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2016-2017

Immaculate Conception Catholic School

811 Telfair Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706)722-9964 (706)722-9994 FAX 2016-2017

Immaculate Conception Catholic School Parent-Student Handbook

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MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATION

Welcome to Immaculate Conception Catholic School, the parish school for the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Communication between home and school is essential in promoting our students’ success. Our handbook is one means of

communication. Many policies, regulations, and services are discussed throughout these pages. Please read this handbook

to or with your child(ren). It is also important that you keep this handbook readily available throughout the year should

questions arise.

Information in this book should provide you with answers to many questions you might have about day-to-day operations

of our school. We are always available to clarify any school matter. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call us.

Parents are encouraged to visit the school and to attend scheduled meetings with the teachers. Mutual benefits occur when

there is a meaningful exchange between home and school.

It is our desire that this handbook will be helpful to you. We hope this will be a successful and satisfying year for you.

Mrs. Allison Palfy

Principal

ADMINISTRATION

Fr. Jacek Szuster, Pastor

Mrs. Allison Palfy, Principal

Mrs. Debbie DeRoller, Development Director/Finance Officer

SCHOOL ADDRESS

Immaculate Conception Catholic School

811 Telfair Street

Augusta, Georgia 30901

(706) 722-9964

(706) 722-9994 FAX

Parents and students are expected to follow and abide by all Diocesan, school, and church policies and procedures.

These rules and regulations contained herein are the basis for maintaining a safe and secure environment for all the

school’s constituents. Failure to abide by these policies, procedures, and in keeping with the traditions of the Catholic

Christian environment may result in disenrollment from the school.

I UNDERSTAND THAT THE ADMINISTRATION OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL

RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES OR DISCOUNTINUE POLICIES AT ANY TIME WITHOUT PRIOR

NOTICE TO THE PARENTS AND STUDENTS.

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IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL

MISSION: The Immaculate Conception Catholic School community is committed to developing Christ-like minds, hearts, and souls

within the Catholic faith tradition by promoting academic excellence and service.

VISION:

Immaculate Conception Catholic School will provide a dynamic program of academic excellence, faithful Catholic

service, and evangelization within the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church community.

GOALS:

1. To ensure that Catholic principles are the cornerstone for all decisions,

programs, and staff selection.

2. To ensure that school improvement and excellence are an ongoing focus.

3. To ensure that the learning experience enriches the mind, body and spirit.

PHILOSOPHY:

Immaculate Conception Catholic School, the parish school for the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, is dedicated to

evangelization through Catholic education. As such, it welcomes all children as the school strives to help them learn,

grow, and come to know God. The curriculum, the values, the structures, and the goals of Immaculate Conception

Catholic School are rooted in the belief of God and the Catholic Church, and in the belief that every child has the ability

to know and respond to God.

SCHOOL HISTORY:

Immaculate Conception Catholic School had its beginnings in 1902, when Franciscan Sisters opened a boarding school

for girls at St. Benedict Convent on 12th Street. In 1913, the African Missionary Fathers built and dedicated Immaculate

Conception Church and School on the corner of Laney Walker Boulevard and 11th Street. They asked the Franciscan

Sisters to bring their boarding school students and take on this new and larger teaching mission. Since that time,

Immaculate Conception Catholic School has been providing excellence in education within a Catholic environment. The

Franciscan Sisters served as teachers and administrators until 2004. Today, Immaculate Conception Catholic School

enjoys a new home as the parish school for The Church of the Most Holy Trinity.

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ADMISSION/DISCRIMINATION 5010 POLICY: Schools in the diocese of Savannah do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex (unless traditionally a

single sex school), national origin, or handicapping condition (if, with reasonable accommodation on the part of the school,

the handicapped person could be accommodated) in the admission of students, or in the administration of policies regarding

education, athletics, or any school sponsored programs. In admitting students where facilities are limited, Diocesan schools

give preference to Catholic students living within parish boundaries; secondly, to Catholic students living outside parish

boundaries; finally, to non-Catholic students.

5140 POLICY: Schools in the Catholic Diocese of Savannah shall adhere to provisions outlined in Title IX of the federal

code.

Immaculate Conception Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, National origin, or

handicapping condition in the admission of students, or in the administration of policies regarding education,

athletics, or any school sponsored program.

SCHOOL PROCEDURES:

a) Students are not fully registered at Immaculate Conception Catholic School until all the steps for

registration are completed.

b) Immaculate Conception Catholic School does not accept students that have been expelled or asked to

leave from another private or public school for disciplinary reasons.

c) Students who wish to enroll from another school, must have a conduct grade of 85% or higher on the

last report card to be considered for admittance.

d) Students wishing to enroll with a current IEP will be placed in either the inclusion setting, learning lab,

or self-contained programs. Determination of placement will be made after testing has been completed

by the special education team.

e) Students wishing to enroll, who do not have a current IEP but score at least a grade level behind their

current grade level placement on the entrance assessment, will be placed in the learning lab program.

f) Pre K: New applicants must be potty trained. Students entering pre-k must be either 3 or 4 by

September 1st of the current school year.

g) Kindergarten: Students entering kindergarten must be 5 by September 1st of the current school year.

New applicants will be given an entrance assessment prior to acceptance.

h) Grade 1: New applicants will be given an entrance assessment prior to acceptance. Students entering

first grade must be 6 by September 1st of the current school year.

i) Grades 2-8: New applicants will be given an entrance assessment prior to acceptance.

j) To remain at Immaculate Conception Catholic School, a student shall conform to approved norms of

behavior and academic achievement as outlined in this handbook.

The steps for registering at Immaculate Conception Catholic School are as follows:

New Families:

1. Contact the school to set up an appointment to meet with the principal. Make sure to bring all prior report cards,

IEPs, and testing information to this meeting.

2. Set up a follow-up appointment to have the student(s) complete the entrance assessment. The cost of the assessment

is $50 per child and must be paid in advance of the testing session. The assessment usually takes an hour.

3. After testing, a determination will be made as to which program/grade level best suits the academic needs of the

student(s).

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4. Complete the application for enrollment, pay the $500 registration fee per child, sign the tuition contract, and

complete the payment plan options form.

Returning Families: 1. Complete the application for re-enrollment.

2. Pay the $500 registration fee, sign the tuition contract, and complete the payment options form.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Drop off in the morning is from 7:30am-8:15am. Students will be kept in the cafeteria from 7:30am until 8:00am. Pick up

in the afternoon is from 3:15pm-3:30pm. Students not picked up by 3:30 will be placed in afterschool for a fee. Both

morning and afternoon dismissals will run the same way. Parents MUST have the school pick-up paper in their car

window in order for students to be released.

All students will be picked up in the parking lot in the front of the school by the office. Parents will enter the parking lot

off of Eighth Street and follow the arrows around. Students will be brought out to the cars of parents. Parents are not to

get out of cars at any time. All cars will wait until the signal has been given and then leave the parking lot together to

exit onto Telfair Street.

Parents may choose to park and come into the school to pick up a student. Parents choosing this option must park in a

parking space on the office side parking lot and come into the building. No students will be allowed to be dropped off or

picked up from the pass through lane.

During Arrival and Dismissal:

Parents are to stay in their cars at all times.

Parents are to stay off of their cell phones.

Parents are to quickly and safely pick up their children and exit the parking lot on signal.

ALL POLICIES ARE TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THE STUDENTS AT ICCS.

ATTENDANCE/TARDIES 5060 POLICY: Schools in the Diocese of Savannah must comply with attendance requirements established by the State of

Georgia in accordance with Diocesan Regulations.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

To be counted as present for perfect attendance purposes, a student must be present for the full academic day – no tardies,

which are defined as late arrivals and/or early checkouts.

ATTENDANCE:

Students are expected to attend school daily. Parents should provide the school with a written explanation of any absence.

