INTRODUCTION TO ST. MARY’S SCHOOL
PARISH MISSION STATEMENT
As members of St. Mary's Parish, Gainesville, Texas, our primary mission is to live within the Church community in a manner faithful and pleasing to God, our Father, and to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ the Savior of all people. As Catholics, the opportunity to attend Mass and receive the Holy Eucharist in a spirit of shared celebration is prerequisite to fulfillment of our mission.
We are Christians who serve as witnesses to Christ's presence on earth and His ongoing ministry in society. United in this belief, we are called to work together in this ministry by serving those in need, worshipping, and forming a Catholic community bonded by love, humility, and compassion.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the gifts and talents of our members and the community at large, we are committed to continued stewardship of existing programs including RCIA and the religious education of all members. The maintenance and growth of St. Mary's School is an essential element of our stewardship mission.
SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
St. Mary’s Catholic School exists to serve Jesus Christ through the educational process developing our students mentally, physically, and morally as an extension of our parish mission. St. Mary’s School is a family that consists of parents, teachers, and students working together to be an example of Christ in education. The staff at St. Mary’s School strives to teach as Jesus taught. While developing their relationship with God and each other, all students at St. Mary’s School will realize that this school does
make a difference in their lives.
ACCREDITATION
St. Mary's School is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference under the Texas Education Agency. Accreditation is every ten years with annual renewals. St. Mary’s last official accreditation visit was in 2005.
HISTORY
St. Mary's School was established in 1891 by the Benedictine Sisters. In 1902 four School Sisters of Notre Dame took charge of the school which was then a six-room frame building. Thirty-two pupils were enrolled that August which increased to seventy-five by the end of the year. The next school term 120 students enrolled. In 1905 high school subjects were offered for the first time. An official high school building opened in 1938. The present St. Mary's Elementary School was erected in 1948. It was the first major structure built in Gainesville after World War II. The high school was disbanded in 1952. The School Sisters of Notre Dame phased out of direct administration and classroom instruction in 1984. The building was completely remodeled and air conditioning installed in 1979. A junior high section was added in 1985. A gymnasium was erected in 1991 in celebration of St. Mary's Centennial. In 2004 a new Early Learning Childhood Center with four classrooms was built onto the current school building. The staff continues a tradition of working with parents to stress the infinite worth of each individual student.
ACADEMICS
ACCELERATED READER PROGRAM
St. Mary's offers the Accelerated Reader Program to all students in grades 1-8. This program is designed to promote reading. Some teachers may require students to earn AR points. For other students, it is an extra-curricular program. Any student who earns AR points will be allowed to redeem them for special rewards.
AWARDS AND HONORS
St. Mary's is proud of the many accomplishments of its students and strives to give recognition
in academics, sports, and special achievements. The following is used for recognizing the academic achievements of the students: Principal’s Honor Roll-an average of 95 or above; Honor Roll-an average between 90 and 94; B Honor Roll-an average between 80 and 89. The different honor rolls are sent to the local newspaper each reporting period.
CONTENT MASTERY PROGRAM
The Content Mastery Program offers both enrichment activities and remediation for students in grades K4-8. The program is staffed with a certified teacher. Classroom teachers must recommend students for the program. There is constant communication between the content mastery teacher and each classroom teacher to ensure that the needs of each individual student are met.
CURRICULUM
St. Mary's offers a strong academic program in a Christian environment. In addition, the faculty provides religious instruction in the Catholic faith. Students in grades K-8 are required to attend Mass each week. Students in K3 and K4 will attend on designated days.
The Early Learning Center uses a program that is committed to developing and preparing the young child for elementary school.
Students in grades 1-8 receive instruction in religion, language arts (reading, English, spelling, writing, handwriting, phonics, library skills), math, social studies, science, computer literacy, Spanish, music, art, and physical education. They may also participate in extra-curricular academic competitions throughout the year such as NTIL (North Texas Independent League) and/or PSIA (Private Schools Interscholastic Association).
FIELD TRIPS
School-sponsored field trips are educational in nature and must be approved by the principal. Parental help is essential. Without this help, field trips are not possible. When the school sponsors a trip, the students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately. The Diocesan policies and guidelines for field trips must be followed along with the following rules and regulations.
Rules & Regulations for Parents and Students to Observe While on a School-Sponsored Field Trip
1. Each parent volunteer will be assigned children to guide and supervise during the field trip.
2. Each child will be assigned to a vehicle, and he/she will ride in that vehicle going to the
destination and coming back to the school.
3. All children must have a seatbelt fastened properly while the vehicle is in motion. Each
child should keep his/her seatbelt fastened until instructed to remove it by the driver of the
vehicle.
4. Children are expected to be well-behaved, and the parent assigned to them should
accept nothing less. Any disruptive behavior should be reported to the teacher immediately.
5. All parent drivers must have a Volunteer Driver Information Sheet on file in the school office
and meet Diocesan insurance requirements before being allowed to drive on a field trip.
6. One vehicle will be designated as the lead vehicle and one as the end vehicle. The teacher will
travel in the lead vehicle and will make sure that all the vehicles stay together. This is very
important when in traffic because the teacher is responsible for the students and must know
where they are at all times. This is also necessary in the event of car trouble.
7. Once the students have arrived at the destination, all groups are to remain at that location
until the designated time of departure. Parents are not to leave the location and must follow
the teacher’s decisions regarding meeting times, meeting locations, departure times, etc.
8. Field trips are extensions of classroom studies. Siblings may not attend due to transportation
and school liability issues.
9. Each field trip is unique and teachers have the right to add any rules that may be necessary
to ensure a safe and enjoyable field trip.
10. Adult supervisors are not to smoke while on a field trip.
Diocesan policy prohibits St. Mary’s School personnel from taking students on overnight field trips. Field trips of this nature are not authorized by St. Mary’s School. If these field trips are planned by other individuals for students who attend St. Mary’s School, the individuals who participate do so at their own risk. St. Mary’s School is not liable under these circumstances. Fund raisers organized to pay for such trips are not under the jurisdiction of St. Mary’s School, and no individual is authorized to use the school’s name to raise such funds.
