St. Joseph School Family

Handbook 2018-2019

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ADMINISTRATION Patrick Fennessy, Head of School (218) pfennessy   Assistant: Leslie Bartlett (236) lbartlett Mary Helen Bever, Director of Primary School (215) mhbever Vince McGovern, Director of Middle School (219) vmcgovern 

Communications/Calendars:   Lisa Mansoori(229) lmansoori 

MAIN OFFICE (210)  ADMISSIONS/REGISTRATION Absent and Tardy line: (310)  Shana Abner (243) sabner Patty White, (266) pwhite Cristina Murphy, cmurphy  ADVANCEMENT School Nurse Robin Jones (240) rjones  Tina O'Brien, Director (114) tobrien 

Rebecca Frisino (221) rfrisino BUSINESS OFFICE   Jaymie Mills (245) jmills Mary Dorn, (201) mdorn  Lauren Clisham (244) lclisham Angelina Neal (212) aneal  Jeanine Benham-Jones jbenhamjones 

GRADES K THROUGH 4  GRADES 5 THROUGH 8 KA Ann Carson, acarson  5A Kristy Heline, kheline KB Theresa Cedergreen, tcedergreen  5B Jamie Tremel, jtremel KC Ona Spaniola, ospaniola  5C Kelda Byrne, kbyrne   Kesslie Hollingshead, khollingshead  6A Emily Mullin, emullin 1A Liz Chambers, echambers  6B Joani Benoit, jbenoit 1B Georgina Bullock, gbullock  6C Chuck Woletz, cwoletz 1C Kathleen Ross, kross  7A Maura McCulloch, mmcculloch 2A Grace McLaughlin, gracem  7B George Finn, gfinn 2B Dorothy Ambuske, dambuske  7C Scott Hess, shess 2C Mary Guerra, mguerra  8A Kathy Marion, kmarion 3A Peggy Aman, pjaman  8B Charlie Wood, cwood 3B Mary Doquilo, mdoquilo  8C Nicole Grady, ngrady 3C Sara Alvarado, salvarado Amanda O’Callaghan, aocallaghan  Math: Linh-Co Nguyen, lnguyen 4A Jayson Lacktrup, lacktrup  7th/8th math: Thuc Vu 4B Sara Moller, smoller  MUSIC 4C Elizabeth Steiner, esteiner  Lauren James, ljames 

Robert Carroll, rcarroll LEARNING RESOURCE   Sean Richarz, sricharz Ellen Flies, Director (225) eflies   Vicki Yousoofian, (238) Grade K,vyousoofian  SPANISH Juli Rangel, Grades 1-2, jrangel   Julissa Robles, Grades K-4, (233) jrobles JoePoe Daly, Grades 3-4, jdaly   Priscilla Milasich, Grades 5-8, pmilasich Jenny Fetchko, Grades 5-6, jfetchko Sarah Nehrbass, Grades 7-8 snehrbass   LIBRARY  Lee McCluskey, ALO, lmccluskey  Merry Tucker (214) mtucker Chris Miller, cmiller   Jean Woletz (217) jwoletz 

all emails: @stjosephsea.org 

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ART   ST. JOSEPH PARISH Molly Crocker, mcrocker  732 18th Ave E Seattle, WA 98112 

(206) 324-2522JAGUAR CLUB (224) David Sepulveda, djsepulveda  Pastor 

Rev. John D. Whitney, S.J. (107) COUNSELOR   Deacon  Jennifer Moyer-Taylor (220) jmoyerta  Steve Wodzanowski (106) 

Parochial Vicar P.E    Rev. Julian Climaco, S.J.  (103) Robby Hayes, Grades K-4, CYO (216) rhayes Pastoral Staff  Paul McShane, Grades 5-8, (223) pmcshane Marti McGaughey (108) 

Theresa Lukasik  (111) PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION  Renée Leet  (100) Rebecca Foss, rfoss  Bob McCaffery-Lent (109) Linda McGill, lmcgill  Tina O’Brien  (114) Margaret Dang  Caprice Sauter (102) 

TECHNOLOGY  Facilities John Knierim (228) jknierim  Yuri Kondratyuk  (110) Jamie Read (242) jread Devin Ross (234) dross  PARENT ASSOCIATION BOARD 

LeAna Alvarado-Smith, President P & T LUNCHROOM SERVICES  Aime Mitchell  lunch@stjosephsea.org  Molly Shearer Todd Vien 206-218-7303  Joe Augustavo Phoung Nguyen  David Hein Noung Nguyen   Jeff Hawkins Ali Saadawi  Hass Babaie 

Andrea Lines FACILITIES/ MAINTENANCE  Marcia Hood  facilities@stjosephsea.org  Meaghan Carroll Yuri Kondratyuk  (110) yurik  Lando Alvarado Todd Vien (269) tvien  Aylie Millar Ben Firsov  Kristine Losh Arturo Jimenez  Winnie Forbes Jacinto Osses  Yemi Jackson Paul Patdu  Michele Grevson-Ellenbaum Maria Bui 

PREFERRED UNIFORM STORE 

Mark Huson Marisa Bavand 

Lands’ End 1-800-469-2222 School Code: 9000-3157-6  Montessori School of Seattle http://www.landsend.com/schools  Steffanie Mott (206-325-0497) 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Staff Directory  2-3

Mission Statement  7 

Philosophy  8 

School-wide Learning Expectations -SLE  9 

Governance  10-11

Academic Probation Policy  12 

Accreditation  12 

Admission Guidelines  12-13

Policy for Admittance  12 

Tuition Payments  13 

Additional Obligations  13 

Attendance  13-14

Procedure for Absences and Early Dismissals  14 

Tardiness  14 

Family Vacations  14 

High School Visits  14 

Booster Seat Law  15 

Catholic Liturgy  15 

Cell Phones  15 

Class Placement  15 

Communication/Telephone Use  15 

Concussions  15-16 

Counseling  16 

Curriculum  16 

CYO - Catholic Youth Organization  16 

Daily School Schedule  16-17 

Discipline  17-21

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Code of Conduct  17 

Student Responsibilities  17 

Parent Responsibilities  18 

Teacher Responsibilities  18 

Administration Responsibilities  18 

Disciplinary Procedures  18 

Detention  19 

Suspension  19 

Expulsion  19 

Procedures for Expulsion  20 

Due Process Procedure  20 

Expulsion Review Procedure  20 

Drug and Alcohol Abuse  20 

Harassment and Bullying  20-21

Cyberbullying  21 

Donations to the School  22 

Emergency Preparedness  22 

Emergency Closures  22 

Field Trips  22 

Fundraising and Philanthropic Projects 22 

Grading Policy  23 

Health Screenings  23 

Homework  23-24

Illness and Injury  24 

Internet Policy  24 

Jaguar Club  24-25

Learning Resource: Academic Support and Advanced Learning  25 

Library  25-26

Lockers  26 

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Lost and Found  26 

Lunch Program  26 

Medication  26-27

Parties  27 

Playground  27 

Promotion and Retention of Students  27 

School Records  27-28

Student Progress  28 

Student Service Program  28 

Student Support Team  28-29

Textbooks / /Classroom Novels  29 

Traffic and Parking Procedures  29-30

Uniform Policy and Dress Code  30-32

Use of Space  32 

Vaccinations  32 

Veracross  32 

Visitors’ Identification  32 

Volunteering  32 

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MISSION STATEMENT

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PHILOSOPHY

St. Joseph School develops students who are open to growth, intellectually competent, and role

models of Catholic teaching dedicated to social justice.

As a Catholic school steeped in the Gospel values and the Jesuit and Holy Names traditions, the

guiding philosophy of St. Joseph School is to provide a student-centered learning environment

committed to the development of the whole child.

