Catholic Memorial School
2017-2018 Parent/Student Handbook
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Table of Contents
Introduction ...... 6 Shared Responsibility ...... 6 Policy of Non-Discrimination ...... 6 Catholic Memorial School Mission Statement ...... 7 The Catholic Memorial Story ...... 7 The Congregation of Christian Brothers ...... 8 The Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education ...... 8 A CM Knight ...... 10 Governance ...... 11 Trustees ...... 11 Officers of the Corporation ...... 11 Board of Directors ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Administration ...... 12 Department Chairs ...... 12 Faculty ...... 12 Guidance ...... 13 Staff ...... 13 Academic Studies ...... 14 Academic Integrity ...... 14 Academic Requirements/Courses of Study ...... 15 Communication ...... 16 Grading ...... 16 Diploma ...... 17 Valedictorian/Salutatorian ...... 17 Academic Probation ...... 18 Examinations ...... 18 Homework ...... 18 Honor Roll ...... 18 Test Days ...... 18 Transcripts ...... 18 Course Placement/Selection ...... 18 Student Resources ...... 19
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Summer Work ...... 19 Schedules ...... 19 School Life ...... 21 Guidance ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. College Counseling ...... 22 Custody ...... 23 Identification Cards ...... 23 Technology ...... 23 Transfer Students ...... 24 Campus Ministry ...... 24 Medication ...... 25 Visitors ...... 25 School Announcements ...... 25 Books and Lockers ...... 26 Lost Property ...... 26 Facilities ...... 26 Student Life ...... 27 Attendance ...... 27 Dress Code ...... 29 Discipline ...... 31 Disciplinary Probation ...... 33 Disciplinary Board ...... 33 Integrity On and Off Campus ...... 34 Drugs and Alcohol ...... 34 Searches ...... 35 Leaving Campus ...... 35 Gambling ...... 35 Cell Phone ...... 36 Neighborhood ...... 36 Unauthorized use of School Name ...... 36 Unsafe Practices ...... 36 Rules of Safety ...... 36 Athletics ...... 36
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Athletic Philosophy ...... 36 Student-Athlete Goals ...... 36 Coach/Staff Expectations ...... 37 Student-Athlete Expectations ...... 37 Cut Sports ...... 37 Starting Dates ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Pre-Season Responsibilities ...... 37 Tryouts ...... 38 Team Selection ...... 38 School Equipment and Responsibilities ...... 38 Physical Exam ...... 39 Injuries ...... 39 Chemical Health ...... 39 Violation ...... 39 Steroid use ...... 39 Cheering/Fan Behavior at All CM Events ...... 40 Transportation ...... 40 CM Transportation ...... 40 Public Transportation ...... 40 Carpools ...... 40 Automobiles ...... 40 Conduct on MBTA, Public Buses, School Buses, and Other School Vehicles ...... 41 Tuition and Fees ...... 41 Refund Policy ...... 41 Enrollment ...... 41 Appendix ...... 42 Anti-Harassment Policy ...... 42 Bullying and Cyber-Bullying ...... 43 Crisis Intervention ...... 44 Emergency or Evacuation Drill ...... 44 Lockdown Procedure ...... 45 Hazing ...... 45 Policy on AIDS ...... 45
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Social Networking Guidelines for Students in Catholic Schools ...... 46 Environmental Protection Agency Compliance ...... 47
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Introduction The following is a listing of all policies and procedures used to govern all members of the Catholic Memorial School (“CM”) community.
Students, parents, faculty and staff of CM are expected to strive towards meeting high standards of behavior both in and out of school. To this end, the expectation is that all members of the CM community act at all times with personal integrity and mutual respect. Serious violation of either of these principles on or off campus is grounds for discipline up to and including dismissal of the student from Catholic Memorial School.
Note: The Administration may add, delete, or modify any section of this handbook. Changes will be preceded by appropriate notification. The interpretation and application of all school rules are at the sole discretion of CM Administration.
Shared Responsibility CM and parents are partners in the education of your son. As with any partnership, mutual cooperation and shared responsibility are critical to the success of your son’s education. If, in the opinion of the administration, the partnership is no longer viable, CM reserves the right to require parents to withdraw their son from CM.
By enrolling at CM, both parents and the student agree that they will comply with the standards for behavior that are essential to CM.
Policy of Non-Discrimination CM admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available at CM and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
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CATHOLIC MEMORIAL SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT Catholic Memorial is a college preparatory school for boys founded in the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice and guided by the Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brothers Education. Our faith and learning community is dedicated to transforming boys’ lives through academics, arts, athletics, and campus ministry. We challenge students to pursue excellence, embrace Gospel values and lead through service.
The Catholic Memorial Story CM opened its doors on September 9, 1957, with 225 students and five Christian Brothers of Ireland in the former St. Theresa of Avila Parish School building. This building was donated to the Christian Brothers by the late Monsignor Charles A. Donahue, V.F., LL.D. who was the Pastor of St. Theresa’s Church at that time. The school was named, “Catholic Memorial” at the suggestion of His Eminence Richard Cardinal Cushing to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the Archdiocese of Boston as a memorial to all the Catholics who gave so much of themselves in the establishment of educational institutions in the Boston area.
Brother Joseph G. McKenna was the first Headmaster of CM, and it was he who opened the new building which was dedicated by Cardinal Cushing on November 10, 1959. Three years later the classroom wing was opened and school enrollment increased to 1,110 students.
The Middle School program was the vision of Brother E. John Sheehan. It opened its doors in September of 1993.
The Christian Brothers North American Province operates educational institutions in New York (where they started in the U.S. in 1906), New Jersey, Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, Washington, California and Hawaii. They also support missionary efforts in Argentina and Peru, South America. The Christian Brothers run thirty-seven schools in the United States and Canada with almost 300 Brothers.
The religious order was founded in Ireland by Blessed Edmund Rice, a prominent businessman who started schools for the poor and neglected boys of Waterford. Committed to the vows of celibacy, poverty and obedience, the Brothers follow a tradition of excellence and Christian witness which is embodied in the students and alumni of CM.
Accreditation CM is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and by the State of Massachusetts. In addition, CM is affiliated with the following educational organizations:
• National Catholic Educational Association • New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools • Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association • Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ Association • New England League of Middle Schools • Association of Independent Schools in New England • International Boys School Coalition
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The Congregation of Christian Brothers The founder of the Congregation of Christian Brothers, Blessed Edmund Rice, received a unique gift from God: a Gospel that reveals Jesus Christ as present and appealing to him in the poor.
Young men were among the poor people of nineteenth century Ireland without access to basic education and religious instruction. Edmund responded to this need by establishing schools as well as founding the Congregation of Christian Brothers in 1802. Schools conducted by the Congregation of Christian Brothers are now established throughout the world.
Today, the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers North America and their colleagues reaffirm the essential characteristics of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education. The Essential Elements were first written in 2000 after interviews, group discussions, surveys, and extensive participation by representatives of various communities. At a gathering in July of 2006, the power of these documents was reaffirmed by delegates from each ministry site and other Christian Brother stakeholders.
Edmund Rice Christian Brother educational ministries continue to assure mission effectiveness because they can test their faithfulness to Edmund’s vision and their basic educational values against the background of clearly stated Essential Elements. The Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education find their source in ministry begun by Jesus Christ and their inspiration in the vision of Blessed Edmund Rice. These Essential Elements serve as a guide and standard in the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers’ current educational ministries and in future endeavors.
The Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education The Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education Calls Educational Ministry Sites and Those Working in Them to:
I. Evangelize Youth within the Mission of the Church
• proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in word and deed • permeate the entire curriculum, activities, and all aspects of the educational process with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ • encourage young people to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ • provide opportunities for liturgies, retreats, vocation awareness workshops and daily prayer
II. Proclaim and Witness to Catholic Identity
• give priority to religious instruction with opportunities for faith development and theological understanding • participate in the sacramental life of the Church and model a living faith through the use of rituals and symbols • foster devotion to Mary and the communion of saints • ensure that Catholic identity permeates all endeavors: all classes and activities, procedures and policies, services and programs
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III. Stand in Solidarity with those Marginalized by Poverty and Injustice
• promote policies and structures that reflect a climate of compassion for the poor and disadvantaged • include education and advocacy for peace, justice, global awareness, and care for the earth • prepare students to work toward the creation of a just society • encourage ministry experiences that work with and serve the poor and marginalized • support mission areas at home and abroad • establish tuition and scholarship policies that open educational opportunities to the poor and disadvantaged
IV. Foster and Invigorate a Community of Faith
• provide a disciplined, safe atmosphere in which students are free to grow and take responsibility for their own learning and for the life of the community • sustain compassionate, respectful relationships among all stakeholders • be in union with the Church through commitment to service and formation of community • encourage faculty and staff to give daily witness to their integral role in communal faith formation • embrace the human condition and welcome God’s healing
V. Celebrate the Value and Dignity of each Person and Nurture the Development of the Whole Person
• promote respect for each individual as created in the image and likeness of God • value the diversity of the human family and seek to reflect diversity among the students, faculty, and staff • promote strong programs for personal, professional, and pastoral care • offer co-curricular activities and programs that are important to a student’s holistic education • strive to provide just remuneration for faculty and staff
VI. Collaborate and Share Responsibility for the Mission
• empower all members of the community to share in the mission • work with parents who are the primary educators • collaborate with Edmund Rice Christian Brother ministries on local, regional, and international levels • foster a deeper understanding of the vision of Blessed Edmund • promote active participation in governance by boards and diocesan officials
VII. Pursue Excellence in all Endeavors
• promote a strong academic curriculum and cultivate a desire for excellence • develop an educational culture that fosters the growth of the whole person, higher-order thinking, and life-long learning
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A CM Knight From its foundation in 1957 by the Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice Christian Brothers, CM has been a college preparatory school dedicated to transforming boys’ lives. Students are challenged to pursue academic excellence, embrace Gospel values, and engage society as leaders committed to serving others.
Here at CM, we believe deeply in our responsibility to shape the academic, moral, ethical, and spiritual lives of our boys. We understand that middle and high school years are some of the most formative time in the lives of young men. As our young men grow and develop, we seek to build a community and culture that inspires students and allows them to discover their individual passions and inspires them to grow to be men of character.
Through their journey at CM, we challenge our students to engage with and develop the characteristics of a Catholic Memorial Knight.
I. Respect
• A Catholic Memorial Knight treats everyone they encounter with respect. Competing on the athletic fields with poise and class, living and working in solidarity with the poor and marginalized, and lifting up fellow Knights in the classroom, a CM Knight understands that just as God sees all men and women as equal so too does he call us to do the same.
II. Community
• A Catholic Memorial Knight understands that he is a member of a larger community and his decisions and actions help shape what that community can become. During their time at CM, Knights are challenged to imagine their community as both the comfortable confines of Baker Street and the world beyond it. Our students see CM as their “home away from home,” and embrace every student as a true member of the CM family. Our students also understand that they are citizens of the world. They immerse themselves in solidarity with the poor and marginalized through our BERSI service immersion trips locally and abroad.
III. Integrity
• A Catholic Memorial Knight displays integrity in all that he does. Our students hold themselves and each other to a high standard of discipline and behavior in the classroom, on the athletic fields, and in the community. They are taught to value honesty and fairness and to strive to be men of character and integrity who affect change in the school, in the community and in the world.
IV. Faith
• A Catholic Memorial Knight seeks to find and develop his relationship with God. Students engage in conversation, embrace opportunities for faith development and are asked to contemplate the role of faith in their everyday lives. Through interaction with our curriculum, our extra-curricular offerings, and the mentorship of our faculty and staff, CM students see and experience firsthand God’s presence in everything they do.
