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PARENT – STUDENT HANDBOOK
“Christian education is intended to make people’s faith become living and conscious and active, through the light of instruction. The Catholic school is the unique setting within which this ideal can be realized in the lives of Catholic children and young people.” (To Teach as Jesus Did, # 102, U.S. Catholic Bishops, 1977)
MISSION OF SANTA CRUZ CATHOLIC SCHOOL
The mission of Santa Cruz Catholic School is to teach students to love God, self and others, serve as a Christian community, and develop to their full potential.
GOAL STATEMENTS
As an extension of the teaching mission of the Catholic Church, Santa Cruz Catholic School aims to:
· Partner with families in guiding the development of their children;
· Address all aspects of student learning potential, respecting their varied learning styles and individual differences;
· Lead students to respect all of creation as stewards of God’s gifts;
· Lead students to understand and contribute toward a peaceful and just society in the light of Christian values;
· Provide a school climate characterized by active faith, Christian virtue, a loving community and service to the poor and vulnerable;
· Engage the school community in the life of the local parish;
· Provide qualified school staff, committed to the educational mission of the Catholic Church and to high academic standards.
INTRODUCTION
Santa CruzSchool is a Preschool through Grade 8 Catholic school under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Tucson and Santa Cruz Parish, Tucson,AZ. The school is staffed by lay teachers and by the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity of Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Santa Cruz School is accredited by the Western Catholic Accreditation Association and is a member of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD).
The history of Santa CruzSchool began in 1916 with the founding of Santa Cruz Parish by Bishop Henry Granjon of the Diocese of Tucson. The church was dedicated in 1919 and school, facing 22ndSt., officially opened in 1920. The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary had been contracted by the Carmelites of Arizona to direct the school. They remained at the school until 1954. In the years following, the school was served by various congregations of women religious: the Sisters of the Holy Cross; the Mercy Sisters; the Adrian Dominicans; the Sisters of St. Agnes; the Franciscan Sisters of Charity of Manitowoc, WI, beginning in school year 2004-2005. In addition, since 1987, Santa CruzSchool has been served by a faithful core of lay staff and administrators. Santa CruzSchool is associated with Notre DameUniversity’s Alliance for Catholic Education program, which trains and places teachers in select Catholic schools.
In 1947 a new four room school building was constructed at the cost of $55,000. In 1954, four additional classrooms were added. The sisters originally lived on properties close to the parish. In 1954 a convent was built for the sisters. Today, the former convent houses the school’s preschool, kindergarten and library.
Santa CruzSchool has a long and rich history, beginning with its founding by the Discalced Carmelite Fathers of Arizona. The school offers its students a faith-filled community tradition, building upon the dedicated support of the Carmelite fathers and brothers, generations of Santa Cruz Parish members, the generous services of a committed professional and support staff, and the commitment of school families, past and present.
SCHOOL-WIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS
School-wide Learning Expectations (SLEs) are goal statements aimed at defining the qualities which should characterize graduates of Santa Cruz Catholic School. They are derived from the school’s mission and goal statements, which speak of guiding student growth in their faith life as well as in becoming responsible and caring members of the world community, developing to their full potential.
Significant aspects of the SLE process include:
· Creating an awareness of the SLEs within the total school community: students; school staff; parents/guardians; school stakeholders.
· The development and application of an assessment rubric to measure each individual student’s growth in reaching the SLE goals from year to year.
· Involving students, teachers and parents/guardians in assessing student progress in achieving the SLE goals.
SANTA CRUZ CATHOLIC SCHOOL SCHOOL-WIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS
A graduate of Santa CruzCatholicSchool is:
an Active Person of Faith who: · understands and courageously practices the teachings of the Catholic Church in daily life; · actively participates in communal prayer (spontaneous and memorized), especially in liturgical celebrations; · receives the sacraments regularly; · understands that God creates life, therefore respects the uniqueness and dignity of all life; · is committed to working towards justice and peace.
a Complex Thinker who: · utilizes prior experiences and knowledge as a basis for new learning; · researches new topics by effectively integrating information from a variety of media and resources; · utilizes a wide variety of thinking processes to resolve complex issues; · demonstrates empathy for others.
a Quality Producer who: · demonstrates mastery of learning outcomes defined in the Diocese of Tucson Curriculum Guides; · projects a “can-do” attitude in daily tasks and life-long learning; · sets realistic goals and meets them; · evaluates own products for high standards and takes pride in one’s work;
a Responsible Citizen who: · contributes positively to our community by consistently demonstrating the self-discipline skills espoused by the school; · is cognizant of current events, world affairs, and history, as well as their effect on life; · participates in service to the school and broader community; · appreciates and respects cultural diversity.
an Effective Communicator who: · uses verbal and written skills to articulate ideas clearly and correctly; · listens actively and respectfully; · appropriately expresses emotions and feelings in order to solve problems; · works cooperatively with others to obtain goals.
a Holistic Person who: · shows respect for self, others, and the environment; · displays knowledge of various athletic activities and exhibits good sportsmanship; · understands that physical fitness, nutrition, personal hygiene, and absence of high risk behaviors contribute to a healthy life style; · engages respectfully as a participant and audience in a wide variety of fine arts experiences.
Revised School Year 2007-2008 PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Santa CruzCatholicSchool recognizes that the parents are the primary educators of their children and that the school is privileged to join with them in co-partnership for the education of children. The school depends on family support and cooperation and encourages active parental participation in the accomplishment of this joint ministry.
