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updated 7/26/10
MARIA IMMACOLATA CATHOLIC SCHOOL
"ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE WITHIN A CHRISTIAN SETTING"
MISSION STATEMENT
Maria Immacolata Catholic School is an elementary school serving preschool
through seventh grade students of Maria Immacolata Parish and the surrounding community. A professional faculty and staff strive to teach our children to become responsible and caring members of their community through academic excellence, strong family involvement, and a loving relationship with God.
PHILOSOPHY
Maria Immacolata is a Catholic parochial school, established to impart Catholic Christian values and principles as well as secular knowledge to the children through the curriculum and the attitudes of all in the school.
Through these Christian values and the principles that are taught, students will be motivated to maintain self-discipline. Students will gain knowledge of God and His divine love. They will be helped in all activities to attain peace of soul and eternal salvation.
Students will be encouraged through a thorough teaching of all academic areas in accordance with Gospel values and in preparation for living in the twenty-first century.
It is the aim of the faculty and staff, aided by the students, to make Maria Immacolata a place of growth to attain happiness, justice and fairness for all, and to gain knowledge of the presence of our loving God, who rules and guides us.
SCHOOL DESIGN
MICS is an accredited parochial school serving students in preschool through grades 7. All employees must be dedicated to professional and spiritual growth.
MICS strives to provide a balanced curriculum that addresses Louisiana Content Standards and develops the mind, body, and spirit. Technology is integrated across the curriculum (accomplished with a computer lab and classroom computers).
Extra-curricular offerings include band, Just Say No Club, 4-H, HAF Time Club, Cross Country Kids, a Running Club, and Beta Club.
The Student/Parent Handbook is subject to enforcement of all state regulations as issued in the Nonpublic School Commission Handbook and in diocesan regulations as published in the Handbook of Policies for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
GOVERNANCE
The Pastor is the head of the school and is assisted by the MICS Board. The principal is the administrator of the school who collaborates with the Pastor and the School Board.
ADMISSION POLICY
Maria Immacolata Catholic School admits students of any race, color, and national and ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, and activities generally available in the school. Order of admission is determined annually by the MICS Board.
PRESCHOOL
1. A child must be four years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year to be accepted to preschool.
2. A parent interview may be held with the administration/teacher.
KINDERGARTEN
1. A child must be five years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year to be accepted to kindergarten.
2. A parent/student interview may be held with the administration/teacher.
FIRST GRADE
1. The child must be six years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
1. Baptismal Certificate (if the child is a Catholic)
2. Copy of Birth Certificate
3. Signed updated immunization record and proof of 11 yr. old meningococcal vaccination
4. Copy of Social Security Card
NEW STUDENTS - GRADES 2 – 7
1. All of the documents that are listed above must be presented along with proof of 11 yr. old meningococcal vaccination.
2. Previous report cards and Standardized Test results must also be available.
3. A parents/student interview will be held with the principal.
REGISTRATION AND FEES
1. Tuition/fees determined annually by the MICS Board.
2. A per-student registration fee is paid at the time of registration. This is a non-refundable fee and cannot be included in the student tuition loan.
3. A per-student administration/book fee covers the cost of all religion books, workbooks not included in the state textbook allotment, state testing fees, insurance, and the diocesan student assessment.
4. Non-Catholic families are assessed an additional fee.
5. The home parish of out-of-parish Catholic students will be assessed an annual fee per student.
6. MICS adheres to a prepaid tuition plan. All tuition/fees must be prepaid by the date designated by administration. Coastal Bank provides low-interest student tuition loans for families preferring paying monthly tuition. Loans that are sixty (60) days delinquent are canceled by the bank. In such instances, MICS expects immediate
payment. Failure to comply will result in the child being dropped from the school enrollment.
7. Advisory Board policy requires the following:
a. A child will not be allowed to take quarterly exams if all outstanding bills have been paid.
b. A child will not be readmitted for the spring semester until all outstanding bills have not been paid.
c. A child will not be allowed to take final exams and grades will be marked "I" for incomplete for the year for upper grade levels. Lower grade students will be graded for the last two weeks of school and final grades will be marked "I" for incomplete. No students will be allowed to participate in the end-of-the-year awards program if the school is owed money for any unpaid bills.
d. A child will not be accepted for the upcoming year if tuition and all outstanding bills have not been paid.
e. Parents are asked to contact the office in the event of hardship cases.
8. Tuition Refunds
Prior to the first day of school – 100% tuition refund
Between the first day of school and September 30 – 80% refund
Between October 1 and November 30 – 60% refund
Between December 1 and January 10 – 20% refund
After January 10 – no tuition refund
Parents who finance tuition are required to pay out any balance owed within thirty days of withdrawal.
