. Belts are required with both boys and girls pants.
Only approved uniform items may be worn during the school day.
Gym Suits for K- 8th On gym days both boys and girls wear the same uniform. All items should be purchased at Liebman’s (excluding sneakers, see below.)
Winter Uniform Navy ICS T-shirt or long sleeve T-shirt- (winter only) Navy ICS sweat shirt Navy ICS sweat pants White socks (no shows are not permitted) Sneakers: laces or Velcro fasteners (no slip-ons) Gym shorts may not be worn when winter uniform is in effect
Please note: Students may not wear turtlenecks, or other long sleeve shirts of any color under the ICS gym t-shirt. Students may opt to wear the long sleeve ICS gym shirt during the winter months in lieu of the ICS gym short sleeve t-shirt.
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Wearing the long sleeve t-shirt and/or the sweatshirt should be sufficient to keep a child warm in school.
Summer Uniform Navy ICS T-shirt Navy ICS sweat shirt Navy ICS sweat pants or ICS shorts White socks (no shows are not permitted) Sneakers: laces or Velcro fasteners (no slip-ons)
Optional – a hooded ICS sweatshirt is available to wear with gym suits for the winter months.
Shorts should be worn at knee level.
Note re: Sneakers Sneakers worn with the gym suit can be a parent’s choice. Sneakers should have laces or Velcro fasteners. Slip-on sneakers are not permitted. Such sneakers cause hazards to safety.
Please note: 5th grade is considered a transitional year for uniforms. Students may wear a combination of uniform items from either the 1-5 grade options or 6-8 grade options.
Students in 1st grade may continue to wear the long sleeve ICS golf shirt from Kindergarten. These long sleeve golf shirts may not be worn past 1st grade. Both boys and girls must also have the formal shirts and ties for winter uniform months and formal occasions or pictures. Grades 2-8 may not wear long sleeve golf shirts.
All students including PreK and Kindergarten
Hair -Hair should be neat and clean at all times. -Artificial colors may not be applied at any time. -Bangs should not fall below eyebrows. Page 40 of 112
-Boys – hair should be trimmed above the ears and should not touch the collar of the dress uniform shirt. Curly hair should not exceed the length of two inches above the head. -Girls –use of small reserved headbands, ponytail holders, barrettes, etc. is recommended. Colors should match uniform colors, gray, navy, white, black -Students must avoid extreme of fashion or style at all times. -Shaving of designs, symbols, etc. into hair is not permitted.
Administration reserves the right to determine if any hairstyle worn by a student meets the expected criteria. Disciplinary action may be taken if a student wears a hairstyle deemed inappropriate. Parents will be required to have the style modified before the next school day. Students may be removed from class in the event the hairstyle is deemed too extreme.
Facial Hair As boys mature, they should remain clean shaven.
Jewelry Girls may wear one small stud earring on each ear. Hoops or dangling earrings of any size or kind may not be worn. Boys may not wear earrings of any kind. Watches without sounds, alarms, calculators, etc. may be worn. No bracelets of any kind may be worn. No anklets of any kind may be worn. One small ring per hand may be worn. One small necklace with a Christian Religious symbol i.e. cross, saint, etc. may be worn. Miscellaneous Make up of any kind is not permitted. Only clear nail polish is permitted. Nails must be trimmed to the finger tip. Synthetic nails, nail extensions, artificial nails of any kind are not permitted. Tattoos of any kind are not permitted.
Dress Down Guidelines On occasion students may be allowed to dress down. Any infractions of these guidelines will result in a uniform referral being issued. Administration reserves the right to determine if students are in violation of guidelines. Page 41 of 112
o No leggings With permission jeans are permitted for Dress Down Days. Students should strictly adhere to these regulations: o No skinny jeans o No tight jeans o No baggy jeans (a belt should be worn so that jeans rest at the waist and underclothing is not visible) o No ripped jeans No strapless sandals No heels No tank tops No strapless or spaghetti strap tops or dresses No “belly” shirts No skin visible between tops and bottoms No spandex Shorts are permitted but should be “Bermuda” shorts or Bermuda short length Shorts/pants should not be excessively baggy Basketball / athletics shorts / pants are permitted but should be tied and worn at the waist Skirts are permitted but should be a length that is appropriate to wear to a Catholic school Capris are permitted Pants / skirts /shorts with signage across the derriere are not permitted No make-up No nail polish (only clear) No Synthetic nails, nail extensions, or artificial nails of any kind. Jewelry code remains the same as uniform code No shirts with derogatory comments or foul language Administration reserves the right to determine if any outfit worn by a student meets the expected criteria. Disciplinary action may be taken if a student wears an outfit deemed inappropriate. Parents will be called to bring an appropriate outfit to school and students will be removed from class until appropriate clothing is brought to school.
Girls and Boys: The presence of anything that proclaims a current fad is not permitted at any time.
Dress Up Guidelines
On occasion students may be allowed to dress up. Parents should be guided by what is usually referred to as “Sunday Best.” Any infractions of these guidelines will result in a uniform referral being issued. Administration reserves the right to determine if students are in violation of guidelines.
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No jeans No sneakers No leggings No strapless sandals No heels No tank tops No strapless or spaghetti strap tops or dresses No “belly” shirts No skin visible between tops and bottoms No spandex No shorts Skirts are permitted but should be a length that is appropriate to wear to a Catholic school Capris are permitted Pants / skirts /shorts with signage across the derriere are not permitted No make-up No nail polish (only clear) No Synthetic nails, nail extensions, or artificial nails of any kind. Jewelry code remains the same as uniform code No shirts with derogatory comments or foul language Outfits should be appropriate for attendance at Mass or a special family celebration.
Administration reserves the right determine if any outfit worn by a student meets the expected criteria. Disciplinary action may be taken if a student wears an outfit deemed inappropriate. Parents will be called to bring an appropriate outfit to school.
Girls and Boys: The presence of anything that proclaims a current fad is not permitted at any time.
Personal Appearance
A good personal hygiene routine should be followed daily: ears, neck, and fingernails should be given special attention. When appropriate, children should be instructed in the use of deodorant.
Uniforms should be neat and clean.
Hair should be clean and well groomed. Boys hair must not extend below the ear or dress shirt collar nor should it extend longer than 2 inches from the scalp. Bangs should not be so long that they impede vision. Administration reserves the right to approve haircut/style and require any needed adjustment.
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Parent/Guardians will be notified if a child comes to school consistently in an unkempt manner. If no improvement is noticed within a reasonable amount of time, an appointment with the Parent/Guardians and with the guidance office will be made by school officials.
Drop Off at the Beginning of the School Day
Parents/guardians are reminded that punctuality is important for a smooth beginning to the school day. Lack of punctuality will be reflected in Conduct grades on the report card. All students should arrive between 8:00 and 8:10 a.m. Kindergarten and Pre-K children should be dropped off at the Cafeteria doors. Parents do not enter the building. Students in the Little House Pre-K should be escorted directly to the Little House. Students in K – 8th Grade report to their line and wait for their teachers to escort the students to class. In cold or inclement weather students will be admitted into the Cafeteria at 8:00 a.m. Parents of students in Grades PreK-8 should not enter the Cafeteria. Students in Grades PreK - 8 should be dropped off at the Cafeteria door and then walk to the assigned area for his / her class. Cars can utilize the lower parking lot in the morning. After parking parents/guardians should escort children to their lines or the building. Children are never allowed to walk through the parking lot unescorted. Cars are not permitted to utilize the first two rows of parking spaces that are dedicated for staff. A second option is: Cars should move through the line of traffic in the upper lot to allow students to exit the cars and walk to their line or down the stairs to the Cafeteria. No supervision is provided in the yard or the Cafeteria before 8:00 a.m. Students should not be dropped off earlier than 8:00 a.m. Families of students in PreK 4-8th needing an earlier drop off can utilize the Before Care Program beginning at 7:30 a.m. Fees apply for this service.
Drug and Alcohol Policies
In recognition of the seriousness of drug and alcohol problems to which the children are exposed, Immaculate Conception School will follow the policy as stated below:
if a teacher suspects that a child is under the influence of either drugs or alcohol, the matter will be referred to the principal immediately the principal will verify the teacher’s observation and will notify parents/guardians if the student confirms suspicion or appears unstable, student should be brought to the attention of the School Nurse.(as per Emergency Guidelines) Page 44 of 112
if necessary, the principal will call 911 (as per Emergency Guidelines) The police may be called if the student is in possession of any legal substance (as per Emergency Guidelines) Parent/Guardians must pick up the child immediately should it be determined that the suspicion is founded, parents/guardians will be expected to follow the recommendations of the school principal if the child is to continue in the school and any student who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug, and appears at a school function in questionable condition will be barred from attending or participating in that ceremony, a party, dance, or school outing. Parents/Guardians will be notified and appropriate action will be taken which may include suspension or expulsion from the school. Electronic Devices
Electronic devices may be dynamic tools in the 21st century school environment, but only when used appropriately by faculty, administration, staff, and students.
The use of electronic devices by faculty, administration, staff and students must be appropriate to the educational setting, and may not distract the student, other students, or the class as a whole during the course of the school day and after school. (i.e., cell phones, iPads, iPhones other smart phones, Smart Watches, tablets, (any make or model and other personal electronic devices). In the event an electronic device, including a student cell phone, is believed to contain evidence of a violation of school policy and/or a threat to the school community, the individual possessing the electronic device is obliged to grant the administration of the school access to the device and the information on the device to ensure compliance with policy and the safety of the school.