It is important that the parents give leadership to their children by living their Catholic faith. Presence at weekend Mass, as a family, should be the foundation of their relationship with God and each other. Children learn from example more than from words. Children must never be forced to practice a faith that parents and Catholic educators are unwilling to practice themselves. Parents are the first teachers of their children in the area of faith.
Parents have certain responsibilities that they are required to fulfill as part of the Santa CruzCatholicSchool community. Failure in fulfilling these responsibilities can result in the student’s education being compromised.
TUITION AND FEES
Tuition fees can either be paid completely before school begins (a 5% discount on tuition if paid by June 1) or paid by monthly installments through the tuition management company, FACTS. Payments can be divided into 12 installments if they begin in June or 10 installments if they begin in August. The tuition management company charges a one-time yearly fee per contract with them, usually one per family. The payments are automatically withdrawn from a bank account. Parents may choose to have the payment either withdrawn on the 5th or the 20th of the month. The tuition management company charges a penalty fee for each time they are unable to withdraw the money from the account.
An annual per child registration and book fee is due at the time of registration.
It is the responsibility of the parents to contact the school if there is difficulty in fulfilling their financial obligation to the school. This can help avoid extra fees. Financial assistance is available for families who apply. Applications are required along with proof of income. The following criteria is considered when awarding tuition assistance:
Notices are regularly sent to parents/guardians who are not current in their financial obligations. If a family is experiencing financial hardship, causing financial obligations to be overdue, parents/guardians are asked to contact the school administration to discuss their situation. Every effort will be made on the part of the administration to accommodate families’ financial situations. Failure to make this contact and/or failure to respond to notices sent from the school may result in students’ not being able to continue at Santa Cruz School until the matter has been resolved. At the end of each school year, there is a review of each account. If there is outstanding money owed to the school, the parent will be notified in writing. Failure to contact the school may result in the student(s) not being allowed to return to school and/or the account being turned over to a collection agency. If there is an outstanding balance for any financial obligation to the school, including money owed due to failure to meet other parental obligations, when a student leaves Santa CruzCatholicSchool, the school reserves the right to not forward transcripts except health records, as required by law.
CARE OF MATERIALS
Each child is responsible for the care of school books, materials and property belonging to the school. Restitution must be made by students for any damage caused by them to school books, materials and property. The nature of the restitution will be determined by the principal.
PARENT PARTICIPATION HOURS
All families are required to give a minimum number of service hours to the school per contract. Families who are awarded tuition aid are required to give additional volunteer hours. Active participation is a sign of support that is deeply felt by students, faculty, and staff alike. Only adults may fulfill these hours. Failure to complete those hours will be reflected on the final bill of the school year. Families not completing their hours will be charged a predetermined rate per hour. Families are responsible for logging and turning in their own hours. Quarterly reports are given to families.
The following are specific qualifying activities:
· Serving on school committees. · Serving as a room parent to assist the teacher in organizing classroom celebrations, field trips, performances, bake sales and other school functions. · Assisting the teacher with classroom clerical duties. · Serving as a volunteer Teacher Assistant, Playground Monitor, Cafeteria Monitor or Helper, Parking Lot Monitor, Tutor, Library or an Office or Nurse Assistant. · Being a caller on the Santa Cruz Catholic School phone tree. · Preparing classroom materials at school and/or home. · Helping with school fundraisers: distributing and monitoring. · Helping in cleaning, repairing or remodeling school buildings and grounds. · Sharing talents, knowledge, and expertise with the school. · Donating or getting donations that are beneficial for the school or classrooms. No credit will be given for throw away items. · Assisting with the after-school sports program: coaching, refereeing, driving, or working snack bar (no credit for watching games). · Attending meetings. · Attending school functions.
Activities are not limited to the above mentioned but the activities below will not be considered: · Attending Mass. · Donating throw-away items. · Donating items for birthdays.
Any adults who serve in a volunteer capacity in which they may have independent access to children must meet the child safety criteria as described by the school’s safe environment policies. These requirements are communicated to families each school year.
FUNDRAISING
All families who do not pay full tuition (Per Pupil Cost) are required to do a minimal amount of fundraising as specified in the contract. Families choosing to not participate in fundraising are required to pay the required amount as stated in the contract. Families who pay the full Per Pupil Cost are not required to participate in fundraising.
OBLIGATIONS TO SANTA CRUZ PARISH
Because Santa Cruz Parish helps support the school, all school families are required to participate in the church’s annual fundraiser, The Fiesta de la Familia. Families are required per contract to sell raffle tickets and work a specified number of hours at the Fiesta. If families fail to fulfill this obligation they are charged accordingly per contract.
CONFERENCE WITH TEACHERS
Santa Cruz Catholic School respects and values the parents’/guardians’ role in the education of their children. Conferences are a valuable means of communication, whether in person, by phone or in writing. Parents/Guardians are strongly encouraged to attend scheduled conferences to be informed of the progress of their children in more detail than the quarterly Report Card. Informal conferences should take place when needed. It is recommended that parents/guardians communicate with the school when: · Your child does not wish to attend school. · Your child voices fears or concerns about the school. · Your child is experiencing a traumatic event in his/her life. · You believe that your child is not being appropriately challenged. · You believe that your child is not safe either physically or mentally. · Your child is not achieving to his/her potential or to your expectations. · You see things that can be improved and ways to accomplish the improvement. · You don’t fully understand. · You see something wonderful happening.
