St. Therese School

Parkville, Missouri

Student-Parent Handbook

 

Purpose of Guidelines

St. Therese School is a Catholic Elementary School dedicated to educating young Christians and instilling in them the message of the Gospels. The purpose of these regulations and guidelines is to outline the basic directions necessary to insure good organization and order within our school community. We hope that this will be a handy reference for you during the school year. The cooperation of the administration, faculty, students and parents is necessary as we work to achieve our mission and goals for each school year.

St. Therese School Mission Statement

St. Therese School is a ministry of the parish that promotes students’ spiritual, moral and academic development within the tradition of a Catholic community.

St. Therese Core Values:

The opportunity for shared responsibility

Practiced and developed Catholicity

Spiritual and Academic Potential of all students

Accessibility of Catholic Education within a Parish Community

Resourcefulness and excellence

St. Therese School Statement of Philosophy

We believe that each student has unique God-given gifts. It is through a broad based challenging curriculum integrated with Catholic Christian values that the total life experience of the child is enriched. Through our ministry, a student’s spiritual, intellectual, moral, social and physical potential will be developed.

Learning is a shared responsibility between the home and school that is an ongoing process. We believe all learning is connected and can best occur if past experiences and prior knowledge are considered when addressing the needs of each student.

Through diverse curricular and extra-curricular programs, students receive the tools that develop their ability to reason and make responsible decisions. These programs develop an understanding and respect of individual differences as well as an awareness of the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship.

It is through these beliefs that we will provide the foundation for each student to make a contribution to our community and the global society as they enrich their relationship with God.

St. Therese School Goals

• To nourish the continued development of each individual's faith life through the sharing of Christ's life and teachings.

• To support student's endeavors to integrate their beliefs with their decisions and actions as they acquire self-esteem and become self-disciplined.

• To provide an environment which will encourage and enable students to explore and develop their creative, intellectual, spiritual, social and physical talents.

St. Therese School Motto

Living a Faith . . . Building a Future.

Accreditation

St. Therese School is accredited through the Missouri Chapter of the National Federation of Nonpublic School State Accrediting Association.

Education Committee

The Education Committee is a policy making board directing the educational program of St. Therese School. The Committee is subject to regulation from the church, pastor and the guidelines from the Diocesan School Office.

Membership of the committee consists of nine lay members, the pastor and the principal of the school.

All regular meetings of the Committee are scheduled for the third Thursday of the month and are open to members of the parish. Personnel, individual students and other confidential matters are discussed in closed sessions as determined by the Board President. Notice of each regular meeting will be published in the parish bulletin and the school calendar.

Education Committee Members for 2005-2006

Ann Lachowitzer- President Jennifer Steele Steve Quinn Renee McKeon Laura Thompson Andy Anderson

Annie Rixey Brian Burns PJ Storm

St. Therese School & Diocesan Policy Manual

The St. Therese School & Diocesan policy manuals are documents, which address specific areas related to administration, personnel and curriculum of the school. Copies of the St. Therese and Diocesan Policy Manuals are available for review in the school office.

Admissions Policy

It is the mission of St. Therese School to offer a quality Catholic education to the children of the parish community. All parents are expected to tithe to the parish, pay all school fees and meet fundraising requirements as set forth later in this manual. Parents should be practicing Catholics with a tithing history for student admission.

Students are admitted to St. Therese School in the following priority:

• Parishioners with children currently in the school.

• Parishioners with a first child reaching school age.

• Parishioners who have moved into the parish with children who have attended Catholic school elsewhere.

• Parishioners with children in other schools.

• Catholic students from other parishes.

• Non-Catholic families.

All families are expected to accept financial responsibility for the church and school by honoring the financial admission requirements and the enrollment timetable set forth by the parish finance office. Admission priority is contingent upon the fulfillment of the requirements specified above.

Students with special needs are admitted to St. Therese per Diocesan Policy 300.3

An annual review of student needs and our ability to meet them is held with parents. St. Therese does not have resources to meet every need, however, we will work to meet needs as far as possible. For admission and continued enrollment, students must be able to function in a classroom setting and be independent in personal care skills.

All transfer students are admitted under a probation basis. A review of academic, behavioral, and overall student individual needs will be conducted after forty-five (45) days. The provisional status may be continued if deemed necessary by administration.

Diocese of Kansas City – St. Joseph

Parent – Teacher Covenant

Because our school strives to be a faith community, parent cooperation and good parent-teacher relations are essential. As members of a faith community, our first instinct is to assume that all of us, teachers, administrators, parents, guardians and other care-givers, have the child’s best interest at heart.

While our school is excellent in many ways, no one within our community is perfect and problems and misunderstandings will occur. When a problem or disagreement arises, we will make every effort to contact you to clarify the situation. Parents, guardians and family members who experience problems or are confused with some matter regarding your child’s educational experience, are asked to show similar respect by: a) striving first to learn the reasons behind the policy: b) inquiring about the teacher’s or school’s understanding or decisions before judging or forming an opinion. Those who are not satisfied with what they have learned are asked to approach the administration to investigate the matter. In this way, positive resolutions can be reached.

Parents and guardians are asked to follow these guidelines for expressing concern over a school matter:

1. If the problem involves routine procedures such as homework, class assignments, classroom or playground behavior, or student-to-student problems, then the parent is asked to contact the teacher first. The best way to do this is usually through a phone call to the school where a message will be give to the teacher to return your call. For a variety of reasons, parents should not attempt to bring up a difficult or serious matter in front of other students while the teacher is on duty during the regular school day.

2. If the problem is more serious, the parent or guardian should inform the principal in writing or with a phone call. Only signed notes or callers who identify themselves will be taken seriously. Due to school responsibilities, the principal may not be available immediately; therefore, patience in setting appointments or in expecting a return phone call is requested. Since concern for your child is uppermost in all our minds, we will make every effort to accommodate you and your concerns. We simply ask that you understand that many children and other parents may also be requiring our immediate attention at the time.

3. All staff members of our school promise prompt attention to problems, privacy in discussing matters, professional courtesy and respect when problems are presented, and a sincere effort to resolve problems in a Christian manner. That is, we promise to approach problems and misunderstandings in a manner that expresses genuine concern for the welfare of your child spiritually, psychologically, academically, and physically and also the welfare of his or her fellow students.

4. With this in mind, parents and guardians are expected to show the same concern and respect for the staff our school, as well as the other children and families of our community. The following behaviors, therefore, are unacceptable within our community: We will not tolerate assaults or harassment of a staff member, student, parent, guardian or family member. Nor will we tolerate intimidating or verbally abusing any member of the community – in person or in writing.

5. Commission of any of the above acts on the part of a staff member will lead to appropriate disciplinary actions. Likewise, misconduct on the part of a parent, guardian or family member may lead to a warning or one of the following actions: a) limiting or refusing permission to enter or use school grounds or facilities; b) asking that someone other than the person exhibiting poor behavior represent the child’s interest on school matters; c) refusing to allow the child to re-register, and in extreme cases, initiating procedures to ask the family to withdraw the child from school.