Samsung Galaxy phones are not permitted on campus.
Inappropriate use of any electronic device may result in serious consequences as stated in the school’s Technology Use Policy.
Strict guidelines regarding communication devices including mobile/cell phones, smart phones, smart watches,tablets, (any make or model) and other personal electronic devices, walkie-talkies, etc. must be adhered to. They are as follows:
For Students Communication devices must not be turned on and must remain in school bags, at all times while they are in the school building, during the school day, during recess or other free periods, during bathroom breaks, or while attending after school programs, classes, activities, clubs, practices, rehearsals, etc.
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If it has been determined that a communication device has been turned on, or is found to be outside the school bag, this device will be confiscated and sent to the office. If a student has a communication device taken from him/her more than once because it was turned on or found to be outside of the school bag, this student will not be allowed to carry a communication device to school. “Two strikes – you’re out!” Confiscated devices will only be returned to a parent/guardian during normal school office hours Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. If it can be determined that a student used their communication device during the school day, this device will be confiscated and sent to the office. The devices will only be returned to a parent/guardian during normal school office hours Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. -3:30 p.m. A student whose communication device has been confiscated because it was used without permission will not be permitted to bring such device to school again. “One strike – you’re out!” Any communication device that is determined to contain inappropriate material will be confiscated and turned over to proper authorities. Penalties for such an offense will be determined by these authorities and supported by the school’s administration. All of the above applies to the use of electronic devices at any time a student is on campus at any time including before or after school activities, such as but not limited to: Before Care After Care Clubs Sports practices or games Cheerleading Show rehearsal Service activities Etc.
Although we recognize the need for a child to establish communication with a parent to arrange for pick up from an activity, students may not use their phones etc. without the permission of the adult in charge of the activity.
Periodic checks of bags, desks, jackets, pockets, etc. will be conducted to insure that prohibited devices have not been brought to school and that acceptable devices are secured in school bags within the closets.
In the event a student is suspected to have accessed a personal communication device in order to cheat on a test or other class assignment, consequences will follow. These consequences will include the assignment of “zero” to the tests or assignments in question, drop in conduct grade, disqualification for honors, including membership in the National Junior Honor Society, suspension, and other consequences to be determined by Administration.
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Because of the current conditions in society, we have adjusted our policy regarding possession and use of communication devices. Students in grades 5-8 are permitted to use e-readers in school. Although we have determined good cause for students to carry these devices to school, we in no way wish families to feel obligated to provide one for their child. Please know that the school will not assume responsibility for any device that is brought to school, Staff focus must remain on the academic, emotional, spiritual, and safety concerns of our students. Please be confident of your child’s ability to assume full responsibility for any device brought to school. Parent/ Guardians are reminded that the school phone system should be utilized when contact with a student is necessary. In the event of an emergency when our school phone system may be inadequate or rendered unusable, students may be given permission to turn on their personal cell phones to facilitate communication with family.
Other electronic devices such as, but not limited to iPods, eReaders, tablets, or any other such device yet to be invented, are not permitted in school. Students should not carry such to school with them. If they chose to enjoy them while traveling to school in the family car, they should leave them in the car when exiting. Students who travel to and from school by other means of transportation should not carry these devices with them. Any such device found, whether or not in use, will be confiscated.
‘Fitbits’ and other exercise tracking devices may not be worn in school. Apple or other Smart watches may not be worn in school
Students may not bring any electronic devices for use in the After Care Program.
Headphones or earbuds are required items for instruction, Students must keep a pair in school at all times. Headphones or earbuds may only be used in the classroom for work as assigned by the teacher. All students in grades PrK- 8 are required to supply their personal set of headphones or earbuds to be used during instructional time. Parents should supply their child with an inexpensive set. Expensive brands such as Beats, etc. are not permitted. Students may not share these devices. The School will not be responsible for damage or loss of any device. Because of diminished awareness of surrounding sounds, students should not wear earbuds or headphones while in the parking lot.
Calculators are not permitted in school unless a teacher gives specific permission on specific days to be used during instruction. Cameras are not permitted in school. Students are not permitted to bring lap-tops to school. With permission, students may occasionally be permitted to use the camera function on their phones.
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All of the above restrictions apply during school trips.
For educational purposes some exceptions may be made to allow students to use various electronic devises for class work or presentations. Use of such devices requires specific permission from administration.
Emergency Closings/Delayed Openings
In the event of delayed openings, early dismissals or school closings due to inclement weather or other emergency conditions the school will disclose this information in a variety of ways. Information will be: Communicated through the IRIS System posted on our website listed with WFAS and Channel 12 Communicated through [email protected] Communicated through parent email/phone chains
Families are not encouraged to call the school for information.
If media announces that the Schools of the Archdiocese of New York, or the Westchester Catholic Schools are closed, Immaculate Conception School will also be closed.
If an emergency should arise during the course of the school day that determines the need to close school, all attempts will be made to contact parents/guardians to pick up their children. It is most important that families supply the office with updated contact information; home, cell and work numbers, email address, emergency contacts, etc.
Also families will be asked to supply the school with the names and contact information of alternative adults who are authorized to pick up their child(ren). Students will never be left unattended or locked out of the school building in emergency situations It is however, most important for families to make every effort to make arrangements for early pick up when an emergency calls for this action. This cooperation allows for staff members to arrive home safely.
When a school in the Archdiocese is closed for the day due to inclement weather or other unforeseen situation, the following will apply: All school-related extracurricular activities, interscholastic contests, team practices and field trips will be cancelled After School and/or extended day care programs will be closed all day.
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The IRIS system has become our primary method of communication for school emergencies. Parents/Guardians are responsible for keeping contact information current. Usernames and passwords are distributed to all families
Expectations and Responsibilities for Students
Students attend Immaculate Conception School in order to develop fully their God-given talents and capabilities. To accomplish this, students are asked to:
try to do their best work at all times.
treat all members of the school community (i.e. peers, teachers, staff, priests, Parent/Guardians and students) with respect. This includes respecting the work of others by not cheating.
obey all school rules and regulations, including those forbidding the use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or disruptive behavior.
develop personal standards of conduct that reflect Christian morals and behavior, and refrain from use of inappropriate language, verbal threats, and sexual behavior (including touching, gestures, writing, pictures and dress).
speak in a well-modulated tone of voice.
observe the school dress code, including standards on no-uniform days.
help care for school property and keep the school free from damage and defacement.
report concerns to an adult, especially if they witness what they know to be a violent or criminal act or become aware of a potentially violent or criminal act in school or at a school function
Extracurricular Activities
Students are encouraged to participate in the extracurricular activities of the school. Participation in these activities is a privilege. Students are expected to fulfill their obligations in the classroom (class work and homework). In order to participate in extracurricular activities, students must pass each subject on their report card and model acceptable behavior both during the school day and during the selected activity. Failure to meet academic or behavioral requirements will result in the student’s suspension or dismissal from the activity. Participation in these activities requires a commitment of both student and Parent/Guardian. Attendance will be taken Page 49 of 112
at each activity to determine a student’s participation. In individual cases regarding participation in extracurricular activities, the principal holds the final determination. If a child is absent from school he/she may not participate in any after school activity on that day.
Faculty Meetings
Faculty meetings are scheduled throughout the year. Please refer the calendar for specific dates when early dismissal will be held. Please make arrangements for your child to be either picked up at dismissal or sent to the After Care Program. Usual dismissal time on these days will be 11:30 a.m.
Field Trips
Field trips must serve an educational purpose and their value should be an integral part of the school’s instructional program. They broaden the students’ educational experiences. Field trips are privileges given to students; no student has a right to a field trip.
Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals. Field trips vary on each grade level. Field trips are permissible when advanced planning, location, and the experience ensure 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 or behavior. A written official permission slip, signed by the Parent/Guardian, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip. Verbal or faxed permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due no later than the stated deadline. Families will be billed through Smart Tuition for field trips. Fees for each trip will be determined based on the cost of each trip and transportation necessary to visit the site. Because arrangements and payment must be finalized in advance of the trip date and are based on the number of attendees, trip fees are not refundable if a student cannot attend for any reason. Families are urged to submit permission slips as soon as possible after receiving trip information.
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Deadlines for submission of payment and permission slips will be adhered to firmly. Permission slips will not be accepted after the stated deadline.
Trips fees will be billed through Smart Tuition. Submission of a signed permission slip is considered a contract for payment for the trip. Refunds will not be given should a child not attend a trip.
Since chewing gum is not permitted on school grounds, chewing gum is not permitted on any field trip. All approved chaperones must travel to and from the trip location on the school bus. Parents and other family members may not travel in private cars in order to meet the group at the site. No child will be released to a parent or guardian at the site. Siblings are not permitted to attend school trips. All trips are scheduled as a full day of school. Students may not be dismissed early upon arrival back at school.
Our school nurse does not attend any school trip. If an epi pen with documentation for use has been provided to the school by the parent that medication will be given to the teacher traveling with the class. No other medication will be allowed on any class trip however teachers and other staff members cannot be required to administer the epi pen.
