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2006-2007 Student Handbook
7.1 – 7.2 Grading System 7.3 Report Cards 7.4 Mid-Term Reports 8.1.1 Admissions 8.2 Tuition Policy
18.1 Elem. Regulations 18.2 HS Regulations
1. MISSION STATEMENT
St. Joseph School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at St. Joseph School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race; color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its education policies, admission policies, scholarship or loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs. 6.1.The Administrator (Principal) The Administrator is responsible for all phases of the school’s operation delegating responsibility to all members of the faculty and staff as necessary.
The homeroom is the basic administrative unit of the high school. Upon entering high school, each student is assigned to a homeroom of approximately thirty students. Routine matters are taken care of during this period. Reports from Student Council representatives are usually given during homeroom period. 6.4.The School BookkeeperThe school bookkeeper has custody of all activity funds. Various student organizations use the school banking facilities; all invoices and statements are paid through this account. All items purchased are charged to the school ONLY after a Purchase Order has been issued by the school bookkeeper.
In order to maintain full accreditation by the Department of Education of the State of Louisiana, the school requires students to meet minimum requirements for graduation. 7.1.Grading System and Explanation (High School) Grade Honor Courses Grade Scale Points Grade Points A 94-100 4 5 B 86-93 3 4 C 76-85 2 3 D 70-75 1 2 F Below-70 0 0
7.2.Grading System (Elementary) Grade Grade Scale Points A 94-100 4 B 86-93 3 C 76-85 2 D 70-75 1 F Below70 0
7.3.Report CardsReport cards provide a permanent record of the student’s achievement. It is a device available to the students and parents for keeping a progressive record. Report cards are issued every nine weeks; however, only the final average of the course is recorded on the cumulative record of the student. If a student should have an error on his report card, he should contact the teacher immediately for appropriate changes, especially if a class is omitted. If the student should have an “I” on his report card, the teacher should be consulted for the deficiency that indicates his work is incomplete. If an “I” is not removed from the student’s report card, it automatically becomes an “F” on the next 9-week report.
7.4.Mid-Term ReportsMid-term reports are for the purpose of reporting a student’s progress to his parents. This report is supplementary to the regular report card issued at the end of each nine weeks. The mid-term report is issued to all students at the end of four and one-half weeks after the regular reporting period.
7.5.Make-Up ExaminationStudents are allowed to make up work missed due to an excused absence. Work must be made up promptly and work assigned before the excused absence is due upon the students return to classes. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements for missed work upon their return. If arrangements are not made within three days the students will be given a failing grade on the work missed.
7.6.Final ExaminationsBoth mid-term and final examinations are obligatory for all students. If the student should fail to take an exam and subsequently fail to take a make-up exam, the course grade is “F”.
7.7.Grading Policy (High School) 1. A minimum of six tests or grades is given per nine-week period. 2. Averaging grades for a nine-week period, the semester, and the session is as follows: a. A grade point average of not less than “1” is required as the passing mark. b. When a student’s average is above “1”, a fraction of less than one-half is discarded and a fraction of one-half or more is counted as the equivalent of one. 3. Procedure for determining the nine-week grade. a. The nine-week grade is the responsibility of the teacher and shall be based on the student’s work. 4. Procedure for determining the semester grade. a. Determine whether a student is eligible for a passing grade for the semester. The semester grade is determined from the average of the first nine-weeks, the second nine weeks and the examination. b. Average the grade points earned for the two nine-week periods with the grade points earned on the semester examination. 5. Procedure for determining the session grade. a. The final grade will be established by the average of the first nine-weeks, the second nine weeks, first semester examination, third nine-weeks, fourth nine weeks and second semester examination. b. In a semester a student having a passing grade in a subject may earn one-half unit of credit unless prohibited by Bulletin 741. 6. All students are required to take final exams except for seniors who have the required average.
7.8.Grading Policy (Elementary) 1. Procedure for determining the nine-week grade: a. A minimum of six tests or grades is given per nine-week period. b. The nine-week grade is the responsibility of the teacher and is based on the student’s work. 2. Procedure for determining the semester grade: a. The first semester grade is determined by averaging the grade points earned for the first nine-week period and the second nine-week period. b. The second semester grade is determined by averaging the grade points earned for the third nine-week period and the fourth nine-week period. c. A grade point average of not less than 1.0 is required as the passing mark. When a student’s average is above 1.0, a fraction of less than 0.5 is discarded: and a fraction of 0.5 or more is counted as the equivalent of 1.0 an average of less than 1 is an “F” (example: 0.5 = F). 3. Procedure for determining the session grade (grade for the year): a. To be eligible for a passing grade for the session, a student must have passed both semesters. b. The session grade is determined by averaging the quality points earned for the four nine-week periods. (see #2-c) c. Semester and session grades are determined by averaging the letter grades given for the marking periods.
