St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School

6571 Larkspur Drive  Mobile, Alabama 36619
Phone: 251-666-8022   Fax: 251-666-1296
E-Mail: svsschool@comcast.net     Church Web Site: www.svsparish.org

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St. Vincent de Paul School Parental Agreement

    As a parent or guardian of a student enrolled in St. Vincent, I have read and discussed the contents of the

St. Vincent handbook with my child concerning policies and rules governing the students of this school. 

I intend to support these policies and rules in an endeavor to encourage the students of St. Vincent to

strive for excellence.

    I understand my responsibilities for my child’s education, and I agree to encourage the academic excellence of

St. Vincent by reviewing all papers brought home by my child, signing and returning promptly all school related

papers which require a parental response, maintaining mutual responsibility with my child for arriving and

leaving school promptly, providing a suitable time and place for homework, ensuring that homework is completed,

and helping my child to understand his/her responsibility for his/her education.  By doing my part, I will help my

child receive the best possible education.

    I also intend to cooperate and work with the faculty and administration of St. Vincent in a positive manner. 

I understand that if a concern should arise with a teacher or class, I am to discuss the situation with the teacher

 first.  If an agreement cannot be reached or if I have further concerns, I am then to discuss the situation with

the principal.

    As a member of the St. Vincent Community, I realize that I play a vital role in the overall success of our

school.  I understand and fully accept my responsibility to support and participate in school events.  I further

understand my responsibility for acting on recommendations provided by the teachers and principal of St. Vincent. 

These recommendations may be for testing, counseling, medical examinations, tutoring, structured study.

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School and the Archdiocese of Mobile

Policies and Procedures Handbook for Parents and Students

2006-2007

St. Vincent de Paul’s Mission Statement:

    We, as educators and catechists of St. Vincent de Paul School, will carry out the educational goals of our

Archdiocese and Parish.  As Christians, we are ready to serve our students and parents by supporting, encouraging

guiding, and affirming.  We will serve the Parish, community, and each other by spreading the Faith.  We will

support each other as faculty members by fostering community among ourselves, growing in our ability to educate,

and lead our students in preparation for their future.  Through strengthening of our prayer life, we will make

ourselves spokespeople for our Lord.  Thus, we will provide a model for students and parents.

Statement Of Philosophy:

   To teach as Jesus did is the basis of all Catholic schools.  Catholic education is an expression of the mission

entrusted by Jesus to the Church He founded.  Through education, the Church seeks to prepare its members to

proclaim the Good News and to translate this proclamation into action.  Education is one of the most important

ways by which the Church fulfills its commitment to the dignity of the person and the building of community. 

   The educational ministry of the Church seeks to integrate the teachings of the inspired Word of God, the fellowship

of the Holy Spirit, and service to the Christian community and the entire human community.  The teaching

authority of the Church determines what and how the fundamentals of the Catholic Faith are to be presented. 

Christian education is intended to make our faith become living, conscious, and active through the light of

instruction.  The Church strives to have the life of faith illuminate the knowledge, which students gradually

gain of the world, of life, and of mankind.

   The integration of religious truth and values with the rest of life, brought about through the Catholic school

curriculum, is furthered by a staff of teachers who express an integrated approach to learning and living in

their private and professional lives.  The Catholic school has the opportunity and obligation to be unique,

contemporary, and oriented to Christian service.  Religious truth must be communicated fully and accurately

to each student, to help the student achieve a vital experience of faith.

   Specific steps can and should be taken by concerned parents, educators, pastor, and the local board to ensure

continued improvement and perpetuity of the parish school.

Statement Of Purpose:

   Today, more than ever, students are dependent on cooperation involved in the parent-teacher-student team

approach to Catholic education.  Since written policies help to promote stability, consistency, and efficiency in the

operation of a school, it is intended that this handbook serve as a guide in policy matters concerning the operation

of St. Vincent de Paul School.

   Pertinent information applicable to our school program is included for convenient and quick reference.  An

understanding of the established policies and regulations of our school should help each student live and work

more happily and successfully in an atmosphere of learning.

   The policies and regulations contained herein were developed with the context of the Archdiocese of Mobile

Handbook of Policies. 

   We request that each parent and student read this handbook carefully, so each may become familiar with the

policies, rules, and regulations of our school.  Please keep the handbook and refer to it when you have questions

regarding school matters.  It is our hope that with the cooperation of all parents, teachers, and students, St.

Vincent de Paul School will continue to grow as an institution where Catholic principles and ideals flourish.