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2019-2020 Tuition and Fees
Immaculate Conception School 53 Winter Hill Road, Tuckahoe, NY 10707
Education carries many costs – technology upgrades, resource materials, personnel, building maintenance, utilities – all with increasing price tags. Tuition is significantly lower than the actual cost to educate each child due to the commitment of the Archdiocese and His Eminence Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan to Catholic education. Teachers, administrators and staff work together to ensure that our schools are Christ-centered, academically excellent, and welcoming communities, preparing students to be life-long learners and leaders energized by fidelity to Christ, the Church, and one another.
Tuition (K-8) The annual tuition for 2019-2020 is $7,950.00. The Archdiocesan Family Grant is $1,400.00 per eligible child.
Please refer to the table below to identify your family’s annual tuition obligation. # of Children (K-8) 2019-2020 Tuition Archdiocesan Family Annual Tuition Obligation (2) Rate Grant (1) 1 $7,950.00 n/a $7,950.00 2 $15,900.00 ($2,800.00) $13,100.00 3 $23,850.00 ($4,200.00) $19,650.00 4 $31,800.00 ($5,600.00) $26,200.00
Tuition (Pre-K)
Pre-K 5 Full Days $8,550.00 Eligible to receive with older siblings in school
Additional Fees Registration Fee: $ 225.00 per child; incentive rate of $ 125.00 per child if registration is completed by April 15, 2019 SMART Tuition Admin Fee: $40 per family (payable in the first billing month) Family Fundraising Fee: $350 (Spread with Tuition) Page 52 of 112
Graduation Fee (8th grade): $225 (Spread with Tuition) Technology Fee (5th grades): $275 (Payable in 2 payments September & October) Technology Fee (K-4 & 6-8 grades)$35 (Payable in 2 payments September & October)
The annual tuition and fees are billed over 10 months from July to April. Your SMART tuition account can only be activated when enrollment in TADS is completed and the registration fees are paid for all children attending. (Late enrollment will shorten the payment period available, increasing the monthly payment.) Tuition and fees must be paid directly to SMART Tuition by the designated due date. Payments cannot be accepted at the school.
1. Archdiocesan Family Grant: Tuition reduction for families who have two or more students enrolled full time at this school (does not include UPK students) 2. Annual Tuition Obligation : This amount will be lower if you are eligible to apply for and receive financial aid, or are the recipient of a legacy or transfer grant
Financial Policies
We make every effort to keep tuition and fees as affordable as possible. We also understand the financial sacrifice that parents make to send their children to Catholic school. The majority of the School’s funding is derived from tuition and fees. The school must operate in a financially sound manner in order to provide a top quality Catholic education for each and every one of our students.
The school’s policy at the time of registration is that all tuition and fees will be paid on time. Tuition is an annual fee that may be paid in monthly installments. Tuition must be paid directly to Smart Tuition by the designated due date.
WITHDRAWALS AND REFUNDS
Considerable effort and expense is expended throughout the registration period and continues during the summer months as we plan and prepare for your child’s inclusion in our school community. We understand that plans and circumstances sometimes change. Should you decided to withdraw your child, the following policy applies: • If written notice of withdrawal is received by the school prior to July 1on or before August 15, the entire portion of the tuition due tuition obligation will be waived, and if paid, any payments made will be refunded upon written request to the school. • If written notice of withdrawal is received by the school from July 1 through August 31after August 15th and the student does not attend, 90% of the tuition will be forgiven. The family is obligated to pay the remaining balance of 10% of the annual tuition as billed. If payments were made in excess of 10% of the annual tuition, a refund for that amount will be refunded upon written request to the school. • If a family Page 53 of 112
chooses to withdraw their child(ren) from the school once they begin attending, the family tuition obligation will be calculated as follows: • Withdrawal Date Annual Tuition Obligation September 80% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 20% October 70% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 30% November 60% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 40% December 50% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 50% January 40% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 60% February 30% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 70% March 20% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 80% Page 20 of 51
April 10% of tuition forgiven; family obligation 90% May No adjustment; family obligation 100% June No adjustment; family obligation 100%
• Calculations will be based on the last month in which the child(ren) attended one or more days of school. If payment has been made in excess of the family obligation, a refund will be granted upon written request to the school. • Student records can only be released when all financial obligations to the school have been met.
If written notice of withdrawal is received by the school prior to July 1, the entire portion of the tuition due will be waived, and if paid, will be refunded upon written request to the school. If written notice of withdrawal is received by the school from July 1 through August 31, 90% of the tuition will be forgiven, and if paid, will be refunded upon written request to the school. If a family chooses to withdraw their child(ren) from the school after August 31, refunds will be granted upon written request to the school. No refund will be made for any month in which the child(ren) attended one or more days of school in that month.
DELINQUENCIES
Failure to keep current with your tuition obligation jeopardizes your children(ren)’s placement in school. If tuition and fees cannot be paid on time, families must communicate with school administration in writing to prevent enforcement of delinquent tuition procedures.
• Families whose tuition payment is delinquent (late) will receive a letter from Smart Tuition immediately following the due date.
• Families whose tuition payment is delinquent 60 days may will receive a second letter; this letter will come from their principal. If a parent/guardian does not contact the principal within two weeks of receiving this letter, the child/child(ren) may not be permitted to attend classes. Page 54 of 112
• Failure to address the delinquent tuition payment/s as agreed with the principal may result in the child(ren)’s suspension.
• Records and report cards cannot be transmitted for students with delinquent tuition payments and financial aid/scholarships provided will be at risk and may be rescinded.
• Students with delinquent tuition payments may not participate in school activities and graduation ceremonies.
• Three or more failed payments within a month will result in a change of payment terms.
FEES
• Families are charged an annual $40 Smart Tuition administrative fee upon activation of their account.
• Accounts with late payments will be assessed a late fee of $40 for each late payment.
• Checks and electronic payments that fail (i.e. do not clear the bank) will result in a $30 fee per occurrence.
• Families may be charged for other fees in addition to tuition (i.e. after school programs, meal programs, graduation, technology or other general fees). These fees are not refundable.
• Fees are not refundable. This includes the Registration Fee paid through TADS.
• Families with accounts requiring collection action will be responsible for paying all associated collection fees, attorney’s fees and costs.
1. TUITION Schedule: Grades Pre-K – 8 The school’s expectation at the time of registration is that all tuition and fees will be paid on time. Failure to do so could result in the suspension of a child for delinquent tuition or fees.
Tuition should be paid monthly directly to Smart Tuition on the designated day it is due. Tuition is an annual fee paid in 10 monthly installments. If a family chooses to withdraw their child(ren) from the school, partial or full month tuition refunds will not be granted if the child(ren) attended one or more days that month. Page 55 of 112
TUITION IS DUE the 15th OF EACH MONTH. Payments are made through Smart Tuition. Parents can contact Smart at: www.parents.smarttuition.com or [email protected] or 888-868-8828 Accounts can be handled in a number of methods; on line, monthly invoices, phone, internet, automatic debit from credit card, checking account or savings account.
Tuition is an annual fee paid in 10 monthly installments beginning in July and ending in April. If a child is withdrawn from school at any time during the year tuition will be adjusted. In order to receive a refund of tuition withdrawal must be done before the 1st of the month. Parents will be responsible for a full month’s tuition if withdrawal takes place after the 1st of the month.
Payments will not be accepted at school. All payments must be made through Smart Tuition.
Families who are delinquent will receive a letter from Smart Tuition immediately following the due date and a late fee will be assessed. Late fees will continue to compound for each month tuition is late. Families who are delinquent 60 days on tuition will receive a second letter; this letter will come from their principal. If a parent/guardian does not contact the principal within two weeks of receiving the letter, the child/children may not be permitted to attend school. Records and report cards may be withheld at this time and financial aid/scholarships provided will be at risk and may be rescinded.
1. FEES
All fees should be paid on time. As with tuition, if there are outstanding fees at the time of report card distribution, the report card may be withheld until fees are paid in full.
The school’s expectation at the time of registration is that all tuition and fees will be paid on time. Failure to do so serves to rupture the contract that the school makes with the Parent/Guardian and this could result in the suspension of a child for delinquent tuition or fees and/or non-reregistration for the following school year.
Payments will not be accepted at school. All payments must be made through Smart Tuition.
Families will be billed for; General Fee, Before and After Care Program, miscellaneous fees.
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Delinquent Tuition and School Fees
Tuition payments are due in accordance with the SMART Tuition Agreement - a late fee of $40.00 will be billed by SMART Tuition for payments not made on time.
A failed payment due to insufficient funds, SMART Tuition will assess a fee in addition to the late fee and the payment.
Families with past due tuition will be contacted by SMART Tuition for payment. Immediate payment is required for the child to remain in school.
Families with delinquent tuition of 30 to 60 days will receive a letter from the school requesting a payment plan schedule for the delinquent tuition. The payment plan arrangements must be in writing and signed by the family. Without this signed agreement all regular payment terms remain in force.
Immediate payment is required for the child to remain in school. Families that fail to make a payment plan or fail to make payments under the payment plan should expect that the student will be suspended while the delinquent balance remains.
Students of families with delinquent tuition on September 1, may not be permitted to attend class on the first day of school.
Delinquent tuition payments must be paid to SMART Tuition.
There will be no admittance to mid-year or year-end assessments if there is an outstanding tuition and/or fee balance.
Each parent understands and specifically agrees that School documentation (i.e. report cards, transcripts, diploma, etc.) will not be issued until all tuition and fees have been paid and payments have cleared SMART Tuition. A payment can take up to 10 days to clear SMART Tuition.