7.9.Dropping and/or Adding a Course (High School) If a student finds it necessary to change from one course to another, this must be done before the completion of the second week of each semester. No course may be dropped or added after that time except in case of extreme necessity and then only with the approval of the principal. If, for disciplinary reasons, a student must be dropped from a course, he will be disciplined and will lose that credit. A student having a legitimate reason for dropping a course receives no grade on the permanent record before or immediately after the first quarter of the semester. Students are not allowed to drop or add a course in the second and fourth quarter.
7.10.Academic Probation (High School) Students who are notified at the end of the school year that they are on academic probation have summer school to remove the probation or are not allowed to return.
7.11.HomeworkEffective study habits: Plan: Assign a definite time, of at least two hours each day for study at home: utilize study periods and library facilities in school. Keep a list of assignments in a notebook and take home all necessary books, papers and other materials. Place: Have a definite place at home to study away from distractions with all necessary books, papers, and materials available. Do not attempt to study while conversing or viewing the television. Procedure: Be certain you understand the assignment when the teacher gives it. Read the entire assignment over rapidly to grasp the basic content, relationships, and details. Close the book and mentally outline the material and ideas contained in the lesson. Review the entire assignment.
7.12.Honor Roll At the end of each quarter a Principal’s list is posted. This list includes students who make all “A’s”, including conduct. Also, a “B” honor roll is posted. This list includes students with grades no lower than a “B”, including conduct.
7.13.TranscriptsTranscripts needed for transfer, military use, scholarship consideration, and college applications or prospective employer information may be requested from the office. Transcripts are sent only when all debts are finalized. A student may request the first copy of his transcript at no charge. A senior who is accepted at one or more colleges should request that his supplementary transcript of final grades be sent to the college where he plans to enroll. Other colleges accepting him should be notified of his final decision.
7.14.Valedictorian and Salutatorian (High School) Candidates for valedictorian and salutatorian must have carried a minimum of 24 credits. To qualify for either honor, the student must complete the last two years’ work while enrolled at St. Joseph School. Cumulative grade point average is used to determine the class rank. However, the number of credits pursued, the quality of the program of the study chosen by the student, and factors of literary awards are weighed by the Administrative Council to determine the valedictorian and salutatorian for the graduating class.
7.15.Valedictorian and Salutatorian (Elem.) The student registered at the beginning of the scholastic year, and achieves full year attendance, with the highest average during his 8th grade year, receives the valedictory award. The student with the second highest average receives the salutatory award.
7.16.Retention of Elementary StudentsStudents will be retained in their present grade when they: 1. Fail two or more major subjects 2. Fail one major and two minor subjects 3. Fail three minor subjects 4. Miss more than 20 days in the school year, regardless of grades. Exceptions, such as illnesses, must be verified in writing by a physician and approved by the school.
MAJORS: Religion, Language Arts, English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, and Reading MINORS: Health, PE, Spelling, Music, Foreign Language, and Art
7.17.Conditional Promotion 1. If a student fails one major subject, successful completion of that subject in summer school is required for that student to be promoted to the next grade. 2. If a student fails two minor subjects, summer school is required in one of the subjects for that student to be promoted to the next grade. 3. Students who are promoted conditionally and have brought their achievement up to grade level, through successful completion of summer school, are placed in the next grade in the fall, but they are allowed to remain there only if performing satisfactorily on that level at the end of the first nine weeks. In the event students’ performance is not satisfactory on that grade level, these students may at that time be asked to repeat the previous grade.
St. Joseph School follows the Pupil Progression Plan for Avoyelles Catholic Schools, which is available upon request.
7.18.Promotion Requirements A student’s standing as a sophomore, junior, or senior depends upon the credits accumulated. A student must meet at least the minimum requirements to be promoted: Promotion to 10th grade – 6.0 credits Promotion to 11th grade – 11.5 credits Promotion to 12th grade – 17.5 credits A total of 24 credits is required for graduation with a St. Joseph School diploma.
7.19.Present Graduation Requirements for Each Year Units Theology I, II, III, IV............................................................................ 4 (except for transfer students) English I, II, III, IV, or Business English........................................... 4 Health Education.............................................................................. ½ Physical Education ......................................................................... 1 ½ Algebra I,........................................................................................... 3 Along with two of the following: Algebra II, Honors Mathematics, Geometry, or Financial Math Biology.............................................................................................. 3 Along with two of the following: Physical Science, Chemistry, Honors Biology, Physics, Biology II, or Environmental Science Civics, American History ................................................................ 3 Along with one of the following: World History, World Geography, or Honors History Electives........................................................................................... 5 Total 24 *Some upper level courses have prerequisites that must be met.
