Octavius V. Catto Family

Octavius V. Catto Family School 3100 Westfield Avenue, Camden, New Jersey 08105 • 856-966-4097 Fax: 856-966-4070

Mr. Byron R. Dixon, Principal Ms. Yolanda Babilonia, Lead Educator- Bilingual

Mission Statement “Our mission is to provide a safe and secure learning environment, rigorous instruction, cultural

awareness and individualized attention that exceeds our students’ needs.”

2018-2019

Parent & Student Handbook Manual de Padre e Estudiante

“Our Vision is to develop productive leaders by

providing a quality first class education.”

Octavius V. Catto Community Family School

3100 Westfield Avenue, Camden, New Jersey 08105 • 856-966-4097 Fax: 856-966-4070 Mr. Byron R. Dixon, Principal Ms. Yolanda Babilonia, Lead Educator- Bilingual

Mission Statement

“Our mission is to provide a safe and secure learning environment, rigorous instruction, cultural awareness and individualized attention that exceeds our students’ needs.”

2 “Our vision is to develop productive leaders by providing a quality first class education.”

Table of Contents

WELCOME LETTER ......................................................................................................................................... 5

SCHOOL MAILING ADDRESS .......................................................................................................................... 6

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS ............................................................................................................. 6

EMAIL ............................................................................................................................................................ 6

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT ..................................................................................................................... 7

STUDENT PLEDGE .......................................................................................................................................... 7

UNIFORM INFORMATION LETTER …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8

ARRIVAL ......................................................................................................................................................... 9

DISMISSAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 9

ONE SESSION DISMISSAL ............................................................................................................................ 10

DOCTOR AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS AND EARLY DISMISSAL ................................................................ 10

SCHOOL CLOSING ........................................................................................................................................ 10

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................... 11

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten ........................................................................................................ 11

In-District Transfers ................................................................................................................................. 11

CAMDEN CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ POLICIES ................................................................................................. 12

5114 SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION ....................................................................................................... 12

In-School Redirection Room ................................................................................................................... 13

General .................................................................................................................................................... 13

Making up Missed Work ......................................................................................................................... 14

Procedures .............................................................................................................................................. 14

Expulsion ............................................................................................................................................... 166

Implementation .................................................................................................................................... 177

File Code 5131.5 Vandalism/ Violence ................................................................................................... 17

File Code 5131.9 HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING .......................................................... 17

File Code 5132 Dress and Grooming ....................................................................................................... 18

PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES – APPROPRIATE DRESS MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL ................................ 189



Mission Statement



6154 Homework/Makeup Work ................................................................................................................. 19

FILE CODE 5145.12 SEARCH AND SEIZURE …………………………………………………………………………………………. 21

ACADEMICS ................................................................................................................................................. 22

Interim Reports ....................................................................................................................................... 22

Report Cards/Conferences ...................................................................................................................... 22

Grading Scale and Weights ..................................................................................................................... 22

Homework............................................................................................................................................... 22

Field Trips ................................................................................................................................................ 22

Special Services ....................................................................................................................................... 23

English as a Second Language ................................................................................................................. 23

SPECIAL AREA INSTRUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 23

Health and Physical Education ................................................................................................................ 23

Art Education .......................................................................................................................................... 23

Technological Literacy ............................................................................................................................. 23

Vocal and Instrumental Music ................................................................................................................ 23

Spanish Language .................................................................................................................................... 24

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES .................................................................................................................. 24

Boys and Girls Club ................................................................................................................................. 25

SCHOOL-WIDE TECHNOLOGY ..................................................................................................................... 26

Technology Enhanced Classrooms .......................................................................................................... 26

Internet/Network Access ........................................................................................................................ 26

SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT .................................................................................................................... 26

Parents and Visitors ................................................................................................................................ 26

School Climate ........................................................................................................................................ 26

Respect for School Property ................................................................................................................... 26

Electronic Devices/Toys .......................................................................................................................... 27

School Law Enforcement Officers ........................................................................................................... 27

Mission Statement of Security Personnel ................................................................................................... 28



Mission Statement



Fire Drills and School Safety Precautions .................................................................................................... 28

Care of Textbooks and Equipment .............................................................................................................. 28

PARKING INFORMATION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28

STUDENT SERVICES ..................................................................................................................................... 29

School Nurse ........................................................................................................................................... 29

Ms. Marianne Paoli: 856-966-4097 ex. 45014 ........................................................................................ 29

Guidance ................................................................................................................................................. 29

Child Study Team .................................................................................................................................... 30

Speech Therapy ....................................................................................................................................... 30

Speech Disorders and Language Disorders ............................................................................................. 31



Mission Statement



September 2018

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to Octavius V. Catto Family School for the 2018-2019 school year. The staff and I

are looking forward to you being a part of our school family. We need your full support and

participation.

Our mission at Catto is to provide a safe and secure learning environment, rigorous instruction,

cultural awareness and individualized attention that exceeds our students’ needs. Our vision is

to develop productive leaders by providing a quality first class education. To this end, we will

work to address learning barriers through a comprehensive and multifaceted educational

program.

As a Uniform District, it is essential that all students participate in our uniform program.

Detailed information about colors and styles of uniforms is included in this handbook. Failure

to comply with school and district policies will not be tolerated.

We look forward to an exciting 2018-2019 school year, working together to meet challenges that

will lead to our students’ academic achievement.