Graduation candidates will not be permitted to attend or participate in graduation traditions (e.g. graduation ceremonies) if an outstanding balance remains on a family's account. Should a family leave the school with an outstanding balance, the balance will be turned over to for collection.
Late Registrants
All tuition and fees will be prorated at the time of registration.
Students Leaving During the School Year
A full month’s tuition will be required for a student enrolled in school during any part of the month. Tuition is not prorated on a daily basis.
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Previous Year’s Delinquent Tuition/Fees
Families with delinquent tuition or fees from a previous year will not be allowed to re-enter the school in September. Families with delinquent or past due tuition in the current year will not be permitted to re-register for the next school year until the account is current.
The school reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.
2. FEES
All fees should be paid on time. If there are outstanding fees at the time of report card distribution, the report card will be withheld until fees are paid. Problems or difficulties involving finances must be taken up with the Principal.
Your participation in ongoing religious, educational, and voluntary programs of our school is vital to our school and to our children. We thank you for your cooperation and support you give to Immaculate Conception School.
3. FUND RAISING ACTIVITIES
Our Home School Association organizes a variety of initiatives to raise funds for our school. Families are expected to participate as follows. Mandatory fundraiser: Each family will receive a raffle ticket booklet at a total cost of $350.00 per family in grades PreK 3 – 8th The cost of these raffle tickets has been added to Smart Tuition accounts and will be spread out of the course of the 10 month plan from July - April. All prizewinners will be selected at a school event held after January 2020. We will continue to offer a variety of fun events and the optional sale of our more popular items only as a service to our school families. For these, there is no obligation to participate. Volunteers are always welcome for these events. Our annual Carnival is held after Memorial Day Weekend. This is our major fundraiser and all families are required to volunteer some time during this weekend. Families may be charged an additional fee if they do not volunteer for this event. More information and sign up sheets will become available closer to the event.
Fire & Emergency Drills
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Fire & emergency drills at regular intervals are required by the law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the fire signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. Students are not permitted to talk during a fire drill and are to remain outside the building until a signal is given to return inside. Teachers will direct the students. Other emergency drills, such as lock down, lock out, etc. are practiced regularly at ICS. A separate guide will be sent home to families. For other emergency drills (e.g. lockdown drills), students are expected to remain quiet and follow teacher directions.
Guidance Although we do not have a guidance counselor on site at ICS a guidance program through the Archdiocese of NY is available to Immaculate Conception School students. Service may include counseling, psychological intervention and support for families experiencing change.
Guidelines for the Education of Non-Catholics Parent/Guardians must be made aware of the intentional Catholic witness in our schools. Immaculate Conception School as a Catholic school within the Archdiocese of New York has as its primary mission the formation of children in the Catholic faith.
All children will participate in the total academic life of our school, including religious education. According to the norms of our Church, it is expected that non-Catholics participate as fully as they can in the liturgical and prayer life of the school. All students will attend Liturgy and other services in our Church. Non- Catholic students will not be excused from attendance and participation nor should they remain at home on any day a liturgy or service is scheduled.
The religious educators of our schools are committed to teaching the fullness of revelation as it is taught by the Roman Catholic Church and as the life and doctrine are set forth in the Religious Education Guidelines of the Archdiocese of New York. While our teachers value ecumenical education, and respect the traditions of other ecclesiastical communities, they always teach within the context of fidelity to the doctrine and traditions of our teaching church.
Harassment/Bullying Policies
All persons have a right to be treated with dignity and in a Catholic school environment all demeaning behavior is unacceptable. Students, parents or guardians who become aware of acts of bullying or harassment involving any student must report these incidents to the principal.
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The school provides a safe environment for all and participates in the ADAPP antibullying curriculum annually. Verbal, internet, telephone, or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken seriously. Students making such threats, even in jest, face appropriate disciplinary action including detention, suspension, or expulsion. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment and bullying. Students determined to have been involved in harassing and/or bullying behavior are subject to detention, suspension, or expulsion and, where appropriate, will be referred for counseling services and/or reported to the local authorities.
Harassment, intimidation or bullying includes, but is not limited to, written, verbal, or physical acts, which physically harm a student or damages the student’s property or has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education or is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment or has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, drawings, pranks, gestures, exclusion or other forms of relational aggression, or physical attacks, actions or threats. Actions may take any form including written, oral, physical or electronic.
These behaviors, which are contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church, are prohibited in all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York and will not be tolerated regardless of time or place.
No student shall be subjected to bullying and harassment on the basis of actual or perceived traits or characteristics i.e., age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, gender, physical attributes, physical or mental ability, ancestry, political beliefs, socioeconomic status, or familial status.
HIV/AIDS Curriculum The Archdiocese of New York and the NYS Education Department mandate that all schools are to give age-appropriate instruction on HIV and AIDS to all students in Grades K –12. The Archdiocesan schools use an HIV/AIDS Handbook developed and approved by the Catholic Bishops of the State of New York.
Schools under the authority of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York do not discriminate on the basis of HIV or AIDS. Students with HIV or AIDS shall not be excluded from school by reason of infection with HIV unless the following conditions are evident as determined by the student’s physician and Parents/Guardians (or legal guardian), together with the school
The student is not toilet-trained or is incontinent, or unable to control drooling.
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The student is physically aggressive, with a documented history of biting or harming others.
Illness (see Medication)
Please note: Because we have found that many parents have not been mindful of some protocol these sections have been printed in red.
Children with a fever that is being controlled by medication may not attend school. Children who leave school before dismissal because they were not feeling well may not return after dismissal for any after school function, such as After Care, clubs, games, practices, performances, etc.
Health Office Information and Protocol Please be aware of how your child is feeling before coming to school in the morning. Children who are ill cannot attend school. If during the course of the day, our school Nurse determines that a child is too ill to be in school, parents must comply with this professional judgment and make arrangements to have the child taken home. Parents should keep children home when they exhibit one or more of the following: a persistent moist cough discolored nasal discharge episodes of vomiting or diarrhea within 24 hours pink eye – Students must remain at home while contagious and until the doctor has cleared them to return. Students may not attend class, practices, games, performances, clubs, or any other school function during the time they are contagious even if this is a weekend. strep throat – Students must remain at home while a throat culture is pending. Students may not attend class, practices, games, performances, clubs, or any other school function during the time they are contagious even if this is a weekend. flu contagious skin rash o impetigo o ringworm lice bedbugs chickenpox
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mononucleosis
Students may not attend class, practices, games, performances, clubs, or any other school function during the time they are contagious even if this event will take place on a weekend or a day that school is closed.
The school nurse must be notified for all of the following conditions: Injuries that require Casts, Crutches, Splints, Arm Slings, Fever Pink Eye Strep Throat Flu Contagious Skin Condition Lice Bedbugs Stitches Surgery
Please call the nurse to arrange for an appointment for clearance to return to school.
Injuries that require Casts, Crutches, Splints, Arm Slings Because of safety and mobility issues within our building and our large campus: o Students on crutches may not attend school without written documentation from a doctor stating that crutches are necessary. o Even with such documentation our school nurse must approve attendance. o Any student with any of the above mentioned conditions must be seen and cleared by the school nurse before attending school. o Please do not bring your child to school and leave him/her in the front hall, cafeteria or on line until your child has been seen and cleared by our school nurse. A doctor’s note stating that a child may return to school is not sufficient. Page 62 of 112
Fever o Your child must be fever free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school. Children with a fever that is being controlled by medication may not attend school.
Pink Eye o Children diagnosed (by a physician) with contagious conjunctivitis must be kept home until there is no discharge from the eye. The school must receive a note from your physician advising the date of return to school.
Strep Throat o School policy requires 48 hours of antibiotic treatment before returning to school.
Flu o Parents should be aware of the following symptoms of flu: . Body aches . Fever . Chills . Sore throat . Cough . Fatigue . Stomach ache . Nasal congestion
Persistence of these symptoms could indicate the presence of flu. Contact your physician for a diagnosis and advice. A diagnosis of flu requires that the child remains at home until he/she is fever free without medication for at least 24 hours and is generally feeling well enough to attend school.
Contagious skin condition o The school nurse will advise on a case by case basis.
Lice o Parent must follow treatment plan set up by physician. Students must be seen and cleared by the school nurse before returning to class. Please call the nurse to arrange for appointment for clearance.
Bedbugs o Please call the nurse for directives. Stitches Page 63 of 112
o The school nurse will advise on a case by case basis.
In general, if your child is “just not right” evaluate the situation and make the decision that will benefit your child as well as his/her classmates. Please remember that a child who is sent to school must be prepared to fully participate in activities, this includes outside lunch recess. Staffing restrictions prohibit us from keeping children indoors at recess. For record keeping purposes all absence must be reported to the Main Office by 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Upon your child’s return to school please use the official absence note provided with this handbook. A parent’s signature must be included on the note. Faxes, emails, etc. are not acceptable. After reporting absence to the Main Office, if you suspect your child has an illness that is contagious please ask to be transferred to the Nurse’s Office. She will review proper protocol for your child’s return to school. A doctor’s note is required for any absence of 3 our more days.
