Parent/Student Handbook

Mission: To provide a strong spiritual and academic foundation for the students of Beverly and the North Shore
 Dedicated: To plant the seeds of Christian values
 Committed: To make a difference in today’s world

Philosophy

“…the purpose of Catholic education is to communicate Christ to you, so that your attitude toward others will be that of Christ…you will be making major decisions which will affect the whole course of your life. If these decisions reflect Christ’s attitude, then your education will be a success.”
Pope John Paul II
October 3, 1979
Madison Square Garden, New York

The foundation of the Catholic Faith begins in the home. Since we believe that the home has the prime responsibility for communicating Christ to the child through all phases of life, we, the staff of Saint Mary’s, work together with the home to foster, develop, nurture, and strengthen the child in the Catholic Faith.

We recognize the responsibility for the total development of each child – spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical. We make every effort to offer a well-balanced curriculum which provides an academic foundation for life.

We encourage each child to know, accept, and appreciate themselves as unique and important individuals. We also encourage students to achieve their maximum potential and to contribute effectively to the welfare of others at home, at school, and in the wider community.

As a staff, we strive to enable children to cope with daily personal problems. We endeavor to prepare them to make independent, wise decisions based on Gospel values, to be aware of today’s issues and challenges, and to respond to global situations.

We trust that our students, in a Christian climate of joy and love, will continue to grow in Christ

Accreditation

 

Saint Mary School is accredited through the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

 

Admission Policy

Saint Mary School admits students of any race, national, or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Saint Mary School does not discriminate on the basis of race, national and ethnic origin, in the administration of educational policies, admission policies, and other school-administered programs. Students will be accepted for all grades Pre-K through 8 with preference given to members of Saint Mary School who have siblings already enrolled in the school and members of St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish. After initial registration, students from other parishes will be considered.

Saint Mary School shall not discriminate against non-Catholic applicants. Parents/Guardians must agree, on behalf of the student, that the student will attend religion classes and the religion activities conducted in the school. Non-Catholic students whose parents accept the philosophy of Saint Mary School will be accepted on a space available basis.

Students entering Pre-K must be three years of age by August 31st, four years of age by August 31st, or, if entering Kindergarten, five years of age by August 31st.  Students will be conditionally accepted into Kindergarten with full acceptance contingent on displayed readiness on the Kindergarten screening results.

Enrollment of new students seeking admission to Saint Mary School shall be determined by academic records, readiness tests, and standardized test results. All new students will be given a trial period in which to prove himself/herself both socially and academically. If during this trial period there are any problems, a student may be asked to withdraw his/her attendance at Saint Mary School. First time students entering Saint Mary School must submit his/her birth record, baptismal record, and all immunization records. Students transferring from another school should bring his/her last report card, a disciplinary report, and a tuition release from (if transferring from another Catholic school) indicating that there is no outstanding balance due to the sending school.

It is not the policy of Saint Mary School to accept students after the academic year has begun. (It is the sole discretion of the Pastor and the Principal to make any exceptions.)

Tuition Fees

·         Pre-Kindergarten: Two day - $2150 Three day - $2650 Five day - $3600

·         Kindergarten – grade 8

*   Standard tuition rate - $5250

*   Discounted Parishioner Rate* - $4975

 *In order to qualify for the Discounted Parishioner Rate, a family must be registered parishioners of St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish and have attended Mass using the weekly offertory envelopes at least 80% of the Sundays for the previous year. Those who receive the discount, but fail to fulfill the 80% obligation, will be billed each January and expected to reimburse the school. The time frame for compliance is January – December.

Multiple Child Discount: Discount for 2nd, 3rd, 4th child is $50 per child. Please note: This does not apply to Pre-Kindergarten.

Tuition Assistance: Saint Mary School provides financial assistance for families in need of tuition aid. Parents/Guardians are required to fill out the appropriate forms (obtained from the principal) and return them to the principal. Aid is determined by a non-school Financial Aid Committee and is awarded on a needs base only.

Tuition Obligation

Families are offered two options to pay tuition:

·         Option A:  Tuition is paid in full by July 31st

·         Option B:  F.A.C.T.S. monthly payment plan via bank EFT. Payments are budgeted over 10 months beginning in June. Payments can be made on either the 5th or the 20th of the month. There is a $50 non-refundable administrative fee payable to Saint Mary School for the use of this option. This is a separate check from the registration fee.

Registration fee:

A $75 per child non-refundable registration fee (Pre-Kindergarten – Grade 8) is due at the time of registration. New families (Pre-K – 8) to Saint Mary School are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $200 by March 7th. This fee will be applied to tuition.

