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“From the first moment that a student sets foot in a Catholic school, he or she ought to have the impression of entering a new environment, one illumined by the light of faith and having its own unique characteristics, an environment permeated with the Gospel spirit of love and freedom….”

                                    The Religious Dimension of Education in a Catholic School, #25

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Peoria are established to assist the Bishop and Pastors in the transmission of the faith to the young people of the diocese.  We welcome non-Catholic students into our schools who wish to take advantage of the opportunities provided by Catholic education.  Every school must have as its main goal to help each student develop a personal and ecclesial relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, who is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6).  The principles, practices, and beliefs of the Catholic Faith must be fully integrated throughout the school’s curricula, service projects, co-curricular activities, and culture.

Students in our Catholic schools are reminded of their dignity as children of God through the study of Catholic doctrine, frequent opportunities for personal and communal prayer, and active participation in the sacramental life of the Church.  Together with parents, the primary educators of their children, our Catholic schools pursue academic and spiritual excellence by helping students to develop their intellectual abilities, foster wholesome friendships, practice discipleship, strengthen their daily prayer life, grow in virtue, and become leaders through serving others.

All personnel that work in our Catholic schools must have at heart the promotion of the educational mission of the Church, and live as visible role models of faith within the parish/school community.  Catholic doctrinal, moral and social teaching is an integral part of each school.  Therefore, all faculty, staff, administrative, and volunteer personnel must support the teachings of the Church, actively practice their faith in daily life, and be loyal to the Church’s Magisterium.  Our Catholic school personnel share this educational mission and its various commitments and responsibilities with parents and the local Church communities.

“It is crucial that the policies and procedures of Catholic schools reflect that primary purpose and that the Catholicity of the school and its faithfulness to the teaching authority of the Catholic Church (Magisterium) are not compromised.”

                                                            Sister Mary Angela Shaughnessy, SCN, J.D., Ph.D.

As part of the evangelization mission of St. Mary’s Parish, St. Mary’s School is dedicated to teaching children to know, love, and serve God, to developing their spiritual, academic, social, and physical gifts, and to promoting responsible Catholic Christian citizenship.”  (Commission on Education, 12/12/06)

 SCHOOL MOTTO

 To know.  To love.  To serve.

St. Mary's School is a Catholic co-educational community where human culture and knowledge illumined by Faith is shared and where students are helped to develop a sense of God, a sense of responsibility, a sense of direction, and a sense of mission.

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The faculty assumes the responsibility of assisting the parents, who are the prime and foremost educators of the child, in educating the whole child while preserving each child's own individuality and uniqueness. They hope to do this by establishing the following goals and objectives.

GOAL 1: To assist in the development of moral and spiritual values, ethical standards of conduct, and basic integrity.

OBJECTIVES:

A. Encourage parents and teachers to set good examples.

B. Provide religious instruction with opportunities to use moral and spiritual values and ethical conduct in a Christian atmosphere.

C. Encourage upper class leadership and provide opportunities for them to set a good example.

GOAL 2: To help develop in all children a respect for the rights and properties of others as individuals and as groups.

OBJECTIVES:

A. Teach consideration of others, e.g., taking turns, fair play, friendship, Christian love for one another.

B. Expect and teach courteous speech, polite manners, and a quiet speaking voice.

C. Provide instruction in the care of books, gym and playground equipment, desks, and building facilities.

GOAL 3: To develop in students a love and understanding of the Church of Christ and His teachings, and to help them develop a spiritual life of prayer and worship.

A. Foster attendance at Mass on Sundays, holy days, and First Fridays.

B. Provide celebrations for various liturgical seasons.

C. Lead daily opening and closing prayers.

D. Encourage sharing through missions.

E. Provide opportunity for active participation in class liturgies.

GOAL 4: To provide all the students with knowledge of traditionally accepted fundamentals in all curriculum areas.

GOAL 5: To provide educational programs which take into account individual differences, needs, and rates of learning.

OBJECTIVES:

A. Use ability grouping in reading.

B. Enact diagnostic testing and continuous re-evaluation.

C. Provide regrouping to meet individual needs.

D. Sponsor field trips.

GOAL 6: To educate students in good health and cleanliness habits, and promote physical fitness.

OBJECTIVES:

A. Use science curriculum units to teach health, hygiene, and safety.

B. Provide a physical education program.

C. Provide extra-curricular team sports for boys and girls.

`GOAL 7: To prepare students to live productively and harmoniously in the community, state, and nation.

GOAL 8: To provide students with educational opportunities and experiences which emphasize the American heritage and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.

