Contents:

Goals Academic Policies Accidents Admission Policies Announcements Asbestos Compliance Attendance Birthday Parties Books Buses Cafeteria Child Abuse Laws Child Custody Communication Confidentiality Crisis Plan Daily Schedule Dress Code

Drug and Alcohol Policies Electronic Devices Emergency Closings/Delays Expectations/Responsibilities Extended Day Program Extracurricular Activities Faculty Meetings Fees Field Trips Fire Drills Guidance Harassment Policies HIV/AIDS Curriculum Illness Immunizations (NYS) Lateness Liturgy

Lunchroom Money Non-custodial Parent Parent Organizations Promotion/Retention Policy Release (During School Day) School’s Right to Amend Security Smoking Special Learning Needs Staff Summer Camp Telecommunications Policy Use of School Grounds Withdrawals and Transfers Financial Policy Statement 2007 Tuition

St. Augustine Elementary School is part of the Archdiocesan Parochial School System of New York and, as such, is under the direction of the Superintendent of Schools, the pastor of St. Augustine Parish and the Dominican Sisters of Saint Mary of the Springs, Columbus, Ohio.

Our philosophy is to teach Catholic doctrine and to develop strong Christian values that give children a knowledge and love of God and their community. To achieve this we follow the student’s mental, physical and spiritual well-being as well as his or her intellectual development with the end goal being the development of a responsible, moral and caring individual within the faith community and the world at large.

Goals

The three-fold mission of St. Augustine School is to teach the message of salvation which the Catholic Church proclaims; to build community in the life of the church, and to encourage service to the church community and the entire human community. Our purpose is to integrate religion with the rest of living and learning so as to enable students to live as fruitful citizens in a society both locally and internationally. We aim to assist students in the formation of healthy and morally sound lifestyles as they grow in maturity and in their faith.

In the St. Augustine School’s environment we aim to meet the needs of children; to treat all with respect and dignity; and to recognize the school’s partnership with parents in their primary obligation to educate their children. Thus, our goals include the personal sanctification and social transformation of children by the transmission of Catholic Christian values and beliefs as they move toward their formation as responsible citizens.

2005 – 2006 Parent – Student rules

Academic Policies

St, Augustine School expects students to perform to the best of their ability. Teachers are expected to evaluate student progress on a regular basis. Students will be given quizzes or tests regularly. After the test is graded, it will be sent home for the parent to review and sign. Parent signature indicates that the parent is aware of the student’s progress. If a parent does not receive quizzes or tests to sign, the parent should contact the teacher.

Homework

Homework is an essential part of the instructional program and reinforces learning. It serves as a means for clarifying and reviewing material learned in class, for providing motivation and opportunity for individual growth, and for creating experiences of in-depth study and supplementary reading.

The time allotments for homework (written and study) are as follows

Grades Pre K & K	15 minutes
Grades 1 & 2	30 minutes
Grades 3 & 4	45 minutes
Grades 5 & 6	90 minutes
Grades 7 & 8	120 minutes

Students are required to complete all homework and it is expected that parents or guardians check their child’s work.

Grades and Grading

Report cards are distributed four times a year for Grades K to 8. Pre-K report cards are distributed twice a year. The report card is a link between the school and the home.

Academic Achievement

The first part of the Archdiocesan Report Card is used to mark the student’s achievement in academic subjects. The achievement mark is based upon the demonstration of mastery of material covered in class such as: 1. class work 2. homework 3. daily quizzes 4. unit tests 5. comprehensive examinations and 6. special projects.

The final grade in June on the report card is an average of the four previous report card grades. This final grade is recorded on the student’s permanent record card. Numerical marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 4 - 8; letter marks are recorded on report cards for Grades 1 - 3. For Grades 4 – 8, passing is any mark 70% or above. For Grades 1 – 3, passing is a letter mark of A, B, C, or D.

Character Development The conduct/effort mark is placed under Character Development as a “Conduct Grade”. This mark indicates that the student follows class and school rules, 2) shows care in the use of personal property, 3) treats teachers with respect, 4) treats other students with respect, 5) exercises self-control, 6) listens attentively, and 7) uses technology appropriately.

Honor Roll

The Honor Roll is a recognition of academic achievement.
Academic Criteria for Honor Roll:

Grades 1 through 3 - First Honors - A in every subject
Second Honors - B in every subject Grades 4 through 8 - First Honors - 93% average; no mark less than 90%
Second Honors - 90% average; no mark less than 85%

In addition, good conduct is a requirement to receive First or Second Honors. Therefore, a student must receive an A (excellent) or B (good) in conduct to be eligible for Honors. A student who does not receive an A or B in Conduct, will not receive First or Second Honors even though marks might warrant it.

Report Card Distribution

Report cards are distributed in November, January, April, and June. Report cards will be withheld if financial obligations have not been met.

Report cards may not be given before the assigned date. In the event that a student must leave school prior to the last day in June, the student may give the teacher a self-addressed stamped envelope and the report card will be mailed the last day of school, provided all financial obligations have been met.

Promotion/Retention Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student. Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives. If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade.

Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, may indicate that some students cannot follow the school’s complete course of study. Therefore, the decision to retain a student indicates that, although the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress. The decision of the principal is final regarding promotion and retention.

Assessments

In addition to class and school exams, your child will also take part in the Archdiocesan testing program which includes the Archdiocesan Religion test, annual standardized tests, and New York State Education Department assessments. These tests measure academic growth over a period of time.