Calendar Raffle Commitment:

 Each family (Pre-Kindergarten – Grade 8) must agree to sell or purchase a minimum of twenty raffle calendars at a cost of $20 per calendar. Calendar returns must be submitted to the school no later than December 1st.  Parents may chose to sell the calendars or simply opt out for $400 to be paid directly to the school.

Educational Materials Fee:

 A $200 per child non-refundable fee is due May 1st for Kindergarten through Grade 8. The educational materials fee must be paid separately to the school office.

Volunteer Commitment:

 Each family (Kindergarten –Grade 8) commits to 20 hours of volunteer time per year. It is hoped that working together on special projects will offset the cost of education and build community among our parents. Those families who do not intend to fulfill their volunteer commitment will be expected to pay the school $300 in advance in lieu of his/her obligation.

 Student Withdrawal and Refund Policy:

·         Student withdrawal prior to start of school – Full tuition refund

·         Student withdrawal September to October 31st – 50% annual tuition refund

·         Student withdrawal after October 31st – No tuition refund

Parent’s Role in Education

We, at Saint Mary School, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe parents are the primary educators of their children. Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life – physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Your choice of Saint Mary School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life.

Good example is the strongest teacher. Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others. Ideals taught in school are not well rooted in the child unless these are nurtured by the example of good Catholic/Christian morality and by an honest personal relationship with God in your family life.

Once you have chosen to enter into a partnership with us at Saint Mary School, we trust you will be loyal to this commitment. During these formative years (Pre-K to 8), your child needs constant support from both parents and faculty in order to develop his/her moral, intellectual, social, cultural, and physical endowment. Neither parents nor teachers can afford to doubt the sincerity of the efforts of their educational partner in the quest of challenging, yet nourishing, the student to reach his/her potential. It is vital that both parents and teachers remember that allowing oneself to be caught between the student and the other partner will never have positive results. To divide authority between school and home or within the home will only teach disrespect of all authority. If there is an incident at school, you as parents must make investigation of the complete story your first step. Evidence of mutual respect between parents and teachers will model good mature behavior and relationships.

Students are naturally eager to grow and learn. However, sometimes in the process of maturation new interests may cause them to lose focus. As this natural process occurs, the student needs both understanding and discipline. At times, your child may perceive discipline as restrictive. However, it is boundaries and limits which provide a young person with both guidance and security.

It is essential that a child take responsibility for grades he/she has earned and be accountable for homework, long-term assignments, major tests, service projects, and all other assignments. This responsibility also extends to times of absence.

Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.

Parents as Partners

As partners in the educational process at Saint Mary School, we ask parents to:

·         Set rules, times, and limits so that your child:

*   Arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day

*   Is dressed according to the school dress code

*   Completes assignments on time

*   Has lunch (purchased or brought from home) everyday

*   To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher Conferences

*   To see that the student pays for any damage to school books or property due to carelessness or neglect on the part of the student

*   To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy

*   To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers

*   To meet all financial obligations to the school

*   To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health

*   To complete and return to school any requested information promptly

*   To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education

*   To support the religious and educational goals of the school

*   To treat teachers with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems

GENERAL INFORMATION

School Office Hours

The school office is open from 7:45 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. If you wish to make an appointment, please call during these hours. The school telephone number is 978-927-3259.

School Hours

Normal Day

·         Pre-K: 8:15 A.M. – 11:15 A.M.

·         Grades K-8: 8:15 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

Early Release Days

·         Grades K-8: 8:15 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.

ABSENCES – TARDINESS - DISMISSALS

 

Parents are required by law to make a reasonable effort to contact the school on the date a student is absent. Please call the school (978.927.3259) before 8:30am on the date of the absence or leave a message on the answering machine verifying your child is absent. The school is required to contact you at home or work to inquire about a "missing” child. Formal reminders are sent to you when a child has missed 5, 10, and 15 days of school. Upon returning to school, students must bring a note to the teacher explaining the nature of the absence. By law, parents are required to send in a note explaining the child's absence if that absence is to be excused. Entering a classroom late is a disruption to instruction and other students. If students arrive late, they must report to the office before going to class. A note or phone call from the parent explaining the reason for late arrival is requested.

A NOTE FROM A PARENT MUST ACCOMPANY A CHILD AFTER AN ILLNESS OR AN ABSENCE.