Students may be excused from school in case of:

1. Personal illness.

2. Serious illness or death in the immediate family.

3. Special and recognized holidays observed by faith.

4. Mandated order of government agencies.

5. Emergencies that are reasonable and necessitate absences from school.

6. Visit with parent or legal guardian prior to deployment or during leave from overseas assignment up to 5 days per

school year.

7. Pre-approved special event absence (form is found on the website and must be submitted to the principal at least 7

days prior to the special event for approval).

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All other absences are unexcused. Students will only be afforded the opportunity to make up work when absences are

excused. Parents must provide written notes for absences. Please call the office by 9:00 AM to notify teachers of child’s

absence.

It is the duty of parents to retain copies of all documentation of excuses for the duration of the school year and must present

them upon request. All attendance excuses are required within 2 school days of the student’s return to school; otherwise,

the absence will be considered unexcused. All documentation for excusing an absence must specify the particular day

missed.

Vacations taken during the school year are discouraged. If an emergency trip becomes necessary, a child may be taken

from school provided work is made up. However, it is unfair to the child and his teacher to ask for work to be assigned

before the trip. Teachers plan weekly with daily revisions. Any work assigned could become just “busy work” over a

period of several days without the benefit of classroom instruction.

When absences are excused, students shall be afforded the opportunity to make up all work. It will be the student’s

responsibility to attend to make up work promptly upon return to school and to complete all assignments within a reasonable

time. Parents, please do not call the teacher and expect missed assignments to be ready the day of absence. Teachers are

allowed 24 hours for assignment preparation.

PROCEDURES FOR EXCESSIVE ABSENCES:

Immaculate Conception Catholic School places a high importance on attendance. The procedures for addressing

attendance are as follows:

1. Once a student reaches 5 total unexcused absences for the year, the school will send a letter to the

student’s parents informing them of a required meeting with the counselor to address attendance

concerns.

2. Once a student reaches a total of 10 total absences for the year, the school will send a letter to the

student’s parents informing them of a required meeting with an administrator to discuss

attendance concerns.

3. Once a student reaches a total of 16 total absences for the year, the school will send a letter to the

student’s parents informing them of possible retention due to excessive absences.

TARDIES:

It is the parent’s responsibility to see that students report to school on time. A school tardy is defined as any time a

student is either late for school or leaves school early. Students are expected to be on time each day and to remain

at school for the entire school day. The school day begins at 8:15 AM and ends at 3:15 PM daily. In order for a

tardy to be excused, a parent must supply the school with an original excuse from either a doctor’s office or

government agency. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO SIGN THEMSELVES IN OR OUT OF

THE SCHOOL. IF A STUDENT IS TARDY TO SCHOOL, A PARENT MUST SIGN THE STUDENT IN

AT THE FRONT OFFICE. Thereafter, only validated excuses (doctor appointments, directed court appearances

etc.) can be submitted for the tardiness to be excused. For students with no excuse or an invalid excuse for being

tardy to school or class, the tardiness is counted as unexcused.

IT IS ASKED THAT PARENTS MAKE DOCTOR AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS FOR STUDENTS AFTER SCHOOL

HOURS EXCEPT IN CASES OF EMERGENCY.

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BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM Before school care is available daily from 7:00am until 8:00am. Afterschool care is available daily from 3:30pm until

6:00pm.

Registration Fee (one-time fee) $25.00 per student

Pick up between 3:30 – 3:45 PM $10.00 per occurrence per student

Before Care 7AM-7:30AM $20.00 per week

After Care 3:30PM-6:00PM $50.00 per week

Before/After Care Combo $60.00 per week

After 6:00 PM – late fee $1.00 per minute

CONFERENCES 6070 POLICY: Parents, guardians, agents, and others having legitimate business with the school shall be informed to

make appointments at a mutually convenient time so classes will not be interrupted.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

If at any time a parent has a question regarding his/her child, the child’s teacher should be contacted. When a parent

wishes to conference with the teacher, an appointment can be made. Please do not attempt to discuss matters before school

begins or during afternoon dismissal without an appointment. A teacher’s time before class is used for immediate

preparation and organization. When arriving at the school for a conference, please sign in at the office, and the teacher

will be called to meet and escort you to the conference area. Conferences provide teachers with an opportunity to present

parents with suggestions for complimenting the child’s work at school. Likewise, parents have an opportunity to express

their observations and concerns and to discuss with the teacher the uniqueness of each individual child. Conferences,

therefore, should be well planned and should result in the sharing of pertinent information which will benefit the teacher,

the parents, and the child. Please follow the procedure below to set up a conference with any school personnel.

Appointments with school personnel can be made by sending a note, sending an email, or calling the school office (706-

722-9964) and leaving a message on the person’s voice mail. Please give your name, telephone number, date, and a brief

message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

DISCIPLINE 5110 POLICY: Students shall comply with all rules of the school and submit to all reasonable authority of the teachers and

others in authority over them.

Each school must develop its own disciplinary code in accordance with Diocesan regulations and publish its procedures in

the school’s parent handbook. A copy of the school handbook will be sent to the Catholic Schools Office.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Effective learning is dependent upon effective discipline. Students need and deserve a controlled and proper atmosphere in

order to attain and develop academic skills. Parental support and cooperation is required in the handling of all discipline

problems. Discipline in the classroom is maintained by each individual teacher. Discipline in the corridors, lavatories, play

areas, assemblies, etc., is the responsibility of all faculty members. A rigid atmosphere in the school is not desired, but

neither is an overly permissive one. Minor infractions of school regulations are handled by the classroom teacher.

Disrespect to any faculty or staff member cannot be tolerated. All discipline is administered at the discretion of the

administration.

Social Media / Internet

Students are expected to respect themselves, their classmates, the adults at the school, and the school at all times, including

on the internet. Students should not use the internet, including social media, to communicate frustrations or gossip about

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members of the school community. Students can be disciplined for words and images posted on the internet that present our

school community in a negative manner. Such postings will also require immediate removal of the information posted.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying will not be tolerated. Harassing, impersonating, tricking, excluding, and cyberstalking are examples of

cyberbullying. Do not participate in social media with the intent to harm, hurt, or intimidate someone else. Engaging in

these behaviors, or any online activities intended to harm (physically or emotionally) another student, faculty or staff

member, may result in disciplinary action at school and loss of privileges. In some cases, cyberbullying is a criminal offense

and will be turned over to proper authorities.

Lunchroom Behavior Students are also expected to behave in the school lunchroom in a courteous manner and should follow these rules:

1. Get all materials first time through the line.

2. Be a role model by following cafeteria rules, using kind words and helping others.

3. Use a “whisper” voice.

4. Respect adults, peers, and property.

5. Use good table manners.

6. Clean up when leaving.

The following discipline systems are used with students in the designated grade level placements.

GRADES Pre-K - 3

Teachers handle infractions that occur in their classrooms in an appropriate manner maintaining school policy. A chart is

used in each classroom as a physical reminder to the student of appropriate behavior. A note will go home to parents

when an infraction occurs.

GRADES 4-8

Teachers handle infractions that occur in an appropriate manner maintaining school policy.

Teachers will communicate with parents when discipline notices are sent home with students. It is also the responsibility

of the students to communicate their discipline notices to the parents. When it is necessary to impose disciplinary

consequences, teachers and school administrators will follow a progressive discipline process. The degree of the

disciplinary consequence to be imposed will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular student, and will

take into account the student’s disciplinary history, the age of the student, and other relevant factors. Disciplinary

consequences are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with the

characteristics representative of our school’s core values. The following disciplinary consequences may be imposed for any

violations of the school and classroom rules and expectations:

Warning and/or counseling with an administrator

Notification of Parent

Parent Conference

Loss of Privileges

Suspension – In-School or Out of School

Temporary Removal from Class or Activity

Referral to Law Enforcement

Recommendation for Expulsion

Weekly Report/Contract Program At the discretion of the principal, a student may be placed on a weekly report/contract program. The student will meet

weekly with the principal and a weekly report will be sent to parents. If behavioral problems continue, a student may be

placed on probation and asked to leave if behavior does not improve.