7.20.Honors Courses Honors courses for the high school are announced at the beginning of each school year. An average of no less than a “B” is required in each previous prerequisite course. The principal only in extreme situations may grant exceptions.
7.21.Correspondence Courses Correspondence courses are accepted only with permission of the Administration.
7.22.Withdrawal When it becomes necessary for a student to withdraw from school, he should report with a parent to the Principal’s office requesting permission for him to withdraw. The student is issued a withdrawal form to be filled in by each of the student’s teachers. After this form is completed, the student reports back to the office for the signatures of the principal and the bookkeeper. The principal confers with every student who plans to withdraw.
8.1.Registration Procedures
A child who will be four years of age on or before September 30th of the current school year may enter Pre-K. No Pre-K student is allowed to bring bottles or pacifiers to school. All children entering Pre-K must be potty trained. A child who will be five years of age on or before September 30th of the current school year may enter kindergarten. The following data is obligatory before registration will be accepted: 1. Certificate of Baptism 2. Official State Birth Certificate (not hospital record of birth). 3. Student Health Form verified by the doctor or the Health Unit that all Immunizations are complete. 4. Transcript 5. Letter of recommendation 6. Interview with parent and student for grades 5-12th New students requesting admittance for grades 1-8th must present the entire above prior to admittance. However, these students may be tested to determine strengths and weaknesses in mathematics, reading, and related areas. Students may then be placed in their appropriate grade level or denied admittance.
8.1.2. New High School Students Transcript of subjects, grades and recommendations are needed to determine if a student is eligible. NO student will be accepted at St. Joseph School who has been expelled from any other school.
St. Joseph School tuition is a twelve-month policy. The first tuition installment is due for the new school year beginning in June with the last payment due in May, for a total of 12 months tuition. June and July tuition shall not exceed more than $220.00 per family. All installments shall be due and payable no later than the 10th of each month. Accounts paid after the 10th of each month are considered delinquent and shall accrue a late charge of 10% of the balance due. Tuition accounts delinquent for 60 days, are given written notice and delivered by U.S. mail to the last known address, stating that the account is due and payable in full, within 14 days. Failure to satisfy the account in full is grounds for the immediate suspension of students affected by delinquent accounts. Further accounts that are delinquent more than twice in any one year are grounds for demanding full payment in advance at registration for each school year thereafter.
9.1.Permission to Leave and /or Enter School Permission to leave school and/or enter school is obtained from the office. Whenever possible, a parent should personally sign the student in or out. If parents are out of town, the adult in charge of the student may give permission. Parents are urged to moderate their requests for students to leave or arrive late to school. Partial attendance should be limited to medical and other important reasons. Requests, such as haircut appointments or leaving to get articles forgotten at home, are not granted. Students who frequently miss part of a day of school must schedule a conference, which includes himself, at least one of his parents, and the Principal. On an individual basis, with the express written permission of the principal, seniors who can obtain the credits necessary to graduate, based on courses offered prior to sixth period, will be allowed to dismiss at 1:05 PM, provided they can prove they are enrolled in a vo-tech or college course; or for job related reasons.
9.2.Absence Permits Absences from school are for personal illness of a student, for a death in his immediate family, and for authorized school activities. Only the principal can excuse an absence. Personal trips or help needed at home are considered truancy, and no make-up schoolwork is assigned. Work missed because of suspension may not be made up for grade purposes. Work missed during an excused absence may be made up. However, a student can never completely make up a day missed from school. A student should make every effort to maintain a perfect record of attendance. Absences are limited to 10 per semester per class. Anyone missing more than this number, other than for reason of serious illness or a death in the family, fails for the semester. A parent of an absent student should inform the office of the absence by 8:30 on the morning of the absence by calling 318-922-3401. When the student returns to school, he should have a note explaining the absence. A student returning to school after an illness lasting longer than three days should be physically capable of remaining in school for the entire day, should have recovered completely form the illness, and must provide a physicians note allowing the student to return.