Feel free to call the nurse for her professional advice for any health concern. Our nurse can also be reached at [email protected] Allergy Alert Each school year parents are required to submit a diagnosis, documentation and treatment plan from the doctor regarding your child’s food allergies. Immaculate Conception School will take reasonable precautions to insure children with allergies are not exposed to allergens however Immaculate Conception School cannot guarantee the absence of any allergen. Parents Please Note: Before sending any treat or snack to the classroom, please check with the teacher, nurse and class parent. We will be able to determine if this is a “safe snack” for the classroom. We encourage parents to read labels on all products before sending them to school. Most products have an “allergy warning” or an “allergy statement” located where the ingredients are listed. In addition to reading all labels, please teach your children good hand washing techniques to keep the classroom as safe as possible. Children in all grades are instructed not to share any food items brought from home or purchased in the lunchroom.
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Sunscreen is not permitted in school. An exception may be made on a day we expect children to spend extra time outdoors such as Spirit Days or Field Days. Students must be able to apply sunscreen unassisted by an adult. Aerosol or spray sunscreens are not permitted. Students will not be permitted to share sunscreen with other students.
After regular school hours our school nurse is not on site nor do we have any Immaculate Conception School staff members in the building who will administer medication, Benadryl or Epi-Pen shots during our after school programs, clubs, practices, games, etc. should a child require such a treatment. Should you allow your child to attend any after school activity, it would be at your own risk. Emergency personnel (911) will be called if the program staff deem this action to be necessary.
Our school nurse does not work with the after school programs regarding food/snacks/allergies. Students who participate in these programs and have food allergies will be expected to provide their own food/snacks (if applicable) and must be instructed not to eat any other food available from other children or staff.
Due to safety and allergy concerns, dogs and other pets are not permitted on the property. Should you arrive at school with your pet, please be sure that the pet remains in the car. Although a family pet may be quite docile in their home environment, when surrounded by the noise and activity of entrance and dismissal, they may become reactive when approached by children and adults who are unfamiliar to them. Some children and adults may also have a fear of animals, especially dogs. We must ensure our campus is a safe and comfortable environment for all.
Hand Washing Studies show that proper Hand Hygiene reduces the spread of bacteria. Please review with your children proper hand washing techniques: lather hands with soap and water vigorously rub for 10-15 seconds making sure to wash under fingernails rinse thoroughly dry hands completely after drying hands, use the paper towel to turn off the faucet discard paper towel Wash hands several times during the day with plain soap and water or anti- microbial soap and water o before and after eating o using the restroom o after blowing nose o after touching soiled or contaminated objects Page 65 of 112
Here at Immaculate Conception School, we will continue our on-going efforts to ensure that children wash their hands throughout the day. We have also instructed our custodial staff to continue to use disinfectant cleaning products on all surfaces.
Toileting Issues Toilet training is a requirement for entrance and continued attendance into our Early Childhood programs. Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students are required to have a change of clothing in the classroom. In the event of a ‘bathroom accident’ the school nurse will evaluate the situation and notify the parent. Parents may be required to come to school to assist with this issue. Chronic issues will be addressed by the nurse and administration. In consultation with the school Nurse, Administration may require either withdrawal from the program or that a child remains at home for a specified amount of time until potty training is accomplished. During this absence, in order to hold a child’s place in the program, tuition must continue to be paid.
If a child has a chronic illness such as asthma or a condition that warrants frequent use of the bathroom, it is the Parent’s/Guardian’s responsibility to notify the school, school nurse and classroom teachers and to provide necessary documentation and medication each September. The school reserves the right to call 911 in any case of a medical emergency.
Toilet training is a requirement for entrance into and continued attendance in our Early Childhood programs. Students may not wear diapers or pull-ups.
In order to be considered fully toilet trained children must be able to: Recognize when they must use the bathroom and inform an adult in the classroom Use the toilet without assistance Perform all steps necessary to complete the toileting process: o Removal of clothing o Cleansing after toileting o Replacement of clothing o Washing hands o The school understands that young children can have an occasional accident. PreK and Kindergarten children will be asked to supply a change of clothing for such an accident. This would include socks and footwear. Should the accidents become too frequent, the school can require the child to remain at home until potty training is accomplished. In order to reserve placement in our school tuition must be continued to be paid during this absence.
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Immunizations See current requirements in the Appendix at the end of the handbook
Lateness
Student lateness interrupts the learning process for your child and all other children in that classroom. Any student arriving at school after the published opening time (8:10) is considered late. If late, the student may be admitted to class only with a late pass, obtainable in the main office. Repeated lateness affects your child’s ability to be on the honor roll, may lead to disciplinary action and could impede your child’s re- registration for the coming year. Students who are late may be required to serve detention or make up time missed.
An accumulation of 6 times late during a quarter will result in the student’s conduct grade dropping a full grade on the Report Card. For example: If a student earns the Conduct Grade of ‘B’ for the 1st Quarter, but the student has been late 6 times, the Conduct Grade will become ‘C’. This change in the Conduct Grade will prevent a student from receiving honors.
Liturgy/Religious Education
All Catholic elementary schools will follow and adhere to current Archdiocesan policies and curriculum guidelines in religion.
Students in grades 3 through 8 are required to take a Mid-Term Religion Examination and the annual Archdiocesan Religion Examination.
Non-Catholic students are expected to participate in the religious formation and education programs of the school, including, but not limited to, liturgies, religious functions, and religion classes for credit.
Parents of non-Catholic students must be willing to accept the standards, values, and regulations of the school. They must understand the religious education program of the school at the time of enrollment.
All students in Pre K to 8 will attend a monthly school Mass and at other times as indicated in the school calendar. Respectful participation of every child is required at school liturgies and all other religious services.
Lunchroom
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Immaculate Conception School has contracted with “Happy Kids Lunch” to provide lunch service for students in grades Prek-8. This is a cashless program. Parents must sign up for a plan or set up a ‘pay down account’.
To purchase a plan, set up a pay down account or for menu info, etc.: Please visit: www.happykidlunch.com. Select: ‘Your School’ Select: Immaculate Conception Password: tuckahoe Ordering and billing will be managed by ‘Happy Kids Lunch”
Students who have not ordered from ‘Happy Kids Lunch’ must provide their own lunch, drink and snack. Students who bring their lunch may purchase snacks or drink through a pre-arranged ‘pay down account’ with ‘Happy Kids Lunch’.
Please use lunch.ics@gmail should you need to address any lunch issues.
Each class is assigned an area in the lunchroom. Each child is assigned a seat in the designated area and is expected to remain seated throughout the lunch period until given permission to dispose of their trash and recycle. It is the responsibility of the individual child to keep his/her area clean. Respect and obedience are to be shown at all times to those who work in the lunchroom. In good weather, the children go directly from the lunchroom to the play area. In the event of inclement weather classes will either return to homerooms, go to the gym or will remain in the cafeteria. Because of food allergy concerns, Cupcakes, brownies, candy, etc. for any occasion may not be sent in to be distributed in the cafeteria for any grade. All goodies for celebrations will be managed by our School Nurse
Maternity/Paternity Policies
As members of the Church committed to the preservation of life at all levels, the Catholic school must act in ways consistent with that commitment. Catholic schools - elementary as well as secondary - are faced sometimes with the situations of unwed mothers and fathers. School officials will consider carefully the consequences of any policies that are adopted. At the very minimum, students will be encouraged to finish their work and to receive grades and diplomas. The decision concerning a student’s continued school attendance is made by the principal after consultation with his/her
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parents or guardians, and in consideration of the best interest of the student, the unborn child, and the school’s educational expectations.
Student Abortion Policies
Rationale: The Catholic Church teaches definitively and without question that life begins at conception. Pope John Paul declared that the Church’s teaching on abortion is “unchanged and unchangeable… since it is the deliberate killing of an innocent human being.”
Policies: 1. If a student decides to obtain an abortion, and if a school learns of it after the fact, she will be allowed to return to school only if she accepts counseling from a counseling program approved by the Office of the Superintendent of Schools. 2. If a student refuses counseling, she will not be allowed to continue as a student at the school. 3. The counseling requirements stated in Policies 1 and 2 also apply to the student who is considered the paternal father.
Guideline: 1. In the event a student decides to obtain an abortion despite being counseled by the school beforehand, the continued status of the student’s enrollment in the school will be determined by the school administration. Factors such as the parents’ role in the decision to abort should be taken into consideration.
Medications (see also Illness)
If a student needs any kind of medication during the school day, the medication is to be brought to the school nurse (or school office in the absence of a nurse) and to be kept there. A written statement from the Parent/Guardian requesting administration of the medication in school as ordered by the licensed prescriber is required.
Medication must be presented in a properly labeled container. Prescription medication must be in the original container. On the prescription medication the pharmacy label should display:
student name name and phone number of the pharmacy licensed prescriber name date and number of refills name of the medication and dosage frequency of administration Page 69 of 112
Medication should not be transported daily to and from school. Parents/Guardians should be advised to ask the pharmacist for two containers – one for home and one for school.
The school may receive a written request from a Parent/Guardian or physician to permit a student to carry and self administer his or her own medication. Under certain circumstances it may be necessary to do so. Such a decision will be made on a case- by-case basis in consultation with the school nurse and will reflect the age and maturity of the child as well as.
severity of health care problem, particularly asthmatic or allergic conditions prescriber order directing the student be allowed to carry his/her medication written statement from Parent/Guardian requesting compliance with prescriber order student has been instructed in the procedure for self administration and can assume this responsibility Parent/Guardian contact is made to clarify Parent’s/Guardian’s responsibility in monitoring the child on an ongoing basis to ensure the child is carrying and taking the medication as ordered.
