MISSION STATEMENTAscension Catholic School has as its mission the teaching of the Christian faith in the Roman Catholic tradition, fostering academic excellence in all areas of study, encouraging discipline based on respect and responsibility, and developing a sense of service and social justice within our multicultural community.

STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHYAscension Catholic School is dedicated to the development of academic excellence within the structured, disciplined and Christian-oriented environment. It aims to prepare its students for becoming intelligent and responsible adults. As a member of the Ascension Catholic School community, we believe the students learn to respect each other and to accept responsibility for their actions. They come to recognize that each one's actions effect the total community. They are taught compassion and tolerance, social, political, religious, and cultural differences within the community. The Ascension Catholic School administration and faculty are dedicated to meeting the needs of the individual students.

PASTOR AND BOARDFr. Dale Korogi is the Church of the Ascension Parish Pastor. The Parish Administrator is Patricia Stromen. Their offices are located in the Rectory next to the Church of the Ascension on Bryant Avenue N. and can be contacted at 612-529-9684.

The Ascension Catholic School board is called the Friends of Ascension Board. It is advisory to the Pastor. It is comprised of local business partners.

ASCENSION SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS AND DIRECTORS

NORTHSIDE ACHIEVEMENT ZONEAscension Catholic School is a key partner in the Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ), which has been awarded with one of five Promise Neighborhood implementation grants in the nation. The NAZ Promise Neighborhood is a collaboration of over 50 organizations and schools who work with children and families in a geographic area, or “Zone” of North Minneapolis to build a culture of achievement so that all youth graduate college ready.

Families and children move through a “cradle to career” pipeline that provides comprehensive support from pre-natal through age 18. Working together, the NAZ collaborative provides services that are critical to supporting the success of North Minneapolis families and children.

If you have been identified as a NAZ family, you will receive support from NAZ partners with families who live in a geographic “Zone” of North Minneapolis to prepare kids for college, beginning at birth. By enrolling in NAZ, parents/caregivers will receive one-on-one support, guidance and inspiration from a NAZ Connector “family coach” who’ll help you create a goal plan, find resources to make it happen, and then stick with it. Ascension and NAZ firmly believe

PrincipalVice PrincipalDean of StudentsChoir Director/Music TeacherYouth Center Director

Dorwatha WoodsLuEllen RichmondBenito MatiasStephanie IsolaRichard Eddy

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every scholar can graduate from high school, ready for college, and are willing to do “whatever it takes” to achieve academic success.

A NAZ Family Connector and Academic Navigator will be located at Ascension Catholic School during school hours, including after school programming time.

NAZ AND ASCENSION CATHOLIC SCHOOL VALUES

These values are the foundation of our work with families across the collaborative:Our Children Will Succeed. We believe that all children, including children in the Zone can and will succeed in school, in college, and in life—regardless of family background or past performance in school. Our actions with children match this belief.Families are Leaders. Every Northside family has assets and strengths. We believe a culture of achievement can only be built from within the community—one family at a time. We partner with families to set and achieve their goals, and bolster their belief in themselves, and the expectation that their children will go to college.High Expectations with High Supports. Extremely ambitious expectations are set for all including NAZ students, families, partner organizations, and staff. The accountability for these outcomes is rigorous—but so are our supports. Every NAZ parent and student receives one-on-one support through our “high-touch” process, connecting them with programs and services across our partner organizations. All NAZ partners will support each other in an ongoing continuous improvement process.Driven by Data. Our resources are dedicated toward measurable outcomes for children and families. Success is gauged by results for children and families, not programs and organizations. NAZ partners work together to build evidence-based solutions that drive measurable improvements with NAZ families. We track the progress of each child toward kindergarten-readiness, grade-level achievement, and college readiness. If the data shows that we are not effective, we will revise our plans until we get it right.Relationships are the “Work”. We are creating transformative change built on strong relationships. We first work to change ourselves. Then, through our relationships, we invite change among organizations, families, scholars, and systems. Together we increase expectations, break down silos, and build accountability and alignment. We operate under the assumption of good intent in our interactions with each other, especially as we work through difficult issues together.Collaboration Creates Prosperity. NAZ partners built one system of support for families. This system is made up of many equal partners who are committed to working together for the success of NAZ children, including: parents, organizations, schools, funders, government, and faith institutions. We believe that our collaboration will have more than enough momentum to reach a tipping point of sustainable community transformation and prosperity. Diversity and Cultural Responsiveness. As we scale up to partner with more than 1,000 families with 3,000 children, we will be reflective of the diversity in our community—while targeting resources where the achievement gap is greatest. The rich diversity of our families is an asset to be woven into our processes and systems of support/service. NAZ staff and partners will embed cultural responsiveness within our work.

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Starting Early and Staying Long-Term. We work side by side with NAZ families from before birth through college, providing comprehensive support designed to impact a child’s education and life trajectory. We support the success of the whole family.

PARENT WORK HOURSParent Work Hours are required for every Ascension Catholic School Family. Parents or family members aged 18 years or older may work off these 20 hours of service per year of school. Tasks to do are listed in the weekly Ascension Catholic School Newsletter. Each family keeps track of hours worked throughout the school year on the Verification Form provided by the school. The Verification Form must be turned in to Mrs. Richmond by the first day in May. Parents who choose not to work the required 20 Parent Work Hours of service will be billed $5.00 for every hour not completed. (NAZ families, as family leaders are also asked to contribute 20 Parent Work Hours annually to the school.)