Sincerely,

Byron R. Dixon Mr. Byron R. Dixon

Principal



Mission Statement



SCHOOL MAILING ADDRESS


3100 Westfield Avenue

Camden, New Jersey 08105

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Main Office ................................ 856-966-4097

Fax ............................................... 856-966-4070

School Nurse ............................. 856-966-4097 Ext. 45014

Guidance .................................... 856-966-4097 Ext. 45011

Child Study Team .................... 856-966-4097 Ext. 45005

Parent Center ............................ 856-966-4097 Ext. 45021

EMAIL

Mr. Byron R. Dixon, Principal [email protected] Ms. Yolanda Babilonia, Lead Educator-Bilingual [email protected] Ms. Pamela Rossi, Manager of School Operations [email protected] Ms. Briana Smith-Gibbs, Family & Ops Coordinator [email protected] Ms. Elizabeth Rodriguez, Family & Ops Coordinator [email protected] Ms. Marilyn Fischer, School Clerk [email protected] Ms. Marianne Paoli, School Nurse [email protected] Ms. Karen McRae, Guidance Counselor [email protected] Mr. Nacovin Norman, Psychologist [email protected] Ms. Lourdes Soto, Speech Therapist [email protected] Ms. Michelle Holloway, Occupational Therapist [email protected]

Visit the Octavius V. Catto Community Family School’s website indicated below to locate additional staff

members’ email addresses.

SCHOOL WEBSITE: http://camdencitycatto.ss12.sharpschool.com

mailto:[email protected]






http://camdencitycatto.ss12.sharpschool.com/



Mission Statement



Octavius V. Catto Family School’s website is updated continuously. School news, upcoming

activities, staff email addresses and classroom teacher web pages with daily homework

assignments are accessible from the main school webpage.

SCHOOL VISION

Our vision is to develop productive leaders by providing a quality first class education.

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission each day is to provide a safe and secure learning environment, rigorous

instruction, cultural awareness and individualized attention that exceeds our students’

needs.

STUDENT PLEDGE

Catto students are dedicated to learning. We will study diligently, get outstanding grades,

be respectful of others, and be proud of who we are.

CALENDAR

It is imperative that you review the school district’s calendar and notes/ letters that are

sent home to keep you informed of events, activities and school closings on one-session

days.

The Camden City Public School Calendar is available on the school district website. The

calendar can be found at the website http://www.camden.k12.nj.us.com in the “Calendar”

tab.

http://www.camden.k12.nj.us.com/



Mission Statement



September 2018

Dear Parents and Students,

I trust you have enjoyed the beautiful summer and time off from school; however, it is time to

begin to prepare for the opening of school. In anticipation for the opening of school on September 6,

2018, we ask that you ensure that students report to school dressed appropriately, please adhere to

the following uniform combinations:

Uniform top (shirt, blouse): Solid Dark Blue / Solid White With Collar *Oversized tee shirts are not permitted. Shirts must be tucked in.

Uniform Bottom (pant, skirt, jumper, dress): Sweater/Cardigan:

Solid Khaki (Tan)/ Solid Navy Blue Navy (Logo optional) Belts must be worn in belt loops Navy Tie (optional) Absolutely NO Sagging Pants or pants with rips, tears, or holes!

Hot Weather: *Khaki or Navy Shorts, skirt, jumper, dress (no more than 2 inches above the knees) *Solid school color tops Prohibited clothing and accessories items:

Tank or halter tops, spaghetti straps, jeans Jelly or fabric slippers, slides or flip flops Hoodies cannot be worn during school hours Purses and backpacks are not allowed to be carried during school hours Cell Phones are to be turned off and safely stored away during school hours Large hoop earrings (hoops should not be larger than a fifty cent piece.) / Body piercing jewelry

Stores that carry uniforms: Uniform City located on Broadway and Pine, Camden, New Jersey (School Logo) Forman Mills, JC Penney, Sears and Walmart

All students are expected to be in uniform on a daily basis. Students not in uniform will incur a Tier 1 infraction for uniform violation. If you have any questions regarding the uniforms, please feel free to contact the school.

Sincerely,

Byron R. Dixon Principal

Physical Education Class: Changing for Phys. Ed. is

MANDATORY for Grades 6-8

(shorts/sweats, t-shirts,

sneakers)



Mission Statement



SCHOOL SCHEDULE

Student Breakfast served Monday- Friday in the cafeteria 7:50 AM -8:20 AM

All instructional faculty and staff report to work 8:20 AM

All instructional faculty and staff report to assigned duties 8:30 AM - 2:50 PM

Full day school hours for all Pre-K through grade 8 students 8:30 AM – 2:50 PM

One session day school hours for all Pre-K through grade 8 students 8:30 AM – 12:50 PM

Two-hour delayed opening for all Pre-K through grade 8 students 10:30 AM – 2:50 PM

ARRIVAL

Students should not arrive before 7:50 AM. Upon arrival before 8:30 AM, students will

be monitored by school administration and security officers until they are picked up by

classroom teachers. Students will line up in their designated area as indicated by signs in

the gymnasium or outside on the pillars near the main entrance. Teachers will pick up

students from designated areas, and escort all students to classrooms in an orderly fashion.

Students will eat breakfast in the cafeteria prior to teacher pick-up. Students who arrive

late will report to the main office. Once students have arrived on school grounds in the

morning, they are not permitted to leave.