Money
Money that is brought to school for a specific purpose (class trip, book fair, etc.) must be put into an envelope with the child’s name and grade and amount. Since snacks are sold on a daily basis students may choose to bring in small amounts of money (less than $5) for such purchases. If a student does bring money to school the money should be kept on the student’s person and not left in the school bag, coat pocket, lunch box, or desk. The school cannot be responsible for lost money.
Collections
Collection of money for any purpose must be authorized by Administration. Teachers collect money for class trips, dress down days, supplies, charitable causes approved by administration, etc. The Home School Association collects money for fundraising and activities, etc. Class Parents may also be authorized to collect for specific reasons. No other parent/guardian may approach the class to request money for a specific activity or cause. Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the office if they are asked to donate/contribute to an unauthorized collection.
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collected will be evenly distributed to teachers and staff. Families are free to, but not expected to, send an individual gift to their child’s teacher either at Christmas or the end of the year. Gifts that can be utilized for the classroom are preferred.
Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian
Release of Copies of report cards, school notices, etc.
In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide a non-custodial Parent/Guardian with access to academic records and other school information regarding their child. If there is a court order specifying that this should not happen, it is the custodial Parent’s/Guardian’s responsibility to provide the school with a copy of the court order.
Non-custodial Parent/Guardians are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such Parents/Guardians should supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.
Release of children Non-custodial Parent/Guardians may pick up a child only if previous arrangements have been made and the teacher and office have received written notification.
It is the responsibility of both Custodial and Non- Custodial parents to provide the school will copies of custody and / or visitation papers.
It is the responsibility of the Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian to inform the teacher and the office of their request for information.
It is the responsibility of the Non-Custodial Parent/Guardian to inform the teacher and the office of current email addresses.
Parents/Guardians as Partners
Just as the Parents/Guardians look to the school to provide the facilities and the trained personnel that are essential to their child’s proper development, so the school looks to the Parents/Guardians to assume active responsibilities that cannot be delegated to others.
No school can be wholly effective in teaching the values of religion and the virtues of honesty, respect for authority, consideration for the rights and property of others, and standards of personal morality and integrity unless these principles have been established, upheld, and valued in the home. If Parents/Guardians cooperate with the Page 71 of 112
school, instill respect for the integrity of its teachers and administration, and actively support their authority in the home, this is likely to be reflected in the positive attitudes of their children. Parents are invited and encouraged to participate in the spiritual and academic programs developed for the education of their children. The wide spectrum of this involvement includes participation in school celebrations of prayer and liturgy, volunteer work, participation in parent-teacher conferences, attendance at meetings and seminars designed to help parents assist their children at home, and active involvement in the school’s parent/teacher organization
Parents/Guardians are asked to take an active role in their child’s education by:
assisting their child in his/her academic and moral development by carefully reviewing class work, test results, progress reports, and report cards; supervising home study; and reinforcing school policies. Parents/Guardians should utilize the Student Information System and School Notes for up-to-date information.
explaining and reviewing periodically the school behavior code with their child. Parents/Guardians should discuss school disciplinary episodes in relation to the school behavior code.
recognizing their child’s talents and interests so they may be developed in cooperation with the classroom teachers.
seeing that the dress code, including gym uniform, is enforced, and insisting that children dress according to Christian virtue.
insisting on their child’s regular school attendance and punctuality and on complying with attendance rules and procedures.
making all tuition and fee payments on time, and participating in fund- raising activities.
providing proper supervision at home, and not tolerating harassment, inappropriate or violent behavior, or viewing of such in videos, movies, song lyrics, and on the Internet.
teaching their child respect for law, for authority, for the rights of others, and for public and private property. This includes showing respect for the work of others by not tolerating cheating in any circumstance. arranging for a time and place for their child to complete homework assignments.
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working with the school in a cooperative effort to carry out recommendations made in the best interest of their child, including those related to educational evaluations and counseling.
attending all Parent/Guardian-Teacher Conferences and Home-School Association meetings.
by responding to a teacher’s request for communication between conferences.
by initiating contact with teachers when a review of their child’s performance would indicate the need for a conference.
by always interacting in a respectful manner when speaking with or about the administration, teachers and staff of the school. Verbal abuse or physical harassment or inappropriate use of social media may result in your child being required to withdraw from the school immediately or not being allowed to re- register for the following year.
The education of a student is a partnership between the Parent/Guardians and the school. Just as the Parent/Guardian has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irreparably broken.
Parent/Guardian Organizations
A Home-School Organization named the Immaculate Conception School and Family Association, ICSFA, sometimes referred to as Home School Association, HSA, provides an effective channel of communication between Parents/Guardians and teachers for the benefit of the students and the whole community. Its main purposes are:
to create mutual support and understanding between home and school, and thus bring about a total learning environment for students
to provide a means for keeping Parents/Guardians informed of school activities, programs, etc., and if any, Parent/Guardian service requirement
to assist the school in meeting its financial obligations, primarily through fund-raising activities
to provide adult education programs
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Philosophy and Goals
Immaculate Conception School endorses the call of the Catholic Bishops of the United States to express its educational ministry through the three objectives of personal spirituality, social justice, and a strong academic program in accord with Christian values. This commitment extends to building Christian community and to fostering Christian service to the whole human family.
The Immaculate Conception School is a Catholic elementary school providing a strong faith-based foundation and academic excellence for its students, from Pre- K3 through 8th grade. ICS believes in the spiritual and personal development of the whole child through education and Christian guidance.
The ICS faculty and staff, with support from the Archdiocese of New York and the Parish of the Immaculate Conception and The Assumption of Our Lady Parish along with all other parishes where our families attend Mass are committed to instilling Christian values and compassion for the human spirit in every student.
ICS is a faith-filled community of families, teachers and friends working together to make the surrounding areas of Central Westchester, and the world as a whole, a better place through its service of education.
As you enter the front door you will be greeted with the following quote, “Be it known to all who enter here that Christ is the reason for this school. He is the unseen but ever present teacher in its classes. He is the model of its faculty and the inspiration of its students.”
Pick Up of Students at the Conclusion of the School Day
Parents/Guardians are reminded that a routine should be in place for pick up at the end of the day. Parents are reminded to follow all traffic rules in the parking lot. Please drive slowly. Cones and barriers are in place to insure the safe movement of children Cars should never drive through the Oval to the main door. Cars should only be parked in legal parking spaces, not on the grass or blocking lanes of traffic. Once entering the upper lot cars must exit through the upper lot, down the driveway and turn left onto Dempsey Place. Punctuality is most important. Consistency is also important. Children should know whether they will be picked up at the end of the day or whether they will report to the After Care Program.
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Only authorized individuals listed on the contact sheets on file in the office will be permitted to pick up any child. Parents are reminded to keep these files current, making changes as necessary. It is disruptive to class routines and instruction to interrupt class with announcements regarding a change of plans. Please avoid making changes as much as possible. A teacher’s main function during the day is of course to teach. After an initial check of email in the morning while entering attendance, teachers may not have another opportunity to view messages until after dismissal, therefore in the event of an unavoidable change of plans, parents should communicate this information by phone to the Main Office. Parents and others are also reminded that although their intentions might be good, unless they are listed on the contact form they should not attempt to pick up a child for a friend who might be running late. Students in grades Pre-K - 5th Grade will not be released unless an authorized person arrives to pick them up. Students in 6th – 8th Grade are released by their teachers and are expected to locate the person who has arrived to pick them up. If a parent wishes to authorize their older child to walk home or take public transportation this permission must be indicated on the contact form on file at the Main Office. Students traveling home unescorted must leave the school grounds by 3:10 p.m. (or th th th ten minutes after any other dismissal time). In order for a 6 , 7 , or 8 grade student to leave the grounds unescorted in order to walk home or travel home by public transportation, the office must have on file a previously submitted letter signed by a parent/guardian that grants permission for this independent travel. All other students grades PreK – 5th must be picked up by and authorized adult. Any student not picked up by 3:10 p.m. will be sent/escorted to the After Care Program. Fees will charged Parents and others are also expected to be punctual when picking up children at the conclusion of clubs, practices, after school classes, or trips that may extend past the normal school day.
Promotion/Retention Policy
Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student. Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives. If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade.
Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, sometimes indicate that some students would benefit from the repetition of the school year. Therefore, the decision to retain a student presupposes that although the school has done everything to help the
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student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress. The decision of the principal is final regarding promotion and retention.
Re-registration Attendance at Immaculate Conception School is by invitation. At the time of re- registration Parents/Guardians will be notified if their child is being invited to return to the school in September or if the child is not being invited back. If the re-registration fee is not completed /paid by the date outlined by the school, we cannot guarantee a seat for your child in the upcoming school year.
Release of Students (during school day)
Release of students during the school day is strongly discouraged. Appointments should be made around the school schedule, not while school is in session. If this cannot be arranged:
-Parents/Guardians must submit a written request to the office before the start of the school day or earlier if possible.
-All requests must be approved by administration.
-A parent/guardian or approved adult must come to the office allowing ample time for staff to send for the student.
-A parent/guardian or approved adult must sign out the child.
-If the child is returning before the end of the day a parent/guardian or approved adult must escort the child to the main office and sign him/her in.