Disciplinary Actions

Discipline problems can be solved through proper communications between parents and the teacher. School discipline

can be undermined when parents criticize school authority; therefore, parents should consult the teacher about all the facts

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before making any hasty decisions or commenting on a discipline problem in the presence of their children or other

parents.

Actions Liable for Disciplinary Action

Actions liable for disciplinary action include but are not limited to: uniform code violations, chewing gum on school

property, eating during class, excessive talking or loudness, unacceptable written or spoken language, failure to adhere to

school, classroom, church, and playground rules, unauthorized use of cell phones or other electronic devices on campus

(before, after, and during school), cheating, plagiarism, forgery, disrespect to authority, bullying and/or cyberbullying

(physically, emotionally, academically, or socially), aggressive behavior (physical, verbal, written), dangerous horseplay,

dishonesty, theft, destruction of school property, vandalism, and an accumulation of offenses

Actions Liable for In-School and Out of School Suspension

Severe disruptive behavior problems

Bullying: physically, emotionally, academically, or socially

Destruction of property - fine for replacement of property

Stealing

Fighting

Pornographic materials

Possession or use of tobacco products on school property or during school related activities

Continuous accumulation of or multiple detentions

Suspension is the temporary removal of the student from academic and extra-curricular activities. Suspension can be

imposed at the discretion of the administration. Any missed work or tests during this time will result in a grade of zero.

Immaculate Conception Catholic School expectations and consequences listed within the discipline/bullying policy

are:

Expectations

My behavior towards others will reflect the Gospel values that I am being taught at Immaculate Conception Catholic

School; therefore,

I will not interfere with the learning of others.

I will not stand in the way of those working to do their personal best.

I will not harm others physically, verbally, or emotionally. I will not allow or encourage others to do so.

I will not interfere with other students’ possessions.

I will care for my school and its environment.

I will report if I am being bullied or see others being bullied. I will report it to my parents or a faculty member.

Possible Consequences

Counseled by teacher or faculty member and notification to parent with explanation of offenses.

Counseled by the school counselor and phone call to parent with explanation of offenses.

In-school suspension and parent/teacher/student/counselor/principal conference to discuss concerns and

corrective plan.

Out-of-school suspension, returning to school after a conference as described in step three.

Recommendation of expulsion from school and all parties meeting with the pastor.

Possible consequences are at the discretion of the faculty of Immaculate Conception Catholic School based on the

circumstances of each situation.

Students who are suspended from school, or who serve an in-school suspension, will not be allowed to attend any school

related activities (day or evening) during the time of suspension.

Actions Liable for Expulsion

Possession or use of alcohol and/or drugs on school property or during school related activities

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Continuous disruptive behavior problems

Students receiving repeated suspensions

Possessing, using, or threatening to use a weapon or instrument of harm

Continuous or severe bullying

The principal is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any disciplinary rule for just cause at his or

her discretion.

Conduct Recognition

Rewards in grades PreK-8 will be determined by the individual class teacher.

Cell Phones / Electronic Equipment Grades PK-8: Cell phones/Apple Watches are not allowed in the classroom or before/after school program. Cell

phones/Apple Watches brought to school should be turned in during homeroom. At dismissal, they will be picked up by

the student.

STUDENTS MAY NOT BRING personal toys, games, electronics that are not for instructional purposes specified by the

school, playing cards or any other non-school related item on campus or to the Before/After School Program. Parents will

collect these items from the teacher and/or office if brought to the school. Confiscated Items All confiscated items will require parents to pick them up from the school.

Plagiarism/Cheating

Immaculate Conception Catholic School does not condone cheating or plagiarism in any way, as it depletes the credibility

of our academic environment and is not in line with our mission and values. Plagiarism is defined as the act of stealing or

passing off the words or ideas of another as one’s own without crediting the original source (Merriam-Webster), and is in

direct violation of our core value of honesty. Plagiarism can be intentional or unintentional, and teachers work with

students to understand plagiarism and citations during their time at Immaculate Conception. Intentional plagiarism or

cheating can be defined as the following:

Copying a friend/classmate’s work

Sharing your work with others

Asking for or giving answers from student work or assessments

Buying or borrowing papers

Cutting and pasting blocks of text from electronic sources without documenting

Media “borrowing” without documentation

Web publishing without permission of creators

Lack of a Works Cited Page (determination made by the teacher)

Unintentional Plagiarism can be defined as the following:

Careless paraphrasing

Poor documentation

Quoting excessively

Failure to use your own “voice”

If a teacher suspects a student of plagiarism, a determination will be made as to whether the incident is intentional or

unintentional. Once this determination has been made, consequences for intentional plagiarism may include one or more

of the following:

“0” on the assignment

Parent notification

Suspension or dismissal from school activities – sports and other co-curricular

Note on official student record

Loss of privileges within the school community

In-school or out-of-school suspension

Multiple incidents may result in expulsion

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Unintentional plagiarism will be handled by the teacher.

Core Values of Immaculate Conception

At Immaculate Conception, students are expected to:

Show Integrity

Use a Christ-like attitude

Be Consistently prepared

Always Strive for excellence

Students show integrity when they are honest and well behaved.

Students use a Christ-like attitude when they show respect to everyone and everything.

Student are consistently prepared when they follow all classroom procedures and have their assignments and supplies

ready.

Students always strive for excellence when they have an “I CAN” attitude and always give 110%.

DUE PROCESS AND RIGHT OF APPEAL 5120 POLICY: Students and/or their parents have the right of appeal in those cases where disciplinary action may result

in suspension or expulsion. See Appendix IV.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

If parents feel that the consequences appear not to be fair, they must request a meeting with the principal. A meeting does

not need to be formal in nature. It is simply a time for concerned individuals to meet together and share information

related to the situation in question. In the event that this discussion provides additional information that sheds different

light on the situation, or shows the consequences to be unfair, the consequences may be changed or eliminated to better fit

the unique situation.

DRESS CODE 5130 POLICY: Students are expected to be dressed in a manner consistent with accepted Catholic moral standards of good

taste and decency, and in keeping with the school’s uniform/dress code.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

All students attending Immaculate Conception Catholic School will be required to wear the school uniform. The uniform

policy will be strictly enforced. Repeated failure by the student to adhere to the school’s uniform policy will result in

disciplinary consequences.

PE Uniform for ALL Students is Mandatory: Gray t-shirt with school logo and navy blue athletic shorts or

sweatpants. Tennis shoes must be worn on PE day (Thursday).

Boys (Causal/Daily) Grades Pre-K through 8th (Monday, Tuesday, Friday)

Pants: Khaki pants (no denim, no cargo pants/pockets, rivets, logos or other accessories)

Shirt: Navy blue polo with school logo.

Socks: Dark colored dress socks or white socks.

Shoes: Brown dress shoes (includes brown or tan bucks and brown boat shoes) or tennis shoes. All students are to wear

tennis shoes to school on PE day-Thursday.

Shorts: Khaki shorts of knee length (top of knee cap). No cargo shorts/pockets, rivets, logos or other accessories.

Belts: Black or brown belts must be worn with pants and shorts.

Outer Garments: School sweater, sweater vest, or jacket all with school logo.

Boys (Mass- Every Wednesday) Grades Pre-K through 8th

Pants: Khaki pants (no denim, no cargo pants/pockets, rivets, logos or other accessories) NO SHORTS.

Shirt: White oxford button down shirt short or long sleeved.

Tie: School plaid ties only.

Socks: Dark colored dress socks with pants.

Shoes: Brown dress shoes (includes brown or tan bucks and brown boat shoes).

Belts: Black or brown belts must be worn with pants.

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Outer Garments: School sweater, sweater vest, or jacket all with school logo.

Girls (Casual/Daily) Grades Pre-K though 8th (Monday, Tuesday, Friday)

Pants: Khaki pants (no denim, no cargo pants/pockets, rivets, logos or other accessories)

Shirt: Navy blue polo with school logo or white Peter Pan shirt with undershirt beneath it.