OBJECTIVES:

A. Teach social studies relative to the history of the United States, the democratic processes of government, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

B. Model democratic methods used in classroom management.

GOAL 9: To develop in students a deep appreciation and understanding of their lives through programs on Family Life, Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention, and Contagious Diseases, in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

We believe we can provide our students with an excellent education, Catholic in the best sense of the word. Success demands the finest efforts of the faculty, parents, and students working together and assisted by God's help.

The purpose of this handbook is to present the policies and activities of St. Mary's School. The policy statements are necessarily general, and the administration reserves the right to make specific applications as circumstances arise. Parents are asked to review this handbook with their children and to keep it for reference during the school year.

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In case of an absence, parents are to notify the school office by 8:30 a.m.  For the safety of our students, if parents have not notified the school when a child is absent, the office staff will make an attempt to contact the parents at home and/or at work.  If no phone contact has been made, the child must bring a note from the parent explaining the absence.  If no word is received from the parent concerning the reason for the child’s absence, the absence will be considered unexcused.

            When children are absent during the day due to illness, they are not allowed to attend extra-curricular school functions in the evening.  Violations of this rule will result in the absence being considered unexcused, with all grades for the day counting as zeroes.  Exceptions for special events, such as the Christmas program and sacrament activities, may be granted by the principal.

            Parents are encouraged not to remove their children from school for reasons other than illness.  In cases where parents do remove their children from school for reasons other than illness, it shall be the responsibility of parents to:

            1.  Contact the children's teacher(s) and the school principal several days in advance to advise them of what days will be missed.

            2.  Meet with the child(ren)'s teacher(s) to discuss makeup work for all the days that will be missed and when the work will be due.  Teachers are not obligated to have work ready prior to the student's absence.

            Failure to complete and return the make-up assignments by the due date can result in a failing grade (zero).  (11/2/93)

            In addition, pupils absent from school must present a written excuse to their teachers from their parents or guardians stating the reason for the absence.

            A pupil who has been absent for one-half of the quarter ordinarily shall not receive grades.  Instead, the words "PROLONGED ABSENCE" will be inserted in the grade column for that period on the report card.  Any pupil who is absent for twenty-five days or more during the entire school year could automatically be considered for retention.  Each case will be decided individually.

            Students who are absent over a period of time should request and do homework assignments.  They should contact the teachers to find out which assignments were missed.  It is the responsibility of the students to contact the teachers and do the missing assignments within a given amount of time.  Generally, students have the same number of days to make up the work as the number of days absent.

            When it is absolutely necessary for a child to be excused from school for medical or dental appointments, a note must be sent to the teacher 24 hours in advance except in the case of an emergency.  This note is then sent to the principal.  For the safety of the children, parents are asked to come to the school office to sign out their child.  No student will be permitted to leave the building without the parent or some authorized adult.  In the latter case, parents must send a signed note to the office with the name of the person who will be picking up the child.

            In the case of a doctor or dental appointment, if the school has received prior notice and if the child has been present for at least half of the morning or afternoon session in which the appointment occurs, the child will not be counted absent.

            A child who has been carrying a temperature should be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school.  Students who are carrying an elevated temperature will be sent home.  Parents should make sure that students who have been vomiting have been able to eat with no problems before returning to school.  If an antibiotic is needed, the child should be on the medication for 24 hours before returning. 

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All use of the Internet shall be consistent with St. Mary’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. This authorization does not attempt to state all required or prescribed behavior by users.

St. Mary’s School supports the use of computers and the Internet in its instructional program in order to facilitate access to information, research, collaboration, and interpersonal communications.

The use of computer hardware and software shall be consistent with the Catholic identity of our school, reinforce the curriculum, and reflect the varied instructional needs and learning styles of our students. Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner in accordance with the moral principles of the Catholic Church, accepted rules of network etiquette, and federal and state law.

The electronic information available to students and staff does not imply endorsement of the content by St. Mary’s School, nor do we guarantee the accuracy of information received on the Internet. St. Mary’s School shall not be responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable when using its computers or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet.

To the greatest extent possible, users of the Internet will be protected from harassment or unwanted or unsolicited communication. Any user who receives threatening or unwelcome communications shall immediately bring them to the attention of a teacher or administrator. Users shall not reveal personal addresses or telephone numbers to other users on the network or the Internet.

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l.  Using any computer without permission of a teacher.

m.  Accessing the Internet without permission of a teacher.

n.  Using E-mail without permission of a teacher.

Network Etiquette: You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include but are not limited to the following:

Indemnification: The user agrees to indemnify St. Mary’s School for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by St. Mary’s School, or arising out of, any violation of these procedures.