Parental concerns should be brought to attention of the teacher by making an appointment for a time that is convenient in terms of the teacher’s classroom responsibilities.
ESSENTIALS FOR LEARNING
In support of Santa CruzSchool’s mission to provide an environment where all students can develop to their full potential, it is critical that students be provided by parents/guardians, with the following essentials for learning:
· Regular and consistent attendance at school · Being on time each school day · Behavior that is conducive to learning · Ten hours of sleep each night · Three nutritional meals daily (breakfast should not be ignored) · Dressed comfortably and appropriately Wear the school’s uniform Dress for the weather Dress for safety Dress to contribute to the educational environment · Prepared with materials, supplies and homework · Good health · Free from fear, both physically and mentally
ACADEMICS
CURRICULUM
Santa CruzSchool follows the curriculum guidelines of the Diocese of Tucson, which require specific courses, time allotments and instructional material set by the Department of Catholic Schools, the Arizona State Department of Public Instruction and the Western Catholic Education Association.
“The primary goal of the program of instruction in the schools of the Diocese of Tucson is to provide learning experiences which most effectively inculcate worthwhile attitudes and impart knowledge and skills necessary for the spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical development of the student.” (# 4200, Handbook of School Policies and Procedures, Diocese of Tucson)
SCHOOL SCHEDULE
The school year includes 180 instructional days for students. On regular school days classes begin at 8:00 AM and students are dismissed at 3:00 PM. Throughout the school year, on Tuesdays, usually, early dismissal days occur, with dismissal at 12:30 PM. Minimum days are scheduled so as to provide professional development and planning opportunities for teachers. Minimum days are listed on the school yearly calendar, which is sent home to families at the beginning of the school year, and on the monthly calendar which is sent home.
GRADING SYSTEM
Santa CruzSchool follows the grading system and report cards as provided by the Diocese of Tucson Department of Catholic Schools. Report cards are issued four times per year. Copies of each grade’s report card, with the grading standards applied at each grade level, can be found in the Appendix of this handbook.
HOMEWORK
Santa CruzSchool follows the recommendations of the Diocese of Tucson Department of Catholic Schools regarding homework policies. The Handbook of School Policies and Procedures, Diocese of Tucson, (#4200-F) states: Homework is an integral part of the school’s instructional program. It is intended to reinforce learning and to foster habits of independent study. While students’ abilities and concentration will vary, general suggested time allotments for homework in elementary school are as follows: K – 3 Grades 15 – 30 minutes per day 4 – 6 Grades 30 – 60 minutes per day 7 – 8 Grades 60 – 90 minutes per day
STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTS
Santa CruzSchool respects and values the parents’/guardians’ role in the education of their children. Conferences are a valuable means of communication, whether in person, by phone, or in writing. The school provides the following:
· Report Cards issued four times per year · Parent Teacher Conferences – parents/guardians are required to attend the scheduled conferences · Interim reports issued to students needing improvement · Regular letters sent home by each classroom teacher · Phone or written note contacts made by teachers to parents/guardians as needed
Parents/guardians are welcome to contact teachers whenever they have questions or concerns regarding their child. These contacts should be made outside of the teacher’s classroom or school duty times, preferably by appointment if the need warrants a significant amount of time.
PROMOTION / RETENTION
Santa CruzSchool follows the Promotion and Retention policy of the Diocese of Tucson, Department of Catholic Schools. This policy can be found in the Appendix of this handbook.
Academic Probation
The goal of Santa CruzSchool is that all students succeed. A student who is not displaying the necessary effort to be successful may be placed on academic probation after the teacher(s) and administrator agree that this is best for the student. The parent/guardian will be notified in writing of the academic probation, how the student can be removed from academic probation, the length of time of the probation, and the consequences if the students fails to get removed from academic probation in the specified time. Consequence may be moving back one grade level, retention, or requesting the student to withdraw from the school.
Retention, Placement, and Summer School
Summer school is suggested when a student receives 2 D’s in a subject or 1 F ( or equivalent grades) in a subject.
Summer school is required when a student receives 3 D’s in a subject, 2 D’s and 1 F in a subject or 2 F’s in a subject (or equivalent grades).
The student’s status is an Incomplete in those subjects until the documentation of the successful completion of summer school is provided. The Incomplete at that time will be changed to either a Pass or Fail. When summer school is required, documentation must be provided to the school before the student is allowed to enroll in the next grade for the following year. Without documentation of successfully completing summer school, the student may be retained in the previous grade. If a student fails summer school, the student may be retained in the previous grade.
AWARDS PROGRAM
Santa CruzSchool presents the following awards to students on a quarterly basis:
· Principal’s Award for Excellence - Given to the class that displays the best overall spirit of school cooperation for that quarter.
· Outstanding Effort/Outstanding Conduct – given to students whose conduct and effort reflect excellence.
· Spirit of Santa Cruz Award – given to one student from each grade who best reflects the Christian spirit of Santa CruzCatholicSchool.
· Handwriting Award – Given to one student from each grade who exhibits consistent pride in their work through neat and correct cursive handwriting and/or printing.
· Fine Arts Award – given in Music and Art to one student in each grade who exhibits excellence in interest and in their positive contribution in these classes.
· Perfect Attendance Award – given to each student who is not tardy, absent, or dismissed early, that is, is present for complete days for the full quarter.