If you are having difficulty getting your child to school and desire the services of the school personnel, call 978-927-3259

The following procedure reflects how Saint Mary’s School will approach repeated absences:

·         If a student is absent / tardy 5 times – a telephone call will be made to the parent by the Principal.

·         If a student is absent / tardy 10 times — the Principal will send a letter to the parent.

·         If a student is absent / tardy 15 times - A parent conference will be requested by the Principal. The Pastor will also be notified and the Police Attendance Officer may be asked to visit the home.

·         If a student is absent / tardy 20 times - the Principal will pursue appropriate intervention strategies utilizing outside resources.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

 

Saint Mary’s School offers a safe After School Program Monday – Friday from 2:30-5:30pm. Students in grades K-6 are eligible. We welcome drop-in service for the unexpected times when you need childcare. Contact the school at 978-927-3259 for further information.

 

PRE-KINDERGARTEN EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM

 

An extended day program is offered to pre-kindergarten children. Care is available following the morning session from 11:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. If a child needs care after 2:30 P.M., he or she will be able to go to the after school program in the main building. A calendar will be sent home monthly for you to indicate which days your child will be using. If you have any questions please call (978) 927-0291 after 11:30 A.M.

 

ALLERGIES – COLOGNE/PERFUME – AIR FRESHENERS

 

Due to increased allergic reactions amongst children today and at Saint Mary’s in particular, students shall not wear cologne, perfume or bring air fresheners to school. This includes locker and/or room air fresheners.

 

ATHLETIC PROGRAM

The Athletics Program benefits each participant by promoting, both by example and instruction, such qualities and/or principles as discipline, good sportsmanship, honesty, fairness to others and the ability to work harmoniously as a team to reach certain goals. Above all, the program promotes charity toward others, whether they be team mates or members of an opposing team, under all circumstances.

We trust that all students participating in school athletics will not only learn about their sport, but also have a good time and develop a great school spirit!

Since the goal of any educational institution is academics, all student athletes must be in good academic standing in order to participate in any school athletic program.  "Good Academic standing" means a minimum of a 'C' average or better.  Students who have failed to achieve or maintain a 'C' grade or better in all major academic subjects shall be ineligible to participate in athletics.

Coaches:

Parents and other adults generously volunteer their time and energy to work with our students. Anyone interested in helping in our Athletics Program, please contact the Pastor or the Principal. The assignment of coaches and assistant coaches is subject to the approval of the Pastor and the Principal.

When necessary, coaches may call on grade six students for varsity teams.

Teams

·         Boy’s Basketball

*   Junior Varsity – Grades 5 & 6

*   Varsity - Grades 7 & 8

·         Girl’s Basketball

*   Junior Varsity – Grades 5 & 6

*   Varsity - grades 7 & 8

·         Pep Squad

*   Grades K-4

·         Cross Country Grades 5 - 8

Parents are responsible to see that only the “playing team” members use balls during athletic events. Only participating students are allowed on the playing area during athletic events. There should be no walking back and forth on the court during the game.

For safety reasons, spectators are not allowed to play ball at half time and between games. These times are reserved for our hard working pep squads to entertain you.

Remember that the athletes are children. They are already playing their hardest. Comments from the stands should always be positive and encouraging.

Our coaches and referees dedicate volunteer hours to provide a positive experience for your children. Please refrain from coaching and refereeing from the stands.

Children should attend these events with an adult. Parents are expected to monitor the behavior of the younger siblings who attend games.

As the parents and educators in the children lives, our example is the most important way for them to learn.

We are grateful for your participation as spectators at the North Shore Catholic School athletic events. Thank you for your continued support.

BEFORE SCHOOL

Yard supervision begins at 7:50 A.M. Children should go directly to the schoolyard. There should be no running or ball playing before school. Students who ride bicycles to school must walk them into the schoolyard. If a student fails to do so, he/she will forfeit the privilege of using this type of transportation. Students should not leave the schoolyard once they have arrived at school. When the first bell rings, the children should stop all activities and walk quietly to where their class lines up to enter the building.

If it is raining, the children should enter the school through the main Chapman Street entrance and proceed to the School Hall where they will remain until 8:15 A.M. Whether the children are inside or out, the bell will ring at 8:15 A.M. The children will line up in their grade-designated areas and be brought to the classroom by their teachers. If the 8:15 bell has already rung, but it is prior to 8:20 A.M., children may go directly to their classroom.