We rely on the good faith and the sincere efforts of everyone in the school community to keep the spirit of this covenant so that we may become the genuine faith community, which we strive to be.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

St. Therese School admits students of any sex, race, color, national and/or ethnic origin and grants to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities accorded to students of the school. (This concurs with Diocesan Policy 300.2)

Desegregation Position

The following represents the policy of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph in regard to racial integration of students.

The Diocese sponsors and promotes racial integration of elementary and secondary schools. The purpose of the Catholic School is to assure that truths and values of the Catholic Faith are fully incorporated into the academic program and into the lives of the students. Catholic schools emphasize the broadening and enriching of educational opportunities afforded in culturally and racially mixed schools. Catholic schools shall not accept applicants seeking to avoid the orderly implementation of court ordered desegregation of public schools of any school district. (Diocesan Policy 300.20)

School Finances

St. Therese is a tithing parish. All parishioners are encouraged to support the church with 5% of their gross family income. Tithing enables the parish to provide Catholic education as a ministry for those in the parish community.

School Fees: School Family Fees (per family) $ 315.00

Registration Fee (per child) $125.00

All School Fees must be paid during the first week in August.

Fundraising Requirements

In order to support the education program of St. Therese, we implement one fundraising project annually. Because of its continued success, both financially and by patron support, St. Therese sponsors an Auction each spring. Each school family will make a commitment to support the school's auction by soliciting items for the auction and participating on an auction committee. Those families that do not choose to commit to the spring auction are required to "buy-out." Buy-out amount and fundraising commitment are determined each year by the parish business manager.

For those families who choose to participate in the Auction, these are the requirements:

1. Agree to sell/buy (no returns) 4 auction tickets at $10.00 each.... Total $40.00

2. Agree to sell/buy (no returns) 12 raffle tickets at $5.00 each.... Total $60.00

3. Agree to solicit $200.00 worth of auction items through the coordination

of your committee chairperson

Total Fundraising Commitment: $300.00

or

Agree to a Fundraising Buyout of $300.00 to be completed in January.

**All solicitations of auction items (donor forms) need to be completed by the specified deadlines.

All information regarding the auction deadlines will be available through the weekly Principal Notes, which go home every Thursday.

***AUCTION -- SATURDAY, April 1, 2006***

 

Academics

Curriculum: Our curriculum is derived from Diocesan guidelines, meets state standards and is shaped by the creativity of our teaching staff. The general curriculum per grade area is as follows:

 

Kindergarten Pre-reading skills, letter recognition and sounds, introduction to basic sight words; upper and lower case printing; number sense skills, introduction to number sentences, counting, calendar skills. Science and social studies skills based on themes. Learning reinforced through the use of centers, manipulatives and cooperative learning. Faith studies: We learn how Jesus loves us and we can share his love through our behavior and service to others.

 

Grade One Language arts fundamentals are presented through the strategies of: guided reading, phonics, writing and self-selected reading. Saxon Math Program enables all children to develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of all areas of mathematics. Science and social studies are integrated through the language arts program. In religion we come to know God as our loving Father and learn basic Catholic practices.

 

Grade Two Mastery of basic reading and phonics skills; cursive handwriting; double digit math and regrouping, place value, number sense, time and money; science and social studies special units; sacramental preparation; and beginning writing processes. We study about Jesus and His great love for each of us and consequently how we treat others

 

Grade Three Mastery of regrouping two and three digit numbers, introduction to multiplication facts and the division process; problem solving and data interpretation. Reading instruction includes reading fluency and comprehension with an emphasis on reading for information in the content areas. We enhance the writing process by focusing on paragraph writing and summarization. Science and social studies are studied on a unit basis; Catholicity is studied as it is modeled throughout the community. We introduce basic church doctrine and rituals are reviewed.

 

Grade Four Reading comprehension skills, daily grammar practice, writing process, figurative language, multiple digit math, multiplication and division number sense, problem solving strategies; Missouri history, a states unit, mapping skills, organizational skills, physical and earth science with hands on experiences, research skills. We focus on God’s commandments and the beautiful meaning of the beatitudes.

 

Middle School Teachers in grades 5-8 specialize in a particular curricular area and students move from class to class to benefit from more in-depth knowledge and practice. Homeroom teachers take primary responsibility for their grade level students and reinforce those particular students’ spiritual development.

Lower Middle School

Grade Five U.S. History including geography and economic structures; life and earth sciences; communication arts encompassing grammar, higher level thinking and questioning skills, comprehension and writing skills; mastery of three digit multiplication, long division, problem solving and basic geometry. We teach organization skills, handling multiple tasks and time management. We emphasize the sacraments and study the Mass as our central form of Liturgy.

Grade Six Basic math operations including geometry, algebraic concepts and problem solving; ancient civilizations, earth sciences; history’s impact on society; geography; language arts and literature including grammar, writing skills, critical thinking skills, reading comprehension and vocabulary development. We begin a deeper understanding of the Old Testament and Hebrew Scriptures. We develop a strong sense of social justice.

Upper Middle School

Grade Seven Early explorers and settlement in North America; life sciences; literature and language arts skills including grammar, writing and analysis; author writing styles; paragraph development; refinement of basic math skills and pre-algebra. We grow to know the person of Jesus and the New Testament.

Grade Eight Civil War history through current events; physical sciences, chemistry and physics; novel based literature; critical thinking and writing skills; mastery of eleven sentence paragraph format; algebra I. We learn about the history of the Church and the Church as being the people of God as well as participate in parish and community outreach. We author and illustrate a book and write autobiographies.

Other Opportunities

All students are offered music, art, Spanish and physical education. K-6 students are offered regular classroom instruction in computers and all students have access to a state of the art research lab and media center. Fine arts opportunities include band for 7th & 8th grade students and all grades participate in musical productions appropriate to age levels. Upper middle school art offers several electives. Students are exposed and encouraged in multi-cultural learning at all grade levels.

Special Services

Special services are provided to students who qualify for Individual Education Plans through the public school district. There are two certified resource teachers on staff; one working with grades K-4 and the other with grades 5-8. Students meeting the criteria are provided an Accommodation Plan with goals, objectives and modifications to support the student with their academic needs.

Quest: Enrichment Program for High Potential Students

An enrichment program is available for high potential students in grades 3-8 during the school day. This enrichment program is designed to meet the needs of students who can learn more rapidly and can handle more abstractions, complexity and depth in learning. These learning opportunities are designed to integrate a variety of subject areas within a real project, product or situation. Students are given the opportunity to learn and apply a variety of problem-solving strategies in a "student centered environment."

Student selection is based on the Renzuli Triad that includes: above average ability (top 10% on achievement tests), motivation and task commitment, and creativity. Teachers and parent recommendations are considered.

Quest is provided on a private contractual basis.