In partnership with parents:

St. Joseph School provides a STRUCTURE to address all students’ unique growth, challenging

students intellectually to:

• develop critical thinking skills

• understand and accept a diverse society

• appreciate the beauty of creation

St. Joseph School provides the SUPPORT for reflection and growth by working in partnership with

our parents to stress:

• the formation of character and leadership

• the necessity of service to others

• the importance of lifelong learning

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Learning Expectations (SLEs)

A St. Joseph Jesuit Catholic School Student is:

1. A faith-filled person who:

1.1 Engages in prayer to nurture a personal relationship with God

1.2 Worships through participation in the Mass/liturgical celebrations

1.3 Practices Gospel values through service and demonstrating empathy and compassion toward

others

1.4 Demonstrates knowledge of Catholic faith, traditions, and teachings

2. A curious and confident learner who:

2.1 Understands and connects content of all subjects

2.2 Communicates effectively and responsibly in a variety of ways

2.3 Demonstrates effective learning habits, organizational skills, and time management

2.4 Applies critical thinking and creativity in different situations

2.5 Uses technology as a resource for learning

3. A person of integrity who:

3.1 Takes responsibility for one’s actions

3.2 Makes thoughtful and moral choices

3.3 Practices personal and academic honesty

4. A contributing member of our global community who:

4.1 Seeks understanding of other cultures

4.2 Actively participates in community service projects

4.3 Responsibly cares for natural resources

4.4 Works cooperatively with others

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GOVERNANCE OVERVIEW

St. Joseph School is an expression of the educational mission of St. Joseph Parish and the Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle. By canon and secular law, the Pastor is responsible for the administration of the total parish, including the school. The head of school is the chief administrative officer of the school, is hired by the pastor and is a member of the parish staff.

The Head of School, as chief administrator, is responsible for the entire school including advancement, finance, and campus management, as well as staffing. He/she oversees the spiritual, academic and student life of all the children at the school. To assist him/her in these tasks the head of school works closely with the administrative team, which includes the director of the primary school, the director of the middle school, lead teachers from the primary and middle schools and the learning resource director.

The Directors of the primary and middle schools are responsible for the continuing Catholic faith formation of the faculty and students of each school, their educational programs and their day-to-day operations. The primary and middle school Directors are hired by the head of school in consultation with the pastor and are directly responsible for administering the educational program of each school in a manner consistent with St. Joseph School’s mission and philosophy as a parish school in accordance with policies established by the archdiocese, the parish, the school and the school commission. The Directors of the primary and middle schools are the educational, instructional and spiritual leaders of each school and officially represent St. Joseph School with educational authorities including the Catholic Schools Department of the Seattle Archdiocese and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). It is the Directors’ duty to keep the head of school and the pastor informed at all times of the current status of their respective schools and to work cooperatively with the head of school in the development of school priorities. In the absence of the head of school, the Directors of the primary/middle schools are in charge of the school.

The School Commission consists of the pastor, the head of school, a pastoral appointee, finance, advancement, buildings, grounds and safety committee chairpersons, the president of the parent association and one additional representative of the parent association (elected by the parent association board) and up to ten at large members. Members are chosen according to archdiocesan criteria including: commitment to Catholic education, one's personal faith, availability, integrity, confidentiality and the ability to act for the good of the entire school community. The school commission meets quarterly to discuss policies in the areas of finance, curricula, personnel and facilities. Attendance at commission meetings is usually limited to commission members. Persons wishing to address the commission should make their interest known to the head of school or chairperson of the commission no later than seven calendar days prior to a regular meeting. Any commission member may request an executive session excluding all non-commission members. Such a request shall be granted if approved by a simple majority of the voting commission members at the time of the request.

The Buildings, Grounds and Safety Committee, the Advancement Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Parent Association are all standing committees of the school commission. Committee recommendations must be made to the school commission for final approval and action.

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The Buildings, Grounds and Safety Committee is in charge of campus maintenance, coordinates major renovations, and ensures compliance with safety regulations.

The Advancement Committee oversees all fundraising activities and all publications.

The Finance Committee recommends the budget and teacher salary scale to the school commission. It also establishes a five-year budget and monitors the budget progression.

The Parent Association Board supports and enriches our school community by promoting an environment of engagement and involvement among parents, students, teachers and administrators.

The St. Joseph School Endowment Fund is a separately incorporated 501c3 founded to support the mission of St. Joseph School. The endowment provides critical funding to the school’s financial aid budget, helping keep St. Joe’s accessible to families regardless of their ability to afford full tuition. The endowment is run by a board of Directors, who help ensure that the fund is well managed to guarantee funding in perpetuity. For more information on St. Joseph School Endowment Fund, please visit the school’s website.  

ACADEMIC PROBATION POLICY It is the goal of St. Joseph School to maintain high academic standards and to encourage good study skill habits. Parents will be notified if their student has three or more grades of D or below in any one trimester. The student will need to meet with the appropriate director and set up a contract that will allow for improvement in these areas. If a student is on a specialized program, such as Individualized Educational Program (IEP), or student learning plan, the learning resource specialist, in consultation with the appropriate director, will monitor that student's progress.

ACCREDITATION The process of accreditation provides a form of recognition by an external agency, which assures that a school and its community are committed to quality and ongoing school improvement based on self-assessment and planning. Once accredited, a school must complete and submit an annual report stating progress towards its goals. Schools that have received full accreditation must complete a full-scale self-evaluation every six years. St. Joseph School was successfully accredited during the 15-16 school year.

ADMISSION GUIDELINES Policy for Admittance

The Head of School and Pastor reserve the right to make exceptions to the admission policy at any time. St. Joseph School exists primarily to educate the children of St. Joseph Parish, and the surrounding parishes without schools: Immaculate Conception, St. James, St. Mary, St. Patrick, St. Peter, Mt. Virgin and Church of the Vietnamese Martyrs. St. Joseph also welcomes students from other parishes and non-Catholic students. St. Joseph School admits qualified students, capable of succeeding at the school. We seek to enhance our community spirit and continue the ethnic, economic and religious diversity in the student body. There are three classes per grade. Class size in kindergarten through second grade ranges from 20-22 students, and in grades three through eight, 23-25 students. Students are considered for openings at each grade level in the following order:

• Siblings of current students in good standing.11

• Students in families who are registered, active, and supporting members of St. Joseph,Immaculate Conception, St. James, St. Mary, St. Patrick, St. Peter, Mt. Virgin or Church ofthe Vietnamese Martyrs.

• Students of families registered in other Catholic parishes.• Students of families not members of a Catholic parish.

The community of St. Joseph School believes in and supports the ministry of our Catholic Schools. Parishioner families receive special consideration in terms of acceptance, sometimes to the exclusion of other families applying to St. Joseph School. To qualify for this special consideration as a parish family, the following steps have been taken:

• Activation: to choose St. Joseph Parish as your community of faith through registration,either in person or online;

• Affirmation: to claim annually St. Joseph Parish as your community through your pledgeof prayer and support;

• Participation: to live in the community of St. Joseph Parish through engagement in thelife and ministry of the Parish

As long as the terms and agreements of the tuition contract are satisfied, students in good standing are eligible for continued enrollment. When openings occur for each grade level, applications will be reviewed according to the above criteria. A child should be five years of age by August 31 to be eligible for Kindergarten. All new students must submit an immunization form before school begins in the fall. Admission of students depends on administrative review of applications and school records, and in some cases, interviews and testing. The administration then considers the needs of the students and the needs of the school. Final acceptance will be in writing to all new families admitted for the following school year. All students accepted to St. Joseph School are accepted on a conditional basis.

ADMISSION OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS A Catholic school will accept any child for whom an appropriate program can be designed and implemented following its prescribed enrollment procedures. Each child is to be considered for admission based upon his/her emotional, academic and physical needs and the resources available to the school in meeting those needs. The local school site determines continued enrollment based on these factors. POLICY OF THE ARCH. OF SEATTLE 4.1(G)

Tuition payments A non-refundable enrollment fee of $200 per student or $300 per family for all students both returning and new is due at the time the enrollment contracts are returned in April. The April payment includes both an enrollment fee and the first month’s tuition. We encourage you to have tuition payments automatically withdrawn from your bank account. If you would like to start using this method of payment, please log into FACTS to change your payment method from invoice to ACH, or call the business office at (206) 329-3260 extension 222. The tuition plan for 2018-2019 is:

No. of students  Tuition  10 Monthly Payments 

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1  $13,720  $1,372 

2  $26,200  $2,620 

3  $34,950  $3,495 

4  $40,640  $4,640 

In addition to tuition there may be fees, such as camps, graduation or capstone experiences. After the April payment, the remaining balance is paid monthly, May through January. Tuition statements are available through FACTS each month and may include charges for Jaguar Club, grade fees or miscellaneous items. Any charges not paid when due shall accrue late fees each month. The office may hold report cards and requested transcripts if any financial or school obligations are not met. Such obligations include, but are not limited to, outstanding tuition, library books, class or textbooks, P&T lunch accounts, CYO uniforms, Jaguar Club fees and unpaid auction accounts.