V. Leadership
• A Catholic Memorial Knight is expected to be a leader in his community and beyond. There are many forms of leadership and our students are encouraged to find a leadership style that is
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authentic to them. Through participation on an athletic team, in the classroom, campus ministry, or our many extra-curricular offerings, our students find a variety of opportunities to experience leadership first hand.
VI. Service
• A Catholic Memorial Knight embraces his duty to serve others. At CM, our students understand, it is through service to others that we appreciate the gifts we have been given and understand our own place in the world. Opportunities for service are afforded and include but not exclusive to the annual Breast Cancer Walk, Mission fundraising, tutoring at local elementary schools, and our BERSI and Senior Service programs. These opportunities along with the many others offer our students the experience of service to others throughout their time at CM.
It is through engagement with these fundamental characteristics that students at CM grow and develop to become young men of character poised to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Governance Trustees Br. Mark Murphy, C.F.C., Chair Br. Raymond Vercruysse, C.F.C. Br. Peter Zawot, C.F.C.
Officers of the Corporation Dr. Peter Folan, President Mr. Thomas Beatty ’68, Executive Vice President Mr. Joseph MacDonald ’02, Controller
Board of Directors Mr. Michael Costello ’67, Chair Mr. Richard Barrett ‘85 Mr. Joseph Brennan Mr. Michael Daley ‘74 Ms. Barbara Finigan Fitzgerald P’16 Mr. Daniel Gaquin ‘78 Mr. Michael Hanley ‘74 Br. Paul Hannon, CFC ‘71 Mr. Martin Joyce ‘64 Mr. Christopher Lee ’75 P’14 Mr. William McCullen ‘83 Ms. Mary Coffey Moran Mr. John Mulhern Mr. Edward W. Raynor ‘70 Mr. Jay Roche Sr. Barbara Rogers, RSCJ Mr. Robert Siccone Mr. Stephen Skinner Mr. Brent Williams Mr. Ray D’Arcy ‘70
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Administration Dr. Peter Folan President Mr. Thomas Beatty ‘68 Principal Ms. Gloria Riley Vice Principal of Grades 11 and 12 Mr. Andrew O’Brien Vice Principal of Grades 9 and 10 Mr. Thomas Ryan Vice Principal of Grades 7 and 8/ Mission and Integration Mr. John Aversa ’78 Vice Principal of Technology Mr. Jack Moynihan ’81 P’18 Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Relations Mr. Joseph P. MacDonald ’02 Chief Financial Officer Mr. Daniel Chisholm ’03 Director of Admissions Mr. Craig Najarian Athletic Director Mr. Brian Palm Director of Operations Mr. Michael Schell Director of College Counseling and Guidance Mr. Kevin Durazo Director of Campus Ministry
Department Chairs Mr. John Aversa ’78 Mathematics/Computer Science Chair Dr. Matthew Wellenbach World Languages Chair Mr. Vincent Bradley Social Studies Chair Mr. Vincent J. Catano P ‘01 English Chair Dr. Michael Corso Theology Chair Mr. Brian Palm Science Chair Mr. Craig Spaner Fine Arts Chair
Faculty Ms. Cassandra Akouri Fine Arts Mr. John Antoni ‘06 Mathematics Mr. Douglas Atkins English Mr. Hal Carey ’95 Mathematics Br. Anthony K. Cavet, C.F.C. World Languages Dr. Laura Connor World Languages Mrs. Caitlin Corsano English Mr. Robert Croteau ’93 English Mr. Shawn Cusson Science Mr. James Dempsey World Languages Mr. Michael Dermody ’07 Theology Mrs. Kristin Douthit Mathematics Ms. Margaret Driscoll Theology Mrs. Ellen Eberly English Mr. Michael Fess Theology Mr. John Finn ’89 Mathematics Mrs. Barbara Flynn P’18 , ‘22 Social Studies Mr. Nick Genovese Theology Mr. Peter Hill Social Studies Dr. Eric Iverson Science Mrs. Nora McGauley Science Mr. Patrick Murray Mathematics Mr. Bradford O’Brien’06 Science Ms. Alexandra Pacor World Languages Mr. Du Park Science Br. Kirk Phelps, C.F.C. Science
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Ms. Leslye Porter English Mr. Paul Rufo World Languages Mr. William Schneiderhan Mathematics Mr. Mark Smith ’85 Social Studies Mrs. Claire Solman Science Mr. John Steichen Theology Mr. Alex Strum English Mr. Bernard J. Sullivan Social Studies Mr. Denis Tobin World Languages Mr. Gabriel Verdaguer World Languages Mr. Mark Wentworth Mathematics
College Counseling and Guidance Ms. Anne Marie Cahalane Administrative Assistant Ms. Mary Concannon Counselor Mr. Declan Foley Counselor Mrs. Kate Gimourginas Counselor Dr. Deborah Margolis Consulting Psychologist Mr. Jack O’Keefe Counselor
Staff Mrs. Anne Batcheller Nurse Mrs. Karen Blodgett Cafeteria Staff Mr. Derek Carty Technology & Integration Specialist Ms. Brenda J. Campbell Database and Stewardship Manager Mr. Jake Campbell Athletic Trainer Mrs. Lisa Capasso Mrs. Elizabeth Check Administrative Assistant to the President Mr. Michael Dermody Assistant Director of Admissions Br. John Dornbos, C.F.C. Special Services and Support Mrs. Marie Downey Business Office Ms. Ann Flanagan Administrative Assistant to the Principal Mrs. Silvana Hanna Cafeteria Staff Ms. Zeina Hanna Cafeteria Staff Mrs. Denise Henry Administrative Assistant to the Vice Principals Mr. Mike Holmes Strength and Conditioning Mr. Charles Jaehnig Maintenance Ms. Taryn Lookner Business Office Mr. Andrew Ludwig Mrs. Patricia Marchand Food Service Mr. Thomas Meagher Assistant Dean of Students Mr. Michael Murphy Maintanence Mrs. Elizabeth O’Connell Alumni and Parents’ Event Manager Mr. Rory O’Connor ’88 Maintenance Mrs. Michelle Pappas Mr. Bartley Regan Assistant Athletic Director Mrs. Nancy Robinson Admissions Office Coordinator Mr. Larry Rooney Associate Director of Admissions
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Academic Studies Following in the footsteps of Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers, CM offers an academic program centered on the wisdom of the Gospels and the liberal arts. We make certain that every CM student is challenged to reach his full potential through our college preparatory program.
With choices of Advanced Placement, honors and accelerated classes in each discipline as well as our Scholars program and through active engagement within vibrant Campus Ministry and Service-Learning programs, students are prepared for acceptance to America’s finest schools and equipped with the confidence and courage to use their personal and intellectual strengths to care for others in their community.
Throughout his unique journey, each student is challenged to cultivate the qualities of mind and heart embodying the Essential Elements of a Catholic Memorial Knight: Leadership, Faith, Service, Community, Respect and Integrity. Our faculty, staff and coaches believe deeply in our responsibility to shape the academic, moral, ethical, and spiritual lives of our boys.
Academic Integrity We believe that as members of the CM community, our students have the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of behavior and integrity at all times. It is critical for the learning environment and the pursuit of knowledge that students take full responsibility for their academic work and receive credit for that work. There are times when working collaboratively and sharing ideas is essential to the learning process. However, it is the student’s responsibility to know and understand at what level that collaboration is allowed and ultimately it is the student’s responsibility to understand and recognize acceptable academic behavior. Students are expected to consult with their teacher if any question of academic integrity could occur.
CM takes seriously any violation of academic integrity. A violation of CM’s Academic Integrity Policy includes but is not limited to:
• Cheating (the fraudulent or dishonest presentation of work) • Plagiarism (the act of taking the words, ideas, data, illustrations, or statements of another person or source, and presenting them as one’s own) • Collusion (the assistance or an attempt to assist another student in an act of academic dishonesty) • Submission of the same work in more than one course without prior written approval from both faculty members involved • Copying or sharing written homework • Bullying other students for information or assignments • Impeding the academic progress of any student through malicious actions • Passing/Sharing (digitally or otherwise) of questions or answers on any graded assignment • Using online or handheld translators or any other unauthorized materials • Intentionally missing a test or major assignment by dismissal or absence • Dishonesty in requests for make-up work • Lying to a teacher or administrator about academic work • Falsification of a signature
Each student is responsible for learning and using proper methods of paraphrasing, footnoting, quotation, and other forms of citation to ensure that the original author, speaker, illustrator, or source of the material used is clearly acknowledged.
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Academic Requirements/Courses of Study
Catholic Memorial Middle School Academic Program (“Middle School program”) In order to complete the course of study for the Middle School program all students are required to take and successfully pass the following courses:
Grade 7 Grade 8 Course Credit Course Credit Theology 7 1 Theology 8 1 English 7 1 English 8 1 Mathematics 7 1 Mathematics 8 1 Science 7 1 Science 8 1 Social Studies 7 1 Social Studies 8 1 Latin 1 World Language 1 Art 1/2 Music 1/2 Music 1/2 Art 1/2
Catholic Memorial High School Academic Program (“High School program”) In order to complete the course of study for the High School program and be eligible for graduation each student is required to take • 4 credits of Theology • 4 credits of English • 3 credits of Social Studies • 3 credits of Mathematics • 3 credits of Science • 3 credits of World Language (students can petition their guidance counselor for an exemption to the third-level, however most colleges recommend four years of language study). • ½ credit of Computer Science • 1 credit of Fine Arts
Each student is required to take and pass a certain number of classes each academic year. Any deviation from the requirement can only be done through approval from that student’s Vice Principal. The required number of courses at each grade level is: • Freshman = 8 classes • Sophomore = 7 classes • Junior = 7 classes • Senior = 6 classes and successful completion of their Senior Service Project
The following is a standard course of study in the High School satisfying all required courses. Additional credits are made up through elective offerings.
Grade Grade Grade Grade Subject Area 9 10 11 12 Theology * * * * English * * * * Mathematics * * * Science * * *
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World Language * * # Social Studies * * * Computer Science * Fine Arts * *= required # = possibility of exemption
Communication By enrolling at CM, our students and their families enter into a partnership with the faculty, staff, and administration of the school in developing their son as a young man. Cooperation in that partnership is paramount for the success of the students. We believe following a proper chain of communication helps to foster self-advocacy in the student while also allowing for that student to be heard. In all cases, a spirit of respect and civility is essential to the resolution of disputes.
• If a problem arises, students should first consult their homeroom or classroom teachers. Teachers know and understand school policies and procedures. If teachers are unable to help, students should consult their respective Guidance Counselor or their Vice Principal. • If a parent has a complaint about a particular teacher, the parent should first discuss the situation with that teacher. This is best for all parties involved. If a parent is reluctant or uncomfortable with meeting a teacher alone, the assistance of an administrator may be requested. • Parents wishing to make contact with an administrator or a teacher may do so by telephoning the Main Office, by accessing CM’s voice-mail delivery system, and/or by email. Replies will be made as soon as possible. • Spontaneous parent visits to classrooms are not allowed. • If parents wish to communicate with their son during the school day, it must be done through the Main Office. Parents are asked to refrain from calling or texting their sons directly during the school day. • Only in the face of a real emergency will a student be interrupted in class. Generally, students may not be called to the telephone during the day, nor will telephone messages be delivered.
Contacting Teachers Each member of the faculty and staff at CM is assigned an email address as well as a phone number with a voicemail box. If a parent or student wishes to contact a member of the faculty, they can find all of the contact information available on the CM website under the faculty directory.