Other Programs:

Family Life, Technology Education, Peace & Justice, and Drug Awareness are an

integral component of the general curriculum for all grade levels. During the sixth and seventh grade students will participate in a specially designed peace and justice curriculum.

Family Life, required by the Diocese, is designed to support the role of the parent as the primary educator of their child and will actively involve parents in the process. Family Life at St. Therese is in accordance to Church teachings and doctrine.

Grading Scale: The following grading scale is used for grades 3-8

A+ 100 C 75-82

A 94-99 C- 74

A- 93 D+ 73

B+ 92 D 70-72

B 85-91 D- 68-69

B- 84 U 67 and below

C+ 83

Beginning of a student's 5th grade year, students who receive a yearly average of a "U" will be required to "make-up" that class (es) before advancement to the next grade level. Parents will be notified by the teacher at mid-term during the 4th quarter if their child needs summer remediation. Provisions to do so will be determined by the principal.

Student grades are based on Test Scores, Homework Assignments, Special Projects/Activities, etc. Class participation is considered in all areas of the curriculum but is a larger percentage of the student's grade in the areas of Art, Music, Physical Education, Religion, & Computer. Data supporting participation will be gathered each day in these classes.

Homework: The purpose of homework is to provide every student an opportunity to independently practice/review skills taught in the classroom setting.

Regular homework correlates with academic success and will be an integral component of St. Therese's educational program. Because homework is to be beneficial for each student, it will be the responsibility of the principal, teachers, students, and parents working together to make it an effective practice.

Students who are absent because of family vacations/trips may request homework before leaving. However, it is up to the individual teacher to decide if it is possible in their subject area to give work early. Any work requested before leaving is due the day of return. If homework is not available before leaving or not requested, it is the student/parent responsibility to request missed work upon returning.

Due dates for assignments given during an absence will be determined by the number of full days a student is absent from school. (Example: a student that is absent for two days will have two days to complete the missing homework assigned during the absence) These same guidelines apply to tests, assigned detentions, etc. Students are still responsible for collecting assignments and turning in homework when class periods are missed due to partial day of absence. Arriving late or being checked out early result in a partial absence. There are no extensions of due dates in this case.

Making up work: Homework may be requested on the second day a student has been absent. Because of time constraints, teachers are not expected to compile homework assignments for students on their first day of absence.

Student Papers: On a regular basis teachers will send home examples of your child's work. Please review with your child the samples of his/her work. This is one of the best means to get a regular idea of your child's school progress.

Students are expected to be involved in some form of independent practice each school night. The following guidelines will be used:

Kindergarten 5-10 minutes per night

1st - 2nd Grade 15 minutes per night

3rd Grade 25 minutes per night

4th Grade 30 minutes per night

5th Grade 40 minutes per night

6th Grade 50 minutes per night

7th and 8th 1 hour per night

Homework activities should not only be written assignments/projects assigned by the classroom teacher but should include:

• Silent Reading from text or library books

• Review of notes, textbook materials, math facts, etc.

• Involvement in Current Affairs (watching National/Local newscasts, reading the newspaper, watching public TV programs or special presentations

• Working on long-term projects or activities.

*HOMEWORK IS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY.*

Principal's Responsibility

• Monitor teacher homework practices

• Assist teachers with students who fail to be consistent with homework

Teacher's Responsibility

• Plan appropriate homework activities with grade level partners

• List Daily homework assignments in a place visible to all students

• Inform parents of long-term projects/activities assigned as homework

• Provide students with feedback regarding homework in a timely manner

Student's Responsibility

• Record daily assignments

• Take needed materials to complete homework with them when they leave

• Read, review notes, practice skills on nights written homework is not given

• Have homework complete by the beginning of each class period.

• Request assignments missed when absent from school upon return

Parent's Responsibility

• Provide a place and time for study

• Supervise schoolwork done at home

• Question your child, ask to see recorded assignments, ask to see completed work

• Stress quality work and deadlines

• Outside activities should be supervised and curtailed in order to help students with homework.

• Prioritize academics and extra-curricular activities.

• Sign homework as requested by the teacher.

**Students who consistently struggle with completion of class work or homework will be placed on a structured program.

Long Term Homework Assignments / Projects: Teachers will notify parents of long-term homework assignments/projects. Parents and students will receive the following information.

1. Objective / purpose of project

2. Time line for completion including target dates for various phases when applicable

3. Criteria for assessment

Middle School Homework Guidelines:  Homework is to be handed in at the beginning of the class period. If homework is handed in the next day’s class period, the highest grade that can be achieved is a “C”. Any homework turned in two or more days late will receive a zero. ALL HOMEWORK MUST BE HANDED IN.

 

Please note: It's a parent's responsibility to allow children to accept consequences for forgotten homework. If your child forgets his/her homework, lunch, or other materials at home, please help them learn personal responsibility and do not bring it up to school unless prior plans were made. If you need to drop off something for your child during the day please leave it at the front desk. The student will be called up to the office during natural breaks such as lunch and recess times or may pick up items in the office during these times. This will help keep classroom distractions to a minimum. Please help us honor instructional time in the classroom. Adults are to refrain from bringing items to classrooms and walking their children to their rooms during the school day; 7:45-3:10.

Field Trips

A field trip is a way to enhance or enrich the school's curriculum and the student's learning experience. Teachers who plan field trips are responsible to provide pre and post-trip activities in order to assure a positive learning experience.

General Guidelines:

· Students must be transported by bus for all classroom fieldtrips. Any exceptions must have the express written permission of the principal.

· Field Trips are for the students.

• Parents can support the teacher's efforts by chaperoning the children. At all times the teacher is to be in charge and will set the expectations for the children.

• Children are not required to attend grade level field trips. Parents must notify the classroom teacher in the event they do not want their child to be a participant.

• Students who do not attend a field trip are required to be in attendance at school or they are considered absent.

Attendance

CLASSES BEGIN AT 7:45AM

• Regular attendance of students is required by law and is a most important factor in determining their school progress. Irregular attendance and tardiness disturbs the learning sequence, lessens the child's interest, slows progress and in some cases can be considered child neglect.

• Any student who misses four (4) hours of school will be counted absent. When a student is absent for two hours it will be counted as a half-day absence.

• Perfect attendance will be given to those students who have no absences, no partial absences and no more than 2 tardies.

• Parents are to CALL THE SCHOOL OFFICE NO LATER THAN 8:00 AM TO NOTIFY US OF A STUDENT'S ABSENCE OR LATE ARRIVAL. This is to be done each time a student is absent from school.

• Parents who do not notify the office will receive a call verifying student absence.

 

Parent contact is required by phone, email or note, for each absence.

(email address for absences: attendance@sttheresenorth.org)

 

Absence and Tardies

The principal will monitor student attendance throughout the year. Every effort will be made to work with parents to insure regular daily attendance as required by law.

• Parents of students that accumulate 10 absences, 10 partial absences, and 10 tardies will be contacted by Administration.