Additional Obligations Prior to enrollment each parent signs an agreement that describes obligations in addition to tuition. Each family is expected to participate in the major fundraising activities during the school year: the Jog-a-thon, the two-night school auction, the School Annual Appeal and the Scrip program. The last item listed on the tuition agreement form is 25 hours of service per family to the school or to the parish. This service must be completed and the form turned in or completed online before the end of the school year. It is a parental responsibility to document and turn in their donated hours order to receive credit.

ATTENDANCE Punctual, daily attendance is expected of all students. Whether a late arrival or early dismissal, valuable instructional time is missed. Consequently, both are strongly discouraged. In the event of an absence, late arrival, or early dismissal, parents/guardians are required to phone the main office, 206-329-3260 ext. 210 or 310, or email pwhite@stjosephsea.org to report student absence/tardy. Parents and students are expected to make every effort to assure punctual and consistent attendance at school. Absences, late arrivals, or early dismissals because of illness, medical appointments, or family emergencies are considered excused. Absences, late arrivals, or early dismissals for any other reason, unless approved by the director of the primary or middle school, are unexcused.

Procedure for Absences and Early Dismissals When a student must be excused early, parents must send a note/email to the school to request the early dismissal. The note must specify the adult who will be picking up the student and must be signed by the parent. The adult picking up the student is required to come to the school office and sign the student out. The adult must be authorized by the parent/guardian through the Parent Portal or be given written permission by the parent/guardian. If students return the same day, before returning to class they must go to the office for a slip to show the teacher.

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A student with 10 absences during one trimester may not receive credit for that trimester unless arrangements are made with the teacher and appropriate director before the end of the trimester. A written appeal may be submitted to the administration for consideration.

Tardiness If a student will be more than 30 minutes late, parents should notify the school 206-329-3260 ext. 210 or 310, or by email. Tardies are recorded on report cards. If a student is late 10 or more times in a trimester, the appropriate director will contact parents to schedule a meeting.

Family Vacations Parents are asked to follow the school calendar when planning family vacations. It may seem convenient to extend a school holiday by a day or two, but if several families make the same decision at the same time, the effect on the planned academic program is detrimental to the classroom-learning environment. If parents choose to make an exception and schedule a vacation of any length outside the school holiday schedule, a Leave of Absence form must be completed, signed by the parent and submitted to the Main Office at least one week prior to the absence. The office will route Primary School forms to the teacher and the director for comment. Middle School students route their own form to their teachers and the director for signature. Likewise, if a family will miss any portion of the day/s just before or after a school holiday, the signed Leave of Absence form is required one week in advance of the absence. Student attendance records will reflect a ‘W’ (absent without leave) when the form is not submitted per this policy. Leave of Absence forms are available on the parent portal.

The respective school director, in consultation with the teacher(s), will negotiate homework and other make-up work and deadlines for such work. Do not expect teachers to devote outside tutoring time to students who fall behind due to extended vacations. Students who miss standardized tests due to family vacation will, upon the student’s return to school, need to work with their teacher and the LRC to determine if it is possible to make up the test or portions of it.

High School Visits Eighth grade students are allowed three excused absences for high school visits. A High School Visit Request form must be completed, signed by the parent, the student, and the Middle School Director. Please submit completed forms to the Main Office at least five days prior to your visit. We recommend students use the conference days in the fall for visiting schools. Please do not schedule high school visits during periods scheduled for standardized testing. Forms are available in the Main Office or with the 8 th grade teachers.

BOOSTER SEAT LAW Washington's Child Passenger Restraint Law (RCW 46.61.687) requires: Children under age 8, unless they are 4'9" tall (whichever comes first), must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system (car seat or booster seat). Children under the age of 13 years old should ride in the backseat whenever it is practical.

CATHOLIC LITURGY All students are required to participate in religion classes, school liturgies and prayer services. Parents, friends and parishioners are invited to our prayer services and liturgies throughout the year, usually scheduled once each month. Please watch the FLASH and check the school calendar for dates and times.

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CELL PHONES On a typical day, student use of cell phones is unnecessary. All communication must go through the office. Students are not allowed to have their cell phones on and/or with them during the school day. Students who bring a cell phone to school must keep the phone powered down and stored in the designated location in their classroom from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Students are not permitted to use their cell phones to contact their parents during the school day.

In emergency situations during the school day, parents are asked to call the school office, not call or text their child’s cell phone. Students can use their cell phones outside of the school building before school or after dismissal. If a student uses her/his cell phone during the school day, it will be confiscated and given to a Director. A parent may pick up the phone from the Director at dismissal. Repeated offenses could result in a student not being allowed to have a cell phone at school. We expect students to use restraint when it comes to cell phone use during the school day.

CLASS PLACEMENT The Directors, in consultation with the teaching staff, will place students in the most appropriate educational setting. Placement reflects our knowledge of teacher skills, the academic and personal needs of students, and our understanding of mixed groupings. Our goal in placement is to create a positive learning atmosphere within classrooms. Peer influences and assimilation of new students will also be considered. Because every effort is made to establish a balanced mix of students in each class, the school discourages parents from requesting class placement. The school will only entertain placement requests when they are made in writing to the appropriate director, specifically outlining concerns. Any request must be placed in writing and given to the director with the understanding that the request may not be honored. If you have information as a parent that we need to know, please inform us in writing. Class lists are made available via the school’s student information system at 3:00 pm on the last Friday before school opens. An email with a link to the site is also sent to all parents.

COMMUNICATION / TELEPHONE USE On Thursdays a communication newsletter, the FLASH, is emailed to all parents and posted on the school website. Forms included in the FLASH will be downloadable or links will be provided. All messages, lunches, and homework must be left at the main office. Parents should not text students during the day, as they are not allowed to use their cell phones from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Please do not interrupt teachers and classes. Students in grades 5-8 should come and check for these items or messages before lunch. For students in grades K-4, items will be delivered.

CONCUSSIONS Any student with the diagnosis of a concussion needs to have a letter from their healthcare provider on file to ensure proper accommodations are in place. Once the office has received confirmation of the diagnosis of concussion the classroom teacher, P.E teacher, playground staff, LRC, music, library, Jaguar Club, and CYO will be notified. Students may not return to activities until we receive a letter from the healthcare provider clearing them of restrictions. Verbal notification is not acceptable. The homeroom teacher needs to convey accommodations on their teaching plans for substitute teachers. As with any student information we need to maintain confidentiality while still protecting the student.

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COUNSELING The school counselor guides students and helps them to develop skills that overcome barriers to academic success, including barriers related to emotional and social issues. Frequently, the counselor works with the school and family. If the counselor determines that a student should be seen on a continuing basis, parents will be notified. Generally, information obtained during visits is confidential, unless parents provide consent to release information. However, state law requires that confidentiality be waived when students plan to hurt themselves or others. In addition, the counselor is bound by law to report the abuse or neglect of any child. By state law, parents with children under the age of 13 are able to ask the counselor for general impressions of the counseling sessions.

CURRICULUM St. Joseph School is guided by Archdiocesan, national and state common core learning standards for all subjects.

CYO - CATHOLIC YOUTH ORGANIZATION Throughout the school year, the school participates in sports events and teams organized through the CYO (Catholic Youth Organization), a volunteer, parent-run operation. Many types of sports programs are offered, including soccer (K-8), basketball (4-8), track (K-8), cross country (K-8) volleyball (4-8), and baseball (5-8). The objective of CYO athletics is to run a well-organized program providing opportunities for youth involved in the competitive arena to develop physical fitness, self-discipline, mental alertness and attitudes of sportsmanship based on Christian principles of fair play and cooperation. All CYO volunteers must be up to date with requirements and background checks. All participating families are expected to adhere to the CYO code of conduct.