9.3.Tardy Permits Students are marked tardy if they are not in their assigned place when the bell rings. Between class periods there is an interval for moving to the next class. Students are tardy for the next class or study period if they are not in the assigned place at the end of this interval. Personal illness is an excusable reason for tardiness. Other reasons, with few exceptions, are inexcusable. Students who are tardy must have a note from a parent. Phone calls are NOT acceptable. Student Tardiness Students reporting to school late must report to the office. They will then be given tardy slip for admittance to class. 2nd period through the end of the day: Teachers must record accurately and fairly student tardiness (9th –12th grades). Students are tardy to class if they are not in their assigned places before the bell rings. Students should be sent to the office so they can be given a tardy slip. Students earn the following consequences for repeated tardiness: 3rd unexcused tardy—meeting with parents and principal 4th unexcused tardy—detention 5th unexcused tardy—in school suspension
9.4.Truancy Truancy is absence from class or school for any portion of a period or day without proper permission form home and school.
9.5.Illness and Medicine Students are not allowed to have any drugs, including prescribed or over the counter, in their possession on the school grounds, nor give or administer the same to another. Any medication to be taken at school should be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by the issuing pharmacist with and RX, student name, dosage, and administration instructions and left in the main office and administered under proper supervision. Any student who intentionally violates the above shall be suspended or expelled at the discretion of the Administration.
Announcements concerning student activities must be written and signed by the sponsor of the organization and approved in the office. All announcements for the elementary school must be in the office by 8:00. All announcements for the high school must be in the office by 8:00.
The Diocese mandates at a minimum cost Accident Insurance. This program provides accident coverage for all students during programmed school hours, while traveling to and from school, and while attending or participating in school sponsored activities, both on and off school premises. The coverage is on a full excess basis, that is, benefits are payable after coordination with any other group hospitalization which the family may have. If no insurance is in place, this insurance becomes the primary coverage and pays in full all usual and reasonable charges. Claim forms may be obtained in the school office. School personnel must certify all claims.
The school assemblies are for the education and entertainment of the students. Their conduct during assemblies is as important to the program as the parts played by those on the stage. Their actions determine their enjoyment and frequency of assemblies thereafter.
A student whose home address or telephone number changes is required to report this information to the office as soon as the change is known.
14. Cell Phones and other electronic devices These objects are not allowed without permission from the administration. Any violation will be dealt with directly by the administration.
15. Internet Acceptable Use Policy The purpose of the Internet is to provide information about various topics to the students and staff. All persons using the Internet agree to do so in an appropriate manner. Internet use is privilege, which may be lost by persons abusing this privilege. All Internet users agree to: 1. Respect the privacy of other users; for example, users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or represent themselves as another user. 2. Respect the legal protection provided by copyright and license to program and data. 3. Respect the integrity of the computing systems; for examples, users shall not intentionally develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computer systems and/or damage or alter the software components of a computer or computing system. 4. Respect the values of the Catholic Church within all transmissions of material on the Internet; this includes but is not limited to, pictures, sounds, videos, and text. Objectionable material, including pornography and offensive language as determined by staff members, shall not be viewed or transmitted at any time. 5. Respect the rights of others on the Internet. You are expected to follow the generally accepted rules of Network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to the following: a. Be polite. Do not get abusive in your messages to others. b. Use appropriate language. Do not swear; use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language as determined by any staff member. c. Do not reveal personal addresses or phone numbers of self or others, nor misrepresent yourself. d. Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. e. Do not use the Network in such a way that you would disrupt the use of the network by others. f. Do not join any list servers, unless specifically directed to do so by an instructor. 6. The use of chat rooms are only allowed during teacher directed activities. Unauthorized chat room use will not be acceptable. The user violating this acceptable use policy will face disciplinary action. Depending on the nature and the severity of the violation, possible disciplinary actions include: a. Users may be banned from further use of the Internet. b. Users may be required to make full financial restitution for any unauthorized expenses or damages incurred. c. Users may face additional disciplinary action consistent with the student handbook. d. The situation may be referred to the appropriate authorities. e. Nothing herein shall be construed as providing that the school must find a violation in order to ban a user from further use of the Network and school reserves the right to ban a user from the Network for any reason whatsoever or for no reason.
Helping students to develop self-discipline and to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner is a major behavioral objective of St. Joseph School. While discipline does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure for it is the training that develops self-control, character formation, orderliness, and efficiency. Discipline is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people. The goal of any disciplinary policy is to improve self-discipline. Alternatives emphasize strategies in modifying student behavior and avoiding suspension and/or expulsion from school.
The administration uses a four-option approach to handle discipline problems. Options are listed in the order of least serious offenses to most serious offenses. Repeated infractions of the same category will lead to progressive punishment. Option 1 --- Reprimand – Counseled Option 2 --- After school detention Option 3 --- In School Suspension or Out of School Suspension Option 4 --- Expulsion
Examples: A. Smoking / Chewing Tobacco or Possession a. First Offense – Option 2 b. Second Offense – In school suspension c. Third Offense – 3 day out of school suspension
B. Assaulting School Personnel (including substitutes) a. First Offense – Indefinite suspension pending expulsion hearing.