BACKGROUND CHECKSAll visitors including parents and other family members must have background checks conducted through the Church of the Ascension Parish HR office before becoming involved in the activity of the school. We take seriously the safety of our students and follow the safety procedures of the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis. The background check results will be kept confidential between the HR representative, the school administrators and the person who submitted to the background check procedure. In addition a program called Virtus is required. It is a two to three hour class that emphasizes how we keep our children safe. The information for the Virtus training can be obtained in the Parish HR office as well. It is our hope that every family will understand our dedication to keeping all of our students safe.

PROCEDURES FOR VISITORS ENTERING THE SCHOOLParents are welcome to visit Ascension Catholic School during the day. Please ring the buzzer to the left of the back middle door. When the buzzer is answered, state your name and your student’s name and grade. When verified, you will be buzzed into the school building. All parents and visitors must stop into the school office for a pass before heading to any area in the school building. If a parent wants to speak with a teacher or help in the classroom, a meeting must be set with the teacher in advance. No teacher can step away from classroom duties to confer with a parent during school hours. If a substitute teacher is in the classroom, we will inform parents and ask that they visit when the regular classroom teacher is present. Parents without completed background checks will not be allowed to visit classrooms when students are present.

MONDAY FOLDERSThe first day of every week, students will be given their own Monday Folder to bring home. Parents should sign the folder, take out the contents and send it back the next day of school. Parents will always find an Ascension Catholic School Newsletter to read for discovery of the events happening in the school. Parents may find notes from the teacher, the student’s graded work from the previous week, homework assignments, and much more. Please pay close attention to the Monday Folder. It is the Ascension Catholic School way of keeping parents/guardians well informed.

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PAYMENT OF FEESTuition, Latchkey, Youth Center, and Athletic fees are paid through TADS online. All other fees must be paid using an envelope designating what is being paid for (Breakfast, Lunch, Athletics, etc.) and how much is being paid for each category. Checks that bounce will cause the family to pay an extra $20.00 fee plus, no more checks will be accepted from that family for the remainder of the school year. Athletic fees must be paid before the beginning of the athletic season. Latchkey fees should be paid quarterly. Tuition should be paid monthly.(NAZ families are supported through Ascension and NAZ funding. NAZ families do have a responsibility for breakfast/lunch fees and athletic fees if the student joins a sport.)

COLD WEATHER PROCEDUREUnless the weather is extremely severe, all children are expected to go outside at scheduled times. Request for exceptions are difficult to honor because teachers by law, are entitled to duty-free periods. Please check to see that your child’s clothing is sufficient for weather conditions. Boots or overshoes, or changes of shoes are to be available everyday during the winter months and rainy days.

The Specific Policy Regarding When to Send Children Outside on Cold Days:1. If it is below 0 degrees, students will remain inside.2. If its above 0 degrees, students will go outside.3. If the wind-chill factor is 0 or lower the students will remain inside.

Listen to WCCO Radio and TV for school closings. Because of shared busing, if Minneapolis Public Schools close, due to poor weather, Ascension Catholic School automatically closes. On a rare occasion, we close otherwise when dangerous weather exists. Listen to WCCO Radio by 5:45AM.

TORNADO/SEVERE STORMSIn the event of a tornado warning, students and teachers will move, in silence, and in an orderly manner to the hallways. If the warning would come at dismissal time, the students will be held until the all clear announcement is given.

STUDENT HEALTH CONFIDENTIALITY Minnesota Statutes 13.32, subd. 2 identifies health data regarding students as private data.

Private student health data is not to be disseminated to the public or to staff without the strict observance of data privacy rights and pursuant to applicable statutory procedures.

The school recognizes that the improper and unauthorized release of health information regarding a student with an infectious disease has the potential to cause irremediable harm and will be considered a violation to this policy.Under emergency condition, the school may release private student data to appropriate parties if such data is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or others.

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To determine whether release of private data, without written authorization, is justified, the following factors will be considered:

1. The seriousness of the threat to the health or safety of the students or others.2. The need for the data to meet the emergency.3. If the parties to whom disclosure is made are in a position to meet the emergency.4. The extent to which time is of the essence in dealing with the emergency.

HOW TO EASILY CONTACT A TEACHERCall 612-521-3600 and go to into the teacher voicemail system. Follow the directions given and leave your message. This way, teachers can easily return your call after class hours. Typically, teachers are finished teaching and dismissal duty by 2:15PM. That is when most will choose to return calls unless they have a Faculty Meeting following dismissal. Please be aware that on occasion and for specific reasons, the Principal may return your call instead of the designated teacher.

WHO TO CALL:

Call Mrs. Richmond for concerns about: Tuition Billing/ Financial Aidx112 Parent Work Hours

Parent ParticipationCurriculum

LatchkeyTitle Programs

Assessment

Call Mr. DePass for concerns about: Transportation/ Bussing Information x110 Breakfast/ Lunch Fees

Free Priced School Meals

Call Mr. Matias for concerns about: Discipline x114 NAZ Academy

Student Behavioral Concerns

Call Ms. Woods for concerns about: Financial Aid x111 School Policy and Procedure

Child Development and BehaviorPersonnel- Teachers, Administrators, Staff

School Schedule NAZ

Any other concerns you may have

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NON- DISCRIMINATION POLICY Ascension Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, religion, race, national and ethnic origin, in its admission or educational policies, Athletics, Choir, afterschool programs, or other school administered programs.

ADMISSION POLICYChildren applying for entrance to Kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September 1st of that school year.

Pre-registration is held in January. The date is announced in the Church bulletin and in the School Newsletter.

All new students are on probationary status for six weeks in which all previous school and health records must arrive at school. Also, students are evaluated as to whether they follow school values socially, emotionally, and in their schoolwork. If this does not go smoothly, the student is asked to leave.