Jumper (Pre-K through 8th): School plaid jumper with white Peter Pan shirt underneath.

Skirt and Blouse: School plaid skirt with white Peter Pan shirt. An undershirt must be worn beneath the white shirt when

it is worn with the skirt.

Socks: Dark colored dress socks, navy or white tights, or white socks.

Shoes: Brown dress shoes (includes brown or tan bucks and brown boat shoes), black or navy Mary Janes, tennis shoes.

All students are to wear tennis shoes to school on PE day-Thursday.

Shorts: Khaki shorts of knee length (top of knee cap). No cargo shorts/pockets, rivets, logos or other accessories.

Belts: Black or brown belts must be worn with pants and shorts.

Outer Garments: School sweater, sweater vest, or jacket all with school logo.

Girls (Mass- Every Wednesday) Grades Pre-K through 8th

Jumper (Pre-K through 8th): School plaid jumper with white Peter Pan shirt underneath.

Skirt and Blouse: School plaid skirt with white Peter Pan shirt. An undershirt must be worn beneath the white shirt when

it is worn with the skirt.

Socks: Dark colored dress socks with jumper/skirt.

Shoes: Brown dress shoes (includes brown or tan bucks and brown boat shoes), black or navy Mary Janes.

Outer Garments: School sweater, sweater vest, or jacket all with school logo.

Dress Code Miscellaneous

Hair: Boys: Must be kept neat, cut short, and clean at all times. No razor cuts, Mohawks , hair braiding, rat tails,

or other hair designs. No artificially colored hair will be accepted. Girls: Only girls are allowed to wear hair

beads, and they must be black, navy, or clear. Hair beads cannot cause distraction or noise. Girls may also wear

hair bows or bands that are school colors. Girls’ hair must also be kept neat and clean at all times. No artificially

colored hair will be accepted.

Jewelry Boys: Male students are not permitted to wear earrings or other non-religious jewelry to school.

Jewelry Girls: Female students my wear small earrings and religious jewelry to school.

Piercings: Body piercings (other than ears) and tattoos are not permitted to be worn while at school.

Shirts: Must be tucked in at all times.

No Hats

No Make-up other than nail polish for female students

No Pocketbooks

No non-uniform jackets, sweaters, or coats (those without school logo) will be permitted to be worn inside

the school building or in church. On cold days, students may wear overcoats when outside the building.

Please make sure to have a school sweater or vest at the school, as classrooms tend to be cooler than usual

year round.

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EVALUATION 6170 POLICY: Each teacher shall provide ongoing evaluation of the student’s educational progress and

communicate progress to parents. Elementary and secondary schools shall use report cards approved by

the Catholic Schools Office.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Grading The following grading scale will be used for all grades and subjects in grades 3-8:

A=94-100

B=86-93

C=76-85

D=70-75

F=Below 70

The following grading scale will be used for all grades and subjects in grades Pre-K:

4: Exceeds the Standard

3: Meets the Standard

2: Progressing Toward the Standard

1: Little to No Progress Toward the Standard

Report Cards and Progress Reports Report cards are issued four times per year at nine-week intervals (see school calendar). At the mid-point

of each grading period, progress reports will be issued for all students. Students in grades Pre-K through

2nd receive standards based report cards. Student in grades 3-8 receive traditional report cards.

If your child’s report card or progress report indicates a problem, the teacher usually tries to set up a

parent conference. If this has been done, or if you have any questions concerning your child’s grades, you

should call the school to schedule a conference.

The final report card will be sent home on the last day of school. No report card or school record may

be released until all fines and charges are paid.

FEES 5030 POLICY: Each school in the Diocese will have its own particular regulations regarding placement,

parish involvement, and payment of tuition and fees. These regulations shall be on file in the Catholic

Schools Office, and adhered to for all applicants.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

The following are fees that may be assessed to students’ accounts at Immaculate Conception Catholic

School. Per school policy, all accounts must be kept current. Tuition/fees not paid in full by the end of

the month will result in forfeiture of all prior paid fees and disenrollment from the school. All

fees/registration payments/tuition payments/money paid to the school are non-refundable. Please

note that by signing the tuition contract, you are contractually liable for the entire tuition payment

for the school year.

Registration: $500 per child

Background Check Fee for Volunteers: $10.00

Credit Card Payment Fee: 5% of transaction

Late Tuition Fee: $50.00 per month

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Insufficient Funds: $50.00 per incidence

Academic Placement Testing: $50.00 per student

After care: $25.00 Registration per student

Club Fee: Varies depending on the individual club

Records Copy Fee: $25.00 per request

Any other fees that may occur not mentioned above

FIELD TRIPS 6150 POLICY: A field trip is an educational opportunity whereby students leave school property under the

direction, guidance and/or authority of the school, or authorized school representative. Field trips are

recognized as useful in contributing to and enhancing students’ practical understanding of academic

subjects. The purpose, organization and implementation of field trips must follow regulations established

by the Catholic Schools Office.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Various field trips may be taken during the year. Parent or guardian permission slips must be signed in

advance. The cost of the field trips will vary depending upon the number of students going, length of the

field trip, and admission charges (if any). There are some items that are not allowed on school field trips

for safety, health, or security reasons. Students are expected to comply with these requirements if they are

to go on field trips. Parents may sometimes be needed as chaperones; however,

preschoolers/toddlers/babies are not allowed to accompany parents who go on field trips. All chaperones

must be VIRTUS certified. Parent drivers are required to make a copy of their current liability insurance

card and driver’s license in the office prior to driving on field trips.

FORGOTTEN ITEMS If you suddenly realize you have to bring items to the school that your child has forgotten, please bring

them to the front office, and we will make sure all items get to your child promptly. Students who forget

something in their classroom will only be able to go back to get the item if the teacher is present.

FUNDRAISING AND SOLICITATION At Immaculate Conception Catholic School tuition rates are kept purposefully lower than average in order

to make sure that those who desire a Catholic education have the opportunity to receive one. Many

people do not realize that our tuition rates do not cover the total cost of educating each pupil. The cost to

educate one general education student at ICCS is about $15,000. This cost to educate includes, but is not

limited to, paying school employees’ salaries, paying student insurance, paying building insurance,

paying staff medical insurance, buying textbooks and student supplies, replacing equipment, maintaining

the building and grounds, paying for all student computer licenses, and paying for all utilities.

If you have suggestions for fundraisers, please contact the principal to share your ideas. Money may not

be collected nor products sold anywhere on school grounds for fundraising or other purposes without the

Principal’s expressed permission. All monies collected must be counted and receipted for the school.

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GRADUATION 5250 POLICY: Students graduating from Diocesan elementary and secondary schools will receive the

official diploma issued by the Catholic Schools Office.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Students graduating from Immaculate Conception Catholic School will receive a diploma. All accounts

must be paid in full at least 2 weeks prior to graduation in order for students to be able to graduate.

HEALTH & SICKNESS 5200 POLICY: All students are to submit to physical examination and other health requirements prescribed

by the State of Georgia and the Diocese of Savannah.

5210 POLICY: In the instance of communicable disease, advice of the local Health Department must be

followed.

Any accident or illness is to be brought to the attention of the principal as quickly as possible.

If the situation warrants, the parent or guardian is notified. If no one can be reached, the principal

is responsible for taking the necessary action in the situation.

A student who is ill will be released from school in the custody of their parent/guardian. Students

will be released only if there is assurance that someone will be in the home to care for them.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Student emergency sheets will be distributed at the beginning of the year or at registration. The

information will be used in the event a student becomes ill, is involved in an accident, or the school needs

to reach the parents or emergency contacts for the family. It is very important that this information be

accurate and kept up to date. Please immediately notify the main office and the teacher of any change.