St. Vincent de Paul School serves the western suburbs of Mobile.  It provides quality Catholic education in grades

pre-school through 8.  Founded in 1976, the school’s patron is St. Vincent de Paul.

St. Vincent de Paul School is non-discriminatory with regard to race, sex, color, and national or ethnic origin.

We recognize that teachers, principals, parents, and students are both male and female.  No inference is intended

by the fact that one group may be referred to as “he” or  “she” in the handbook.

The Role Parents Share With St. Vincent de Paul School:

            A successful school year hinges on a healthy relationship between home and school working together

characterized by Jesus’ command to “Love one another as I have loved you.”  Parents have the God-given

natural right to educate their children.  They are acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their

children.  Parents have an obligation to raise their children in an atmosphere of love and respect that is reinforced

by the school to produce Christian citizens.  (Adapted from Vatican II, “Declaration on Christian Education”)

Catholic parents should support and cooperate with Catholic schools wherever and whenever possible.

• Parents should weigh seriously their obligation to raise their children in an atmosphere of love and respect
   for God and man.  The home is the source of education in the virtues essential to any meaningful culture. 
  Respect for human dignity, prayer, and acknowledgments of authority are essential for Christian citizenship.

• Parents should train their children in corporate worship through family prayer, family participation in the
  Eucharistic celebration of the parish, and reception of the sacraments. (From Archdiocesan Administrator’s
  handbook)

The school has the right to expect that all parents will:

• Demonstrate Christian values that are the foundation of our faith and school.

• Send their child to school physically fit by taking care that he has sufficient sleep, is healthy, clean and
  properly dressed, and is provided with a well-balanced diet.

• Assist the child in his academic development by cooperating with the school’s scholastic program, by
  participating in parent-teacher conferences, which shall occasionally include the child, by discussing the
  progress reports at home with the child, by aiding with homework when help is needed, by providing the
  proper atmosphere for study, and by cooperating with the school in matters of activities, recreation, and
  discipline.

• Try to discover through supervision and companionship their child’s special interests and talents so they
  may be developed by parents and teachers working together.

• Inculcate in the child a respect for authority so that instruction will be obeyed promptly and cheerfully. 
  Children should be taught to look upon their teachers, playground supervisors, and staff members as
  representatives of their parents.  (cf. Declaration on Christian Education, n8)

• Take a responsible attitude toward the support of the school.  If the parents have a problem, they will
  discuss it with a teacher or administrator and not in the parking lot or in the community.

• Not take their child’s side in a dispute with a teacher even if they disagree.  Parents will schedule a
  conference with the teacher to discuss the issues privately.  Parents will not negatively empower their
  child by talking about a teacher in front of them.

• Not allow their children to talk about or put down teachers or classmates.  They will teach their child to
  respect the dignity of all human beings.

• Send a written explanation each time their child is absent, tardy, or requests an early dismissal from school. 
  The administration reserves the right to determine what is excused.  (Section 305, Title 52, Chapter II 1940
  Code of Alabama as amended)

• Take an active role in the school through parent organizations and/or offer volunteer service for the
  enrichment or betterment of the school. (Adapted from the Archdiocesan Administrator’s Handbook.)

Access to Student Records:

      Educational records are considered confidential material available only to parents, students over 18 years

of age, and to those members of the school staff who have a legitimate educational interest in the student. 

Parents shall, upon written request, be entitled to review and request copies of the education record relating to

their child.  The educational record includes census information, yearly averages, and standardized test scores. 

Non-Custodial Parents:

      At the time of registration, parents shall provide competent information regarding custodial care of the

student and visitation rights.  Upon request, parents shall furnish to the principal a copy of any relevant court

order so as to insure the safety and welfare of the student.  Parents shall have a continuing duty to apprise the

school of any change in the custodial care of the student and of the issuance of any court order restricting or

prohibiting parental or third party access to the child.  The Custody and Contact Information in an Order of

Dissolution form found at the back of this handbook needs to be completed and turned into the office.

Unless prohibited by order of the court or other legally binding instrument, a non-custodial parent shall

have the right of access to school records relating to his or her child and, upon written request, may receive

copies of all notices relating to the school and school activities.

A $25.00 postage and handling fee is collected annually for duplicate mailings.

Grievance Policy and Procedure for Handling Parental Complaints:

The complaint cannot be towards a person (teacher, principal, parent or student).

1. First talk with the teacher.

2. Then take your complaint to the principal if you have not gotten satisfaction.

3. The third step is to put in writing the specific complaint and send it to the school board president.

4. The Executive Committee of the School Board first considers the complaint.

5. Board will decide if the issue is sufficient cause for the parent to appear. (Issue must be a policy or principle
   that has been misapplied or not applied.)

