Cathedral-Carmel School

“Christ Centered Students” Where Excellence in Catholic Education is a Tradition

PARENT & STUDENT POLICY HANDBOOK

Fr. Chester Arceneaux, Pastor

Kay B. Aillet, Principal Nicole B. White, Vice-Principal

Jill Spikes, Religion Administrator Christine Menard, Curriculum Coordinator

848 St. John St. Lafayette, Louisiana 70501

(337) 235-5577 Fax (337) 261-9493

TABLE OF CONTENTS Mission Statement/ Parent Cooperation Commitment 3

Religious Education and Sacramental Life 4

Safe Environment 5

Student Attendance 5 (Tardies, Compulsory Attendance Law, Check-outs)

Student Uniform Guidelines 7

Tuition and Fees Policy / Grants 9

Academic Information 10 (Student Withdrawals, Grading Scale, Report Cards, Progress Reports, Exams, Homework, Zero Policy, Make-up Testing, Field Trips, Achievement Tests, Conferences)

Promotion/ Retention Policy 12

Support Services / Electives 13

Extra-Curricular Activities / Committees and Clubs 17

School-wide Discipline Plan / Code of Conduct 20

Cell Phone Policy / Technology 23

Threats of Violence Policy / Diocese of Lafayette 25

Substance Abuse Policy 25

Health and Medication Information 26

Emergency Response Plan 27

CCS Organizations 28 (CCS Foundation & Development, CCS Alumni Association, PBA/ CCABC)

Transportation 29

Food and Nutrition Information 30

Communication 31

Guidelines for Addressing Concerns / Advisory Council Appeals Process 32

Student/Parent Contract 34 (Handbook / AUP / Publishing Permission)

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CATHEDRAL – CARMEL SCHOOL “CHRIST CENTERED STUDENTS”

 MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of Cathedral-Carmel School is to teach our students Catholic values in an environment of academic excellence. We are motivated by our founders, St. John Baptist de la Salle, who calls us to “teach minds and touch hearts,” and Mother Therese Chevrel, who calls us to “Love one another…Uphold one another.”

VISION STATEMENT

Choosing to accept the challenge to change, to collaborate and to cooperate so that our Cathedral-Carmel community is one of care, concern, and compassion focused on Christ!

 PARENT COOPERATION COMMITMENT  

 The following guidelines have been approved by the Diocesan Advisory Council and the Bishop for integration into the Parent/ Student Handbook: An integral part of the educational philosophy of Cathedral-Carmel is the conviction that the school assists the parents/guardians in carrying out their primary responsibility of providing for the religious and secular education of their children. An ongoing positive working relationship between the parents/guardians and the school is critical to the success of the school and the students. As part of that working relationship, parents/guardians are expected to be involved as much as possible in the educational process, to refrain from conduct which thwarts the orderly administration and operation of the school, to support and participate in school activities, and to provide instruction to and set positive examples for their children both at home and in the community. While Cathedral-Carmel encourages the constructive exchange of ideas, feedback and suggestions intended to foster the continued growth and improvement of the school, Cathedral-Carmel is ultimately responsible for the orderly administration and operation of the school, including the policies and procedures implemented to achieve the school’s goals. Cathedral-Carmel reserves the right to terminate the enrollment of any student(s) in the event that it is determined by the school’s administration that (1) a positive working relationship between the school and the parents/guardians no longer exists and/or is irreparably damaged or (2) that the parents/guardians have failed to provide the support, assistance, and example necessary for the religious and secular education to which each child is entitled. Furthermore, failure on the part of any student and /or parent/ guardian to abide by the rules, regulations, and policies as outlined in the school handbook may result in termination of the student’s enrollment from the school.

Cathedral-Carmel School does not discriminate against race, gender, creed, or national origin.

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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND SACRAMENTAL LIFE

The sacraments have been defined as the meeting places between the action of God and the response of people – encounters between an individual and God, which require a response. Parents who have bestowed life to their children and are the primary religious educators, ideally should serve as Christian role models to their children and lead them to the Sacraments. Cathedral-Carmel School places special emphasis on our religious education program. Students will receive a grade in religion, based upon the content of the course, as is the case in all academic subjects. All students, including non-Catholic students, are expected to participate in our religion education program, along with active participation in our liturgical celebrations throughout the year. Cathedral-Carmel School upholds the following policy: ❖ The school will inform the pastor of the names of parishioners enrolled in Cathedral-Carmel

School. ❖ It is not the school’s responsibility to educate the students about the Sacraments of First Penance

and First Eucharist. According to Diocesan policy, the parish Church, rather than the school, is the appropriate place for preparation and celebration of the Sacraments.

❖ It is the parents’ responsibility to contact their own church parish for sacramental preparation and reception for their children.

❖ The students’ pastor, not the school’s administration, has the final decision regarding eligibility for the Sacraments.

MORNING PRAYER Let us remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God – God watches over us. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen. Father in heaven, we come to You thankful for all You have given us. We thank You for our Cathedral-Carmel School Community, our faculty and staff, our students, our parents, our supporters and friends. Each day You give Yourself to us. We now gather in Your name, and we give ourselves back to You and ask for Your blessing and protection. Be with us today. Act within and through us. Accomplish in us all that we need to do Your will and to reflect the values you taught us. We ask this in Your name and in the name of Mary, our Mother. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, pray for us. St. John Baptist de la Salle, pray for us. St. John the Evangelist, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts forever. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

AFTERNOON PRAYER Let us remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God – God watches over us. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen. May Christ support us all the day long ‘til the shadows lengthen, the evening comes, the busy world is hushed, the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in His mercy, may He give us a safe lodging, a holy rest, and peace at the last. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, pray for us. St. John Baptist de la Salle, pray for us. St. John the Evangelist, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts forever. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

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SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING

Bishop Douglas Deshotel and the Diocese of Lafayette mandate that all employees and volunteers participate in a training program, A Safe Environment for the Protection of Children and Young People. Anyone who has contact with our students including, but not limited to, parents, grandparents, aunts, or uncles who assist with chaperoning field trips, or any other Cathedral-Carmel function throughout the school year must attend this in-service program. The Initial Training lasts approximately (2) hours and subsequent annual Continuing Education Training lasts approximately (1) hour. A list of training dates is posted on our website under “About CCS/ Parent Resources.” You may also complete Continuing Education Training online at www.virtus.org

STUDENT ATTENDANCE A student must be present at school a minimum of 167 days to be considered for promotion, regardless of his/her academic performance, as per Louisiana State Bulletin 741. When a student misses school, their absence falls under the following categories: ❖ Excused: The student is allowed to make up the missed work, and the absence is not counted

against the attendance requirement. An example is extended illness documented by a doctor. ❖ Unexcused: The student is allowed to make up the missed work, but the absence is counted

against the attendance requirement. An example is personal or family illness documented by a parent’s note.

❖ Suspension: The student is allowed to make up the missed work, but the absence is counted against the attendance requirement.

Exceptions, as approved by administration, can be made in the event of extended personal illness as verified by a physician or extenuating circumstances as approved by administration. A note from the parent/guardian or doctor is required after each absence explaining the reason for the absence. A doctor’s excuse is required for a student returning after any contagious illness.

An Excessive Absence Email will be sent to parents if their child exceeds five (5) days of unexcused absences from school. This should serve as a warning notice to parents. If a student exceeds ten (10) days of unexcused absences from school, a meeting will be set up with administration to discuss this matter. Students attending school-sponsored events off campus will be considered present.

As per Louisiana State Bulletin 741, if a student is present for more than 50% of the school day, he/she is considered a whole day present. If a student is present for less than 50% of the school day, the student is considered a half-day present.

STUDENT TARDINESS To ensure the effective operation of Cathedral-Carmel School, it is imperative that our students be on campus and in their respective classrooms on time. School begins promptly at 7:55 a.m. A student is considered tardy if he/she arrives after the 7:55 bell. Excused tardies will be allowed only for medical reasons accompanied by a doctor’s excuse. Students who are tardy must report to the office with a parent to receive a “tardy” slip before they report to their classroom. Upon a student’s 5th unexcused tardy, parents will be sent an email from the Business Office. This should serve as a warning notice to parents. Upon the 10th unexcused tardy, parents will be sent an

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email from administration, and a meeting will be scheduled with the student’s parents to discuss habitual tardiness. Habitual tardiness is in violation of the Compulsory Attendance Law. Further violations of the tardy policy may result in additional action as deemed necessary by administration.