TARDINESS

Diocesan policy 325.4 Tardiness

Consistent or habitual tardiness is a serious offense. In the case of consistent or habitual tardiness, the school will conference with the parent(s) or guardian(s). In some cases, where tardiness continues to be a problem, it may be necessary for parent(s) or guardian(s) to explore other educational options in order to ensure that the child's educational needs are being met and limited interruption in the educational environment is maintained for teachers and other students. If appropriate, the proper authorities with the State of Missouri will be contacted.

Please note: 10 tardies in a semester are considered serious.

A student is considered tardy if they arrive in classrooms anytime after 7:45 AM. Middle School students are considered tardy when they do not arrive to their assigned class when designated. Students who are tardy will report to the school office immediately to obtain an admittance slip. Students will not be allowed in their classrooms without an admittance slip.

Medical Appointments: (Doctor, dental, orthodontist, etc.) Arrangements for such appointments should be made during the first or last hour of school or before/after school hours. Doctor, dental, orthodontist slips must accompany the child upon return to school.

 

Federal Hot Lunch Program

 

 

 

 

Our School Hot Lunch Program is provided for all students throughout the school year.  St. Therese follows institutional, health & safety guidelines set forth by the State of Missouri Food Services Division and the Platte County Health Department.

                                                           

Lunch Menu:  Lunch menus are prepared by the Food Services Manager and are published each month and attached to the monthly Parent Newsletter that goes home the last Thursday of every month.  Monthly lunch menus are also posted in each classroom, the cafeteria and the school website.  Parent’s and guests are welcome to eat lunch with students.  Any parent, visitor or volunteer that plans to eat the school’s hot lunch must call the school office the morning of to order a hot lunch before 9:15am.  If your child is going to arrive after 9:15am, and a hot lunch was not called in and ordered, the student must bring a cold lunch.  This includes all students arriving late for doctor and dentist appointments etc.  This helps with having an accurate lunch count and to control shortage of food.

 

Lunch Prices & Payment Procedures:  The cost for a hot lunch or chef salad (chef salads are for Middle school students (5-8) & adults only) is $2.25 per student.   The cost for all visitors, including children visiting, is $3.00.  Prices include milk or juice.  Students providing their own lunch may purchase a milk or juice for $.25.  Hot lunch payments should be made in the following manner:

 

•    Students should purchase lunches in quantities of five or monthly.  Money is collected by each classroom teacher in the morning and sent to the school office for posting.  Please include child(ren)'s name, classroom and number of lunches being purchased for each child on the envelope.  Please send one check per family.

 

When paying for lunches with personal checks please make checks payable to St. Therese Cafeteria.  Do not include in the amount, field trip money, book orders, school fines, etc.  Checks that include such items will be returned.

 

No lunch charging is permitted.  Students who are not prepared to purchase a lunch or have a cold lunch will be provided with a substitute lunch.  The substitute lunch will consist of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with milk.  There is a 25 cent cost for the milk.

 

No competitive lunches ie. fast food may be brought into the cafeteria during lunch times (10:30-1:00).  This includes all foods and pizza parties for the school children during these times.

 

Students "brown bagging " lunch are not permitted to bring pop.   Students are not to bring food or drinks in glass containers with their lunches or to have fast food items brought in for their lunch.

 On Noon Dismissal Days only - Hot Lunch will not be served.

 

Communication

 

Communication between all members of the St. Therese School Family is essential in maintaining an effective educational program. It is the responsibility of administration, teachers, and parents to keep each other informed and to actively listen in order to develop and maintain effective communication.

Communication through students: A great deal of information, mail, personal items, etc. are brought to the office daily to be sent home with students. Things that are sent home with students through the school must be school related and approved by school administration.

Parent Concerns:  Throughout a school year parents may have questions/concerns regarding classroom policy, discipline, homework, grading, etc. It is essential that these concerns be directed to the classroom teacher first. The principal will be available for questions regarding school policy, discipline, etc. and questions/concerns that could not be resolved through the teacher. Appointments for conferences may be made at any time during school hours.

Parent Newsletters: Throughout the school year information will be addressed by means of monthly parent newsletters. Parent Newsletters issued through the school office are sent home with students on the last Thursday of each month with the main parent newsletter, which includes a calendar, lunch menu, special bulletins, etc. Please read your newsletter as you receive them. Deadline to submit materials for the newsletter is the Friday before the next outgoing newsletter.

Principal Notes: Throughout the school year weekly communication of on-going events of the school will be sent home on Thursdays. On the last Thursday of the month this is incorporated in the parent newsletter.

Please note: All correspondence/communication will be sent home on Thursdays only.

Mid-term Reports: The Mid-term report is used to keep student and parent aware of the current progress and the need for improvement or continued effort prior to a grading period. All students in grades K-8 will receive a Mid-term Report for each quarter to be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to school the next day.

Kidows – The school website and communications are hosted by Kidows/Sycamore Leaf Education. This is a web-based service for school families. School calendar, teacher websites and communication tools are found here. Parents will be given a family code which will allow access to your childrens information. Kidows@sttheresenorth.org

Parent-Teacher Conferences: Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled in the fall. These are student-involved conferences; parents, students, and teachers are active participants. Students are involved in conferencing as developmentally appropriate. Throughout the school year teachers are available before and after school for conferences by appointment. Please make an appointment ahead of time.

Report Cards: The report card is an important means of communication. These are issued approximately every nine weeks. Parents should be mindful that an important section of the Report Card is the section indicating the effort and attitude of the student, along with the needs for improving or continuing quality work.

Students who withdraw early at the end of the school year will not be issued their report card. Report cards can be picked up at the school office after the last day of school or they will be mailed on request. Report cards may be held by the school office for various reasons (finances, fines, detentions, etc.)

Parent Forums: At various times throughout the school year, parent forums may be planned. The purpose of these meetings is two fold: it is an opportunity for the school administration to present new programs, changes in policy, etc. prior to initiating and it is an opportunity for parents to give input, to ask questions and to be actively involved in school planning. All parent are encouraged to attend the forums. It is one of your best means of being a part of the shaping of St. Therese.

 

UNIFORM POLICY

If you are in doubt of the acceptability of a student's dress, please call the school office for clarification.

SHOES: Boys and Girls

                    Student must wear a dress or tennis shoe with non-marking soles.

No platform shoes, no open toe shoe and no open heel shoe of any kind may be worn.

SOCKS: Boys and Girls

                                                    Navy or white only. Socks must cover the ankle. No logos on socks.

                                       Girls may wear navy or white leggings, tights or knee-hi style socks.

PANTS: Boys and Girls

Navy only – uniform style. Uniform style pants and/or shorts are defined as cotton, twill, or cotton/twill mix, with slant pockets in the front, buttoned pocket(s) in the back and straight legs. Corduroy, knit, baggy, cargo-style, zippered, multi-pocketed, and/or denim pants will not be considered uniform style.

Pants must not be faded, ragged or have holes in them.

Belts are encouraged on all pants and/or shorts with belt loops.