C. Threatening School Personnel and/or Students a. (Verbal threat or profanity directed toward employees or student of the school) b. First Offense – Option 3 c. Second Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 3-4
D. Stealing a. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3 (restitution shall be made)
E. Possession / Shooting Fireworks or Stink Bombs a. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3 b. Second Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 3 c. Third Offense – Suspension (3 day out of school)
F. Bus Disturbance – (punishment based on infractions as stated under 1-9 in this chart) a. First Offense – 1-5 days off bus b. Second Offense – 1-10 days off bus c. Third Offense – 1-15 days off bus d. Fourth Offense – suspension/ expulsion off bus G. Refusing to Follow a Direct Order a. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 1-3 b. Second Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3 c. Third Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 3-4
H. Weapons a. If a student is found to be in possession of a weapon including but not limited to firearms, knives, explosive devices or any item that can be used to threaten or injure as determined by the administration, that student will be indefinitely suspended and be subject to expulsion. This policy covers possession of weapons on or in the vicinity of the school or at any school sponsored activity, whether those weapons are on the students’ person, in a vehicle, or otherwise in the students’ possession.
I. Drugs a. Any student found to be in possession of or under the influence of an illegal drug will be suspended indefinitely from school and a parent conference will be held. Expulsion from school may occur.
J. Fighting a. Instigator b. First Offense – 3 day suspension c. Second Offense – Suspension Pending expulsion hearing d. Participant e. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 1-3 f. Second Offense – Administrative Discretion: Option 2-3 g. Third Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 3-4
K. Vandalism of School or Student Property a. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3 b. Second Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 3-4
L. Cutting Class/ Leaving Campus / Leaving class without permission a. First Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 1-3 b. Second Offense – Administrative Discretion: Option 2-3 c. Third Offense – Administrative Discretion: Option 3-4
M. Tardiness School / Class a. First Offense – Option 1 b. Second Offense – Option 1-2 c. Third Offense – Option 2-3 d. Fourth Offense – Option 2-3 e. (Administrative discretion will be utilized regarding time span)
N. Cheating a. No Credit “F” Grade b. First Offense – Option 2 c. Second Offense – Option 3-4 d. (Administrative discretion will be utilized regarding time span)
O. Speeding or Careless Driving Around Campus a. First Offense – Option 1-2 b. Second Offense – Restricted from driving to school
P. Violation of Uniform Code a. First Offense – Option 1-2 b. Second Offense – Option 2 c. Third Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3 d. (Administrative discretion will be utilized regarding time span)
Q. Failure to follow classroom teacher’s rules a. First Offense – Option 1-2 b. Second Offense – Administrative discretion: Option 2-3
Any violation not covered by the above is left to the discretion of the principal or a designee.
Please note that any three detentions will result in a one day in-school suspension. Six detentions within one school year will result in a 3 day out of school suspension and a parental meeting with the principal. Any further detentions may result in expulsion at the discretion of the disciplinary committee.
16.2.Use of Alcohol and DrugsItems below specify the policies of St. Joseph School and pertain at all time to all students while enrolled: A. Alcohol – A student will be suspended if he consumes, sells, distributes, or possesses an alcoholic beverage on school property, at a school function, or if he appears there in possession of, or after consuming any such beverage. A repetition of this offense or serious alcohol abuse makes the offender subject to expulsion. B. Unlawful Use of Drugs or Hallucinogens On recommendation of the school administration, a student who is apprehended by any school official, or arrested by a law officer, may be expelled for the unlawful use of, unlawful possession of, or sale of marijuana, barbiturates, heroin, or any derivative thereof, sedatives, or any stimulatory hallucinatory drug or compound, or for the offense of being an accessory thereto, either on or off school property. 16.3.Disciplinary Probation Students who are notified before the start of the school term that they are on probation follow a different set of guidelines for expulsion. For them, one suspension, or any serious inappropriate behavior may result in expulsion.
16.4.Expulsion A student who receives two suspensions is referred to the Administrative Council for an expulsion hearing. Their parents/guardians and others concerned or interested or affected or involved parties are required to attend. Those concerned are then notified of the Administrator’s decision.
A. Statement on Student Dignity St. Joseph School expects all students to conduct themselves with dignity and with respect for fellow students, faculty, and others. Harassing anyone, including sexual or racial harassment, will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment includes: 1. Making submission to unwelcome sexual advances, submission to requests for sexual favors, or submission to other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. 2. Creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive classroom environment, through such conduct.