Standardized Tests
ITBS	Grades 1-7	March
COGAT	Grades 2,4,5,&7	March
Archdiocesan Test
Religion Test	Grades 3-8	June
NY State Tests
English/Language Arts	Grades 4 & 8	4 Febuary 8 January
Mathematics	Grades 4 & 8	March
Science	Grade 4 & 8	4 February 8 Juanary,June
Social Studies	Grade 5 Grade 8	(5) November (8) June

The faculty of St. Augustine School reviews these test results regularly. These tests, in conjunction with classroom performance, determine promotion or retention, academic intervention services (AIS) for those who need extra assistance, and grouping for reading and mathematics.

Accidents

A student accident insurance fee is included in every child’s book bill. In the event of an accident at school you may obtain a claim form from the office. Please note that the school accident insurance usually is secondary to the parent’s own medical insurance coverage.

Admission Policies

Roman Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York base their educational purpose and all their activities on the Christian teaching of the essential equality of all persons as rooted in God’s love.

Thus, with discrimination so repugnant to their nature and mission, Catholic Schools in this Archdiocese do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, or gender in administration of educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

This policy is subscribed to by all Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New York whether owned or operated by the Archdiocese, the parishes of the Archdiocese or religious communities within the Archdiocese.

For admission to St. Augustine School, parents must complete the school application form and provide all required documents. Following evaluation of the materials, and an interview with the principal, parents will be notified about the status of the admission.

St. Augustine School gives preference in admission first, to siblings of currently enrolled students; second, to Catholic students whose parents are active members of the parish; third, to Catholic students whose parents are active in another Catholic parish; fourth, to non-Catholic students.

Announcements

Informational announcements are handled through the school public address system (PA). Courteous attention is expected when any message is presented over the PA system.

Asbestos Compliance

We are in compliance with AHERA. All of the asbestos is in good condition and is inspected every six months.

Attendance

Lateness: A child should come to school even though he/she may be late. All lateness is recorded and marked on the report card. Parents will be consulted about chronic lateness, and the child may be required to make up time missed.

Legal Absence: A child is legally absent from school for the following reasons: sickness, sickness or death in the family, impassable roads or extreme weather. All other absences are illegal. When a child is absent, parents are required to phone the school nurse (944 – 0826) by 9:00 A.M. When the child returns to school, an absence note must be given to the teacher. The note should have the child’s name, date of absence, class, reason for absence, and the signature of a parent or guardian. Absence notes are always required in addition to the phone call.

Appointments: Doctor or dental appointments should be scheduled for after school or on Saturdays. If it is necessary for a child to be dismissed during the school day, the school must be informed in writing ahead of time, and the parent/guardian must sign out the child in the nurse’s office in the log book.

Birthday Parties

Birthday parties for Grades Pre K – Grade 3 may be held monthly in each homeroom with the teacher’s permission. Parents should notify the teacher in writing. Parents may bring small individual items such as cupcakes, brownies, etc.. Parents may not bring in favors or “goodie” bags for the students. NO PEANUT PRODUCTS ARE ALLOWED DUE TO ALLERGIES.

Books

All books must be properly covered. Contact paper is NOT to be used to cover any books. Each child is responsible for keeping his/her books in good condition. Books that are lost or defaced become the liability of the student and his/her parents. If a book is lost or defaced, the school will bill the parents for the cost.

1. ASSIGNED TEXTBOOKS: When a textbook is lent to a pupil on a semi-permanent basis, the New York State Department of Education requires that:
   1. The pupil’s name be placed in the space provided in each book
   2. The teacher make a record of the number of the book
   3. The teacher make a record of the condition of the book
   4. In September, each child will put a clean cover on each textbook received. In June, all textbooks are collected, extra materials and covers are removed and the teacher evaluates the return condition.
   5. No 'book socks' for 6, 7, & 8
2. SUPPLEMENTARY BOOKS: When books are handed out to the children for use during a specific period within the classroom, they will be immediately collected after they have been read. If the book is to remain with the child for any length of time, his/her name must appear in the book and the teacher should have a record of this.
3. LIBRARY BOOKS: Books may be borrowed for two weeks. Books are charged to the child so that he/she will have the experience of signing out a library book and abiding by due dates. If books are returned late, there will be a five cents fine per day per book, payable by the child. All lost library books must be paid for so that the school can purchase a replacement copy. If the book is located after a new order is placed, the child may keep the old book since he/she has paid for it.

Buses

Busing is provided within a 15-mile limit to students from their residence. The public school district where the student resides provides this service. Bus discipline. Students and parents should consider riding on the school bus as a privilege and an extension of the school. Thus, students are to demonstrate a respectful, Christian, and safety-conscious attitude at all times on the bus. • Students should obey the driver and bus monitors at all times. • Students should do nothing to cause annoyances or distraction to the driver, as this places the safety of all in jeopardy. • In cases of extreme or persistent misbehavior, St. Augustine School will work in consultation with the public school district about possible consequences.

Cafeteria

The cafeteria is managed by Mrs. Cathy Maniscalco. Children may bring their own lunch or purchase lunch at school according to their wishes. If a child forgets his/her lunch money, the kitchen staff will lend the child money to purchase lunch at school. This money is to paid back to the kitchen staff on the following day. Children having outstanding debts will not be able to borrow additional money until debts are paid. No peanut products will be sold by the cafeteria and none should be included in products sent to school for lunches, bake sales or parties.