Pants may have elastic in waist but it must conform in style, color and fabric to uniform pant.

SHIRTS: Boys and Girls

                                                    White plain shirt for all grades, must be sleeved and have a collar. If wearing an undershirt it must be plain white

                                       Shirts may not have a logo except the STS logo.

                                       Grades K-4 may wear a dark green spirit sales shirt or sweatshirt with STS logo.

                                       Grades 5-8 may wear red spirit sales shirt or sweatshirt with STS logo.

Grades K-8 may wear white spirit sales shirt or sweatshirt with STS logo.

All shirts must be an appropriate length to tuck into pant. Shirts must be worn tucked in, not rolled or partially tucked.

SHORTS: Boys and Girls

                                                    Navy only, uniform style. (uniform style as described above)

Length must be between the bottom of the knee and three (3) inches above the knee.

                                                    Shorts may be worn in August, September, October, April and May.

SKIRTS/JUMPERS: Girls

                                                    The Dennis plaid pattern remains as uniform.

                                       Girls wear plain colored shorts under skirts on PE days. (no boxers)

Length must be between the bottom of the knee and three (3) inches above the knee.

                                       Grades K-2 wear jumpers

                                       Grades 3-4 option skirt or jumper

                                        Grades 5-8 wear skirts

SKORTS: Girls

                                                    Navy only, uniform style and fabric.

Length must be between the bottom of the knee and three (3) inches above the knee.

SWEATERS/SWEATSHIRTS: Boys and Girls

Students may wear only the white, green or red spirit sweatshirt with the STS logo purchased through the PTO. (color depends on grade level)

Students may also wear navy uniform cardigan from Dennis.

Sweatshirt or cardigan must be worn with a uniform shirt.

OTHER:

                                                    Girls in grades 7-8 may wear light neutral colored makeup with parent approval.

                                                    Jewelry - One religious medal or symbol necklace may be worn only.

                                                     Girls may wear post earrings only, no dangling or hoops.

Hair style/color must be non-distracting to child and others as determined by teacher or principal.

The dress for any field trip will be the school uniform, unless otherwise specified by the teacher.

NON-UNIFORM DAYS: Boys and Girls

On days designated as “Spirit Day,” students may wear appropriate seasonal non-uniform clothes.

Clothing that shows skin when arms are raised above the waist are not acceptable.

Shirts or tops must be of modest length. NO TANK TOPS!

During the months August, September, October, April, and May shorts lengths must be between the bottom of the knee and four (4) inches above the knee.

Appropriate slogans only on t-shirts or sweatshirts.

 

ST. THERESE DISCIPLINE PLAN

The mission of Catholic education is to proclaim the mission of Jesus and his Church. Catholic education is faith-based in the Gospel, communal and person-centered. Therefore, all disciplinary philosophies, procedures and actions must meet the following criteria:

1. Discipline shall be rooted in the Gospel.

2. Discipline shall promote the welfare of the school community.

3. Discipline shall care for the person of each individual in the same manner, as would Jesus.

4. Discipline shall include appropriate parent/guardian involvement.

5. Discipline shall be rooted in the St. Therese mission statement and core values.

 

ST. THERESE EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

· Do your best

· Give service

· Be courteous

· Take care of each other

· Show personal responsibility

· Learn from mistakes

· Be a peacemaker

DEVELOPMENTAL BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

Kindergarten Students entering Kindergarten should be able to sit for a five-minute session and follow a two-step direction. Throughout the year they should grow to being able to listen and wait, focus on project or teacher as directed, and show evidence by behavior that they know when talking and listening are appropriate to the setting. Children should understand personal space (hands and feet to self) and begin to use problem- solving techniques to deal with conflicts. Children should be able to make the transitions of room –to- room and task- to- task

Grade One The first half of the year we concentrate on teaching appropriate self discipline to students. Skills that children are mastering include: keeping hands and feet to themselves, being courteous to adults and peers, replacing aggression with problem solving strategies, developing more consistent self- control, in areas of blurting out, attending for 15 minutes, taking responsibilities for own actions.

Grade Two Students should be able to raise their hands before speaking, show respect for themselves, classmates, teachers and school property. They should be able to move quietly through the halls and follow teacher directions. Students should be responsible for homework assignments and demonstrate personal safety.

Grade Three Students should be able to stay in seat and complete a task. Working independently in Third Grade means that one should try to read directions before asking for assistance. Children should be able to move through transition times without disruptions. This would include moderate voices as necessary in hallways, cafeteria and in the classroom.

Grade Four Students are expected to follow written and oral directions, be prepared for class (homework finished, pencils, paper and books in order) and show respect for self, peers, and adults. Students should be able to demonstrate Expectations (above) without prompting.

Middle School (grades 5 – 8): Students are expected to speak politely to one another and treat each other kindly. They are also expected to follow teacher requests and follow all school rules. Student should always be prepared for class with pen, paper, books, assignments and any other needed materials. Assignment notebooks should be filled out daily and tests, quizzes and papers that are sent home should be signed by parents and returned the next day. Each student should show effort to the best of his/her ability and ask for help when needed.

 

PROCEDURES All teachers will follow these general procedures in handling discipline issues however each classroom will also have specific procedures which will be explained to parents on Parent Information Night for each grade level.

1. Skills for self- discipline will be taught (modeling, role play, lessons)

2. Teachers assign a consequence for inappropriate behavior. (document)

3. Teacher assigns consequence and contacts parent about behavior.

4. Conference with parent, student and teacher (inform administration)

5. Teacher refers student to office. Administration, teacher, parent and student will work toward solution and appropriate consequence assigned.

6. A behavior plan to work toward remediation of the problem will be developed by the student, parent, teacher and Administration. If progress is not shown to the satisfaction of the Administration more serious consequences including possible expulsion may be considered.

It is the responsibility of the entire school to model acceptable behavior. Certain behaviors qualify as serious unacceptable behavior and should not be tolerated. Among the behaviors, but not limited exclusively to these, would be the following:

1. Disrespect for principals, teachers, aides, other adults or peers.

2. Abusive or unacceptable language.

3. Fighting

4. Bullying

5. Bringing onto school premises or concealing on person illegal substances, pornographic material, laser pointers, or weapons of any sort, or facsimiles thereof.

6. Willful destruction of school property.

7. Stealing, cheating, or plagiarism

8. Making threats in any way regarding the safety of students or staff, or regarding destruction of property. (A student may be disciplined for real as well as false threats.)

9. A pervasive attitude of generalized disregard for school policy, personnel, or property.

10. Sexual harassment (see 340.32, 340.33)

11. Harassment of any nature toward another person or group of people.

12. Any gang behavior or activity.

Any serious violation of the discipline code shall be addressed promptly.

 

Student will be immediately referred to the school administrator. The student will be detained until the teacher that made the referral can be present for a conference. The principal and teacher will determine a consequence. Parents will be notified. Consequences that will be considered may include detention, ineligibility from extra-curricular activities, in-school suspension. A plan of action or contract will be developed, implemented and monitored.