6. Executive Board determines whether the issue has been handled at the administrative level.

7. Disagreement with a teacher or principal or disagreement about how they are handling a situation is
   not grounds to come before the board.  That complaint may be directed to the Superintendent of Catholic
   Schools.

Administration of School Business:

1. School Principal—The principal is the chief educational leader and facilitator, responsible for maintaining
   a Christian environment conducive to creative learning.  She is responsible for the overall conduct of the
   school and is the person primarily responsible for administering policies enacted by the School Board and
   the Office of Catholic Schools.  The principal is responsible to the Archbishop, the Pastor, the Vicar of
   Education, and the School Board.  The Assistant Principal will act on behalf of the principal when the
   principal is unavailable.

2. Pastor—The pastor is the spiritual leader of the parish community and of the Christian educational
   community within the Parish.  The pastor shares the work of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese. 
   As a delegate of the Archbishop, the pastor is the administrative head of the parish Church.

3. School Board—The school board is a policy-making board whose authority is derived from the Ordinary
   of the Diocese and the Archdiocesan Board of Education.  Called into being by the local parish, it has the
   specific mission of providing quality Catholic education for all those children in the parish whose parents
   desire to take advantage of such an opportunity.

The primary functions of the board are to make policy that will represent the parents in helping to
determine the kind of education the children will receive, aid and support the principal and her staff, and
help to create a climate that will be most conducive to maintaining the school’s standards of excellence.

The local board is composed of elected members of the parish.  Each year three members are
elected from a slate of nominees.  All meetings of the school board are open meetings unless there is a call
for an executive session.  Discussion is limited to those items contained in the agenda for that meeting.

Admission to St. Vincent de Paul School:

Students will be admitted to St. Vincent School if they meet the following criteria:

1.      The school is suited to their needs.

2.      There is a vacancy.

3.      The conditions for admission to the school by the state have been met (such as age, medical, etc.).

Withdrawal from the school will be recommended if it is found that the school does not meet the needs of
the child or if information concerning the child was withheld at admission.  St. Vincent is non-discriminatory with
regard to race, sex, and color, national or ethnic origin.

Final Acceptance to St. Vincent:

All students must pre-register each spring.  It should NOT be assumed that students are automatically
registered if already a student at St. Vincent’s.  Failure to submit any items required will constitute an incomplete
registration, and no place will be guaranteed until the missing items are provided.  The following requirements
must be met before acceptance is final:

1. Completed registration form with registration fee

2. Full payment of all fees by required deadlines

3. Signing the tuition and fees policy, returning the tuition preference form, and returning the FACTS form
   if applicable

4. Current blue immunization card (IMM50)

5. Kindergarten and new students must show proof of the second measles shot required after their 5th birthday.

6. Original birth certificate with state seal

7. Baptismal certificate (if Catholic)

8. Social Security Number

9. School Health Form

10. All records from previous schools sent to St. Vincent and evaluated by the principal.

11. Interview with the principal (new students)

12. Students who have attended another Catholic School in the Archdiocese must be in good financial standing
    with that institution or the application for admission may be denied.

*Please note students entering pre-kindergarten must be four years old by September 10th.  Students
entering kindergarten must be five years old by September 10th.

St. Vincent de Paul Tuition and Fees Policy

The following policy for fees and tuition has been approved by the principal, pastor, and school board of
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School.  Parents should expect a 3% tuition increase yearly to help cover the cost of
teaching salaries.

Fees Payment

The registration fee is due at the time of registration and is non-refundable unless the student is not
accepted into the school.  After March 1st, the registration fee increases to $90.  The academic, computer/library,
and archdiocesan fees are due to the school on or before May 1st.  If the fees are not received by May 1st, a $25
late fee will be assessed per student.  The family assessment fee is due to the school on or before June 1st.  If the
fee is not received by June 1st, a $25 late fee will be assessed per family.  All fees are non-refundable.  Any check
that is returned to the school from the bank will be assessed a $25 service charge and all applicable late fees.  Any
family who has more than one check returned must pay all the remaining payments by either cash or money order.

Tuition Payment

1. Contributor’s Rate – This rate is granted to a family who is a registered member of a Catholic Church
   parish and who tithes to that parish.  The pastor of the parish must send a letter to St. Vincent verifying
   membership in his parish and agreeing to subsidize the student’s education.  If you are a member of St.
   Vincent’s Parish, the minimum required contribution to the church is $700 in an identifiable manner
   (checks/envelopes).  $350 is due to the church by June 1st and the remaining $350 is due to the church by
   December 1st.  Tithing rates will be checked on December 1st, and tuition rates will be readjusted
   accordingly.