Grading For grading purposes, the school year is divided into four quarters. Grades are updated approximately every two to three weeks on Edline. At the end of each marking period, each student will also receive a copy of his report card by email. Grades are based on numerical averages with the only exception being courses which require pass/fail grades. As part of the High School program, students sit for formal examinations in both December and June.
Final Yearly Grades are calculated in the following manner: • 1st Semester Average o Grade 7 and 8 § 50% 1st Quarter Grade § 50% 2nd Quarter Grade o Grade9 – 12 § 40% 1st Quarter Grade § 40% 2nd Quarter Grade
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§ 20% Midterm Examination • Final Average o Grade 7 and 8 § 25% 1st Quarter Grade § 25% 2nd Quarter Grade § 25% 3rd Quarter Grade § 25% 4th Quarter Grade o Grade9 – 12 § 20% 1st Quarter Grade § 20% 2nd Quarter Grade § 20% 3rd Quarter Grade § 20% 4th Quarter Grade § 10% Mid Term Examination Grade § 10% Final Examination Grade § Successful completion of Senior Service Project Seniors are eligible for exemption from their final examination. Seniors are exempt from final exams if their final yearly average is 80% or better. At the discretion of the faculty and administration, students guilty of serious or repeated disregard for school policy may be denied the privilege of exam exemption. Final year grades for seniors who are exempt from final exams are calculated:
§ 30% 1st Quarter Grade § 30% 2nd Quarter Grade § 30% 3rd Quarter Grade § 10% Mid Term Examination Grade § Successful completion of Senior Service Project The final grade is an average of the entire school year. In order for a student to progress to the next year he must pass all of his courses for that year. Any final yearly average below 65% is considered a failure. If a student receives a failing final mark in a course, he will be expected to make-up the course prior to the start of the next school year in order to be allowed to go on to the next grade level. No student will be allowed to proceed to the next grade if he has a failure on his record. A failure in a semester course must also be made up prior to the start of the next school year. A student may make up a maximum of two full year courses prior to the start of the next school year. Since a student may not continue to the next grade with a failure on his report card, it is the policy of CM that students with three (3) or more failures on their report card withdraw from CM.
Diploma A diploma will be issued to a senior only when all academic requirements are met and when all tuition and fees due CM are paid in full. A student who has been expelled is not entitled to a diploma. No student who leaves CM in poor standing or whose conduct indicates a disregard for the policies, regulations, and philosophy of our school community is entitled to receive a diploma.
Valedictorian/Salutatorian While CM does not publish class rank, we do calculate rank in order to designate the senior class Valedictorian and Salutatorian. The Valedictorian is the member of the senior class who has the highest weighted cumulative GPA at the end of third quarter of his senior year. The Salutatorian is the member of the senior class who has the second highest weighted cumulative GPA at the end of the third quarter of his senior year. Students must attend CM for the entirety of the High School program in order to be eligible for either of these distinctions. It is an honor to receive either of these distinctions and the final designation of these honors will be at the discretion of the Principal.
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Academic Probation At the conclusion of the school year, each student’s academic performance is reviewed by the administration, faculty, and staff. Students who have failed to meet satisfactory academic progress are placed on academic probation for the following school year. Students on academic probation are subject to review of grades and behavior at the end of each marking period. If satisfactory academic progress is not being met, or if the student is found guilty of serious or repeated violations of school policy, that student is subject to further disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from CM.
Examinations During the 2nd quarter and at the end of the 4th quarter, major examinations will be given in each high school course. No student is allowed to take an exam prior to the scheduled exam time. Students absent during an exam will be allowed to make-up the exam only with written verification from a health care provider stating that the absence was due to illness or due to extenuating circumstances by approval of that student’s grade level Vice Principal.
Failure and/or refusal to take an exam could result in immediate dismissal from CM. Students are admitted to exams only when all financial accounts are up to date. If accounts are in arrears, students will not be allowed to sit for examinations.
Homework Students are expected to be fully prepared for their classes each day. This requires considerable study at home. The average student spends between two and three hours each night doing homework assignments. Assignments are given in class and posted on Edline. Homework is expected to be completed at home or during the previous days study periods. Homework should not be completed the day an assignment is due.
Honor Roll Students are recognized at the conclusion of each marking period as having been named to the honor roll if they have received an average at a certain grade level. Based on weighted GPA, honor roll has three levels:
• Principal’s List (Average of 94.5% of higher with no grade less than 90%) • First Honors (Average of 89.5% of higher with no grade less than 80%) • Second Honors (Average of 84.5% of higher with no grade less than 75%)
Test Days CM operates on a 8-day rotating schedule. The following are days in which each department may give tests:
Theology, English, Social Studies Days 1, 3, 5, 7 World Languages, Math, Science Days 2, 4, 6, 8
Transcripts The Guidance Office maintains a permanent record and transcript for each student. This transcript records the courses taken, grades received, attendance, and the standardized testing scores. When a student applies for admission to college, a copy of this record is sent from the Guidance Office to the college.
Students can request an official copy of their transcript in writing from their Guidance counselor.
Course Placement/Selection Each winter, course catalogs for the next year’s offerings will be made available to students and their families. Returning students to CM meet with their teachers and guidance counselor in the spring to
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For Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Department Chairs rank rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors based on first semester grades to determine placement. When the A.P. section or sections are filled, the remaining students will be offered placement in Honor level courses depending upon student ranking and space availability.
Any student who begins an A.P. course is expected to complete that course and must take the national A.P. Exam. Full Payment for the exam is the responsibility of the student and must be received by November 1st. Students will be made aware of the cost of the Exam by their guidance counselor and once again by their A.P. teacher at the beginning of the school year.
Students taking online A.P. courses are responsible for the software requirements on any home computer. Online classes will be held in the Catholic Memorial Academic Resource Center during regularly scheduled periods and arranged by CM’s Virtual High School Coordinator. If a student drops an online course, they remain liable for the full cost of the class.
Student Resources CM understands that a student’s learning process goes beyond the time spent in the classroom. With that in mind, there are a number of resources students can take advantage of for further academic instruction and aid.
• After School Study o Students in the middle school as well as freshmen in the high school have the opportunity to participate in an after school study supervised by a member of the faculty in a designated classroom. • Catholic Memorial Academic Resource Center (CMARC) o CMARC is open from 7:30-4:00 Monday through Friday. o CMARC offers peer tutoring every afternoon. • National Honors Society tutors o Members of the National Honors Society tutor students in the middle school and are available to work one on one with students in the high school. o Interested students should speak with their guidance counselor.
Summer Work Students are assigned work each summer in some of their classes. This includes summer reading of 3 to 4 titles and summer math work. Those assignments are posted on the website for the students and parents to view. Students are expected to complete the work in full prior to the start of the school year. They are then tested/assessed on that work during the first month of school and those grades will count as 10% of the student’s 1st quarter grade.
Schedules TIME DAY START END 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7:55 8:05 HR HR HR HR HR HR HR HR 8:05 8:52 A H G F E D C B
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8:52 9:39 B A H G F E D C 9:39 10:26 C B A H G F E D 10:26 11:13 D C B A H G F E 11:13 1:01 E D C B A H G F 1:01 1:48 F E D C B A H G 1:48 2:35 G F E D C B A H
DROPPED H G F E D C B A PERIOD
LUNCH PERIODS
11:13 11:40 LUNCH I 11:40 12:07 LUNCH II 12:07 12:34 LUNCH III 12:34 1:01 LUNCH IV
Regular Day Mass Day Period Minutes Period Minutes 7:55 8:05 HR 10 7:55 8:00 HR 5 8:05 8:52 1 47 8:00 8:36 1 36 8:52 9:39 2 47 8:36 9:12 2 36 9:39 10:26 3 47 9:12 10:23 Mass 71 10:26 11:13 4 47 10:23 10:59 3 36 11:13 1:01 5 108 10:59 11:35 4 36 1:01 1:48 6 47 11:35 1:23 5 108 1:48 2:35 7 47 1:23 1:59 6 36 1:59 2:35 7 36
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Early Dismissal Meeting Day 1 Period Minutes Period Minutes 7:55 8:00 HR 5 7:55 8:05 HR 10 8:00 8:32 1 32 8:05 8:43 1 38 8:32 9:04 2 32 8:43 9:21 2 38 9:04 9:36 3 32 9:21 9:59 3 38 9:36 10:08 4 32 9:59 10:37 4 38 10:08 11:56 5 108 10:37 12:25 5 108 11:56 12:28 6 32 12:25 1:03 6 38 12:28 1:00 7 32 1:03 1:41 7 38 1:00 Dismiss 1:41 2:35 Meeting 54
Meeting Day 2 Meeting Day 3 Period Minutes Period Minutes 7:55 8:49 Meeting 54 7:55 8:05 HR 10 8:49 8:59 HR 10 8:05 8:43 1 38 8:59 9:37 1 38 8:43 9:21 2 38 9:37 10:15 2 38 9:21 9:59 3 38 10:15 10:53 3 38 9:59 10:53 Meeting 54 10:53 11:31 4 38 10:53 11:31 4 38 11:31 1:19 5 108 11:31 1:19 5 108 1:19 1:57 6 38 1:19 1:57 6 38 1:57 2:35 7 38 1:57 2:35 7 38
School Life We at CM understand that your son's education extends far beyond academic discipline. We challenge our students inside and outside the classroom to grow and develop as young men of character by embracing new experiences. With that in mind, a variety of unique and diverse opportunities are offered to help students expand their interests and become fully engaged in campus life.
CM faculty, staff, coaches and administrators are committed to working with your son in class, on the athletic fields, and by taking part in various clubs and activities before and after school. Through these important interactions our students experience CM as far more than a school they attend for 6 years. It becomes a “home” for life.
CM is committed to maintaining a school environment free of harassment and any form of bullying, cyber-bullying or hazing is strictly prohibited whether in or out of school. CM takes this commitment very seriously, and has outlined its policies in the Appendix. Any parent or student who experiences,
21 | Page witnesses, or otherwise becomes aware of this prohibited behavior should contact the Principal or Vice Principal so that CM can immediately take appropriate and corrective action.
The Administration, and our faculty and staff, is dedicated to ensuring the best experience for all students and their families. We are an important resource for a variety of questions and concerns regarding clubs and activities, Campus Ministry programs, discipline, and transportation, just to name a few.
We enthusiastically encourage our young men to take advantage of all CM has to offer.
College Counseling and Guidance The aim of the Guidance Program is to assist students in their personal, academic and vocational development. While students are free to seek advice from any teacher, they are strongly urged to use the services of the Guidance Staff which is especially prepared to give assistance.
CM provides systematic aid through the direction of the Counselors by means of interviews, counseling sessions, and testing tools. All students are invited to avail themselves of the services of the Guidance Department and may do so by simply requesting an appointment in the Guidance Office. Counselors are assigned to a particular student to enable all students to be interviewed during the year. Normally, a student is asked to refrain from making appointments during a scheduled test, quiz, or exam and to present a Guidance Pass to his teacher at the beginning of class. A student is responsible for all work missed during Guidance appointments. However, in certain instances, this procedure may be waived because of the seriousness of the situation. If parents wish to speak with their son’s Counselor, they may arrange an interview by phoning (617) 469-8010.
College Counseling Catholic Memorial’s College Counseling and Guidance Program cares for each student in the pursuit of excellence in his high school, college, academic, and personal development. The College Counseling and Guidance department works closely with CM’s Consulting Psychologist and Vice Principals to ensure that each student is receiving the proper care.
Upon entering Catholic Memorial, every student is entrusted to the care of a full-time Counselor, who provides individual and family support to meet and overcome any personal and academic challenges he may encounter. Counselors meet with their assigned students throughout the year individually, in small groups and in grade-level Beyond CM class meetings. Counselors will stay aware of their respective student’s academic performance, co-curricular involvement, and learning style, enabling them to guide each student according to his strengths and needs and to help him shape his academic future accordingly.