It is required that children have a physical exam before entering Kindergarten and 7th grade. The Ascension Catholic School needs verification of that medical exam. Health records must be kept up-to-date. All immunizations required by state law must be completed before a child enters Kindergarten at Ascension Catholic School.

SEXUAL HARASSMENTSexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct and/or other verbal or physical conduct or communication. Sexual violence is a physical act of aggression that includes a sexual act or sexual purpose.

Ascension Catholic School shall maintain a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment and sexual violence. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student or employee to harass a student or an employee through conduct or communication of a sexual nature. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student or employee to be sexually violent to a student or employee.

Ascension Catholic School will act to investigate all complaints, formal and informal, verbal or written, of sexual harassment or sexual violence and to discipline any student or employee who sexually harasses or is sexually violent to a student or employee of the school. This investigation will take place with the Principal in conjunction with the Pastor and Parish Administrator. On occasion when deemed necessary by the Pastor, Parish Administrator and/ or the Principal, the Minneapolis Police Department will become involved.

Bullying PreventionBullying prevention is everyone’s responsibility.

Bullying is a behavior that: Hurts or harms another person physically or emotionally. The target has difficulty stopping and struggles to defend themselves.

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Exhibits an imbalance of power, when the student doing the bullying has more physical, emotional, or social power than the target.

At Ascension Catholic School we work to educate staff, families, and students on ways to identify and stop bullying.

ASCENSION CATHOLIC SCHOOL YOUTH PROGRAM Students in grade 6th through 8th grade may participate in this after-school programming. The Youth Center is open Monday-Friday from 2:00PM – 5:30PM with designated hours for tutoring, Homework Help, games, creative arts, Junior Achievement, and much more. Registration for the program is $50.00. Families will get billed for another $150.00 during the school year in $50.00 increments for a total of $200.00.

NAZ LATCHKEY ACADEMY AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMAscension Catholic School is an Anchor Partner in the NAZ Out-of-School Time network solution, and we are expanding our successful Latchkey program to serve K through 8th grade NAZ scholars enrolled at Ascension Catholic School. NAZ Latchkey Academy offers an extended learning program designed to support grade-level attainment in reading and math for every scholar. The program runs weekly from 2:00pm- 4:00pm, on scheduled days and includes a snack and transportation home. This opportunity is free of cost to all NAZ enrolled families.

DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00AM Teachers are in the building. The Main Office opens for business.

7:15-7:30AM Buses arrive. Breakfast is served in the Cafeteria.

7:30AM Students line up outside when the bell rings (if the temperature is above 0 degrees Fahrenheit).At all times upon arrival, students are not to leave the school grounds. Supervision of the arrival area begins at 7:15AM. Before that time, there is no supervision so we strongly recommend that parents not leave their children unattended.

10:30-10:50AM Morning Recess for K-3rd

11:00- 11:20AM Morning Recess for 4th-7th

11AM-12: 30PM Three half hour lunch periods per day

1:45PM Dismissal

1:55PM Buses leave Ascension and head to Hall School. Ascension students must board buses only at Ascension Catholic School!

Remember that teachers are in the building until 3:00PM. If you want to meet with one of them, please make an appointment. The Main Offices is open until 3:00PM daily.

4:15PM NAZ Latchkey Academy buses leave the school.

5:30PM Latchkey and Youth Center Closes

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Any student picked up from Latchkey after 5:30PM incurs a $3.00 per minute late fee and may not attend Latchkey the following day if this has occurred more than once.

Students picked up late from the Youth Center may not attend the next day.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Daily attendance is critical to academic achievement. It is our goal to work with students, families and communities to support regular school attendance and improve academic achievement.

Students are expected to be in school every day school is open, and arrival and pick-up should be prompt. We do ask that parents call the school by 7:30AM whenever the child is absent, to give a reason for the absence. If we don’t hear from the home, our office will call to get the reason for the absence. If there is no phone in the home, send a note with the child the next day or with a sibling the same day. Students missing more than 10 consecutive days without reason will be withdrawn. If you call to give us a reason, a note is not necessary. If the student has to come to school late, send a note with the student the day before. No student should arrive after 8:30AM, unless the delay was a doctor’s appointment. No child will be accepted late without a note or phone call from a parent. A student with excessive tardy arrivals will be withdrawn.

If a student is absent due to an illness for more than 3 days, a written note from your child’s health care provider must be provided.If a student will be absent for a family activity up to 5 days from school, pre-approval must be obtained. To get pre-approval from the school, you must do the following:At least 10 days before leaving, request permission from the school for your child to be gone for a family activity. Before leaving:

Get your child's homework and agree that your child will finish the homework. Make sure that your child will not be gone for important tests like the MCA, OLPA,

NWEA or Math. Agree in writing that your child will miss no more than 5 days of school. Before leaving, get approval from the Principal

Absence and tardy– Teachers will signal the office if a student has 3 unexcused absences in a school year.

Excessive unexcused tardiness Missing 5 hours of class within 10 school days = 1 absence

Attendance PolicyIt's the Law! Minnesota law states that all students are required to attend school from age 7, or when they enter kindergarten (whichever comes first) until they are 18 years old. A student's failure to attend school may lead to legal action for the parents/guardians and the student.

We do follow the Minnesota truancy guidelines for school absences and school tardiness. Under Minnesota law, children must go to school every day from the time they are enrolled until they are eighteen (18) years old, unless they are legally withdrawn at age 16 or 17. Absences may be excused because of illness, religious observance, family emergency, or funeral. Absences are

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presumed to be unexcused. A student, who has a least three unexcused absences from school for a full day, is considered a “continuing truant” under the law. (Minn. Stat. 260A.0, Subd.3) A parent or guardian must compel the attendance of a child at school pursuant to Minn. Stat. 120A.22. Failure to meet this obligation may result in legal action.