2. Non-Contributor’s/Non-Catholic’s Rate – This rate is granted to Catholic families who are not a
   contributing member of a parish.  This rate is granted to all Non-Catholic families.

All families shall be expected to make tuition payments according to one of the following payment plans.  Each
family’s preferred manner of payment must be submitted each year at the time of student registration. 
Options for payment shall include:

1. Full payment – Under this plan, the entire amount of tuition is paid on or before July 1st directly to the
   school.

2. Monthly payments – Under this plan, the entire amount of tuition is paid monthly over 10 months beginning
   in July through the FACTS payment plan.  This plan is an automatic payment plan made through your
   checking or statement savings account.  Those choosing this plan will authorize their financial institution
   to make automatic monthly payments to FACTS on either the 5th or the 20th of each month.  There will be
   a $38 annual fee per family payable to FACTS.

3. Master Card or Discover - Under this plan, the entire amount of tuition is paid monthly over 10 months
   beginning in July through the FACTS payment plan.  This plan charges your Master Card or Discover.
   The $38 annual fee will still apply, and a convenience fee of $2.50 per $100 spent on tuition will also apply.

Late Registrations

Families registering after July 1st shall be expected to fulfill their tuition and fee obligations according to
the above policies.  Tuition for students registering after the first day of school shall be prorated according
to the number of remaining days of school.

Late Payments

It shall be the responsibility of each school family to keep the principal informed of their need to make any changes
in their preferred tuition payment plan or adjustments in the amount of tuition expected to be paid.  Without such
information, the following policy will apply when tuition payments are received late.

1.      Full payment – If payment is not received on or before July 1st, the family will be contacted by the principal
 and alternative tuition payment options will be offered.  If funds are not received according to the new
agreement, all tuition payments shall be made through the FACTS payment plan.

2.      Monthly payments – School families who choose the 10 month payment plan and miss a monthly payment
due to insufficient funds will be assessed a $25 missed payment fee by FACTS and may incur a fee from
their own financial institution.  The missed payment will be reattempted by FACTS within 20 days.

In addition, school families who have missed two monthly payments and have not made suitable arrangements
within 5 days of the second missed payment will be informed that their child(ren) will not be re-admitted to school
according to the specifications of this policy.

Tuition Assistance

If you are a contributing member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, you may apply for tuition assistance
through the parish.  Applications will be available in the school office.  If you are a member of another parish,
you must apply to your local parish for tuition assistance.  Requests for reductions in tuition or tithing must be
directed to the pastor in writing for consideration.

Non-Admission of Students Due to Tuition Delinquency

School families failing to pay tuition according to the agreement which they have made with St. Vincent de Paul
School or who have been unwilling to make suitable alternative arrangements with the school will be informed
that they may incur all of the following penalties:

1.      If fees are not current by June 30th, the student will not be allowed to attend on the first day of school.

2.      If tuition is not current by August 1st, the student will not be allowed to attend on the first day of school.

3.      Parents will not be given a copy of their child’s report card until all financial obligations have been met.

4.      Students will not be eligible for semester exams until all financial obligations have been met.

5.      No paperwork (transcripts, report cards, blue immunization cards, etc.) will be released until all financial
obligations have been met.

6.      Eighth graders will not be allowed to participate in completion exercises until all financial obligations have
been met.

7.      The student will not be re-admitted into the school.

Delinquent Tuition From Previous Year(s)

Registration will not be accepted for the next school year until all debts are cleared from the current year. 

If tuition becomes delinquent after registration, your child will be considered conditional until all debts are cleared

from the previous year.  All previously unpaid tuition must be paid by May 31st if a student is to be readmitted on

the first day of classes for a new school year.  Payments need to be made directly to the school. 

Tuition Refunds

Families withdrawing their child(ren) prior to the first day of school shall be refunded the entire amount of tuition

that has been paid for the current school year.  In the event of withdrawal once school begins and before the

2004-2005 school year is complete, tuition shall be owed to the school through the end of the month of withdrawal.

Religious Education:

Liturgy

“The whole liturgical life of the church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. 
The sacraments are ‘powers that come forth’ from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving.  They
are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church.  They are ‘the masterworks of God’ in the new and
everlasting covenant.” (Taken from Catholic Catechism.)