9. Parents must call the school and the bank to report late payments.
10. Limited tuition assistance is available; therefore, please contact the principal for information.
11. Free/reduced lunch forms are available in the office.
12. All NSF checks will be assessed a $15.00 processing fee.
SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL
1. Nine members serve three year terms that rotate. Three of the members are appointed by the principal, three are appointed by the MI Church Council, and three are appointed by the Pastor.
2. A tenth School Advisory Council member is the PTC President who serves for a one- year term.
3. Parents wishing to serve should contact the principal or the Pastor.
4. Parents wishing to submit an idea for consideration should send a written request to the Council President.
5. The Council acts only at official Council meetings and only as a body.
6. The Council follows the Handbook of Policies for Catholic Schools guidelines.
7. The principal is available for concerns regarding school matters.
8. Please do not contact Council members with school concerns. Contact the teacher first and then the principal if further help is needed. Council members cannot act on administrative matters.
.................... CO-OP BOARD
1. The MICS PTC is a means of having valuable family/school participation that focuses on the mission of the school. The furthering of the school's Mission can grow best with excellent attendance and participation.
2. There will be at least two meetings per year.
3. At times, a ballot may be sent home so all families can have a voice rather than
only people who attend meetings having a voice
4. The officers are elected annually with the president serving a one-year term on the
School Board.
5. Parents wishing to serve as officers or who would like to submit ideas or suggest
speakers for the meetings should contact the principal.
6. There is an annual family fee assessed for PTC functions.
...... DRESS CODE
NOTE: All regulation uniform parts are available at Young Fashions, Jakes, and School Time. Uniform shoes are available at Felger’s Footwear, Shoe Carnival, and J. C. Penney. Please make certain that the uniform parts conform to the MICS dress code. Any dress code violation will result in the parents being called to correct the problem. Further violations will result in disciplinary action.
GIRLS’ UNIFORM
1. PreK-third grade girls may wear the two choices of plaid jumpers or the plaid skort with the Peter Pan collar blouse or the white uniform blouse.
2. Second-third grade girls may also choose to wear the stitched pleat skirts.
3. Fourth-seventh grade girls may wear the stitched pleat skirt or the skort with the white uniform blouse. In grades PreK-third, the skirts may not be shorter than 2 inches above the knees when kneeling. In grades fourth - seventh, the skirts may not be shorter than 2 inches above the knees when kneeling.
4. White oxford cloth shirts only; short or long sleeves; tucked-in at all times. Appropriate undergarments must be worn under shirts in grades 4-7. They must be solid white and sleeveless!
5. MICS t-shirts may be worn on Fridays; Just Say No shirts and 4-H Shirts (Gr. 4-7) may be worn on meeting days.
6. Sweatshirts: Navy MICS sweatshirts or solid navy sweatshirts only. However, they must be worn over a regular uniform shirt. No hooded sweatshirts will be allowed. All outerwear MUST be solid navy. No emblems of any kind other than MICS will be allowed.
7. Shoes: Black, brown, or navy lace-up shoes. No Sperry or Sketcher brand deck type shoes or alternate brand may be worn. First-Seventh-solid white tennis shoes must be worn on P.E. days. We advise Pre K to wear their uniform buckle, Velcro, or slip on shoes every day. No lace-ups!
8. Solid white or navy socks must be worn which go above the ankle. Below the ankle socks or tennis socks and socks with emblems or lace are not allowed. Girls may wear white, navy, or flesh tone stockings with socks on cold days.
9. Long PE jersey shorts in navy must be worn under skirts and jumpers at all times. (These can be purchased at the uniform shops) Biking shorts, umbro shorts, boxer shorts, leggings or thermal underwear are not permitted. Pre K and kindergarten students may also wear navy bloomers. Girls can wear long navy uniform pants on PE days only.
10. Stud earrings and small loops are acceptable; however, dangling earrings may not
be worn. Only one pair is allowed.
11. Silver or gold chains with crosses or religious medals are allowed; no bracelets or decorative jewelry; no button covers. Non-musical watches may be worn; however, alarm watches, musical watches, or decorative watches are not allowed. Rings that are small in size may be worn. The school is not responsible for lost jewelry.
12.Navy, white, or uniform plaid hair ribbons only; however, one week before a holiday, seasonal bows may be worn. Navy, white, gold, silver, or brown barrettes are acceptable. No clips or rubber bands. Hair must be of a natural color and pulled back away from the eyes or bangs cut above the eyebrows.