A parent/guardian must be notified if a child has an elevated temperature 100.0 degrees or higher. The

child must be picked up from school. If a child’s temperature is 103 degrees or higher and a

parent/guardian or responsible person cannot be reached and the child needs immediate care, the school

will call 911 for emergency care. Children who are sent home from school with a fever or for

vomiting may not return the next day. The child must be fever free and vomit free for a complete 24

hours before returning to school. Communicable diseases are diseases such as pink eye, ringworm, and

normal childhood diseases such as chicken pox. It is very important that parents notify the school of any

communicable disease at the earliest possible date. For health reasons, students should not return to

school after an illness unless sufficiently recovered to participate in their regular school program as

advised by your family physician. Please advise your child’s teacher of any health related concerns you

may have. We will need to develop an individual “Health Care Plan” should your child’s situation be

particularly critical.

The main reasons for keeping your child home are:

1) If they are too sick to be comfortable in school.

2) If they might spread a contagious disease to other children.

A child should stay at home who has a fever of 100.0 degrees or greater, vomiting more than once,

diarrhea, a very frequent cough, persistent pain (ear, stomach, etc.) or wide-spread rash. Most of these

problems need to be discussed with your child’s health care provider to determine if an office visit is

needed. Keep in mind that hand washing is the single most important thing you can do. Please teach your

child to do this to help prevent the spread of infections. Remember to always make sure that our school

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knows how to reach you during the day and that there is a back-up plan and emergency contact persons

on file if the school cannot reach you.

Immunization: The State of Georgia Immunization Law, H.B.427, requires an adequate Certificate of

Immunization Form 3231 (Rev. 03-2007), and a Certificate of Eye, Ear and Dental Examination, Form

3300, be on file for every student enrolled. If your child has not been previously enrolled in a Georgia

school, a 30-day grace period is given for presenting these certificates. All Pre-K, Kindergarten, First and

Second Grade students must also present a Birth Certificate along with the above certificates.

HOMEWORK 6160 POLICY: Homework is an essential part of a complete educational program. It provides a

meaningful opportunity to supplement and reinforce the school curriculum. Homework may require both

dependent and independent effort by the student. The curriculum shall provide for appropriate

homework.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE: Homework can be an effective instructional technique as it has positive effects on a student’s learning and

work habits. It also serves as a vital link between the school and the family. Homework shall not be

assigned as a means of punishment. Lack of homework will not be the sole factor to cause failure.

If homework is to be effective, the purposes should be clearly defined. The general purposes of

homework are:

A. to promote responsibility, self-direction, and independent work habits.

B. to reinforce skills and information learned in class.

C. to enrich and extend school research experiences.

D. to bring students in contact with out-of-school learning experiences.

E. to prepare students for upcoming class topics.

F. to aid in evaluating progress.

Students will have homework every night Monday through Thursday. Weekend homework is limited, but

may be assigned if necessary. The average duration of assignments for the average student should not

exceed the following per night:

Kindergarten 20 minutes

First Grade 30 minutes

Second Grade 45 minutes

Third Grade 50 minutes

Fourth Grade 60 minutes

Fifth through Eighth 90 minutes

INAPPROPRIATE ITEMS 5080 POLICY: A student may not carry, consume or have in his/her possession on the school grounds,

before, during, or after school hours, any drugs or alcohol, including but not limited to, over the counter

medication, prescription medicines, illegal substances, tobacco or federally controlled contraband.

Refusing to abide by this regulation makes a student liable for suspension or expulsion. Failure to abide by

this regulation makes a student liable for expulsion. Trafficking of drugs on school premises requires the

school authorities to inform the police.5090 POLICY: A student may not bring to school or have in his/her

possession on the school grounds, before, during, or after school hours, any weapon or instrument that

might be used as a weapon to inflict serious harm on oneself or on another person.

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SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Tobacco: The use or possession of tobacco in any form is prohibited in the school building and on school

property.

Substance Abuse: It is the goal of Immaculate Conception Catholic School to provide an environment

that is free from all substance abuse. Immaculate Conception Catholic School works to educate students

and families on tobacco, alcohol and drug abuse awareness. Substance abuse in American society is a

significant problem. Immaculate Conception Catholic School strongly supports preventive education--

which begins at home and is reinforced at school. Immaculate Conception Catholic School considers the

use, distribution, or sale of tobacco, drugs, alcohol or any other legally controlled substance on campus, at

school functions, or at a time and place involving Immaculate Conception Catholic School as a very

serious offense and may result in dismissal. If an Immaculate Conception Catholic School student is

involved, the Principal will:

contact parent(s)/guardian,

suspend the student,

conduct an investigation and determine further disciplinary actions and support which may range

from probation to suspension or dismissal.

Weapons: No student or non-student, including adults and visitors, shall possess, use or distribute a

weapon when in a school location. Immaculate Conception Catholic School will act to enforce this policy

and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school employee,

volunteer, or member of the public who violates this policy.

INTERNET PERMISSION All students in Pre-K – 8 must have written parental consent to access the Internet.

Should you decide that you do not want your child to access the Internet at school, you will have to notify

the school and that notice will be placed in the permanent record.

The universal nature of the Internet makes it necessary to use care when identifying students on individual

school and system websites. Unless a parent objects in writing to the principal the Immaculate Conception

Catholic School may periodically acknowledge student work, activities, and/or achievements on its

website. Such information about your child will be limited to photographs, student’s first name, school,

grade level, and/or student work.

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT The administration of Immaculate Conception Catholic School reserves the right to contact local law

enforcement at any time to maintain the safety and security of the school and its students.

LUNCH Immaculate Conception Catholic School partners with a local chef and restaurateur, Sandi Watkins, to

provide a nutritious, well-balanced, hot lunch on Monday through Thursday each week. All meals

must be pre-purchased before the 1st of each month. We will not be able accommodate orders placed

after the deadline each month. There are no refunds or credits for meals purchased through Sandi

Watkins. Students will need to bring a lunch from home on Fridays or purchase a pizza lunch from

the school. Students will not be able to use the microwave this year due to safety reasons. Please make

sure that lunches brought from home do NOT have to be heated.

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MEDIA CENTER 6210 POLICY: Media centers in elementary and secondary schools shall conform to accreditation

standards for media centers.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The Immaculate Conception Media Center serves the school by providing

services and materials that provide information, enrich the curriculum, and promote a lifetime passion for

reading for information and enjoyment. Students have access to a wide variety of magazines, reference

materials, picture books, fiction and non-fiction, representing various tastes, points of view, and reading

levels. Materials are selected using respected selection sources on the basis of favorable reviews by

today’s educational experts, and by teacher recommendations.

Care of media center books and materials is, of course, expected. Students are responsible for books

checked out of the Media Center. Just as with textbooks, students must pay a repair fee for damaged

books or the replacement cost of a lost book. Since our school Media Center must supply books for ages

4-15 with a wide variety of reading and maturity levels and interests, not every book may be appropriate

for every child. If your child ever checks out a book that you as the parent do not feel is appropriate for

him/her, simply have your child return it and choose something else.

If you give permission for your child to check out books from the Richmond County Public Library,

please note that any lost or damaged books checked out by your child will be the responsibility of the

parents.

MEDICATION 5070 POLICY: Medications, including over the counter, may be dispensed at school with written

permission from the parent or guardian.

School Procedure:

The school must be aware of any medical problems a student may have and/or any special medication the

student may be taking. Parents are required to so inform the administration. Such information will be

kept on the student’s general health record and will be kept in confidence. If the nature of the problem

dictates, however, the student’s classroom teachers will be so informed by the principal. If a student

becomes ill at school, the school will first call the parents. If the parents are not available, those persons

listed on the Emergency Information Sheet will be called. If the illness, accident, injury or other medical

emergency is determined to be serious, the doctor listed on the Emergency Information Card will be

notified. The student may be taken by the administration or EMS personnel to an appropriate hospital’s

Emergency Room. The parent will be notified as soon as possible.