We do not wish to have any parent brought into court for “educational neglect”.

Please make sure your child arrives at school every day the school is open by 7:30AM.

We are not a day care center! Students must be picked up from school on time after the school day ends no later than 2:00PM.

Any child left at school beyond this time will cause the parents to be charged a baby-sitting fee of $1.00 per minute.

For safety and liability reasons, no child will be allowed to wait outside the school building.

At 2PM, all left waiting students will be brought to wait by the School Main Office and parents will need to come into the school to pick them up.

UNIFORM POLICY9

Uniforms must be purchased at:Donald’s Uniform Store 972 Payne Ave., St. Paul, MN 55130 651-776-2723

We do have used uniforms for a much-reduced price in the school’s Main Office. Sizes vary.

GIRLS UNIFORMThe girls must wear a gray skirt with a white knit polo shirt (short or long sleeve) and a red (lipstick color) sweater vest, pullover, or cardigan. Socks must be white or red with no designs and must cover at least 2” above the anklebone. If pants are worn in cold weather they must be removed in the school unless they are the designated black stretch knit leggings that can be purchased at Donald’s. If you have a question, please ask it before you purchase. We want to make sure your child is properly attired in the regulation uniform.

ALL GIRLS’ SKIRT HEMS MUST TOUCH THE MIDDLE OF THE KNEE ALL THE WAY AROUND. Therefore, it is important to hem the skirt longer at the beginning of the school year to account for growth that the student makes in the school year. Skirts must also fit loosely around the hips so that it flows correctly.

Junior High girls (grades 7 and 8 only) have a gray twill pants option and they may wear flesh colored stockings instead of socks if they desire. The gray twill uniform pants can be purchased at Donald’s as well

BOYS UNIFORMS

The boys must wear gray pants with a white knit polo shirt (short or long sleeve) and a red (lipstick color) sweater vest, pullover, or cardigan. These must be purchased at Donald’s Uniform Store.

BOYS AND GIRLS UNIFORMS

Athletic shoes are the best option for school for all students.Note:

Boots- fashion boots, outdoor boots, moccasin boots, will not be allowed to be worn in the school building.

Athletic shoes that come up past two inches above the ankle are NOT acceptable. STUDENTS, WHO COME TO SCHOOL OUT OF UNIFORM, WILL BE SENT HOME. UNIFORMS MUST BE KEPT CLEAN. SHIRTS MUST BE TUCKED IN. NO OVERSIZED OR “SAGGED” PANTS NO TIGHT PANTS NO FACIAL JEWELERY OR DYED HAIR ALLOWED. Absolutely no make-up is allowed on students at Ascension Catholic School.

PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP POLICY

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In the event a disagreement occurs between a parent and a member of the school staff regarding the educational programs of a child, the following procedure will be used to reach an acceptable working relationship:

1. Meeting: Teacher-Student-Parent2. Meeting: Teacher –Student- Parent- Principal

If the above procedure does not bring an amicable solution, the parents will be asked to remove the child.

Ascension Catholic School strives to be a peaceful academic community and we believe scholar success relies heavily on a strong, positive relationship between parents and teachers, and will thrive on open communication that supports the scholar’s academic achievement. It is important that parents develop a strong rapport with teachers to support their scholar. Parents may request conferences with teachers anytime, and we encourage all parents to maintain regular contact with teachers.

Parents and teachers are expected to communicate any concerns by first meeting together with the scholar. If there is any additional support needed for a NAZ family, the family’s NAZ Connector and/or Academic Navigator, and Principal will work to support the family to address concerns and support a positive outcome.

It is expected that all family/staff interactions are respectful and calm. Ascension Catholic School has a zero tolerance policy for disrespectful or abusive language and/or behavior for anyone in the Ascension community. TUITION & FEE PAYMENTS

All tuition fee payments are nonrefundable, with one exception; if the student dies. Please pay fees in a timely manner. Parents will be invoiced once per month by TADS, our tuition collection company. If a challenge arises; please call the Principal or Vice Principal immediately so that adjustments can possibly be made.

If fees are not paid by the end of the school year, the final Report Card will be withheld. Families of 8th graders that have outstanding balances will forfeit their child’s participation in the Graduation ceremony.

If a check bounces, the family may not use checks for payments for the rest of the school year.

Parents accepting Financial Aid for their children’s school fees must commit fully to participating in the Marathon and Kiddie Karnival fundraisers as a sign of support of the Ascension Catholic School. This includes NAZ families.

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SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS & SUPPORTS (SWPBIS or PBIS)

What is school-wide positive behavioral supports? The application of evidence-based strategies and systems to assist schools: to increase academic performance to increase safety to decrease problem behavior and to establish a positive school culture

Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports is a process for teaching scholars appropriate behavior and providing the supports necessary to sustain that behavior. PBIS is not a curriculum - it is a framework for systems to identify needs, develop strategies, and evaluate practice toward success. PBIS is a framework for enhancing adoption and implementation of a continuum of evidenced-based interventions to achieve academically and behaviorally important outcomes for all scholars. PBIS is defined by four inter-related elements: Data: refers to information about where we are now and have been (i.e., baseline data), and

what we know about something (evidence). This information is used to define where we want to go (outcomes), what we might use to get there (practices), and what we need to be effective and efficient at what we do.

Outcomes: refers to what we want scholars to learn and do well, both academically and behaviorally. The desired outcomes are derived from data, and guide decisions about what practices to select for achieving those outcomes.