 

Expulsion of a student shall meet on of the following criteria

(Diocesan Policy 340.44)

1. Other avenues of remediation of the unacceptable behavior have been exhausted.

2. The moral and /or physical well being of the student and /or school community is at risk.

3. The student in question exhibits prolonged and open disregard for policy, personnel, fellow students and /or property.

Final determination of expulsion rests with the Principal.

Expulsion should rarely be a surprise and should be considered a last recourse. Prior to expulsion serious effort must be made to help the student change his/her behavior.

Proper legal authorities may be called if an action violates law.

 

General Student Guidelines

Arrival & Dismissal

• Children being dropped off between 7:15 and 7:30am should go directly to the gathering area by the front doors. Classroom doors will open at 7:30am. All students will go directly to their classrooms. Classes begin at 7:45am for all students.

• All students should leave the school premises promptly at dismissal time, 3:10pm, unless legitimately detained for a school sponsored or scouting activity. Students MUST be picked up no later than 3:25 PM. The school office should be contacted if a late pick-up time is expected. Children on school grounds after 3:30 PM will be charged the extended care drop-in fee unless arrangements have been made.

• Whenever possible, the school will notify parents ahead of time about any change in regular school hours. Changes will be noted on the Monthly School Calendar and on the website.

School Extended Care: Student before & after school care program is available for students at St. Therese K - 6. Extended Care is open everyday school is in session and on days school is closed if the parish office is open. Fees, program activities, guidelines, etc. are published in the Extend Care Manual available through extended care and the school office. For more information contact the program coordinator at extension 322.

Care of Property: Textbooks, desks, lockers, personal items and all school property will be respected and handled carefully. All damaged property or materials of the school, church, or others will be paid for or replaced by the student. All Hardbound Textbooks Must Remain Covered During The School Year.

**Gum use is a major maintenance problem, therefore any student chewing gum on school grounds or eating candy/snacks without approval will have a $10.00 gum/candy fine due at the end of the week.

Use of Technology: The school assumes responsibility for student use of computers anytime the student is at school and will provide appropriate consequences for misuse. However, we cannot act on or take responsibility in anyway for misuse of technology not done at school.

Daily Time Schedule: The following schedule will be used:

7:30 AM Students may enter classrooms

7:45 AM Students must be in their classrooms Morning prayer, Pledge and Announcements

3:05 PM Announcements

3:10 PM Dismissal of Students

Emergency School Closing:

 Weather forecasting is an inaccurate science at best, so we deem it important to communicate St. Therese School procedures to be followed in event of severe weather or a major structural malfunction.

• The decision to cancel school due to severe or threatening weather for St. Therese School will be made by the school principal in conjunction with the Northland Catholic Schools.

• Parents have the right to keep their children home when they feel that weather conditions pose a threat to their children's safety.

• When school is closed; information regarding closing will be broadcast by the radio stations or TV channel 9. The announcement will be "Catholic Schools Clay-Platte Elementary ” will be closed."

• Check the school webpage sttheresenorth.org

• Efforts will be made to have the same announcement made on TV, channel 9.

• If school has not been canceled and you deem the weather too severe for your child(ren) to remain at school, you should feel free to come to the office to check your child(ren) out.

• Normally we do not dismiss due to weather once school is in session. Simply come to the School for your child(ren).

• Please do not call the school office to ask if we are dismissing.

An official designated by the school will make a phone call to each school family in case of a major structural malfunction. Should the problem occur prior to the school day or after we are in session, be assured a phone call will come to the parent or designee on the Student Emergency Call Card. Make certain your child(ren) knows what they need to do should it be necessary to close school once the school day has commenced. It is wise to have one or two alternate homes to go to in the event you may not be available. The faculty will check with each child to make sure he/she knows where to go. We will instruct the students to come to the office if they are not sure what they should do. We will then telephone you.

Library: The use of the Library is a privilege.

• Students in grades K-8 are responsible for all books checked out. Library books will be due on a weekly basis. If needed, students may renew with the Librarian.

• Lost or damaged books must be replaced by the student. The librarian will provide information regarding replacement costs for both damaged and lost books. Money will be due to the Library.

• Students will lose the privilege to use the library if they have any overdue books or lost books until that situation is cleared.

• Any library charge not taken care of will result in holding students report card. If lost books are returned by June 1st, replacement cost will be refunded.

• All library books are due at 8:00am, the morning of the due date and will be returned as a class via the library aide.

Lockers:

• Middle School students will be assigned a locker to store books, coats, supplies, etc.

• All lockers are the property of St. Therese.

• Students are expected to keep their lockers clean & neat.

• Locks may not be placed on a locker. Since valuable personal items brought to school are to be turned into the homeroom teacher, there is no need for locks.

• Lockers maybe inspected at anytime throughout the year. Teachers may check the contents of their homeroom students' lockers. Teachers wishing to check a student's locker from another homeroom must have that homeroom teacher present or prior approval from the principal.

• Decorating locker (both inside and out) must be in good taste and approved by the homeroom teacher.

Lost & Found: All students’ clothing, lunch boxes, book bags, etc. should be clearly marked with their last name. When possessions are marked this way, there will be less confusion with lost articles. Unclaimed items are donated at the end of each quarter to a local charity if the items are not claimed.

Middle School Social Activities: Middle School is not a miniature High School. Activities planned must be age appropriate and well chaperoned. During the school year St. Therese Parish sponsors chaperone "mixed" social events for the Middle School students.

The school administration and school board suggest:

"Parents refrain from organizing or allowing their children to attend mixed parties or other mixed social events that are not sponsored by the school or well chaperoned. It is hoped that parents will concur with the school's belief that rushing children into activities related to secondary education can be developmentally and/or socially detrimental."

Money Brought to School:

• When it is necessary for students to bring money to school, please place it in an envelope and clearly mark on the outside student's name, grade, room number, and purpose for which the money was intended.

• Upon coming to school, the student should turn the money in to the person responsible: teacher, cafeteria, library, or school office. The school is not responsible for lost money prior to being turned into the appropriate person.

• Older students should always carry a purse or wallet with them when it contains money.

• At No time should money be left in lockers, desks, etc.

Personal Items:

· PETS – Live animals ie. Dogs, cats, birds, turtles…are discouraged from visiting the school. Pre-arranged teacher approval, for an outside pet visit, is required.

· Students are NOT to bring personal items (toys, radios, walk-mans, baseball cards, etc.) to school without prior permission from their teacher or the principal. If permission is given, the student is responsible for the item; the school will not be responsible for any personal items brought to school.

· Items brought to school with prior permission must have the student's name clearly marked on it and must go home at the end of the day.

· Items brought to school without permission will be confiscated and held in the school office until the student's parent picks the item up or until the last day of school.

Recess Guidelines:

• All students, grades K - 6, participate in recess or an outside break.

• Students are expected to be properly dressed for outdoor activities. Hats, coats, gloves, and boots are necessary during winter weather.