90 PERCENT RULE

Students are required to attend school for 90 percent of the school year to receive credit. The 90 percent rule applies to ALL absences, including excused absences. A student cannot have more than 18 excused/unexcused absences to be promoted to the next grade level.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS

Louisiana State Law mandates compulsory school attendance and students are expected to be in attendance every school day scheduled by the local school board until their eighteenth (18th) birthday.

All excuses, including original doctor/dentist verification for a student’s absence(s), must be presented to the school within five (5) days of the student’s return to school to be considered for extenuating circumstances. Doctor’s notes presented after this time will NOT be considered. Parent notes for illness are excused for the purpose of making up work but count towards the number of days per year a student is allowed to miss and are NOT considered an extenuating circumstance.

Every child in the state is required by state law to attend public or private school from the child’s seventh (7th) birthday until his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday, unless the child graduates prior to his/her 18th birthday. Any child below the age of seven (7) who legally enrolls in school shall also be required to adhere to school attendance regulations.

When a student has exceeded the allowable days of absence and no extenuating circumstances are present, the principal or designee will review the student’s absences before credit is denied. If administration confirms no extenuating circumstances, the student and parents receive written notification of the decision to deny credit and are informed of the appeal process.

STUDENT CHECK-OUT POLICY

❖ Students may not leave campus without permission from a parent and administration. ❖ Students will not be allowed to check-out after 2:30 p.m. ❖ Parents must send a note to the homeroom teacher that states the time and reason for the

check-out if the parent knows the child will be leaving school prior to the end of the school day. ❖ Parents who need to change transportation during the school day must do so in person or send

a note to their child’s teacher that morning. Phone calls, text messages, and emails are not allowed during the day to change type of transportation.

❖ Students leaving campus before dismissal are required to sign out in the office before leaving. Parents must sign out students. Parents must sign in students at the office if they return to campus.

❖ Parents who request that their child(ren) leave campus with them for any reason during school hours must report to the office. The student will be called to the office at that time. Parents are not allowed to go to the classrooms during school hours without signing in at the office and obtaining permission. A visitor’s pass will be issued to all campus visitors.

❖ Students cannot participate in any extra-curricular activities if they miss more than half of the school day.

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❖ Parents who want to check out their child after a field trip must report to the teacher and sign the teacher’s class roster indicating that they are taking their child with them. Parents will not be allowed to check out another student, other than their own, from a field trip.

STUDENT UNIFORM GUIDELINES

Tops

● White long or short sleeve shirt with the school emblem worn “over the heart.” Girls can wear a sport or round collar button down shirt.

● Shirts worn under the uniform on colder days must be solid white without any type of printing, drawing, or logo.

● Bras worn with uniform shirts must be white, nude, or beige in color.

Bottoms

● Girls (PreK/K): Brown and white gingham dress with matching bloomers. This dress is optional for Kindergarten students.

● Girls (K-8): Brown shorts, skorts, skirts, or pants. Skirts must be knee-length. Shorts or skorts should be no more than two inches above the knee.

● Boys (PreK/K): Brown shorts or pants with NO belt. ● Boys (1st -8th): Brown shorts or pants with a brown belt. ● On Mass days and special liturgical celebrations, boys are required to wear long pants. Girls are

required to wear either jumpers or skirts. (Skorts are not considered Mass attire.) ● If girls wear legging or tights, they must be white or brown. Leg warmers are not permitted.

Shoes and Socks

● Solid white or brown shoes and solid white socks must be worn at all times. Students can wear tennis shoes or solid brown, leather shoes. Brown/white saddle oxfords for girls are allowed. Shoelaces on tennis shoes must be white and match the shoes.

● Boots and slip-on shoes are not permitted. ● Students in PreK and Kindergarten are required to wear velcro shoes.

Outerwear

● Only DARK BROWN or WHITE coats, jackets, sweaters and windbreakers will be allowed. ● Sweatshirts must be solid white with the CCS sweatshirt logo. Any other style sweatshirt is not

approved and will not be allowed.

Hairstyles

● Must be natural and neat. ● Boys or girls may not have hair that has been highlighted, dyed, tinted, or bleached to the point of

being a distraction. ● Acceptable hair length for boys is above the collar, above the ears, and above the eyebrows. Boys must

be clean-shaven and may not have extremely long or short sideburns. ● Unusual styles, such as shaving or carving into the hairline, are not allowed. ● Boys are not allowed to wear earrings. ● Body piercing and tattoos are not allowed.

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● Hair accessories: white, brown, or a combination of brown and white ribbons and bows.

P.E. Classes (5th – 8th only) ● P.E. uniforms can be purchased online from All Star via the following link.

https://www.allstarnow.com/store/cathedral-carmel-pe-uniforms/ . Names must be on the back of all PE shirts. All orders placed online via All Star will be delivered to school at the beginning of the school year.

● White athletic shoes should be worn in all P.E. classes. ● During cold weather, students have the option to wear CCS approved warm-up pants. These pants

will be sold through the P.E. Department.

Club and Athletic Shirts

● CCS club members may wear club shirts with uniform bottoms on meeting days. ● On game days, CCS athletes may wear jerseys/shirts with uniform bottoms.

ID Badges

● Student ID badges should be worn by students at all times and is considered a part of the school uniform. If a student does not have his/her ID, the appropriate disciplinary action will occur. The IDs are worn for safety purposes, but are also needed for library book check-out and in the cafeteria. All students are given an ID at the beginning of the school year. If a replacement ID is needed, the cost is $10.00.

Anything that distracts from or disrupts the spirit, education, philosophy, or dignity of Cathedral-Carmel School may be deemed unacceptable even though not explicitly set forth in these policies. Such situations will be dealt with in accordance to the principles implicit in our existing policies.

STUDENT SPIRIT DAY / FREE DRESS DAY GUIDELINES Spirit Day: School sponsored spirit t-shirts, club t-shirts, or CCS athletic team t-shirts may be worn with jeans or school uniform bottoms only. Jeans that are ripped or have holes are not permitted. Uniform school shoes should be worn on Spirit Days. Free Dress Day: Acceptable dress on “Free Dress Days” includes shorts, dresses or skirts, athletic shorts, t-shirts, capri pants, or jeans. Unacceptable dress includes shirts with spaghetti straps, pajamas/slippers, hats, and t-shirts with inappropriate writing or logos. On days that students have P.E. class, tennis shoes must be worn.

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TUITION AND FEES POLICY Family statements will be sent only if your account is delinquent or incidental fees have been posted on the account. A late fee of $25.00 per month will be assessed 5 calendar days past the due date. Any accounts with a NSF check will be charged a $30.00 fee. In the event any payment due to Cathedral-Carmel School is past due by sixty (60) days, the school shall have the following options: ❖ Immediately required full payment of all tuition and fees due to the school ❖ Remove the student from participation in extracurricular activities ❖ Dismiss the student from Cathedral-Carmel School

If any tuition and/or fees are past due at the time of registration, students’ registration will not be processed. In addition, all tuition and fees must be paid in order for a student to try out for any Cathedral-Carmel sport during the school year, to take final exams, to participate in any of the end of the year ceremonies, and to receive the end of the year report card. All grade reports and academic transcripts are the property of Cathedral-Carmel School and will not be released until account balances are paid in full. Any additional cost of collecting tuition and fees incurred by Cathedral-Carmel school, including but not limited to attorney’s fees and collection fees, shall be paid as additional tuition. If you are unable to comply with the policies set forth, please contact the Business Office immediately.

GRANTS Cathedral-Carmel School and St. John the Evangelist Church provide tuition grants to parents who need assistance paying school tuition. Grants are awarded based on need and monies available at the time that the grant is reviewed. Requests for grant applications are made through the Business Office. Please call the school’s Business Office for an application form. All requests for financial aid are held in strict confidence. All grant applications must be completely filled out and returned to the school no later than the first school day of May. Grant recipients will be notified no later than the first week of July about the status of their application. Twenty service hours are required of those families receiving tuition grants.

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ACADEMIC INFORMATION

STUDENT WITHDRAWALS If a student transfers to another school during the academic term, parents are to notify the administration in writing. The notice should also have the name and address of the student’s new school. Cumulative records of students will be released after this procedure is completed, and all accounts have been cleared. Cumulative records will not be released for accounts with outstanding balances.

GRADING SCALE

A = 94 – 100 B = 87 - 93 C = 78 - 86 D = 77 - 70

F = 69 & below

GRADING SCALE CONVERSION CHART E (Excellent) = 94 – 100

S (Satisfactory) = 93 – 78 N (Needs Improvement) = 77 – 70 U (Unsatisfactory) = 69 & below

REPORT CARDS Students in grades 1st – 8th will receive report cards for each quarter. Kindergarten report cards will be distributed three (3) times per year. PreK observation reports will be distributed once at mid-term and at the end of the school year. We strongly recommend that you maintain contact with the teacher and check FACTS to keep informed of the progress of your child.