· Academic Honor Roll (Grades 4-8 only)
o High Honors: given to each student who meets the following criteria: - 3.5 – 4.0 GPA in academic subjects - averages 1-2 in conduct and effort - has no academic grade on Progress Report below a C-
o Honors: given to each student who meets the following criteria:
- 3.0 – 3.4 GPA in academic subjects - averages 1-2 in conduct and effort - has no academic grade on Progress report below a C-
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Students are required to furnish their own regular school supplies throughout the school year. A supply list for each grade is available at the beginning of each school year. Students are expected to have these “tools” ready at all times, e.g., pencils, pens, paper, ruler, pencil case, book bags, glue, assignment notebook (Grades 3-8), etc.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips may be scheduled by classroom teachers throughout the school year. These trips will have an educational purpose, are a part of the curriculum, and, therefore, students will be responsible for completing any school work related to the field trip.
Parents/guardians will receive notification of field trips through the Diocese of Tucson Field Trip Permission Forms requiring their signature. Students will not be allowed to take part in the field trip unless this official form is signed by a parent/guardian and returned to school in advance of the trip. Telephone calls and/or handwritten notes will not be accepted in lieu of the official form, due to legal liability.
Field trips are privileges, and the school retains the right to withhold a student from participating. This decision is made by the principal, in consultation with the teacher(s) involved. Parents/guardians retain the right to withhold permission for their children to participate in field trips.
When parents/guardians are invited to provide transportation for field trips, they must have the following on file at the school office: · valid driver’s license · record of current car insurance · documentation showing they meet the Diocese of Tucson child safety requirements regarding fingerprinting and background check for school volunteers.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
Students enrolled in Santa Cruz Catholic School have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities as they are offered by Santa Cruz:
ADMISSIONS AND TRANSFERS
ADMISSION AND REGISTRATION
Santa CruzSchool is open to students who sincerely seek a religiously oriented education. Because every Catholic child has a right to religious instruction and formation in the Catholic faith, preference shall be given to Catholic students. Students will not be refused admission to Catholic schools based on gender, race, color, or ethnic origin.
No person shall be admitted as a student unless that person and the parents/guardian subscribe to the school’s philosophy and agree to abide by the educational policies and regulations of the school and the Diocese of Tucson.
Catholic and non-Catholic students must agree to attend religious classes and the religious activities conducted by the school.
A student entering kindergarten must be five (5) years of age prior to September 1st of that school year. A student entering the first grade must be six (6) years of age prior to September 1st of that school year. Students must be at least four (4) years of age and toilet trained to be admitted to the pre-school in keeping with age requirements.
Registrations are held each year for returning students. In providing for the admission of new students, the following criteria is observed in the order listed:
1. returning students and their siblings 2. members of Santa Cruz Parish 3. Catholics 4. others in the order they are placed on the waiting list
Returning students and their siblings are given priority until the registration deadline date set by the administration. After that deadline, if they have not registered, new students may be admitted in their place.
Parents/guardians must complete all registration papers in order for their child’s admission to be finalized.
All new families must be interviewed by the administration. Prior to admission of new students, families must submit copies of their child’s: ·birth certificate ·immunization records with up to date immunizations ·social security number ·current physical report ·baptismal and First Communion certificates if applicable
When student qualifications are in question, appropriate evaluation shall be done, and, after conferencing with parents/guardians, the administrator shall make the final determination regarding admission. All new students will serve a probationary period. Except in unusual circumstances, students who choose, are asked, or have been required to leave Santa CruzSchool will not be re-admitted.
TRANSFER PROCEDURES
Parents/guardians should notify the school office at least one week prior to the child’s last day of school. The student must return all books and any other school materials in good condition.
All school fees and tuition must be paid up to date. Transcripts may be held when there is an unpaid balance.
Upon written request from the parents/guardian, Santa CruzSchool will release a copy of the official records to another school in which the student intends to enroll.
ATTENDANCE
Arizona law provides for compulsory school attendance of all children between the ages of six (6) and sixteen (16) years (A.R.S., 15-802). The responsibility for compliance with this law belongs to the parents or the person who has custody of the child. (Handbook of School Policies and Procedures, Diocese of Tucson, # 2130)
ABSENCES
Parents/guardians must notify the school if their child is to be absent. In the event the school has not been notified of a student’s absence, the school office will attempt to contact parents/guardians within two hours of the first class in which the student is absent. If the school is not contacted by parents/guardians and is unable to make contact, the student’s absence will be considered unexcused and possibly truant.Parents/guardians are required to give an explanation for absences and tardiness.
If parents know in advance that a student will be absent, they should notify the teacher in a timely fashion. It is left to the discretion of the teacher as to how and if work is to be made up.
A child is considered one full day absent if he/she misses 3/4 of a school day. A child is considered 1/2 day absent if he/she misses 1/2 of either the morning or afternoon session.
Students may be penalized for excessive absenteeism (10% of the required number of attendance days) to include detention and/or reduction in the student’s academic grade and/or failure to pass a grade.
TARDINESS
School begins promptly at 8:00 AM. All students who are tardy must be brought to the office by a parent/guardian in order for the student to be admitted to the classroom. Students may be penalized for excessive tardiness.
LEGAL NOTIFICATION
The school reserves the right to contact law enforcement officials in cases of children's excessive absenteeism or tardiness.