13.Nail polish, sculptured nails, French nails, make-up, caps, or hats will not be allowed at school or on school-sponsored events.
BOYS’ UNIFORM
1. Boys must wear navy uniform pants or shorts with belt loops, no jeans or casual pants/shorts.
2. Belts must be black, brown, or navy blue. Belts must be worn. PreK boys will wear navy blue magnetic belts.
3. Light blue knit or cloth uniform shirts; short or long sleeves; no emblems are allowed other than the MICS emblem; shirts must be tucked-in at all times. All undershirts worn under uniform shirts must be plain white - no emblems.
4. MIS t-shirts may be worn on Fridays; Just Say No shirts and 4-H shirts (Gr. 4-7) may be worn on meeting days.
5. MIS sweatshirts, solid navy or solid white sweatshirts may be worn; however, they must be worn over a regular uniform shirt. No emblems or designs are allowed. Sweatshirts and sweaters may not be tied around the waist and may NOT be hooded. The same rules apply for outwear as stated in Girls Uniform line 4.
6. Plain white or navy turtlenecks may be worn under the uniform shirt on cold days.
7. Shoes: Black, brown, or black lace-up shoes. (Not tennis shoes) First-Seventh Solid white tennis shoes may be worn on P.E. days. We advise that PreK shoes be velcro.
8. Solid white or navy socks must be worn. Ankle or tennis socks with emblems are not acceptable............
9. Caps, hats, earrings, or sunglasses are not allowed at school or at school sponsored events.
10.Crosses or religious medals may be worn on silver or gold chains only, and Lenten crosses may be worn during Lent. Non-musical watches may be worn; however, alarm watches, musical watches, or decorative watches are not allowed. Rings that are small in size may be worn. The school is not responsible for lost jewelry.
11. Hair cannot touch eyebrows, ears or collars. All facial hair must be removed. Hair must be of a natural color.
......... ATTENDANCE
1. Students are expected to be present at school unless they are ill.
2. Absences:
a. Parents must send a written excuse explaining the reason for the absence on the day the student returns to school.
b. Please inform the teacher in the event of an extended absence (surgery or other
emergencies).
c. Students who are absent for more than three consecutive days are required to bring a doctor's excuse.
d. Kinds of excuses: Parents should contact the principal for determination if an
expected absence will be considered as being excused or unexcused.
3. Unexcused absences – A student is absent for an unacceptable reason or simply as a matter of convenience, such as vacation, fishing and/or hunting trips, shopping, visiting relatives, etc. The student loses the right to make up class work and homework. When the student returns, any missed classwork/homework will be provided to the student for studying purpose, for future tests and/or exams. Tests missed during unexcused absences will be counted as an F. If a test is scheduled on the day of his return from an unexcused absence, the student must take the test.
4. Excused absences - Any absence for an acceptable reason such as student illness, death or serious illness within the family, or other circumstances permitted by the principal's discretion. Work missed as a result of an excused absence must be made up. If a student is absent (excused) only on the day of a planned test, the test must be made up on the day the student returns. For a prolonged absence, the student is allowed up to 5 days for make-up work. Make- up work or tests missed during an absence must be made by the end of the nine- week period or the grade becomes an F. A written excuse must accompany the student on the day of return or this will be counted as unexcused absence until a written excuse is received.
5. School related absences - This is not counted as a day of absence; however, school work must be made up for all classes that were missed.
6. Partial day absence - If a student misses more than two class periods, this constitutes a one half (1/2) day absence. The two class attendance also applies as a minimum to get credit for one half (1/2) day attendance.
7. School work is available in the school office after 2:00 P.M. each day for excused absences. Please call 876-1631 (the school) by 10:00 A.M. if you wish to pick up school work.
8. The MICS principal will report excessive absences to the Terrebonne Parish School Board Child Welfare and Attendance Department There is a possibility that a child will not be promoted to the next grade if the child has been absent for 20 or more days. Cases involving prolonged illness with verification from a doctor will be considered and evaluated by the principal.
9. School begins at 7:50 A.M. ALL STUDENTS MUST BE ON CAMPUS BY THIS TIME OR A TARDY WILL BE RECORDED. After the morning bell has rung, parents must park in the parking lot and accompany their child/children to the school office to sign them in and obtain an admit slip. Students must obtain an admit slip from the office to be admitted to class.
10. If Pre K and Kindergarten classes have already gone inside, parents must first obtain an admit slip from the office and walk their child to class.