The Liturgy is a community celebration and with this in mind, great emphasis is to be placed on this all-important
act of worship.  School liturgies are celebrated on Friday mornings.  Students, under the direction of their teachers,
take an active part in selecting themes, making suitable decorations, and selecting prayers and readings built
around the theme.  The schedule for Friday morning liturgies is published on the monthly school calendar.  We
invite all parents to join us for our school liturgy at 8:30 a.m. on Friday mornings.

Sacramental Life

            Parents ideally should lead their child to the sacraments.  Parents are to be instructed as to their right and
privilege, as well as their role and serious responsibility, with regard to the preparation of their child for First
Confession, First Communion, Confirmation, and Reconciliation.  For this reason, parents are called to participate
in the formal preparation of their children for the sacraments.

·        First Confession and Reconciliation: Children will be instructed and receive the Sacrament of
Reconciliation prior to the reception of First Communion.  Students in grades 3-8 will periodically receive
the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

·        First Communion: Children of the second grade level are prepared for First Communion.  Preparation for
First Communion usually begins after the Christmas holidays.

·        Confirmation: Middle School students of seventh and eighth grade level are candidates for reception of the
Sacrament of Confirmation.  A preparation program is part of the seventh and eighth grade religion
curriculum. 

Other Religious Instruction:

    The religion program at St. Vincent includes instruction by the classroom teacher and is supplemented by

visits from religious personnel.  It affords the opportunity to live and practice Christian principles.  All students are

expected to participate fully in all aspects of the religious program; however, non-Catholic students may not

participate in receiving the sacraments, such as communion.  The school uses the religion training begun by the

parents in the home as a basis from which to foster the spirit of Christianity.

During Lent, the Stations of the Cross are recited.  Two Archdiocesan celebrations are held annually for various

grades.  In the fall, the students in grades 4-8 are encouraged to attend the Christ the King celebration downtown

at the Cathedral with their families.  In May, there is a special ceremony for the Crowning of Mary.

    One component of their religion instruction will include Catechesis in Sexuality.  Teachers of this

information will be trained from the Office of Religious Education and curriculum approved by the ORE and the

Archbishop.

School Programs:

• Academics: The academic program embodies the curriculum areas of religion, mathematics, language arts,
  science, social studies, and fine arts.  The course of studies for grades K-8 meet all the requirements of the
  Archdiocese of Mobile Office of Catholic Schools and the Alabama State Department of Education.  The
  textbooks used by the students are from the recommended list of issue by the Archdiocese of Mobile.

• Early Childhood: The Early Childhood program at St. Vincent is a link between home and school for our
  youngest students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten.  Students are given the opportunity to develop their
  abilities through age-appropriate activities in a nurturing environment.  Students in the early childhood
  classes benefit from the individualized attention made possible by small class sizes.  The early childhood
  program strives to instill in each child a lifelong love of learning through fun-filled, exciting school
  experiences.

• Elementary: The Elementary School Program is designed to build the academic skills which are the
  foundation for all future learning.  In the lower grades (1-3), students receive small group instruction as
  they move around the various classroom learning centers.  This style of teaching makes learning
  personalized and rewarding and is enhanced by small class size.  The academic program in the upper grades
   (4-5) is more challenging and demanding as students prepare to enter middle school.  Emphasis is placed
  on sharpening critical thinking and problem-solving skills while developing specific knowledge.  The
  program helps students to establish a solid foundation of learning in the core subjects.

• Middle School: The Middle School Program challenges students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades to
  explore their talents, both academically and socially.  During this time of rapid growth and change, students
  are given opportunities to extend their academic horizons, develop leadership abilities, and take greater
  responsibility for their own lives.  The academic program in middle school is structured to provide
  opportunities for advanced studies which facilitate success in high school and college.

• Physical Education: The physical education program requires active participation from all students in
  grades PK-8.  It is designed to meet the safety, health, physical, and recreational needs of the students while
  fostering a Christian attitude towards good sportsmanship.  It seeks to develop the child physically, to instill
  a sense of fair play, and to encourage him to be an active participant in various games and sports.  All
  students in grades 6 through 8 will be required to dress out in the proper PE uniform.

• Media Center: A part-time librarian coordinates the school’s instructional resource center, and its various
  types of media.  Through her, materials are readily available to teachers and students.  Students visit the
  library and computer lab on a regular basis and also at the discretion of the teacher for special projects.  As
  part of the media center, a computer lab is available for the students to use to enhance their computer skills
  and other subjects through the use of technology.  Parents and students are required to read and sign the
  acceptable use policy at the back of this handbook in order for students to be allowed to participate in the
  computer lab.