GRADES
Numerical grades will be used on papers and tests. Report card grades for the students in grades
1-8 will also be numerical. The lowest passing grade is a 70. Special needs students may have grade modifications put into place.
HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
Homework is an extension of classroom instruction. It helps to develop concepts presented in the classroom, provides additional practice with skills, and helps a student master the goals and objectives presented by the classroom teacher. In addition, having homework assignments to do on a regular basis helps to foster systematic study habits. Parents should provide an adequate study area in the home, offer guidance if necessary, and express an interest in the quality of the completed assignment. A student will realize that homework is a vital part of the educational process if both the teacher and the parents hold the child accountable for the quality of the work.
Individual teachers are responsible for the amount and type of homework assignment. Students in grades K-8 will have homework. The teachers will review the assignments and provide feedback to the students.
Homework assignments should be kept within reasonable limits. The maximum time spent on homework will be: K3, K4—10-15 minutes; K—20 minutes; Grades 1 & 2—30 minutes; Grades 3, 4, & 5—45 minutes; Grades 6, 7, & 8—1 to 1-1/2 hours.
Students are expected to take home all materials needed to complete homework assignments. Students are also responsible for returning assignments on the date they are due.
No student may leave school without notifying the office. If a student knows in advance that he/she is leaving school early or will be absent for an extended period of time, he/she should bring a note from a parent and give it to the teacher. The teacher will submit the note to the principal’s office. Missed homework and/or classwork will be made up after school when the student returns unless the absence is excused. Excused absences include any that are preapproved by the office. In addition, absences due to illnesses, family emergencies, or medical appointments are excused. Teachers will not give assignments prior to the child leaving school. Assignments for the students in grades 6, 7, and 8 may be picked up from the office on the day of the absence after 2:30 p.m. Assignments for all other students may be picked up after dismissal.
Failure to Complete Homework in Grades Pre-K—3: Students will miss recess until all homework is completed.
Failure to Complete Homework in Grades 4—8: Students will stay in detention that day until 4:30 p.m. Late homework assignments will be penalized 10 points. At the end of each class, each teacher will send a homework form to the office for every child who will be in detention that day. The office will notify the parent that the student will need to be picked up at 4:30, and the form will be sent to the principal. The principal will be responsible for detention each day. When each assignment is completed, the form will be attached to the assignment and returned to the teacher. If a child is unable to finish the work in one day, he/she will be allowed to complete the work at home that evening. Detention will be assigned the following day only if the work has not been completed and submitted to the teacher. Students who are assigned to detention will attend after school athletic practices after 4:30. FEES WILL BE CHARGED FOR DETENTION AT THE EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM RATE.
The exception will be late homework due to an excused absence. One day will be given to complete the work for each day the student has been absent. Therefore, if a child has a three day excused absence, he/she will be given three days to complete all of the missed work. Students are not to be allowed to leave the classroom to complete an assignment.
LIBRARY
All students will be able to go to the school library to check out books and use reference materials. Students will have access to the library during regularly scheduled library periods. Students with overdue books will be assessed a fine of $.10 per day for each book, but they will be allowed to check out materials for the next two regularly scheduled library periods. After that time, however, the overdue books must be returned before a student will be allowed to check out additional materials. Any student who loses or damages a library book will pay for its replacement.
NO PASS-NO PARTICIPATION RULE
Since educating the students is the main focus at St. Mary's School, it is very important to maintain a balance between education and extra-curricular activities. Because of this fact, St. Mary's has adopted a no pass-no participation policy for its students. Grades will be checked according to the following guidelines.
First three weeks of school: All students are eligible to participate. Grades will not be checked until after the students have been in school for three weeks. After the three weeks are over, the principal will check the grades of each participant by 9:00 a.m. the day of the activity. If the activity takes place over a weekend, eligibility will be determined by 9:00 a.m. Friday morning. Students who have a failing grade will be ineligible for that activity. If a student has grade modifications in place, the principal will decide on his/her eligibility.
At the end of each grading period: If a student is ineligible at the end of a grading period, that child will remain ineligible for three weeks. After the three weeks are over, the principal will check the grades of each participant by 9:00 a.m. the day of the activity. If the activity takes place over a weekend, eligibility will be determined by 9:00 a.m. Friday morning. Students who have a failing grade will be ineligible for that activity. If a student has grade modifications in place, the principal will decide on his/her eligibility.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The TCCED (Texas Catholic Conference Education Department) requires all children to participate in physical education class unless an excuse from a doctor is on file in the school office. If a child is too ill to participate on a particular day, the parent should send a note to the classroom teacher. The teacher will see that the physical education teacher receives this note.
REPORT CARDS AND CONFERENCES
Students in all grades will receive academic report cards each nine weeks. Report cards issued after the first and third grading periods will be given to parents at a scheduled parent-teacher conference. These conferences give both the parents and the teacher the opportunity to discuss the child's academic and social progress. If a parent is unable to come on the conference day, other arrangements must be made with the teacher. Grades are posted daily on RenWeb so that parents have access to current information at all times. It is the parents’ responsibility to use this information to keep track of their child’s/children’s progress.
SUMMER READING REQUIREMENT
Each May the students in grades 3-8 may receive a summer reading assignment. This assignment is to be completed before the beginning of the next school year.
SUMMER SCHOOL
Each year St. Mary’s School offers a summer program for students who need remediation in one or more academic areas. Students must be recommended by a teacher in order to attend summer school. These recommendations are discussed with parents at the parent/teacher conference after the third grading period. In addition, any student who fails two academic subjects must attend summer school in order to be considered for promotion. Summer school can also be required for students who have violated the attendance policy.