Grades Pre-K – 5th: Report to Cafeteria upon arriving to school

Grades 6th – 8th: Report to Auditorium upon arrival to school

Parents are not permitted to escort students into the building. Staff members or a

student safety will escort students to their assigned areas upon arrival.

LATENESS: Students are considered late after 8:40 AM. Any student who arrives to

school after 10:00 AM WITHOUT A DOCTOR’S NOTE WILL NOT RECEIVE CREDIT FOR

THAT DAY!

DISMISSAL

All students will be dismissed at 2:50 PM unless prior arrangements have been made. It is

important that students be picked up promptly at dismissal. Students in Grades Pre-

K through First must be signed out in the cafeteria. Students in Grades 2 must be

signed out from the designated areas outside. To ensure a safe and orderly dismissal, all

other parents and guardians are asked to wait outside for students. Once students have

been dismissed, they are not permitted back into the building without permission of an

adult.



Mission Statement



If you do not want your child to walk home by him or herself, you must report to the school

on time to pick up your child. This DOES NOT apply to students in Grades Pre-K

through Second. THEY MUST BE SIGNED OUT.

If an emergency arises and you cannot pick up your child on time, you should ask one of the

contact persons on your child’s emergency list to pick up your child. IDENTIFICATION

WILL BE REQUIRED.

Due to the increased number of students being picked up late, we must take action to

eliminate this behavior. If your child is consistently picked up late, we will be forced to

contact DCF (Department of Children and Families) or the Camden City Police Department.

1st Offense: Note to parent

2nd Offense: Conference with principal/attendance team

3rd Offense: Call to DCF or the Police (This action is at the discretion of the school and may be enforced for any of the offenses.)

ONE SESSION DISMISSAL

Children must be picked up at the designated time on one-session days. Alert anyone who

may be taking care of your child after school. School personnel are scheduled for meetings

or training sessions, so they too need to leave promptly.

DOCTOR AND DENTAL APPOINTMENTS AND EARLY DISMISSAL

We encourage you to try to schedule your child’s doctor and dental appointments after

school hours. If this is not possible, you must submit a note twenty-four (24) hours in

advance stating the following: child’s name, teacher’s name, reason for early

dismissal, and date and time student is to be dismissed. If someone other than a family

member is going to pick up your child, please inform the school.

SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event of inclement weather or emergency closing, tune into KYW News Radio 1060

and/or local television stations. School closing number for Camden City Public Schools is

614.



Mission Statement



ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten

Upon initial enrollment in the district, each new student will present:

1. A birth certificate or similar proof of age

2. Record of acceptable immunization for DPT, Mumps, Polio, Measles and

Rubella. All children who received Measles Vaccine BEFORE their first birthday

must be vaccinated again before entering school. All children must have

immunizations completed before they are admitted to classes.

3. Evidence of residence or legal home in the district.

Potential Kindergarten residents must provide:

A. The child must be five (5) years old on or before October 1 of that school year

B. Proof of immunization against the communicable diseases at the time of enrollment or such immunization shall be completed within 30 days from date of entry into the school or the student will be excluded from school.

C. The child shall have been examined by a private physician. The results must be submitted to the school upon completion.

In-District Transfers

PARENTS OF CHILDREN IN SELF-CONTAINED SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES CANNOT TRANSFER THEIR CHILDREN TO ANOTHER CAMDEN CITY PUBLIC SCHOOL WITHOUT APPROVAL OF SPECIAL SERVICES. FOR ALL OTHER INQUIRIES RELATED TO TRANSFERS, PLEASE REFER TO CENTRAL OFFICE.



Mission Statement



CAMDEN CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ POLICIES

5114 SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

While the board believes that positive approaches to acceptable behavior are usually more

effective, it is sometimes necessary to penalize pupils for violations of school regulations to

ensure the good order of the school and to teach pupils the consequences of disruptive

behavior.

Pupils who indulge in disruptive behavior may be suspended or expelled. Disruptive

behavior includes, but is not limited to:

Continued and willful disobedience;

Open defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over a pupil;

Actions that constitute a continuing danger to the physical well-being of other pupils;

Physical assault upon another pupil, a teacher, or any school employee with or without

a firearm or other weapon;

Taking, or attempting to take, personal property or money from another pupil whether

by force or fear;

Willfully causing, or attempting to cause, substantial damage to school property;

Taking part in any unauthorized occupancy of a district facility and refusing to leave

promptly when directed to do so by a person in authority;

Inciting others to take part in an unauthorized occupancy;

Inciting other pupils to truancy;

Truancy and class cutting; leaving school property without permission;

Poor attendance and lateness;

Use or possession of unsafe or illegal articles;

Use of any tobacco product on school property;

Use, possession or sale of a controlled dangerous substance, drug paraphernalia,

anabolic steroids or alcohol;

Use of profanity or abusive language;

Turning in a false alarm;

Tampering with or damaging property of other pupils or staff members;

Selling or buying lottery tickets or any other gambling paraphernalia on school

property.



Mission Statement



Any pupil who commits an assault (as defined by N .J.S.A. 2C:12-1) with or without a

weapon upon a board member, teacher, administrator or other employee of the board of

education shall be suspended from school immediately according to procedural due

process, and suspension or expulsion proceedings shall begin no later than 30 calendar

days from the date of the pupil's suspension.