Change of Address

The office must be informed immediately if there is a change of home address or telephone number for purposes of mailing and/or emergency.

Child Abuse Laws

Under NYS law, school officials are responsible for reporting any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the proper agency. In so reporting, no allegation is made against a parent or care giver. Rather, it is a judgment by the school that the child may be presenting signs of abuse or neglect.

If the teacher or school nurse suspects abuse or neglect, he or she must immediately confer with the principal to discuss the aspects of the abuse and to determine which person on the school staff will report the alleged abuse to the proper agency.

Child Custody

Custodial parents are entitled to receive original sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc.

Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such parents may be asked to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.

Communication

Since as parents you are the child’s first teachers, you are our partners in education. Therefore, regular communication with you is an essential part of your child’s school experience. Scheduled parent conferences allow teachers and parents to discuss student achievement as well as to develop means to assist students in areas of difficulty.

A parent may request a meeting with a teacher at any time by simply sending a note to the teacher in question and the teacher will arrange for this meeting outside class time at a mutually convenient time. The meeting should take place in the classroom or someplace that insures privacy, never in a hallway or on the street. A parent who is refused such a meeting should notify the principal.

Confidentiality There is a professional and moral ethic that requires all persons to safeguard all information of a privileged nature. It is imperative that such information be regarded as a sacred trust. • If there is evidence or knowledge that could impact on the health or safety of any person, the teacher has the responsibility to share the information with the principal. • Under Section 423 of the Child Protective Services Act, school officials are required to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child coming before them in their professional or official capacity is an abused or maltreated child. The rules that govern privileged information apply, as well, to any personal or academic information that is discovered through daily classroom instruction or other social interaction with students, parents or peers. Always the sense of the sacred should prevail.

Crisis Plan

Should a crisis require evacuation from the St. Augustine School building, students will be brought to a safe place located at The Dobbs Ferry Middle/High School located at 505 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY and parents can meet them there. For further information concerning the crisis, parents can refer to the following: Radio On the Dial On the Internet WHUD 100.7 FM www.whud.com WFAS 103.9 FM www.wfasfm.com WCBS 880 AM www.wcbs880.com WINS 1010 AM www.1010wins.com www.staugustineschool.org

Daily Schedule

The following schedule will be observed by Grades K - 8:

7:40 AM	Enter School
8:05 AM	School Begins
11:15 -12:00 PM	First Lunch (Grades 6, 7, 8)
11:40 – 12:25 PM	Second Lunch (Grades 2, 3, 4)
12:05 – 1:00 PM	Third Lunch ( Grades K, 1, 5)
2:20 PM	Dismissal

Before 7:40 AM and after 2:30 PM St. Augustine School does not have staff available to watch out for problems on school grounds or to supervise children on school grounds. Students should not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:40 AM and parents must arrange pickup at dismissal times. IN THOSE INSTANCES WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS PRIOR TO 7:40 AM, PARENTS MUST PROVIDE FOR THEIR PROTECTION AND SUPERVISION.

To avoid interruption during the school day, any messages, forgotten lunches, books and boots, etc., must be taken to the OFFICE and not to the classrooms. The school office will see to it that the child receives these items.

Discipline Code for Student Conduct

Discipline is necessary for effective education to occur. Its purpose is to help students develop self-control, self-respect and respect for others. In addition to behavioral consequences, discipline includes positive reinforcement including friendly, tactful extolling reminders which shape acceptable behaviors. At no time is corporal punishment permitted. At no time is verbal abuse permitted. This includes name-calling, profanity, language that is threatening or intimidating.

Students are responsible for the rules of good conduct listed below. 1. Students will be respectful towards and obedient to all persons in authority (principal, teachers, teacher aides, lunchroom staff and monitors, custodial staff and secretarial staff). 2. Students will treat other students with respect and kindness. 3. Students will use appropriate language at all times. Obscene or profane language will not be tolerated. 4. Students will speak quietly and walk in an orderly manner inside the school building. Shouting, yelling and running in the hallways is not permitted. 5. Homework is to be completed daily. 6. Students are to treat school property with care. This includes desks, textbooks and bathroom facilities. 7. No gum chewing is permitted on school property.

Teachers will discipline students directly for infractions of the above Rules of Conduct. Failure to follow the rules will result in consequences such as, but not limited to, special assignments, lunch-time detention, denial of the privilege to buy lunch in the cafeteria or after-school detention. Note: When students are given an after-school detention, written notification will be sent to the parent, and the student will be expected to serve the detention on the next day that school is in session.

When rules are repeatedly disobeyed, teachers will contact parents either by phone or e-mail. If behavior does not improve, the principal will be notified. A conference will be held involving the principal, teacher, parents and student.

A suspension from school may be deemed an appropriate consequence for major infractions of the rules, such as, but not limited to: insubordination or disrespect to a teacher, fighting with a student, cheating on an exam, bullying or intimidating another student, possession of drugs or alcohol.

Dress Code

Your school uniform confirms your attendance at St. Augustine School and is a symbol of unity within the school community. It minimizes distractions in the learning process. It is important that you take pride in your appearance by wearing your complete uniform .