11.Grades 1-7: After the third unexcused tardy for the school year, the student and parent will meet with the principal. Additional tardies will result in disciplinary actions:
· Recess dentions
· In school suspensions
· Out of school suspensions
· Possible expulsion
The policy for students in grades Pre K and Kindergarten requires that after the third unexcused tardy for the school year, the student and the parent will be required to meet with the principal the following morning at 7:15 AM before being allowed into the classroom. Students will fare possible disciplinary consequences.
VISITORS/SAFE ENVIORNMENT
1. Visitors are asked to always check in with the office; even our volunteers who come on a regular basis.
2. Visitors and volunteers are asked to dress appropriately while at school and Mass. Lunch Room volunteers are asked to wear closed toe shoes for safety reasons.
3. Safe Environment training has been ongoing through out the Diocese of Houma- Thibodaux. The training is MANDATORY for any person over the age of 18 who volunteers to work with the students in any capacity in the Diocese. This includes anyone volunteering their time in the classroom, cafeteria, field trips, etc. The National Child Protection Office of the U. S. Conference of Bishops has mandated this training for anyone who works or volunteers in any parish or school.
4. MICS would encourage all parents to complete safe environment training at the beginning of the year. Details will be sent to each parent.
1. The school day begins at 7:50 A.M. and ends at 2:40 P.M. You may also consult the large clock on the wall outside the cafeteria to synchronize bell time.
2. Duty begins at 7:15 AM; therefore, students may come to school at this time.
3. Please drop the students off in front of the school cafeteria. Pick-up is in the
sheltered area in front of the cafeteria.
4. Students will only be allowed to call for forgotten items until the 7:50 A.M. bell rings. Parents can bring forgotten items to the office and the student will be allowed to pick up at recess.
5. Please do not park in the parking lot to drop-off or pick-up students. Students are not allowed in the parking lot for morning drop-off or after-school dismissal.
6. Parents must line-up behind the buses in the afternoon. Please do not pull up
until buses have left and a duty teacher is visible. Parents are asked to park in the parking lot and walk on campus only when they are signing out their children for a doctor's appointment. All other students must be picked up by using the car line. NO STUDENT CHECKS OUT AFTER 2:00 P.M. UNLESS APPROVED BY THE PRINCIPAL. Instructional time should be guarded.
7. Walkers/bike riders will leave after the buses and cars have left.
8. Please follow the circle to re-enter Estate Drive. The shell area will be used only by the buses.
9. Each morning, please inform your child if he/she will be a bus rider, car rider, or will attend Child Care. For young children, also send it in writing if there are any changes in the routine. NO PHONE CALLS TO CHANGE TRANSPORTATION UNLESS IT IS AN EMERGENCY. If a child will be going home with another child or an adult, or if a child is riding a different bus, the school must have a written note from parent.
10.Please listen to KHOM radio for emergency closings. In the event of inclement weather, The Diocesan Superintendent will determine the need for the closure of the Catholic schools. We will also update our Maria Immacolata website (which will send you an email) with emergency information as well as the Edline home page. If public schools close due to inclement weather we will also close.
SCHOOL LUNCHES
1. Hot lunches are provided by the St. Bernadette cafeteria daily.
2. All students may choose to buy a school lunch or bring a lunch from home. Parents/students are required to make this choice during the first full week of school and again during the first week of January. Students cannot switch from eating a school lunch to bringing lunch from home until January.
3. Students who are bringing a lunch from home may change to buying a school lunch at any time. If this change takes place during the first half of the school year, students will not be able to return to non-eating status until January. Any unused portion of pre-paid lunch fees will be refunded at the end of the school year upon written request.
4. Preschool - 3rd grade students will be served from the "hot lunch" line if they have elected to purchase school lunches. Students in grades 4-7 will have a daily choice from the hot lunch menu, the sandwich line, or the salad bar.
5. Students in grades 4-7 who are purchasing a lunch may make a selection each day based on the announced menu.
6. Students who have allergies and cannot drink milk must provide the office with a current doctor's note at the beginning of the school year. These students will then receive juice instead of milk.
7. Students who bring a lunch from home are allowed to bring bottled water or fruit juice; no carbonated drinks or candy is allowed. These drinks must be stored on the child’s lunch box until lunch time.
8. Students are not allowed to exchange or share lunches. If this occurs, disciplinary actions will be necessary.
9. Students and faculty will not bring fast food/restaurant branded containers and wrappers in to the cafeteria. Please do not send any fast food in your child's lunch. This practice jeopardizes the school's federal funds for the lunch program. Extra milk and juice will be sold to all of the students when available. Cost of milk and 4oz juices are 30c each and the 8oz juice is 50c each.