Practices: refers to what instructional and behavioral interventions, strategies, programs, curricula, etc. are used to achieve a stated outcome. In addition, the selection of practice is guided by the evidence (data) that are available to demonstrate the effectiveness of a practice and the resources and supports needed for accurate and effective implementation (systems).

Systems: refers to the supports, resources, training, etc. that implementers would need to maximize their implementation of a given practice to achieve a specific outcome.

A defining feature of PBIS is a prevention logic that is organized as a continuum of support, most often in three tiers:

Primary Tier (I): School-wide practices and systems for preventing the development and occurrences of problem behavior for all scholars across all settings.

o Universal interventions, all settings, all scholars, preventive, proactive and should produce desired outcomes for 80-90% of scholars.

Secondary Tier (II): More specialized and intensive practices and systems for supporting scholars whose behaviors have been documented as unresponsive to Tier I practices and systems.

o Targeted group interventions, some scholars (at-risk), high efficiency, rapid response and should only be needed for approximately 5-10% of scholars.

Tertiary Tier (III): Highly specialized and individualized practices and systems for supporting scholars whose behaviors have been documented as unresponsive to Tiers I & II practices and systems.

o Intensive individual interventions for individual scholars, assessment-based, and durable procedures.

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DISCIPLINARY POLICY AND PROCEDUREAscension Catholic School does believe in using discipline at school to correct undesirable behavior. We do not believe in the use of corporal punishment. All school personnel work together to solve discipline problems within the school day. Expulsion is used only in extreme cases. A child will be suspended for fighting (any negative physical contact with another person). Disciplinary action will be taken when a student has done the following:

1. Use of drugs (controlled substances), alcohol, or cigarettes.2. Showing a lack of respect for any member of the school staff or students.3. Fighting, bullying, stealing, destroying, or damaging school or personal property.4. Skips school, leaves school during the day without permission from the School Office,

leaves the classroom without permission from the teacher. 5. Unacceptable behavior in Church, on the bus, classroom, in the cafeteria, or on the

playground.6. Being out of uniform.7. Not bringing in excuses for absences if the parent or guardian did not call the school.8. Use of violent weapon against another, in school or away from school; suspected gang

affiliation.9. Other actions which the school personnel or Principal decides is unacceptable behavior.

A child’s visits to the Principal’s Office for discipline will be documented. Upon the 3 rd visit, the child will be suspended. Three suspensions will result in an expulsion from Ascension Catholic School.

An established team of educators comprised of teachers, the Principal, and NAZ staff if it’s a NAZ family will team with the parents around specific individual student challenges and direct the remediation process. The NAZ Connector will partner with the parent/s to support the scholar’s success. The Academic Navigator will offer direct scholar support and follow up communication with Ascension staff. If the scholar continues to struggle, Ascension staff is dedicated to finding a school to meet their needs, and will work with the parent/s to find a suitable school.

A student not in a designated NAZ family will have his/her behavior case reviewed by Ascension Catholic School teachers and administrators with a recommendation presented to the Principal for a final decision about whether the student should be allowed to stay or should leave Ascension Catholic School.

The Christian value of sexual abstinence until marriage is taught at Ascension Catholic School. In the event that a student becomes pregnant during the time of being at Ascension Catholic School, that student will not be allowed to continue to be educated at Ascension Catholic School. If the father of the baby is a student at Ascension Catholic School, that student will also not be allowed to complete his education at Ascension Catholic School. Expulsion will take place immediately for all students involved in the conception. Ascension Catholic School will work with the parents to find a school for the student/s to attend after expulsion from Ascension Catholic School, if the parents so request.

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PROGRESS REPORTS- CONFERENCESThere will be 2 Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4 Midterms, and 4 Quarter Report Cards. Teachers may ask parents to come for a special conference whenever there is a need. Parents may request conferences at any time. Promotion to the next grade level is not based on marks alone. A child is not considered to have failed if s/he does not progress to the next grade. Rather, the delay is considered as time needed to attain a particular goal. Parents will be notified well in advance that a child may not be ready for promotion. Parents, teacher, and Principal will jointly discuss retention in a particular grade, with the decision made by the Principal and teacher.

FINANCIAL AID

It costs approximately $7,000 per child per year for an Ascension Catholic School education. The family responsibility portion of the tuition is $1,400 per year. Ascension Catholic School does have excellent Financial Aid packages. Applications are available through the Main Office. It is a requirement that parents that obtain Financial Aid for their child be active in all facets of the school such as participating in fundraisers like the Marathon and the Kiddie Karnival, Parent Work Hours, Core Knowledge Nights, attendance at the Christmas Program, and other school activities.

In support of NAZ and Ascension Catholic School’s commitment to provide high-quality and accessible education to families in the NAZ zone, NAZ scholars can attend Ascension Catholic School under full scholarship just as any other students outside of the NAZ zone that has demonstrated financial need.

SAFETYExtreme caution is required when driving in the school parking lot. Please observe all signs and cone restrictions when entering and leaving the parking lot. Never drive up close to the school building! Also, when children are present and cone restrictions are in place, children should be picked up and dropped off at the curb on the same side of the street as the school to eliminate a need to cross the street. Cars may only enter the parking lot at the north entrance or the end where the church is and leave only out of the south entrance or the end where the gym is. Follow signs present. Failure to follow these safety procedures can present a serious problem and is contrary to the safety regulations. Again, never drive up close to the school building!

RULES ON THE PLAYGROUND1. Listen to the playground supervisor.2. Always stay on the playground area.3. Stay on the blacktop, not on the sidewalk or steps.4. The school provides balls. No balls should be brought from home.5. Balls are to be bounced only on the blacktop, not against the building.6. Respect the playground equipment being used by others.7. Rough games involving pushing, pulling, or tackling are not allowed.8. When the bell rings, stop all games and line up quietly to enter the building.9. No food or drinks are allowed on the playground.