Racial harassment includes: 1. Making negative references to a person’s cultural or racial background. 2. Creating a hostile or offensive classroom environment through such conduct.
Other harassment of any nature includes any conduct, which may reasonably be offensive to others in an educational organization. Some examples: making threats, name-calling, feigning physical attack, lewd or obscene gestures, circulating derogatory notes.
B. Student Dignity Complaint Procedure Students who believe they have been subjected to harassment should report it immediately to their teacher/president/principal, with whom the student feels most comfortable. Each report will be given serious consideration and investigated promptly. Appropriate action will be taken. 1. Action taken on behalf of the complainant could result in penalties ranging from oral reprimand, detention, suspension, counseling, or expulsion. 2. Retaliation against complainants is absolutely forbidden. The penalties for retaliation could result in expulsion. C. Concern / Complaint Procedure If a parent has a concern that arises out of a classroom situation or a disciplinary action, the following procedure and time line should be followed. Step 1. The parent is asked to make an appointment with the teacher involved to discuss the concern and resolve it, if possible. This step should take place in a timely fashion in relation to the date of the incident. Step 2. The parent is to contact the school principal within five school days of the meeting with the teacher if they wish to appeal the teacher’s decision. Step 3. If the parent does not agree with the principal’s decision then they may appeal to the pastor of Mater Dolorosa Church. This appeal is to be in writing and done so within five school days after meeting with the principal.
Uniforms may be purchased from the following places of business: CUSTOM UNIFORM & MONOGRAMING IN BUNKIE, call 318-346-2640, (next door to Piggly Wiggly) are authorized to MONOGRAM the St. Joseph School logo: Elementary boy’s polo shirts grades PreK-8th (available only at Custom Uniform) 5th – 12th grade girl’s white oxford blouses 9th –12th grade boys light blue oxford shirts CUSTOM UNIFORM has only a limited number of jumpers & skirts for elementary girls YOUNG FASHIONS IN ALEXANDRIA, should have our elementary jumpers & skirts in stock, call 318-445-4844 before going. They may also have a limited supply of high school skirts. PARKER’S OF HOUSTON, stocks our high school girls’ skirts and will ship them directly to your home if you call in an order (800-736-1511). Navy school uniform slacks, pants, & shorts are available in most department stores; just make sure they are school uniform brands (different names) however not Dockers or Duckhead, or anything that fades. High school boys navy clip-on ties may be purchased in any department store. PreK-4th grade girls white button-down front blouses can be purchased in any department store.
18.1.Uniform Regulations (Elem.) The uniform must be respected; it must be worn in a neat and attractive manner. Shirts and blouses must remain tucked in at all times. Girls Grades PreK-4th
Uniform – St. Joseph PLAID JUMPER and white blouse. Jumpers are available at Young Fashions in Alexandria. Girls in grades PreK-4th may wear regulation shorts throughout the year except on Mass days. Uniform slacks may also be worn throughout the school year. White blouses, tucked in, are worn with the shorts and slacks. Jumpers are mandatory on Mass days. Belts must be worn with slacks and shorts form 1st grade up. Shoes – Oxfords, loafers or tennis shoes preferably with flat bottoms, no stacked heels, no grooves or ridges. NO SANDALS OR SLIP ON SHOES. Socks – Navy blue or white socks only. No ankle socks with jumpers. Sweaters – Navy blue or white only, NO BLUE JEAN JACKETS. Sweatshirts – St. Joseph School sweatshirts purchased only from the school. No others are allowed. Hair Accessories – Blue or white only.
Girls - Grades 5th – 8th
St. Joseph PLAID SKIRTS are available at Young Fashions in Alexandria. Girls in grades 5 through 8 must also wear a white oxford blouse with the St. Joseph School monogrammed emblem. (Custom Uniform & Monograming in Bunkie is authorized to monogram the St. Joseph shirts and blouses.) Navy uniform regulated slacks may be worn with the white blouse tucked in throughout the school year. Shoes, socks, sweaters, sweatshirts, belts, and hair accessories, same as above. Blouses must be tucked in at all times. The St. Joseph T-shirt must be worn with navy shorts for P.E. classes. All girls in elementary school – NO make-up and NO nail polish. Altering the natural hair color is discouraged. Outlandish styles and drastic color changes are not acceptable.