POLICY: Santa CruzCatholicSchool – Approved by the Santa Cruz School Board, Oct. 12, 2004 RE: Tardiness
If a student has (3) unexcused tardies or one (1) hour unexcused tardy within a school quarter, the following will be required: · Parents/guardians will be required to give one additional hour of volunteer service to the school or a $10.00 payment to the school, due within two weeks of the beginning of the next quarter. If the tardiness occurs during the last quarter of the school year, the hour of service or $10.00 is due by the last day of school. Student report cards may be withheld until the requirement is met. · The hour of service or $10.00 will be required each time the three unexcused tardies or one hour unexcused tardy is repeated within a given quarter. · Children will be held accountable for time/schoolwork missed due to tardiness, whether excused or unexcused.
Unexcused tardy refers to reasons that could reasonably be controlled by parents/guardians on a normal basis. Examples of unexcused tardy reasons may be, but are not limited to: oversleeping; late start; slow moving children or parents/guardians; lost track of time; no reason given; etc.
Examples of excused tardy reasons may be, but are not limited to: family illness; traffic holdup (if not on a consistent basis); car trouble; doctor’s appointments; etc.
Determination of an excused or unexcused tardy will be decided by the principal, in consultation with parents/guardians.
If a child is tardy, the parent/guardian is required to accompany the child to the school office to sign a tardy slip. Failure by parent/guardian to do this will result in the tardiness being considered unexcused.
The principal may request a conference with parents/guardian if tardiness is habitual, even after consequences are imposed.
TRUANCY
A student who is truant will be expected to make up the school time missed. The make-up time will be set by the principal in consultation with parents/guardian.
A student who is considered to be a habitual truant may be subject to dismissal or adjudication. “Habitual truant” as defined by state law means a child who is truant (unexcused absences) for 5 school days within a school year. (A.R.S., 15-803C.)
The statement of State of Arizona statutes regarding school truancy can be found in the Appendix of this Handbook.
EARLY DEPARTURE PROCEDURES
If there is a need for a student to leave school during the scheduled school day, a note should be sent or a phone call made to the school office, stating the date, time of day, and reason for the dismissal. Unexpected or emergency early departures will be handled as the need arises.
At the time of registration, each parent/guardian is required to supply the school office with a list of adults who are designated to pick up their child. A child being dismissed early must be picked up at the school office by the parent/guardian or adult designated to sign the child out. An early dismissal slip is given to the teacher. No child may be dismissed from a classroom except to authorized school personnel. If a child returns to school before the end of the school day, he/she reports to the office to obtain a slip for re-admittance to class. Failure to comply with this policy will result in the student being recorded as truant.
RECORDS
All absences and tardies are recorded in the school office and in the classrooms. Attendance records of each student are part of the student’s permanent record.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline at Santa Cruz School is based on the school’s mission to teach students to love God, self and others, to serve, and to develop to their full potential. In the spirit of this mission, the school aims to lead children to accept responsibility for their actions, make sound social and moral choices and grow to be caring and self-disciplined Christian individuals. It is understood that children need to be self-motivated to reach their full potential, and leading them to self-motivation is recognized as a goal of the school. Partnership between school and home is an essential component of achieving these goals.
Santa Cruz School discipline policies and procedures are intended to support and enhance the school’s Student Learning Expectations by guiding students in the development of the following skills: · Showing respect · Listening · Following directions and school rules · Positive social interaction · Cooperation · Organization · Peaceful problem solving and conflict resolution · Christian service · Sharing · Positively influencing the learning environment
SERIOUS DISCIPLINE VIOLATIONS
Serious discipline violations resulting in immediate action and an adult-imposed consequence are:
1. Physical/Psychological Danger
2. Severe Disrespect/Abusive
3. Out of Control/Unreasonable
Possible Consequences for Serious Violations
DUE PROCESS
Students who have received severe disciplinary measures (i.e. suspension/expulsion) have the right to due process. This is a legal safeguard that protects the rights of students and their parents and is Constitutionally guaranteed. If a parent/guardian wishes to appeal a decision made by the school administration, they must follow the Diocese of Tucson Due Process Policy and procedures. A copy of this policy and procedures can be found in the Appendix of the Handbook.
CLASSROOM RULES
Each classroom establishes its individual classroom rules. The rules and the discipline plan (consequences in a progressive fashion) for each classroom are written and communicated to students and parents.
STUDENT OUT OF SCHOOL BEHAVIOR
Students are expected to uphold school behavior standards at all times while on school grounds and while attending school sponsored and related activities off of the school grounds. Serious, negative behavior engaged in outside of school hours, even apart from school related activities, could jeopardize the child’s enrollment in the school.
PARENTAL BEHAVIOR
Normally a child is not to be deprived of a Catholic education or otherwise penalized for actions of parents/guardians. However, if parents/guardians significantly reduce the school’s ability to effectively serve its students, the parents/guardians may be requested to remove their child/ren from school for any of the following reasons: · refusal to cooperate with school personnel · refusal to adhere to the diocesan or local policies and regulations · interference in matters of school administration or discipline
In such cases, reasonable efforts to elicit the minimum parental cooperation shall be made and documented. In the event the parent/guardian has caused a serious disruption, the parent/guardian may be restricted from being present on the school premises or attending school activities. If such effort does not correct the situation, then, after consultation with the pastor and the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, the principal may recommend to the parents that the family withdraw their children.