Vandalism: Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or the computer lab. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

Telephone Charges: St. Mary’s School assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges or fees, including telephone charges, long-distance charges, per-minute surcharges, and/or equipment or line charges.

The user shall be responsible for damages to equipment, systems, and software resulting from deliberate or willful acts. Illegal use of the network, intentional deletion or damage to files belonging to others, copyright violations, or theft of services will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary actions, and/or a report to the appropriate legal authorities for possible prosecution. Signatures at the end of this document are legally binding and indicate the parties who signed have read the terms and conditions carefully and understand their significance.  (Note:  Parents, students, teachers, and staff will be required to sign-off on this policy.  The computer teacher will review the policy with each class at the beginning of each school year.)  (Commission  10/16/01; revised 01/17/06)

            All doors will be locked during the school day.  Access to the main building will be through the security system installed on the Main Street door near the office and on the old gym doors.  All parents and visitors must check in at the school office upon entering the building.  The inside art room door will also be locked throughout the day.  Teachers, coaches, staff, and organization head officers will receive key fobs for the security system as needed.  These are not to be transferred for use by any other person. Coaches are to turn in their keys at the end of their season.(1/05)

ACCESS TO SCHOOL RECORDS

            Parents or legal guardians of a St. Mary’s School student may request access to the education records of their children within a reasonable period of time not to exceed 45 days after the request has been made.  Parents have the right to a hearing by the school to challenge the content of their child’s education records in order to insure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the child, and to provide an opportunity for the correction or deletion of such records.

            St. Mary’s School will maintain a record in each student’s file of all individuals (other than school officials, teachers, and local educational agency employees), agencies, or organizations which have requested or obtained access to the student’s education records.  The record will also indicate specifically the legitimate interest that each person, agency, or organization has in obtaining this information.  This record of access will be available only to parents, to the principal and staff assigned to prepare and maintain the records, and to educational or government agencies authorized to audit the record-keeping system.

            “Education record” means records, files, documents, and other materials which contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by the school or by a person acting on behalf of the school.  It does not include the records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel which are in the sole possession of the maker and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a substitute. (1/05)

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It is of absolute importance that an emergency card for each child be on file from the first day of school and that information on the card be updated immediately if there is a change in information.

If a child becomes ill or is the victim of an accident during the school day, the office will contact the parent or a person indicated on the student's emergency card. No child will ever be sent home or to an empty house without the parent's knowledge and permission.

I. ELIGIBILITY

In fairness to parishioners of St. Mary's Parish and with the desire to provide a Catholic education to as many Catholic students as possible, the following priority will be used for possible enrollment to St. Mary's School if registration exceeds capacity:

A. Baptized children whose siblings are already attending St. Mary's School and whose parents are practicing Catholic parishioners of St. Mary's Church.

Note: For the purposes of this document and St. Mary's Parish, the definition of practicing Catholic parishioners will be "a family with members baptized in the Catholic Faith who fulfill their Mass attendance obligations, are properly registered with the parish, support the parish according to their means, and are involved in parish activities as much as possible."

B. Baptized children of practicing Catholic parishioners of St. Mary's Parish and its missions enrolling their child in kindergarten.

C. Baptized children of practicing Catholic families from parishes which have no school of their own.

D. Baptized children of non-practicing Catholic families or children of non-Catholic families desiring a Catholic education consistent with the practices and guidelines set forth by the Peoria Diocese. Siblings of non-Catholics enrolled at St. Mary's will only be accepted into kindergarten if their acceptance would not exclude the child of a Catholic family desiring enrollment.

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II. CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION AND CONTINUED ENROLLMENT

A. Catholic schools are established primarily for the formation of students in preparation for living as Catholic adults within a community inspired by faith; they are not havens for those who wish to escape problems relating to the achievement of social justice in the public sector.

B. Age requirements for admission follow the guidelines of the Illinois School Code: Kindergarten - 5 years of age by September 1; Grade One - 6 years of age by September 1. The administrator will determine the academic and social requirements for admission and the appropriate class placement and may deny admission if the student's academic, physical, or social needs cannot be met adequately at St. Mary's School. Kindergarten students are required to be prescreened by their local Special Services unit, and the results of those screenings may affect admission. St. Mary's School may do additional screening to determine admission or placement.