10.When the cafeteria is needed for special events, the school will announce that all students must bring a lunch from home for that particular day. Fast food items will be allowed unless a statement from school states otherwise.
11.Free/reduced lunch forms will be sent to all families at the beginning of the school Please fill out all of the information that is requested and return the form to the school in a sealed envelope marked "OFFICE". All information is kept confidential. Additional forms will be available in the main office.
12.If a family member wishes to eat with a child, please call the office before 9:00 AM
so the cafeteria staff can be informed of this. Please pay for the lunch in the office.
13.Parents and grandparents are encouraged to volunteer to serve lunch in the cafeteria. This is done on a rotating basis; therefore, please call the office
(876-1631) so we can place your name on the list.
14.Parent/Grandparent Luncheons will be held monthly. You will receive an invitation during the month of your child's luncheon. The cost for this luncheon is $3.50 per
person and is not included with your child's lunch payment for the year. Again, no fast food will be allowed on these days.
.
CHILDCARE
The following guidelines must be followed for child care:
1. All students who use this service must have a completed Child Care Form on file. Please keep this information as current as possible.
2. Hour #1: Students will study/complete homework or read. Staff may provide assistance. However, parents should check homework/study with their child. Child care is not designed to be a tutoring session or academic extension of the school day.
3. Child Care is offered daily from 3:00 P.M. until 5:30 P.M. A late fee will be assessed after 5:30 P.M. at $1.00 per minute for every minute. (For example, if your child is picked up at 5:31 P.M., you will be responsible for $1.00, if picked up at 5:35 P.M. you will be responsible for $5.00.)
4. Child care begins at 3:00 P.M.. If your child is not picked up in the car line by 3:00 P.M. they will be sent to child care. If you come to pick your child up at 3:01 P.M. or any time after, your account will be charged the $5.00 child care fee for that day. No exceptions.
5. Child care payments are due in advance on the 25th of each month and must be in the office by the 5th of the due month. Effective in the 09-10 school year, usage for each month was estimated and this amount paid in full. Any over payments are applied to the next month. Late payments will be assessed a late free of $5.00 per day for each day payment is not made after the 5th.
6. For the month of August only, payments will be due by the 20th and statements for the following month of September will be sent out on the 25th.
7. Payments can be made directly to the child care employees or sent to the office in an envelope with your child.
8. If accounts are not kept current, child care services may be denied.
9. Snacks are provided daily. If your child prefers not to eat the snack provided he/she may bring a snack from home. No sunflower seeds, gum or candy allowed.
10. Child Care calls should be made to 876-1610 if they are made after normal school hours. It is our goal to provide a safe environment for your child/children. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
CATHOLICISM
1. Parents are the first teachers for their children by being positive Christian role models and expecting the same practices from the children.
2. All students must participate in prayer time and Mass each Wednesday. Families are welcome to attend school Mass but students must remain with their classes.
3. Only students who have celebrated the Sacrament of First Eucharist receive Holy Communion.
4. All students are expected to follow the basic Gospel values taught.
5. Please inform the school of family illnesses, deaths, etc. for prayer time by sending
a note to the homeroom teacher.
6. Catholic families are expected to attend Mass each weekend. School Mass
does not replace Saturday/Sunday Mass attendance. Students are taught
the meaning of the weekend readings in preparation for a meaningful parti-
cipation in the celebration of weekend Mass. Please look for those sheets on Fridays.
7. Envelopes - Students are reminded that the use of envelopes is highly
recommended. Please make every effort to remind your child of his weekly offertory giving. The offertory envelopes may be used during school church services or on Sunday when the parish celebrates church services. Please emphasize to the students the importance of Church support by using their time, talent or treasures.
THE CURRICULUM
1. MICS curriculum follows the requirements of the LA Content Standards in Bulletin 741 for non-public schools.
2. Curriculum decisions are made jointly by the faculty and the administration. Extra- curricular offerings include band, Just Say No Club, 4-H Club, Beta Club, HAF Time Club, and Cross Country Kids Running Club.
3. Computer applications are offered during computer lab and is integrated into the curriculum. Each class room is equipped with computers.
4. New textbooks and support materials are purchased routinely.
5. MICS goes through an evaluation process every 5 years and is Advanced SACS/CASI accredited.
6. Teachers and the administration participate in professional development
classes, workshops, and conventions throughout the year.