TEXTBOOKS
All textbooks are reviewed annually. The Diocese of Fort Worth updates the list of acceptable textbooks periodically. Textbooks are each student’s responsibility and may be covered to minimize damage. Students will be responsible for replacing lost, damaged, or destroyed books.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL POLICIES
ARRIVING AT SCHOOL
School hours are from 7:50 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. for the students in the Early Learning Center and from 7:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for those in grades 1-8. All students must report to the gym each morning. The gym door is unlocked at 7:20 a.m. All students are required to be in their assigned places by 7:50 a.m. as the morning assembly is an important part of the school day. At this time an opening prayer, the pledge to the flag, and morning announcements are made. Afterwards the classes will be dismissed with the teachers to walk quietly to the classrooms. The gym door will be locked, and the main office door will be unlocked. All doors to the school will remain locked during the day with the exception of the main entrance to provide for the safety of the children. Visitors to the school must check in at the main office so they can be admitted to the building through the security door.
AFTERNOON DISMISSAL
Students should be picked up promptly at the end of the school day. At 3:15 p.m. all Early Learning Center students will be dismissed. They must be picked up on the north side of the ELC building. Students will not be dismissed through the main office. The traffic will go east on Mustang Alley which is a one-way street. Each student will be placed into the appropriate vehicle by a staff person. Adults should not park in the line and get out of their vehicles for any reason. Traffic must continue to flow. On the first day of school, each child will receive a placard with his/her name printed on it. This is to be hung from the rearview mirror to expedite the dismissal process.
At 3:25 p.m. all students in grades 1-8 will assemble in the Parish Hall and be dismissed after prayer. Students will not be dismissed through the main office. Driving through the car line is the safest way to pick up students. People who choose to walk up to the Parish Hall to pick up students are to park on the street in front of the church/school. They will enter the building through the junior high doors (these are the doors by the after school room) and come to the side door of the Parish Hall (this is the door next to the cafeteria kitchen). A teacher will be there to call the children. The adults and the students are to leave promptly through the junior high doors. People walking must not cross through the line of cars moving under the canopy. They need to go directly to the sidewalk, and go to their vehicles. The adults walking with their children need to be very careful as cars will be leaving the parking lot through the driveway.
Adults who drive through the car line will enter from the east on Foreline Street and assemble in a line on the gym black-top. A staff person will load each car with the appropriate student(s) as it pulls through the covered area in front of the Parish Hall. Cars will go north on Weaver Street or east on Hall Street to exit. It is imperative that the line of cars move as quickly as possible. Therefore, any person who needs extra time for any reason should park and walk to the building to handle the situation.
Students whose parents are employees of St. Mary’s School will report to the Parish Hall for prayer and will be dismissed to be supervised by their parents when the other students are taken to the Extended Day Program.
Any ELC child who has not been picked up by 3:30 and any child in grades 1-8 who has not been picked up by 3:45 will go to the Extended Day Program. The parent will be billed at a rate of $6.00 per hour/per child or $8.00 per hour/per family. No child will be allowed to be unsupervised after school. Each student will only be allowed to leave with people authorized to pick up that child. Therefore, parents must notify the school office if anyone other than a parent is to pick up a student.
EARLY DISMISSAL
School will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. on days designated as early dismissal days. Parents need to pick up students promptly on these days using the same afternoon dismissal guidelines. The after-school program is offered on most early dismissal days. Parents can check the monthly school calendar to determine when after-school care is available.
School is also dismissed early for parent/teacher conferences in October and again in March. Periodically, school will be dismissed early before a holiday. The dates will be printed on the school calendar that is sent home each month. Any changes will be emailed through RenWeb immediately.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
If school needs to be closed or the opening delayed, the announcement will be made concerning St. Mary’s/Gainesville on KGAF, KXII TV (Channel 12), and Channel 5. Since there are other schools named St. Mary’s in the area, parents need to be sure to look for the inclusion of the word Gainesville in the announcement.
EMERGENCY SCHOOLWIDE LOCKDOWN
Should an emergency arise that requires St. Mary’s School to be locked-down for security purposes, students will not be permitted to leave the building until the situation is resolved. In addition, visitors will not be allowed to enter the building. The principal will make decisions based on all of the knowledge available at the time and do what is appropriate to keep the students and staff as safe as possible.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES
ABSENCE
A student's attendance is of utmost importance for learning. Anyone present less than two hours in the morning or two hours in the afternoon is marked absent for that part of the day. Excused absences include any that are preapproved by the office. In addition, absences due to illnesses, family emergencies, or medical appointments are considered excused. The parent should call or email the office before 10:00 a.m. on the day of an absence to let the school know the reason for the child’s absence or may send a note explaining the reason when the child returns to school. Students who are absent for three days or more due to a medical condition must bring a doctor’s note to be readmitted to class. Failure to do this will result in the child receiving an unexcused absence. All students must attend school 90% of the days in each semester so that advancement eligibility is not jeopardized. Summer school can be required for those students who have excessive absences. These decisions will be made by the principal. Students may not participate in extra-curricular activities on any day that they have been absent from school. Any exceptions to this rule will need to be approved by the principal.
ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
If a child becomes ill at school, a parent will be called immediately by a staff person in the school office. If a parent cannot be reached, another person listed on the emergency card will be called. A parent should notify the office immediately if a telephone number on the emergency card needs to be changed.
MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS
Doctor’s and dental appointments should be scheduled after school hours. If a student must be taken for an appointment during the regular school day, a note must be given to the child's teacher in the morning. Even though students will be picked up through the office, the teacher needs to know prior to the child’s departure so the child will be ready to leave. Students must be signed out of school by a parent/guardian. The sign-out book is located in the secretary’s office.
PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL
No student may leave school without notifying the office. If a student knows in advance that he/she is leaving school early or will be absent for an extended period of time, he/she should bring a note from a parent and give it to the teacher. The teacher will submit the note to the principal’s office. Missed homework and/or classwork will be made up after school when the student returns unless the absence is excused. Excused absences include any that are preapproved by the office. In addition, absences due to illnesses, family emergencies, or medical appointments are considered excused. Teachers will not give assignments prior to the child leaving school.