DAILY SCHOOL SCHEDULE The first bell rings at 8:15 am; (before 8:15 and after 3:15 students should be in Jaguar Club or a supervised activity). The lobby is open at 8:00 am. At 8:25 am students should be in class ready to begin. Those arriving after 8:25 am are considered tardy and should report directly to the office to obtain a tardy slip. If students will be absent or tardy later than 9:00 am, please call the absent and tardy line at 206-329-3260 x 310. Leave a brief message with your student’s name and homeroom. On Tuesdays, school is dismissed at 2:00 pm for staff meetings, and five times during the year at noon. The daily schedule:

7:00-8:15 am Jaguar Club

8:15 am First bell rings

8:25 am Tardy bell rings

10:00-10:15 am Recess 3, 4

10:15-10:30 am Recess K

10:40-10:55 am Recess 5

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10:55-11:10 am Recess 6

11:00-11:20 am Lunch 7, 8

11:20-11:40 am Recess 7,8

11:30-11:50 am Lunch K, 1, 2

11:50-12:15 pm Recess K, 1, 2

12:00-12:20 pm Lunch 3, 4

12:20-12:45 pm Recess 3, 4

12:30-12:50 pm Lunch 5, 6

12:50-1:15 pm Recess 5, 6

1:30-1:45 pm Recess 1, 2

2:45 pm Dismissal, K-4 (2:00 each Tuesday)

3:00 pm Dismissal, 5-8 (2:00 each Tuesday)

2:45-6:00 pm Jaguar Club (2:00-6:00 each Tuesday)

DISCIPLINE Code of Conduct

The code of conduct applies to all members of the school community. It flows from the school’s mission, philosophy, and school-wide learning expectations. The primary goal is to ensure a learning environment that fosters the development of the total person. St. Joseph School strives to create a faith-centered community that educates and inspires students to reach their God-given potential in an atmosphere of respect. Conduct both in and outside of school that is detrimental to the life of the school and/or goes against the mission of the school is grounds for disciplinary action.

Student Responsibilities It is the student’s responsibility to participate in the educational program of the school and to help maintain an orderly environment throughout the school. In order to accomplish this, the student agrees to observe the following school wide rules:

1. Behave in a respectful manner toward all: classmates, staff, volunteers, and visitors.2. Respect all property: your own, other people’s, and the school’s.3. Allow others to speak, be heard, and to learn.4. Demonstrate empathy, honesty, and integrity.5. Be responsible for supplies, textbooks, and assignments.6. Be at the right place at the right time.7. Help maintain a clean, orderly school.8. Discourage negative behavior in others.9. Wear the correct uniform.10. Use the Internet properly and safely.11. Keep cell phones off and in your locker.12. Do not bully, intimidate, or harass other students.

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13. Do not bring any weapons, pretend or real, to school.14. Do not use or possess tobacco, drugs, or alcohol.

In addition to the above school wide rules, each teacher establishes a classroom management plan. This plan includes rules for the classroom and consequences for not adhering to the rules. Class management plans will be posted in the classroom and shared at back to school night in September.

Parent Responsibilities Parents are the greatest influence on a child. The school can only attain its discipline goals with their active support. The parents’ primary responsibilities are to encourage in the child a positive attitude toward self and learning, and to guide the child in becoming a responsible, caring member of his/her own faith tradition. The following are expected of St. Joseph School parents:

1. Recognize that the parents have the primary role in a child’s education.2. Foster in the child a Christ-like concern for all classmates and their reputations.3. Uphold the rules and policies of the school.4. Support the authority of school personnel.5. Communicate with the teacher first about a concern over a classroom situation. If unsatisfied,

speak with the appropriate director. If still unsatisfied, contact the executive administrativeteam.

6. Consult teachers and administrators in the event of a conflict before forming a final opinion.7. Help the child develop a mature attitude of respect for personal belongings and the property of

others.8. Be available for requested conferences.

Teacher ResponsibilitiesIt is the teacher’s responsibility to educate students in a manner that promotes their intellectual, spiritual, and emotional growth. These responsibilities include:

1. Encourage an atmosphere that assists each individual student’s educational, spiritual, andpersonal growth without fear of intimidation by others.

2. Help students develop pride in St. Joseph School based on respect for themselves and others.3. Create, communicate and reinforce appropriate classroom expectations that are clear to the

students.4. Provide academic instruction appropriate and challenging to the students.5. Enforce all school rules.6. Foster respect for all school personnel.7. Deal promptly and consistently with any inappropriate behavior among students.8. Keep parents and school administration informed about the behavioral and academic

performance of students.9. Dress professionally and modestly.

Administration ResponsibilitiesIt is the responsibility of the head of school and Directors of the primary and middle schools to administer the total program of the school in adherence with its mission, philosophy, and school-wide learning expectations. These responsibilities include:

1. Model Christ’s teaching of love for one’s neighbor in all interactions.2. Represent the needs of the students.3. Articulate school programs and communicate appropriate parent input to school personnel.4. Facilitate the work of the school personnel in implementing the goals of the school.5. Be accountable to the pastor and school commission for the observance of all applicable

education policies.6. Serve on appointed commissions, boards, and committees.

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7. Encourage ongoing professional development for all staff.8. Dress professionally and modestly.Disciplinary Procedures

Students, parents and staff agree to the disciplinary procedures established by the school and approved by the school commission. The school administration reviews the disciplinary measures annually and the school commission approves any changes. Emphasis is placed on the recognition of appropriate behaviors. However, when a student chooses to behave in a way contrary to the school code of conduct, corrective actions may be taken. These actions are used at the sole discretion of the school through its teachers and administrators. Consequences are based on four factors:

1. The seriousness of the offense.2. The student’s unique needs.3. The student’s behavior record.4. The circumstances surrounding the offense.

The administrator and/or teacher retains discretion to use the following corrective actions appropriately:

1. Missing recess time: Service tasks or academic work assigned during recess time2. Removal from classroom: A student is sent to another classroom or the school office for

inappropriate behavior. Readmission to class occurs when the student is under control andable to function according to classroom rules.

3. Referral: Referrals may be issued for either repeated failure to follow school rules or a singleserious offense. The form is sent home for a parent’s signature. School administrators willdetermine the appropriate consequences, based on the severity of the infraction.

4. Detention: The student may be directed to do academic or service work on campus by theadministration.

5. Behavior Probation Contract: A written contract or agreement among the school, parent andstudent, stating specific areas where corrective behavior is needed.

1. Suspension: Temporary removal of the student from the classroom (in-house suspension) orthe school campus and activities, including CYO sports.

Detention If students are to be kept for behavioral or academic reasons, notice will be given to the parents so that they can make transportation arrangements and be aware that their child will be home later than usual.

Suspension Procedures for suspension: The duration of suspension is determined by the seriousness of the offense, the student’s unique needs, the student’s behavior record, and the circumstances surrounding the offense. The parents will be notified by the school administration if a student is suspended. A conference time will be arranged with the appropriate director and other staff if necessary. This must take place before the student is allowed to return to school.

Expulsion Expulsion is the permanent exclusion of a student from the student body. Expulsion is reserved for serious offenses, and is enacted at the discretion of the administration. While the following activities may result in expulsion, this list is neither exhaustive nor limited to these items. A student may be expelled for engaging in the following:

1. Use or possession of tobacco, drugs or alcohol on school property or at school functions19

2. Inappropriate conduct, particularly in matters of morals, dishonesty and crime3. Bringing of weapons or firearms to school4. Harassment of any person, including bullying and cyberbullying5. Serious, repeated violations of school regulations6. Any action that, in the judgment of the administration, reasonably appears to pose a threat

to another person or to the educational processProcedures for Expulsion

The school will notify parents prior to expelling a student from the school. Parents will be sent a certified letter notifying them of the pending expulsion.

Due Process Procedure Parents may request, in writing, a review of the expulsion decision. The school administration must receive this request within ten (10) calendar days of the expulsion. If it is not received within this period, the student and parents are deemed to have waived the review. The executive committee of the school commission will conduct the review.