Documentation signed by the principal and the parent/guardian, as well as any other information or evidence of consultation with parent/guardian on the matter, must be retained on file. If the parent/guardian refuses to accept the recommended withdrawal, the procedures for expulsion, may be followed.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
CLOSED CAMPUS
Santa CruzSchool is a closed campus. Students are not allowed to come and go without parent or responsible parties. Students are not allowed to leave the school premises during school hours unless a written notice from a parent or guardian is presented to the school office. This policy applies from the time the student arrives at school until he/she is picked up by car or leaves for home by other designated means. If a student is due to remain at school for a school sponsored after school activity, this policy applies until that activity is over and the student is authorized to leave. All comings and goings are recorded and regulated.
Parents or visitors do not have open access to classrooms, buildings and/or playgrounds. All parents and visitors must check in at the school office before going to any other area of the school complex, including playgrounds, at any time.
PICKING UP AND DROPPING OFF OF STUDENTS
Students must be picked up and dropped off at the gate that separates the school yard from the church parking lot. Students are to be dropped off only in the church parking lot. The 7th Ave. or 22nd St. entrances MAY NOT be used. Neither of these entrances is monitored.
Vehicles should never be driven through or on the paved area directly north of the main building.
It is important for students’ safety that parents and students follow the directions of the parking lot monitors and stay within the marked areas as designated. All drivers must use extreme caution and courtesy when in the parking lot for the sake of their own and all students’ safety. Failure to properly control vehicles, take proper precautions, or follow the directives of the parking lot monitor may result in legal action.
Students are monitored 15 minutes before school begins and 15 minutes after school dismisses. Students who have not yet been picked up at 3:15 (12:45 on early dismissal days) are brought into the building to wait at the office area for their rides. In this event, the person picking them up must come into the building to get them. Students are not allowed to wait outside without supervision. Supervision times should be taken into account when students are dropped off and picked up. Students should never be at school earlier or later than these times without an adult acknowledging specifically that they will take responsibility for monitoring the safety of that student.
PARKING
Parents and visitors are requested to park in the Santa Cruz church parking lot. Vehicles are not permitted in the paved area directly north of the main building. The school reserves the right to have any vehicle towed that is parked in this area.
CUSTODY
Separated or divorced parents/guardians must inform and provide documentation to the school office if they have full custody and if there are limited rights for the other parent. If this is not provided, both parents have equal rights pertaining to their child at the school.
INJURY OR ILLNESS
Students who come to school should be well enough to learn. Students should also be able to come to school without undue reason to exposing themselves to contagious illnesses. Students should not come to school if they are: · Running a fever · Vomiting · Contagious
Parents/guardians will be notified if their child is: · Running a fever of 100 degrees or higher · Vomiting · Contagious · Suspected of being contagious · Injured seriously, always when there is a head injury In most cases these children will be sent home. In extreme instances, 911 will be called.
Santa Cruz Schools follows the State of Arizona’s laws for the immunization of students. Students are required to have up to date immunizations and a copy of that record on file at the school. The school does regular health screening of all students, such as hearing, vision and physical measurements per Arizona law. In the event of a very serious health situation, 911 will be called immediately and then a parent/guardian will be called immediately thereafter. In less serious health situations, a parent/guardian will be the one immediately called. The school personnel will follow the parent/guardian directives.
MEDICATION
Any student who absolutely must take medication at school must follow these guidelines: · Only prescription medication is allowed to be dispensed and must be in the original container provided by the pharmacy. No over the counter medication will be administered unless accompanied by a doctor and parent/guardian written permission. This includes cough drops. · Students may not have any medication on their person. · Parents must sign the official school release from in order for the school to dispense medication. · Parents may come to school and give their child medication if it is necessary, short term, and/or does not have a negative effect on the child’s instruction and learning.
SEARCHES
The principal, pastor, or a representative of the Department of Catholic Schools may conduct a search of the school plant and every aperture thereof, including lockers and desks. A student assigned to a locker or desk has use of, but not proprietary right to the locker or desk. Lockers and desks are school property. Schools can search personal property if the search is (1) justified at its inception, i.e., reasonable belief that the student has broken a school rule, and (2) the search is reasonable in scope. The search is made in the presence of at least two school officials. (Handbook of School Policies and Procedures, Diocese of Tucson, # 2270) Santa CruzSchool reserves the right to conduct searches in compliance with this policy.
Students should not bring valuables to school. The school is not responsible for lost or missing articles.
CHILD ABUSE
Arizona law (ARS 13-3620) requires the reporting by school personnel of suspected cases of child abuse and/or neglect to the police and Child Protective Services. Santa CruzSchool will comply with this statute.
PHOTO RELEASE
Santa CruzSchool does not allow any student’s name or likeness to be used for media or promotional purposes without the written consent of parents/guardians. A photo release permission form is issued with registrations forms each school year.
NEED TO KNOW INFORMATION
To help the school provide a safe environment for the students, the parents/guardians must communicate vital information to the school. Much of this information is given during registration, but, if for any reason it changes, parents/guardians must communicate these changes to the school office as soon as possible. · Address · Phone number · Emergency numbers · Persons to whom the school can release the student · Medication taken, allergies, limiting physical conditions, etc.
SUPPORT RESOURCES
The following resources are available to students and/or families:
· School Counselor: In addition to providing weekly Christian Guidance classes in each grade, the Santa Cruz School Counselor provided one-on-one and group student counseling services and serves as a resource person for parents/guardians.