TARDINESS
Parents are responsible for getting their children to school by 7:50 a.m. The morning announcements, prayer time, and the pledge to the flag are an important part of the school day; and all students are required to attend. For safety and security reasons, parents need to accompany tardy students into the building. Children who enter the classroom after the start of the day disrupt the teacher and the other students. Therefore, after a child is tardy three times, one of his/her parents will be required to have a conference with the principal to discuss the situation. In addition, three tardies equal one absence.
DISCIPLINE
Promoting a safe, Christian environment is the primary goal of St. Mary’s School. Every student must realize that he/she is responsible for his/her actions. St. Mary’s School views discipline as a subject that needs to be constantly addressed. When a student chooses to break a rule, he/she also chooses to suffer whatever consequences are appropriate. Students are expected to learn that discipline is necessary for spiritual, physical, and intellectual growth to occur. Each teacher has a classroom discipline plan which is sent home to the parents on the first day of school. This plan will list classroom guidelines and consequences.
Since an excellent learning environment is important, all students are expected to follow rules that will foster this. Students should obey the regulations out of respect. If a student does not exhibit sufficient academic or social self-discipline, appropriate actions will be taken. These measures will follow the Zero Tolerance Behavior Policy approved by the St. Mary’s School Advisory Council. These measures can lead to suspension and expulsion. The following basic rules are given as guidelines for all students.
CLASSROOM PROCEDURES
1. Attend and be on time for all classes.
2. Be prepared for each class with appropriate materials and assignments.
3. Be properly attired as explained in the dress code.
4. Demonstrate respect for the rights of staff members and fellow students.
5. Demonstrate respect for school property and the property of others.
6. Stand when an adult enters a classroom. Use an appropriate greeting such as, "Good Morning/Afternoon."
Address adults with an appropriate title such as sir or ma’am.
7. Do not eat in the classrooms, library, or computer room. (Supervised activities are an exception to this
rule.)
8. Do not chew gum on school property.
9. Keep desks and lockers neat and orderly. Periodic inspections will be held.
10. Do not sit on bookshelves, desks, or tables.
11. Do not run in the halls.
12. Respect the privacy of any staff member. Never tamper with an adult’s desk, computer, purse, etc.
13. Never show disrespect to anyone.
14. Comply with all classroom rules.
15. St. Mary's is not responsible for lost items. Students in the junior high school may put locks on the
lockers. If a student has a lock on his/her locker, an extra key must be given to the homeroom teacher.
CONDUCT OUT OF TOWN
The same rules apply when students are off the campus as when they are on the campus. Students must remember that their behavior on a school trip can reflect on the reputation of the school and the community. Students need to keep this in mind and act accordingly.
CONDUCT WITH VISITORS
All visitors are to be treated with courtesy and respect. The goal is for a visitor to leave with a positive feeling concerning St. Mary’s School.
SCHOOL SPIRIT
School spirit is an important and influential factor in the life of the school. It calls for loyalty to the school in all that it undertakes, cooperation in making these undertakings successful, and a sense of responsibility for making school experiences worthwhile and happy. In addition school spirit calls for obedience, honesty, respect for school traditions, respect for school property, and respect for the staff.
JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
Disciplinary Infractions
A verbal warning should be enough to correct inappropriate behavior. If a verbal warning is ineffective, the staff member can take recess privileges away for one day with three missed recesses equaling one infraction. Disciplinary Infractions can be issued immediately for inappropriate behavior. A parent will be notified of any Disciplinary Infractions via email through Renweb. Parents are encouraged to have a conference with the teacher to discuss discipline concerns. If questions remain, parents can request a conference with the vice-principal. Three written Disciplinary Infractions equal one offense and will be treated following the Guidelines for Punishing Offenses.
Disciplinary Infractions might include:
1. Chewing gum or eating without permission.
2. Talking without permission.
3. Dress code violations.
4. Repeatedly being late for class or not having the materials necessary for class.
5. Leaving items out in the hallway.
- Failure to turn in or make up homework. (See Homework Guidelines.)
- Discourteous behavior.
- Littering the campus
- Leaving the cafeteria without permission.
10. Misuse of school equipment.
11. Throwing rocks or other objects at recess.
12. Playing tackling games at recess.
13. Returning to the building without permission when at recess.
14. Running and jumping in the hall.
15. Loud talking in the halls or restrooms.
16. Failure to keep hands, feet, and objects to oneself.
17. Inappropriate behavior during Mass.
18. Other inappropriate behaviors left to the discretion of the staff member.
Guidelines for Punishing Offenses
1st Offense: 1 hour of detention after school on an assigned day.
2nd Offense: 2 hours of detention after school on two consecutive days.
3rd Offense: 3 hours of Saturday detention.
4th Offense: 1 day of in-school suspension/parents must attend a zero tolerance meeting.
5th Offense: 2 days of in-school suspension/parents must attend a zero tolerance meeting.
6th Offense: 1 day of out-of-school suspension/parents must attend a zero tolerance meeting.
7th Offense: Possible suspension/expulsion from school.
A student will move directly to the next offense level if he/she fails to serve the assigned punishment. After serving that punishment, he/she will also be required to serve the one originally assigned.
If a student reaches the third offense level, he/she will be required to attend Saturday detention. After this has been satisfactorily completed, the student will be entitled to have one offense removed from his/her record. This will put the student back on the 2nd Offense level. Hopefully, this will encourage the student to learn from past behavior and give him/her the opportunity to keep from moving up to higher punishments. If the student continues to receive infractions, he/she will only be allowed to serve two additional Saturday detentions. After this, the opportunity for infraction removal will be revoked; and the student will move up to the next punishment.