Requests for early release cannot be honored after 2:40 p.m. Prayer, Announcement and Dismissal routines cannot be compromised.
The school has a sign-out book located in the main office. Occasions for the use of a sign-out book are:
in the event of a student illness the parent /guardian or an approved adult designated by the parent must come to the school and take the child. It is against the law to dismiss a child during school hours except into the direct custody of a parent, guardian, or an adult designated by the parent. If the parent cannot be contacted, the secretary will contact the name listed on the child’s emergency contact slip. Emergency slips are completed in September and must be updated as necessary. Page 76 of 112
for liturgies and services when altar servers leave the school, the students will sign out and in.
when a student is released to a parent or guardian or approved adult, that adult must sign the book.
for a prearranged appointment when the student is released, the parent, guardian, or approved adult must sign the book. [Please note: only the principal may approve the release of a student for a prearranged appointment.]
an approved adult must be at least 18 years of age and must be listed on the emergency contact sheet submitted to the main office.
School Calendar
A yearly calendar is available on our website www.icschoolonline.org, Google Calendar and Bloomz.
Please check regularly for revisions.
The dates for Sacramental Preparation Programs for Parents/Guardians (First Penance, First Holy Communion and Confirmation) are announced when the Director of Religious Education and the Pastor communicate this information to the Principal.
Standardized interim testing, Mid-Year, End-Year Examination, ITBS and NYS Assessment schedules will be sent to Parents/Guardians as dates are finalized.
School Publications
All student or parental publications are subject to review and approved by the school administration prior to publication. The principal must have on file all current log-in information for any digital publication, email or social media accounts that represent or use the school name. Parents, volunteers and external consultants must submit any and all postings for approval in advance. Maintaining a positive public image for the school is the responsibility of the principal and Superintendent’s staff.
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School’s Right to Amend
Immaculate Conception School reserves the right to amend this handbook without prior notice. Notice of amendments will be sent as necessary.
Security
To assure the security of the building and the safety of each child, Immaculate Conception School strongly enforces its policy of requiring all visitors, even Parents/Guardians, to report to the office.
To avoid interruption of the learning process, no one may enter a classroom without permission of the principal.
Sex Offender Policy
This notice is to remind you of the importance of taking steps to keep your child safe when he or she is involved in outdoor activities, including traveling to and from school. The following are some safety tips that we hope you will share with your children: -Students should never go home with strangers. -Students should never talk to strangers. -Students should never take things from strangers. -If students are approached by strangers and are still near the school, they should be encouraged to return to the school and immediately inform a staff member. -Young students should be escorted to and from school. -Older children should be encouraged to walk/travel to school in groups whenever possible.
The teachers at our school will also remind students of the importance of not responding to strangers and actions each child should take if approached by a stranger, including reporting it to responsible adults. In addition, over the course of the school year, we may receive from the local police Departments notification under the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act that a registered sex offender has moved into the region where our school is located. Copies of all the notifications we receive will be kept accessible to Parent/Guardians in the principal’s office. You can also find information about registered sex offenders on the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services website, located at http://www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us -- or by calling 1-800-262-3257.
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Finally, if our school is notified during the school year that a registered sex offender has moved within the vicinity of our school, further notice will be sent to you.
These procedures are part of our continuing effort to provide a safe environment for all children in this school.
Smoking
New York State Law prohibits smoking in a school building and on school property. Smoking is prohibited at all times in the school building, on its parking lot and playing fields. This prohibition applies to faculty, staff, parents, and all visitors to the school. Smoking on the sidewalk in front of the school building is not allowed. This policy includes cigarettes, cigars, pipe or any other matter or substance containing tobacco, as well as the use of electronic cigarettes (e cigarettes), personal vaporizers, vape pens, e-cigars, e-hookah, vaping devices, mod systems, or pod systems or any similar system.
Special Learning Needs
Students with learning differences are children of God and members of the Church. Immaculate Conception School makes every effort to meet individual student needs. Sometimes, however, a student may have needs that do not permit him or her to benefit fully from the program. In those cases your child’s teacher and/or principal may schedule a meeting with you to discuss having an evaluation of your child’s learning needs. Such evaluations can be done through the local public school district, i.e., Committees on Special Education (CSE’s), or privately.
Once the results of the evaluation are available, parents/guardians are obligated to share educational/psychological testing results and any resulting plan with the school. The parent/guardian must make an appointment to meet with the principal to discuss the results of the evaluation and the recommendations, and provide a copy of the Individualized Education Services Plan (IESP). If a student transfers in from a public school with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), the parent/guardian must go back to the Committee on Special Education (CSE) to get an IESP.
When a student qualifies for a 504 Plan, the principal will meet with the parent/guardian to review and discuss the 504 Plan, and will then notify the parent of any reasonable accommodations/modifications that can or cannot be made at Immaculate Conception School. If reasonable accommodations can be made, a Student Assistance Plan (SAP) will be written and a copy of the plan will be placed in the student’s confidential file. The accommodation/modifications will be reviewed yearly. If the school cannot make Page 79 of 112
reasonable accommodations, the school reserves the right to negate enrollment of the student.
Summer School
Since most summer schools offer reading, mathematics, and language arts, a student who has failed in one or more of these subjects in three marking periods of the report card will be required to take a remedial course during the summer. Summer school also may be recommended due to poor performance on standardized tests or in the classroom. Students who do not perform to expectations in Religious studies will be required to complete specific assignments / service activities to be determined by the Pastor, Principal and teacher.
In May, a list of available summer schools in the archdiocese will be available upon request. Whenever the administration becomes aware of quality programs suited to the specific needs of a child, the principal or the assistant principal will notify the Parent/Guardian directly.
The summer school Report Card must be submitted to the office in September. Failure to attend summer school will result in retention. It is the Parent’s/Guardian’s responsibility to provide documentation that summer school has been successfully completed. In cases in which Administration determines that tutoring is allowed for the remediation, it must be undertaken by a qualified teacher. Documentation of certification must be submitted to Administration before tutoring begins.
Telecommunications Policy
SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES
The principal of the school is responsible for maintaining all administrative logins for all social media outlets, blogs or any school-branded media outlets in existence now or in the future that contain the school name. Principals must be mindful that their school’s social media may be linked to the Superintendent of Schools Office and the Archdiocese of New York media accounts.
All domain names and access must be owned, secured and maintained by the school principal. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES are these administrative logins, permissions or oversight to be delegated to any parent, volunteer or external vendor separate and exclusive from the principal.
In addition to the login and administrative rights to the school website and all current or future social media outlets (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) the Page 80 of 112
principal is also responsible for reviewing and approving the content on such sites.
All social media content must follow the Standards of Behavior for student internet use and must reflect the standards and mission of the school.
Student Expectations in Use of the Internet (please see p. 77-79 for complete policy requiring student’s signature)
Use of School Grounds
Pets are not permitted on school grounds.
Unless students are formally registered for before or after school programs, Immaculate Conception School does not have staff available to supervise students present on the school grounds before 8:00 a.m. and after 3:10 p.m. Students must not arrive on the school grounds prior to 8:00 a.m. and Parent/Guardians must arrange to pick up at dismissal times. Any student who has not been picked up by 3:10 p.m. (or 10 minutes after dismissal on an early dismissal day) will be sent to our After Care Program. Appropriate fees will be charged. Parents are asked to be mindful on days that Before and/or After Care are not available and be sure to make alternate arrangements for drop off or pick-up.
Withdrawals and Transfers
A transfer request must be obtained from the school secretary. All books must be returned. All bills must be paid before records are transferred to another school.
When a student transfers from one school to another, or enters high school, the new school may request a copy of the permanent record and health card from the former school.
Schools may disclose a student’s cumulative record (i.e. permanent record, attendance record, test results) to another school with legitimate educational interest if a written request is made and when a custodial parent/guardian has given written permission for the release of the child’s records. Parent/guardian signature is required for release of a student’s confidential file (i.e. special education records, psychological reports, disciplinary records, anecdotal information, or reports by the school counselor).
At the discretion of the principal, each school has the right not to certify the student's graduation or provide transcripts of the student's academic record to third parties such as other schools, colleges, or employers, or to issue a diploma to the student, if there
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has been a breach of a material condition of the educational contract (i.e., failure to meet financial obligations, infractions against the school’s code of conduct, etc.).
The school reserves the right to request the parent to withdraw his/her child from the school due to serious disciplinary issues.
Summary Statement
Once students have met the necessary admission requirements and have been accepted in Immaculate Conception School, the school warmly welcomes these students for the coming school year and will strive to provide them with a solid Catholic spiritual and academic education in a supportive learning environment. Students and Parents/Guardians must always be mindful that attendance at Immaculate Conception School is by invitation. It is not a “right” because this is a private school. Admission to and continued enrollment in this school include responsibilities regarding conduct, both inside and outside the classroom and school, and students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a credit both to themselves and to their school.
In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline and character, Immaculate Conception School reserves the right, and students and Parents/Guardians concede to the school the right to require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient in the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. By the student’s attendance at the school, a student and his or her Parents/Guardians acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this handbook and agree to be bound by the terms of this handbook.
Students attending Immaculate Conception School relinquish certain rights they might otherwise be entitled to if they were attending a public school. For example, a student’s freedom of speech is limited in many important respects here at our school. Speech, either written or oral, contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, the teachings of the church or the directives of the local Bishop or Ordinary is prohibited, as is any other speech which is contrary or disruptive to the philosophy and purposes of our school.