Girls K -- Plaid pants, yellow uniform blouse with round collar (peter pan)

Girls 1 – 4 -- Plaid jumper, yellow uniform blouse with round collar (peter pan)

Girls 5 – 8 -- Plaid skirts, and blue uniform golf shirt with pointed collar (In winter months, November thru March, students may wear uniform khaki pants)

Girls Grades K-4: Girls wear navy blue knee socks or tights and black, brown or navy shoes.
Grades 5-8: Girls wear navy blue knee socks, crew socks or tights and black, brown or navy shoes.

Sneaker type shoes are not permitted. No Shoes with wheels. No high top shoes or boots allowed. No jewelry is permitted. No makeup is allowed and only clear nail polish is permitted. Girls may wear navy blue, white or gold hair ribbons in their hair or simple barrettes.

Boys K – 8 -- Navy trousers (no corduroys, Dockers or baggies), belt, cardinal red golf shirts (long or short sleeves), black shoes. No sneaker type shoes, shoes with wheels or boots are permitted.

Gym Uniform: Navy blue school uniform shorts with the St. Augustine School name on the shorts, yellow St. Augustine School tee-shirt and sneakers. On the day the children have gym, they may wear their gym clothes under their uniforms. Students are allowed to wear sneakers on gym day.

Girls and Boys: Wearing anything that is a current fad is not permitted. During the cold weather, students may wear the authorized navy blue uniform sweatshirt or fleece top.

Personal Appearance

A good personal hygiene routine should be followed daily: ears, neck, and fingernails should be given special attention. When appropriate, children should be instructed in the use of deodorant.

Uniforms should always be neat and clean. All shirts must be tucked inside and a belt worn on boys pants.

Hair should be clean and well groomed. The boys’ hair should not be below the shirt collar. Bangs should not be so long that they impede vision.

Parents will be notified if a child comes to school consistently in an unkempt manner. If no improvement is noticed within a reasonable amount of time, an appointment with the parents and with the office will be made by school officials.

Drug and Alcohol Policies

In recognition of the seriousness of drug and alcohol problems to which the children are exposed, St. Augustine School will follow the policy as stated below:

• If a teacher suspects that a child is under the influence of either drugs or alcohol, the matter will be referred to the principal immediately
• The principal will verify teacher observation and will notify parents.
• Should it be determined that the suspicion is accurate, parents will be expected to follow the recommendations of the school principal if the child is to continue in the school.
• Any student who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug, and appears at a school function in questionable condition will be barred from attending or participating in that ceremony, a party, dance, or school outing. Parents will be notified and appropriate action will be taken.

Electronic Devices

Any electronic device such as cell phones, beepers, hand-held and other personal electronic devices that may distract the student, other students, or the class as a whole during the course of the school day is prohibited.

Emergency Closings/Delayed Openings

In case of a delayed opening or an emergency closing, parents should first check the St. Augustine website www.staugustineschool.org or listen to WHUD & WFAS radio. If the Ossining School District (www.ossiningUSFD.org) is delayed or closed, St. Augustine School will be likewise delayed or closed.

Phone calls to the school are strongly discouraged as tying up the phone lines to the school jeopardizes the safety of all during early dismissals and delayed openings and hinders timely communications with our school districts.

Expectations and Responsibilities for Students

Students attend St. Augustine School in order to fully develop their God-given talents and capabilities. To accomplish this, students are asked to:
• try to do their best work at all times.
• treat all members of the school community (i.e., teachers, staff, priests, parents and students) with respect.
• refrain from cheating, including plagiarism, whether from books, the internet or another person.
• obey all school rules and regulations, including those forbidding the use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or disruptive behavior.
• develop personal standards of conduct that reflect Christian morals and behavior, and refrain from use of inappropriate language, verbal threats, and sexual behavior (including touching, gestures, writing, and immodest or inappropriate dress).
• speak in a well-modulated tone of voice.
• observe the school dress code, including standards on no-uniform days.
• help care for school property and keep the school free from damage and defacement.

Extended Day Program

An extended day program is available. The program begins at 2:30 p.m. and ends sharply at 5:30 p.m. The cost of this program per day is $10.00 for one child, $17.00 for 2 children and $21.00 for 3 children. The extended day program is not held on half days. New policy: Payments for this program must be made either daily or on the last day of the week that the extended day program is in session.

Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to participate in the extracurricular activities of the school. Participation in these activities is a privilege. In order to participate in extracurricular activities, students must pass each subject on their report card and model acceptable behavior both during the school day and during the selected activity. Failure to meet academic or behavioral requirements will result in the student’s suspension or dismissal from the activity. Participation in these activities requires a commitment of both student and parent. Attendance will be taken at each activity to determine a student’s participation. In individual cases regarding participation in extracurricular activities, the principal holds the final determination.

Faculty Meetings

Faculty meetings are scheduled on the first Friday of each month, unless parents are otherwise notified. All children will be dismissed at 12:00 Noon on these days.

Fees

All fees should be paid on time. If there are outstanding fees at the time of report card distribution, the report card will be withheld until all fees are paid. Problems or difficulties involving finances must be taken up with the Pastor. Please contact him at the rectory (941 – 0067).

Families who do not attend Mass at St. Augustine Church and who do not contribute each Sunday will no longer be eligible for the parishioner rate and will be assigned the tuition rate for non – participating families. IMPORTANT: In order for a family to qualify for the parishioners’ tuition rate, parents must contribute a minimum of $15.00 in each Sunday envelope provided.