6. The Special Needs Committee (SNC) is composed of the principal, the student’s present teacher, the student’s former teacher (if possible), the parents, and any other person deemed necessary meet to discuss the student’s performance. The
parents are informed of specific recommendations. 504 Accomodations will be made by the classroom teacher. MICS does not offer Special Education services but speech therapy teachers, Title I teachers, and adaptive P.E. teachers are furnished by the Terrebonne Parish School Board.
HOMEWORK
1. Homework is meant to be the child’s responsibility and the child’s work.
2. As the child progresses through the grades the objective of home assignments progresses also.
A. At the primary level our main goal is to form a day-to-day habit of homework as routine, as a fact of daily life. The work is geared to reinforce what is being taught at school. It is critical that parents at this level know and be a part of what the child is learning and how he/she is learning it.
B. It is at the fourth grade level that the child should begin to make the transition to total independence in doing the homework.
......
MICS GRADING SCALE FOR GRADES 1-7
A - Outstanding Achievement.....100-94
B - Above Average...................... 93-86
C - Average................................. 85-78
D - Below Average...................... 77-70
F - Unsatisfactory........................ 69-0
REPORTING GRADES AND PROGRESS TO PARENTS
1. MIS students in grades 1-7 are tested weekly on skills taught.
2. Packets are sent home on Tuesdays and should be returned on Wednesdays. Each packet has a cover sheet with a weekly conduct grade and a space for the teacher and/or parent comments. Cover sheets must be signed by parents and returned on Wednesdays. Detention begins on Thursday for the upper grades if not returned on time until the packet is brought back to school.
4. Report card dates appear on the monthly calendars posted on Edline. The envelope in which it goes home should be signed and returned to the school the next day. If a report card (Kindergarten) is kept to show a parent who is out of town, please send a note to the teacher informing her of the delay.
5. Early Childhood students are assessed once each semester. This assessment is done by using a non-graded checklist and a portfolio assessment of progress.
...... CONFERENCES
1. Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled annually in January. Teachers will plan for these conferences so that parents can be effectively informed about student progress. We ask that parents come to the conferences with questions and concerns to be discussed with the teacher.
2. Parents are encouraged to contact teachers at any point in the school year when they wish to discuss their child’s progress. Appointments should be made by sending a written request to the teacher.
EXAMS AND AVERAGES
1. At the end of each quarter students in grades 5-7 will take nine weeks exams in core subjects only.
2. A student who appears to willfully fail the work of the fourth nine weeks
may be failed for the year regardless of the previous grades received.
This action must have the approval of the principal.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
1. Students in grades 1-3 will be retained if they fail either Reading or Math.
2. Students in grades 4-7 will be retained if they fail two (2) major subjects.
Major subjects in grades 4-7 are Reading, Math, English, Social
Studies, and Science. Minor subjects are Religion, Spelling, Health and PE. Students will be assigned S or U in the following subject: PE, Computer Lab. and Library Skills.
3. Students are expected to master appropriate grade level expectations in order to be promoted.
4. Kindergarten promotion to 1st grade will depend upon the achievement and performance level of the student as determined by a committee consisting of the kindergarten teacher, 1st grade teacher, and the principal.
P.E. GUIDELINES
Parent Excuse: All students are expected to participate in Physical Education. If it is necessary for a student to be excused from class activities, a note from home must be taken to his/her P.E. instructor at the beginning of the class period. Students excused from activity are not excused from class.
Doctor Excuse: If a student is to be excused for activity for more than 3 consecutive days, an excuse from a doctor is mandatory. Doctors’ note is to be submitted to the P.E. instructor. A student wishing to return to P. E. Before the doctor’s note expires must have a release from the physician.
Medical Conditions: Any notes regarding health conditions or medical excuses must be brought directly to the P.E. teacher. If a student is well enough to be in school, he/she is considered to be well enough to participate to some degree in class activities. A student unable to take part in vigorous activity is still expected to listen, observe, learn, encourage or serve as judge, scorekeeper, or helper. Failure to participate in P.E. without a written excuse will result in lower participation scores.
Attire: Solid white tennis shoes are mandatory. Failure to dress for P/E. will result in lower participation scores (See uniform guidelines for specifics on what may and may not be worn for P. E.).
RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC AND CONDUCT
ACHIEVEMENT
Academic excellence is recognized each nine weeks in grades 1-7 in four ways:
1. "A" Honor Roll - all A's in academics; A or B in conduct.
2. "A-B" Honor Roll - a combination of A's and B's in academics; A or B in
conduct.
3. "A" Honor Conduct - all students who earn an A in conduct regardless of
other grades on report card each nine weeks will be recognized at mid year and end of the year.