Expulsion Review Procedure Parents shall submit their concerns, in writing, to the chair of the school commission, prior to the review. The executive committee will notify the student, parents, and the school administration of their decision in writing.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Drug, tobacco and alcohol abuse is a serious problem in our society. We acknowledge this and will do everything reasonable to maintain a drug free environment. The faculty and staff will assist students in adopting drug free values. Our efforts include workshops and counseling in addition to policies and guidelines. St. Joseph School will not tolerate illegal substance possession, sale, use or distribution. Prohibited substances include alcoholic beverages, drugs, tobacco products and other controlled items defined as illegal under the law. Disciplinary actions include suspension and expulsion. If a student is identified as having possessed or used illegal substances, the school may do the following:

1. Require family participation in a comprehensive and qualified chemical dependencyevaluation, including a drug analysis, at family expense. This evaluation must be released toschool administration as a precondition to continued enrollment, which is not guaranteed.

2. Require the family to follow the evaluation recommendations, which may include familycounseling, treatment, education and discipline. A summary report from the provider detailingtreatment compliance will be sent to the school administration.

3. Upon receipt of evaluation, an administrative conference will take place. If a disciplinaryaction plan is required, we will notify the family of the term of the plan. Community servicewill be a part of the action plan. Other actions may include, but are not limited to, requestsfor random drug screens and searches of lockers, desks, or personal possessions.

4. Whenever criminal law is violated, the school may refer the situation to law enforcement.Harassment and Bullying

St. Joseph School is dedicated to quality education and Christian formation in the Catholic tradition. It is not within our school policy or Christian values to condone harassment or bullying and we do a great disservice to our children when we ignore or excuse this behavior. We do not allow any inappropriate physical contact. Because it is demeaning and intimidating, we cannot allow students to refer to people or sexual acts in a teasing and insulting manner. Even though some may not consider these references to be offensive, we at St. Joseph School do. It is threatening to the students who hear these comments and

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is frequently inappropriate to their age. Racial teasing and intimidation is damaging to the self-esteem of all our children, those who receive it and those who hear it. Racial insults will not be tolerated. Harassment is also subject to discipline. It is important to sensitize our children to these areas of concern. Everyone at St. Joseph School is committed to making our school a safe and nurturing environment for all students. This is a reflection of our implementation of a curriculum called Steps to Respect. We seek to eliminate hurtful behaviors and to provide all students with the skills to assist the victims of such behavior. Bullying and aggressive actions do not have a place at St. Joseph School. We will treat others with respect, and we will refuse to tolerate bullying behavior. At the same time we will promote positive characteristics for students to emulate and be proactive about exhibiting responsibility, integrity, compassion, empathy, honesty, self-discipline and cooperation. Parental support is essential to the success of the respect and anti-bullying programs. By definition bullying is unfair and one-sided; it happens when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening or intentionally excluding another person. Examples of bullying behaviors

• Cyber bullying• Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping, pushing, etc.• Stealing or damaging another person’s things• Ganging up on someone• Teasing someone in a hurtful way• Using put-downs, such as making fun of someone’s physical characteristics• Touching or showing private body parts• Spreading rumors about someone• Intentionally excluding someone or trying to get others to exclude someone

Student behaviors that prevent bullying • Treat each other respectfully• Refuse to let others be bullied• Refuse to bully others• Refuse to watch, laugh or join in when someone is being bullied• Report bullying to an adult• Include everyone in activities, especially students often left out

School staff responses to bullying • Supervise students• Watch for signs of bullying and immediately stop it• Reinforce the Steps to Respect curriculum• Take seriously parental concerns about bullying• Respond quickly and sensitively to bullying reports• Assign consequences for bullying based on school discipline code• Provide immediate consequences for retaliation against studentsCyberbullying

Cyberbullying is defined as “willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices. These elements include “willful” (the behavior has to be intentional); “repeated” (bullying reflects a pattern of behavior, generally not just one isolated incident); “harm” (the target must perceive that harm was inflicted); and “computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices” (this, of course, is what differentiates cyberbullying from traditional bullying). A definition of cyberbullying that is easy to remember is “when someone repeatedly makes fun of another person online or repeatedly picks on another person through email or text message or

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when someone posts something online about another person that is hurtful or threatening.” St. Joseph School will not tolerate cyberbullying, even when it occurs outside school hours off school grounds. A threatening online message that is directed at another student, a staff member, or the school is considered a serious violation of school policy and may result in suspension or expulsion.

Search and Seizure In order to ensure the safety of the school, St. Joseph School reserves the right to inspect anything that is brought onto the school campus. All desks, cubbies and lockers are the property of St Joseph School and the school staff and administration reserve the right to inspect these things at all times.

DONATIONS TO THE SCHOOL Often parents wish to make a donation of funds or items directly to a child’s classroom or a specific teacher. It is the school policy that all donations be channeled through the advancement office rather than given directly to a classroom or a teacher.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Emergency procedures are posted in every classroom. Procedures for earthquake drills, fire drills, and lockdowns have been established and will be practiced by the students. When parent volunteers are in the building during a drill, they must participate along with the students.

EMERGENCY CLOSURES We will post our information on the Parent Portal and on KING and KOMO tv stations. We will notify families by text and email. We follow the Seattle Public Schools as far as snow closures and delayed starts. If there is a one-hour delay, students may come in at 9:15 am and class will start at 9:25 am. Even when the school is open, use your own judgment about the conditions in your neighborhood; please do not attempt to drive if it is too dangerous. If school is closed, the Jaguar Club will also be closed. If prolonged power outages occur during the day, parents will be instructed to come to school to pick up their children. In case of emergency at school such as earthquake, please do not go directly to your students and remove them from school. Sign-out procedures must still be followed; all parents need to come to the office first. You may not take neighbors or friends out without written permission. Remember, the school has structural engineers who come quickly and assess the safety of the buildings. It may be safer to leave your child at school. If the buildings are deemed unsafe, students will be moved to the nearest, safest alternative. Please do not call the school; we need to keep the phone lines available for priority use.

FIELD TRIPS Field trips have educational value. They are a privilege, not a right. Students can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or behavioral requirements. Siblings who are not enrolled in St. Joseph School may not go on school field trips. Parents are usually needed as drivers. “Virtus” certification, background checks, and driver information sheet must be on file before you can drive. Students must have properly signed permission slips and emergency forms. No student may go without a signed permission slip form. Faxed permission slips will be accepted. Younger siblings may not accompany parents on field trips.

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New laws require all students under 4’9”, or under 8 years old use a booster seat in automobiles. Children under the age of 13 must ride in the back seat of vehicles. If your child requires medication during a field trip, submit a written request along with the field trip permission form.

FUNDRAISING AND PHILANTHROPIC PROJECTS In order to ensure each campaign’s success and to bring awareness to partner organizations, we do not sponsor or advertise any additional fundraisers or other philanthropic events on campus. Additionally, staff are not obligated to solicit or receive donations for any additional fundraisers or events unless approved by the head of school.

GRADING POLICY Grades kindergarten through four will not be given letter grades. They instead will receive markings as follows:

4 = Exceeding standard 3 = Meeting standard 2 = Approaching standard 1 = Below standard / = Not evaluated at this time

For grades five through eight, the letter grade/grade point/percentage equivalents are as follows:

A  4.0  93-100% B- 2.7 80-82% D+ 1.3 67-69%

A-  3.7  90-92% C+ 2.3 77-79% D 1.0 63-66%

B+ 3.3 87-89% C 2.0 73-76% D- 0.7 60-62%

B 3.0 83-86% C- 1.7 70-72% F 59% and below.

HEALTH SCREENINGS The school nurse schedules vision and hearing screenings. All grades are scheduled for vision screenings. Hearing screenings will only be performed for Kindergarten, and for others upon request from parents, teachers or academic support personnel. Since this is only a screening, you should contact your health care professional to test a student if you have specific concerns. Parents will be notified of any irregularities. It is the parent’s responsibility to check for and treat head lice. We would be happy to help you identify and give options for dealing with lice. Students with live lice will be sent home, students in classes with lice will get a letter requesting parents check at home. Please refer to the Harvard School of Public Health website for dealing with lice: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/headlice.html

HOMEWORK At St. Joseph School, we believe that homework helps students practice and reinforce concepts and skills taught in the classroom. Homework should always be relevant to what is happening in the classroom. Because all students learn differently, homework assignments may be adjusted to meet individual students’ needs. We do not assign homework over long weekends or extended breaks (e.g. Christmas Vacation); projects are never due on the day back from a long weekend or extended break; and major unit tests are never scheduled on Mondays, or the days students return from long weekends or extended breaks.