Boys –All Elementary Grades PreK-8th
Shirts – St. Joseph School Royal Blue POLO shirt with the St. Joseph School monogrammed emblem available at Custom Uniform & Monograming in Bunkie. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. Pants – Dickie navy blue twill pants or school regulation uniform slacks. No Dockers, Duckhead, or other brand slacks that fade are allowed. A black or navy belt must be worn at all times. Boys PreK-4th may wear regulation navy twill shorts throughout the year except on Mass days. St. Joseph T-shirts – Worn only during PE classes for grades 5th – 8th with navy shorts. Shoes – Oxfords, loafers, ankle high dress boots, or tennis shoes with as flat a sole as possible, limited grooves or ridges. No work boots, cowboy boots, or sandals. Sweaters – Navy blue or white. NO BLUE JEAN JACKETS Sweatshirts – St. Joseph School Sweatshirt purchased only from the school. Hair – The hair is to be kept neat, clean, and combed. It is to be styled so that the hair is kept above the eyes, and the ear lobes, and neckline is clearly visible. No beard, mustache, or side-whiskers allowed. No shaven heads or any other outlandish hairstyles. Altering the natural hair color is discouraged. Outlandish styles and drastic color changes are not acceptable.
18.2.Uniform Regulations (High School) The uniform must be respected. It must be worn in a neat and attractive manner. Shirts and blouses must remain tucked in at all times. Male Students – 9th-12th Shoes–Oxfords, loafers, or ankle high dress boots. No work boots, cowboy boots, sandals, or tennis shoes. Parent excuse for not wearing proper shoes is accepted for one day only. After one day a doctor’s excuse is required. Pants– Dickie navy blue twill pants or school regulation uniform slacks. No Dockers, Duckhead, or other brand slacks that fade are allowed. A black or navy belt must be worn at all times. Shirts– Light blue Perma Press oxford shirt with the St. Joseph School monogrammed emblem is available at Custom Monogramming in Bunkie. Shirts must be tucked into pants in at all times. Undershirts-White undershirts only under oxford shirts. Sweatshirt–St. Joseph School Sweatshirt purchased only from school Sweater–Navy blue or white cardigan (button-type or pullover, no designs) Coats – Sport coat or standard type jacket. No blue jean jackets or army fatigues Tie – Navy blue clip-on or zipper tie worn on liturgy days. Hair – The hair is to be kept neat, clean, and combed. It is to be styled so that the hair is kept above the eyes, and the ear lobes and neckline are to be clearly visible. No beard, mustache, or side-whiskers allowed. No shaven heads, or any other outlandish hairstyles. Altering the natural hair color is discouraged. Outlandish styles and drastic color changes are not acceptable. Female Student 9th – 12th
Skirts – Navy skirts may be ordered from Parker’s in Houston at 1-800-736-1511, and will be shipped directly to your home, or they may be available at Young Fashions in Alexandria. No home made skirts allowed! No faded skirts. Skirts have two box pleats in front and two in back with a zipper on the side. Skirts must touch the top of the kneecap when the student is standing. Pants- Navy blue uniform pants may be worn only during the months of November – March. No faded slacks. Blouse-White oxford blouse, long or short sleeves, button front, with the St. Joseph emblem available at Custom Uniform & Monogramming in Bunkie. Blouses must be tucked inside the skirt at all times. This is the only regulation blouse that may be worn. Socks – Navy blue or white knee or regular socks. NO LOGOS. Shoes –No tennis shoes or sandals: No open toe or open heel shoes or stacked heels. Suggestions: oxfords or loafers. Parent excuse for not wearing proper shoes will be accepted for one day only. After one day a doctor’s excuse is required. Sweater–Navy blue or white cardigan sweater (button type or pullover) NOT TIGHT, MAY BE WORN IN CLASS. Sweatshirt–St. Joseph School Sweatshirt purchased only from school. No others are allowed. Coats – Regulation same as for boys. Hair – Altering the natural hair color is discouraged. Outlandish styles and drastic color changes are not acceptable. Hair Accessories – Blue or white only. Make-up – In moderation only.
18.3.Body Piercing A maximum of 2 piercing per ear will be acceptable. No other visible piercing will be permitted. This is valid for PK-12 students.
P.E. uniforms will consist of the St. Joseph School T-shirt, which is purchased through the school. Navy blue shorts for students in grades 5th through high school are required. The shorts must be of an appropriate length which will be monitored by the administration and staff.
The library is opened on a regular schedule, which is announced at the beginning of each school year. The librarian supervises its use and enjoyment. It is also available to patrons and other adults who may wish to use its facilities. The books on the open shelves, when not designated for another use may be checked out for two weeks usually with the privilege of renewal. A nominal charge is assessed for books kept beyond the date due. These charges must be paid promptly, or the student’s right to use the library may be forfeited. The library is to be used for studying, research and reference. It contains books – fiction, and nonfiction, magazines, newspapers, and a file for pamphlets and clippings. The reference books are to be used only in the library and are not to be checked out at any time. The following procedures will serve as guides for the student’s use of the library: 1. Teachers are encouraged to make arrangements with the librarian to send certain groups to the library for special projects or other class work. 2. Every book must be checked out correctly. Value of and cost of books today make loss or theft a very serious personal responsibility. 3. Fines will be levied against students who fail to return books in a timely manner, or who lose or damage books.