C. Illinois law requires that all students entering kindergarten and sixth grade must have a physical examination.  This examination must be completed within one year prior to entry.  Those students entering at any grade level from any other school district must also have a current health record on file.  Physical forms from other schools in Illinois are usually acceptable; physical forms from out of state must be reviewed by the school nurse.  Only physicians licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches shall be responsible for the performance of the health (physical) examination and shall sign all report forms.  A dental exam is required for all children in kindergarten, second, and sixth grades.  The exam must be performed and signed by a licensed dentist, and proof of the exam must be presented to the school by May 15^th of the school year.  Waivers for the dental exam are available under certain circumstances.  Consult the principal for further information.  Beginning in 2008-2009, a vision exam performed by an optometrist or a physician who provides complete eye examinations will also be required for kindergarten.

D. Every child, prior to entering St. Mary's, shall present to the school proof of immunity against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, mumps, Hepatitis B, and chicken pox and screening for lead.

If a child does not submit proof of having had either the health examination or the immunizations as required, then the child shall be examined or receive the immunizations, as the case may be, and present proof by October 15 of a schedule for the administration of the immunizations and a statement of the medical reasons causing the delay, both the schedule and the statement being issued by the physician, registered nurse, or local health department that will be responsible for administration of the remaining required immunizations. If a child does not comply by October 15 of the current school year with the requirements of this subsection, then St. Mary's School shall exclude that child from school until such time as the child presents proof of having had the health examinations required and presents proof of having received those required immunizations which are medically possible to receive immediately. This will be considered an unexcused absence for the student.

E. All school families are expected to pay book fees and tuition.  Those families needing financial assistance with tuition may complete an application for tuition scholarships; applications are available in the school office.  Payment plans are available for tuition.

F. To ensure continued enrollment at St. Mary's, weekly attendance at Mass and regular reception of sacraments is expected for all Catholic students.

G. Non-Catholic and Catholic students are expected to participate in the curriculum in its entirety. Since religion is a major subject at St. Mary's and the participation in certain religious activities is part of our program, all students are expected to take part.

H. Once a child has been accepted into kindergarten at St. Mary's School, that child may remain, except in the cases of expulsion or the inability of the school to meet the needs of the child, through Grade Eight.

I. Students with learning disabilities will be accepted if it is felt that St. Mary’s School and the student intervention services available to its students through the St. Mary’s S.A.I.N.T.S. team, Pontiac District #429, and Livingston County Special Services Unit can provide an optimum education for the child. That decision will be made by the St. Mary’s School principal and pastor in consultation with the regular and special education staff members. Some services are only available to students who live in the District #429 boundaries.

J. As a condition of continued enrollment, parents are expected to actively support the educational and extracurricular activities of their children, participate in the volunteer projects of the St. Mary’s Teacher-Parent Organization and the Booster Club, and to promote the mission and philosophy of St. Mary’s School.

III. ENROLLMENT PROCEDURE

A. There will be an annual enrollment process which will begin in January.

1. Pre-registration for kindergarten will be held during January and February of each school year. Enrollment will be based on the priorities listed in Section I of this Admission Policy. Within each category, priority will be based on the date when a completed registration form and fee were received.

2. Those parish and school families not registering by February 28 will lose their right to the priority listed in Section I of this policy.

3. Parents may request morning or afternoon kindergarten sessions, but the school cannot promise to honor these requests. The primary concern of the school must be to balance the classes for the best educational setting.

4. Letters of kindergarten acceptance and session designation will be sent by the end of March. Those placed on a waiting list will also be notified at that time.

5. Students in Grades One through Eight may be accepted for enrollment as openings occur.

6. Registration Day will be set in August to formalize registration for those students who have been accepted for enrollment.

7. Those put on a waiting list will be prioritized according to Sections I and II of this policy.

B. Transfers

1. Students of Catholic families transferring in during the school year or summer months from out of town, and registering in the parish, will be eligible for immediate enrollment if present enrollment figures will accommodate them. Families are encouraged to make transfers at a logical academic break.

2. Names of Catholic students who are not able to enroll immediately will be placed in a dated log and will be considered based upon the date of pre-registration. This log will not be automatically carried over to the next school year.

3. Students transferring to St. Mary's School will be required to provide evidence of previous school experience, and St. Mary's School reserves the right to accept the student, refuse admission, or allow admission on a probationary status whose length and terms will be determined by the administrator. (Admission Policy Revised 10/21/97)

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ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL DRUGS

Any student who possesses, uses, distributes, or is under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs in or on school property or at a school-related function or who brings look-alike drugs or alcoholic substances onto school property or to school-related functions will be subject to the following actions:

The principal will have recourse to other actions based upon the specific circumstances of each case.