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION, SUSPENSION, AND EXPULSION
Immediate in-school suspension, suspension, or expulsion will result from behavior that is totally unacceptable. The principal will decide on the particular consequence imposed. The severity of the situation and the individual circumstances will be taken into consideration when this decision is made. This behavior includes but is not limited to the following:
A. Smoking.
B. Use of alcohol.
C. Use of dangerous drugs.
D. Cheating.
E. Lying.
F. Vandalism.
G. Threatening harm to students, staff, or property.
H. Stealing.
I. Fighting.
J. Skipping school or leaving school without permission.
K. Bringing a weapon to school.
L. Hazing.
M. Using vulgarity.
N. Using the internet for inappropriate reasons such as playing games, checking email, being in
chat rooms, etc.
O. Use of a cell phone (calling, texting, taking pictures, etc.) or other electronic devices without permission during the school day
P. Racial slurs.
Q. Inappropriate displays of affection.
R. Sexual harassment.*
S. Harassment/Bullying**
*Examples of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to: sexual propositions, off-color jokes, inappropriate physical contact, innuendoes, sexual offers, looks, and gestures.
**Harassment is defined as one person making repeated (more than one) verbal or physical contacts with another person who does not want these contacts. Bullying usually involves some type of force. This can be done verbally, physically, or socially.
A child who is in in-school suspension is prohibited from participating in activities that occur during the extended school day. Thus the student is excluded from all school activities that occur after school hours on the day that the child is in ISS. This includes but is not limited to athletic practices, academic practices, athletic competitions, academic competitions, play performances, etc.
DRESS CODE
**NOTE: Each item of clothing worn by a student must have the name of the owner clearly printed on the label. This will enable lost things to be returned after they are found in the locker rooms, gym, cafeteria, library, classrooms, hallways, restrooms, on the playground, school bus, etc.
Students of St. Mary's School represent the school and are expected to be modestly dressed and well-groomed at all times. All students are required to wear school uniforms. Free dress days may be specified by the principal.
The School Uniform: The Parker Uniform Company carries the authorized school uniform and is the sole carrier of the St. Mary's plaid skirt and jumper. Uniform clothing (except for the plaid skirt and jumper) may be purchased at any clothing store. Items purchased at stores other than Parker must be the same color and style that Parker offers. Visible logos or emblems such as Polo, Dockers, Dickey's, etc., are not permitted and must be removed from clothing before being worn to school. Fad styles such as corduroy clothing, cargo pants, pants with side pockets or wide legs, capri pants, etc., are prohibited. Students are not permitted to wear clothing that is excessively large for them. This is considered a fad. Clothing may not be embellished with lace, ruffles, rhinestones, bows, silver buckles, decorative buttons, brads, chains, decorative pockets, etc.
Boys: Shorts/Pants-Navy blue or khaki. Shorts may not be more than two inches above or two inches below the knee. Navy shorts/pants must be worn to Mass.
Shirts-Solid white or navy shirts with a collar. Acceptable shirts include knit pullovers, oxfords, turtlenecks, or dress shirts. All students must keep shirts tucked in when on school property or on a school-sponsored trip.
*On regular school days shorts/pants must be navy or khaki and shirts must be navy blue or white. Navy blue pants and white shirts are to be worn on Mass days.
*In addition the eighth grade boys will need a white dress shirt, a navy tie, a pair of navy dress slacks, and a pair of black dress shoes for special school events.
Girls: Bottoms: St. Mary’s plaid jumper or skirt; navy blue or khaki skirt, jumper, skorts, slacks, or shorts. Skirts, jumpers, and skorts may not be shorter than 5” inches from the floor when kneeling.
Modesty Shorts: All girls must wear shorts under skirts and jumpers for modesty reasons. These shorts may not exceed the length of the skirt or jumper. Footless tights are not permitted.
Shirts: Solid white or navy blue shirt with a collar. All students must keep shirts tucked in when on school property or on a school-sponsored trip with the exception of the middy blouse purchased from the Parker Uniform Company.
*On regular school days bottoms must be navy, khaki, or plaid; and shirts must be navy blue or white. Navy blue or plaid bottoms and white shirts are to be worn on Mass days.
Athletic Apparel: In grades 6-8 blue or black shorts and a white, school T-shirt must be worn for P.E. classes and athletic practices. The shorts must be long enough to reach the mid-thigh.
Shoes: Sport shoes must be solid white with white shoelaces or solid black with black shoelaces. The blue and white tennis shoes sold by the Parker Uniform Company are also permitted. Socks must be navy or white, and shoelaces must be tied. Shoes that are adorned in any way are a distraction and thus, are not permitted.
Makeup: Conservative makeup may be worn by girls in the junior high school.
Hairstyles: Hairstyles must be reasonable and neat in appearance. In addition hair should be combed, clean, and worn so that it is kept out of a student’s eyes and off of the face. No outlandish or faddish hairstyles are permitted. Students may not wear tails, racing stripes, lines etched into the hair, hair extensions, or any type of unreasonable color highlights. The hair length for boys is shorter than the collar and above the ears and eyes.
Jewelry: Girls may wear small pierced earrings (no dangle earrings), a watch, a bracelet, one ring, and a necklace with a cross or religious medal. Boys may wear a watch, one ring, and a necklace with a cross or religious medal.
*Sweaters, sweatshirts, hair ribbons, and auxiliary clothing that will be worn all day should be navy and/or white with no visible logos. Hair ribbons and bows purchased from the Parker Uniform Company are permitted.
*Belts must be black or brown. Students in grades 3-8 are required to wear a belt at all times if the uniform bottom being worn has belt loops.
*Artificial fingernails are not permitted for any students. Girls may wear light colored fingernail polish but each finger must be painted the same color.
*Tattoos and body piercings are prohibited.
*Caps and hats are for outdoor wear only.
Junior high school students will receive an infraction for any dress code violation. In addition, violations that cause the classroom routine to be disrupted will be handled immediately by the principal.
SPIRIT WEAR GUIDELINES
The following dress code will be allowed only on games days to promote school spirit. This privilege can be revoked at the principal’s discretion.
1. All girls through the fifth grade may wear blue and white cheerleading suits with modesty shorts or bloomers.
2. All students may wear a St. Mary's spirit shirt. Navy or khaki bottoms must be worn. Other T-shirts and jeans are not allowed.