PROGRESS REPORTS / EXAMS Progress Reports are issued in the middle of each quarter for grades 1st – 8th. The purpose of these reports is to provide information on student academic progress and conduct. Please review these reports carefully with your child. Progress Reports should be viewed on ParentsWeb. Passing grades at Progress Report time do not guarantee satisfactory performance on the report card. If your child’s Progress Report is unsatisfactory, we highly encourage parents to take an active role in seeking the help and guidance that your child needs to improve. Students in 7th and 8th grade will have final exams in May. Students must submit a doctor’s excuse to make up a final exam. At the end of the year, 7th and 8th grade students who have maintained a 94% or above each quarter in any or all subjects will be exempt from the final exam for that particular subject.

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HOMEWORK An absent student will be allowed to make up work upon returning to school. It will be his/her responsibility to obtain missed assignments. Homework on weekends in grades PreK – 4th grade will not be assigned. In grades 5th – 8th, homework may be assigned on weekends. Homework assignments may be obtained by: ❖ Checking Google Classroom; ❖ Calling another student on the day he/she is absent; ❖ Asking the teacher for the assignments upon the student’s return.

Worksheets and supplemental materials requested by PreK – 4th grade parents will be in the office by 2:30 p.m. Parents of 5th – 8th grade students should gather the books/ materials from the student’s locker and the bins in the middle school halls after getting the assignments.

ZERO POLICY / MAKE-UP TESTING Zero Policy / Make-up Testing ❖ In the case of late projects, the student’s grade is dropped one (1) letter grade per/day until the

project is turned in. Upon the 5th day, a zero may be given. ❖ In the case of cheating, the teacher must meet with the student in question, discuss the incident

and document the meeting. Administration and parents must be notified on that same day and notification must be documented. A zero may be given.

❖ In the case of make-up tests, the student will have three (3) dates for making up a test. If the student does not make up the test on one of the optional test dates, a zero may be given.

❖ Students are not allowed to make up tests during class/elective time. ❖ Make-up testing for grades 5th – 8th will be held on two (2) days each week as designated by

each grade level. ❖ The assignment of zeros for homework is at the teacher’s discretion. A ½ credit for (1) day late

or other options are at the discretion of the teacher. Because homework should not represent more than 20% of a student’s overall grade, a zero should not be cause for failure.

FIELD TRIPS Since field trips are an extension of the classroom, only those students in the grade for which the field trip is planned are allowed to participate. Field trip graded assignments will be assigned by the teacher. Students not attending the field trip must submit a doctor’s excuse to be exempt from the required field trip. If a parent requests to check out their child after a field trip, the parent must report to the teacher and sign the teacher’s class roster indicating that they are taking the student with them. Parents will not be allowed to check out another student, other than their own, from a field trip. BAG LUNCH POLICY: Each students’ lunch, including a bottled drink, should fit into a one (1) gallon Ziploc bag. Students’ names should be labeled on the outside of the bag with a marker. IMPORTANT NOTE: All parent chaperones must be up-to-date with Safe Environment training in order to chaperone any field trip.

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ACHIEVEMENT TESTS In the spring, students in grades 3rd – 8th grades will be administered the ACT Aspire Achievement Test. This norm-referenced test measures how well a student has performed in relation to students across the nation. The overall results may be used to make changes to the school’s curriculum and to the School Improvement Plan. Individual student results indicate areas of strengths and/or weaknesses and indicate to teachers and administrators areas where students may need special attention. Students will not be allowed to make up the ACT Aspire test. OLSAT will be administered to 1st grade students in the spring. The ACRE test (religion assessment) will be administered to 5th and 8th grade students in the spring.

CONFERENCES Open, ongoing communication with the teacher is advised. “Parent/Teacher Conference Day” is scheduled during the school year so parents may meet with teachers to discuss student progress. Parents are invited, at any time during the year, to schedule a conference with a teacher. Please call or email the teacher to schedule a conference. To secure your teacher’s email address, visit our website and click on the teacher’s name under the “Faculty and Staff Directory.”

PROMOTION AND RETENTION POLICY

Multiple Failures: Students who fail twice (whether consecutive years or not) may not be allowed to return to CCS. Pre-Kindergarten / Kindergarten:

At the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten levels, promotion is based primarily upon the child’s mastery of basic skills. If weakness occurs, the school reserves the right to have the child repeat the year in order to have more time to mature, as well as time to acquire the skills necessary for success at the next academic level.

First-Second Grades: In 1st and 2nd grade, a student will repeat the grade if he/she fails math, reading or is not functioning on grade level. If a student fails language or spelling, he/she must successfully make up the deficiency by private tutoring meeting all Cathedral-Carmel requirements. If a student fails religion, he/she will be required to successfully make up the work through private tutoring in the summer by a certified Catechist teacher.

Third-Fourth Grades: In 3rd and 4th grade, a student will repeat the grade if he/she fails one or more core subjects - math, science, reading, language, and social studies. If a student fails spelling, he/she must successfully make up the deficiency by private tutoring meeting all Cathedral-Carmel requirements. If a student fails religion, he/she will be required to successfully make up the work through private tutoring in the summer by a certified Catechist teacher.

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Fifth - Eighth Grades: In 5th – 8th grade, a student who fails one or two core subjects must successfully make up the deficiency in an accredited summer school program. Summer school classes are offered by Lafayette Parish School System. If the student does not pass the course(s) in summer school, he/she may not return to CCS. If a student fails religion, he/she will be required to successfully make up the work through private tutoring in the summer by a certified Catechist teacher. If a 5th – 8th grade student fails three or more subjects, he/she may not return to Cathedral-Carmel.

All students must be in compliance with Louisiana’s Compulsory Attendance Law in order to be promoted to the next grade. The final decision for a student to be promoted to the next grade or for a student to continue at Cathedral-Carmel will be made by administration.

SUPPORT SERVICES / ELECTIVES

Library Cathedral-Carmel School has a fully equipped library which is available to all students and teachers. Students are able to use the wide variety of library materials and resources for study, reference, and enjoyment. Classroom work of the students is closely correlated with the school library, and each student learns proper use of the library and its resources. The library has a certified librarian and a full-time library assistant. The library uses a computerized card catalogue system, and students are able to check out books electronically. Library Hours The Library is open before school beginning at 7:30 a.m. Students must get a pass from administration on duty in the gym to enter the library before school. This time is used to take AR tests or to check out or return books. No written homework can be done before school. The library closes at 3:00 p.m. Library Checkout Policies PreK

● Students will check out books from the cart in the library. ● Bringing home library books will be left up to the teacher’s discretion.

Kindergarten ● Students will check out one book at a time. ● Books are checked out to the students. ● At the beginning of the year, students will check out books from the cart. After Christmas,

students will begin checking out books from the “everybody” shelves. ● Bringing home library books will be left up to the teacher’s discretion.

First Grade

● Students will check out one book at a time. ● Books are checked out from the “everybody” section.

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Second Grade ● Students will check out one book at a time. ● Students will begin AR testing after Christmas.

Third-Eighth Grade ● Students can check out two books at a time for a period of two weeks. One of these two

books must be an AR book in their reading range. ● Books can be renewed if the student does not finish reading them by the date they are due.

After several renewals, the librarian and library assistant have the right to block the renewal of that book and have the student return it.

● Only one LYRC book at a time can be checked out. ● Only one book in a series can be checked out. ● 4th – 8th grades - Only one PlayAway (audio book) at a time can be checked out.

o PlayAways can be renewed only once o It MUST be in student’s AR reading range

● Overdue fines will be charged to 3rd – 8th graders at $.05 a day. ● Once a student has reached $1.00 in overdue fines, the student cannot check out any books

until the fine is paid. ● Although students have a specific “library checkout” day, they may come to the library at

ANY time (with their teacher’s permission) to return books, take AR tests, and check out more books.

● Borrowing books from the library is a privilege. When a student checks out a book, he/she is expected to be responsible for returning library materials in good condition.

● Magazines and Reference Materials are not to be checked out. They are for in-library use only.

Accelerated Reader The Accelerated Reading Program is a computerized reading software program that is utilized by students in grades 2nd - 8th. It enables teachers to manage literature-based reading by their students. Accelerated Reader’s main purpose is to motivate students to read more and to become lifelong learners who love to read. The program is also designed to help teachers assess reading comprehension and to aid in diagnosis and intervention. The Accelerated Reading Program has proven to be a successful component in the language arts curriculum and is a fine example of blending technology with literature-based reading.