One of the most important decisions our students will make is choosing the right college or post- secondary environment. College counseling is provided to all students beginning in freshman year through the completion of Beyond CM. Guided by Catholic Memorial’s mission inspired by the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice “to shape the academic, moral, ethical, and spiritual lives of our boys,” Beyond CM is designed to form the vision and virtues that help students flourish in the classroom and community. Beyond CM classes are fully-integrated within the Theology curriculum to provide a framework to develop the skills to grow emotionally, socially, and spiritually and to maximize success at choosing a college that is the right personal fit and spiritual home. Each student will be challenged to grow in his own desire for self-knowledge and personal improvement. He will be encouraged to identify the connection between his faith, aspirations, and achievements, and how his college search process is part of life-shaping vocational discernment.
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Individual student and parent college meetings with counselors begin formally during Grade 11. Students are supported in setting fitting, effective goals for improvement and embracing their personal strengths that will guide them through their unique college search.
In the late spring, juniors are encouraged to visit various college fairs in the area, including the NACAC Fair and a College Fair hosted at CM in May.
In the senior year, the program emphasizes one-on-one meetings between students and their Counselors and Director of College Counseling. The counselors work closely with students to fine-tune their final list of college applications, prepare for fall standardized tests, prepare to visit colleges, and meet visiting representatives on campus. Once Counselors have met with students several times and gleaned information from other important faculty sources (teachers, coaches, etc.), he or she will write their official counselor recommendation submitted on behalf of each student to his college selections.
Custody The custodial parent or legal guardian is the only public person authorized to access the private information of a respective student. Especially in cases of divorce, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent that has legal custody to inform CM in writing and to describe the kind of access a non- custodial parent may have. Other relatives have no right of access to student information unless that right of access is granted by the custodial parent or legal guardian in writing.
Only custodial parents can give consent for a student to be picked up prior to the 2:35 end of day bell. However, at 2:35 P.M., the responsibility of pick up lies with the family.
Identification Cards Each student is issued a school identification card and they should carry it with him at all times. If a card is lost at any time during the year, it should be reported to their Vice Principal who will arrange for a new card to be issued.
Technology Acceptable Use Policy At school, the faculty and staff blend thoughtful use of computers and the Internet throughout the curriculum and provide guidance and instruction to students in their use. CM provides controls and filtering protection on CM’s network. Outside of school, families bear responsibility for the education and monitoring of their son’s internet and computer usage much as they do with television, telephones, radio, movies, and other media. CM will not be held responsible for users’ intentional misuse of the internet or equipment.
Laptop and Tablet Technology Policy Personal computers, tablets, and other technology used for educational purposes are permitted and encouraged during the school day, but will be subject to the discretion of faculty and staff, and should not in any way disrupt the learning process. Faculty and Staff have the right to decide when use of technology is appropriate, and at what times devices should be turned off or put away. Use of technology that is not relevant to coursework is not allowed during instructional time. Personal access for recreational reasons is allowed only during personal time. CM’s goal is to use technology to facilitate on- line materials, note taking, resource sharing, innovation, research, creativity, communication, increased productivity, and mobile learning.
Student use of tablets or similar devices requires the student’s adherence to CM’s Acceptable Use Policy, Computer and/or Internet Use Policy, Social Networking Guidelines, and Academic Integrity policy (all
23 | Page herein). Inappropriate use of technology will be subject to disciplinary action and may also result in loss of technology privileges.
Computer and/or Internet Use Policy CM’s technology is meant for educational purposes: classroom instruction, research, and/or approved projects. In order to accomplish these goals, CM’s computers may be used for accessing research databases and libraries of information in the form of text, graphics, photographs, video, and sound, as well as for interacting and collaborating with others. This also applies to personal computers, tablets, or electronic devices used on CM’s campus or accessing CM’s network.
Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include (but are not limited to) being polite, using appropriate language, properly citing and/or obtaining permission for all information from research sources when the information used from those sources is included in a work as a direct quote or paraphrase.
Transfer Students A student transferring from CM must present a written request from his parents to the Principal that his records may be sent to a designated secondary school. The transfer procedure will be explained to the student and/or parent at the time of transfer. The student’s records will be sent directly to the designated school once all outstanding tuition and fees are paid in full.
Campus Ministry Campus Ministry is the spiritual heart of the CM community. The purpose of Campus Ministry is to invigorate the faith formation of boys through a variety of programs, including liturgies and sacraments, retreats, the Peer Ministry Program, and both local and travel based service and immersion experiences.
Throughout each of our programs, our boys are empowered to open their hearts to the presence of God in their life and in their relationships, and to respond to the Christ-like example of Blessed Edmund Rice to recognize the gifts that God has given each of them to go out into the world to love and serve others. Though our prayer and reflection is Roman Catholic in nature and inspired by the charism of the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers, students of any or no faith tradition are most welcome and valued in all Campus Ministry programs. As such, Campus Ministry programs invite all students to:
• examine the ideals and values that guide their life. • grow in their personal relationship with God and others. • reflect on and respond to how God is calling them to put their unique gifts and talents in service of the Church and world.
Service Program Requirements • All students in grades 9 through 11 must complete and log their mandatory service hours and corresponding reflection assignments prior to their promotion to the next grade. o Grade 9: 15 hours total (10 hours to the outside community; 5 stewardship hours at CM). o Grade 10: 20 hours total (15 hours to the outside community; 5 stewardship hours at CM). o Grade 11: 25 hours total (20 outside hours to a marginalized community; 5 stewardship hours at CM). *Students who join the school during the school year will be required to complete an adjusted number of hours as determined by the appropriate Vice Principal. • Grade 12: Senior Service Project:
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o Students must complete and log their 60-hour senior service project requirement and corresponding capstone project and presentation prior to graduation. o Students will not receive their diploma if they have not completed all components of the Senior Service Project.
Religious Activities We cultivate the maturation of CM students and their longing for God and service to neighbor through various religious programs, community liturgies, and academically rigorous theology classes. With campus ministers, committed Christian Brothers, and dedicated lay Christians within the CM community, the gospel values of our Church are transmitted to our students. It is the expectation that during all school wide religious activities that all students participate in some form.
Chapel Students are encouraged to use the school chapel. Because the chapel is a special place to pray, all are asked to show respect for the sacramental presence of Jesus in the Tabernacle, and for others who wish to pray there.
Policy Regarding Non-Catholic Students Students who are not Catholic are welcomed members of our community. They are required to take mandatory academic courses in Theology each year. They are also required to attend, but not required to participate in, school-wide religious services.
Medication A confidential file is maintained by the school nurse listing all students who take medication during school hours. Medication here applies to that which may be purchased over the counter (e.g., Tylenol) as well as that which is prescribed by a health care provider. The parent of a student requiring such medication must provide the nurse with written authorization and the following pertinent information: student’s name, date of birth, medication name, specific dosage, medication times, signature of parent or health care provider, and date. Oral authorization is insufficient.
No student should carry medication with him through the day. All medication should be brought to the nurse before school. The nurse will dispense prescription medication. Such medication must be taken or consumed in the presence of the nurse.
No student will be allowed to remain at CM after the first week of October without an updated school record of health and an updated physical on file. It is the parents’ responsibility to inform the school nurse of any serious medical problem(s) their son(s) may have, e.g., congenital defects, epilepsy, diabetes, etc.
Visitors All visitors must report to the Main Office in the High School and sign in upon entering CM. No unescorted visitors are permitted beyond the Main Office area. Only with the permission of the Principal or Vice Principal may students invite guests to CM.
School Announcements CMTV, CM bulletin boards, and the public address system are used to make all school and activity announcements. Students are expected to read the boards daily and are held responsible for information posted thereon or announced over the public address system or on CMTV.
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Books and Lockers At the beginning of the year, on the first full day of class, each student must own a complete set of books (hardcopies or digital versions). • It is recommended that a magic marker be used to print the student’s name in large letters along the edges of the pages (opposite the binding when the book is closed). • Students are warned not to prop open their lockers or give out their combinations to other students. • On the last day of final exams for the High School and on the last day of instruction for the Middle School, all materials must be removed from lockers. Anything left in lockers will be subject to disposal at the discretion of CM.
Lost Property While CM assumes no responsibility or liability for lost or stolen personal property, in the middle school building such losses should be reported immediately to the Middle School Guidance Counselor. In the high school building, such losses should be reported immediately to the Vice Principal. For easy identification, all personal property, including books, should have the owner’s name and homeroom written on them. • Items found in the Main Building should be brought to the Main Office. • Items found in the gym or on the fields should be brought to the Main Office. • Items found in Donahue Hall should be brought to the Guidance Office in Donahue Hall. • Items left unclaimed at the end of each quarter are donated to charity.
Facilities Cafeteria • Tables and floors must be left clean. Students must be relatively quiet and orderly. Each student has the obligation to see to it that his own lunch area is left clean. Papers, food and cartons should be placed in the receptacles provided for this purpose. • During lunch, no student(s) may leave the cafeteria without the permission of a teacher. • In the morning, the cafeteria will close at 7:45a.m. and reopen after homeroom. • Food and drinks are available for purchase throughout the day while the cafeteria is open.
John Walsh Fieldhouse • Students may not eat or drink in the fieldhouse • No student is to be in the fieldhouse unless a staff member is supervising the area • The weight room area and turf are to be left neat and clean. Students have an obligation to maintain the equipment and to return anything to its original placement once used.
Innovation Lab • No food or drink is allowed in the Innovation Lab • No student is allowed access to the lab unless a staff member is supervising the area
Ronald S. Perry Sr. Gymnasium • Students may not eat or drink in the gym. • Only gym suitable shoes are allowed on the playing surface. • No student is to be in the gym or in the weight room at any time unless a staff member is supervising the area.
Bathrooms • Bathrooms are to be used solely for their designated purpose. • Congregating in bathrooms, leaving bathrooms unclean, or defacement of school property may result in disciplinary action.
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Catholic Memorial Academic Resource Center (CMARC) • CMARC is open before school and remains open until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is available to students who have free periods during the day, lunch periods, and to all students before and after school.
Telephone • The Main Office phone is a business phone and cannot be used by students except with permission. Parents should call for students only in matters of real emergency.
Student Life Attendance 1) Absent
• Absence from school is permitted only for reasons of sickness or family emergency. • A student who is absent is required to have his parent telephone CM each morning of his absence between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 A.M. • No student will be admitted to class after a period of absence unless he brings a note with him, signed by one of his parents stating the reason for the absence and the date (or dates) of the absence. This note should be presented at the attendance window in the main lobby. An admit slip will be issued which the student will present to his homeroom teacher. • It is the student’s responsibility to prepare for each class and to attend each class. If a student is absent from class, it is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements to make up missed work. Students may make-up work missed during an excused absence, but suffer loss of credit for work missed during unexcused absences. In cases of prolonged illness (several days or more) parents should contact the Guidance Department for assignments. Assignments are also regularly posted by teachers on Edline. • Motor vehicle, dental, medical, and all other appointments should be scheduled after school hours, on Saturdays, or during vacation periods and not on school days. • CM feels strongly that neither parents nor students should be allowed to adjust the official school calendar for their own convenience. No vacations should be planned for periods that CM is in session. All unauthorized extended vacations will be considered unexcused absences and the student will not be excused from missed class material. • If a student does have to miss an extended period of classes, parents need to contact their Vice Principal and receive approval prior to the leave. No excused absence will be granted retroactively. It is at the discretion of their Vice Principal to grant excused absences. • In the event that a student has to miss significant time, he will be required to follow along with his assignments via Edline. Teachers are not required to give assignments early.