If a child requires medication (prescription or nonprescription) the following procedures will be followed:

1. All medications must be kept in the nurse’s office and administered by school employees

only.

2. A Request to Administer Medication form must be on file in the nurse’s office. A form may

be picked up in the nurse’s office or sent home with a student upon request by the parent.

3. Medication must be given immediately to the teacher or brought directly to the nurse’s office.

It must be in the original container appropriately labeled, stating the student’s name,

and the physician’s name. All medication must be picked up by the parent. It cannot be sent

home with the student.

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NEWSLETTER A school newsletter and monthly calendar of events will be sent home electronically at the beginning of

each month. Please make sure that the school has a valid and current email address on file, so that you do

not miss receiving these important home/school communications.

NOTES

Permission plays an important role in the lives of children. Freedom is necessary to independent living,

but freedom encompasses restrictions and responsibilities. Therefore, notes are required from parents in

the following situations:

1. After every absence

2. In case of tardiness

3. To request early or special dismissal

4. To excuse a child from P.E.

5. In answer to messages sent to the parent

6. To allow a child to go on a field trip

7. To explain an emergency when a child comes out of uniform

PARENT and STUDENT RESPONSIBLITY

RESPONSIBILITY: PARENT AND STUDENT

The Parent

1. Parents have the God given natural right to educate their children. “Since parents have conferred

life on their children, they have a most solemn obligation to educate their offspring. Hence parents

must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children. Their role as educators

is so decisive that scarcely anything can compensate for their failure. For it devolves on parents to

create a family atmosphere so animated with love and reverence for God and man that a well

rounded personal and social development will be fostered among the children.” (Vatican II,

“Declaration of Christian Education”).

(1) Divorced parents must file the custody section of the divorce decree with the child’s

records.

(2) Non-custodial parents do have access to their children, school information, report cards,

etc., unless the school has paperwork from the court restricting a parent’s access to his/her

child.

2. The Vatican II Council further stresses that parents should support and cooperate with the Catholic

schools whenever and wherever possible. Verbal abuse or harassment of any school employee,

on or off school property, will not be tolerated. Parents are required to be calm and

professional at all times when at the school. Failure of parents to cooperate with this

regulation is grounds for a student’s dismissal from school. (1) 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

acknowledgment of authority are essential for Christian citizenship.

(2) Parents should train their children in community worship through family prayer, family

participation in the Eucharistic celebration of the parish and reception of the sacraments.

(3) Parents should participate in the building of the community and service of their parish and

town.

(4) Parents should undertake continuing education that will help them understand the approach,

content, and methods of contemporary religious education.

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3. The school expects that all parents and students will...

(1) Fully accept that Immaculate Conception Catholic School teaches about the Catholic faith,

morality, and the teachings of the Catholic Church in its entirety, and that students, staff, and

families are expected to fully embrace and practice these beliefs and principles while

participating in the daily life of the school.

(2) See that students are present in the classroom on time.NOTES ARE REQUIRED IF

TARDY.

(3) Call the school office by 9:00 AM if their child will be absent.NOTES ARE REQUIRED

IF ABSENT. (4) Send their child to school physically fit by taking care that he or she has sufficient sleep, is

healthy, clean, and properly dressed, and is provided with a well-balanced diet.

(5) Assist the child in his or her development by cooperating with the school’s scholastic

program, by participating in parent/teacher conferences, which shall occasionally include

the child, by discussing the “ICCS Newswletter” updates 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.

(6) 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.

(7) Instill in the child a respect for authority so that the instruction will be obeyed promptly and

cheerfully. Children should be taught to look upon all teachers and school staff members

as representatives of their parents.

(8) See that reading materials brought from home reflect Catholic moral principles and respect

for authority.

(9) Take a responsible attitude toward the material support and care of the school.

(10) RETURN SIGNED FORMS TO THE OFFICE BY THE END OF THE FIRST FULL

WEEK OF SCHOOL.

(11) Take an active role in the school through volunteer service for the enrichment and

betterment of the school.

(12) Avoid checking students out except for absolute necessities, i.e. – medical appointments.

Checking students out for lunch is not allowed.

4. The out-of-school activities of pupils are primarily the responsibility of the parents. Parental

supervision (legal guardian) is required at out-of-school activities, especially sports activities. Only

exception – team members & cheerleaders. STUDENT SPECTATORS AT GAMES MUST

HAVE AN ADULT WITH THEM. However, these activities are the concern of school

authorities inasmuch as they affect the work and attitudes of students. School faculties and parents

of students should strive for cooperation regarding social and recreational activities. Only those

students participating in Immaculate Conception Catholic School related sports/activities and those

in our After School program have permission to change out of their uniforms. Regular dismissal

procedures must be adhered to unless the student is an athlete.

5. Failure of parents to cooperate with school regulations is grounds for a student’s dismissal from

school.

The Student

The student is in school to learn, to be formed and informed, to grow in faith, hope, and love. Their

intellectual faculties shall be developed in school and their spiritual life shall be strengthened. Children

who attend Catholic school shall be recognized by their courtesy. This includes, but is not limited to

greeting visitors with ease, making introductions properly, the use of good manners, proper respect for

faculty and staff at all times, deference to other people and thoughtful consideration for

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PARENT VOLUNTEERS We welcome parents who wish to volunteer to help in our school. If you would like to take advantage of

this unique opportunity to be of service, please contact the principal or your child’s teacher. Please

remember that all adults, even parent volunteers, must first report to the office prior to going to a

classroom. All volunteers must have received parent volunteer training including child abuse

VIRTUS training and a criminal background check prior to volunteering in the school. Only

trained parent volunteers are allowed in classrooms. This is a mandatory requirement of the Diocese

of Savannah. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. VIRTUS is a free training offered through the

Diocese of Savannah. Volunteer background checks will be charged a $10 processing fee due at time of

application.

PARTIES & STUDENT BIRTHDAYS The school will have classroom parties to celebrate the following Catholic Holidays: All Saints Day 11/1,

Christmas 12/21, Valentine’s Day 2/14, and Easter 4/13. It is imperative that instructional time is

protected. Birthday Celebrations: Invitations brought to school must be distributed to the entire class or

all girls/boys. These guidelines must be followed or invitations will be returned. If you wish to send small

birthday treats for each student, please receive prior approval from the teacher. Birthday treats will be

passed out at lunch time and must be packaged individually for ease of distribution. Balloons and

flowers sent to the student cannot be accepted. We request your support in all these matters in order to

prevent any child from being excluded.

PLACEMENT 5050 POLICY: The principal, after consultation with the parents and teacher(s), will be responsible for

making the final decision on the placement of a student.

The secondary school (High Schools) will develop and publish written policies and regulations for student

placement, course credits, and graduation requirements. Students and parents should be made aware of

and understand both policy and regulations.

SCHOOL PROCEDURES:

Students will be placed in the proper grade according to their age. All new students in grades 1st -8th must

take an entrance exam to help determine placement. The fee for the entrance exam is $50. Any parent

requesting a placement other than prescribed herein must present that request to the principal in writing,

within 10 days of the first day of enrollment. The principal will evaluate the request using all available

information and make the final decision regarding placement.

PRESCHOOL The preschool program at Immaculate Conception Catholic School is not licensed by Bright from the

Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. Furthermore, the program at Immaculate

Conception Catholic School is not required to be licensed by the state of Georgia. The preschool program

at Immaculate Conception Catholic School is monitored and directed by the Catholic Schools Office of

the Diocese of Savannah.

PROMOTION/RETENTION 6130 POLICY:

A student shall be considered for promotion if the following standards are met:

Kindergarten (1) Mastery of reading readiness skills and math skills.

(2) Regular attendance/less than 16 absences.

Lower (1) Mastery of reading and math skills at the assigned grade level.

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(2) Regular attendance/less than 16 absences.

Upper (1) A passing final grade in Reading and Math.

(2) Regular attendance/less than 16 absences.