Any pupil who is convicted or adjudicated delinquent for possession of a firearm or a crime

while armed with a firearm or found knowingly in possession of a firearm on any school

property or on a school bus or at a school-sponsored function shall be immediately

removed from the school's regular education program for a period of not less than one

calendar year. The Superintendent may modify this suspension on a case-by case basis.

Each pupil so removed shall be placed in an alternative educational program or on home

instruction and shall be entitled to a hearing before the board. The hearing shall take place

no later than 30 days following the day the pupil is removed from the regular education

program and shall be closed to the public.

The principal shall be responsible for the removal of such students and shall immediately

report them to the Superintendent. The principal shall also notify the appropriate law

enforcement agency of a possible violation of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice.

The Superintendent shall determine at the end of the year whether the student is prepared

to return to the regular education program, in accordance with procedures established by

the Commissioner of Education.

In - school Redirection Room

The board directs the administration to arrange facilities for in-school redirection

whenever possible. Pupils will be required to occupy themselves with school-related work

during such suspensions. No socializing shall be permitted. Pupils shall be counted as

present in school but absent (excused) from individual classes.

General

Pupils on home suspension shall be counted absent (excused) unless the duration of the

suspension requires home instruction.



Mission Statement



Except when special considerations warrant (at the discretion of the administration), every

pupil will be given a written warning in the form of a disciplinary notice that subsequent

violation of school regulations may result in his/her exclusion or suspension.

Pupils under suspension are prohibited from participating in or attending any school-

regulated activity during the period of their suspension. They may not enter the school

buildings or grounds of this district without the permission of the Superintendent. Any

pupil under suspension who enters the school buildings or grounds without the permission

of the Superintendent may have the period of his/her suspension extended. The right to

continue the suspension or to expel is reserved to the board of education, acting upon the

recommendation of the administration.

Serious violations of school regulations which create a dangerous or unsafe condition for

other pupils shall cause a pupil to be suspended upon the first offense.

Making up Missed Work

Pupils who are under suspension will be required to make up all assignments missed

during the period of their suspension and will be given adequate opportunity to make up

this work.

Upon their readmission, failure to complete the makeup assignments will result in a

meeting with the parents/guardians. The Superintendent will notify parents/guardians by

telephone and send a letter regarding the telephone conversation immediately.

Procedures

The administration shall establish, and the board shall approve, specific procedures for

dealing with suspension cases. Regulations ensuring due process to all pupils before a

suspension is imposed shall be developed with the advice of the board attorney and shall

include at least:

Informing the pupil of the charges against him/her;

Giving the pupil a chance to reply to them.

These regulations shall also include safeguards for the dismissal of pupils suspended from

school, procedures for calling an immediate conference with parents/guardians, limitations

on the length of suspensions, and specifics for the reinstatement of pupils.



Mission Statement



Every effort shall be made to adjust each suspension promptly so that the pupil can be

returned to school with a minimum loss of school time and school work.

When the Superintendent imposes a suspension, he/she must report it to the board. No

suspension for reasons other than assault upon a teacher, administrator, board member or

other board employee may continue beyond the second regular meeting of the board

following the suspension without board action. No suspension for assault upon a teacher,

administrator, board member or other board employee may be continued beyond 30 days

without board action. A suspended pupil may be reinstated by the Superintendent before

board action.

Each pupil shall be afforded an informal hearing before the suspension or, if circumstances

prohibit, as soon as possible after the suspension except that, when extraordinary

circumstances involving the health and safety of the pupil or others in the school require

immediate exclusion, the hearing may be delayed to such time as circumstances permit.

Pupils suspended for a period of time longer than a short-term suspension shall be

afforded a formal hearing before the board which shall take place not later than the second

regular meeting of the board following the suspension. If the offense involves a weapon or

assault with or without the weapon (as described above), the hearing shall take place not

later than 30 days after the suspension occurs.

The board shall make a decision within five days of the close of the hearing. Any appeal of

the board's decision shall be made to the Commissioner of Education within 90 days of the

board's decision.

The board requires that such hearings shall be closed to the public, but should all parties

thereto agree, the suspended pupil who has requested a formal hearing shall be restored to

the regular educational program pending the outcome of the hearing, except when, in the

opinion of the Superintendent, the presence of the pupil in school poses such a danger to

himself/herself or others as to warrant continued absence.

Each such pupil suspended from the schools of this district shall receive individual

instruction commencing not later than five working days after the suspension occurs,

except that the board may, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, assign the pupil

to an alternate educational program to meet his/her particular needs (see policy #6172).



Mission Statement



Expulsion

The board will consider expulsion only if:

The Superintendent with his/her staff have exhausted all means of bringing about a

correction of repeated misconduct; or

The nature of a single act presents such a clear possibility of danger to others that

immediate definitive action is indicated

The parents/guardians of the pupil shall be interviewed, if possible, and advised of the

reasons why expulsion is being considered, of the rights of the pupil to a full hearing which

will afford him/her procedural due process, and the right of parents/guardians to appeal to

the Superintendent.