2) Truancy
• A falsified note or phone call regarding truancy will render a student liable to suspension or expulsion. • Truancy will automatically place a student on probation. If a student is truant twice, he is liable to expulsion.
3) Lateness
• There is no difference between late and tardy. Students arriving after 7:55 will be tardy. • Students must be in homeroom at 7:55 and must remain in homeroom. Students should not be in the bathroom, in the library, or receiving extra help during homeroom without the prior consent of
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the homeroom teacher. • Tardiness will only be excused with a doctor’s note, dentist’s note, a family emergency, or in the event a CM sponsored bus arrives late. • The first unexcused tardy of the quarter will result in a warning (unless student arrives after 8:25, in which case the student will receive detention). o The second unexcused tardy of the quarter will result in a 45 minute detention. o The third unexcused tardy of the quarter will result in a Saturday detention. o The fourth unexcused tardy of the quarter will result in a meeting with the student and the parent. o The fifth unexcused tardy of the quarter will result in an internal suspension for the day. The student will not be allowed to participate in any afterschool activity, games, or practice. o The sixth unexcused tardy of the quarter will require a meeting with The Discipline Board. • Once a student has arrived on campus, he may not leave without permission from an Administrator.
4) Illness
• A student who becomes ill at school must receive permission from the teacher to go to the nurse. After obtaining permission, the student must report directly to the nurse and sign-in. • Any student who does not report to class or to the nurse will be considered absent. • If a student is unable to return to class, the parent will be called to pick him up. If the student drives to school, he will be sent home after the parent is called.
5) School Cancellation/Delays
• During inclement weather, school cancellation is determined by the Principal. Students should watch TV stations 4, 5, or 7 for information. The Alert-Now phone system will also be used.
6) Absences and Extra-curricular Activities/Participation
• Students absent from school may not attend extra-curricular activities or school functions on the day of the absence. • Students who become ill at school and go home sick may not participate in any extra- curricular activities that day. • Students who arrive late to school and are not in attendance for four (4) consecutive academic classes may not participate in any extra-curricular activities that day.
7) Extended Absence
• Extended absence due to illness, injury, or hospitalization falls under the authority of the Vice Principals. Each absence will be evaluated on an individual basis. • Short term illness (one day to one week) should be handled by the parent and the individual teachers. Guidance counselors can facilitate the process as needed. o Assignments are posted on Edline. Parents should attempt to access Edline before asking the Guidance Office to intervene. o Teachers will allow reasonable time for make-up work. Generally speaking, students are allowed one extra day to make up work for each day of absence. For example, if a student is absent for three days he has three days to make up the work starting on the date of return to school.
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o Homework, assignments, quizzes and tests are expected to be made up and the specifics regarding such arrangements are made between the teacher and student. • For extended absence (more than five days) parents need to keep CM updated. o In such cases, the student’s guidance counselor and Vice Principal should be informed of the details of the illness and the prognosis. o In terms of work being covered during the absence, Edline is the primary source of homework information for these extended absences. Students are expected to make an attempt to complete assignments listed on Edline. o If for health reasons and/or in the case of extended absence of ten days or longer, a student will be expected to master the material covered during the absence but may not be required to take make up quizzes and tests. The determination will be made by his Vice Principal on a case by case basis. • In the case of extended absence for mental health reasons (whether day treatment or hospitalization), the student’s re-entry to school will be allowed only after school contact with the mental health provider and the establishment of a formal re-entry plan. o A re-entry plan generally requires a meeting at CM with the student’s Vice Principal, the student’s guidance counselor, the school psychologist (if available), at least one parent or guardian, and a representative from the hospital or agency overseeing the treatment (if possible). o CM must receive evidence of an ongoing mental health treatment plan involving collaboration between school, provider, and parents before the student will be allowed to return.
Dress Code At CM, we appreciate and respect the individuality and culture of all of our students. We also believe that uniforms help to raise students’ expectations of themselves when they are dressed neatly and seriously. We do hold our students to a set of standards wherein we expect them to be in full school uniform at all times during the school day. We want our students to evaluate themselves and be evaluated for what they are on the inside instead of by the clothes they are wearing on the outside. We believe that students demonstrate a pride in themselves and a commitment to the larger CM community by upholding and embracing our dress code. Dressing neatly and within the boundaries of the stated dress code while in school is the responsibility of the student and his parents. However, school authorities will take the necessary actions if this responsibility is not fulfilled.
Regardless of grade level or season a CM student is expected to dress neatly and adhere to the following criteria for dress. • Hair should be no longer than the top of the students collar and neatly combed at all times o Extreme variations in color, length, and designs (including but not limited to mohawks, lettering, shaved areas of hair) are not permitted • Students should be cleanly shaven with no facial hair • Earrings or any other body piercings are not permitted o Any student who refuses to remove an earring will be sent home • Hats and head gear must be removed upon entering the school building • In the case of inclement weather, winter coats can be worn between classes when outside the building but are to be removed inside the buildings at all times
Some aspects of the CM dress code differ depending on the season and a student’s grade level. Below is a description of the expected dress for students during the school year.
Fall/Spring Dress Code (Before Columbus Day and after March 31)
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Grades: 7 & 8
• Short Sleeve, red knit shirt, embroidered with CM logo o Shirt must be tucked in at all times • Dockers style navy dress pants • Dress Belt • Dress Shoes • Socks • No jackets, sweatshirts or pullovers of any kind may be worn
Grades: 9 - 12
• A CM – monogrammed, solid color, knit polo shirt (evergreen, burgundy, white, navy blue, cobalt blue or black) o Undershirts should not extend past the polo shirt sleeve and must be of appropriate color so as not to be seen under the polo shirt • Dockers style dress pants o Solid color navy blue or khaki and free of any design o No corduroy, cargo, painter, or double-knee pants o Pants cannot have more than four pockets (2 in front and 2 in back) • Dress Belt • Dress Shoes • Socks • No jackets, sweatshirts or pullovers of any kind may be worn
Winter Dress Code (Between Columbus Day and March 31)
Grades: 7 & 8
• White oxford cloth shirt with a button down collar o Shirt must be fully buttoned at all times o Shirt must be tucked in at all times • Regimental striped tie • Dockers style navy blue dress pants • Dress belt • Dress shoes • Socks • Grey CM-monogrammed V-neck sweater (optional) – No sweat shirts or jackets allowed
Grades: 9 – 12
• A solid colored, oxford dress shirt with a full button down collar o Shirt must be full buttoned at all times o Shirt must be tucked in at all times • CM Monogrammed school necktie o Tie must be pulled to collar at all times • Dockers style dress pants o Solid color navy blue or khaki and free of any design o No corduroy, cargo, painter, or double-knee o Pants cannot have more than four pockets (2 in front and 2 in back) • Dress belt
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• Dress shoes • Socks • CM Pullover (optional) o Available in the bookstore o No sweaters, full zip pullovers, V-neck sweatshirts, hooded sweatshirts, or jackets allowed The Vice Principals are the final arbiters of all dress code conformity. Any student who fails to uphold the tenants of the dress code are subject to disciplinary response including but not limited to suspension from school. Refusal to adhere to any part of the dress code will result in the student being sent home from school.
Discipline CM holds itself and its students to a high standard of behavior at all times. Students are expected to conduct themselves as gentlemen both on and off campus. It is important for them to realize that their behavior, both good and bad, reflects on themselves and the CM community as a whole. Therefore, each student has an obligation to his fellow students, to the faculty, staff and administration, and to the alumni to uphold the name of CM by courteous and acceptable conduct, whether in or out of school.
When students fail to live up to these expectations disciplinary response is required. Disciplinary action can take on a number of forms given the nature and frequency of the infraction(s). Your grade level’s Vice Principal is the arbiter of disciplinary action. The following are consequences for an infraction of policy of CM.
• Detention o Any student who violates any CM policy or is acting outside of the best interest of himself or the CM community is subject to detention. § Detention is held Monday-Friday beginning 10 minutes after school dismissal and lasting 45 minutes. § All students are expected to serve their detention on the same day they receive it. • Failure to serve will result in a student receiving 2 additional detentions on a first offense • Failure to appear for a detention for a second time will result in the student being suspended from CM • Continued refusal to serve detention may result in expulsion from CM § Detention may, at times, be turned into school service and students may be expected to clean the school area or perform menial tasks. • Saturday Detention o When a student violates a CM policy in such a way that is deemed inappropriate beyond a minor offense, the student is subject to a Saturday detention. § Saturday detention is held Saturday morning at 8am and runs 1 hour § All students are expected to serve their detention the same week they have received it. • Failure to appear for a Saturday detention for a first time will result in that student being suspended from school • Continued refusal to serve a Saturday detention may result in that student being expelled from CM § Saturday detention may, at times, be turned into school service and students may be expected to clean the school area or perform menial tasks. • Suspension
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o When a student violates a CM policy in such a way that is deemed inappropriate or unsafe for the greater school community, or continually demonstrates an inability to conform to CM’s standards of conduct, that student is subject to suspension. § Students can be suspended both internally and externally. § No student who has been suspended can re-enter the community until his parent(s) or guardian(s) and the student meet with one of the Vice Principals. § A student under suspension is not allowed to participate in school sponsored events. § Any student externally suspended is not allowed on campus during his suspension. § Any student suspended from school will automatically be placed on disciplinary probation for the remainder of the school year. • Expulsion o On occasion, due to the nature and/or frequency of an infraction or multiple infractions a student may be expelled from CM. o Students who have been expelled are not allowed to attend CM as a student, or be present on school grounds or at school sponsored events.
A record of all infractions and disciplinary responses will be kept and filed with the student’s record. Participation in extra-curricular activities, work, and/or appointments is not sufficient reason for postponement of disciplinary action. Only your Vice Principal may postpone a detention.
Below are general guidelines for the number of days of detention given for various infractions. These guidelines represent disciplinary action for students who have committed a first offense and otherwise are in good academic and behavioral standing. However, we reserve the right to add days of detention or to impose additional disciplinary measures based on the severity of the act, or if the student commits the same act on multiple occasions. Additional disciplinary measures might include a call to a parent, a meeting with a parent, suspension, appearance before the Discipline Board, or expulsion. Below is a sample of violations and the disciplinary response that could occur on a first offense. They are included but not limited to:
Days of Violation Detention Classroom Disruption 1 Defiance 1 Disorderly Conduct 1 Disrespect 1 Dress Code Violation 1 Failure to Report to a Teacher 1 Failure to Submit an Absent Note 1 Late for Class 1 Failure to Report to Detention 2 Lying 2 Violation of Academic Integrity 3 Cutting Class/Assembly 3 Removed from Class 3 Truancy 5
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Any flagrant abuse of the above will make the student liable for suspension or expulsion.
The following infraction will make a student liable to be suspended or expelled on a first offense. They include but are not limited to:
Violation Bullying Fighting/Assault Possession of Drugs/Alcohol Under the Influence of Drugs/Alcohol Possession of a Weapon at School/School Event Selling Drugs/Alcohol Stealing Vandalism
Any action, or series of actions, whether it occurs on campus or off campus, that is deemed to pose an immediate threat to the well-being and operation of the CM community or community at large, the Principal has the right to issue an immediate and automatic expulsion from CM.
Disciplinary Probation Under Disciplinary Probation, a student’s behavior is closely monitored due to prior unacceptable behavior.
Probation may be incurred for frequent repetition of a serious infraction of the rules. Some of these serious infractions are: insolence to a teacher, truancy, unexcused absence from a class or leaving school grounds without permission. Violation of probation makes a student liable for expulsion. Any offense subject to suspension is considered a violation of probation.