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SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICESSpecial Education Services are offered by the Minneapolis Non-Public School Special Education Department. Children having challenges such as speech disability, hearing impairment, orthopedic disability, or learning disability are referred to the Principal, who in turn requests services of the Minneapolis Non-Public Schools Special Education Department. Parents are involved throughout the process of referral, assessment, and staffing conferences.

ASCENSION CATHOLIC SCHOOL CHOIRThe Ascension Catholic School Choir is a highly trained children’s choir that meets once a week for practice during recess. The Ascension Catholic School Choir is comprised of returning Choir students, then incoming 3rd grade students, and lastly new students to the school in grades 3-8. If slots are still available afterwards, returning students that have not previously participated in Choir are slotted into the program.

SPECIALIZED MUSIC PROGRAM EXCEPTIONSAll students in our specialized music programs are expected to attend and participate in all rehearsals and performances, exhibit exemplary behavior as Ascension Catholic School students, and maintain good academic standing.

MACPHAIL CENTER FOR THE ARTS MUSIC PROGRAMS:Musical Trolley This program is offered to our Kindergarten classrooms once per week spanning throughout the school year. The class is taught by a teacher from the MacPhail Center for the Arts. It incorporates an introduction to musical instruments, vocal music, children’s literature, dramatization and art.Musical WorldThis program is offered to our 1st graders. It is taught by a MacPhail teacher on the same schedule as Musical Trolley. It is a continuation of the skills taught in Musical Trolley on a higher, more sophisticated level.Musical AdventuresThis program is offered to our 2nd graders. It is taught by a MacPhail teacher on the same schedule as Musical Trolley. It is highly sophisticated class that seeks to enhance the students understanding of rhythm, storytelling, musical improvisation, and much more.Violin for ChildrenThis program is offered to our 3rd graders. The students receive one full class instruction plus one small group violin lesson weekly from a MacPhail teacher. This program begins the formal and on-going instrumental lessons.Private LessonsThe students in the 4th grade that excelled to the expectation of the MacPhail teacher in the 3rd

grade advance to the private string instrument and orchestral lessons at MacPhail Center for the Arts once per week during the school year. There is a parent component involved in the program, and solid commitment to daily music practices for the student is required. If the expectations are not met, the student jeopardizes his/her continuance of lessons. This program is funded by grants obtained through the work of MacPhail and the Ascension Catholic School Principal. Once a student enters the program at this level, the student must remain in the program for the ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR. Otherwise, valuable funds are wasted and this will not be tolerated.

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TELEPHONE USEChildren will be allowed to use the school telephone for emergencies only. The school phone is a business phone. Teachers calling parents, and parents getting in touch with the school, use it. It is used by administrators to conduct school business. Calls by children will be limited to: sickness, accidents, delays after school due to missing the bus, etc. Cell phones are not permitted with students. If a child brings a cell phone to school s/he must turn it in to the teacher first upon arrival to be locked up for safekeeping. Other technological/electronic devices must be left at home unless approved by the school personnel as an educational support device. The school will not be responsible for the loss, theft, or damage to any technological/electronic/phone devices brought to school from home.

STUDENTS LIVING BETWEEN TWO HOUSEHOLDSSome living arrangements for students require them to move between two households on a regular basis. Ascension Catholic School will send home extra copies of any materials distributed, upon request. Parents can supply stamped, self-addressed envelopes for copies of the Newsletter and Report Cards to go to a second household. It will be the responsibility of the parties involved to handle the distribution. Copies of weekly Newsletters are also available in the School Office. Parents/Guardians of Ascension Catholic School students are responsible for all arrangements that concern the child, and fulfillment of requirements for enrollment at Ascension Catholic School (i.e. who will work the Parent Work Hours and how many, transportation, meal, and tuition payments, etc.). On the official Parent/Teacher Conference Day, there will be only one time slot per child designated.

RELEASING CHILDREN FROM SCHOOLNo student will be released from school to any person other that the parent or legal guardian unless the school has received permission for such release. In the event that the parents are separated, the school will release the child only on the directions of the parent who has custody at that time. A current copy of custody papers should be kept on file in the School Office. It should be supplied by the parent/guardian that has custody. It can be in a sealed envelope and will only be opened if needed. All students leaving the school must be signed out by the parent/adult in the School Office.

HOMEWORK POLICYLearning is continuous and homework is a part of continuous learning. Additionally, homework is a bridge that joins schools and parents. Parents are informed of what their scholar is learning and they are able to express positive attitudes towards their scholar’s achievement. Each teacher independently determines homework assignments, and homework is to be completed on time.

LIBRARYRegular Library periods are scheduled so that each student has an opportunity to check out and exchange books. Many classes have personal classroom libraries too. All students are responsible for returning books on time. The student and / or parents will pay for lost or abused books.

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CARE OF BOOKS AND OTHER SCHOOL PROPERTY

All school books must be taken home in a plastic bag or book bag. When damage, loss, or abuse occurs, children and parents are responsible for replacement, or payment of the books, or other school property, which may be involved. All textbooks must be covered by the end of the first day.

LOST AND FOUNDThe school does not accept responsibility for articles lost by students. Items found on school grounds will be put into our Lost and Found- located near the Main School Office, and can be claimed by the student the next day. Articles not claimed within 30 days will be donated to charity. Please do not send your child with valuables.