3. The coaches and sponsors of the cheerleaders and players will tell these students how to dress on game days.
4. Parents need to check the calendar carefully so that children do not come to school dressed in spirit wear on regular uniform days. Children will be asked to change if this occurs. They will be given the option to call for someone to bring them clothes, or they can find a change of clothes in the uniform closet located in the Parish Hall.
**NOTE: Each item of clothing worn by a student must have the name of the owner clearly printed on the label. This will enable lost things to be returned after they are found in the locker rooms, gym, cafeteria, library, classrooms, hallways, restrooms, on the playground, school bus, etc.
FREE DRESS DAY GUIDELINES
The following dress code will be allowed only on free dress days. This privilege can be revoked at the principal’s discretion.
1. Shoes: The students will be required to wear their regular school shoes unless a note or email sent home specifically states otherwise. On a designated free shoe day, roller shoes and flip flops are not allowed. Occasionally flip flops will be permitted. On these days the students should bring a pair of tennis shoes for physical education class.
2. Conservative clothing may be worn on free dress days. Clothing that is not allowed: gym shorts, athletic warm-ups, jogging suits, wind suits, revealing shirts or blouses, clothing with holes, short-shorts, short skirts, spaghetti straps, excessively baggy pants, excessively large clothing, etc.
Clothes or shoes that cause the classroom routine to be disrupted will be handled immediately by the principal.
DRILLS
FIRE
Fire drills at regular intervals are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route (signs are posted in every room) as quickly as possible. Students are not permitted to talk during a fire drill in case directions need to be changed. Students should remain outside the building until a signal is given to return inside.
TORNADO
In the event of a tornado warning, students should follow directions carefully. Areas of the building have been designated for shelter. Tornado drills are held in order to acquaint the students with the procedures and to minimize anxiety in the event of an actual tornado. If a tornado should occur at dismissal time, the principal will do what is necessary to keep the children as safe as possible.
EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM
St. Mary's School offers an Extended Day Program to its students. The program is designed for parents who can't pick their child/children up at the end of the school day. Staff members supervise the students, and the cost is $6.00/hour for one child or $8.00/hour for a family with two or more students. The fee is billed to the parents monthly, and parents are expected to pay monthly. A child will not be allowed to attend the extended day program if his/her bill goes unpaid for two months.
The hours are 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. The Extended Day Program ends promptly at 5:30 p.m. Children must be picked up by this time each day. Students who are habitually picked up after 5:30 p.m. will be dismissed from the program. This will be the principal’s decision.
GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ASBESTOS
St. Mary’s School contains minimal amounts of asbestos. The asbestos in the school has been sealed and meets federal regulations for asbestos abatements. It is inspected every six months and an asbestos file is maintained in the facility manager’s office. The file is available for review by parents.
GRIEVANCES BY PARENTS
Parents must try to resolve a problem by discussing the issue with the teacher. If a satisfactory solution is not found, the parent may take the grievance to the principal. If the issue is still not resolved,
the pastor and then the superintendent of schools may be consulted. Grievances will not be heard by the people on the higher levels if the people on the lower levels have not been consulted. Diocesan guidelines state that the proper procedure must be followed.
HEALTH FORMS
All Early Learning Center and new students are required to submit a medical report completed and signed by a physician. The school office must be notified of any conditions that affect a child’s general health.
In addition, all students must have the required immunizations to attend St. Mary’s School. Failure to receive the state-mandated immunizations will result in a child being sent home until an updated immunization record is submitted to the school office. Diocesan guidelines prohibit exceptions.
LUNCH PROGRAM
Hot lunches are prepared according to USDA standards and served in the cafeteria each day. St. Mary’s School follows the Diocese of Ft. Worth Wellness Policy. A copy of the wellness program can be obtained in the school office. A menu will be sent home at the beginning of each month. Lunches are $2.50 for the students in the Early Learning Center and $2.75 for all other students and adults. Lunch money should be submitted in a sealed envelope labeled with the student’s name, grade, amount of money enclosed, and the date(s) the student will be eating or purchasing milk. Lunch fees may also be paid through RenWeb. The money may be submitted daily, weekly, or monthly. The school office will notify a parent when a child’s lunch bill reaches $40.00. This bill will need to be paid before the student will be allowed to eat food from the cafeteria.
Free and reduced priced lunches are available to qualifying families. Application forms are sent home on the first day of the school year but are accepted anytime during the year. Therefore, a family whose financial situation changes during the year can still receive assistance.
Students may bring lunches from home as long as they do not require heating. Milk is available for $.35. Carbonated beverages are not allowed, and parents are not allowed to bring students lunches from a fast food restaurant.
MEDICATION AT SCHOOL
The policies adopted by the Diocese of Fort Worth state that medications needed for chronic conditions are the only ones that can be administered at school. All medications must be in a labeled prescription bottle. Written permission from the parent and the physician are needed to dispense the medication. This form is available in the school office. This includes inhalers, nebulizers, etc. No student will be allowed to administer his/her own medication.
PARTIES
Students are not permitted to receive gifts during school hours for any reason. This includes balloons, flowers, candy, baskets, stuffed animals, etc. Party invitations given out at school must be given to each student in the classroom.
Students may bring treats such as cupcakes or cookies for their class to celebrate birthdays. The treats will be given to the students at the discretion of the teacher. No party favors are permitted.
Throughout the year, each classroom teacher will decide what other holidays will be celebrated. Therefore, information concerning parties will be sent home from individual classroom teachers. Room mothers may be asked to help with refreshments and/or games.
REGISTRATION
Registration for each school year takes place in March of the preceding year. Pre-school students must be three, pre-kindergarten students must be four, and kindergarten students must be five by September 1st. In order to guarantee enrollment, the registration fee is due at the time of registration and is non-refundable. Parents who decide over the summer to enroll their children in other schools are asked to notify the office as soon as possible. This will enable the members of St. Mary’s staff to prepare for the upcoming school year.