A student may remain on probation throughout his enrollment at CM. Any student suspended from school will automatically be placed on disciplinary probation for the remainder of the school year.
All students on disciplinary probation are reviewed by the administrative team at the conclusion of the school year. Continued discipline issues while on disciplinary probation may result in loss of financial aid and scholarship and can lead to a student’s dismissal from CM.
Disciplinary Board In cases of serious violation of CM’s policies, a student may be required to meet with a Disciplinary Board. The Disciplinary Board is made up of at least 1 Administrator, 2 faculty members, and the student’s Guidance Counselor and serves in an advisory capacity to the Principal. The student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s) are required to attend the hearing and the student is allowed to request a member of the faculty or staff be present to advocate for him. The hearings are closed and no other individuals (advocates, legal counsel, and friends) may attend.
The hearing generally proceeds as follows: • The student and parents are asked to sign a statement acknowledging the meeting and committing to being open and honest in all recounting and discussion. • The Administrator makes the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) aware of the violation that has been alleged.
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• The student is given the option to offer his own recollection of the incident. o Lying to the Discipline Board, even if it is discovered at a later date, is grounds for immediate expulsion. • The members of the Board ask questions of the student and/or parent(s)/guardian(s). • The student and parent(s)/guardian(s) are given the option to offer a final statement. • The student and parent(s)/guardian(s) are dismissed from the hearing. • The Administrator reconvenes the board the next day, if possible, or as soon as possible for the members of the board to discuss the findings of the hearing and to deliberate on recommendations for the Principal. • The Board makes a recommendation to the Principal for disciplinary action. • The Principal makes the Vice Principal aware of the final decision and the Principal or his designee contacts the student and his family to convey the final decision.
In the event the student is expelled from CM as a result of the decision made through the Discipline Board process, the student and his family have the right to appeal the decision to the Head of School. Those appeals are heard on a case by case basis. In order to appeal the decision: • The family must provide a written explanation of their appeal to the Head of School within 48 hours of the initial decision. • After reviewing the request, the Head of School may invite the family to meet with him to discuss the appeal further. o The Head of School may also render a decision based solely on the contents of the letter. No meeting is required. • If a meeting is held, the Head of School will render a decision on the appeal within 24 hours of the meeting. • The Head of School may offer the family the right to withdraw their son from CM as opposed to being expelled. o The family would have 24 hours to take the option of withdrawal or the student would be expelled. • Any student who withdraws or is dismissed from CM is required to pick up his belongings from his locker from the main office within 48 hours of his dismissal. • Any student who withdraws or is dismissed from CM is not entitled to any tuition refund.
Integrity On and Off Campus A CM student is expected to conduct himself as a gentleman at all times. Students should be aware that at all times they represent CM. Their behavior, both good and bad, reflects on CM. Therefore, each student has an obligation to his fellow students, to the faculty and to the administration to uphold the name of CM by courteous and acceptable conduct, whether in or out of school. Any student who violates any CM policy or represents himself or CM in a negative way on or off campus is subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from school.
Drugs and Alcohol The faculty and administration of CM are concerned about the problem that alcohol and other drugs can bring upon young people. Our hope is that with parental support, our students can be chemical free. We recognize the fact that many young people do experiment with substances and that some have drinking and drug problems. Our policies concerning use of intoxicating substances reflect our concerns with this problem.
CM expects a “no use” policy for all of our students at all times. We strongly disagree with parents who allow parties where there will be consumption of alcohol and drug use among young people. Such conduct is illegal and gives permission for young people to use drugs while reinforcing the false belief that one must use a mind altering drug to be sociable.
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• If a student is suspected of using an illegal substance, the Vice Principal will do the following: o Confiscate the substance. Also, CM reserves the right to administer a breathalyzer or other appropriate drug test. § Refusal to participate in either a breathalyzer or any other drug test is an automatic admission of guilt. o Immediately notify parents or guardians. o Convene the Discipline Board as soon as possible to meet with the student and his parents or guardians. o Work with the Discipline Board to make specific recommendations to the Principal. o Take disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate. • Selling or supplying any drug is a major infraction of the CM rules and will result in immediate expulsion from CM. Alcohol is treated as seriously as any other drug. In cases where there is a controlled substance involved (marijuana, cocaine, etc.), proper law enforcement authorities will be notified. • Should it come to the attention of the faculty or staff that a party or other setting is being planned at which alcohol or drugs will be made available to minors, parents of students organizing the event will be informed. • CM strongly disapproves of unchaperoned spring break trips. Parents, who allow their sons to participate in such activities, seriously undermine our efforts to cultivate mature Christian gentlemen. • By acceptance of enrollment, students, their parents and guardians consent to and authorize all reasonable action on the part of school authorities to enforce this policy including, but not limited to, the utilization of searches, questioning, and other investigative tools.
CM strongly discourages its students from smoking. See Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (“MIAA”) Chemical Health Rule.
• According to state law, smoking is not allowed anywhere on school property. • Students are not allowed to carry cigarettes, e-cigarettes, tobacco products, lighters or matches on school property. • Use or possession of the aforementioned will result in disciplinary action.
Searches CM Administration retains control over lockers loaned to students and regulates the parking of automobiles on and around campus. The CM Principal and/or designee, therefore, have the right to inspect and search student lockers, book bags, and vehicles. The CM Principal and/or designee, in exercise of CM’s duty to enforce school discipline and to protect the health and safety of the student body, also has the right and duty to search a student’s person if drugs, weapons, dangerous illegal or prohibited matter, or stolen items are likely to be found on the student’s person. Items or goods retrieved from such searches may be turned over to law enforcement officials.
Leaving Campus Students are not permitted to leave campus during the school day except with the permission of an Administrator. Seniors who do not have a scheduled class during last period of the day may release themselves from school for the day by signing out at the front desk if the Vice Principal has a signed permission slip on file from that student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).
Gambling Gambling in any form is not allowed. This includes cards, dice, coin games, sports betting cards, etc.
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Cell Phone Cell phones may not be used during the academic day: 7:55 a.m.–2:35 p.m. Parents are asked to refrain from calling or texting their sons directly during the school day. In the case of an emergency please contact the main office.
Neighborhood Students must not congregate - before or after school - in the neighborhood or in local businesses: Dunkin Donuts, the Shell gas station, Tony’s Place, or Star Market Plaza.
Unauthorized use of School Name No student, or student’s parent or guardian may utilize CM’s name or identifying logo without the expressed permission of CM’s President.
Unauthorized use of CM’s name may subject the student to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.
Unsafe Practices Any student who places another student or adult member of the CM community at risk through assault, possession of a weapon (or what appears to be a weapon of any kind), the creation of fires or other harmful actions, or who causes deliberate harm to another by violent means will be liable to expulsion.
Rules of Safety The rules of safety are constantly emphasized at CM. The following are general safety rules:
• Obey all warning and danger signs. • Do not throw objects. • Do not run in corridors. • Horseplay, fighting, wrestling, or childish behavior has no place at CM. • Report all injuries, no matter how slight, to your instructor. • If after 5 minutes, a teacher has not arrived for class, all students are to remain in the classroom and one student is to inform the main office. • If a teacher must leave the class in an emergency, and no directions are given, students should remain quietly in the room and remain seated. One student is to inform the main office. • Any student asked to leave class must immediately report to the office of their Vice Principal. If unavailable, the student must report to the guidance office. • All students, employees, and visitors to the science labs will be required to wear eye protective devices when labs are in session.
Athletics
Athletic Philosophy We view the athletic department as a true extension of the classroom. With that responsibility comes a heightened expectation to carry oneself with class and to make smart decisions both on and off our campus. Striving for excellence in everything we do will be a hallmark and foundation for our athletic department.
Student-Athlete Goals Our hope and focus for our athletes will always be to develop tremendous leaders. Three key components that we believe define that distinction are:
• Learn to effectively communicate with the many different factions of a school community.
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• Learn to deal with adversity in its many forms and in essence learn to compete when circumstances are not always ideal. • Learn to approach each day with a powerful work ethic. Allow that quality to strengthen your team and your school community as a whole.
If our athletes have a tremendous work ethic, are competitive in the face of adversity, and are effective communicators, then they will in essence be excellent leaders and spokesmen. Collectively these qualities will arm our student-athletes to handle and deal with adversity at CM and beyond.
Coach/Staff Expectations Our coaching staff will always be committed to the student-athlete first. We look for coaches who are hard workers and who possess outstanding character. Along with their excellent depth of knowledge, we expect them to be proactive communicators that have a talent for connecting with students. We need them to embrace and support CM’s philosophy and core values while realizing that the impact they have on our school community is profound.
Student-Athlete Expectations Participation on an athletic team is a rewarding experience which requires students to commit their time, energy, and spirit. For example: • Athletes must attend all practices, contests, and team meetings unless the coach excuses them before the absence. Some practices are held on Saturdays and Sundays at the discretion of the coach in cooperation with the Athletic Director. • Athletes are expected to be familiar with all school policies relating to participation in athletics which are printed in this Parent/Student Handbook. • Parents of athletes are encouraged to support their teams. Parents are also expected to exhibit proper conduct at practices and games.
Cut Sports Some sports must limit the number of participants on their teams and conduct tryouts during the opening days of the season to select their teams.
Middle School student athletes may be considered for acceleration to the next level of play in all sports according to the following guidelines:
• A student athlete must try out for his grade-level team. • A coach, in consultation with the Athletic Director, may accelerate a student to the next level team. • Student athletes may not accelerate until all teams at all levels have been determined. • All decisions regarding acceleration must be approved by the Athletic Director. • All requests for acceleration must be approved by the student’s parents/guardians before acceleration to the next level takes place.
Pre-Season Responsibilities Eligibility Any student placed on the Academically Ineligibility list at the conclusion of the 4th quarter will be ineligible to participate in extra-curricular activities the following Fall.
If placed on the Academic Ineligibility List, a student will be ineligible to participate in any interscholastic team or any school-sponsored club. A student will be placed on the Academic Ineligibility List if: o He fails two or more subjects. o He fails one subject and the average of all of his marks is less than 70%.
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o Eligibility will be determined by the quarter marks, not the Midterm or Final examination marks or semester averages. • A student on the Academic Ineligibility List must attend all after-school study periods. Failure to attend after school studies may result in suspension. • A student who fits one of the above criteria will become ineligible on the date report cards are scheduled to be issued. A student will be ineligible for a minimum of half the marking period at which point a student’s ineligible status may be reviewed. • According to MIAA standards, any student who fails to pass four major subject areas in a given quarter is ineligible until the next report card. This is our policy as well.
Any candidate for an athletic team must meet the following requirements: • A student must not be 19 years old on or before September 2nd of his Senior Year. Freshmen may not compete at the Freshman Level if they turn 16 before September 1. • Transfer students must check with the Athletic Director regarding eligibility. • Students must complete all financial responsibilities for equipment issued during the previous season. A “season” for a particular sport, ends with the final MIAA-sponsored tournament or event. • Students must register through FamilyID (link on our website) for the sport you intend to play. • Students must have on file an updated physical, concussion, chemical health, and helmet forms (if applicable) in the Nurse’s Office. • Students must turn in a signed Parent/Guardian permission form must be submitted to the Athletic Office.
Tryouts
• During the tryout period, each coach will describe his expectations for team members. • Athletes must demonstrate their ability to meet these expectations. • If an athlete is not selected for a team, he may contact the coach personally for an explanation. • Once a student has been selected for a team, he may not quit to join another team. • If an athlete is not selected for a team, he should explore participation in another sport.