· Federal Student Lunch Program: Lunch is served each school day between 11:30 and 12:30. Free and reduced priced lunch is available for qualifying families. Applications for free or reduced lunch must be filled out and returned to the school office for approval annually. If a family’s financial situation changes during the school year, the family may reapply. Students will be allowed to charge for lunch up to three times when necessary. After the third borrow, the student will not be allowed to borrow again until the bill is paid. Parents will be notified when payment is due. · Carondelet Parish Nurses: Nurses from the Carondelet Foundation Parish Nurse Program are available each Tuesday to assist individuals in receiving health care at the school. They can give physicals and immunizations, but only by appointment. Call on Tuesdays at 617-0823. · KIDCO: KIDCO is an after school childcare program at Santa Cruz sponsored by the Tucson Parks and Recreation Department. It is available to children who attend Santa CruzSchool, Grades K to age 12. Registration and all details are handled by the Parks and Recreation Dept.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Santa Cruz Catholic School has a detailed Emergency Response Plan, to be put into effect in the event of a crisis at school or a school related crisis. This plan meets the criteria of the Diocese of Tucson and State Department of Education emergency management guidelines for schools. Staff and students are trained in the emergency response actions to be taken as applicable. This plan is updated on an annual basis.
UNIFORMS AND DRESS CODE
Uniforms are required at Santa CruzCatholicSchool as part of the dress code. The dress code exists because: · We believe that through the use of uniforms and the dress code, all students become equal, therefore not separating the “haves” from the “have nots”; · A dress code provides help in focusing on a professional attitude toward education; · A dress code helps in enforcing Christian standards of modesty.
All students in all grades are required to wear the school uniform as described below. Santa Cruz School uniforms must be purchased at Garment Graphics, 220 W. Fr. Lowell Rd., Tucson. · White or blue polo shirtwith school logo. Shirts must have a collar and be without any extra ornamentation. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Exceptions may be made to the “tuck in” rule if the shirt is untucked but extends no lower than the top of the hips and covers the waist when the student is sitting down. If a t-shirt is worn under the polo shirt, it may only be visible at the neck and must be white in color. · Navy blue bottoms: - Girls - slacks, pleated skirts, walking shorts, capri pants or skorts. (jumpers are allowed for PreK & K) Skorts must follow the skirt length regulation. Belts must be worn if pants have belt loops. - Boys – navy blue slacks or walking shorts. Belts must be worn if pants have belt loops. · Indoor cool weather tops: Santa Cruz logo navy blue sweatshirts. Sweatshirts must be pullover, without hoods and zippers. The school administration reserves the right to ask students to remove the sweatshirts in warm weather. · Socks – solid white or solid dark colored, crew sock style fitting at least one (1) inch above the ankle bone. · Vests – pullover navy blue logo vests may be worn by boys or girls, over the polo shirt. Shirts must be tucked in and not be visible under the vest at the waist. Vests are an option, not mandatory.
PE Uniforms · Students in Grades 5-8 are required to wear the Santa CruzPE uniform: red shorts and gray t-shirt. The PE uniform must also be purchased at Garment Graphics. · Students in Grades Pre-K – 4 must wear t-shirts and shorts on PE days, following the dress code out of uniform regulatons. · Athletic shoes must be worn for PE class. · Failure to change into the regular uniform is considered a uniform violation.
Mass Attire · Girls: Uniform skirts or jumpers. (No shorts or PE clothes). · Boys: Uniform slacks (No shorts or PE clothes).
DRESS CODE
THE FOLLOWING DRESS CODE IS IN EFFECT ON UNIFORM DAYS AS WELL AS FREE DRESS DAYS. Modesty and safety issues are important considerations. · Shorts, skorts and skirts must cover at least ¾ of the thigh. Shorts should be at the top of the knee in length. · Slacks and shorts must be worn on the waist, not be “over sized” or having the crotch below the crotch area. Waistbands and belts must be visible with shirts tucked in. · Belts must be a solid, dark color, with no colored ornamentation and must be visible below the tucked in shirt. · Tight clothing is not allowed. · Skirts must be long enough so that underwear does not show when the student bends over. · Socks must be worn, crew style, one (1) inch above the ankle bone. · If a shirt is so long that it can be sat on, it must be tucked in. (Regular uniform shirts must always be tucked in.) · Caps are not to be worn inside and never backwards. · Professional jackets and caps are not allowed on campus. (that is, professional sports or other professional logos) · Jewelry is limited to one pair small stud earrings for girls, one small religious chain or necklace and watches for both boys and girls. *No hoop earrings, rings or bracelets, anything on the wrists (except a watch). Students, who fail to exercise personal responsibility and cooperation regarding the wearing of jewelry, will be asked to remove the jewelry. The jewelry will be kept in the office until a parent/guardian or responsible adult picks it up. Repeated offenses will result in the jewelry being kept until the end of the school year. The school is not responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged jewelry. · No tattoos, body piercing or other body art. · Hair should be well groomed. For boys, it should be no longer than the top of the shirt collar. For all students, it must be above the eyebrows in length. Dyed, extreme or faddish hair is not permitted. · No make-up, fingernail polish or artificial fingernails. · Sturdy shoes must be worn. High heels and sandals are not permitted. · No spandex or stretch attire for outerwear. · No garment may be worn that is cut-off, ragged, or torn.