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Below is more specific information about homework in the primary and middle school classrooms. ● Homework at the primary school level should generally be brief; more specific time

guidelines may be given by the classroom teachers.● In both the primary and middle schools, students should read or be read to and do basic math

practice each night. Math homework at all levels should be geared toward practicing andreinforcing concepts that have already been introduced in class.

● New material should never be introduced in a homework assignment. In the middle school,preparatory reading or other activities may be assigned in advance of a new lesson.

● Especially in the 7th and 8th grades, homework levels may increase periodically, especiallyaround major marking periods (e.g. mid trimester). We believe this is grade level appropriateand it helps prepare our students for the rigors of high school.

● For longer written assignments and projects in the middle school, teachers will make everyeffort to provide ample class time for writing, but it is understood that some work may need tohappen at home.

● If homework levels become problematic for students, parents should speak directly with theteacher to determine an appropriate course of action.

ILLNESS AND INJURY First aid will be given for minor injuries at school. When a child is injured or ill while at school, parents will be notified. It is very important for families to update their profile information in the parent portal as this information is used in case of emergencies. Parents who may be difficult to contact during the school day are asked to please list other adults who may be contacted in the parent portal. Parents should keep ill children at home until they are able to follow the normal schedule. Students cannot remain unsupervised in the classroom during recess, and should not be in the sick room for more than thirty minutes. Students should remain at home for 24 hours after vomiting or fever.

INTERNET POLICY

Technology use policy

St. Joseph School Regulations for Student Acceptable Use of School Technology

The use of technology at St. Joseph School helps support our school mission of creating a faith-centered community that educates and inspires students to reach their God-given potential.” Use of technology is a privilege that carries responsibilities and behavioral expectations consistent with all school rules and policies, including but not limited to those stated in the Handbook. It is understood that members of the St. Joseph School community will use devices and the school’s network in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner at all times. Consequences for violating any condition of this policy may include further education, disciplinary action, or termination of network privileges.

What Constitutes Responsible Use?

Network and system administrators will do their best to maintain a reliable and responsive network. The performance of our system is dependent on the integrity of our users.

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All users are accountable for their actions and are expected to:

● Respect the classroom learning environment. For example, users will comply with theteacher’s directives regarding the use of devices in the classroom and ensure that work issubmitted regardless of device malfunctions or other mechanical failure. Students arepermitted to use just the laptop assigned to them.

● Respect the rights of others. For example, users will comply with all St. Joseph Schoolpolicies regarding digital privacy, harassment, and disorderly conduct.

● Respect the intended usage of resources. For example, users will only access their uniqueaccounts, protect their accounts with passwords where appropriate, and refrain from sendingforged/anonymous communications.

● Respect the legal protection provided by copyright and licensing of programs and data. Forexample, users will acquire appropriate permissions before copying licensed software or otherlegally protected content.

● Respect the integrity of system and network resources. For example, users will refrain frombreaching system security through any means.

What Devices May I Use At St. Joseph School?

All faculty, staff, and students must register each device that accesses the St. Joseph School network resources. Acceptable devices for use at St. Joseph School include registered Chromebooks and IPads. Phones are not allowed to be used during the school day, except with permission from faculty or staff. All cell phones must be stored in the child’s homeroom at the start of the day.

What Privacy Can I Expect?

Network use, storage, Google K-12 Apps for education and communication (including email) are not private. St. Joseph School’s network and school administrators may review files and communications to maintain system security and integrity. Administrators and teachers may examine users’ files, communications, and use when situations warrant. Any inappropriate material or copying/transfer of copyrighted material to or from devices on the St. Joseph School network will result in disciplinary consequences.

What Are Classroom Expectations?

During instructional time, students will use devices at the discretion of the instructor. Students may not record or photograph teachers or students without their permission. In order to ensure that students’ technology use conforms to instructional expectations, instructors have the prerogative to:

● Specify appropriate times of use of technology during class time and monitor for compliance● Specify sound settings, notifications, angle of display, and which apps may be running.● Take disciplinary action when needed.

Social media (ie. Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and Tumblr) and gaming sites are examples of sites blocked by the web blocker server. Students know that accessing social media and gaming sites while on campus is not allowed. Parents with concerns about SJS technology are asked to meet with the administration to address their concerns. The school reserves the right to amend its Acceptable Use of Technology Policy at any time.

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JAGUAR CLUB Jaguar Club is for students on campus before and after school. Before and after school enrichment program provides supervised activities for students on campus from 7:00 am to the beginning of school and after school until 6:00 pm. Students may go to Jaguar Club on a daily, regular or occasional basis. Older students have an environment for homework or study. In the interest of safety, please enroll students who will be on campus during these times in Jaguar Club. Check the FLASH and website for classes offered through Jaguar Club. Only students enrolled in Jaguar Club will be supervised in school or on the playground before or after school.

LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER Academic Support and Advanced Learning

The learning resource center, also known as LRC, is an integral component of the total St. Joseph School educational program. The LRC provides a variety of learning support services to promote student achievement and success. Our goal is to provide responsive support to ensure that all children are achieving their God-given potential. The LRC specialists acknowledge and appreciate the unique and varied learning profiles of our students, including strengths and challenges. They work with the classroom teachers to establish the most effective strategies to provide support and/or challenge for the students in their classrooms. The LRC specialists work with small groups and/or individual students to strengthen skills and support academic success. As students discover how they learn best, they begin to develop effective learning skills and strategies, but more importantly a greater self-awareness and confidence in his or her own ability to learn and grow. The LRC department is comprised of a director, six academic learning specialists, an advanced opportunity learning specialist and a full time counselor. The academic learning specialists collaborate with the classroom teachers, administer screenings and additional assessments as needed, and oversee the flow of communication about a child’s learning needs as they move through the grades. The learning resource specialists and classroom teachers work together to implement recommended classroom accommodations. They also work in tandem with the school counselor to ensure the social and emotional needs of the students are considered when implementing a learning plan. When needed, the LRC specialists also provide referrals for tutors, therapists, educational psychologists, and other outside professionals.

LIBRARY St. Joseph School Library strives to ensure that students and staff are effective users of ideas and information. We aim to encourage our students to be lifelong readers and learners! We open at 8:15 in the morning when the school doors open, and we remain open until 3:30 pm for students to return or check out books. On Tuesdays we close at 2:15 so we can attend faculty meetings. All classes utilize the library. Students may come in at any time to check out a book, research information, or read independently. Teachers work collaboratively with the librarian to schedule research projects and literature-appreciation lessons. Kindergarten through fourth grades have weekly scheduled 30-minute visits. Fifth and sixth grades have 45-minute lessons. Seventh and eighth grades come to the library on an as-needed basis, but have unlimited access to our online resources. Students may study in the library after school only with parent supervision. Books and magazines circulate for one to two weeks, depending on the grade level of the students. There are no fines. Overdue materials must be returned or paid for before report cards are issued, or

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report cards will be withheld. Students with overdue books may not borrow more books until their accounts are cleared. Parents may check out books for their children. We run a physical and a virtual library. Please use the many resources available on the library web page at http://www.stjosephsea.org/academic-life/school-library. Check with Ms. Tucker or Mrs. Woletz for necessary login information. We look forward to seeing you soon. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have comments, concerns, or questions.

LOCKERS Sixth grade students have lockers located in their respective homerooms, which may be used at the discretion of the instructor. Seventh and eighth grade students have lockers on the second floor. They are allowed to use these lockers from 8:15 to 8:25, in between classes, end of the day homeroom, after school until 3:15pm, or as allowed by a teacher. They may not be in the building during lunchtime without a pass. Lockers, desks, cubbies are the property of the school and school officials reserve the right to inspect them at any time.