BUS TRANSPORTATIONThe Minneapolis Public School District provides bus transportation to the students of Ascension Catholic School who live within our attendance area of North Minneapolis. Remember, this is a service to our students. The parents and the students have the responsibility to be at the pick-up point on time. The student is responsible for his/her conduct on the bus. A student can be deprived of bus service if the student’s conduct and/or attitude give problems to the driver or the other students riding the bus. Parents will be notified if the bus service is denied to their child. Parents will be given the reason and will be responsible for their child’s transportation.

MINNESOTA STATE AID The expressed purpose of Minnesota State Aid is to promote equal educational opportunity for every school child in Minnesota and to assure all Minnesota pupils and parents the freedom of choice in education. The Legislation provides funding for three programs:

1. Textbooks, individualized learning materials, and standardized tests are available to be purchased for the use of non-public school students.

2. Health services and services of a school nurse are made possible through the funding.3. Guidance and counseling services for 7th and 8th grade students are available. This is

made possible through the services of a non-public school counselor who is available to the staff and administration.

HEALTH SERVICESHealth services are provided by school personnel working under the direction of the Minneapolis Public School District, and in conjunction with health services provided through the Minnesota Law of 1975. Each year students attending Ascension Catholic School receive vision and hearing screenings. Scoliosis screening is done on an annual basis for students in grades 6 through 8Minor injuries, which occur on the playground, are first reported to the school offices personnel. In a severe emergency situation, an attempt will be made to notify the parents and when necessary, 911 will also be called. We aim to keep our students safe in the event of critical situations. Accident reports are written for all injuries and kept in files.

If the child has contracted a contagious disease, such as strep throat, or a body rash, infestation, or ringworm, please notify the school office. If detected at school, the child will be sent home and asked to return with a written doctor’s statement. The parents of other children may then be cautioned so that early detection of the disease may be prevented from spreading.

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EDUCATION PLACEMENTIt is policy of Ascension Catholic School that students with communicable disease not be excluded from attending school in their regular classrooms so long as their attendance does not create an unreasonable risk of the transmission of illness to children or employees of the school.

Educational placement of students who lack control of their body secretions or who display behavior such as biting or who have medical conditions such as uncoverable, oozing lesions, will not be accepted at Ascension Catholic School due to lack of personnel to handle these conditions.

MEDICATION POLICYThe policy for administering medication by school personnel is as follows:

1. The administration of medication to students shall be done only in the exceptional circumstances wherein the child’s health may be jeopardized without it.

2. Students requiring medication at school shall be identified by the parent or guardian to the Principal.

3. A written statement is required from the child’s physician who requests and authorizes the giving of medication in the dosage prescribed by that physician; thereby releasing the school personnel from liability should reaction result from the medication dosage. The time is to be given, for how long it is to be given, and possible side effects are also part of the Medication Form. The Medication Form can be obtained at the School Office prior to the need for one so that parents can be ready when a child becomes ill.

4. Under no circumstance may school personnel provide aspirin or any other medication to the students including cough drops or throat sprays.

5. Do not send your child to school with medication. We safeguard all students from accidental exposure to medication. Do not put medication in the student backpacks. Parents must transport medicines to school with the exceptions of inhalers which students may transport to the school and directly to the School Office.

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECTAn employee of Ascension Catholic School who has knowledge or reasonable cause to believe that a student is the victim of physical/ emotional abuse, or neglect shall immediately convey the information to the Principal. Remember that this includes a child who is tardy or absent repeatedly.

The school shall keep the name of the reporter confidential. Only a court order following an investigation may release the name of the reporter to the alleged perpetrator. As provided in the Minnesota Statutes section 626.556, subd.11 and section 626.557, subd.12.

FIRE DRILLSIn accordance with the rules and regulations of the Minneapolis Fire Department, fire drills will be carried out on a routine basis throughout the school year. Complete silence is to be observed. The proper exit is posted in each classroom.

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Crisis LockdownIn the event of a school danger crisis, the entire school will follow lockdown procedures. Parents will receive a letter on the day of a school lockdown. Teachers are well trained in all crisis procedures.

FIELD TRIPS/OUTINGS Permission slips signed by a parent or guardian is required, and must be in the teacher’s hand on the date specified. Parental permission by phone will not be accepted. Participation on field trips and outings may be forfeited by the students because of misbehavior in class, lack of classroom work, excessive tardiness to school, or problems on a previous outing.

REGISTRATION/EMERGENCY FORMSRegistration Forms are filled out by a parent or guardian when the child is enrolled in school. If changes occur, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school in writing immediately. This safeguards the child if an emergency arises. ALWAYS UPDATE THE SCHOOL AS TO NEW PHONE NUMBERS. This is critical.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAMAscension Catholic School has a breakfast and lunch program available to students.

Breakfasts cost $2.00 per day. Lunches cost $3.30 per day. All Kindergarteners eat breakfast free.

Adult lunches cost $3.50.

Families can find out if they qualify for free or reduced meals by filing out the proper government form at Registration or in the School Office. It is best when all families take the time to fill out this form as many that thought they would not qualify find they do. It saves the family a lot of money and students receive nutritious meals daily. Students bringing a bag lunch may buy milk for $.25. Students buying hot lunch, get one-half pint of milk with the lunch. If they want more than one they also have to pay $.25. Parents must pre-pay for all student meal in the School Office or in a sealed envelope sent to school with the student. The payment will be applied to the student’s account. KEEP WATCH OVER THE FAMILY ACCOUNT SO THAT YOUR CHILD CAN EAT THE FULL HOT MEAL. Students without paid meals will be served a cold cheese sandwich with a carton of milk. Most students are embarrassed when their parents neglect to take care of this responsibility.