1. Enter the serving line and keep your place in the line without crowding or passing. 2. Participation in the school lunch program is mandatory. A student is required to pay for his lunch, whether or not he eats. This is a state requirement. 3. Children who receive free or reduced price meal benefits are treated the same as children who pay for meals. No child will be discriminated against in the food service program. Parents may write the Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250, with any questions. 4. Parents not in agreement with the decision of their lunch cost status have a right to appeal by contacting the School Food Services at the Central Office. 5. Refunds are made only for withdrawal or transfer. To receive a refund, parents must complete the Lunch Refund form provided by the manager. (Handbook of policies for Catholic Schools for Diocese of Alexandria)
A student is prohibited from participating in extracurricular activities if he is: A. Frequently absent from school B. In academic difficulty and / or has a disciplinary problem C. Not in attendance at least one hour prior to release time
Spiritual – Campus Ministry
1. Personal Guidance – A spiritual director is available to all students. Religion instructors are available for guidance or may refer students to other spiritual directors. 2. Weekly Eucharistic Celebration – There is a weekly mass beginning at 8:10 am. 3. Opportunities for confession – The sacrament of Reconciliation is offered during the seasons of Advent and Lent. Students may also contact the pastor to arrange other times for confession opportunities as needed. 4. Christian Services – Some areas for attention include retirement homes, children’s homes, and service agencies.
Basketball, Softball, Baseball, Cross Country, Tennis, and Cheerleading are available for both boys and girls. Eligibility is based upon the rules and regulations from the different associations concerned with athletics. Specifics are provided at the time of recruitment.
23.1.Athletic Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in athletic competition students must earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and must not fail more than one course during any one semester. Students failing to meet this requirement are placed on academic probation. At the next progress report if the students have shown the necessary progress toward the requirement their eligibility will be restored. If at that time, they fail to meet the academic requirements they will be deemed ineligible.
23.2.Cheerleaders (High School) Cheerleaders are selected on a tryout basis. Cheerleaders are selected by a committee. Tryouts are held in April.
23.3.Cheerleaders (Elementary) Cheerleaders are selected from grades 5th through 8th.
23.4.Drug Policy for Student Athletes The following will be the testing procedure for student athletes: 1. Student athletes may be randomly tested at any time by the request of the principal and the athletic department. 2. Testing will require a urine or hair specimen. 3. Students who refuse a test will immediately become ineligible for all athletic participation for one school year. 4. Parents will be notified if their child has tested positive for any abuse or misue of legal or illegal substances. 5. A student athlete who tests positiove will be ineligible for all athletic participation for the school. The student will face disciplinary action from the administration up to and including explusion. 6. Parents may appeal any test result at their expense within 7 days of receiving notification of the student’s failure to pass the drug screen.
24.1.Senior Beta Club The Beta Club promotes achievement, character, leadership, and service. To become a member a student must have a scholastic average of B (minimum of 3.0 – excluding PE) as well as a conduct average minimum of 3.0. 24.2.Junior Beta club To become a member a student must have a scholastic average minimum of 3.0 and a conduct average minimum of 3.0. 24.3.4-H Club This club stresses the importance of using head, heart, hands, and helpfulness. It offers opportunities for students to use their talents in a practical and profitable manner. Various projects may be undertaken in the areas of livestock, home improvements, sewing, needlework, childcare, and many other areas. 24.4.Student Council (High School) The student council is composed of officers elected by the student body, and one representative from each official club, plus the president of each class. The success of the school is a shared responsibility of the faculty and students. The student council coordinates student involvement. 24.5.Terminations from all Clubs including Athletics Before students drop a club including athletics, they must first speak with the principal stating their reason to discontinue participation.
The student parking area will be on the gravel lot next to the gym. Parking should be done in an orderly and safe manner to accommodate all vehicles. No student will be permitted to park at any other location, ie: in front of the rectory. Students will not be allowed to return to their vehicles except in an emergency situation with the approval of the administration once the school day has started. Students who have forgotten daily class work in their vehicle will be allowed to submit it to the teacher after school and have it considered on time.
Asbestos – St. Joseph School is in compliance with state and federal regulations. No friable materials were noted. The report noted that the only non-friable items were the chalkboards and vinyl floors. Non-friable asbestos presents no hazard. As required by law, a copy of the report is available for your reading.
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