While the administration and Commission on Education of St. Mary’s School wholeheartedly believe in the policies and procedures contained in this handbook, they reserve the right to alter, modify, or terminate any policy or procedure at any time as the needs of the school or parish may require. Parents and students will be promptly and properly notified of any amendments. (Commission, 10/16/01)

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Statement of Policy

A review or appeal of any decision concerning policies, procedures, or other serious matters made by the competent authority of any of the schools of the Catholic Diocese of Peoria may be requested by any member of the Diocese under the following conditions only:

1) The decision violates or is in conflict with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church;

2) The decision violates or is in conflict with an applicable Diocesan policy;

3) The decision violates or is in conflict with a policy or procedure of the parish, the school, or other entity that takes precedence over the decision in question; or,

4) The decision violates or is in conflict with an applicable federal, state or local civil law.

It is to be noted that dissatisfaction with a decision is not a sufficient condition for appeal.

Statement of Process

The individual or group desiring the appeal or the review must make that request known to the governing Pastor or Board of Pastors responsible for that school in the form of a letter. As a matter of record, a copy of that letter is to be forwarded to the Office of the Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Peoria and to the local Vicar.

This letter must clearly cover each of the following points:

1) The decision that is being questioned and which competent authority made it;

2) The grounds for the appeal or the review with specific reference to one or more of the four conditions listed above; and,

3) The proposed resolution.

The governing Pastor or Board of Pastors, having received the request for appeal or review, is to respond in writing to those making the request within thirty (30) days of receiving the request. A copy of the response letter is to be forwarded to the Office of the Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese, and the local Vicar.

In most cases, the decision of the governing Pastor or Board of Pastors is final. However, those who have requested the appeal or review may further appeal to the local Vicar who has the authority to summarily dismiss the case or who may forward the appeal for review to the Office of Catholic Schools and the Vicar General of the Diocese of Peoria.

Promulgation

This policy replaces the Conflict Resolution Policy of the Diocese of Peoria and shall be included in all policy statements of all schools of the Catholic Diocese of Peoria.

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Students are not to be on parish property until 7:50 a.m. (7:20 for the hot weather schedule).  Doors will be unlocked at that time.  Parents are asked to strictly adhere to this policy for the sake of the safety of the children and the liability of the school.  Grades 1-8 should report to the gym when they arrive at school. 

            The following school hours are observed

Morning Session                        8:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.                    

Lunch/Recess                         11:30 A.M. to 12:20 P.M.

Afternoon Session                   12:20 P.M. to    3:00 P.M.                    

            Any child who is not in his/her classroom at 8:15 A.M.or at 12:25 P.M. will be considered tardy and must report to the office upon arrival.  If a child is tardy, a parent must come into the office to sign in their child.  For every five tardy times for any reason (including doctor or dentist appointments) within one school quarter, the child will be issued one ½ day absence.  Continued instances of tardiness will result in parents having to meet with the pastor and principal.  Parents are urged to have children at school by 8:05 a.m. so that they may participate in community prayer.  Once a child has entered the school for the day, the child may not leave the school grounds without permission of the principal. (Commission, 1/05)

Due to unusually hot temperatures in late August and early September, in 2008-2009 the following schedule will be followed from the beginning of the school year until Labor Day:

7:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.  Tardy time for this schedule will be 7:40 a.m.  There will be no lunch break, but students may bring a snack to have during a mid-morning break.  There will be no buses during this schedule.  If the hot weather continues after Labor Day, this schedule may be extended for a short time.  It is hoped to air-condition the older section of the school in the near future. (Commission, 1/15/08)

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Asbestos in non-friable form exists in St. Mary’s School. It is inspected every six months by IDEAL Environmental Engineering, Inc. Parents have the right to examine the Asbestos Management Plan on file in the school office.

St. Mary's extra-curricular activities are one part of a total program designed to develop healthy, intelligent, Christian students. Coaches, participants, and parents are asked to keep this goal in mind and to make it the focus of all activities.

Good sportsmanship should be the hallmark of the St. Mary's extra-curricular program, and all students, personnel, and fans are expected to adhere to high standards of Christian behavior. Participants and officials should be given encouragement; they should never be harassed.

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The following rules and regulations will govern the program:

Charges for admission to all events will be as follows (unless otherwise required by IESA):

Adults & High School Students $3.00

Students/Senior Citizens $2.00

K-8 Students' $1.00

Preschool Age Free

Buses and drivers provided by Illinois Central School Bus, Pontiac Township High School, or Turner Bus Service will be used whenever possible for out-of-town extra-curricular events, except for away events with Pontiac Christian School and Pontiac Junior High School. For these two exceptions, parent drivers will be used, with team parents making the arrangements for drivers. Alternative arrangements are also at the discretion of the athletic director(s) and principal when special circumstances, such as a small group to be transported, are present. All drivers transporting children must have a current insurance card and a copy of their driver’s license on file in the school office.