St. Vincent de Paul’s Library Policies:

• During the 4th quarter, kindergarten students may check out one library book.  This book must be kept in
  their classroom.

• 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students may check out one library book.  Students may take their library book home.

• 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students may checkout two library books.  Students may take their library
  books home.

• All students/parents are responsible for their library books.

• Books will be checked out for a one-week loan period.  The student may renew a book three consecutive
  times.  Circumstances may vary the due date.

• The library book(s) must be returned to the library to be renewed.  Students may not check out a book(s)
  until all library book(s) loaned to the student are returned.

• Students/parents are responsible for any damage or loss of library book(s).

• Replacement costs will be charged to the student for each library book lost.  Notification will be sent to the
  parents, and there will be no refunds.

• Damaged book fees may vary according to the severity of the damage.  A minimal fee of $5 will be charged
  for damage.  A maximum fee of $20 may be charged to replace the damaged book.

• The library has a $.25 per week, per book, late fee.  After 5 weeks, the over-due book is listed as lost, and a
  lost book fee will be charged to the student/parent.  A notice will be sent to the parents.

• The student will not be able to check out any library books until all fees are paid.

• St. Vincent de Paul School reserves the right to withhold a student’s report card until all library fees are
  paid in full.

  Field Trips:

     Students are given the opportunity to enhance their academic and cultural development

through field trips.  Field trips are a privilege not a right.  They are scheduled to enhance a student’s

academic and cultural development.  Students who are disruptive in school will not be invited to attend

field trips.  Students who misbehave on field trips automatically exclude themselves from future field trips. 

Field trip fees are non-refundable in the event of illness, absence, or disciplinary action. 

The school depends on parents for transportation for the field trips.  Parents driving on field trips

must meet all Archdiocesan requirements for liability insurance. A current record of their insurance coverage and a valid

driver’s license must be on file in the school office.  The Archdiocese requires children and adult passengers to use seat

belts when riding in vehicles.  Most automobile manufacturers recommend that children under 12 years old not occupy the

 front passenger seat when riding in a vehicle with airbags.  While this is not yet a policy, it bears attention.  Students

should never be “double-buckled” in seat belts for any reason.  In some instances, a bus is rented with all the children

paying a small amount to cover the cost.  No side trips are allowed for any reason, as this jeopardizes our insurance

coverage.  It is also unfair to those who cannot be so generous. 

   All students must have an appropriate school issued field trip form from their parents requesting their child’s

participation in a field trip.  Only the official school field trip form is accepted.  Substitute letters and oral permissions are

not valid.  A blank form is included at the end of this handbook for your emergency use.

     Evaluation/Assessment:

·        Pupil Progress Reports: Pupil Progress Reports are sent home with the children mid-term in each quarter. 
These give the parents an indication of work efforts before the report card itself is given out.  They are
signed by the parent and returned to the teacher as soon as possible.

·        Pupil Report Cards: The report card is a summary of teacher records/observations related to student
learning over a period of time.  Report Cards are issued quarterly.  They are not returned to school. 

Report cards are used to:

·        clarify the expectations for student and parent by providing a basis for conversation with student,
parent, and teacher. 

·        provide a system of evaluation for all learners at an achievement level that is both challenging and
within a framework of success

·        record a student’s academic strengths and progress in learning

·        provide an evaluation of performance with regards to the student’s ability

·        serve as a communication tool to be used by a student’s future teachers and schools.

·        Conferences: At the end of the first and second quarters, parents will be given the opportunity to formally
conference with the teachers.  These opportunities give the parent and the teacher a chance to discuss the
child’s individual progress.  Other conferences may be scheduled by the parent, teacher, or principal as
needs arise.  Parents are required to fill out a conference form (found at the end of this handbook) and
return it to the teacher in order to request a conference.  Teachers will make every effort to respond to a
conference request within 48 hours.  Routinely, return calls will be made during school hours at the
teacher’s planning period.  Unless there are unusual circumstances, it is expected that the conference will
be scheduled within one week of the request.  Parents should feel free to contact the teachers or principal
when needs arise during school hours (666-8022).   Please do not contact the teachers or principal at home
as this is their family time.  Always begin with the teacher for classroom matters.  The principal is available,
by appointment, to discuss all school-related matters concerning a child, provided proper channels have
been followed.  The principal will make every effort to respond to parent communication within 48 hours. 

·        Archdiocesan Grading Scale for Kindergarten: 

(Office of Catholic Schools Policy, adopted spring 2004)

C = Demonstrates Consistently – After a skill is taught, a student is able to perform the skill or activity
independently.