The child shall remain out of school until either:

An appeal made to the Superintendent is decided in the child's favor; or

The appeal (if made) has been denied and the board has met to hear the

Superintendent's recommendation

If the board determines that the charges, if true, may warrant expulsion, the board will set

a date for the hearing. The board attorney will arrange for the giving of legal notice to all

parties concerned for the preparation and presentation of evidence in support of the

charges at the hearing

The pupil must receive:

Notification of the charges against him/her

The names of the adverse witnesses

Copies of the statements and affidavits of those adverse witnesses

The opportunity to be heard in his/her own defense

The opportunity to present witnesses and evidence in his/her own defense

The opportunity to cross-examine adverse witnesses; and

The opportunity to be represented by counsel

Juvenile authorities and law enforcement agencies shall be notified or consulted if

necessary.



Mission Statement



If a pupil younger than 18 years of age is expelled, the board shall continue to supply an

educational program for him/her.

Implementation

The Superintendent shall develop detailed written procedures to implement this policy.

He/she shall ensure uniform and consistent application of the policy and shall report to the

board as required on its effectiveness.

When an alternative educational program is provided for a pupil identified as disruptive

but not disabled, the Superintendent shall inform the board.

File Code 5131.5 Vandalism/ Violence

The board of education views vandalism against school property by pupils as

reprehensible. The causes of such misbehavior often are complex, calling for careful study

by parents/guardians, school staff and appropriate community officials.

The board believes that pupils should respect property and take pride in the schools of this

district. Whenever a pupil has been found to have done willful and malicious damage to

property of the board, the principal of the school shall notify the Superintendent. The board

will hold the pupil or his/her parents/guardians liable for the damage caused by him/her.

Date: June 24, 1985 Reconfirmed: August 14, 2007

File Code 5131.5 Vandalism/ Violence

The board of education views vandalism against school property by pupils as

reprehensible. The causes of such misbehavior often are complex, calling for careful study

by parents/guardians, school staff and appropriate community officials.

The board believes that pupils should respect property and take pride in the schools of this

district. Whenever a pupil has been found to have done willful and malicious damage to

property of the board, the principal of the school shall notify the Superintendent. The board

will hold the pupil or his/her parents/guardians liable for the damage caused by him/her.



Mission Statement



File Code 5131.9 HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING

The Board of Education expects students to treat each other with civility and respect, and will not tolerate acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying. Like other disruptive or violent behaviors, this conduct interferes with a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment. The Board prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying against any student. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” is defined as any verbal, written or physical act that:

A. is perceived by a reasonable person as being motivated by race; color; religion; ancestry;

national origin; gender; sexual orientation; gender identity; and/or any physical, mental or

sensory handicap; and,

B. which occurs on school property, at any school-sponsored function, or on any school

bus; and,

C 1. which has the effect of harming a student or damaging a student’s property; or places a

student in reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

C 2. has the effect of insulting or demeaning a student or group of students in such a way as

to cause a substantial disruption with the orderly operations of a school.

File Code 5132 Dress and Grooming

Student Dress Code: The following are examples of unacceptable attire for students during school hours:

Torn and/or dirty clothing See-through or revealing clothing Excessively tight/form fitting clothing Shirts or blouses with buttons open beyond the mid-point of the chest Midriff, halter and tube tops Shorts which do not reach the top of the knee Dark eye glasses (except for medical reasons) Distracting attire including but not limited to the following:

Mini-skirts T-shirts, novelty tops, etc., with profane expressions and/or illustrations or



Mission Statement



words that may be offensive or inflammatory

Caps or hats in the building Combs and picks worn in the hair Beepers, phone, pagers and electronic games Walkman radios, boom-boxes, etc. Slippers, flip-flops Hair rollers Large bulky earrings, large gold, wooden or synthetic necklaces or bracelets

Large studded belts, necklaces, etc. or any accessory that may be used as a potential weapon

Physical Education Classes - Appropriate Dress - Middle/High School Students: The following items will be considered acceptable attire for those students participating in Physical Education class:

A standard Camden City Physical Education uniform or a uniform designed in the various school colors by their staff, student body and administrative personnel

Appropriate shorts of modest length and fit T-shirts (may not contain inappropriate logos) Footwear appropriate for physical activity shall be worn at all times Appropriate sweat or warm-up suits Clothing that student has worn to school is unacceptable (excluding

sneakers) to participate in P.E. classroom activities Parents are to be notified that physical education is mandatory for graduation and cannot be taken in the summer. Students who violate this policy shall be sent home. They are to be assigned to the redirection room and the parents/guardians are to be notified of the violation of this policy. Date: June 24, 1985 Revised: September 24, 1990 Revised: January 27, 1993 Reconfirmed: August 23, 1995

6154 Homework/Makeup Work

POLICY:

The Board of Education believes that homework relevant to material presented in class

provides an opportunity to broaden, deepen or reinforce the pupil's knowledge. Teachers



Mission Statement



must use discretion in deciding the number and length of assignments. The Board

encourages the use of interrelated major homework assignments such as term papers,

themes and creative art projects.

Homework shall not be used for punitive reasons.

Pupils absent for any reason must make up assignments, class work and tests within a

reasonable length of time. In most cases, a reasonable length of time shall be the same

number of school days as the days missed.

Pupils being excused for any reason must make arrangements with the teacher of the

missed classes in order to make up the work missed. This must be done before the absence

from class.

Incompletes:

When a pupil does not complete work missed for absence or other reasons, he/she will

receive an "incomplete" for the marking period. Pupils will be given ___school days

following the end of the marking period to make up the missed work.