Free Dress
On announced days during the school year, the students will be allowed to wear other designated clothing and accessories. Failure to follow the designated dress or dress code on these days will result in a uniform violation and may result in the student losing the privilege of free dress in the future. · No halter tops or crop tops. · No tank tops or muscle shirts. · No attire that may be perceived as being gang attire or gang related. · No shirts with inappropriate depictions or sayings. · No drug, alcohol or tobacco advertisements.
The school reserves the right to regulate exaggerated or faddish styles which tend to draw unfavorable attention to the wearer or disrupt the learning process in any way.
Once a week, on the day designated as “t-shirt day,” students may wear the white Santa Cruz t-shirt, the style purchased in the school office, with the blue and yellow school design. On these days, the t-shirt must be worn with the uniform bottom, that is, with navy pants, skirts, skorts, capris or shorts. Jeans are not allowed. These t-shirts must be tucked in if they fall below the hips.
PARENT ORGANIZATIONS
SCHOOL BOARD
The mission of the Santa Cruz School Board is to implement the school’s mission. It serves in an advisory capacity for the operation of the school. Specific responsibilities of the School Board are listed in that body’s constitution. A copy of the constitution is available upon request. The schedule of School Board meetings is posted in the monthly school calendar. In general, the meetings are open (everyone can attend). If individuals desire to have certain items discussed, they should contact the president of the school board for permission to be placed on the agenda.
The School Board operates under the auspices of Santa Cruz Parish and the Diocese of Tucson Department of Catholic Schools.
Committees The School Board has the following standing committees, made up of board members and volunteer parents/guardian: · Finance Committee · Public Relations Committee · Maintenance Committee
SANTA CRUZSCHOOL PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION
The main purpose and function of the Santa Cruz Parent Teacher Association is for the total school community to be directly involved in and supportive of the school. This includes family social events, informational and educational parent programs, public relations, and enhancing financial assistance.
Committees The PTA has the following standing committees, made up of volunteer parents/guardians: · Fundraising Committee · CTSO Committee · Development/Endowment Committee
SANTA CRUZSCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
Santa Cruz School participates in the Diocese of Tucson Department of Catholic Schools Athletic Program. The school follows the directives and policies of this program. The Santa Cruz School Athletic Director and the school’s Athletic Committee administer the sports program in accordance with diocesan policy. The Athletic Committee members are volunteer parents/guardians who have children participating in the school sports program.
SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS
FAMILY ENVELOPE
Communications to parents are sent home via a family envelope, entrusted to the oldest child in the family. Parents/guardians are asked to sign the envelope and return it to school 1-3 days after receiving it. If the envelope is lost, the office should be notified and it will be replaced. If a non-custodial parent is to receive family envelope communications, it is the responsibility of the family to notify the school office of this fact and make arrangements for receiving the envelope.
CALENDAR
At the beginning of each month a school calendar will be sent home indicating coming events, schedules, and other pertinent information.
PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS
In a spirit of fairness and openness, the school asks that matters of concern, complaints, etc., be discussed directly, in a professional manner, with the person(s) involved. The progression a parent should follow in the event of a conflict or concern should be handled in the following order: - teacher/staff member most directly involved - principal. - pastor - Office of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Tucson
HANDBOOK REGULATIONS
Parents/guardians, by virtue of their children’s registration at Santa CruzSchool, agree to be bound by the regulations found in the school’s Parent-Student Handbook. When the handbook is issued at the beginning of each school year, parents/guardians are requested to sign a form indicating they have received the handbook and are familiar with its contents. The principal is the final recourse and reserves the right to amend this handbook. Parents/Guardians will be given prompt notice or any Handbook changes.
MISCELLANEOUS
TITLE IX COMPLIANCE
Santa Cruz School is in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 to the extent that no person shall, on the basis of gender, race, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, nor be subjected to discrimination under any educational programs or activities, nor shall there be discrimination by gender, race or national origin in the employment of personnel.
AVAILABILITY OF RECORDS
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 provide parents/guardians access to the educational files of their children. Santa CruzSchool procedures/guidelines for release of records are as follows: · Parents/guardians can request to see their children’s records at any time, with a school official present, provided the school is given reasonable advance notice, so as to make the records readily available; · The written consent of parents/guardians is required for the school to release student records to another institution or party; · Parents have a right to a hearing in order to correct or remove inaccurate, misleading or inappropriate data from the files of their children; · Students who are 18 years of age have the same rights as parents regarding the Privacy Act of 1974.
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION RESOURCE AGREEMENT
All students enrolled in Santa CruzSchool and their parents/guardians are required to sign the Computer and Information Resource Agreement policy. Failure to sign this policy, by either student or parent/guardian, will result in the student not being allowed use of the computer network or internet at school. Signing the policy once suffices for and remains applicable for all of the years the child is enrolled in Santa CruzSchool.
OTHER
Students are not allowed to bring electronic devices of any kind to school, unless an exception is made by a teacher for a specific reason and for a limited time. This includes CD’s and CD players, radios, electronic games, phones, pagers, etc. Pets should not be brought to school unless previous arrangements have been made. The school and individual classroom teachers reserve the right to ban any item that becomes a distraction.
If a cell phone is an absolute necessity for a student at school, permission must be obtained from the principal by the student’s parent/guardian. In this case, the phone may only be used outside of school hours, and only by the student who has obtained valid permission. During school hours, the phone must be kept in the school office. The school telephone is available in the case of emergencies, so ordinarily, there is no need for a student to have a cell phone during school hours. |
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