• When severe weather, rain, or wind-chill of -10 degrees occurs, outdoor recess will be canceled.

• All students must follow the directions of the teachers on duty. Entering and leaving the building before and after recess should be orderly and quiet.

• Restrictions due to prior illness - If a student is too ill to go outside, it is recommended to keep the student home until full health returns. If a parent wishes to have their child(ren) to stay in from recess the school will make accommodations for One (1) day only. Requests for more than one day will have to be accompanied by a written note from a doctor. Students with existing, current, chronic medical conditions that prevent being outdoors during cold weather must have a doctor's note on file with the school office.

• Playground Equipment - Each classroom is supplied with playground equipment at the beginning of the school year. Bringing play equipment from home is unnecessary and must have approval from the principal. Any equipment that may be dangerous in nature will not be allowed.

School Supplies: The school makes available a student supply list for each grade level prior to the opening of school; see the St. Therese School website. Students are expected to have needed supplies.

Student Messages:

• Parent messages to their children should only occur in the event of an emergency or sudden change in plans. Asking the school to remind your child of some event or set of directions that you have already discussed with them hinders office operations and does not assist your child in developing responsibility.

 

Health & Safety

Shelter in Place: If you come to the school and we are practicing a drill, the school will be locked and you will have to wait until the drill is finished for admission. If you are in the building during a drill, please join people in your area as they go to their safe place.

In the event of a real emergency, parents will receive a call to inform them of the designated safe spot to pick up their children. Please check the school website as well.

Fire & Tornado Drills: Any school drill for the safety of the students must be viewed by all as serious. Directions will be given to the students by their teacher regarding correct procedure for evacuation and safety. Full cooperation will be expected from all students and adults in the buildings at the time of the drill.

 

HEALTH ROOM / STUDENT ILLNESS:

• Temperatures are taken when a student feels ill and reports to the Health Room or School Office. Students with temperatures of 100 degrees or greater or who are vomiting or who have diarrhea, will be sent home and may not return to school until fever free, diarrhea free, and vomit free at least 24 hours. Parents or guardians who send students back to school before 24 hours will receive a phone call from the school office to come and pick up their child.

This regulation will be enforced throughout the school year to help prevent other students from becoming ill. Parents must pick the child up or the Emergency contact person will be notified.

• If a child is injured during the school day, he/she will be taken to the Health Room where the child may be "watched" or minor first aid applied. Parent contact will be made if any injury is suspected to be serious.

• Students in need of band-aids, ice packs, and a little "TLC" are able to come to the Health Room. Teachers will notify the school nurse when students are being sent to the health room.

· Students with any significant medical diagnosis, i.e. asthma, seizure disorder, diabetes, migraine headaches, bleeding disorders, severe allergic reactions that might require treatment during school hours must have a physician prescribed care plan for the current school year on file at the school. Any pertinent medication and supplies that may be required for the student must be supplied to the health room, along with a signed release to administer such medication, for the current school year. Appropriate care plan forms can be obtained at the school.

• Immunization records and current health information are kept on file in the Health Room. The school nurse conducts yearly vision & hearing screenings, height & weight checks, and schedules scoliosis screenings for students. Head-checks for lice or other health related screenings are handled through the Health Room as needed.

Immunization: St. Therese School complies with the State of Missouri Immunization laws.

Immunization requirements are as follows:

· Students entering Kindergarten must have all required immunizations, including the varicella vaccine, completed before the first day of school.

· Students in first grade must have received 4-5 doses of DTaP/DTP with the last dose on or after the fourth birthday.

· Students in first through eighth grade are required to have two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (MMR, MR, or measles vaccine).

· Students in grades K – 8 must have completed the hepatitis B series.

All students must be properly immunized and have current and accurate immunization records on file in the school. Any student who does not comply shall not be permitted to continue in school until he/she does comply. Some exemptions are allowed. The appropriate exemption card must be on file.

Insurance: Student accident insurance is included in the Student Fee. This is a supplemental coverage to your own insurance. File all claims with the parish business manager.

Medication: St. Therese School complies with the rules and regulations of the State of Missouri and the policies of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph in regard to distribution of Prescription and Non-prescription medication. (Diocesan Policy 460.4)

• Non-prescription medication is not dispensed by the school except upon written authorization of a student's physician. (Note: Non-prescription includes Advil, Tylenol, cough medicine, cough drops, chapstick, calamine lotion or any kind of ointment, and any over the counter medications that may be used during the school year.) All medicines are kept in the school office.

• Prescription medication is dispensed only if:

1. It is not the first dose

2. Medication is in prescription container

3. Written authorization from the parent is on file

• Only the nurse, office staff or administration will give medication to the child. The school does not supply aspirin, Tylenol, etc. for student use. Parents of students with chronic need requiring such items must supply the school.

Other Emergencies: In the event student's safety is in danger as a result of such emergencies as gas leaks, bomb threats, etc., the entire school will be immediately evacuated to a safe area. Local authorities will be notified and the school will follow the directives set forth by them. Students, staff, and all others will not re-enter the building until local police or emergency personnel issue an all clear.

PARKING:

Parking Lot Safety:

• Vehicles driving fast or recklessly or parked in designated "No Parking" areas will be reported to the local police for immediate action.

• Parents are to remember:

~Please follow posted One-Way signs

~Do not park on crosswalks or walkways

~When dropping off children, proceed with caution, drive slowly keeping a 5 mph speed limit.

~Drop-off students at designated areas only.

~Designate a pick-up point for your children ahead of time.

~Have your children walk to your car, instead of the car moving to them.

~When teachers are present, follow their directions.

Drop-off procedures: Enter at the designated entrance and circle around the back of the church. Form a single file line in the front of the building. Someone will guide you to stop and start. Children would preferably exit the car on the curbside. If you need to come into the building, please park and walk in on the sidewalk to the main entrance. Cross traffic at the designated crossing only where teachers are stationed. Please have children ready to get out quickly so the line can move efficiently.

 

Pick-up procedures: The parish has only one entrance and one exit. Please help us maintain our one-way traffic pattern! Please park all cars facing the courtyard. We will monitor exits and entrances. Agree on a spot in the lot where your child will know where to find you. At dismissal (3:10) we will let children go to the cars. All traffic movement will stop until they are in cars. This takes 5-10 minutes. Once we see it is safe we will open the exits and you may leave as directed by the staff.

Students who enter or leave school entrances other than those designated will receive a detention. Parents who enter school to pick up their children must exit the front door and use designated crosswalks. When your children are with you, please be a model to them in regard to these guidelines.

 

Release of Students: When it is necessary for a child to leave school before the normal dismissal time:

• A written note must be given to the teacher and/or school office prior to the departure time. A note is not required in cases of emergencies.

• A parent, guardian or designated person (must be an adult) must come to the school office and sign the student out before the student will be released. The student will be called to the office by the school staff.

• Adults, other than the child's parent or guardian will be asked to verify their identity with picture I.D. before the child(ren) will be released.