Families just moving into the parish and registering as parishioners may be given parish tuition rates at the discretion of the Pastor.

Your participation in ongoing religious, educational and voluntary programs of our school is vital to our school and to our children. We thank you for your cooperation and the support you give to St. Augustine School.

Field Trips

Field trips must serve an educational purpose and their value should be an integral part of the school’s instructional program. They broaden the students’ educational experiences. Field trips are privileges given to students; no student has an absolute right to a field trip.
• Field trips are designed to correlate with teaching units and to achieve curricular goals.
• Field trips vary on each grade level.
• Field trips are permissible when advanced planning, location, and the experience insure a successful learning opportunity.
• Individual teachers in consultation with the administration reserve the right to restrict or deny student participation on any field trip due to, but not limited to, poor academic performance and/or poor conduct.
• A written official permission slip, signed by the parent, is required before a child will be permitted to attend a field trip. Verbal permission cannot be accepted. Permission slips are due in the office 48 hours before the day of the trip.

Fire Drills

Fire drills at regular intervals are required by the law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the fire signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. Students are not permitted to talk during a fire drill and are to remain outside the building until a signal is given to return inside. Teachers will direct the students.

Guidance

A guidance program is a resource available to St. Augustine School students. Service may include counseling, psychological intervention and support for families experiencing change.

Guidelines for the Education of Non-Catholics

Parents must be made aware of the intentional Catholic witness in our schools. St. Augustine School as a Catholic school within the Archdiocese of New York has as its primary mission the formation of children in the Catholic faith.

All children will participate in the total academic life of our school, including religious education. According to the norms of our Church, it is expected that non-Catholics participate as fully as they can in the liturgical and prayer life of the school.

The religious educators of our schools are committed to teaching the fullness of revelation as it is taught by the Roman Catholic Church and as the life and doctrine are set forth in the Religious Education Guidelines of the Archdiocese of New York. While our teachers value ecumenical education, and respect the traditions of other ecclesiastical communities, they always teach within the context of fidelity to the doctrine and traditions of our teaching church.

Harrassment Policies

Harassment regulations are grounded in the belief that all persons have a right to be treated with dignity. All demeaning behavior is prohibited.

St. Augustine School provides a safe environment for all. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken seriously. Students making such threats, even in jest, face appropriate disciplinary action including detention, suspension or expulsion. Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior are subject to detention, suspension, or expulsion and, where appropriate, will be referred for counseling services.

HIV/AIDS Curriculum

The Archdiocese of New York and the NYS Education Department mandate that all schools are to give age-appropriate instruction on HIV and AIDS to all students in Grades K –12. The Archdiocesan schools use an HIV/AIDS rules developed and approved by the Catholic Bishops of the State of New York.

Schools under the authority of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York do not discriminate on the basis of HIV or AIDS. Students with HIV or AIDS shall not be excluded from school by reason of infection with HIV unless the following conditions are evident as determined by the student’s physician and parents (or legal guardian), together with the school administrator and pastor. The conditions are:
• The student is not toilet-trained or is incontinent, or is unable to control drooling.
• The student is unusually physically aggressive, with a documented history of biting or harming others.

Illness

If a child has a chronic illness such as asthma or a condition that warrants frequent use of the bathroom, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school and classroom teacher in writing in September so that we are aware of the condition.

Immunizations – New York State Requirements

New York State Immunizations Requirements for School Entrance and Attendance Pre-K 3 Diphtheria, 3 Polio, 1 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella, 3 Hib (or 1 Hib if administered > 15 months of age) and 3 Hepatitis B for children born on or after 01/01/95. K – 8 3 Diphtheria, 3 Polio, 2 Measles, 1Mumps, 1 Rubella and 3 Hepatitis B for children born on or after 01/01/93

Varicella Vaccine Required - Immunization against varicella (chickenpox) is now required by law. In 1999, Public Health Law Section 2164 was amended to require the following children to be immunized against varicella:
• all children born on or after January 1,1998 and are entering kindergarten in September 2005.
• children born on or after January 1, 2000 and are enrolled in any school. The administration of varicella vaccine in not recommended for children under the age of one.
Information on varicella vaccine was not required to be entered on the immunization survey form until September 2001.

Lateness

Student lateness interrupts the learning process for your child and all other children in that classroom. Any student arriving at school after the published opening time is considered late. If late, the student must obtain a late pass from the office to be admitted into class.

Liturgy

All students in Grades 1 to 8 will attend Mass one day a week and other times as indicated in the school calendar. Respectful participation of every child is required at school liturgies.

Lunchroom

St. Augustine School provides a hot lunch program. In order to participate in the state milk program, parents must complete a form distributed in September. Criteria for eligibility is noted on the form.

During the lunch period:
• Each child is assigned a seat in the lunchroom and is expected to remain in it until dismissed.
• It is the responsibility of the individual child to keep the area clean.
• Respect and obedience are to be shown at all times to lunchroom monitors.
• In good weather, the children go directly from the lunchroom to the play area.
• During inclement weather, the children report to the homeroom after eating.

Medications

If a student needs any kind of medication during the school day, the medication must be kept in the nurse’s office. A written statement from the parent or guardian requesting administration of the medication in school as ordered by the licensed prescriber is required. Medication must be presented in a properly labeled container. Prescription medication must be in the original container. On the prescription medication the pharmacy label should display student’s name and phone number of the pharmacy, licensed prescriber name, date and number of refills, name of the medication and dosage, frequency of administration. Medication should not be transported to and from school. Parents should be advised to ask the pharmacist for two containers – one for home and one for school.