A student may be retained once in kindergarten through third grade and once in fourth through eighth

grade.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

A student will be considered for promotion only if the following standards are met:

1. Mastery of reading readiness skills and math skills for kindergarten. No more than 16 absences

for the year.

2. Mastery of reading and math skills as evidenced by passing final grades at the assigned grade

level for grades 1-8. No more than 16 absences for the year.

A student may be retained once in kindergarten through third grade and once in fourth through

eighth grade.

PUPIL RECORDS 5150 POLICY: Student records are confidential and will be open only to members of the professional staff,

custodial parent or guardian, or to the student upon request.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

All pupil cumulative records will be kept in the office. Parents may request to see their child’s records

through an appointment with the Principal. Parents requesting copies of student records must have their

tuition paid in full for the school year and must pay a $25 Records Copy Fee. Records copy requests

typically take 5-7 business days to complete.

REGISTRATION 5030 POLICY: Each school in the Diocese will have its own particular regulations regarding placement,

parish involvement, and payment of tuition and fees. These regulations shall be on file in the Catholic

Schools Office, and adhered to for all applicants.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Parents need to bring the completed Georgia three-point screening form 3300 (eye, ear, dental), the

Georgia Immunization form 3231, social security card, and birth certificate The last report card and name

and address of the previous school are essential. Students entering grades Pre-K-8 will be required to take

an entrance test. A fee for this assessment of $50 is required. Upon review of all records and/or interview

with past school officials, the principal will make the final determination for admission.

Preschool Registration: Children are eligible for enrollment in our preschool program if they have

reached their third or fourth birthdays by September 1st. Preschool students must be potty trained before

starting in our program.

Kindergarten Registration: Children are eligible for enrollment in Kindergarten

if they have reached their fifth birthday by September 1st.

First Grade Registration: Children are eligible for enrollment in First Grade if

they have reached their sixth birthday by September 1st.

REGISTRATION AND FEES

(NON-REFUNDABLE)

$500.00 REGISTRATION- ALL GRADES

$50.00 ENTRANCE ASSESSMENT-Pre-K-8TH GRADES and SPED

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Each student will only receive one discount off of his/her tuition rate. The school will always apply the

higher discount. Discounts available include: multi-child discounts, lock-in discounts, and military

discounts.

Catholic Rate: Families wishing to qualify for the Catholic tuition rate, must obtain a letter from their

pastor that states that either the parents and/or the child is an active parishioner at the parish. Letters must

be submitted to the school before the Catholic rate can be applied. Upon registering, families have two

weeks to get the letter to the school.

The steps for registering at Immaculate Conception Catholic School are as follows:

New Families:

1. Contact the school to set up an appointment to meet with the principal. Make sure to bring all prior

report cards, IEPs, and testing information to this meeting.

2. Set up a follow-up appointment to have the student(s) complete the entrance assessment. The cost

of the assessment is $50 per child. The assessment usually takes an hour.

3. After testing, a determination will be made as to which program best suits the academic needs of

the student(s).

4. Complete the application for enrollment, pay the $500 registration fee per child, sign the tuition

contract, and complete the payment plan options form.

Returning Families: 5. Complete the application for re-enrollment. Pay the $500 registration fee, sign the tuition

contract, and complete the payment options form.

RELIGIOUS AND PATRIOTIC OBSERVANCE 5260 POLICY: School personnel in the diocesan schools are urged to recognize in their programs those

religious and patriotic/civic observances regarded as significant by the Church and the local community.

The flag of the United States of America should be displayed within and outside the school building.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE: The flag of the United States is on display outside of the school as well as in

each classroom. A crucifix and a statue of Mary are also on display in each classroom. Immaculate

Conception Catholic School emphasizes Catholic not secular observances.

Sacramental Program The sacramental program at Immaculate Conception Catholic School is part of the total parish program

and requires parent participation. The grade for sacrament reception is First Reconciliation & First

Communion-Grade 2. Students must be a baptized Catholic in order to receive first reconciliation

and first communion. A copy of the baptismal certificate must be kept on file at the school.

Religious Activities

The religious formation of students and faculty involves more than the formal classes in Catholic

doctrine. Both are given opportunities to practice their faith. Students of other faiths are expected to

attend and participate in all religious activities that are held for the Immaculate Conception Catholic

School/Most Holy Trinity community. Among these activities are:

(1) Communal prayer three times daily.

(2) The celebration of the Eucharist by the entire Immaculate Conception Community every Wednesday

and on special, specified holiday days.

(3) Penance services during Advent and Lent.

(4) Numerous opportunities to serve the less fortunate members of the Augusta community.

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Parents are expected to fully accept that Immaculate Conception Catholic School will teach in its

entirety Catholic doctrine, Catholic morality, the Catholic Sacraments, Catholic precepts, and the

Catholic faith.

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT/VIRTUS 5230 POLICY: All teaching and support staff are required by state law to report any suspected child abuse

or neglect. The educator’s role is not to investigate or verify the situation but to report the suspected abuse,

setting in motion the process of getting help for the child.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

All faculty, staff, parents volunteering at the school, and other employees of the diocese, church, or school

will be required to undergo the following:

A criminal background check

VIRTUS child safety program

Any person who has reasonable suspicion that a child has been the victim of child abuse will immediately

make a report to the principal or pastor. The principal will evaluate the information available and make

reports to the proper authorities.

REQUESTS FOR REPORT CARD COPIES, TEST SCORES, MAGNET

SCHOOL RECOMMENDATIONS, SCHOOL RECORDS, OR OTHER

SCHOOL FORMS/INPUT Parents or guardians requesting any type of documentation or form to be filled out/copied/processed by

the school must give the school at least 7-10 days to complete the request. All forms and requests are to

be submitted to the front office, not individual teachers. No requests will be completed unless the tuition

owed to the school has been paid in its entirety for the year and the family’s account has a zero balance.

Records requests from other educational institutions for student records will not be processed by the

school, until the financial obligations outlined in the current tuition agreement and any additional

accumulated fees are paid in full by the family.

SCHOLARSHIPS/FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Immaculate Conception Catholic School accepts several outside scholarships including: AAA

Scholarship, Georgia Special Needs Scholarship, and Arete Scholarship.

In addition, the school may award families showing documented financial need GRACE Scholarships,

Diocesan Scholarships, or Special Needs Scholarships. All families requesting financial assistance must

apply online at: https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/3SPDW

Families awarded scholarships/financial assistance must maintain good attendance, and keep their

financial accounts with the school current. Families awarded scholarships must understand that students

will lose their scholarship/financial assistance if they are withdrawn from the school for any reason before

the end of the school year, and that families will then be responsible for paying to the school the entire

contracted tuition amount.

SCHOOL HOURS 6020 POLICY: The length of the school day should be set in such a manner that is not less than state and/or

accrediting agency requirements and shall be set to meet all curriculum needs.

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SCHOOL PROCEDURE: School hours are from 8:15 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Students will be allowed to enter the building beginning

at 7:30am each morning without charge and at 7:00am as part of before care. Students should be dropped

off no later than 8:15am in order to be in their classrooms on time. When a child comes to school late

(after the 8:15am bell), a parent must sign the child in at the office.

Picture identification will be required of all adults signing children out early.

Students not picked up by 3:30p.m.will be placed in afterschool and a fee will be charged to the

family.

SCHOOL SPONSORED CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 6200 POLICY: Co-curricular activities afford students the opportunity to develop interests, to enhance

socialization and to provide activities for enrichment. Where feasible, a variety of co-curricular activities,

suitable to the age and needs of the students, will be offered.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Immaculate Conception hosts a variety of clubs for students to participate in during the school year. Clubs

run on a six week cycle. Information regarding clubs will be sent home as it becomes available.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE 5170 POLICY: Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Savannah will comply with the Family Educational

Rights and Privacy Act, Final Rule on Educational Records, Public Law 93-308 as modified by SB 105,

Article 5, Privacy of Pupil Records, which reads:

Police Officers, upon the authority of a search warrant, may make a search of that part of the school

premises described in the search warrant, and school officials should cooperate in performing such a

service.