LOST AND FOUND Valuables, electronics and games should be left at home. Articles that have identification are returned to students. Everything else will be donated each trimester to Francis House. Lost and found is located in the hallway outside the main office, in the gym and outside Jaguar Club. Jewelry, keys and phones are kept inside the office.

LUNCH PROGRAM The school's hot lunch program is provided through P&T Lunchroom Service. P&T make an effort to serve healthy lunches. P&T does not use peanuts or peanut products. However, children with severe, known allergies should bring in their own lunch and snack. On the first Tuesday of each month, P&T Lunchroom Service serves pizza lunch from Zeek’s pizza. Lunch menus are posted on the parent portal. Free and reduced lunch prices are available through P&T Lunchroom Service; please talk with the head of school. Lunch debit cards are normally purchased in advance, although cash may also be used. Lunch cards are kept in the cafeteria. You may fund a lunch card by sending cash or check to the office or directly to the cafeteria. Or register online with http://www.MySchoolBucks.com and you can fund the lunch cards with a credit card. Lunch cards should be paid in advance; students owing money should not use their lunch cards. Students who bring their lunches from home should not have anything in glass containers. If they need more than the usual 20 minutes to eat, they may remain in the cafeteria to finish their lunch.

MEDICATION Parents must give written permission for their children to take any medications at school. They must complete an Authorization for Administration of Oral Medication, signed by both the parent and health care professional. Parents who do not complete this requirement may come to the office and give their child the appropriate medication. The form is available in the school office. A new form must be on file each school year.

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Office staff or the classroom teacher can dispense oral medications if the criteria printed below are met. Students may carry inhalers, if the school nurse approves.

1. The school is in possession of a completed Authorization for Administration of OralMedication form that has signatures of both health care professional and the legal guardian ofthe student.

2. The legal guardian brings the medication to school in the original, labeled, un-expiredcontainer.

3. Parents and front office staff together check the authorization, time, and dosage of themedication.

4. Parents provide split tablets if half tablets are needed.5. Parents accept responsibility to keep their own records regarding expiration dates and refills.

It is the parent's responsibility to provide refills and inform the front office, in writing, of anychanges in the medication plan.

6. Teachers are authorized to carry and give medications on field trips.7. Medication (except in the case of emergencies) will not be given on noon dismissal days

unless the office receives a written request for that day.

PARTIES Classroom parties are not encouraged as a regular practice. Letters from the classroom teacher will tell you how birthdays may be celebrated at a class level. Some grades have a celebration once a month. Birthday treats may be distributed at the discretion of the teacher. Parents must get approval before bringing treats to class. Often there are children with allergies, please be sensitive to their particular restrictions. Balloons, flowers and other presents delivered to school for students will be held in the office until the end of school.

PLAYGROUND Staff members supervise students on the playground. Students are expected to follow the playground rules, respect each other and the supervisors and keep the playground safe. All other students must be directly supervised by a parent or guardian. Please do not allow students to bring inappropriate toys, games, or valuables to school. We are not responsible for expensive electronics, cell phones, or cash that are lost on the playground during recess. Only students registered in Jaguar Club will be supervised on the playground before and after school. All other students must be supervised by an adult.

VERACROSS Veracross is a student information system enabling St. Joseph School teachers to make timely decisions that impact student performance. Teachers will update Veracross addressing attendance, academic progress, and behaviors that promote learning on a daily and weekly basis. Middle School students will have academic updates posted bimonthly at the minimum. Family access to Veracross is assigned through the office manager. Veracross parent access will be closed the week before until the week after report cards for staff to input and upload grades.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION OF STUDENTS Students are promoted once a year in June if they have fulfilled the requirements of the grade. If the teacher and administrator decide that a student needs more time to master a grade level, a recommendation for retention will be made three months prior to the end of the school year. If

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retention occurs, the school will accommodate that student's enrollment, even if that means exceeding the class size limit guidelines. If a student is allowed to advance to the next grade against the professional judgment of the administration and teachers, parents will be required to sign a statement that they know such placement is against the advice of professionals and that they accept full responsibility for the consequences of this placement.

SCHOOL RECORDS When a student transfers out of the school, all educational records may be photocopied for release to the receiving school if withdrawal procedures have been fulfilled. These records should be made available only to officials, teachers and specialized personnel in the receiving school who have a legitimate educational interest in the records. A copy of educational records may be requested from the main office. According to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Buckley Amendment), all parents, even those who do not have custody of their children, have rights of access to records. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the academic records and to other school-related information regarding the child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with an official copy of the court order. St. Joseph School will release all records once a family’s financial accounts are settled.

STUDENT PROGRESS Several means have been established through which teachers communicate with parents to share with them how their children are progressing in school. In addition to the means listed below, individual teachers and parents may establish other ways as needs arise.

• Veracross is the primary way SJS communicates student academic progress to families.Parents and guardians should check the parent portal regularly.

• Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences: These conferences are scheduled during the first andsecond trimesters of the year. Fall conferences are mandatory for all families. The first weekof sign-ups will be for those with multiple conferences.

• Appointments: Parents may schedule a private conference with the teacher at any time duringthe school year. Please make an appointment ahead of time to see a teacher or administrator.We want to give our undivided attention to such conferences and that is difficult to do whenparents just “drop by”.

• Progress Reports: If a student is in danger of receiving a D or an F at mid-trimester, parentswill be notified by email by the teacher.

• Report Cards: Report cards will be published three times during the year, at the end of eachtrimester.

STUDENT SERVICE PROGRAM The heart of the mission, philosophy, and SLEs of St. Joseph School is to reach out to the greater community by giving of our time, talent, and treasure. In the spirit of this mission, the student service program involves each student in social outreach and community service programs. A calendar of social outreach projects is coordinated each year. Mission collections take place in each homeroom on a continuous basis. In addition, students are invited to serve their school and parish community throughout the year. Examples of areas in which students serve are: preparing for assemblies, hosting guests, or acting as peer tutors.

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Seventh and eighth grade students participate in service outreach one day each trimester. In small advisory groups they go out into the community. Francis House, Pike Place Senior Center, Ronald McDonald House, and Early Childhood Education Center are a few of the opportunities for outreach.

STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM The student support team is a cooperative effort to coordinate services providing academic, emotional, and social support to students and parents. It is comprised of the learning resource specialists, school counselor, Directors of the primary and middle schools, classroom teachers and, if needed, the director of Jaguar Club. Student support team objectives include but are not limited to the following:

• To identify students who are at risk academically, socially, emotionally and/or physically.• To provide a forum for school personnel to share expertise, to disseminate information, to

develop intervention strategies for student success, and to develop school wide programs tobenefit all students.

• To be a resource to staff and parents in developing and implementing successful learningand behavior strategies.

TEXTBOOKS/ CLASSROOM NOVELS All of the novels that have been selected for use in the St. Joseph curriculum result from extensive research and consultation with Directors. Professional educators have taken a judicious approach in the integration of reading materials into the program that address relevant and stimulating stories while addressing the multi-faceted issue of diversity. A conscious attempt to provide positive role models while intellectually stimulating the students is at the heart of our novel selections. If a parent finds a book objectionable, they should first discuss it with the teacher. If the issue is not resolved, it should then be discussed with the appropriate director. If the issue is still not resolved, the parent may write a letter to the head of school stating concerns. The head of school will respond with a final decision.

TRAFFIC AND PARKING PROCEDURES The purpose of transportation procedures is to ensure the safety of our children and reduce congestion during the busy drop-off and pick-up times. With over 600 children being dropped off and picked up in a short time frame, it is imperative that all follow the traffic and parking procedures listed below:

No double-Parking on 18th Ave. Drivers may not drop off or pick up students on 18th Ave unless their car is parked in a legal parking space right next to the curb. No double-parking or stopping. Also, do not drop off or pick up in the traffic circle at 18th & Roy or within 30 feet of the corners (see posted signs). Students coming from or going to cars parked on the west side of 18th Ave must use the crosswalks at either end of the block to cross 18th Ave.

No cell phones while driving. Unless they are either parked or dialing 911, drivers may not use cell phones on the school driveways or in the parking lot.