Money

Money that is brought to school for a specific purpose (class trip, book fair, milk money, etc.) must be put into an envelope with the child’s name and grade and amount. Since snacks are sold on a daily basis students may choose to bring in small amounts of money (less than $5) for such purchases. If a student does bring money to school, the money should be kept on the student’s person and not left in the school bag, coat pocket, lunch box, or desk. The school cannot be responsible for lost money.

Parent

Release of Copies of report cards, school notices, etc. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school will provide a non- custodial parent with access to academic records and other school information regarding your child. If there is a court order specifying that this should not happen, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a copy of the court order.

Non-custodial parents are generally entitled to receive duplicate sets of report cards, school and special event notices, school calendars, etc. Such parents might be told to supply the teacher with self-addressed stamped envelopes for convenience and expediency.

Release of children Non-custodial parents may pick up a child only if previous arrangements have been made with the office.

Parents as Partners in Education

Just as the parents expect the school to provide the facilities and the trained personnel that are essential to their child’s proper development, so the school expects the parents to take an active role in the child’s education.

No school can be wholly effective in teaching the values of religion and the virtues of honesty, respect for authority, consideration for the rights and property of others, and standards of personal morality and integrity unless these principles are established, upheld, and valued in the home. If parents cooperate with the school, instill respect for the integrity of its teachers and administration, and actively support the school’s authority in the home, then the children will likely reflect the same positive attitudes.

Parents are asked to take an active role in their child’s education by:
• assisting their child in his/her academic and moral development by carefully reviewing class work, test results, progress reports, and report cards; supervising home study; and reinforcing school policies.
• explaining and reviewing periodically the school behavior code with their child. Parents should discuss school disciplinary episodes in relation to the school behavior code.
• recognizing their child’s talents and interests so they may be developed in cooperation with the classroom teachers.
• enforcing the dress code, including the gym uniform, and insisting that children dress according to Christian virtue.
• insisting on their child’s regular school attendance and punctuality and on complying with attendance rules and procedures.
• making all tuition and fee payments on time, and participating in fund-raising activities.
• providing proper supervision at home, and not tolerating harassment, inappropriate or violent behavior, or viewing of such in videos, movies, song lyrics, and on the Internet.
• teaching their child respect for law, for authority, for the rights of others, and for public and private property. This includes showing respect for the work of others by not tolerating cheating in any circumstance.
• arranging for a time and place for their child to complete homework assignments.
• working with the school in a cooperative effort to carry out recommendations made in the best interest of their child, including those related to educational evaluations and counseling.
• attending all Parent-Teacher Conferences and Home-School Association meetings.
• by always interacting in a respectful manner when speaking with or about the administration, teachers and staff of the school. Verbal or physical harassment may result in your child being asked to withdraw from the school immediately or not being allowed to re-register for the following year.

The education of a student is a partnership between the parents and the school. Just as the parent has the right to withdraw a child if desired, the school administration reserves the right to require the withdrawal of a student if the administration determines that the partnership is irretrievably broken.

Parent Organizations

A Home-School Organization provides an effective channel of communication between parents and teachers for the benefit of the students and the whole community. Its main purposes are:
• to create mutual support and understanding between home and school, and thus bring about a total learning environment for students
• to provide a means for keeping parents informed of school activities, programs, etc.
• to assist the school in meeting its financial obligations, primarily through fund-raising activities

Promotion/Retention Policy

Very few decisions we make about children are more important than recommendations to promote or to retain a student. Most students will be able to follow the school’s regular program of sequential learning objectives. If the student successfully achieves the program’s objectives, the student progresses to the next grade.

Testing, diagnosis, and actual performance, however, may indicate that some students cannot follow the school’s complete course of study. Therefore, the decision to retain a student indicates that although the school has done everything to help the student achieve success, the student has not made satisfactory progress. The decision of the principal is final regarding promotion and retention.

Release of Students (During School Day)

The school has a sign-out book located in the nurse’s office. When a student is released to a parent or guardian during school hours, that adult must sign the book.

Occasions for the use of the sign-out book are:
• for liturgies and services when altar servers leave school; the students will sign out and in
• for student illness, the parent or an adult designated by the parent must come to the school and take the child. It is against the law to dismiss a child during school hours except into the direct custody of a parent, guardian, or an adult designated by the parent. If the parent cannot be contacted, the secretary will contact the name listed on the child’s emergency contact card. Emergency cards are completed in September and must be updated as necessary.
• for a prearranged appointment when the student is released, the parent, guardian, or approved adult must sign the book. (Please note: only the principal may approve the release of a student for a prearranged appointment.)

School’s Right to Amend

St. Augustine School reserves the right to amend this rules. Notice of amendments will be sent as necessary.

Security

To assure the security of the building and the safety of each child, St. Augustine School strongly enforces its policy of requiring all visitors, even parents, to report to the office. All doors will be monitored during school hours/after school hours and all visitors will be required to push the intercom button located by the front door of the school in order to enter. To avoid interruption of the learning process, no one may enter a classroom without permission of the principal.

Smoking

New York State Law prohibits smoking in a school building and on school property. Smoking is prohibited at all times in the St. Augustine School building, on its parking lot and playing fields. This prohibition applies to faculty, staff, parents, and all visitors to the school.