Every effort shall be made to conduct searches in a manner that will minimize a disruption of the normal

school routine, and minimize embarrassment to the pupil(s) affected.

School officials may at any time conduct such searches as are essential to the safety, health, and well being

of the students, and to secure discipline and sound administration of the particular school.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

All lockers/desks, which are provided for the student’s use, are the property of the school and may be

searched without the user’s consent if there is reasonable cause to do so. Conversely, however, neither a

student’s person nor his/her personal property, i.e. purse, book bag, etc. may be legally searched. If there

is reasonable cause to suspect the need for such a search, the student will be asked to make the contents of

his/her personal property known by emptying same in the presence of administration. Should the student

refuse to do so, the parents will be contacted for support. If the latter refuse to cooperate in this “search,”

the student will be required to withdraw from school and/or law enforcement will be called.

STUDENT RELEASE DURING SCHOOL DAY Immaculate Conception shall not release students to individuals other than custodial parent(s)/guardian(s)

without written permission except in emergency situations whereby the Principal at his/her discretion may

release the student upon verbal request of the custodial parent. It is the responsibility of the custodial

parent(s)/guardian(s) to notify the school when their child will be picked up by anyone other than those

on file in the child’s record. Anyone signing out a student must present picture identification. This

requirement is necessary for the safety of our students. Students cannot be checked out of classrooms

until the person checking them out arrives on campus.

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TEXTBOOKS/LIBRARY BOOKS 6040 POLICY: Books and instructional materials for Religious Education and Sacramental programs

must be approved by the Diocese of Savannah. Instructional materials for other disciplines will be

selected by the individual school administrator(s). The selection shall be consistent with the philosophy

of instruction and in accordance with the regulations from the Catholic Schools Office.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Textbooks and instructional materials are chosen based on their relevance to our curriculum, input from

the faculty and approval from the Diocese of Savannah. Hardback textbooks are issued to each student by

the teachers, in the appropriate grade levels. At the end of the year the teacher will examine these, and if

at this time the student has so misused a book, he will be required to pay for it. Any time a book is lost,

the student must pay for it before another book may be issued to him. To ensure proper care of books,

each student is responsible for having books covered by the second week of school. Book bags are

required for all students. Textbooks (hard and soft cover) must be covered and kept in good condition.

DO NOT USE CONTACT PAPER ON HARD COVER BOOKS. Students are required to bring proper

books to each class.

TRANSPORTATION CHANGES When transportation arrangements are altered, please notify the office through a note. When

transportation changes are altered during the school day, parents must fax or email a written request to the

school along with a copy of a photo ID. Transportation changes should be requested prior to 2:45 p.m.

No student will be permitted to ride in a private vehicle without written consent of the student’s parent.

NO VERBAL PERMISSION for private transportation will be approved.

TUITION/FEES/PAYMENT 5030 POLICY: Each school in the Diocese will have its own particular regulations regarding placement,

parish involvement, and payment of tuition and fees. These regulations shall be on file in the Catholic

Schools Office, and adhered to for all applicants.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Tuition policies and rates are set annually by the School Advisory Board. Immaculate Conception Catholic

School offers three types of tuition rates: a Catholic rate, a Non-Catholic rate, and a special education rate.

Parents or legal guardians of ICCS students requesting the Catholic rate must provide the school with a

letter from their pastor on church letterhead that acknowledges their active parishioner status. Letters are

due to the school office within two weeks of registering at the school.

Tuition is due in its entirety on August 1st of each school year. The school, knowing that many families

cannot afford to pay the entire tuition amount up front, work with families to set up tuition payment plans.

Parents unable to pay the entire amount of tuition on or by August 1st may choose to make 10 equal

payments from August 1st until May 1st. Tuition/Fees must be paid by the 1st day of each month from

August to May. A late charge of $50 will be assessed per student for payments not received by the 5th of

each month.

Payments still not received by the 15th of the month will result in a letter being sent by the school to the

parent(s) in an effort to rectify the nonpayment situation.

Tuition/fees not paid in full by the end of the month will result in forfeiture of all prior paid fees

and possible disenrollment from the school.

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Monthly tuition payments may be in the form of cash, check, certified bank check, automatic bank

draft, credit card, or postal money order.

Any returned checks or non-sufficient payments will be assessed an additional $50 fee and will

result in all further monetary transactions for the family being in the form of a certified bank

check, postal money order, cash and/or credit card.

Parents must understand that as a requisite of enrollment, a tuition contract must be signed and kept on

file by the school. By signing the tuition contract parents understand that they are liable for the entire

tuition amount for the school year regardless of whether they attend the school for the entire school year.

By agreeing to pay tuition and fees to the school, parents also understand that Immaculate Conception

Catholic School will be entitled to recover from parents its reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in

enforcing the tuition agreement and all outstanding principal and interest then due and payable, in

accordance with O.C.G.A. § 13-1-11.

All tuition and fees paid to the school are nonrefundable.

VISITORS 6070 POLICY: Parents, guardians, agents, and others having legitimate business with the school shall be

informed to make appointments at a mutually convenient time so classes will not be interrupted.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE:

Parents and visitors are always welcome at Immaculate Conception Catholic School. We do ask all

parents, visitors, and guests to sign in at the office. Parents are welcome to eat lunch with their children.

However, they must remain in the cafeteria area. Parents are not allowed in classrooms during

instructional time unless they are volunteering at the request of the teacher. We do not allow unannounced

drop-in visits or classroom observations for both student safety and student confidentiality reasons.

Teacher and classroom observations are conducted by the administration of the school under the guidance

and approval of the superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Savannah. No one is allowed to visit

areas inside the school building without approval from the administration. Parents are not allowed in

hallways between 8:15 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. without permission from the office. This is very important so

that instructional time is protected, as well as for security reasons. We must make sure that all students are

safe while at school.

WALKERS We discourage students from walking to and from school because of traffic and safety. It is preferred that

all students ride in a car. Any issues concerning transportation and walking to school must be discussed

with the principal. Any student walking to/from school must have approval from the principal.

WITHDRAWAL Parents should notify their child’s teacher and the school office at least one day before the day of

withdrawal from Immaculate Conception Catholic School. Parents must understand that as a requisite of

enrollment, a tuition contract must be signed and kept on file by the school. By signing the tuition

contract parents understand that they are liable for the entire tuition amount for the school year regardless

of whether they attend the school for the entire school year. Withdrawing before the end of the school

year does not negate the Tuition Contract that was signed. Families who have students who are expelled

from the school due to grievous policy violations are still responsible for paying the entire tuition amount

for the year.

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PARENT- STUDENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I ____________________________, AS THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF THE

FOLLOWING IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS:

1.________________________________

2.________________________________

3.________________________________

4.________________________________

HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK ISSUED TO

ME AND MY CHILD.

FURTHERMORE, WE HEREBY AGREE TO ABIDE BY AND FOLLOW ALL THE

PROVISIONS, RULES, AND POLICIES OUTLINED WITH THE HANDBOOK.

WE UNDERSTAND THAT BY ATTENDING IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL

WE ARE EXPECTED TO FULLY ACCEPT THAT THE SCHOOL WILL TEACH IN ITS ENTIRETY

CATHOLIC DOCTORINE, CATHOLIC MORALITY, THE CATHOLIC SACRAMENTS, CATHOLIC

PRECEPTS, AND THE CATHOLIC FAITH.

LASTLY, WE AGREE THAT OUR ABOVE AGREEMENTS ARE A CONDITION FOR

ENROLLMENT AND THE FAILURE TO ABIDE BY THESE PROVISIONS MAY

JEOPARDIZE THE ENROLLMENT STATUS AND REQUIRE WITHDRAWAL FROM

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL.

STUDENT SIGNATURE:_______________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE:_______________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE:_______________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE:_______________________________

PARENT SIGNATURE:________________________________ DATE:___________________