S= Demonstrates Sometimes – The student has not yet mastered the objective and needs assistance from
the teacher when asked to apply the skill or perform the activity.

N= Needs Continued Development – Some children are not ready to master a skill.  This indicator does not
 mean the student is not learning or unable to learn or choosing not to learn.  It does mean that the child
needs more time to develop before being able to master the skill.

Blank space = The skill was not presented during the marking period.

*Please note: No yearly averages are given at the kindergarten level.

• Archdiocesan Grading Scale for 1st and 2nd Grades:

(Office of Catholic Schools Policy, adopted spring 2004)

In the subjects of religion, reading, writing, math, social studies, and science:

4 = Meeting targets and performing above expectations – After a skill is taught, the student is able to
perform the skill or activity independently.

3 = Meeting targets – After a skill is taught, the student needs some assistance when applying the skill or
performing the activity.  The student is not quite independent, but is well on the way to mastery.

2 = Working towards targets with continuing assistance – The student has not mastered the objective and
needs considerable assistance from the teacher when asked to apply the skill or perform the activity.

1 = Needs more time to develop – Some children are not ready to master a skill.  This indicator does not
mean the student is not learning or unable to learn or choosing not to learn.  It does mean that the child
needs more time to develop before being able to master the skill.

In the subjects of physical education, art, music, and any electives:

S = Successful

N = Needs Improvement

For Discipline With a Purpose Skills (DWP):

G = Good

I = Inconsistent

U = Unsatisfactory

*Please note that the yearly average will be determined by averaging the four numbers (1-4) for each
quarter.  A .5 decimal will be rounded up.

·        Archdiocesan Grading Scale for 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grades:

(Office of Catholic Schools Policy, adopted spring 2004)

In the subjects of religion, reading, writing, math, social studies, and science:

A = 90-100%

B = 80-89%

C = 70-79%

D = 60-69%

F = 59 and below

In the subjects of physical education, art, music, and any electives:

S = Successful

N = Needs Improvement

For Discipline With a Purpose Skills (DWP)/Conduct:

G = Good

I = Inconsistent

U = Unsatisfactory 

*Please note that conduct grades will be given for each subject matter. 

*The components for grades (tests, quizzes, homework, projects, etc.) will consist of 3-5 areas with no one
area weighted more than 40% of the grade. 

*Yearly averages will be determined by assigning 0-4 weights for each quarter (0 = F, 1=D, etc.) and
averaging these four numbers. 

*Averages resulting with a .5 decimal will be rounded up.

• Archdiocesan Grading Scale for 6th, 7th, and 8th Grades:

(Office of Catholic Schools Policy, adopted spring 2004)

In the subjects of religion, reading, writing, math, social studies, science, and physical education:

A = 90-100%

B = 80-89%

C = 70-79%

D = 60-69%

F = 59 and below

In the subjects of art, music, and any electives:

S = Successful

N = Needs Improvement

For Discipline With a Purpose Skills (DWP)/Conduct:

G = Good

I = Inconsistent

U = Unsatisfactory 

*Please note that conduct grades will be given for each subject matter. 

*The components for grades (tests, quizzes, homework, projects, etc.) will consist of 3-5 areas with no one
area weighted more than 40% of the grade. 

*Semester exams will be averaged into the 2nd and 4th quarter test component with a weight of two test
grades.

*Yearly averages will be determined by averaging the percentage number grade from each quarter. 
A letter grade will be given for the numerical average.  Averages resulting with a .5 decimal will be
rounded up.

• Academic Honor Roll: Superior achievement will be recognized by the school at the end of each quarter for
  students in 3rd-8th grades.  Honor roll after the 4th quarter will be mailed to the students with the students’
  final report card.  The “A Honor Roll” is given to students who earn all “A’s” for a quarter.  The “A/B
  Honor Roll” is given to students who earn A’s and B’s for a quarter.  No student will be placed on the honor
  roll if he/she has more than two “I's” in conduct per teacher per quarter. No student will be placed on the
  honor roll if he/she has a “U” in conduct.

• Testing: Kindergarten students take the Dial-3 readiness test at the beginning of the kindergarten year. 
  The Gates-MacGinitie Standardized Test, which tests reading levels, is administered to 2nd graders each
  year.  In the fall, students in grades 3-7th will be given the Iowa Test of Basic Skills.  Students in grades
  2-8 are given Archdiocesan assessments in the spring.  New students in grades 1-8 may be required to take
  a reading inventory test for proper placement in their level.