Special Learning Needs

Students with learning differences are children of God and members of the Church. St. Augustine School makes every effort to meet individual student needs. Sometimes, however, a student may have needs that do not permit him or her to benefit fully from the program. In those cases your child’s teacher and/or principal may schedule a meeting with you to discuss having an evaluation of your child’s learning needs. Such evaluations can be done through the local public school district, i.e., Committees on Special Education (CSE’s), or privately. The teacher and principal will meet with the parents to discuss the results of the evaluation and the recommendations.

Summer Camp

St. Augustine School offers excellent facilities and equipment for a day camp: luscious grounds, playground facilities, computer availability, television, VCR usage, an air conditioned gymnasium, art facilities, etc. All of the above allows for creative fun and a wonderful time. The camp sessions begin on Tuesday, July 5th and end on Friday, July 29th. The camp runs daily from 9:45 A.M. to 2:45 A.M. This camp program is designed for PreK 3-year-olds through third grade students. Children may be signed up by the week.

Telecommunications Policy

A Suggested Rules and Code of Ethics for St. Augustine School is adapted from NCEA’s From the Chalkboard to the Chat room. 1997

As a computer user, I agree to follow the rules and code of ethics in all of my work with computers while attending St. Augustine School.

1. I recognize that all computer users have the same right to use the equipment; therefore, I will not use the computer resources for non-academic purposes.
2. I recognize that software is protected by copyright laws; therefore, I will not make unauthorized copies of software and I will not give, lend, or sell copies of software to others. I understand I will not be allowed to bring software applications, games, or CD-ROMS from home to be used on school equipment without proof of licensure and prior approval of appropriate school personnel.
3. I recognize that the work of all users is valuable; therefore, I will protect other’s privacy by not trying to learn their password; I will not copy, change, read, or use files from another user without prior permission from that user; I will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs for computer equipment; I will not use computer systems to disturb or harass other computer users or use inappropriate language in my communications.
4. Each student who receives Internet access will be instructed in the proper use of the network. The use of the Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of the school. Students using network or computer resources must comply with the appropriate rules for that network or resource.
5. Parents must realize that their students may encounter material on a network/bulletin board that they do not consider appropriate (vulgar jokes, statements of belief that some might consider immoral, etc.). The student is responsible for not pursuing material that could be considered offensive.

   As a user of a network, I will not use bulletin boards or chat lines for personal use. In addition, I will not reveal my personal information, home address or personal phone number or those of students, teachers or other staff members. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. The use of school computers and networking resources for commercial activities is not permitted. Their use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

6. The use of the computer is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in the cancellation of this privilege. Vandalism or intentional modification of system settings will result in cancellation of privileges and/or school disciplinary action. The school reserves the right to seek financial restitution for any damage caused by a student or other user. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific privileges.

Violation of the rules and code of ethics described above will be dealt with seriously.

Use of School Grounds

St. Augustine School does not have staff available to supervise students present on the school grounds before 7:40 AM and after 2:30 PM. Students should not arrive on the school grounds prior to 7:40 AM and parents must arrange to pick up at dismissal time. IN THOSE INSTANCES WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS PRIOR TO 7:40 AM, PARENTS MUST PROVIDE FOR THEIR CHILD’S PROTECTION AND SUPERVISION.

Withdrawals and Transfers

A transfer request form must be obtained from the school secretary. All books must be returned and all bills must be paid before records are transferred to another school.

St. Augustine School 2005 – 2006 Faculty and Staff

Pastor	Rev. Msgr. Hilary C. Franco, STD, JCL, MA SOC.		Parochial Vicar	Fr. Douglas Crawford
Principal	Sr. Mary Elizabeth Donoghue, O. P.		Asst Principal	Debbie Fessman
Pre-K 3	Anne Reilly		Eighth Grade	Maureen Daddazio Mary Kwan
Pre-K 4	Kathy Tarzia		Math 6-7-8	Debbie Fessman
Kindergarten	Barbara DelPreto Leanna Manwaring		Computer	Ann Godfrey
First Grade	Linda Herbek Anna Tramaglini		Art	Susan Lifschitz
Second Grade	Ginny Ferris Angela McMahon		Music	John Gallagher
Third Grade	Estel Matra Beverly Langdon		Physical Education	Andre Platt
Fourth Grade	Barbara Bushell Mary Haines		Library	Cathy Desmond
Fifth Grade	Sue Colleran Winifred Porpora		Secretary	Leone Stangle
Sixth Grade	Christine Schultz		Nurse	Virginia Diamond
Seventh Grade	Stefano Cascapera Miranda Marques		Spanish	Angela Hist
Reading	Jeanine Dinelli		CAI	Brigid Heichel
ADAPP/Guidance	Joanne Higgins		Library	Cathy Desmond

Officers of the Home and School Association are:

Financial Policy Statement for School Parents 2007 – 2008

St. Augustine School is a Parish Catholic School. The financial policy attempts to recognize the values of a Parish Catholic School by providing quality education and encouraging active participation in this parish community.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition is to be paid over a TWELVE month period (June 2007 – May 2008).
Monthly Tuition rates for Grades K – 8 are:

Number of Children	Parishioners	Non-Parishoners
1	$318.75	$484.17
2	$520.83	$844.75
3	$622.25	$1,110.83
4 or more	$715.91

Parishioner Status: St. Augustine School is supported spiritually and financially by the parish. In order to benefit from this status, families must act responsibly and support the parish. Families are expected to meet their Sunday and Holy Day obligations at the Church of St. Augustine and evidence this by actively participating in the envelope system.