As long as funds are available, Booster Club will pay all bus fees for those parents who fulfill their obligations to work their scheduled assignments at competitive events.  For parents who do not fulfill their scheduled assignments or who cannot work because they have not taken the required Protecting God’s Children workshop and had the DCFS and criminal background checks, a fee of $40 per child per athletic activity and/or a fee of $20 per child per non-athletic activity (band, chorus, math team, Scholastic Bowl, speech team) will be charged.

In the event that Booster Club cannot fund the bus fees, the fee policy will be as follows. Sports bus fees will be based on the number of games and on the number of students participating in each sport. Fees will be collected at the conclusion of the season when the bus bill is received. No child will be denied participation in the sports program because of inability to pay. Parents may contact the principal if assistance is needed.

All players, cheerleaders, and coaches are required to ride the bus to all sporting events in which St. Mary's participates. An exception will be made if a player resides in or near the town where an away game is being played. In such cases, the parents may notify the coach at least one day prior to the game that the player will be transported to the game by the parents. Students may ride the bus after the games to return to St. Mary's, or a parent only may sign the authorization form at the game (or in the school office during the school day) to provide their own transportation for their child. Sign-out may also be done several days in advance if necessary.

Parent drivers will be used for all other extra-curricular events, including, but not limited to, scholastic bowl team, speech team, math team, cheerleading contests, Student Council trips, and nursing home Masses. Proof of insurance from said alternate transportation provider(s) must be retained on file at St. Mary’s School.

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Girls in Grades 7 and 8, and Grade 6 as needed, may participate in cheerleading. The cheerleading sponsor and administrator will decide the number of girls on the squad each year. Tryouts will be held as needed.

Cheerleaders will be required to cheer for the seventh and eighth-grade boys' basketball teams only.

Children of coaches will be allowed to ride the team bus if the parent of the child is on the bus and if a parent permission form is on file with the school secretary before the child rides the bus. This policy is subject to approval by the bus company.  (Commission, 4/16/02)

To encourage their interest in the school athletic program, the following categories of personnel will be granted free admission to home games: St. Mary's Parish priests; the administrator, faculty, staff and spouses; athletic director(s) and spouses; concession stand chairpersons and spouses; coaches and spouses; administrators, coaches, and athletic directors from other schools; and St. Mary's Education Commission members and spouses.

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Those players attending athletic events in which they will participate will follow this dress code:

Boys – The eighth grade boys’ basketball team will wear dress shirts, ties, slacks (no blue jeans), shoes, crew or dress socks, and a belt. For all other boys’ teams, the dress code will include: Slacks (no blue jeans), collared shirt or sweater (no T-shirts), shoes (athletic shoes not being worn for the game are acceptable; open-toed shoes are unacceptable), crew or dress socks, and a belt if the pants style requires one.

Girls - Dress, or skirt/slacks (no blue jeans), a modest top of acceptable length and fit or a sweater (no T-shirts), hose or crew or dress socks, shoes (athletic shoes not being worn for the game are acceptable; open-toed shoes are unacceptable), and a belt if the pants style requires one.

It is the intention of this policy to insure that students representing S.M.S. be appropriately attired in clothing which meets St. Mary’s School standards. Sweatsuits and/or nylon jogging outfits are not appropriate for this dress code. Students who are inappropriately dressed will not be allowed to participate. (Commission 2/19/02)

1. FIRST OFFENSE - Suspension from the team for the remainder of the season.

2. SECOND OFFENSE - Ineligible for sports for the rest of the school year.

These rules are in effect from the beginning of the school year to the end of the school year. Reports must be eye-witness accounts by a St. Mary's employee (including faculty, staff, custodians, coaches, and athletic directors). Reports from law enforcement officers will also be accepted. The principal may also use other sanctions based on the circumstances of each case.

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All students participating in competitive and/or IESA-sponsored events must meet the eligibility rules of St. Mary’s School in order to compete and/or participate in contests. The following rules will govern eligibility at St. Mary's School:

1. Eligibility sheets will be turned in by each teacher by 8:00 a.m. on Friday or the last morning of the school week. Eligibility will be computed for the first time approximately two weeks before the first game or event of each season.