Team Selection The coach and coaching staff for each sport has the sole responsibility for:
• Selecting players. • Deciding the appropriate level of play for each athlete. • Determining the amount of playing time for each athlete.
If an athlete has any questions about this process, he should ask the coach. If the matter is not resolved at this stage, parents may request a meeting with the coach. If the matter continues to be unresolved, parents may schedule a meeting with the Athletic Director. Participation in CM athletics is a privilege. All athletes are expected to provide leadership for other members of the student body, and to act in an exemplary manner that will do credit to the team, the school, and the community.
School Equipment and Responsibilities • Athletes are responsible for proper care and maintenance of all athletic equipment and uniforms issued to them. • Athletes will be charged replacement value for any equipment that is lost, stolen, or damaged. • All equipment must be returned within seven days of the end of the season. • Athletes may wear team uniforms only at times specified in specific team regulations.
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Physical Exam All students must pass a physical examination within 13 months before participating in a sport. Physical examinations must be performed and signed by a duly registered physician. An updated physical must be on file in the Nurse’s Office prior to the start of the first tryout or season practice and must remain in effect during the season.
Injuries If any injury or illness occurs during the season that requires medical attention, the student must have the attending physician provide a complete and clear note of clearance to the Athletic Trainer before the student may return to practice. This also applies to a player who was injured during a previous season.
Chemical Health All athletes are required, under MIAA Rule 62, to abstain from all drugs including tobacco and smokeless tobacco.
The Chemical Health Rule has been extended to be inclusive of the period from: the first allowable day of fall practice, through the end of the academic year or final athletic competition of the year, whichever is later. (Broadening the window from “in season” to the entire academic year reflects that chemical health of our students is not simply a seasonal concern.)
If there is reason to believe that a student has violated the drug policy, including exhibiting strange or disoriented behavior, that student will be tested and his parents billed for the cost of the testing. If the student refuses, he will be required to withdraw. If the test is found positive, the student will be subjected to formal discipline hearings with the discipline board, regardless of whether the drug use occurred on or off campus.
The possession or use of alcohol and other controlled substances (any drug other than the ones specifically prescribed for the student by his physician), or other substances which may be legal, but which are not used for their intended purpose, or are used with the intention of altering consciousness, are absolutely prohibited for CM students on the way to school, during school hours, on the way home from school, before, during, or after any school sponsored event such as a dance, prom, athletic event at the school or another location, field trip, overnight trip, etc.
Violation First Violation – When the Principal confirms, following the opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive interscholastic contests totaling at least 25% of all interscholastic contests in that sport. For the student, these penalties will be determined by the season the violation occurs. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program. It is recommended that the student be allowed to remain in practice for the purpose of rehabilitation. All decimal part of an event will be truncated i.e. all fractional part of an event will be dropped when calculating the 25% of the season.
Second & Subsequent Violations – When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive interscholastic contests totaling 60% of all interscholastic contests in the sport. For the student, these penalties will be determined by the season the violation occurs. All decimal part of an event will be truncated i.e. all fractional part of an event will be dropped when calculating the 60% of the season.
Steroid use The use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids at CM is strictly prohibited. It has been proven that steroid use has serious short and long term harmful effects. The use of steroids is considered to be cheating.
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We encourage our coaches to take a proactive role in teaching our athletes about the effects of steroids.
Cheering/Fan Behavior at All CM Events The CM community counts on good sportsmanship (poise and class) on the part of student participants and fans. We discourage all form of poor manners and bad sportsmanship.
Examples of Acceptable behavior include but are not limited to: • Cheer enthusiastically, positively, and in good taste. • Applaud any injured player after he receives attention for his injury. • Be respectful at all times of all people in attendance, whether at home or away.
Examples of Unacceptable behavior include but are not limited to: • Abusive language or gestures. • Sitting on the opponents’ side or carrying banners through the opponents’ side. • Applauding any injury to any player. • Cheering when cheerleaders are performing their cheer.
Transportation CM draws students from over 90 communities throughout the Greater Boston area and beyond all of whom commute to school every day. It is CM’s first priority to maintain the safety and security of our students whenever possible. The following are options for commuting to and from CM every day:
• CM Transportation o CM works with Local Motion Inc (a 3rd party vendor) to provide transportation services during the 2017-2018 school year. All routes and information are available via the CM website. • Public Transportation o The MBTA offers bus service to CM from the following locations: Ashmont Station, Forest Hills Station, Readville (Fire Station) Brighton, Newton, and Watertown. o From Forest Hills, the Charles River, Baker-Vermont and Stimson Street buses all service CM. These buses run every ten minutes from 7:50 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. o Supplementary bus service is available from Ashmont Station, Forest Hills, and Readville. Dedham: The Manor Bus runs to the Charles River (Spring Street, West Roxbury). Supplementary buses leave CM each afternoon at 2:30 p.m. and return to Ashmont, Readville, and Forest Hills. A regular bus run leaves Charles River at 2:32 p.m. and passes the school at 2:35 p.m. going to Watertown. o Any student who resides in the City of Boston and lives more than 2 miles from CM may be entitled to a free MBTA bus pass each month. o The 2 mile distance is determined by the Boston School Department. • Carpools o When possible, CM tries to facilitate carpools between families to ease the burden of commuting. If interested in establishing a carpool, contact your son’s Vice Principal. • Automobiles o Students who drive to school are required to park in the designated student parking area and to lock their cars. All cars must be registered at the Office of the Vice Principal. o The parking area in front of the school is reserved for school vehicles and visitors. The roadways are never to be used for parking.
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o No student is allowed to return to his car during the school day without permission from a teacher or administrator. o The speed limit on school property is 10 m.p.h. and it is strictly enforced. o All cars entering the main parking lot must use designated entrances and exits. o Students who violate the rules of the parking lot may forfeit the privilege of its use. o Any student reported driving recklessly to or from school will lose parking privileges.
Conduct on MBTA, Public Buses, School Buses, and Other School Vehicles Students are to be courteous and considerate when entering, riding on, and leaving on MBTA, public buses, school buses, and other school vehicles. Smoking on these vehicles is illegal and forbidden by CM. Even if the state does not take action, a serious breach of conduct may lead to disciplinary action by CM. All students are subject to school rules on MBTA, public buses, school buses, and other school vehicles. Actions which interfere with or threaten the safety of students and/or the driver constitute grounds for suspension or expulsion from CM.
Tuition and Fees School Tuition $19,700 Graduation Fee (Senior Only) $250 Registration Fee (New Student Only) $400 Tuition Insurance Fee (Payment Plans Only) $125 Bus Transportation Fee $950 (one way) $1,600 (round trip) A.P. Exam Fee (High School) Approximately $90 (price set by the College Board)
• The registration fee and deposit are non-refundable. The $1,000 non-refundable deposit will be credited to the tuition bill. • In order for a student to receive his schedule and start school in September, tuition must be current. Any student whose tuition is not current during the school year will be suspended from classes and all school activities until tuition is paid. • All tuition must be up to date in order for a student to take his midterm exams and/or final exams. • By May 1st, students intending to return to CM the following academic year must pay a $1,000 non-refundable deposit. Students failing to make a timely deposit will not be scheduled for the following year.
Refund Policy The withdrawal or dismissal of the student, whether as a result of accident, sickness, disciplinary action or otherwise does not relieve the parent of the responsibility for payment of the of the following tuition amounts as outlined:
• 25% of the tuition becomes non-refundable/payable on or after July 1st. • 50% of the tuition becomes non-refundable/payable on or after August 1st. • 100% of the tuition becomes non-refundable/payable on or after September 1st.
Enrollment All tuition payments will be managed by Smart Tuition. In order to be fully enrolled a student’s family must: • Visit www.enrollwithsmart.com and choose “Create a New Account for me.” Choose the school by searching for the school ID (13274). • Enter your family, student(s) and bank information (if electing the EFT option) and select a payment plan. CM continues to offer several convenient options for payment which are listed
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below. Further, each installment payment plan now carries a requirement to purchase the Tuition Refund Plan (the TRP) offered by A.W.G Dewar, Inc. The TRP is an effective way to insure your tuition obligation, and carries an annual fee of $125. For more information on the TRP, please see the tuition and financial aid page at www.CatholicMemorial.org. The payment options are: o Payment in Full: Pay the full amount of net tuition due by check, money order, EFT or credit card on or before June 30, 2017. Families selecting this option will receive a discount equal to 2% of the net tuition due. Payments received after June 30, 2017 will not be eligible for prepayment discount. o Two Payments: Pay the net tuition due in two equal installments by check, money order or EFT. Under this plan, 50% is due on or before June 30, 2017 and 50% is due on or before November 30, 2017. o Three Payments: Pay the net tuition due in three equal installments by check, money order or EFT. Under this plan, 1/3 is due on or before June 30, 2017, 1/3 is due on or before November 30, 2017 and 1/3 is due on or before March 30, 2018. o Ten Payments: Pay the net tuition due in ten equal installments by automatic withdrawals from your bank account, beginning in July 2017 and ending in April 2018. • Accept the terms and conditions presented by both Smart Tuition and the Catholic Memorial Enrollment Contract by clicking the appropriate boxes presented. A link to the 2017-2018 Enrollment Contract is available through your registration screen.
Appendix Anti-Harassment Policy CM is committed to maintaining a school environment free of harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Harassment by anyone, whether they are students, staff members, or volunteers, whether at school or at school- sponsored events is unlawful and is strictly prohibited. CM requires all individuals to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner with respect for their fellow employees, students, and all members of the CM community, and CM takes seriously all complaints about harassment.
I. Definition of Harassment Harassment includes communications such as gestures, jokes, comments, innuendoes, notes, display of pictures or symbols, communicated in any form, including orally, in writing, or electronically via the Internet, cell phones, text messaging or in any other way, that show disrespect to others based upon race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
What one person may consider acceptable behavior may reasonably be viewed as harassment by another person. Therefore, individuals should consider how their words and actions might reasonably be viewed by other individuals. It is also important for individuals to make it clear to others when a particular behavior or communication is unwelcome, intimidating, hostile, or offensive.
Sexual Harassment While all types of harassment are prohibited, sexual harassment requires particular attention. Sexual harassment includes sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
II. Harassment and Retaliation
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Persons who engage in harassment or retaliation may be subject to disciplinary actions, including, but not limited to, reprimand, suspension, termination/expulsion, or other sanctions as determined by the CM Administration.
III. Investigation Any individual who believes he or she has experienced, witnessed, or learned about the harassment of another person in the school environment should inform the Principal or Vice Principal as soon as possible. These persons are also available to discuss any concerns that you may have and to provide information to you about our policy on sexual harassment and our complaint process.
CM Administration will promptly investigate every complaint of harassment in a fair and expeditious manner. The investigation typically will include private interviews with the person complained about, the person filing the complaint, and those who observed the behavior. If the administration determines that harassment has occurred, it will take appropriate action to end the harassment and to ensure that it is not repeated. Confidentiality will be maintained to the highest extent possible.
Bullying and Cyber-Bullying It is the goal of CM to develop students into responsible citizens in the traditions of the Catholic Church and the Christian Brothers. To this end, CM’s bullying prevention and intervention program is designed with two overarching goals in mind: to foster mature behaviors in students which make behaviors of harassment undesirable and unacceptable in CM culture, and to identify behaviors which might lead to bullying before such behaviors manifest into incidents.
Bullying is strictly prohibited whether in or out of school. Bullying is defined as the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof directed at the victim that causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property, places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property, creates a hostile environment at school for the victim, infringes on the rights of the victim at school, or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
Cyber-bullying is defined as bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include but is not limited to electronic mail, internet communications, instant messaging, posting on social networking sites, or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying includes creating a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person, the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, or the distribution by electronic means or communication of messages that meets the definition of bullying above, whether distributed directly or creating a posting that may be accessed by one or more persons.