Financial Hardships: Children will not be denied the opportunity to attend our school because of a genuine inability to meet tuition requirements. Families with financial difficulties should contact the parish office immediately (941 – 0067). Confidential arrangements will be made.

Temporary Problems: When tuition payments are not made on a timely basis, arrangements must be discussed with the parish office and a revised payment term established. In these instances, all tuition must be paid prior to the start of school for the next school year. . More Permanent Problems: When families are not able to meet tuition obligations, the need for assistance will have to be demonstrated to a confidential committee (selected by the Pastor) which will assess the claim and recommend a course of action to the Pastor.

Pre – Kindergarten Program: The Pre-K program is an optional program, the goal of which is to offer to our parents an early childhood program that focuses on the development of the whole child. Because it is optional, all children are required to pay tuition of $220.00 per month over the 10 month period August through May. No special arrangements can be made.

Penalties: It is important to the successful operation of the school and the Pre-K program that parents meet their obligations. Report Cards will be withheld if financial obligations are not met.

Special Notes for Parishioners:

• The policy of charging full tuition for registered parishioners who have neglected parish support will be enforced immediately and retroactively.
• Failure to pay tuition for more than two months may result in dismissal from the school, unless special arrangements have been made with the parish.
• Registered parish families who do not regularly attend St. Augustine Church will be considered as non-parishioners and charged the non-parishioner rate, even though their Sunday envelopes are mailed in dropped off at the School or Parish Office.

Fees

All fees are to be paid by September 21, 2007.

Instructional Fee:
Pre-K 3 and 4 $95
K - 8 $180

Computer Fee:
K - 4 $50
5 - 8 $75

Home and School Fees: $20 per family

Important Phone Numbers:
Parish Office/Rectory: 941- 0067
School Office: Phone 941- 3849 FAX 941 - 4342
Nurse’s Office: 944 - 0826
CCD/Religious Education Office: 941- 6663
Convent: 941 – 2316

Summary Statement

Once students have met the necessary admission requirements and have been accepted in St. Augustine School, the school warmly welcomes these students for the coming school year and will strive to provide them with a solid Catholic spiritual and academic education in a supportive learning environment. Students and parents must always be mindful that attendance at St. Augustine School is by invitation. It is not a “right” because this is a private school. Admission to and continued enrollment in this school include responsibilities regarding conduct, both inside and outside the classroom and school, and students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a credit both to themselves and to their school.

In order to protect its standards of scholarship, discipline and character, St. Augustine School reserves the right, and students and parents or guardians concede to the school the right, to require the withdrawal of any student at any time, for any reason deemed sufficient in the sole discretion of the school and its administrators. By the student’s attendance at the school, a student and his or her parents or guardians acknowledge the important obligations and restrictions contained in this rules and agree to be bound by the terms of this rules.

Students attending St. Augustine School relinquish certain rights they might otherwise be entitled to if they were attending a public school. For example, a student’s freedom of speech is limited in many important respects here at our school. Speech, either written or oral, contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, the teachings of the church or the directives of the local Bishop or Ordinary is prohibited, as is any other speech which is contrary or disruptive to the philosophy and purposes of our school. Another important right all students at St. Augustine School surrender involves searches and seizures. School administrators may search a student’s person and belongings if there is a reasonable belief, in the sole opinion of the school administrator, that contraband, illegal substances or inappropriate objects are being concealed. Any unauthorized items found may be seized. Additionally, student desks and lockers, which are at all times under the joint control of the school and the student to whom the desk or locker has been assigned, may be searched by school administrators at any time, for any reason or for no reason at all. Students should have absolutely no expectation of privacy with regard to any item in their desks or lockers.

Another important right that a student and his or her parents or guardians give up when they decide to have a student attend this school is the right to sue the school, the parish or the Archdiocese of New York, and/or any individuals acting on behalf of the school, such as the school administrators, teachers, staff or any of their agents for any matter relating to academic or disciplinary decisions or other matters covered within this rules. Each student and his or her parents or guardians, by their acceptance of enrollment at St. Augustine School agree to and accept the school’s rule and policy that students, parents and guardians may not bring any civil action in any local, state or federal court or in any administrative agency or body to challenge any school decision on academic or disciplinary matters, including any decision relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered within this rules. Students and parents or guardians agree that any challenge to any school academic or disciplinary action or relating to the rules, regulations, procedures or programs covered in this rules may only be challenged or appealed within the hierarchy of the school, subject to the limitations contained in this rules. This includes any decision relating to a student’s enrollment at the school or termination of that enrollment.

While any student and his or her parents or guardians are of course free to consult with legal counsel regarding any school decision taken with respect to a student, the school emphasizes that students and parents or guardians are not permitted to have legal counsel present during any meetings with school administrators. School administrators are not obligated to meet with legal counsel at any time.

There are several grounds for disciplinary action or expulsion set forth in the “Discipline Codes” section of this rules. It should be noted, however, that any listing of prohibited conduct is set forth by way of example only and to provide guidance to the student and his or her parents or guardians. It is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of improper conduct or resultant disciplinary action.