 

St. Therese Education Center

Smoke Free Environment: St. Therese School and all its surrounding grounds is a smoke free environment as set forth by board policy. All individuals attending, visiting, or working within the school environment are restricted from smoking.

Visitors:

• All visitors must check in with the receptionist upon arrival.

• Parents are more than welcome to visit the school and any classroom during the school day. Please contact the school office or the principal prior to your visit. Parents who wish to observe in their child's classroom must make arrangements through the office at least 24 hours in advance and must comply with school procedures during the time they observe.

• Children visitors of students (cousins, siblings, former students, etc.) may make arrangements to visit St. Therese. All visits must be approved by the classroom teacher and the principal at least 24 hours prior. No more than a half-day visit will be considered.

School Organizations

PTO/School Association: All parents are members of the PTO. St. Therese is an effective school because of the active participation by all parents. Some programs sponsored by the PTO include Cultural Arts Programs, Spirit and Pride Committee, Parent Education Speakers, Spirit Sales, Parent Mentors and Skating Parties.

PTO Officers for the 2005-2006 School Year

Casey Merker President

Candace Ott Vice-President

Rosalie Kenney Co-Secretary

Cindy Michalek Co-Secretary

Kathleen Rechsteiner Treasurer

Dana Blowers Co-Historian

April Roberson Co-Historian

PTO Board Meetings & PTO General meetings are held once per month and are listed on the School's Calendar located in the monthly parent newsletter.

Parent Volunteers: All volunteers are required to have a current background check on file before they volunteer. These are updated in the year the Principals formal review.

PTO SKATING PARTIES

• This event is held on the evening of designated spirit days. The skating party is held at River Roll Skate Center in Riverside from 6:00PM - 8:00PM. Cost is $3.50 per student.

• The PTO has designated chaperones for this event, but parents are to stay at the skate center while their children are there.

• Skating parties will take place unless a storm advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service.

• Spirit day dress code should be followed at all skating parties.

Spirituality

Prayer: Involving students in prayer is an important aspect of each school day. Students will be lead in prayer each morning, before class periods, before lunch and at dismissal time. Students gather in their Commons for communal prayer during Advent and Lent.

Student Liturgies:

· Students will participate in all school masses scheduled for each Thursday. Mass will be at 8:30 AM.

· Students are to be seated in church no later than 8:25 AM. Students may sit with family members during school liturgies if parents are present in church at the time of the student's arrival.

· We ask you to help us model proper church behavior.

Parents who wish to participate in student liturgies in any way (Eucharistic Minister, musical accompanists, etc.) are encouraged to contact the school office or their child(ren)'s homeroom teacher. We welcome your participation.

Student Service: Our school's mission statement directs each of us to help bring one another into a "living faith life." This becomes possible as we live each day of our lives like Jesus Christ. Providing service to others is an active means to be more Christ-like and to fulfill the mission of our school.

Students at each grade level will be involved in service to others through class and school sponsored activities. Parents are asked to give their support and involvement in these activities. Class service projects include; Kindergarten – RCIA, First Grade – parish baptisms, Second Grade – Parish shut-ins, Third Grade – Holy Childhood, Fourth Grade – corresponds with nursing homes, Fifth Grade – St. Vincent de Paul Daycare, Sixth Grade – Ronald McDonald House, Seventh Grade – Harvesters and Eighth Grade – Vincent de Paul.

  St. Therese Athletics

St. Therese participates in the Parochial League of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and is governed by all its policies. Information about the League can be found at the STS website under athletics. Each sport is run by a coordinator and the athletic director. Questions and concerns should be addressed first to the coach, then the coordinator, athletic director and finally the principal.

Athletic Director – Bill Freund

Volleyball - Marie Geiger / Bill Bolling

Basketball - Joe Summers

Track - Marie Sirridge

Student Athletic Program

The St. Therese School Athletic Program is an integral part of the total educational program consistent with the aims and objectives of the school. Emphasis in our programs will be the individual student, his/her physical growth and self-esteem and participation in a worthwhile learning experience. (Parochial League 4-8; St. Pius League non-competitive 3rd grade)

Athletic Programs:

Volleyball Girls, grades 4-8 (fall)

Boys, grades 4-8 (spring)

Basketball Girls, grades 3-8

Boys, grades 3-8

Track & Field Boys & Girls, grade 4-8

The school will comply with all guidelines set forth by the Diocesan School Office and the Catholic Conference Board. A copy of the Diocesan Athletic Policies & Guidelines are available for review upon request. The Principal will monitor the compliance of these. Questions or concerns in regard to compliance should first be directed to the Athletic Director. The Athletic Director will report directly to the principal.

Parent Participation: In order for a student to participate in a St. Therese Athletic Program, their parent(s) must volunteer their services. All parents of students participating in the school's volleyball and basketball program are required to volunteer time and service to athletic functions such as concession stand, gate, scoring and clock.

Coaches: All coaches of teams sponsored by the school must be

• at least 21 years old

• interested in the health and safety of all players and the development of sportsmanship and teamwork

• Certified by the National Youth Sport Coaches Association

• Approved by the Athletic Director and school's principal

• have a background check on file before the season begins

A coach of a St. Therese Sponsored Team will be expected to:

• Attend all practices and games or have at least one adult present

• Teach fundamental skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork to all players

• Adhere to all league rules

• Submit information as may be requested by the athletic director or the principal

• Conduct a player/parent meeting at the beginning of the season to explain participation, rules, eligibility, parent responsibilities, etc.

• Conduct themselves at all practices and games in a manner that projects a positive image of the school and sets an example for the players

• Assume responsibility for uniform and equipment inventory

• Communicates to the athletic director or principal any incident or concern involving a St. Therese athlete, parent, or coach

Student Eligibility: All students must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to participate in a school sponsored extra-curricular activity.

• All students are required to have an athletic waiver form or physical examination prior to the first practice.

• Attitude/Behavior: Students must display Christian Behavior at all times

• Attendance: Students must be in regular attendance to participate. Students must be in school the day of an extra-curricular event.

Academics: Students must be performing to their academic potential as determined by the student's teacher(s) and the principal. A minimum grade of C- will be expected in each class. If a teacher feels that a student is working to the best of his/her ability and still below a C- then the principal has the discretion to allow the student to participate.

Ineligibility:

• Students who are unable to meet or choose to disregard eligibility standards will not be allowed to participate in their extra-curricular activity.

• Ineligibility will be for one week from Tuesday to Tuesday. After one week the principal will review the student's progress and determine whether to reinstate or continue ineligibility status. Students who do not make significant progress or become ineligible more than two times will be conferenced with the teacher and administration to determine status.

• Any use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs will result in ineligibility for one semester. Also, students caught cheating, stealing or engaging in any other gross misdemeanor can be recommended to be ineligible for one semester.

This handbook is provided by St. Therese School. The school principal retains the right to amend the handbook for just cause. St. Therese parents will be given prompt notification if changes are made.