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

In order to promote a peaceful Christian Community at Saint Mary School, students are expected to abide by the Saint Mary’s Code of Conduct. The code outlines behavioral expectations for all students. The Code of Conduct states we will all:

·         BE HONEST

·         BE POLITE

·         HARM NO ONE

·         RESPECT OURSELVES AND OTHERS

·         RESPECT PROPERTY

·         BE RESPONSIBLE

·         MOVE SAFELY

·         DO OUR BEST

·         COOPERATE

As Saint Mary’s School is an institution of Christian values, learning and reason, conflicts should be settled verbally and peacefully. Physical aggression towards peers is unacceptable. Students who are physically aggressive towards other students will, at a minimum, lose their recess for a period of time and write a letter home to their parents. Students who are physically aggressive in an unprovoked manner, or leave marks on other children, will be sent home or suspended for one day. Repeated offences will require additional discipline. Children who act as the "third man" in a physical altercation will also be suspended for one day. It is our hope that students will attempt to resolve interpersonal conflicts themselves but all students are invited to seek adult assistance, who in turn, will act as intermediaries.

Since instructional integrity is the basis of all learning, students may not disrupt the classroom setting. Students who disrupt instruction will be warned once. Should additional warnings be necessary, a one hour detention may be served at the principal’s discretion. Students who continually disrupt instruction will subject themselves to further disciplinary action including suspension, or in repeated and extreme circumstances, exclusion from Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea School.

BICYCLES

Students are encouraged to ride their bicycles to school IF they wear a helmet. Helmets are a must, and they are the law! Students observed not wearing a helmet will be spoken to once, and have their parents called. If subsequent offences occur the child will lose the privilege of riding a bike to school.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Due to the sensitive and private nature of birthday parties, if you are sending in invitations for parties through the school, one must be provided for every child in your child’s class, or the student will not be allowed to distribute them.

Due to food allergies, Saint Mary’s is a PEANUT FREE ZONE. No baked goods containing peanuts can be accepted. Therefore popsicles etc. are an acceptable substitute. Snacks for your child's birthday should be dropped off at the start of the school day so that the teacher can plan when the most appropriate time is for sharing it.

CALENDARS

In an effort to defray the cost of yearly tuition, each family is REQUIRED to sell twenty calendars. The calendars are distributed at Curriculum Night in September.

CELL PHONES

On occasion, a student’s parents may wish for a student to have a cell phone for communication after school. Children may bring cell phones to school IF they are left in their backpacks for the day and are TURNED OFF. NO STUDENT MAY CARRY A CELL PHONE DURING THE DAY OR HAVE THEM TURNED ON. Any student found with a cell phone on their person, or any student’s cell phone that rings during the instructional day will have the phone confiscated and it will only be returned to that child’s parents. Should a student need to be reminded again of this procedure, that child will leave his/her cell phone in the office every day or be restricted from bringing a cell phone to school.

COMMUNICATIONS

Handouts from a variety of organizations, including the school, come home weekly on Wednesdays. Please check them weekly. The Saint Mary’s School Scoop Newsletter is issued monthly and should be reviewed the day it comes home for school news.

IN THE EVENT A REPORT HAS BEEN MADE TO THE SCHOOL ABOUT A POSSIBLE KIDNAPPING ATTEMPT IN THE TOWN, A LETTER WILL BE SENT HOME WITH THE CHILD WITH SAFETY TIPS TO REVIEW THAT DAY.

If at any time you have the need to talk with a teacher or the principal, please feel free to call the school (978-927.3259) and leave a message on the answering machine or with the secretary. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible. You may also send in a note with your child with your question or concern.

NEVER HESITATE TO CALL US TO SHARE A CONCERN!

CROSSING GUARDS

The City of Beverly provides a crossing guard on the corner of Chapman and Federal streets. Students and adults are to cross at their direction.

DAILY SCHEDULE:

·         First bell/Teachers in yard: 8:10

·         Second bell/Students enter building: 8:15

·         Opening Exercises / Classes begin: 8:20

·         Lunch:

*   Grades 5-8 11:30-12:05

*   Grades K-4 12:15-12:55

·         Closing Exercises: 2:25

·         Dismissal bell: 2:30

Any change in schedule must be approved by Administration.

DRESS CODE

UNIFORM/DRESS CODE

Students must wear the required uniform throughout the school year. Please follow the rules of the school for uniforms. Only the required uniform for classes and gym will be accepted. The term uniform includes hair, jewelry, make-up, and shoes & socks. Should students chose not follow the uniform code, they will be given uniform violation slips.  Students who received three (3) slips will receive a detention.  Parents will be notified prior to the detention date.