Before being admitted to St. Mary’s School, a new student is required to interview with the principal and pass an entrance assessment.
SCHOOL SECURITY
Students and staff members are not to open locked doors during the school day to admit people to the building. All visitors are to enter through the front doors, check in at the office, and be admitted through the security door. Any stranger seen in the building should be reported to the office immediately.
VIOLENCE AND WEAPONS
The School is concerned with providing students and employees with a safe and productive environment. As such, the School expressly prohibits any and all acts or threats of violence by or against any student, employee, family member of a student, vendor, or other visitor to the School facilities. This policy applies to all students and employees, whether or not they are engaged in business on behalf of the School, and whether or not they are on School premises.
In addition, the School strictly prohibits the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or use of any and all weapons, including handguns, on School premises by any student or employee, family member of a student, vendor, or other visitor, whether licensed or unlicensed and whether concealed or visible. School premises includes not only the main facilities, but also the parking lots, entrances and exits, break areas, etc. Students and employees are further prohibited from the possession of, exhibiting or threatening to exhibit or to use, or the use of any and all weapons while conducting business on behalf of the School off of School premises.
The School is required to post signs containing the written statutory notice prohibiting bringing concealed weapons onto the School property. Contact the Diocese for the specific wording and statutory requirements for the written notice.
REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS
No individual, who is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 62, Code of Criminal Procedure, or any other statute, may be a student. Any student, who is required to register as a sex offender, shall be expelled from the school.
REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO COME ON
SCHOOL PROPERTY OR ATTEND SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Parents and other individuals are welcome to visit the schools of the Diocese and to attend school sponsored activities. During school hours, all parents and visitors entering the school property, other than to deliver or to pick up the child, must first go to the school office, sign in and obtain a visitor’s badge. Obtaining a school badge does not allow an individual to disrupt a teacher during class time or visit the class room during class. In order to visit the classroom during class, written permission from the principal stating the reason for the visit must be obtained in advance. Generally, two (2) days’ advance notice is required, but if circumstances permit and the reasons are warranted, principals may establish either a longer or shorter period. The principal will respond to the request either approving the request with possible restrictions or denying the request. Teachers are to refer any parent visiting the classroom without the approval of the Principal to the school office and the parent will be asked to leave the school immediately.
An individual who (1) has been convicted of sex related crimes or a crime involving a minor and (2) does not have a child or grandchild attending the school is not welcome on the school property or to attend school sponsored activities. A parent or grandparent of a child attending the school and who (1) has been previously convicted of a sex related crime or a crime involving a minor and (2) wants to visit the school or to attend a school sponsored activity must submit a written request to the principal prior to the anticipated visit. Generally, at least five (5) school-days’ advance notice is required and the request must provide the school with written documentation concerning each such conviction, including but not limited to all details concerning probationary status or restrictions. The principal will respond to the request either approving the request with restrictions or denying the request. If the individual is allowed to come on to the school property or to attend a school sponsored activity, the school will provide the individual with the written conditions for the visit, which may include supervision by school personnel during the time of the visit. If the individual fails to comply with the written conditions established by the school, then the individual will be denied permission to be on school property and/or to attend school sponsored activities.
Companies who provide contracted services to the school are required to give letters of recommendation on behalf of each contracted employee as well as provide appropriate documentation that each employee has completed a criminal background check. Under no circumstances will a company send the school a contracted employee who has been previously convicted of a crime involving a minor. Failure by companies providing contracted services to comply with these procedures and the safe environment policy as established by the Diocese of Fort Worth may be considered breach of contract and result in termination of the contract.
More detail regarding this issue can be obtained in the Diocese of Fort Worth Safe Environment Policy and Code of Conduct.
STUDENT INSURANCE
All students should be covered by emergency medical insurance. During the first week of school, an insurance policy is offered to those who need this coverage.
TELEPHONE/CELL PHONES
Students will not be called to the telephone during class hours. Phone messages may be left with the school secretary in an emergency situation. Arrangements concerning transportation, lunch, and after school plans need to be made before the school day begins. A member of the staff will call a student’s parents when detention is to be served.
St. Mary’s School is not responsible for lost, stolen, or broken cell phones as students bring them on campus at their own risk. Cell phones are to be put in the students’ backpacks when they enter the school each morning. They are not to be carried from class to class during the school day and can only be used at school with permission. Students who incorrectly use cell phones will be assigned to in-school suspension.
TUITION
Tuition is payable over a ten month period. The first payment is due in August and the final payment in May. A 12-month tuition payment plan is available but a written request for this must be submitted to the school office. When an account has not been paid for two months, a meeting will be held with the principal to discuss the matter. A student will not be permitted to remain in class if the account becomes more than three months delinquent. Tuition information, fee schedules, and financial assistance information may be obtained in the school office. St. Mary’s School has Diocesan and local funds available for financial assistance. Interested parents must request this and submit the proper documentation at the time of the request. In addition an auto-draft payment method is available. Interested parents should contact the school office for information. School records will not be released to another school if money is owed. Payments may be brought to the office or mailed.
LITURGICAL CELEBRATIONS
St. Mary's School believes that the liturgy is the center of Christian life. Students in grades K-8 are required to attend Mass on Thursday, Holy Days of Obligation, and other days if necessary. Students in K3 and K4 will attend Mass on designated days, on Holy Days of Obligation and special days during the liturgical year. These days will be noted on the ELC calendars that are sent home. Students must wear blue and white or Parker plaid uniforms on Mass day. They are expected to actively participate in liturgical celebrations as great effort is made to make these meaningful to children. Parents are always welcome to attend.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
ADULT BEHAVIOR
St. Mary’s School believes that parents are the first and most important teacher their children have. Therefore, it is important for parents to remember that they are role models for all of the students with whom they come in contact. Behavior at extra-curricular activities is visible to both students and adults from this community as well as the visiting one. This behavior can have an adverse impact on the reputation of St. Mary’s School as well as give the wrong message to young people concerning appropriate adult behavior. Parents are asked to keep this in mind and exhibit acceptable behavior at all times.