2. The office will send a letter home with the child on Friday informing the parents of an ineligibility. Only students who have a D or F average in one or more subjects will receive a letter. ONLY F GRADES MAKE A STUDENT INELIGIBLE; parents and coaches will be informed of D grades only so that the student can be encouraged to raise the grade before an ineligibility occurs.

3. The student must return the letter signed by a parent on the following Monday or the first day of the school week; for every day the letter is late, ineligibility will be extended by another day. If a D letter is not returned on the first day of the week, the student will receive one day of grace; however, the student will not be allowed to practice with the team if the letter is not returned on the second day.

4. A list of those who are ineligible will be left in the office for each coach on the last day of the school week.

5. Eligibility will run from Monday through Sunday.

6. If a student is ineligible, the player cannot play or practice but must be present for games or events. The player must sit with the team but will not dress in uniform. The player's presence at practices will be determined by the coach.

7. Eligibility is cumulative for the nine-week grading period. At the beginning of a nine-week period, only one or two grades in a subject area may determine whether a student is eligible so students should take extra care in completing work.

8. If a student is ineligible for three consecutive weeks, the player is off the team for the season.

9. In case of serious misconduct, the Principal may suspend a student from games and practices immediately. Parents and coaches will be notified. (Commission, 11/20/01)

All athletes, including cheerleaders, must turn in sports physicals, insurance statements, and emergency forms and must provide copies of their birth certificates. These items must be on file in the school office before the first practice.

Any St. Mary's School student who intends to participate in the sports program will be required to be insured either through a family policy or through the student insurance offered at registration in the fall.

A doctor’s medical excuse from PE is automatically an excuse from athletic practice and games unless the doctor specifies that the student may participate. The excuse is in effect until a release from the doctor is received by the school. (Commission, 10/16/01)

St. Mary's School students will be allowed to participate in the following available sports if all rules and regulations are met:  boys' basketball, Gr. 5-8; boys’ baseball, Gr. 6-8; girls’ softball, Gr. 7-8; girls' basketball, Gr. 6-8; girls' volleyball, Gr. 5-8; girls’ cheerleading, Gr. 7-8  and the sports which are co-oped with Pontiac Junior High School, boys' and girls' track and field and cross country, Grades 5-8.  The following activities are also available:  speech team – Gr. 5-8; math team – Gr. 6-8 (with some participation by Gr. 5 possible); and scholastic bowl team – Gr. 7-8. 

Players will be members of the team and will get some playing time throughout the year (the exact amount of time to be determined by the coaches).  Coaches are expected to practice with all team members.

            For St. Mary's School sports teams, if at all possible, players will play at their own grade level.  If there is a shortage of students as determined by the coach and athletic directors, the principal and athletic director(s), in consultation with the coach, will make any decisions to move students up to the next level.  This decision will be made at the beginning of the season.  As a general rule, extra players will not be added to a team’s roster for the state tournament series.  If an emergency situation arises, such as an injury, a flu epidemic, ineligibility, etc., and  a player is brought up for the state tournament series, he/she will not play unless there are not enough upper grade players to field a team.

            As a general rule, students who are moved up to a higher level stay with that team for the whole season and for tournaments.  Athletes do not come back to the lower level team for its tournaments.  However, exceptions may be made by the principal and athletic director(s) if special circumstances warrant.  Students and their parents have the choice of not moving up.  In case of temporary lack of numbers due to illness, injuries, or ineligibility, a coach may bring a player up for one game but must notify the principal and/or an athletic director.

            Since the extra-curricular program is run entirely by volunteers, all parents whose children are involved in the program are REQUIRED to work in the concession stand and/or assist with supervision, scorekeeping, timing, and so on.  The concession stand profits pay for the majority of extra-curricular expenses.

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1. 

ATTENDANCE - Any player at school during the day and not in attendance at a scheduled practice or game must inform the coach prior to the practice or game and present an excuse signed by the parent upon return.  Any player must be in attendance at school by 9:30 a.m. to play in a game on that day.  An exception is an excused absence pre-arranged with the principal.

            2.  EXCUSED/UNEXCUSED ABSENCES - Whether an absence from a game or from practice is excused or unexcused will be determined by the coach.

                        a.  First unexcused absence - suspended from the next game.

b.       Second unexcused absence - suspended from the next two games. 

      (Note:  Suspended students may still practice with the team.)

                        c.  Third unexcused absence - dismissed from the team.

3.    SUNDAY GAMES AND PRACTICES - No Sunday games or practices will be scheduled.  No games will be scheduled on other holy days, but practices may be held.