Another important right all students at Immaculate Conception School surrender involves searches and seizures. School administrators may search a student’s person and belongings if there is a reasonable belief, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances or inappropriate objects are being concealed. Any unauthorized items found may be seized. Additionally, student desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and the student to whom the desk or locker has been assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all. Students should have absolutely no expectation of privacy with regard to any item in their desks or lockers. Page 82 of 112
Another important right that a student and his or her Parents/Guardians give up when they decide to have a student attend this school is the right to sue the school, the parish or the Archdiocese of New York, and/or any individuals acting on behalf of the school, such as the school administrators, teachers, staff or any of their agents for any matter relating to academic or disciplinary decisions or other matters covered within this handbook. Each student and his or her Parents/Guardians, by their acceptance of enrollment at Immaculate Conception School agree to and accept the school’s rule and policy that students, Parent/Guardians may not bring any civil action in any local, state or federal court or in any administrative agency or body to challenge any school decision on academic or disciplinary matters, including any decision relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered within this handbook. Students and Parents/Guardians agree that any challenge to any school academic or disciplinary action or relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered in this handbook may only be challenged or appealed within the hierarchy of the school, subject to the limitations contained in this handbook. This includes any decision relating to a student’s enrollment at the school or termination of that enrollment.
While any student and his or her Parents/Guardians are of course free to consult with legal counsel regarding any school decision taken with respect to a student, the school emphasizes that students and Parents/Guardians are not permitted to have legal counsel present during any meetings with school administrators. School administrators are not obligated to meet with legal counsel at any time.
There are several grounds for disciplinary action or expulsion set forth in the “Discipline Codes” section of this handbook. It should be noted, however, that any listing of prohibited conduct is set forth by way of example only and to provide guidance to the student and his or her Parents/Guardians. It is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of improper conduct or resultant disciplinary action.
See pages following for Appendix and required forms to be signed and submitted
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Telecommunications Policy
Student Expectations in Use of the Internet (please see below for complete policy requiring student’s signature)
The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use or violation of any of the following standards will result in serious consequences and could result in expulsion from the school.
1. Use of the computer at school is limited to school related activities. Internet users are expected to behave responsibly in accessing and viewing information that is pertinent to the mission of the school. 2. Vandalism and other infractions of school policy while using the Internet will result in immediate cancellation of privileges along with disciplinary action. 3. After School/Home Access requires students to follow the same student expectations as stated in the “Discipline Code for Student Conduct”, “Harassment Policies” and the “Summary Statement” in the student handbook. 4. Students must abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include but are not limited to the following: Standards of Behavior
. Be courteous and respectful in your messages to others. . Use appropriate language. Do not use vulgar, harassing, obscene, threatening, abusive, or sexually offensive language, or make any statements that are slanderous or disparaging of any students or adults. . Illegal activities are strictly forbidden. . Do not reveal your home address or phone number, or that of other students or staff. . Note that electronic mail (email) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages related to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. . Proofread your message before you send it. . Never agree to get together with someone you “meet” on-line. . Only public domain software (“shareware”) can be downloaded. . Copyright laws must be respected. Do not make unauthorized copies of software and do not give, lend, or sell copies of software to others. . Software applications, and games from home may not be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate school personnel. . Do not reveal personal passwords or try to learn others’ passwords. Do not copy, change, read or use files from another user without prior permission from that user. Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment.
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. Do not post personal messages on bulletin boards “list servers” or social media platforms. Send personal messages directly to the person to whom you want to write. . Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the use of the network for other users. . Do not waste or take supplies such as paper, printer cartridges, and diskettes that are provided by the school. . Talk softly and work in ways that will not disturb other users. Keep computer work areas clean and do not eat or drink in the computer lab. . If students encounter material on a network/bulletin board that is not appropriate (vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.,) the student is responsible for not pursuing this material and reporting the matter to appropriate school personnel. . The use of cell phones, camera phones or other digital media is prohibited during the school day. Cell phones, camera phones, or other personal electronic devices will be confiscated if students use them during the school day without permission. In addition, any student who uses a camera, camera phone or other personal electronic devices in school or in the classroom for any reason will be suspended. Further disciplinary measures including expulsion will be considered depending on the nature of the camera, camera phone, or personal electronic device use. (The school day shall be defined as “arrival on school grounds, attendance in the Before Care Program, attendance throughout the day in classes and during the lunch and recess periods, attendance at the After Care Program or school clubs, practices, etc.) . Technology Use (including but not limited to cell phones, email, text messages, camera-phones, cameras, personal digital assistants (pda’s), chat lines, bulletin boards, etc., outside normal academic hours and/or off school grounds are subject to the same guidelines as previously cited in the “Discipline Code for Student Conduct”, “Harassment Policies” and the “Summary Statement”. . The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific privileges. Violation of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.
Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.
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Social Media
Parents/Guardians are forewarned of the dangers of the use of social media by children. Parents/Guardians are advised not to set up accounts for their underage children.
Use of social media on school computers or personal devices is prohibited during the school day or during any school sponsored event or program. When misuse of social media, whether on school or personal devices is suspected, Administration reserves the right to view students’ social network accounts. If it is determined that such an account has been used to cause disruption to the educational program, disparage, threaten, or harass schoolmates, staff members, parents or other members of the school community, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. This action may include the requirement of withdrawal from our school and contact with the appropriate law enforcement agencies and application of the consequences determined by the laws of our Community, State or Federal governments.
Parents/Guardians are also cautioned regarding their use of social media especially as it relates to Immaculate Conception School, staff and students.
Student Name: ______Grade _____ Student Signature: ______Date ______
APPENDIX
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The School of The Immaculate Conception
Parent/Guardian Signature Page Return Due Date: September 13, 2019
We have read the Parent Student School Handbook 2019-2020 School Year
______(Parent’s/Guardian’s signature) (Parent’s/Guardian’s signature)
______(Parent’s/Guardian’s name – Please Print) (Parent’s/Guardian’s name – Please Print)
1.)______2.)______(Grade 2 and above Student’s signature) (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)
______(Grade 2 and above Student’s name – Please Print) (Grade 2 and above Student’s name – Please Print)
3.)______4.) ______(Grade 2 and above Student’s signature) (Grade 2 and above Student’s signature)
______(Grade 2 and above Student’s name – Please Print) (Grade 2 and above Student’s name – Please Print)
A-1
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ADNY(rev.7/15/13)
The School of The Immaculate Conception
Parent Signature Page – Return Due Date: September 13, 2019
MEDIA AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE 2019-2020 School Year
This form is not required to be returned if it was completed as part of the online application process.
I hereby consent to the taking of photographs, movies, videos, and images capable of reproduction in any medium of me or my children or children of whom I am the designated guardian
______Names of Children, Parent or Guardian
by the Department of Education, Archdiocese of New York and/or the Catholic School Region and their parents, affiliates, trustees, directors, members, officers, employees, volunteers, agents and contractors (the “School”).
I hereby grant to School the right to edit, reproduce, use and reuse images for any and all purposes including, but not limited to, advertising, promotion and display, and I hereby consent to the editing, reproduction, use and re-use of said images in any and all media in existence and all media yet in existence including, but not limited to, video, print, television, Internet, and Pod-Casts.
I forever grant, assign, and transfer to School any right, title and interest that I and/or my child/children may have in any images, including negatives, taken of me and/or my children by School. I hereby agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless School from any and all claims, demands, actions or causes of actions, loss, liability, damage or cost arising from this authorization.
______Print Name Name of Child/Children [if applicable]
______
______Signature Signature of Parent or Guardian
______Date Page 88 of 112
The School of The Immaculate Conception
Parent Signature Page – Return Due Date: September 13, 2019
Technology Use Agreement 2019-2020 School Year
for
adapted from NCEA’s From the Chalkboard to the Chatroom . . . 1997 User
I understand and will abide by the technology use agreement. I further understand that any violation of these regulations is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action initiated.
User’s name (please print): ______
User Signature: ______Date: ______
Parent/Guardian/
As the Parent/Guardian of this student, I have read the technology use agreement. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. I am aware that it is impossible for the school to restrict access to all controversial materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired in use. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use of school’s technology resources is not in a school setting. I hereby give permission for my child to use the school’s technology resources and certify that I have reviewed this information with my child.
Parent/Guardian’s or guardian’s name (please print): ______
Parent/Guardian/Guardian Signature: ______
Date:______
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The School of The Immaculate Conception
Absent Note – 2019-2020
STUDENT’S NAME ______
STUDENT’S CLASS ______
DATE(S) OF ABSENCE ______
REASON FOR ABSENCE
______
Parent’s/Guardian’s signature Parent’s/Guardian’s name
Doctor’s note is attached. Yes ______No ______
A-4
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The School of The Immaculate Conception
NEW YORK STATE TEXTBOOK LAW (NYSTL), SOFTWARE LAW (NYSSL), LIBRARY LAW (NYSLIB), AND COMPUTER HARDWARE (NYS CH)
PARENTAL REQUEST FORM FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2019-2020
I hereby authorize the school to obtain state-loaned textbooks, software, library materials, and computer hardware for my child______who is in grade ______pursuant to the New York State Textbook, Software, Library, and Computer Hardware Laws.
Signature of Parent or Guardian
Address
Date
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Immunization Documents
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