Counseling Program The focus of the counseling program includes the enhancement of communication among all individuals in our school. The program fosters relationships as a Christian community, helps to improve academic achievement, furthers student self-discipline, and provides guidance for social and emotional growth. Staff members and/or parents can make referrals to the counselors. Students may also visit the counselors on their own. If parents refuse counseling services for their child, they must notify the school in writing.

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French Program The French elective is offered to students from 6th – 8th grade. A student may choose Advanced French as an elective in 8th grade if he/she meets the prerequisites. These include: enrollment in 7th grade French, an 87% average or higher per/quarter in 7th grade French class, and teacher recommendation. At the end of the 8th grade year, students who have successfully met the requirements for Advanced French will be exempt from French I at the high school level. An accelerated ELA/Bilingual course is offered by invitation only. Students are eligible to receive a French 1 credit in 7th grade and a French 2 credit in 8th grade upon successful completion of the courses.

Band Program

The CCS program is for any 5th-8th grade student at Cathedral-Carmel School who wants to learn how to play a musical instrument. No previous experience is needed. Students do need to go through an instrument selection process with Mr. Ashurst to insure a successful instrumental match. The band performs concerts and participates in Masses and community events throughout the year. Unique travel opportunities are offered to allow students to experience music in a variety of settings.

Music / Handbell Choir Handbell Choir is designed to study the art of handbell ringing. Students should have some knowledge of music and must audition to be accepted into the class. The Handbell Choir is a full-year course and is offered to 8th graders. Handbell choir members perform for special liturgies and special programs on campus throughout the school year. Music class is offered as a semester elective in 7th grade and is a preparatory course for the Handbell Choir.

Art Program 5th & 6th Grade Art is a one-semester course designed to introduce students to a variety of art making media, skills, and techniques. Through instruction and exploration, students will work through the five major art studios: drawing, collage, sculpture, and painting. In each studio students will learn about elements of art, essential skills, and a variety of artists related to each art form. Each studio unit will culminate in project assignments that require students to demonstrate abilities within the classroom setting as well as reflect on their learning experiences. 7th & 8th Grade Art is designed to further develop students’ skills in a variety of art making media and techniques. Through instruction, exploration, and theme based idea development, students will work through the five major art studios: drawing, collage, sculpture, and painting as well as maintain a working portfolio. In each studio and theme based project, students will learn about elements of art, essential skills, and a variety of artists related to each art form or theme. Each thematic unit will culminate in project assignments that require students to demonstrate abilities within the classroom setting as well as reflect on their learning experiences and artistic growth. A year long course is available for truly dedicated art students.

Speech and Debate Speech and Debate is a one-semester course offered to 7th and 8th graders that covers a variety of styles of public speaking and formal debate. Through instruction, research and practice students will become familiar with these styles. Each unit will culminate in performance assignments that require students to demonstrate their abilities within the classroom setting.

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ACCELERATED COURSE OFFERINGS

Accelerated Math Accelerated Math Classes are offered in grades 6th - 8th by invitation only for students who meet the requirements. These courses offer advanced and challenging coursework to meet the needs of accelerated learners. Algebra I This course is offered to 8th grade students by invitation only who have met the requirements for participation. This course, if completed successfully, will provide a high school credit for Algebra I. Bilingual / Accelerated ELA Students in 7th and 8th grades who meet the requirements will be invited to participate in the Bilingual/Accelerated ELA classes. These classes combine French within the 120 minute ELA courses. These challenging courses offer advanced and challenging coursework to meet the needs of accelerated learners and provide high school credit for French I (7th grade) and French II (8th grade).

TREC (PreK - 3rd) and REC (4th - 8th grade) PROGRAMS RESOURCES FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

These programs are designed to service children with special needs in a self-contained classroom environment. Some REC and TREC students will be mainstreamed into the curriculum and our school community as much as possible, depending upon their cognitive ability. Our REC and TREC programs are staffed with certified special education teachers and teacher/tutors.

TLC PROGRAM / THE LEARNING CENTER “The Learning Center” is designed to provide academic support for all students. TLC provides the least restrictive environment for meeting students’ individual needs. CCS will not discriminate against any student with a disability when reasonable accommodations can be made to meet our program requirements. Students participating in the program are assessed to determine their individual needs. Scheduling and placement of students in TLC is based upon recommendation by TASK (Teachers Assessing Students’ Knowledge), availability of classes, and the resources of the school. The following are goals of TLC: ❖ To improve basic reading, math, and language arts skills ❖ To develop independent learners ❖ To improve study skills ❖ To assess personal strengths and weaknesses

CHECK / Challenging Hands-on Enrichment for Creative Kids

The CHECK Program (grades 2nd – 4th) provides an opportunity to practice higher order thinking skills, problem solving, logic, and critical thinking skills through an assortment of enrichment activities. The CHECK Program is designed to foster leadership, risk-taking, creativity, cognitive development, and self-confidence in a highly stimulating environment. Individual needs are assessed and met by utilizing a variety of learning styles in a wide range of subject areas.

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TIGER CARE – AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Tiger Care is our after-school care program. Participants will receive homework assistance, snacks, and recreational opportunities. Our Tiger Care Program follows the same “code of conduct” as our CCS School-wide Discipline Plan. Tiger Care fees and registration forms can be found on our school website under “Parent Resources/Business Office.”

TIGER CAMP – SUMMER PROGRAM Tiger Camp is our summer camp program. Camp hours are from 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with after-care available until 5:30 p.m. Children ages 4 - 10 are able to attend. Tiger Camp includes fun jumps, waterslides, and field trips throughout the summer. Daily activities include the computer lab, arts & crafts, gym games, and outdoor fun.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The following are the requirements for students to be eligible to participate in all extra-curricular activities:

❖ Grade in conduct must be 78% or higher. ❖ Grades must be 70% or higher in any graded subject on the progress report and/or the report

card. ❖ Students receiving an in-school suspension or out of school suspension may not participate in

extracurricular activities on the day of the suspension. ❖ A grade below 70% in any graded subject will result in the following:

A failing grade at progress report time will result in (10) school days of ineligibility. A failing grade at report card time will result in ineligibility until the next progress report.

If the above requirements are not satisfied, students will be declared ineligible until the following reporting period. A grade below 70% in any graded subject will result in the following: ❖ A failing grade at progress report time will result in 10 school days of ineligibility. ❖ A failing grade at report card time will result in ineligibility until the next progress report.

Once a student obtains verification of passing grades from the teachers, the ineligibility will be lifted. At the end of a grading period or progress report period, all coaches and/or moderators will be informed about student eligibility and/or ineligibility. If a student is declared ineligible on two consecutive reporting periods, he/she will be restricted from extracurricular participation for forty-five (45) school days beginning at the time of notification. Any unacceptable behavior at Cathedral-Carmel School, or when representing Cathedral-Carmel School off-campus, may disqualify a student from participation in any extra-curricular activity. Final decisions will be left up to the discretion of the administration. In addition, all athletic and extra-curricular activity fees are non-refundable.

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COMMITTEES AND CLUBS Athletic Programs Cathedral-Carmel School offers a complete competitive sports program for those students who wish to participate and meet the required criteria for eligibility. Middle school students are eligible to participate in the following sports:

football (5th – 8th ) cheerleading (7th / 8th) golf (5th - 8th) baseball (5th - 8th) softball (5th - 8th) tennis (5th - 8th) basketball (6th - 8th) volleyball (5th - 8th) track (5th - 8th) soccer (5th - 8th) cross-country (5th - 8th) swim (5th – 8th)

Athletic Program Fees In our effort to maintain an extensive and quality sports program, the participation fee is $100.00 per/student - per/sport, with the exception of football which is $150.00 per/year. The monies collected from each student athlete will be used for equipment, uniforms, and coaches’ pay. Athletic fees are non-refundable. All tuition balances must be paid in full in order for students to participate/try out for any sport. Note: All tuition and athletic fee balances must be paid in full in order for students to participate or try-out for any sport.

Music Ministry Music Ministry is composed of 8th grade students who desire to assist in building the faith-filled community at Cathedral-Carmel through praise and worship music in the gym each week. These students serve as role models in Christian service. Quiz Bowl Quiz Bowl is an academic competition that covers all subject areas. Cathedral-Carmel’s team competes with other 7th and 8th grade students from schools in the Acadiana area. Science and Technology Club The Science and Technology Club is organized to provide students with the opportunity to explore science and technology outside of the normal classroom. Meetings provide students with enriching experiences in both the branches of science and new emerging technologies. Club members are provided with hands-on activities using all types of digital resources. CCS Science and Technology Club is open to all students 6th - 8th grade. Robotics Club The CCS Robotics Club is committed to making learning fun through engaging, interactive and hands-on educational-oriented activities designing and building EV3 LEGO robots. Meetings provide students with enriching experiences in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). As a team-based club, each student is encouraged to participate in the process of design, creation and execution of robotics projects. CCS Robotics Club is open to students in grades 6th- 8th.