If work critical to the pupil's understanding of the subject is not made up by the end of the

next marking period, the grade for that subject area may be an "F".

If work is missing during the final marking period of the school year, the grade will be left

to the discretion of the teacher. The teacher who has given an incomplete is responsible for

reporting to the pupil the work he/she has missed and citing the consequences mentioned

above.

Date: June 24, 1985

Revised: August 23, 1995

Legal References:

N.J.S.A. 18A: 11-1 General Mandatory Powers and Duties; N.J.S.A. 18A: 36-14 Religious Holidays,

Absence and Pupils on, Effect; N.J.S.A. 18A: 54-20 Powers of Board; N.J.A.C. 6:8-

4.2(c) 2iii Promotion and Graduation

Cross References:

5113 Absences and excuses; 6174 summer program



Mission Statement



FILE CODE: 5145.12 Search and Seizure

School lockers remain the property of the district even when used by pupils. Lockers are subject to administrative search in the interests of school safety, sanitation, discipline, enforcement of school regulations and to search by law enforcement officials on presentation of a proper warrant. Pupils and their parents/guardians shall be informed of this policy when lockers are assigned. A pupil's person and possessions may be searched by a school official provided that the official has reasonable grounds to suspect that the search will turn up evidence that the pupil has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school. Under no circumstances shall a search be conducted based solely upon an anonymous tip and/or a rumor that contraband is present. The extent or scope of the search shall be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the pupil and the nature of the infraction. A physical search may only be conducted by a staff member of the same sex as the pupil. Before instituting such a search, except in cases of emergency, the Principal shall try to inform the parents/guardians and request their presence. School personnel shall not conduct strip searches or body cavity searches of any pupils under any circumstances. Searches for Controlled Dangerous Substances/Drug Paraphernalia/Alcohol/Firearms/Other Deadly Weapons Searches conducted by staff when there is suspicion that laws and policies on safe and drug free schools are being violated shall be based on the reasonable grounds required by this policy. When law enforcement officials conduct the search, the more stringent grounds required by law must be applied. See policies 5131.6 and 5131.7. Adopted: June 24, 1985 Revised: August 23, 1995 Revised: September 30, 1996 Readopted: August 14, 2007 NJSBA Review/Update: March 2009



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ACADEMICS

Interim Reports

Children who are in danger of failing any subject will receive an interim report halfway

through the marking period.

Report Cards/Conferences

Conference situations facilitate a sharing of information and feedback for mutual

understanding and educational planning between the home and school. There will be two

scheduled conferences within the school year where report cards will be disseminated.

Fall conferences will take place in November and spring conferences will take place in

April. Parents and teachers are also encouraged to initiate a conference anytime during the

school year in the interest of the student. Should you wish to schedule a conference with

your child’s teacher please call the main office and schedule an appointment. All

conferences will be held between 3:00 and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Grading Scale and Weights

Homework

Students will receive homework daily. They are expected to complete each assignment and

turn it in as per teacher request. Homework is designed to reinforce skills and to ensure

the understanding of major concepts taught in a course. Homework assignments will be

included as a factor in the computation of a student’s grade.

Field Trips

Field trips are an extension of classroom learning that are scheduled during the school

year. Details of trip information, including permission slips, destination, etc. will be

provided by classroom teachers. For safety reasons, students may be excluded from field

trips. Other reasons include but are not limited to inappropriate behavior, refusal to wear

uniforms on a consistent basis, or at the discretion of administrators. (PLEASE SEE

PARTICIPATION LETTER INCLUDED IN THIS HANDBOOK.)

Classwork/Participation 20% Projects/Special Assignments 20% Homework 20% Tests/Quizzes 40% (Minimum 9 per quarter)

A=90-100 B=80-89 C=70-79 D=60-69 F=50-59



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Special Services

Special resources are available to students who require additional academic services. For specific information, parents should contact the classroom teacher, guidance counselor, or a member of the Child Study Team.

English as a Second Language

ESL teachers provide skills, strategies, and additional resource help in reading, writing, and speaking for English Language Learners.

SPECIAL AREA INSTRUCTION

Health and Physical Education

Physical Education is an integral part of the total education process. The Physical

Education teacher provides movement-centered and knowledge-based activities that focus

on the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical needs of the students, and enables them

to realize their full potential.

Art Education

Art strengthens our appreciation of the world, as well as our ability to be creative and

inventive decision-makers. Through experience in art, students develop the capacity to

perceive and respond imaginatively to works of art. These experiences result in knowledge

of forms of artistic expression and in the ability to draw personal meaning from works of

art.

Technological Literacy

To ensure Octavius V. Catto Family students are prepared with 21st Century skills, our

students will receive direct instruction for a minimum of one 45-minute period per week in

the Technology Literacy Lab. Students complete interdisciplinary units of study that are

fully aligned with district, state and federal technology goals and objectives. This provides

students with foundational computer competencies to ensure all Camden City Public

School students are technologically proficient by the end of grade 8.

Vocal and Instrumental Music

In order for students to understand the visual and performing arts, students must discover

the elements and principles both unique and common to music. An understanding of

musical elements and practice of the principles ensure the strengthening of



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interdisciplinary relationships with all content area curricula and their applications in daily

life.

Spanish Language

Students will be able to communicate in at least one world language in addition to English.