GRADES K-4 GIRL’S UNIFORM

Navy blue pants or plaid jumper (#50 plaid) are mandatory October 15th to April 15th. White long/short sleeve blouse with Peter Pan collar – school logo on the collar. Navy or white ankle socks or tights. Sturdy shoes or black walking sneakers (no logos visible) – no slip-ons, backless, or sandals. Navy vest or crew neck sweater with logo is mandatory with slacks.

GRADES 5-8 GIRL’S UNIFORM

Khaki slacks or khaki skirt are mandatory October 15th to April 15th. White long/short sleeve oxford shirt with school logo on the pocket. Navy or white ankle socks/tights or nylons. Sturdy shoes or black walking sneakers (no logos visible) – no slip-ons, backless, or sandals. Navy vest or V-neck long sleeve sweater. Skirts must be no shorter than two (2) inches above the knees.

GRADES K-4 BOY’S UNIFORM

Navy blue pants are mandatory October 15th to April 15th. White oxford long/short sleeve shirt with school logo on the pocket. Navy or white ankle socks. Sturdy shoes or black walking sneakers (no logos visible) – no slip-ons or sandals. Navy vest or crew neck sweater with logo is mandatory with slacks.

GRADES 5-8 BOY’S UNIFORM

Khaki slacks are mandatory October 15th to April 15th. White long sleeve /short oxford shirt with school logo on the pocket. Navy V-neck vest or crew neck sweater must be worn. Navy or white ankle socks. Sturdy shoes or black walking sneakers (no logos visible) – no slip-ons or sandals.

OPTIONAL SUMMER UNIFORM GRADES K-4 BOYS AND GIRLS

May be worn September through October 15th and April 15th through June Navy skorts (no more than 3” above knees) White short sleeve polo shirt with the school logo

OPTIONAL SUMMER UNIFORM GRADES 5-8 BOYS AND GIRLS

May be worn April 15th through June, and September through October 15th Navy short sleeve polo shirt with the school logo Boys – Khaki shorts (no more than 3” above knees) Girls – Khaki shorts or skort (no more than 3” above knees)

GYM UNIFORM (TO BE WORN ON GYM DAYS)

Only the approved Saint Mary’s gym uniform is permitted. SMS gym t-shirt and SMS gym shorts only SMS sweatshirt and sweatpants are allowed. Parents may order navy sweats with Saint Mary School logo from Todd’s Sporting Goods in Beverly. Order forms will be available. Black or white sneakers with non-marking soles only. Saint Mary School gym shorts may be worn from September to October, and April to June. Students who do not wear the approved gym uniform will not be permitted to participate in PE classes.

MANDATORY DRESS CODE FOR K-8

Make-up and nail polish are not allowed. Boys and girls are not to wear jewelry of any kind. However, girls may wear studs. Students should wear conservative hairstyles – God given color. Fad hairstyles and hair coloring are unacceptable. Hats and scarves are not to be worn in the building. Crew socks, knee highs, or hose are to be worn at all times. Shirts are to be tucked in at all times. Skirts should be knee length. If there are belt loops in pants/slacks, a black or brown belt must be worn.  No sweatshirts with hoods “hoodies” are allowed for safety reasons. Students who are not wearing the appropriate uniform attire will have an opportunity to call home to have the item(s) delivered. Detention may be employed for repeated non-compliance!

DRESS DOWN DAYS:

Students are expected to dress in a manner that is appropriate and does not distract from the learning environment. Mid-rift clothing is not allowed. Clothing that promotes or illustrates violence, offensive language, smoking, drugs or sexual material may not be worn to school. Pants should be worn at the waist. Students wearing inappropriate clothing will call home for a change or change into clothing provided by the school office.

 

DROP OFF / PICK-UP

 

Prior to 8:15 A.M., children who arrive at school by vehicle other than bus must be dropped off in the Public Parking Lot. They are not allowed to be dropped off in front of the school. When the child is dropped off, he/she should immediately go on the sidewalk and cross the street only at the crosswalk with the crossing guard. The crossing guard leaves at 8:20 A.M. If the parent is dropping off the child after 8:20 A.M., the child may be left at the school’s main Chapman Street entrance. The child must then proceed directly to the office as he/she is tardy. (See handbook section under “Tardiness.”) Parents should never, under any circumstance, allow children to exit any motor vehicle on the traffic side of the vehicle. Nor should parents allow children to cross in front of or behind vehicles. In order for traffic to flow, it is necessary for parents to pull into the parking lot and park. Parents may not stop at the entrance to the parking lot to let children off. This backs up traffic on the street and puts the safety of students at risk.