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Library Club The Library Club helps students develop leadership qualities, as well as provide opportunities to promote the services of the CCS Library and reading celebrations throughout the school year. Membership is open to students in 5th - 8th grades. French Club The French Club offers students an opportunity to participate in fun French related activities that will further enhance their appreciation and knowledge of the French culture. Membership is open to 6th - 8th grade students. Art Club The Art Club provides opportunities for students who love art to expand their creativity in ways not available in the regular art classes. Membership in the Art Club will enhance student appreciation for the beauty of God’s world through art, as well as provide the members an opportunity to promote and assist with the Fine Arts Showcase. Membership is open to students in the 5th – 8th grade. 4-H Club The 4-H Club empowers members with skills needed to lead for a lifetime. The goal of 4-H is to develop citizenship, leadership, responsibility and life skills of youth through experiential learning programs. The 4-H name represents four personal development areas of focus for the organization: head, heart, hands, and health. 4-H is open to students in grades 4th – 8th. CCS Ambassadors CCS Ambassadors are a select group of students whose purpose is to exhibit leadership and provide service to the school and community. Membership is open to 8th grade students. REC Mentors Club REC Mentors Club offers students an opportunity to provide assistance to the REC students and teachers. Participation in Special Olympics and REC projects foster an appreciation for the gifts of special needs students. Student Council Student Council is composed of elected representatives in grades 5th - 8th. The executive 8th grade board is the President, Vice-President, and Secretary/Treasurer. Drama Club The Drama Club is open to any student in grades 5th – 8th who is interested in acting in plays and learning the fundamentals of acting. The Drama Club students meet before and after school on an as needed basis.

Beta Club / Requirements The National Junior Beta Club is an educational organization for middle school students in grades 7th – 8th. Membership in Beta signifies that “the student is a student of good character and mentality, creditable achievement, and commendable attitude – a student worthy of special recognition because of outstanding attainment and promise.”

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Beta Club requires its members to: ● obtain and maintain an A/B average in all academic classes ● obtain and maintain an A average in conduct

NOTE FOR ELECTED POSITIONS: Students may only serve as the president of (1) one club during their 8th grade year.

SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE PLAN

Cathedral-Carmel utilizes a School-wide Discipline Plan to promote positive behavior among our students. The goal of our School-wide Discipline Plan is to create and maintain a learning environment that will assure each child the opportunity to achieve his/her potential. In order for this goal to be realized, students, teachers, parents, administrators, and other school personnel must be involved. Discipline problems will be handled according to the rules and regulations of our School-wide Discipline Plan. Unacceptable behavior or disruption of the learning environment at Cathedral-Carmel will result in disciplinary actions, which may include detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or expulsion, as deemed necessary by administration.

CODE OF CONDUCT Respect others and school property

Act safely and responsibly

Show a positive, Christ Centered attitude

Follow all uniform guidelines

Follow the Golden Rule

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL / KINDERGARTEN – 4TH GRADE

When students are disciplined, infractions will be recorded on the Weekly Progress Reports. One infraction = (-3) conduct points. Students begin each week with a 100% in conduct. Weekly Progress Reports will be sent home with signed papers on Communication Wednesday.

ACCUMULATION OF CONDUCT POINTS / MAJOR INFRACTIONS

An accumulation of (5) conduct marks in one day will result in an assignment to recess detention. If a student is having difficulty following the Code of Conduct, a conference with the student’s team of teachers, the counselor, the supervisor of student services, and the parents will be held. An Individual Behavior Plan will be designed as an attempt to change the inappropriate behavior. Major infractions such as stealing, cheating, fighting, bullying, threat of violence, weapons on campus, substance abuse, and disrespect will result in the student being sent immediately to administration. CCS Consequences of Behavior Policy Faculty and staff members should complete the Discipline Referral Form (Level 2 Infraction) in FACTS and email to administration.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL / GRADES 5th – 8th

Students begin each 9 week period with a 100% in conduct. Throughout the 9 weeks, demerits issued will be deducted and this will determine their conduct grade.

ACCUMULATION OF DEMERITS

An accumulation of (7) demerits will result in an assignment to lunch detention. An accumulation of (13) demerits will result in an assignment to after-school detention. An accumulation of (20) demerits will result in an in-school suspension. Once a student has received (20) demerits, an evaluation by the student’s team of teachers, the counselor, administration, or other appropriate staff members may be necessary. A conference with the parents will be arranged at this point. An accumulation of (25) demerits will result in an out-of-school suspension. The suspension will last a minimum of one day and will end when a parent conference is held. An accumulation of (30) demerits will result in an administrative hearing.

LUNCH DETENTION

Lunch detentions are held during the students’ lunch period. Students serving detention eat lunch in the cafeteria first, and then go with the detention teacher for the remainder of their lunch break.

AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION After-school detentions are held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. two days per/week. If a student misbehaves in after-school detention, they will have to stay an additional 15 minutes. Parents must make arrangements for pick-up no later than 4:00. Excuses should be submitted to administration from a physician if the detention is to be excused. Extra-curricular activities and/or athletic events are not a valid excuse for missing detention. Students not picked up from after-school detention by 4:00 will report to Tiger Care; a fee will be assessed.

IN – SCHOOL SUSPENSION If a student receives an in-school suspension, he/she will not be allowed to attend school, extra-curricular activities, and/or athletic events on the day that the suspension is assigned. The student is responsible for completing all schoolwork and tests in the Vice Principal’s office on that school day. If a student receives an in-school suspension, he/she will receive a total of ten (10) demerits for the infraction. An in-school suspension is not counted against the attendance requirement.

SUSPENSION If a student receives an out-of-school suspension, he/she will not be allowed to attend school, extra-curricular activities, and/or athletic events on the day that the suspension is assigned. If a student is suspended as a result of a major infraction, he/she will receive a total of (15) demerits for the infraction. The student is responsible for all schoolwork and tests missed and will be allowed to make up missed tests or graded assignments upon returning to school.

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BULLYING/ HARASSMENT POLICY Based on our philosophy that Catholic schools have been established to provide an environment of faith, which brings all of life together within the grace and love of God, we have established an anti-bullying policy. It can be:

o Physical: pushing, hitting, kicking, spitting, or any other use of violence, taking items from, forcing to do something unwillingly, etc.

o Verbal: teasing, name-calling, sarcasm, threatening, spreading rumors, etc. o Sexual: verbal, visual, or physical. No form of sexual harassment will be tolerated at

school at any time. Students who sexually harass a student or an employee of the school will automatically be recommended for expulsion.

o Indirect: excluding others on purpose, being unkind, tormenting, using hurtful gestures, writing hurtful comments, etc.

o Technological: the misuse of technology including, but not limited to, teasing, intimidation, defaming, harassing, threatening, or terrorizing anyone by sending or posting e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or website posting, including blogs and social media websites, regardless of whether such acts are committed on or off school property.

Our school-wide bullying prevention program assists students in identifying bullying/harassment and provides students with the skills to deal with bullying situations. Students who participate in bullying or harassment of another individual will receive disciplinary actions such as detention, suspension, or expulsion.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Administration shall investigate all complaints of sexual harassment thoroughly and promptly, and any student who feels that he/she has been sexually harassed shall take his/her complaint to any school employee with whom the student feels comfortable. Any school employee who receives a complaint of sexual harassment shall report the complaint to administration. Administration shall conduct a prompt, thorough investigation into the complaint while maintaining confidentiality. Any student who has a complaint of sexual harassment against an employee, non-employee, or a student engaged in business with the school system shall submit to administration in writing the nature of the complaint, including the specific act or acts, the person or persons who committed the harassment, witnesses to the act complained of and the date(s) and time(s) of the alleged act.

MAJOR INFRACTIONS

The following infractions are considered major infractions to the learning environment and will be dealt with directly by administration:

blatant disrespect bullying/ harassment threats of violence cheating weapon on campus stealing substance abuse fighting misuse of technology

CCS Consequences of Behavior Policy

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SEARCH POLICY Administration reserves the right to search any and all students’ properties such as desks, book bags, lockers, and remove any articles in violation of school policy. Administration reserves the right to conduct a search of student belongings on campus. In addition, the students may be asked to empty their pockets if deemed necessary by administration.