In addition, adults are asked to remember basic rules of courtesy when interacting with staff members, other parents, etc. Discussing school employees and/or school issues with others often results in incorrect information being disseminated throughout the community. Please call the school office if there are questions concerning St. Mary’s School.
ADVISORY COUNCIL
The Advisory Council is responsible for giving advice concerning school issues. The council is composed of elected members who are both Catholic and Protestant, a Home and School Association representative, the pastor, the principal, a representative of the staff, and the business manager. Parents who wish to bring a matter to the council’s attention should submit the item in writing to the council president at least ten days prior to the meeting so the issue can be added to the monthly agenda. Parents are welcome to attend the council meetings which are held on the second Monday of each month at the school. Only agenda items are eligible for discussion.
BOOSTER CLUB
St. Mary’s School offers the junior high students the opportunity to participate in volleyball, ,basketball, track and field, and cheerleading. The parents of these students are automatically considered members of the Booster Club. Other people are welcome to be a part of the Booster Club as well. When the coaches of the various sports need help, the members of the Booster Club will be called on to provide this assistance. There is a place on the Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet for people to indicate what kind of help they would be interested in providing.
FALL FESTIVAL
Various committees which include parents, school staff, and volunteers organize and run the Fall Festival which is held the last Sunday in September and earns revenue for the school. Every family in the school and most in the parish help with the Fall Festival. Since each family is asked to serve ten volunteer hours per year, this is one way to reach this goal.
Each school family is expected to give $15.00 to purchase the meat that is cooked and served for the Fall Festival dinner. This money needs to be submitted to the school office prior to the event.
SCHOOL MEETINGS
The principal must be informed of all meetings that are scheduled. This includes parent meetings, athletic meetings, Home and School Association meetings, Fall Festival meetings, etc. An agenda should be submitted to the principal prior to the meeting if one is available.
FUND RAISERS
The Fall Festival is the only fund raiser that is approved by St. Mary’s School. All other fund raisers must have the prior approval of the principal. Under no circumstances can any individual benefit from a fund raiser held by any organization associated with St. Mary’s School.
Fund raisers organized to pay for unauthorized overnight field trips are not under the jurisdiction of St. Mary’s School, and no individual is authorized to use the school’s name to raise such funds.
HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
All teachers and parents of children who attend St. Mary's School are members of the Home and School Association. Parish members are also invited to participate. This organization provides a vital link between parents, teachers, and the school. Meetings and activities sponsored by the Home and School Association are held throughout the school year.
KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE PROGRAM
Diocesan guidelines require all adults who come into contact with students to help create and maintain a “safe environment” for them. Therefore the Diocese expects these adults to participate in the Keeping Children Safe Program. This program requires the participating adults to submit to a background check and attend the Keeping Children Safe training. The initial training is three hours in length and must be updated every three years. All sessions after the initial one are two hours long. Every volunteer must participate in this program, and each parent is encouraged to participate. For more information concerning these training sessions, contact Annette Fuhrmann at 665-5395, ext. 104 or email her at afuhrmann@sbcglobal.net.
VOLUNTEERS/ VOLUNTEER HOURS
Diocesan guidelines require all volunteers to help create and maintain a “safe environment” for children by submitting to a background check and attending the Keeping Children Safe training once every three years. For the next new volunteer training or volunteer update training, contact Annette Fuhrmann at 665-5395, ext. 104 or email her at afuhrmann@sbcglobal.net.
Each family is asked to donate ten volunteer hours per year to St. Mary’s School. There are many ways for families to get involved with activities at the school. Parents can help with classroom parties, field trips, sports events, the Fall Festival, Field Day, etc.
STAFF INFORMATION
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
All students will be supervised by the staff at school events on and off of the campus. Students are to obey school regulations at all times. All students on campus after school hours must be supervised by a staff member. Under no circumstances are any children to be left unsupervised in any room or facility on the campus.
TEACHER AVAILABILITY
A parent may call the office or contact the teacher to schedule a conference before or after school. Teachers are also available to have conferences during their conference times. These appointments can also be scheduled through the office or directly with the teachers.
Emailing a teacher is a convenient way of communication. It does not, however, take the place of a face-to-face conversation. Conferences are still the best way to communicate with a staff member.
STUDENT COUNCIL
St. Mary's students are encouraged to participate in the Student Council. Two faculty members sponsor this group. Representatives from each grade (1-8) are elected to serve. Officers of the Student Council are elected by the students. All of the candidates who sign up to run for an office are required to give a campaign speech to the student body. Campaign posters are permitted but must be in good taste. Meetings are held as needed.
The members of the Student Council must exhibit exemplary conduct and maintain passing grades. Students who fail to do so will be denied the right to participate in Student Council activities. Habitual offenders will be replaced.
After reading the handbook, please sign and return the following forms. The forms are due one week after the school year begins. The principal may amend this handbook when necessary during the school year. Parents will be notified of any changes made to the handbook.
Attachment 1: Permission for Publication
This form is required in order for the school to be able to print or publish anything involving a student. This includes newspaper items, promotional materials, website photographs, etc.
Attachment 2 : Waiver of Liability
This form is a waiver of liability so your child may travel to and/or participate in extracurricular activities.
Attachment 3: Transportation Policy and Volunteer Driver Information Sheet
This explains the transportation policy as set forth by the Diocese of Ft. Worth. Parents who plan to transport students during the school year for any reason must complete and return the Volunteer Driver Information Sheet. All information on this sheet will be kept confidential.
Attachment 4: Acceptable Use Policy; Internet Terms, Conditions, and Regulations.
On-Line Social Media, The Minimum Social Media Requirements
This explains the internet policy for St. Mary's School. There are two portions included that must be signed and returned.
Attachment 5: Agreement for Student Handbook
This form needs to be signed by a parent and the student.
Attachment 6: Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet
This form needs to be filled out and signed before it is returned to school.
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