 

DISMISSAL / PICK-UP

 

Children who are driven home by vehicle, other than a bus, should be picked up ONLY in the public parking lot.

 

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

 

School is not the place for electronic devices during the school day. Please ensure that your child leaves them at home.

 

FIELD TRIPS

 

Students take a variety of field trips during the school year to various places that relate to their units of study. For these events, parents will be called upon to chaperone. Paying for field trips is the responsibility of the students. Checks should be made to the Saint Mary School and parents are required to sign a permission form allowing their child to participate. As field trips are an extension of the school day itself students will be expected to act in accordance with school behavioral expectations. The school reserves the right to refuse students permission to go on a class trip if their conduct or academic work is unsatisfactory. Students must present permission slips signed by a parent before the scheduled class trip. No student will be permitted on a field trip with only telephoned permission granted. A telephone call will not be accepted in lieu of the proper field trip permission slip. Parents may refuse to permit their child from participating in a field trip by stating so on the proper form. Students who are participating in the field trip must ride the bus to and from the field trip with their class. Students not on the bus may not participate in the field trip and will be counted absent for the day. Cell phones are not allowed on field trips unless otherwise directed by the teacher and or administration.

 

FOOD ALLERGIES

 

More and more children are coming to school with existing food allergies. Some face life threatening issues! Most life threatening among these are allergies to peanut butter products. Saint Mary’s School is becoming a peanut free environment. No foods with peanut products are allowed in classrooms or the cafeteria. Students found to have snacks or lunches with peanut products i.e. peanut butter sandwiches, granola bars, crackers etc. will be immediately removed from their class or cafeteria.

 

HARASSMENT POLICY

 

Saint Mary’s School is committed to the prevention of harassment based upon sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, handicap, and/or disability and sexual orientation. A policy is in place to ensure educational opportunities for all students, and the employment conditions of all employees, are not threatened or limited by such harassment.

 

HOMEWORK

Assignments which support the learning process, aid in skill mastery, and stimulate further interest in learning vary with the age and ability of each student.

Teachers will assign homework consistent with these guidelines based on classroom subject matter introduced in class. It is the school’s goal that students complete these responsibilities independently unless a cooperative or collaborative project has been assigned, and that all work should be completed on time.

At home, please set aside a place suitable for studying, set a routine homework time, help your child manage homework assignments effectively, ask encouraging questions and start discussions about topics being learned, and communicate often with teachers.

The suggested homework schedule appears as follows:

Grade 7 & 8

up to two hours nightly

Grades 4, 5, & 6

30-60 minutes nightly

Grade 3

30-45 minutes nightly

Grade 2

15-30 minutes plus reading

Grade 1

Study spelling words, number facts, and read nightly

At least 20-30 minutes a night should be dedicated to Reading.

If your child is spending significantly more time on homework, please contact the teacher.

Make-Up Work as a Result of Absence (Upper grades five through eight)

·         Teachers will not send assignments home unless it is requested by the child’s parent. Upon returning to school, it is the student’s responsibility to make up missed work. The method of doing so will vary at each grade level. Each teacher will explain his/her implementation of this policy at the opening Parent/Teacher meeting. If a student is absent, it is HIS/HER responsibility to make arrangements for homework to be brought to them. Having a “homework” buddy who will write up assignments and give it to a student will be very helpful.

·         If a child is absent, it is his/her responsibility to make up work he/she missed as soon as possible. All make-up work must be completed within three school days after returning to school. If the work is not made up within that time period, the student accepts the consequences of a failing grade for that assignment.

·         Should a student not complete a homework assignment for any reason (other than illness), they will have one day to make the assignment.  No credit will be given to any assignments submitted later than one day after they are due.

KINDERGARTEN

Our kindergarten curriculum provides an environment which fosters independence and autonomy where children are allowed to make choices. The children participate in the learning process and their surroundings provide them with easily accessible tools needed for physical, social, and cognitive growth.

"A developmentally appropriate classroom, like a garden, will provide an environment which nurtures and stimulates the growth of the whole child and nurtures the individuality of each child." - Lucy Haab

LIBRARY-MEDIA RESPONSIBILITIES

 

The educational tools on loan through the Saint Mary’s Instructional Media Center (IMC) are costly and shared by everyone. Therefore, it is necessary that we must adhere to the following book loan policies:  Books are allowed on a two week loan. Overdue notices are then issued by the media specialist. It is the responsibility of the student to take proper care of this school property. Books are to be returned to the library at any time during the school week.  If, after a reasonable amount of time, a book cannot be located by a child and his/her family, he/she will be asked to replace the book or one of similar cost and subject matter, to the library.