CELL PHONE POLICY The use or possession of cell phones will not be permitted on campus. The “campus” includes loading and unloading areas for cars and buses, in any school building, or on church or campus grounds. The “school day” includes before or after school events, class time, hall and locker time, lunch periods, after-school detention or tutoring, practices for extra-curricular events, bus transportation, and field trips. Any student, if discovered to be in possession of a cell phone, or having utilized this device to call, record, video, text or engage in any form of social media communication, will be subjected to immediate disciplinary action.

PHONE CALLS HOME

In order to make students responsible for their actions, students will not be permitted to call home if they forget gym bags, reports, homework, class projects, field trip forms, notes for after school activities, etc. An exception will be made in cases of medical emergencies or changes in school-sponsored activities.

TECHNOLOGY

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Electronic devices not supplied by Cathedral-Carmel School with access to the Internet will not be allowed on campus. If the policy is violated, the school will not be responsible or liable for electronic devices brought on campus or to any extra-curricular activity.

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY FOR STUDENTS

Cathedral-Carmel has a technology-enhanced curriculum. All students have access to computers with Internet and educational appropriate applications. The intent of technology at Cathedral-Carmel School is to serve as a tool for life-long learning and as a means to facilitate communications in support of research and education. “Acceptable Use” means that students of Cathedral-Carmel School, promise to use the technology equipment and online resources, and Internet access with respect. “Acceptable Use” means students promise to abide by all rules as set forth by the classroom teachers and the school, as well as state and federal laws. The use of technology equipment and online resources Internet access is to enhance learning and teaching activities. Parents must monitor their child’s computer use.

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Technology use at CCS will enhance the learning environment while providing directed guidance and monitoring from school faculty and staff. CCS takes reasonable precautions to restrict access to materials it considers harmful, and to materials that do not support approved educational objectives. CCS adheres to Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPA) by having Internet filters in place in order to protect students from harmful materials online.

● Internet Protection Filters o SonicWall NSA 6600 o Aruba Geofencing Policies o Google Admin SafeSearch and Internet protection policies o YouTube (Teacher approval settings) o Advertising turned off for Google G Suite users o GoGuardian Chromebook Management Software o Webroot virus protection for Windows machines

Student Responsibilities

Student must take responsibility for their actions and words. Users must communicate only in ways that are kind and respectful. *Students will NOT have access to Social Networking on school devices. Students must refrain from becoming “friends” with teachers online (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc.). Students will not share their username and password with anyone. They will not give out any personal information (real name, address, phone number, school name, parents’ information) on the Internet. Students may not use computers and/or the Internet to harass others, to introduce viruses, or to infiltrate protected computer systems. Students may not use other people’s accounts. To reduce the risk of spreading computer viruses, users may not import files from unknown sources. Students are prohibited from using the computers and/or the Internet to access or transmit obscene, offensive, pornographic, or other objectionable material. Students should access only materials appropriate for fulfilling school assignments. Students are cautioned that there may be materials on the Internet that may be deemed inappropriate and access to this type of material for any reason is unacceptable. Students must adhere to copyright rules and licensing agreements when accessing materials. Students may not use their Cathedral-Carmel devices or account for commercial (profit) use, political lobbying, tampering of any outside network or database, playing non-approved games, participating in chat groups or in any illegal activity. Students will not tamper with or modify any Cathedral-Carmel device. Students are strictly prohibited from indebting the school through subscriptions or purchases made online. Students will be responsible for any costs, liability, or damages caused by their inappropriate use of electronic devices. Students’ computer files are monitored by school administrators, system administrators, and/or teachers for compliance with this policy. Students’ efforts to disrupt Internet services and/or computer systems by spreading computer viruses, vandalism, unauthorized entry or destruction of computer files, may result in criminal prosecution under state and federal laws.

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Students who violate these guidelines will be subject, but not limited to, demerits, detention, suspension, or revocation of internet access, network privileges, and computer usage. Other standard disciplinary measures may be applicable to students.

DIOCESE OF LAFAYETTE

THREATS OF VIOLENCE POLICY Safety in our schools is of utmost importance and one of our top priorities. When informed of possible violence or even threats of violence, school administrators take this information seriously. The school has a no-tolerance policy for dealing with and addressing not only real threats of violence, but also those which may be considered frivolous. Even frivolous threats can disrupt the operation of the school. The appropriate penalties for violation of this policy should be clearly stated. ❖ The school administrator contacts the appropriate civil authorities, the sheriff’s office or local

law enforcement agency and follows their directives. ❖ If the threat or danger involves a student or students, parents are contacted immediately. ❖ If the student is on campus, he/she will be detained in a safe place according to directives

received from the local law enforcement agency. ❖ The Superintendent of Catholic Schools will be informed of the threat and the action that is

being taken. ❖ If the threat of danger comes from a non-student, appropriate action is left in the hands of the

civil authorities.

Upon each threat of violence, the incident will be investigated. The parents and the pastor will be notified. A meeting with administration, parents, and the student will be held immediately to discuss the incident, as well as the potential consequences.

IMMEDIATE DANGER OF VIOLENCE OR HARM

Aggressive action will be taken for the protection of all individuals involved. In the event of immediate threat of bodily harm to students, faculty or staff, Cathedral-Carmel has developed procedures for the safety and protection of the students, including notification of the civil authorities, medical assistance, and evacuation procedures. Assistance in development and dissemination of these procedures may be obtained from local law enforcement agencies.

WEAPONS ON CAMPUS R. S. 14:2 of the Third Extraordinary Session of the 1994 Louisiana Legislature creates the crime of the carrying of a dangerous weapon by a student or non-student on school property. The crime is defined as the intentional possession of any dangerous weapon by any student or non-student on a school campus, within 1,000 feet of school property, on a school bus, or at any school function. Whoever is convicted of this crime is subject to a maximum penalty of imprisonment at hard labor for not more than five (5) years.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY The use, possession, or sale of tobacco products, alcohol, or drugs by students on school premises or at school-sponsored functions not on school property is prohibited. A student who possesses, distributes,

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or ingests any mood-altering chemical or illegal drug on school property or at a school function is liable for immediate intervention, assessment, and follow-through according to the school’s policy. In the event that a student is referred to administration for a first violation of the substance abuse policy, the following procedure will be employed:

a. The student must call his/her parents and inform them of the charges and arrange transportation home.

b. The student will be suspended. The length of suspension will be determined by administration.

c. Administration shall confer with the student’s parents during the suspension period. d. Administration may require that the parents obtain a professional assessment for the

student’s condition and may require the student to agree to participate in follow-through treatment as deemed necessary by a healthcare professional in order to be readmitted to school.

e. Any student referred to administration for a second violation of the substance abuse policy will be suspended immediately, and administration shall convene an expulsion hearing.

HEALTH & MEDICATION INFORMATION The State Board of Health requires each student to have on file in the school office a health card indicating proper immunization, completed and signed by a physician or the parish health unit. A first aid program is maintained at school; however, it is necessary for the school to have two people to contact in the event that parents cannot be reached. Please make sure that the parental contacts are willing to come to school to get your child and care for them in the event of illness. You are requested to keep the school office informed of any changes in phone numbers, emergency numbers, residence address, or email addresses. In order to protect your child and other children at school, the following guidelines have been established for the taking of medication during school hours: ❖ Do not send prescription or non-prescription medicines to school with your child. ❖ If your child must take medicine during school hours, the parent must bring the medicine in

the original container from the pharmacy to the nurse’s office, together with a “Medication Form” filled out by the attending physician.

❖ All medicines will be stored in a locked area at the nurse’s station. ❖ Epi-pens may be carried by students with proper medical documentation.

Fever or Vomiting: When a student checks out of school due to a fever or vomiting, he/she must remain home the following day and/or be “fever free” for 24 hours. If the nurse suspects that a child has a contagious illness, a parent will be called to pick up the child. The student must remain at home until the doctor and the school nurse have cleared the student to return to school. Head Lice: When a case of head lice is reported, all students in that grade level are screened privately to determine if head lice are present. Parents of students at that grade level are notified in writing. Students found to be infected are sent home to receive treatment. Students will not be allowed to return to the classroom until the school nurse has cleared them.

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EMERGENCY CLOSURE OF SCHOOL

Any decision made concerning the closing of Cathedral-Carmel School is at the discretion of the administration. If the Lafayette Parish School System announces closure prior to the beginning of the day, Cathedral-Carmel will also be closed. In the event of inclement weather, Cathedral-Carmel follows decisions made by the Lafayette Parish School System. In the event of a school closure, parents will receive a text message via our Parent Alert System. Parent may also check the local radio, TV stations, or the school Facebook page for confirmation. In the case of other emergencies, parents will be notified by email, radio, television, and/or our Parent Alert System, as well as the Cathedral-Carmel website for the dismissal procedures.