• Retention: In a decision to promote or retain a student, the following six factors will be considered:

1.      Current report card grades –

·        A “1” in either reading or math in grades 1st and 2nd

·        A “F” in two core academic subjects in grades 3-8

2.      Past academic records, previous grade retention, standardized tests, and CoGat scores

3.      Age of student/present grade placement

4.      Present family history and parent support

5.      Regular attendance

6.      “Light’s Retention Scale”

Discipline and Conduct:

            Students of St. Vincent de Paul School are expected to reflect Christian behavior at all times, in the
classrooms, in church, at lunch, on field trips, on the playground, and in attendance at any other school or
Archdiocesan function.  Christian principles of self-discipline should be the guideline for all of their actions.  It is
assumed that parents who have enrolled their children at St. Vincent have done so because they wish their children
to receive an education which will teach and reflect the living out of the Gospel values.  The family and school join
in partnership at the time of registration to work toward the common goal of instilling in the child Christian moral
values.  If the student exhibits behaviors which are in direct contradiction to the St. Vincent de Paul School
philosophy and mission, the school may take appropriate disciplinary actions.

            A system of discipline is necessary:

1.      To allow the teacher to establish a classroom structure and routine that provide for an optimal
learning environment.

2.      To allow each student the opportunity to learn without unnecessary disturbances and distraction.

3.      To promote the common good throughout the school day.

The only discipline that is worthwhile is that which is prompted by motives from

within, with each student accepting responsibility for his own actions.  Good school discipline is a cooperative
effort of parents, teachers, and students demanding continuous communication and clear understanding and
support among all three.  Parents are asked to focus on what their child can learn from an incident rather than
focusing on the technicalities of a particular incident.  Parents are reminded that each incident may be viewed
from many perspectives, and the administration takes this into consideration. 

Disciplinary actions are intended as positive endeavors.  Every opportunity and effort will be made to be
fair and just in all discipline situations.  Final decisions concerning discipline will be handled on an individual basis.
Parents are asked to trust in the judgment of the school and support disciplinary measures taken.  The principal
reserves the right to determine what is fair and just.  The final decision regarding punishment rests with the
principal.

We reserve the right to inspect lockers, desks, book bags, cubbies, pockets, etc. for health and safety reasons.

·        Discipline With Purpose Program (DWP):  In order to infuse self-discipline in our school, Discipline With
Purpose is used.  Through this school-wide program, all students are instructed in the use of self-discipline
skills that are used as a framework for making sound decisions.  Through discipline, we empower children
to reflect on their behaviors, attitudes, decisions, and actions so that they can choose to change, establish
healthy boundaries, grow in God’s love, and become productive citizens.  The Basic Self-discipline Skills
(Skills 1-5) are expected to be mastered in kindergarten through third grade.  The Constructive Self-
discipline Skills (Skills 6-10) are expected to be mastered in fourth through sixth grade.  The Generative
Self-discipline Skills (Skills 11-15) are expected to be mastered in seventh and eighth grade.

Fifteen Self-Discipline Skills With An Explanation of Each:

1.      Listening Skills: When asked to use good listening skills, children will:

    Stop what they are doing or saying.

   Clear away all distractions.

   Look at or toward the person speaking.

   Be able to tell the person what they heard.

   Ask questions about what was not understood.

   Do the task the speaker requested.

2.      Following Instructions: When asked to follow instructions, children should:

   Practice good listening skills.

   Repeat the instructions to themselves, or to someone else, or write them down.

   List or say the first three things you would need to do to begin the task.

   Start the work on time.

   Stay on task the entire work time.

   Evaluate the task and how instructions were followed.

3.      Asking Questions: Good questions are ones that:

   Have not been asked before.

   The speaker hasn’t already told us about.

   Other people might need answered.

   Make the speaker feel comfortable and not ill at ease.

   Help people think.

4.      Sharing: There are four things that must be shared:

   Time – wait your turn; begin tasks at once

   Space – hallways, between desks, playground, lunchroom, restrooms are all places to keep neat
so others can enjoy them too.

   People – the teacher, friends, loved ones

   Things – Possessions, crayons, limited resources.

5.      Social Skills:

   Use courteous manners, say please and thank you, and use good table manners.

   Dress appropriately.

   Attend to personal hygiene.

   Carry on conversation.

   Give and receive compliments.

   Use greeting and leaving skills.

   Help visitors/newcomers feel comfortable.

6.      Cooperation: Cooperation is to work and act with others for the good of everyone.  In a school setting,
one way to show cooperation is to follow the school rules and be willing to take the consequences if
the rules are not followed.  When cooperation is occurring, everyone will:

   Recognize there is a job to be done and set a goal.