They will use language to engage in conversation, understand and interpret spoken and

written language, present information, concepts, and ideas while making connections with

other disciplines, and compare the language/culture studied with their own.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

There are a variety of co-curricular activities in which students are invited to participate.

These activities are an extension of the learning that takes place inside the classroom.

Students who wish to participate need to demonstrate appropriate behavior, a positive

attitude, as well as the ability to follow school rules and expectations. The following is a list

of some of the co-curricular activities offered at Catto:

Clubs/Activities: Newspaper, Drill Team, Dance, Fitness Club, Chess, Safety Patrol, Chorus,

and more!

Intermural/Intramural Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track and Field,

Cheerleading, Soccer, Flag Football, Bowling, Tennis, etc.

RE: Co-Curricular Activities Participation Letter

Dear Parent/Guardian:

During the school year students are invited to participate in various school-related trips, events, clubs

and programs. All of these co-curricular activities are an extension of the educational process that takes

place throughout the school year for the students who demonstrate positive behavior in the classroom

and throughout the school. If students repeatedly commit infractions outlined in the District Code of

Conduct, he/she can be excluded from these co-curricular activities. The students and parents must

understand that self-control of the student in the classroom has an impact on the learning environment

of others.



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It is also important that they follow the rules and instruction during co-curricular activities. Therefore,

the student(s) who has difficulty following instructions or school rules will not be allowed to participate.

We will keep you informed if your child has difficulty with his/her conduct.

We will inform you in writing if your child is excluded from any school-related activity.

*Failure to return this form MAY RESULT IN AUTOMATIC EXCLUSION!

*Please sign and return this form to your child’s teacher the first week of school. A copy will be sent

home.

Student’s Name: __________________________________ Grade: _________

Student’s Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ________

Parent/Guardian Name: ___________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________ Date: ________

Thank you for your help and support to this matter.

Boys and Girls Club

Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by

instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence. Boys & Girls Clubs

are a safe place to learn and grow – all while having fun.

If you are interested in having your child join the Boys & Girls Club, you must obtain an

application from the club office. You must fill out the application entirely and return it to

the club with a copy of your child’s birth certificate and a non-refundable application fee of

$10. The club will then contact you to let you know what your monthly fee will be based on

your income. Scholarships and financial aid are also available to qualifying families.



Mission Statement



SCHOOL-WIDE TECHNOLOGY

Technology Enhanced Classrooms

Octavius V. Catto Family School's classrooms are wired for success. All classrooms have

interactive SMART Boards, enhanced audio systems and classroom computer

centers. Teachers are trained to utilize technology tools to enhance instruction and

improve student achievement in all core curriculum content areas.

Internet/Network Access

Camden City Public Schools provide Internet access for educational purposes including

classroom activities and career development to assist in preparing students for success in

life and work in the 21st Century. Acceptable use policies are distributed to students and

must be signed annually by parents indicating students are permitted to utilize the

Internet.

SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

Parents and Visitors

Parents and visitors must sign in with security before entering the school. They must maintain a positive attitude and control themselves when on school property. Violators will be asked to vacate school grounds.

School Climate

It is unfortunate that bullying, harassment, and violence exist in schools. The Octavius V.

Catto Family School strives to have a safe school environment for all its learners. It is our

mission to allow students to build character, integrity, and respect through meaningful

relationships with staff members and peers.

Respect for School Property

Catto School is a state of the art facility which has placed Camden City Schools in the 21st

Century in every aspect. We must continue to encourage our students to be mindful of the

care and respect required for school property. We fully expect our students to accept the

responsibility to take care of the building and the property, including books and materials



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that are personally assigned to them. Parents will be responsible for any cost incurred by

vandalism done by their child. SEE CODE 5131.5

Electronic Devices/Toys

All unapproved electronic devices, including toys of any kind, are not allowed to be brought

to school. These items will be confiscated.

Cell Phone Usage

The unauthorized use of cell phones in school is strictly prohibited. Authorized use of cell phones for instructional purposes will be determined by administrators and instructional staff and must be documented in lesson plans. Repeated violation of this school policy will result in verbal, written and or other disciplinary actions determined by school administrators.

School Law Enforcement Officers

The Security Department of the Camden City Board of Education consists of officers who

receive annual training in areas such as: Passive Restraint Techniques, Crisis Intervention

and Prevention, CPR, Blood Borne Pathogens and Handcuffing.

Catto’s officers help monitor our school's Safe Corridor Program to ensure that students

have a safe passage to and from school. Octavius V. Catto Family School is equipped with

state of the art, 24 hour surveillance video monitoring system. Our officers monitor daily

activities within the school as well as the school grounds. Officers are also equipped with

communication devices to respond to emergency situations that may arise.

Their goal is to work together with administrators, teachers, school personnel and parents

to provide our students with a safe, nurturing, learning environment.



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Mission Statement of Security Personnel

The mission of the Security Department of the Camden City Board of Education starts with

a "Commitment to Excellent Performance." We are steadfast in our dedication to securing

our children's right to learn in a safe environment. Entrusted with protecting our children’s

future, our mission demands that each member of the Security Department embrace

integrity at all times. We will further develop the school law enforcement skills of a

competent, diligent and highly-trained staff that works together and practices a proactive

risk management approach throughout the department in a professional, yet personable

manner.

Fire Drills and School Safety Precautions

Fire and school safety precaution drills are held twice a month. Emergency information for

fire drills is posted in each classroom. Teachers review this information with students.