4. Up in Two and Down in None - recognition of extra effort to improve academic grades in at least two subjects without going down to a lower grade in any
subject. Improvement in conduct counts positively but not negatively
Please note – a child cannot have a “C” or lower in conduct in order to be recognized for any honor roll.
DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE
Maria Immacolata Catholic School affirms that each person is a significant and capable gift from God. We promote a positive environment of academic and spiritual growth. We empower each student with the skills to act respectfully and responsibily in a Christian manner.
In order to promote academic excellence and spiritual growth we, the MICS community, establish these policies and expectations for all:
1. Be courteous
2. Be prepared
3. Treat others as you wish to be treated
4. Do your best at all times
5. Uphold a safe learning environment.
Students at MICD will practice the above policies and expectations. The ideal discipline within all Catholic schools is to help move from externally imposed discipline to self-discipline to discipleship. Disciplinary action taken as a result of student misconduct is intended to help students develop self-discipline and internalize appropriate behavioral skills. It also serves to create, and maintain, a positive Christian atmosphere conducive to learning for all students.
General Rules:
1. Classroom and classroom-related behavior is the teachers’ responsibility. The classroom teacher will discipline students using a variety of methods, including, but not limited to the following:
a. loss of privileges
b. extra work
c. phone call to parent.
A student is referred to the principal by the teacher when it is judged necessary due to the seriousness and/or number of violations. The principal will contact the parent and inform the parent regarding the violation and the consequence deemed necessary.
Violations:
Detention will be issued by the principal for the following violations:
· Accumulation of three (3) dress code violations
· Accumulations of three (3) unexcused tardies
· Any of the minor violations listed below
Major/Minor Violations:
The seriousness of the violations (as deemed by the principal) will determine the consequences.
· Disrespect to faculty, staff, or school visitors
· Fighting, pushing, tripping
· Harassing/bullying
· Inappropriate language (profanity)
· Leaving classroom or supervised area without permission
· Vandalism/defacing school property or individual’s property
· In possession of cell phone, electronic media device of any kind, laser lights
· Plagiarism, stealing, cheating, or lying
· Possession of a weapon or instrument that can be used for bodily harm
· Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or controlled substances.
Consequences/Suspensions:
Consequences:
· Recess Detention
· After School Detention (1hr)
· In-school suspension (described below)
Disciplinary action and length of suspension is reserved for the principal. Parents will be notified immediately regarding the severity of the violation and length of suspension. The student will receive a grade of “F” for all tests that are missed during the suspension.
Suspension:
Action and length of suspension is reserved for the principal. Parents will be notified immediately regarding the severity of the violation & length of suspension. The student will receive a grade of “F” for all tests that are missed during the suspension.
Types of Suspensions:
1. In-school suspension—student will be isolated from his class for the day; he will be expected to do his assigned classwork
2. Out-of-school suspension—student will be not be allowed to attend school for a specified length of time; a parent conference must be held with principal upon the student’s return to school
3. Bus suspension—the bus is an extension of the school day. The student is expected to observe all bus rules and regulations. If a student does not follow these rules, he/she may be suspended from the bus. In this case, the parent must furnish transportation to/from school for the duration of the suspension. A parent conference must be held with the principal before the student can resume normal bus activities.
Expulsion: Extreme cases of violation of school rules may be grounds for a student to be expelled from MICS. This is considered to be a serious decision and will be made by the principal.
DRUGS-ALCOHOL-WEAPONS
1. MICS is a drug-free, alcohol-free, and weapon-free zone. There can be no use of
illegal drugs , alcohol, or tobacco in this zone or on the buses.
2. Knives, guns, and any other weapons are not allowed on campus or the bus.
3. Violation will be handled according to the law that governs school zones.
4. Students, parents, employees, and guests are included in the policy.
PARENT - SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS
1. The principal, faculty and staff welcome parental questions and concerns. Please do not hesitate to call the school.
2. Parents are encouraged to contact the teachers at any point in the school year when they wish to discuss their child’s progress. This should be done in the form of written request to the teacher. The teacher is responsible for forwarding the request or information to the principal. In this way, the principal is aware of the request for a meeting. After the request is initialed by the principal, the teacher will then contact the parent with the date and time.
3. If parents would like to meet with the principal concerning school matters, please call the office or come to school during school hours.
4. Parents are expected to inform the principal and classroom teachers concerning students having physical, emotional, or mental conditions that require special considerations/accommodations. In order to keep emergency information current parents are required to notify the school office, in writing, of any change of address, telephone, cell numbers or change of parental job information. If parents become divorced and custody of the child is part of the decree, a copy of the court decree must be secured of as part of the student’s file. This information should be an office document signed by a judge.