 

LOST AND FOUND

 

There is a bin in the cafe where Lost and Found items are taken. If your child is missing an article of clothing, lunchbox, books, or other items, please have him/her check this place on a regular basis. It is recommended that parents label all children’s clothing. Clothes will be periodically shown to students for reclamation. Clothes will be donated to Saint Vincent DePaul every school vacation in order to keep the level of clothing at a minimum

 

LUNCHES AND MILK

 

Students are to enter the cafeteria politely, expressing courteous behaviors to adults serving them as well as toward one another. Students are not to be excused to the restroom, back to the classroom, or from the cafeteria, except in emergencies. Teachers will assign table monitors to assist in table supervision. The last five minutes of lunch are quiet to encourage and allow children who might otherwise engage in social pursuits, to eat.

 

MILK

 

We participate in the Federal Milk program. Children may order white or chocolate low-fat milk for the school year. Those who order milk are responsible to take it each day.

 

MEDICATION POLICY/CLINIC

 

Medication must be kept in the nurse’s office and administered by authorized personnel only. Medicines should be brought to school by the parent, not by the student. School allows the administering of internal medication only when we have: a note from the parent giving permission to administer the medicine, a physician's handwritten statement indicating that it is necessary during school hours the medicine in the original prescription bottle. If a student becomes ill at school, he/she will be sent to the nurse’s office and a parent will be contacted if the child has a fever or is seriously ill. If a parent cannot be reached, attempts will be made to contact a friend, relative or neighbor as designated on the child's emergency card. Please keep home, office and emergency numbers current in the school office.

 

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

 

Parent - Teacher Conferences are scheduled for all parents for grades K-8 with the first report card. Each family will be invited by the classroom teacher to have a telephone or in-person collaborative conference about your child's progress, strengths, and areas needing improvement. Parental responsibilities include: Reviewing your child's work on a regular basis and making sure that students understand the value of learning. Cooperating with school personnel in carrying out school expectations. Seeking the advice of the school's faculty and asking questions which will help with parenting skills. Participating in the activities of schooling events. Parents or the teacher may request additional conferences if needed.

 

PARTIES

 

The primary classes (K-4) are allowed four parties a year: Halloween, Valentine's, Christmas, and end of the year. All parties are held after lunch at teacher discretion. Intermediate grades (3-5) are allowed a Christmas/Hanukkah and end of the year party. Valentines may be exchanged, but one should be shared with every classroom student.

 

PHONE AND MESSAGES

 

The school phone is to be used for school purposes only. Students may use the phone only after receiving permission from the classroom teacher or office staff. The phone may be used for calling home for forgotten items or homework. Students should make all plans for after school visitations with one another before the school day and should not wait until after dismissal to make visiting plans. If you have an emergency and need to get a message to your child regarding after school daycare, please call the school office at 978-927-3259 and we will relay the message to the child's teacher.

 

RECESS

 

The issue of safety and supervision of Saint Mary’s rests with the adults who are responsible for their learning. The key to good supervision is the prevention and/or elimination of potential problems or injuries. Children are expected to stay on the school grounds within the boundaries established by the adults on recess duty. If a child fails to observe safety rules and exhibits inappropriate behaviors, recess time will be denied. As recess is a privilege and not a right, children who disrupt instruction or do not do their homework may loose their recess privileges. Students are to follow the directions of adults supervising their play; failure to do so could result in loss of time playing or in a time-out spot.  Rough play, tackle sports, kicking, piggy back rides, name calling, fighting, etc. are considered improper citizenship behaviors.  Students may not leave the playground without previous permission or unless a recognized adult picks them up after signing them out in the school office.  At the end of recess students are expected to stop all games and line up as directed. All recess equipment and personal belongings should be accounted for. Duty teachers are to accompany students to the entrance where classroom teachers will meet their students for the rest of the day's instruction.  Minor scrapes and cuts can be cleaned in the office. The school nurse will be called for any significant injuries. The nurse will call parents if she determines the need. The student will be kept as quiet and comfortable as possible until assistance arrives. Kindergarten will have a 15 minute morning recess.  1st grade will have morning recess until the Christmas break.

 

SAFETY

 

In order to ensure your child’s safety, children are not left unattended during the school day. Children may not remain in the school (library, gym, playground etc.) after 2:30 unless a specific staff member has been notified, in advance, so they can assume responsibility for the child. The school doors are all locked during the day.