Entering the parking lot. Use the entry drive on 19th Ave across from Tully's Coffee. This is a one-way drive (entry only). In the afternoon, do not enter the parking lot until after 2:30 p.m. (1:45 p.m. on Tuesdays). PLEASE NOTE: We get complaints about backups on 19th Avenue caused bycars waiting to enter the parking lot. City law prohibits blocking by cars waiting to turn left betweenintersections. If the entry driveway is full of cars, and if that line is not moving, please drive aroundthe block and try again, rather than delay 19th Ave traffic indefinitely. Circling the block will allow

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the backed-up traffic to clear safely (instead of trying to speed around you), and the line should open up by the time you circle back.

Two Options in Parking Lot. Drivers have two choices at the top of the entrance drive: 1. Quick Drop-Off and Pick Up. Keep to the right to make a quick drop-off or pick- up along the

curb next to the school. There are two lanes: the curbside lane is for stopping to allow students to hopin or out; the outer lane is for leaving after drop- off/pick-up or for moving forward to an empty spotin the curb lane. For drop-off and pick-up, pull as far forward as you can without entering the exitdrive (between the gym and school) or the crosswalk. Please make sure your students are ready tohop out quickly, and do not leave your car unattended. If you need to help your students into the school building, park in the lot. 2. Parking in the Lot. To park in the lot, make a hard left turn at the top of the ramp. Unless otherwise directed, park according to the parking order diagram found on the school website. For Rows 1-3 and 5, start each row at the far south end (toward the gym), and work northward toward the Church. Please do not skip spaces.

Leaving the Parking Lot. Please do not leave cars parked in the lot after 8:30 a.m. Exit to the south via the driveway between the gym and school, into Roy Street. During peak times, if an immediate left turn on Roy is impossible due to a back up, turn right on Roy to keep traffic moving behind you. Likewise, if you are stuck at the corner of Roy and 19th and northbound traffic on 19th is backed up, consider turning right on 19th instead of left (or continuing straight across on Roy); this will really help clear traffic stacking up behind you. It is critical that we prevent gridlock in the exit.

Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open. Above all else, pay attention to what you and other drivers are doing. Pay attention to parking attendants and crossing guards. Drive SLOWLY. Use your mirrors. Watch for those white "backing up" lights. Remind your students to: look for moving traffic before opening car doors; open and close car doors with care; WALK, never run, during drop-off and pick-up; be watchful of moving cars; and use the crosswalks. Only students registered in Jaguar Club will be supervised on the playground before and after school. An adult must supervise all other students.

UNIFORM POLICY Uniforms have been an integral part of who we are as a St. Joseph community since 1907. Wearing a St. Joseph uniform is a symbol of great pride for St. Joseph School. Students are expected to be in uniform during the school day. Uniforms are to be kept in good condition – no rips or tears. There are differences between the uniform policies of the Primary school (K-4) and the Middle school (5-8). The Administration and the Parent Board have approved this uniform policy. Please note the uniform policy will be enforced and your support is greatly appreciated.

Primary School (Kindergarten through Grade 4) Blouse or shirt

White blouse or “polo” style shirt or turtleneck ● Must have a collar (turtleneck is okay)● Long or short sleeves● No lace or ruffles

Pants navy chino ● Tailored● Full-length● No “skinny” or “cargo” pants or “elastic ankle” pants● No stretch pants or sweatpants

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Shorts navy chino ● No sweat shorts● No shorter than 3 inches above the top of the kneecap

Skorts or Skirts

Navy or “White Plaid” ● No shorter than 3 inches above the top of the kneecap (Beginning with

the 2018-2019 school year, the “Top of the Knee“ is the only one forpurchase through Lands’ End)

Tights or leggings

● Tights or leggings in white or navy only may be worn under the uniform.Leggings may not be worn in place of uniform pants.

Jumper “White Plaid” or navy (available through Lands’ End) Sweatshirt Official St. Joseph navy sweatshirt only

● Crew neck or hoody (available through Lands’ End)● Discontinued St. Joseph sweatshirt is okay

Sweater Navy sweater ● Cardigan (button or zipper) or V-neck

Middle School (Grades 5 through 8) Blouse or shirt White blouse, or white or evergreen “polo” style shirt or turtleneck,

● Must have a collar (turtleneck is okay)● Long or short sleeves● No lace or ruffles

Pants Solid Khaki Chino ● Full-length● No “skinny” or “cargo” or “elastic ankle” pants● No stretch pants or sweatpants

Shorts Solid Khaki Chino ● No sweat shorts● No “cargo” shorts● No shorter than 3 inches above the top of the kneecap

Skorts or Skirts

“White Plaid” ● No shorter than 3 inches above the top of the kneecap (Beginning with

the 2018-2019 school year, the “Top of the Knee“ is the only one forpurchase through Lands’ End)

Tights or leggings

● Tights or leggings in white or navy only may be worn under the uniform.Leggings may not be worn in place of uniform pants.

Sweatshirt Official St. Joseph evergreen sweatshirt only ● Crew neck or hoody (available through Lands’ End)

Sweater Evergreen sweater ● Cardigan (button or zipper) or V-neck

(Available through Lands’ End)

All Grades (Kindergarten through Grade 8) Socks ● No specific requirements

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Shoes ● On PE days, students should wear athletic shoesHats ● May only be worn outside of the buildings

Miscellaneous General Guidelines (Apply to both uniform and free dress days.)

● Uniform clothing should be in good repair and fit properly, thereshould be no holes, tears or other signs of excessive wear● All clothing is correctly sized; not too tight or extremely loose● Pants and skirts must be hemmed● No visible marks, drawings, or tattoos● Jewelry is discreet, only ears may be pierced and only stud earringsmay be worn at school, no hoops or dangling earrings● Hair is natural color and must be kept clean and neat. Unusualhairstyles are not considered acceptable

Boy’s hair cannot be longer than shirt collar ● Tank tops and spaghetti straps must be covered by an appropriateshirt● Shirts are long enough to cover the midriff, no exposed skin at thestomach or deep, low cut necklines● Undershirts are white, no visible writing or pictures, undershirtsmust be tucked in● Names should be written in uniforms● Shoes are worn at school; flip-flops, slippers, platforms andbackless shoes are not acceptable● Makeup and accessories should be moderate and appropriate forschool

Mass attire ● Full uniform (includes sweater or sweatshirt)Birthday Free Dress

● You are entitled to free dress on your birthday● Summer birthdays are celebrated on a specially designated day inJune

Out of Uniform ● If a student has repeated dress code violations he/she will lose freedress privilege on the first Tuesday of the month● If a student needs to be out of uniform for a serious reason, she/heshould bring a note from her/his parent/guardian stating the reason

Lands’ End: St. Joseph website, www.stjosephsea.org, and look under quick links or www.landsend.com/school or 1.800.468.2222 (preferred school number 900031576)

USE OF SPACE All requests for reserving a room must be referred to facilities. Only requests pertaining to St. Joseph School activities may be made. Requests should be made well in advance, at least two weeks, to avoid schedule overlapping of shared spaces.

VACCINATIONS All students are required by law to have a WA State Department of Health Certificate Immunization Status form on file in the office. If parents select not to vaccinate their child, the form with a parent and healthcare professional signature for exemption is required. Students not having the correct forms on file will be asked to stay home until the form is in.

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Parents can check with the school nurse if they have any questions. The nurse is in the office Wednesdays, 206-329-3260 x 240 or you can leave a message for her anytime.

VISITORS All visitors must enter and depart the school through the main entrance and sign in/out. A name badge shows that you have checked in at the office. Please do not open locked doors for anyone, but direct them to the doors closest to the office. Students who have previously entered St. Joseph School who would like to return for a visit are welcome to join a class for lunch and lunch recess with a director’s approval.

VOLUNTEERING Parents are asked not to bring siblings or friends into the classroom when they are volunteering, or along on field trips when they are driving or chaperoning. The open house is an opportunity for siblings and friends to visit the classrooms. The Archdiocese of Seattle requires that all staff, substitutes, coaches and volunteers with ongoing unsupervised contact with minors be certified in the Virtus program. There is an initial class required for certification. More information is available from https://www.virtusonline.org

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