STUDENT INSURANCE

Cathedral-Carmel does not have insurance to cover student accidents on campus. The family’s health insurance is expected to provide coverage in these instances.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

To ensure the orderly and safe evacuation of school buildings in emergency situations, regular drills are necessary. Emergency evacuation routes are posted near the doors in all the rooms. All drills are to be treated seriously; no inappropriate behavior will be tolerated. Our “CCS Crisis Plan” is housed in all classrooms/offices and is reviewed regularly by all staff members.

LOCK DOWN DRILLS Lock Down drills will be held once during the fall semester and once during the spring semester. All teachers are responsible for instructing students in the proper procedures for lockdown drills.

FIRE DRILLS Fire drills will be held once a month. All teachers are responsible for instructing students in the proper procedures for evacuating the building and proceeding to their designated area. Teachers must bring their roll books, turn off lights, and close all classroom doors. Once outside, teachers call roll to assure presence of all students.

ASBESTOS INFORMATION Our school’s physical plant contains a small amount of asbestos in a non-friable (not powdery or brittle) state. The Asbestos Contact Person inspects the buildings several times a year and maintains them in a non-friable condition. A copy of the asbestos management plan required by the federal government is located in the business office. This is updated annually.

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CATHEDRAL-CARMEL SCHOOL FOUNDATION and DEVELOPMENT The mission of the Cathedral-Carmel Foundation is to support the school in its efforts to teach Catholic values in an environment of educational excellence. The Foundation seeks to build a corpus of funds to be invested for the long-range support of the school. The Foundation provides earnings from these investments for projects which fulfill the mission of Cathedral-Carmel School. The Cathedral-Carmel Foundation is a non-profit corporation whose purpose is to support the moral, social, educational, and material welfare of Cathedral-Carmel School. Specific objectives include:

1. Establish, maintain, manage, and administer funds and distribute income to aid the school as approved by the board of directors. In practice, the pastor and principal provide guidance as to school priorities and make such requests to the board of directors.

2. Provide networking activities around the school among stakeholders especially alumni, faculty, and parents.

The Development Office of the school coordinates and assists with the marketing, public relations, and strategic planning efforts of the administration, the Parent Booster Association, the Advisory Council, the CCABC, and the Alumni. This office also works with the Foundation to solicit contributions from all potential sources in order to fulfill the short-term and long-term goals of Cathedral-Carmel School.

CATHEDRAL-CARMEL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION The Alumni Association is open to all men and women who graduated from Cathedral, Mt. Carmel, Cathedral-Carmel High School or Cathedral-Carmel School. The mission of the Cathedral-Carmel Alumni Association is to promote fellowship among alumni, to strengthen the ties of loyalty to their alma mater, to honor the traditions of the Sisters of Mount Carmel and the De La Salle Christian Brothers, and to support the school in fostering the present and preparing for the future.

PARENT BOOSTER ASSOCIATION (PBA) The Parent Booster Association is the parent organization at CCS. The primary focus of the PBA is to foster and develop growth of spiritual, moral, academic, civic, cultural and physical activities of CCS. The organization plays an integral role in supporting activities pertaining to the welfare of the students and faculty of Cathedral-Carmel. The organization is led by an Executive Committee and Leadership Team, but PBA membership consists of all parents.

CATHEDRAL-CARMEL ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB (CCABC) The CCABC is an organization consisting of a group of parents, staff, and other interested parties whose mission is to promote and support Cathedral-Carmel School’s athletic programs in a safe and Christ-centered environment. The financial support provided by the CCABC helps to enhance a successful athletic program.

CAMPUS VISITORS

All parents and visitors must report to the office for a “visitor’s pass.” Parents and visitors should not visit the classrooms during the school day unless an appointment has been made. This procedure is necessary since unscheduled visits interrupt the class during valuable instructional time, and it is also a protective measure for the safety of all of our students. Staff members are instructed to send any parent and/or visitor back to the front office to “sign in” if the parent/visitor reports to the classroom without a visitor’s pass.

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TRANSPORTATION The Lafayette Parish School Board Transportation Department provides bus service for our students; therefore, students may ride only assigned buses. In the morning Lafayette Parish requires students to be at the bus stops at least ten (10) minutes before scheduled arrival of the buses. Only in an emergency situation will a child be allowed to ride an unassigned bus. Students needing to ride a different bus home or to school are required to have a note signed and dated by a parent, including parent contact information. Parents should also call the bus driver to obtain permission for their child to ride to ensure that there is room on the bus. Parents must be aware that the bus driver may refuse admission on the bus because of overcrowding.

In the event that a bus driver is unable to run his/her designated route and a substitute bus driver is unavailable from the Lafayette Parish School System, parents will be notified through our Parent Alert System.

Students who do not ride a bus must be picked up by 3:10 in the car rider line. Students who walk home or to a parent’s office must not leave school before the first dismissal bell, and they must have written permission on file in the office. All students who do not ride a bus remain in the gym until parents arrive. Students not picked up by 3:10 are sent to the front office.

Morning Drop-Off Car riders may be dropped off beginning at 7:25 until 7:55 using the Versailles Street entrance only. All students will enter campus through the gates between the cafeteria and the PreK building. All 1st-8th grade students are to report to the gym upon arriving at school. PreK and Kindergarten students are to report to the cafeteria. In the mornings, you may walk your child to the school gate on Versailles Street. The drop-off procedure calls for cars to approach the campus from University Avenue and drop off students in the car rider line along Versailles Street. After the gate is locked at 7:55, parents must accompany students to the front office for a tardy slip. Parents will not be allowed to drop off their children in the church parking lot or in the MidSouth Bank parking lot. Change of Transportation Parents who need to change transportation during the school day must do so in person or send a note to their child’s teacher that morning. Phone calls, text messages, and emails are not allowed during the day to change type of transportation. Afternoon Dismissal Dismissal begins at 2:50. Car-riders may be picked up between 2:50 and 3:10. If your child is not picked up by 3:10, he/she will report to the front office. On the first day of school, car rider signs will be made and given to your child’s homeroom teacher. For the safety of your child, once you receive a car rider sign it is mandatory that you place the sign on the rearview mirror of your vehicle. Vehicles should line up on Versailles Street entering from University Avenue and facing St. John Street. (The Lafayette Department of Parking and Transit will not allow any parking or lining up on Parkside Drive.) If you are visiting throughout the school day and park on the church side of the school, please adhere to the Fire Zone/No Parking area. Additionally, parking in the chiropractor’s office parking lot and Handicapped spots is not allowed. Parents cannot park in the car rider line during afternoon dismissal. Parents may park on the bank side of Versailles Street if spots are available and walk to get their child at the gym entrance.

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For safety reasons, due to increased afternoon traffic on Versailles and St. John Street, “walk-up” parents will be allowed to pick up their child(ren) in the gym only until 2:55. If you are unable to arrive by 2:55, we ask that you remain in the car rider line to pick up your child. Please ENTER the gym through the side doors on Versailles Street (next to the dumpsters) and then EXIT through the back side doors on Versailles closest to St. John. Gym doors will be closed after 2:55.

FOOD and NUTRITION

School Lunch It is the policy of the Diocese of Lafayette that all elementary students must participate in the School Nutrition Program. Students may not bring bag lunches to school. The School Nutrition Program, in addition to providing nutritious meals to each student, also functions as a laboratory for providing nutrition education to students. Children learn lifetime food habits during these early formative years. As per Diocesan Policy, if your child has specific dietary needs, the “Diet Prescription for Meals at School” form should be completed and signed by a physician and forwarded to the cafeteria manager and the administration. This form is located on our school website at “About CCS/ Parent Resources.” The entire form must be completed by the appropriate physician. The physician must indicate on the form “Specific Foods to Omit,” as well as “Specific Foods to Include” so that our cafeteria staff is aware of what meals to prepare for your child. Forms will not be accepted if this information is not listed on the form. The required physician’s diet plan will be reviewed and overseen by the Director of Food and Nutrition at the Diocese. Diet Prescriptions must be renewed at the beginning of each school year even though there may not be any changes to the diet prescription. Cafeteria Fees Federal regulations require that all students and teachers pay for their meals in advance. Elementary students will receive a monthly bill that has been prepared by the CCS Cafeteria Manager. Parents can make payments by check or they can go to www.schoolpaymentsolutions.com or myschoolbucks.com to set up an account, monitor their child’s lunch account, and make payments. Checks should be made payable to Food and Nutrition. If any cafeteria fees are past due at the time of registration, students’ registration will not be processed. In addition, all cafeteria fees must be paid in order for a student to try out for any Cathedral-Carmel sport during the school year, to take final exams, to participate in any of the end of the year ceremonies, and to receive his/her report card at the end of the school year. Any issues concerning cafeteria fees or balances due must be addressed directly with the Cafeteria Manager by calling 337-504-3000. Diocesan policy states that any balance left in a student’s account will be rolled over to the following school year. Eighth graders’ balance will be rolled into a sibling’s account, or if there are no siblings, then a refund is given. Applications for federally subsidized free or reduced price lunches for students are distributed yearly. Parents are responsible for filing an application for each child according to instructions and deadlines on the form. The Food and Nutrition Office may authorize the non-payment of cafeteria fees if the circumstance in a particular case warrants.