 

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

 

Decisions to close school, delay school openings or dismiss early due to inclement weather are made by the Beverly Public Schools. IF BEVERLY PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS DELAYED OR CLOSED, SO IS SAINT MARY’S. Parents are encouraged to watch or listen to the news channels for updates. Do not look for Saint Mary School on the closing list.

 

SNACKS

 

Snacks are provided from home. It is our preference that children receive a healthy fruit or vegetable snack during the morning. Saint MARY’S SCHOOL IS A PEANUT FREE SCHOOL. PLEASE DO NOT SEND ANY PEANUT PRODUCTS TO SCHOOL WITH YOUR CHILD. Students in grades K-4 may have a morning snack. Students in grades 2-4 will have a working snack while instruction continues.

 

STUDENT ASSESSMENT

 

Students in grades K- 8 receive three report cards; each for about sixty (60) days of instruction. Students in Grade 5 receive the ACRE test as required by the Archdiocese of Boston Students in grades 2-8 will receive the Stanford Standardized Testing in mid March. In addition, teachers assess student performance in a variety of ways so that the child is allowed a more authentic showing of his/her talents and skills. These areas include:  Writing folders of creative and factual information  projects completed and shared in groups orally strategies which display child's multiple intelligences. The school formally contacts parents regarding student assessment every 30 school days. This is in the form of a progress report, or, a report card. Teachers, especially in our middle school, often direct students to bring home tests for parental signature. While it is the student’s responsibility to have parents sign ALL tests, the school will follow up should a test not be returned within a week. Additionally, the last progress report for 8th graders will be given out at the last week of April in order to allow 8th graders the opportunity to improve their grades before graduation.

 

STUDENT COUNCIL ASSOCIATION

 

The SCA is composed of students elected from among their peers as president, vice-president, recording secretary, corresponding secretary, and treasurer as well as elected homeroom representatives. Activities are of a school pride or community service nature and are open to every Saint Mary’s School student.

 

 

STUDENT RECORDS

 

Cumulative records are treated as confidential materials and privacy rights of parents and students are safeguarded. No outside agencies or individuals may have access to a student's records without written consent of the parent except as provided by law. Parents may review their children's cumulative records at the school office upon request.

 

STUDENT SUPPORT PROGRAMS

 

Other special programs available to students may include Title 1. Reading, Learning Disabilities Resource, Speech and Language, and occupational and physical therapy services may be deemed necessary by the Special Education Team through the CORE process.

 

SUSPENSIONS

 

All students, including students with disabilities, receive prior written notice regarding the school’s Code of Conduct. Any student may be suspended up to 10 days in any school year without implementation of procedures. Should student behaviors fail to improve, exclusion from Saint Mary School may be warranted.

 

TEASING AND BULLYING

 

All the staff at Saint Mary’s work very hard to ensure that this school is a welcoming, caring environment where children and adults feel accepted and respected. While helping children recognize the importance of treating others kindly always starts with you, the families, we acknowledge that we also share in the role of nurturing and guiding your children. For that reason, verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (seriously, in jest, or online) face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The Principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion. Engagement in online blogs such as, but not limited to , MySpace ®, Xanga®, Friendster®, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if the content of the student’s blog includes defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students, or the parish.

 

TEXTBOOKS

 

Students in our upper grades take textbooks home daily. All textbooks require covers. The only acceptable covers are paper shopping bags from local grocery stores. The new style book “socks” separate the covers from the bindings and are therefore not permitted.

 

VACATIONS

 

On occasion, parents may decide to pull their children out of school during the year for a family vacation on non school vacation weeks. Saint Mary School does not support this philosophy. While it is the certainly the parent's prerogative, it is not the school’s responsibility to provide materials for make-up or study during these unauthorized vacations. Students will be given one week to make up any missing work, quizzes or tests. After that time, no credit will be given.

 

WEAPONS

 

It is unlawful to bring, or possess weapons in school. Students found with weapons in their possession will be suspended immediately. The pastor will be notified. Depending upon the severity and type of weapon, the police may also be notified.

 

VISITORS/VOLUNTEERS

 

Visitors are welcome to St Mary’s. To ensure the continuity of the school day, all visitors are required by law to check in at the school office when entering the school building. Volunteers are required to sign in when working in the building. All visitors and volunteers are required to wear identification tags. Parents picking up their students early must sign out their child in the office and wait for them there.

 

WEB PAGE

 

Saint Mary’s School’s web page can be found at http://www.smsbeverly.com

 

RIGHT TO AMEND

 

Saint Mary School reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Notice of amendments will be sent home via the Wednesday folder