Hostile Environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive that it alters the conditions of a student’s education.
Retaliation against any person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying is strictly prohibited.
Measures Designed to Prevent Bullying Behavior Cultivating responsible student behavior is the foundation of CM’s anti-bullying program, and involves the collective efforts of all faculty, administration, staff, parents, students, contractors, and volunteers. The following preventative measures exist: (1) behavioral expectations set through student orientations for all grade levels; (2) on-going professional development periodically through the Massachusetts
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Aggression Reduction Center (MARC), Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators Association, Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association and other organizations; (3) a school-wide assembly on bullying; (4) a full day faculty staff, coach, and volunteer workshop; (5)parent workshops; (6) training for students enrolled in the student leadership program; (7) train-the-trainer workshops for faculty and staff; and (8) curriculum instruction on appropriate behavior in all disciplines.
Procedure for Reporting Bullying and Cyber-Bullying CM expects students, parents or guardians, and others who witness or become aware of an instance of Bullying or Retaliation involving a student to report it to the Principal or Vice Principal. Reports may be made anonymously, but no disciplinary action will be taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Students, parents or guardians, and others may request assistance from a staff member to complete a written report. Students will be provided practical, safe, private and age- appropriate ways to report and discuss an incident of Bullying with a Staff member, or with the Principal or Vice Principal. Any student who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action.
Investigation The Principal or Vice Principal will investigate promptly all reports of Bullying or Cyber-Bullying and, in doing so, will consider all available information known, including the nature of the allegation(s) and the ages of the students involved. During the investigation, the Principal or designee will, among other things, interview students, staff, witnesses, parents or guardians, and others as necessary. Interviews may be conducted by the Principal or Vice Principal, or his/her designee, and in consultation with the CM counselor, as appropriate. To the extent practicable, and given his/her obligation to investigate and address the matter, the Principal or Vice Principal will maintain confidentiality during the investigative process. The Principal or Vice Principal will maintain a written record of the investigation. Procedures for investigating reports of Bullying and Cyber-Bullying will be consistent with CM policies and procedures for investigations.
Discipline for Bullying, Cyber-Bullying and Retaliation Students who are found through investigation to have bullied, cyber-bullied or retaliated against a student who reported acts of bullying may be subject to disciplinary action. Discipline imposed, dependent on the nature and severity of the bullying, cyber-bullying or retaliation can range from a verbal warning to expulsion.
CM Administration will notify local law enforcement if it believes that criminal charges may be pursued.
Crisis Intervention Because the health and safety of our students is paramount, students who are struggling with a problem or potential problem involving the use of drugs or alcohol may invoke CM’s crisis intervention program. Under this program, students may contact any CM administrator, faculty, or staff member. Under this program, the student will not be held liable for disciplinary action. Rather, the student’s parents will be notified, the student will be placed on a no-use policy, be referred to an appropriate treatment program, and be placed on contract to ensure adherence to the program.
Emergency or Evacuation Drill A chart with exit route information is contained in each classroom. When a fire alarm signals, all classroom windows are to be closed and all students are to proceed immediately, in absolute silence, and in orderly lines along the route designated for each room of the building. The last student out of the classroom is to make sure that the classroom door is closed when he leaves the room. When the return signal is given, students will silently retrace their steps back into the building. Students who do not follow fire drill procedures are liable for suspension.
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Lockdown Procedure Follow directions as issued over the public address system.
Hazing To comply with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Sections 17-18, read the law below and acknowledge that you have read it by signing the Handbook Acknowledgement Form which will be provided at the beginning of the school year.
• Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. The term ''hazing'' as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action.
• Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
Policy on AIDS In keeping with our philosophy of Christian charity, we acknowledge that there is no moral distinction to be made in the face of terminal illness. We will, therefore, treat any person in the CM community suffering from such an illness with dignity and respect. That person will remain on faculty, on staff, or in the classroom so long as there is no threat to public health. In determining a threat to public health we may refer to appropriate standards set by recognized medical organizations, associations, and public health agencies including those established by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Policies and Procedures for those infected with HIV and/or diagnosed with ARC or AIDS Members of the CM community who test positive for HIV antibodies, or who are diagnosed with ARC or AIDS, should see to it that the CM Principal is informed. In the case of a student, the Principal will normally consult with the student’s parents and his physician. The Principal will assess the particular situation and initiate steps to support and ensure the continuance of the student’s educational program. These steps will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Need-to-know will be determined by the Principal in consultation with the parents and student. Otherwise, this information will remain confidential, and will not become part of the student’s regular health form. CM retains the right to reconsider the status of a student, an employee, or other member of the CM community, who has tested positive for HIV or has been diagnosed with ARC or AIDS and who, in the judgment of the Principal, fails to act in a responsible manner. All members of the CM community are expected, without exception, to respect the rights and dignity of those who are infected with HIV. Discrimination or attempts at discrimination because of unfounded fears of infection or other false understandings regarding the disease will not be tolerated.
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Prevention CM has implemented procedures for the handling of bodily fluids in order to prevent the transmission of HIV. Maintenance staff and cafeteria staff, especially, are to be familiar with these procedures. CM will provide education for its students regarding AIDS and its prevention in a manner that is grounded in the vision of Christian morality and the compassion of Christ.
Social Networking Guidelines for Students in Catholic Schools Social networking has revolutionized the way we communicate and share information with one another. Below are guidelines intended to help guide student social networking habits:
• Please be aware that words and images you post may be available for years, even if deleted. • Personal profiles should not indicate personal information that can be used to locate you, such as your full name, address, phone number and planned personal activities. • Don’t post information about yourself that you don’t want the whole world to know. Your profile may be viewed by future employers and school admissions officials, as well as identity thieves, spammers and stalkers. • Don’t post information about others, including all the cautions noted above. Pictures or images of other students should not be posted or tagged without their permission. • Be cautious about who you accept as a friend on your site. • Check what your friends are posting/saying about you. Even if you are careful, they might not be and they may be putting you at risk. • Be wary if a new online contact wants to meet you in person. Discuss with your parents/ guardians before you decide to meet. • If you feel threatened by someone or uncomfortable because of something online, tell an adult you trust. Bullying, harassment and defaming are unacceptable and reporting this type of conduct could help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.
Unacceptable behaviors must be promptly reported to the Principal or Vice Principal. Such unacceptable behavior includes:
• Refusing to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette as mentioned above. • Attempting to log on to the CM network or the Internet using a user ID/password other than your own. Sharing passwords or trespassing in other’s folders, work or files. • Sending a written comment or picture that is malicious regarding another student or individual. • Sending or receiving material in violation of any national, state, local, or Church regulation. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted, threatening, or obscene material. • Using the CM name or logo on personal websites. • CM discourages revealing personal information on the Internet and can make no guarantees of privacy or security when the user shares personal information on websites that are not secure. • Publishing information on the Internet that brings discredit to CM (whether on or off school premises). • Non-school related social contacts between faculty/staff and students. • Using the network in any way that will limit or disrupt network use or attempting to alter CM system settings or data. • Using the network for political or commercial purposes such as endorsing political candidates or selling items or services.
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the computers and Internet.
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Environmental Protection Agency Compliance In compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), in the spring of 1992 we performed inspections of our school buildings for asbestos-containing building materials. The inspection findings and asbestos management plans have been on file in the main office, in the high school building, since that time. These plans are available and accessible to the public.
The EPA requires us to perform re-inspections of the asbestos materials every three years. A representative of Covino Environmental Associates, hired by the Archdiocese of Boston, visited CM on May 31, 2016 to conduct the periodic visit required by our plan. The results of the re-inspection are on file in the management plan. All asbestos materials in CM are in good condition and CM will continue to manage them, as recommended by the management planner.
OFF CAMPUS Guidelines for Chaperones and Volunteer Chaperones • Before the trip please review all of the activities planned for the trip, expectations for supervising students, and emergency procedures. • The following general guidelines should help you perform your duties as a chaperone. If you have any questions regarding these guidelines, please contact the supervising staff member or the principal or program manager. • All CM school rules apply as well as the code of conduct for all staff. Chaperones are expected to comply with these policies, work cooperatively with other staff and volunteers, and model appropriate behaviors for students. • In order to comply with CM policy, during CM-sponsored events, chaperones: o may not use, sell, provide, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol o may not use tobacco in the presence of, or within the sight of, students o may not possess any weapon o may not administer any medications, prescription or nonprescription, to students • Students must be supervised at all times while at CM-sponsored event. • As a chaperone, you will supervise a small group of students, and ensure they behave appropriately. Students must stay with you, their chaperone, at all times. Go over use of the buddy system with students under your care. • Account for all participants regularly and before changing activities. Chaperones must be readily available, be mindful of safety concerns, and respond to students’ needs. • Student behavior is your responsibility. School rules related to student behavior apply. Go over rules and standards of behavior, safety rules, and any site specific rules with students. • Ensure that students do not get involved in extra activities not pre-approved by administrators and parents. • For the protection of both the student and the chaperone, chaperones should not place themselves in situations in which they are alone with a student. • Be sure to know what to do in an emergency (medical emergency, natural emergency, lost child, serious breach of rule, etc.). Know who is first aid trained, where the first aid kit is, and who has the copies of parental permission slips with emergency phone numbers and medical information.
Student Behavior Agreement Any student participating in a trip sponsored by CM should be aware of his role as a representative of CM, his family, himself and in some cases, the United States. The CM policies governing student behavior are in effect for the entire trip and students are asked to review the Parent/Student Handbook where those rules are defined. Students need to honor the expectations, rules and policies set out within, as well as students need to recognize that the teachers/group leaders, chaperones, and hosts are responsible for their
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Students are required to participate in and be punctual to all activities planned for the group unless specifically excused from such activity by the group leaders.
All students must be especially cognizant of the following:
• Smoking is prohibited. Violation will result in disciplinary consequences. • Any student involved in any way with alcohol or other illegal drugs will be sent home. Parents will be notified and transportation arrangements will be made; all transportation costs will be the responsibility of the parents. The Principal will determine disciplinary consequences. • If a student engages in an action which results in the expulsion of the group from the conference, service site, tournament and/or hotel, the student and his parents will be responsible for financial reimbursement to the group members for any lost or additional conference, hotel, and/or transportation costs. CM will determine such reimbursements. The Principal will determine disciplinary consequences. • Theft or vandalism of any kind is unacceptable. If the hotel assesses damages to a hotel room, such costs will be the responsibility of the students occupying that room. Students may be sent home, at parents’ expense. The Principal will determine disciplinary consequences. • Students are never to be in the hotel room of persons of the opposite gender, day or night. Violation may result in the student being sent home, at parent’s cost, and/or other disciplinary consequences. • Curfews will be strictly enforced. Students must be in their own rooms by designated times. • Students are never to leave the hotel or other venues without the permission of the sponsor. No one will be allowed to leave with other family or friends without the prior written consent of the parent. • Noise must be kept to a minimum at all times, out of deference to other guests. Behavior at all times on the trip should reflect well on the student and CM. • I understand that I am to abide by all rules and policies of CM and the attendant sponsors while on a school-sponsored trip. I understand that I am not to leave my hotel room, the hotel premises, or the activity premises without the permission of the sponsor. I am also bound by the above stated rules. If I do not abide by these rules, I understand that I may be removed from my leadership position, the team, or school club; and that I may not be allowed to participate in off- campus school activities for one full year; and there may be other disciplinary consequences. In addition, my parents may be notified and I may be sent home at my parent’s expense.
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