Fire Drills are used to practice exiting the building in case an emergency arises and the

building needs to be evacuated. Staff and students take this very seriously. We are asking

for parents’ help. If we are practicing for a Fire Drill, please do not remove your child from

the drill. This may cause other students to be confused and leave the fire drill practice.

Please wait until your child is dismissed. Discuss fire and school safety precaution drills

with your children at home.

Care of Textbooks and Equipment

Students are responsible for all textbooks and equipment issued to them during the school

year. Parents will be notified of the cost to replace any lost or damaged items. Report

cards will be issued when all fines are paid. If the lost book or equipment is found, any

money paid will be refunded if it has not been submitted to the district’s finance

department.

Parking Letter

Due to the high volume of parking needs and limited number of available parking spaces, it

is necessary for everyone to adhere to the parking guide lines.

There is no parking permitted in the first twelve spaces on the Boys’ and Girls’

Club side. (These spaces are located in the first section across from the Club’s main

entrance. The second row of the double row is reserved. They may or may not have

cones in them)

There is no parking along the curb in front of the Boys’ and Girls’ Club entrance



Mission Statement



There is no parking in the (RESERVED) spaces in front of the building. These spaces

are marked (RESERVED)

There is no parking in front of the building in fire zones, which are clearly marked in

yellow at the curb, as well as posted signs

Vehicles may not approach the curb along the side of the front of the school’s main

entrance doors during student arrival to school or student dismissal. Vehicles may

not enter the parking lot through the exit gate located at Westfield Avenue

STUDENT SERVICES

School Nurse

Ms. Marianne Paoli: 856-966-4097 ex. 45014

Catto School provides health services for all students by our full-time registered nurse. Our

nurse is responsible for promoting positive attitudes toward health by providing health

care, health counseling, and health education. The nurse is authorized to dispense

medicine to students who require daily treatments. In order for the nurse to dispense

medication, she must have a written prescription from your family doctor stating the

dosage and instructions. If the prescription does not accompany the medication, by law,

she is unable to dispense medical treatment. Additionally, medication must be in its

original container. Parents should also be sure to submit proper immunization records and

updated emergency contact information to the school nurse.

Guidance

Ms. Karen McRae: 856-966-4097 Ext. 45501

Our school guidance counselor provides an array of services for our students. Guidance and counseling are vital elements at Catto School. These two components are specifically designed to assist all students through a clearly articulated program. Guidance represents a comprehensive program of activities, which is an integral part of the Division of Support Services in the district.



Mission Statement



Guidance is a process of supporting students to develop knowledge of self as a unique individual in relationship to the environment. Counseling is the art of helping people. It is student-centered. The Guidance program provides for the personal, educational and career needs of all students.

Guidance draws on all appropriate resources to secure the maximum benefits for our students. Although Ms. Brown takes the lead in carrying out program strategies, administrators, teachers, parents, and community agencies are an invaluable part of the counseling team. Our Guidance Department depends upon the active participation of all individuals who care about the optimum development of our students.

Furthermore, the Guidance Department provides students with information and experiences that will develop positive attitudes and values. The program helps students acquire life-long learning skills needed for making thoughtful decisions and problem-solving.

Child Study Team

The Child Study Team provides diagnosis and treatment services to children who have, or are at risk for, developmental disabilities and related behavioral and emotional problems so that these children may achieve their full potential.

A pupil who is repeating a grade should have passing grades in all major subject areas by the close of the first report period. If he/she does not, the teacher should request a consultation with the Child Study Team in order to identify the child's specific learning deficiencies and to determine the appropriate corrective instructional approaches.

Exceptions:

Once a pupil exists an adaptive program (e.g. Bilingual, Special Education) he/she is subject to the promotional requirements of the general education program. Limited English proficient (LEP) pupils are not subject to the general promotional standard until they have been fully mainstreamed from the Bilingual Program. LEP pupils are governed by Bilingual Pupil Promotion Guidelines outlined in the regulation section of this policy.

Speech Therapy

Speech-language therapy is the treatment for most kids with speech and/or language disorders. A

speech disorder refers to a problem with the actual production of sounds, whereas a language disorder



Mission Statement



refers to a difficulty understanding or putting words together to communicate ideas. Our schools’

speech therapist, assists students who experience difficulty with speech and/or language disorders.

Speech Disorders and Language Disorders

Speech disorders include the following problems, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing

Association (ASHA):

Articulation disorders include difficulties producing sounds in syllables or saying words

incorrectly to the point that other people can't understand what's being said

Fluency disorders include problems such as stuttering, the condition in which the flow of speech

is interrupted by abnormal stoppages, repetitions (st-st-stuttering), or prolonging sounds and

syllables (ssssstuttering)

Resonance or voice disorders include problems with the pitch, volume, or quality of the voice

that distract listeners from what's being said. These types of disorders may also cause pain or

discomfort for the child when speaking

Language disorders can be either receptive or expressive:

Receptive disorders refer to difficulties understanding or processing language

Expressive disorders include difficulty putting words together, limited vocabulary, or inability to

use language in a socially appropriate way

If there are questions or concerns regarding the Handbook, please contact the Main Office.

Have a productive school year!

Thank you!

http://webmail.camden.k12.nj.us/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/ears/stutter.html

Octavius V. Catto Family

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