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BIRTHDAY TREATS / SCHOOL PARTIES Birthday Treats Birthday treats will only be allowed in grades PreK, Kindergarten, REC, and TREC. Birthdays at other grade levels can be acknowledged in class, but without a treat. A conscious effort is being made to create an environment on campus that is safe for our students that suffer from severe allergies, as well as limiting the number of sweets consumed during the students’ school day.

School Parties All classroom parties must be approved by the teacher and administration. Siblings should not be checked out of class to attend parties or special programs that involve classes other than their own. Refreshments should be pre-approved by the teacher. As a reminder, we are a tree nut and peanut-free school. Private party invitations given out at school in grades PreK – 8th grade will be allowed only if all girls and/or all boys receive an invitation. Teachers should distribute the invitations.

CCS COMMUNICATION

CCS Website: Our school website (www.cathedralcarmel.com) provides information for prospective parents, as well as our existing school community. Along with a comprehensive overview of our academic and spiritual curriculum and athletic events, the website provides a link to our FACTS database. The website provides a variety of resources beneficial to parents and students. The Daily ROAR: A daily email to parents communicating important news and events. This daily communication should be considered a primary source of information for camps and workshops, houses the school calendar and many other important resources under its Previous News section. CCS Facebook and Instagram: Our school Facebook and Instagram pages are great ways to connect with the CCS Community. Follow us @ccstigers1 on Instagram.

Parent Alert System: Our Parent Alert System is another means of communicating important information to our parents. SMS messages will be made when information needs to be communicated quickly.

FACTS: FACTS SIS is an online comprehensive school administrative and student information system. Cathedral-Carmel uses FACTS Family Online, a component of FACTS, to improve the flow of information among administrators, parents, students, and teachers. Through this program, parents have the ability to access information such as student grades, attendance, progress reports, quarter report cards, and billing information FACTS Family Online Logon and set up Instructions can be found on our school website: About CCS - Parent Resources - Business Office - FACTS Family Online.

Communication Wednesday: Every Wednesday, parents should check their children’s backpacks for important school-related information, test papers, flyers, etc.

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS / NAMES CCS reserves the right to use student names and photos for publicity purposes. If the parents object, they should indicate their preference on the “Computer Usage and Internet Access – Publishing Permission” form which is sent home at the beginning of each school year. Individual students will never be singled out for any type of publication outside the confines of our school or church parish without written consent from a parent.

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GUIDELINES FOR ADDRESSING CONCERNS If there is a concern with a teacher or a teacher’s policy: ❖ Discuss the concern directly with the teacher as soon as possible; ❖ If a resolution is not obtained between the parent and the teacher, the parent or the teacher

should then discuss the concern with administration.

ADVISORY COUNCIL APPEAL PROCESS General When the parent of a student at Cathedral-Carmel School believes that a rule, regulation or policy has been violated, misapplied or misrepresented, and that person has not had the problem satisfactorily resolved at the school, a local appeal may be made to the Cathedral-Carmel Advisory Council. If, after the issue is reviewed by the Advisory Council, the complainant still believes the issue is not satisfactorily resolved, an appeal may be made to the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council.

Local Appeal To file a local appeal, the complainant should contact the Cathedral-Carmel Advisory Council President.

1. The selected chairperson will obtain whatever details necessary and discuss the matter with the principal. If the school’s administration has not been consulted, the individual concerned will be referred to the school and the chairperson will take no further action at that time.

2. If the school has completed its actions, the chairperson will put the complainant on notice in writing of its findings and decisions. An appeal may be submitted to the Advisory Council. The complainant must submit an appeal to the Advisory Council within a five (5) working day period. The written appeal should briefly provide details and specifically cite the rule, regulation or policy that is involved in the situation. The Advisory Council will have ten (10) working days to submit an answer to the complainant.

3. Upon receipt of the written appeal, the chairperson will so advise the pastor. The pastor will consult with the executive committee of the Advisory Council. If it is decided that the appeal does not merit a formal review, the complainant will be informed of that fact and the case will be closed at the local level. The complainant may appeal that decision to the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council for review. If the pastor believes, after consultation with the executive committee of the Advisory Council, that the appeal should be referred to a local grievance committee, he will appoint or direct the chairperson to appoint such a committee. The committee may include Advisory Council members, parents, faculty or any other person that can provide a fair and impartial hearing. The committee should consist of 5 individuals, and the hearing should be conducted without undue delay.

4. At the hearing, the committee will meet separately with each party; however, a meeting with both parties simultaneously may be held if the committee chooses. The committee must understand that its review is to focus only on whether or not a rule, regulation, or policy was violated, misapplied or misrepresented. The committee will confer privately after all concerned parties have been heard and relay its recommendations to the pastor. If, as a result of its review, the committee believes that changes to rules, regulations or policies might be appropriate, the committee will make suitable recommendations to the Advisory Council and to the Principal.

5. The pastor will communicate the appeal decision directly to all concerned, or he may ask the chairperson of the Advisory Council to do so. Notification should be in writing and should be made within five (5) working days after receipt of the report of the committee.

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6. Either party may appeal the local decision to the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council should a review at that level be desired. The appeal should be made in writing to the Superintendent of Catholic Schools within five (5) working days after receipt of the result of the local appeal.

Diocesan Appeal 1. Upon receipt of a proper request for diocesan review, the superintendent, after consultation

with the president of the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council, will decide whether or not to conduct a formal hearing. The superintendent will inform all concerned as appropriate.

2. If a hearing is to be conducted, the superintendent will consult with the president of the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council, and then appoint an Ad Hoc Committee of the Diocesan Schools Advisory Council to hear the grievance.

3. The procedure to be followed by this committee is the same as on the local level. When the hearing is complete, the superintendent will make the appropriate notification.

4. All decisions at the diocesan level are final, and the case is closed at this point.

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Cathedral-Carmel School Student/Parent Contract

Please sign and return these completed forms to your child’s homeroom teacher by the end of the 1st week of school. A separate form must be signed for each child in your family.

Handbook Contract *The Parent-Student Handbook can be viewed online at www.cathedralcarmel.com Student Name (Please Print) _______________________ Homeroom Teacher: _______________________

Parent Name(s) ____________________________________________________ We have reviewed the Cathedral-Carmel HANDBOOK together with our child and understand that this handbook is our contract with Cathedral-Carmel School. Please note that the school administration and CCS Advisory Council reserve the right to revise and interpret these policies as necessary.

Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________________ Date: __________________

Technology Acceptable Use Policy We have reviewed the TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY in the Parent-Student handbook and we understand the Cathedral-Carmel School guidelines for technology equipment and Internet access. We also understand that if these rules are broken, the use of these educational tools may be taken away from the student and other disciplinary or legal action may be taken. As the parent, I recognize that the school has initiated reasonable safeguards to filter and to monitor technology use. I agree not to hold Cathedral-Carmel School responsible for materials my child may encounter on the Internet.

We have discussed these guidelines together and agree to abide by the provisions stated. I hereby give permission to CCS to permit my child to use technology and to have access to the Internet. Student Signature:_________________________________________ Date:__________________ Parent Signature: ________________________________________ Date:__________________

Publishing Permission

______ YES – We hereby grant permission for Cathedral-Carmel School, and authorized persons responsible, to publish information including, but not limited to, names, pictures, videos (i.e. commercials, virtual tours, etc.), biographies, accomplishments, club activities, and/or extracurricular concerning activities of Cathedral-Carmel School on ALL school publications (website, CCS Facebook page, printed materials, advertisement, etc.). We understand that our child’s name WILL NOT be attached to any pictures or students’ work. ______ NO – We do not grant permission for Cathedral-Carmel School, and authorized persons responsible, to publish any information, photo, or works of our child.

Student’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: __________________ Parent/Guardian’s Signature: ______________________________ Date: _________________

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