................ PARTY GUIDELINES
1. Please coordinate an agreeable date for the celebration with the teacher.
2. Cupcakes or cookies and small containers of drinks are recommended. Please do not bring cakes that must be cut.
3. Refreshments will be served after lunch. Food may be brought to the office earlier in the day.
4. Invitations to parties at home must include all girls or all boys in the class or the
entire class if the invitations are given at school.
5. Gifts, balloon bouquets, etc. are not allowed.
STEWARDSHIP
1. The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux embraces the concept of stewardship as the
total commitment of self to Christ. This is done through the sharing of time,
talent, and treasure.
2. MICS is very committed to family service to the school and the Church. To
encourage individuals to become good stewards, parents are encouraged to perform tasks that further the school's mission.
3. Stewardship can be served in many ways including the following:
Lunch Server Room Mom or Dad
Coaching School Yearbook Substituting
Just Say No Helper School Repairs Gardening
School Board PTC Time Snack Helper
Arts/Crafts Club Sponsor Take-home Projects
School Publicity Office Helper (phones) Book Fair Helper
Library Helper Recess Helper Bulletin Boards
Carpentry Electrical Help Computer Help
Church Council Buying Supplies Photographer
This list is not all inclusive-any talents that you have are welcomed!
MEDICATION POLICY
1. Parents are advised to give medication at home on a schedule other than school hours.
2. Students may not keep medication (including aspirin, cough drops, lip balm) in their pockets, purses, or school bags. Violation of this policy is a serious offense and appropriate disciplinary measures will follow.
3. If medication must be administered by parents during school hours, the parents shall be personally responsible for bringing the medication to school and, if possible, for scheduling the visit at the time least disruptive to the school day. If that visit can be times for one of our recesses, it would be important for the teacher to know in advance by written message.
4. If a parent comes to school to administer medication, it must be given to the child in the office.
5. In extraordinary circumstances and with special arrangements with the principal, parents may plan to have the student take his/her own prescription medication in the office or have an attending adult dispense medication provided the appropriate release of liability forms are signed by the parents. Parents should contact the principal or the office to make such arrangements in the event of seasonal colds, sinus infections, coughs, etc. for over the counter medications to be held in the office eon short term basis. The procedure in special circumstances will be determined in consultation with the parent.
6. Parents are asked to comply with these rules in the interest of all of the students. Please be considerate of all of the students and refrain from sending students to school when they have a virus or other contagious illness.
CHILD ABUSE/CHILD NEGLECT
The MICS faculty and staff are obligated to report any signs of child abuse or child neglect. MIS will follow Diocesan policies regarding abuses.
PARENTAL RIGHTS
1. The school MUST HAVE ON FILE copies of documents that limit parental rights.
2. Parents and students have the right of access to the student's personal records and
the right to request that statements be changed or deleted. If parents and/or
students wish to view personal records, a 24 hour notice is required. The
student's personal record or (official folder) will usually consist of academic
transcripts, academic testing, absentee records, health records and an emergency
sheet. A parent release of records form should be signed by parents requesting
copies of his/her child's academic records during the school year.
3. The school will not violate the rights of parents without legal documents.
4. MICS abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a 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.
The custodial parent is responsible for making arrangements with the school concerning who is to pick up the child.
5. Step-parents are not considered the legal guardians of children unless legal court
documents are provided to this school stating otherwise.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The school has the right to search any child or child's belongings if there is
serious concern about drugs, or weapons, or stolen property. Searches will always be done with a witness present.
STUDENT TERMINATION POLICY
Students and parents who accept the privilege of attending MICS accept the responsibility to respect and implement all school policies, rules, and regulations without exception. The MICS administrator reserves the right to refuse continued attendance for existing students whose parents do not conform to school policy, rules, and regulations. Any parent who continually makes unreasonable demands that can be viewed or interpreted as harassment on faculty, staff, and/or administration, will be required to withdraw his/her child from MICS. Tuition will be pro-rated and refunded at that time.
Maria Immacolata School follows the Guidelines set forth by the Diocese of
Houma-Thibodaux, the LA State Department of Education, and all drug/weapon
laws. It is the duty of the parent to be aware of the contents of this Handbook and the laws that pertain to the school environment.
Notice: "The principal retains the right to amend the handbook for just cause and parents will be given prompt notification if changes are made."
The administration has the authority to use discretion in unforeseen circumstances; policies are subject to interpretation by the administration.”