Students bringing lunches may not bring canned beverages, sugary sweets or lunches that need heating.

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RULES GOVERNING STUDENT BEHAVIOR

Respect teachers' and classmates' right to teach or learn without unnecessary disturbances. Violations include the following:

1. Coming to class late.2. Leaving class / school without permission from a teacher/administrator.3. Chewing gum - a fine of $5.00 is charged each time a child is discovered chewing gum.4. Eating in class - a fine of $5.00 is charged each time a child chooses to snack during class

time.5. Talking to a classmate, or self, repeatedly during class time.6. Speaking disrespectfully.7. Doing homework while direct classroom instruction is going on.8. Talking, disturbing or damaging the property of anyone else.9. Disobeying the request of those in authority.10. Defacing school property.11. Any personal electronic gear is prohibited in school.12. Writing on desks, or in any way, damaging the property on school grounds.13. Disrespecting the privacy of others.14. Fighting, pushing, shoving, etc. (suspension will be immediate).15. Writing on mirrors, walls, or stalls of the restrooms.16. Spitting, sprinkling, throwing, etc. of water.17. Using paper towels for any purpose other than drying of hands.18. Screaming, shouting, or making any other disturbing noise. 19. Running or jumping.20. Making excessive noises.21. Sharing food ("No sharing food" is a law of the Minnesota Health Dept.).22. Throwing food. Moving from table to table to provoke, incite, or irritate others.23. Teasing, taunting, name calling, etc.24. Taking playground equipment from another student, or class without permission.25. Leaving the playground without permission.26. Riding bikes on the playground.27. Throwing ice, snow, or a dangerous object at any person on the playground.

a. A fine of $5.00 will be charged to those who are caught doing so.28. Damaging any building, car, bike, or other item on school property.29. Snow hills are off limits.30. Other actions that violate the philosophy of Ascension School.

Note: THESE BEHAVIORS ARE UNACCEPTABLE IN THE SCHOOL BUILDING, THE CAFETERIA, THE PLAYGROUND, THE BUS, THE PARK, THE CHURCH, AND THE GYM.

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ASCENSION ATHLETIC POLICY

The Ascension Athletic Program is designed to be a part of the total development of the children in the school and Parish. Our primary emphasis is on education and moral development. We are members of the Monsignor Coates Youth Organization (M.C.Y.O.). To this end, the purpose of the Athletic Program is to develop moral attitudes, physical skills, and a sense of responsibility, sportsmanship, and self-discipline within a Catholic Christian educational atmosphere.

1. Eligibility for team sports is from 3rd through 8th grade, and open to both boys and girls of the Ascension School or Parish. Ascension teams are subject to all the rules and regulations of the M.C.Y.O. in which they participate.

2. There are high educational expectations placed upon athletes in Ascension School, thus it is expected that an athlete will work to the best of his/her ability on academic subjects. If a student is not working up to the best of his/her ability, the teacher is responsible for notifying the Principal, who will in turn notify the Athletic Director. A plan will be worked out to aid the child in improving his/her work habits.

3. There are equally high expectations placed on athletes in Ascension School to conduct themselves in accordance with school policies and procedures concerning behavior and attitude. Should a child have behavioral problems, the staff involved will monitor the child's behavior and attitude with a view of concern. Then a decision will be made by staff regarding eligibility.

4. Truancy and unexcused absence from school will result in suspension from the team.5. Misconduct, while participating in, or in attendance at an athletic event, may lead to suspension

from the team.6. All students who participate in athletics will be governed by the Ascension School Discipline

Policy and Procedure.7. Unexcused absence from athletic practice will require a note at the next practice.8. Proper care of uniforms, equipment, and facilities is expected. Participants must pay for lost or

damaged items.9. Coaches will be responsible for the conduct of their teams.10. The Athletic Director is responsible to notify the students, coaches, teachers, and Principal

regarding suspensions or problems that occur during practices and games.11. Players and parents of players shall show good sportsmanship by having respect for officials,

spectators, or other players.12. Players and parents of players shall refrain from using obscene language or gestures in league

activities.13. All players, parents of players, and coaches must have a signed Code of Conduct on file at the

school for each sport in which there is participation.14. If a player is absent during a regular school day, excused or unexcused, that player may not

participate in practice or play in a game on the day or weekend.15. Parental concerns should be discussed with the Athletic Director only. Our coaches are

volunteering their own time. All situations should be dealt with exercising courtesy and respect.

The Procedure Followed for a Child Placed on Probation:1. Parent and child are contacted.2. A plan of action is devised which includes the child getting schoolwork completed with good

quality.3. At the end of 2 weeks, the child is evaluated to see if s/he followed the plan.4. If no improvement was made, the child comes off the team for the rest of the season. The child

becomes ineligible for any athletic trophies for that season.Note: ALL COACHES AND TEAM PLAYERS WILL GET A COPY OF THIS POLICY

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CARE OF OUR TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS

We have made a priority of supplying our school with the latest and most updated technological tools from our MAC lab to our IPad2 mobile labs on each floor of the school. Policies and procedures for use are developed to keep all of this equipment in excellent working condition and available to all students in our school. Students without signed notices and agreements for care will not be allowed to use this equipment for anything other than assessment. At the beginning of the school year, each family will be required to sign awareness/agreement notice about the care and expectations surrounding this equipment. These contracts will be available on Classroom Meeting nights within the first weeks of the school year.

All families will be responsible for the care of this technology. Any student intentionally or accidentally breaking any of this equipment will be held responsible for the replacement of the equipment. This is a costly endeavor so it is the hope of Ascension Catholic School that every family will have a serious conversation with their child/ren about the care needed when using these educational tools.

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