4.    Students participating in practices or events may not be in the building without an adult supervisor present.

All the rules and regulations contained in the by-laws of the Illinois Elementary School Association Handbook will be followed by all students who participate in the athletic program. In addition to these rules and regulations, the policies of St. Mary's School and the rules of individual coaches, as approved by the administrator, shall be followed.

In order to minimize health and safety risks to student athletes, maintain ethical standards, and reduce liability risks, school personnel and coaches should never supply, recommend, or permit the use of any drug, medication, or food supplement solely for performance enhancing purposes. (Diocesan Policy C-310, 3/2004)

The school, through the athletic department, will provide uniforms for school athletic teams and cheerleaders. The uniform will consist of a basic top and bottom. All other items must be purchased by the participant. (Athletic Policy Revised 4/20/98)

In order to comply with provisions of the compulsory school attendance law of the State of Illinois, a pupil who has reached the age of seven years and is under the age of sixteen must attend school every day that school is in session unless excused by proper school authority.

Students entering kindergarten must be five years old on or before September 1 of that school year. Students entering Grade One must be six years old on or before September 1 of that school year.

The immediate direction of the school and its instructional program is delegated to the principal.

Whenever a problem arises concerning a child, the FIRST person to be contacted is the classroom teacher. If the difficulty persists or cannot be handled at this level, it should be presented to the principal. Problems related to a child, teacher, or school worker are NOT to be taken to the Commission on Education, which is a policy-related advisory body in the Catholic School System.

St. Mary's School follows the conflict resolution policies of the Diocese of Peoria. In the event that a problem cannot be solved through the principal, please contact the school office for a copy of the conflict resolution policy to be followed.

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A band program is offered to students in Grades Four through Eight. Classes and private lessons are taught by the school band instructor. Some instruments are available through the school, but most are rented or bought by the parents. The band performs occasionally throughout the year and at the Fine Arts Festival held at the school in the spring.

Students are allowed to bring birthday treats for their classmates. If parents have any questions about the best time or the best type of treats, they should contact their child’s teacher. Students with summer birthdays are welcome to choose a date during the school year on which to celebrate their birthday with their classmates.

CELL PHONES

Students with cell phones or other electronic devices must have them in the “off” mode and in bookbags during school hours from 7:50 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.  If a student is caught using a cell phone or other electronic device during the school day, the item will be confiscated, and parents will be contacted regarding the problem.  Appropriate consequences will be issued to the student by the principal.  The phone or electronic device will be held until picked up by a parent.

CHAPERONES:  ROLES AND PROCEDURES (Dioc. Pol. C-122)

Chaperones play an important role at minors’ activities sponsored by the diocese, a parish, or a school. They are responsible for the safety and well-being of our youth, in addition to their role as monitors of appropriate behavior. Unfortunately, our chaperones are at risk of not being given adequate instruction, guidance, and support. The purpose of this policy and its accompanying administrative regulation is to address this need and to recognize the important contribution that chaperones make to the Catholic Diocese of Peoria, it parishes, and its schools.

All activities for minors, or where significant numbers of minors will be present without parents, require chaperones. The sponsor of the activity has the responsibility for recognizing this need and for arranging the presence of a reasonable number of adults to act as chaperones throughout the duration of the event. An event shall not take place in the absence of adequate numbers of chaperones. Parents or teachers are preferred chaperones.

Catholic Diocese of Peoria Policy

Adopted: 9/01

Revised: 1/03

Chaperones shall be given, at a minimum, the following information before they commit to chaperone an event:

1. A description of the event

2. The expected number of minors to be present

3. The hours the chaperone will commit to be present and act as chaperone

4. The responsibilities and expectations of a chaperone at the event

5. The expected number of other chaperones.

If an individual commits to act as a chaperone at an event, he or she should be given a number to contact prior to the event if he or she should have any additional questions or if circumstances arise that make attendance impossible. If there is a cancellation by a chaperone, a replacement shall be found within a reasonable time by the event’s sponsor.

Prior to the commencement of the event, the sponsor shall identify to the chaperones an adult to whom the chaperone will be responsible. This person shall give the chaperones guidance as to the facilities, shall assign the chaperones to appropriate posts and duties, and shall visit with the chaperones occasionally during the event to provide temporary breaks, answer questions, and provide any assistance required. This person shall also advise the chaperones as to the following:

1. Where and to whom to report any problems or concerns

2. Any anticipated problems relating to their post or the event.

Chaperones shall be advised that they are expected to promptly report any unusual incident or behavior and, using their best judgment, to exercise authority to stop or prevent any inappropriate behavior or immoral activity involving a minor or in the vicinity of a minor. If any unusual incident, behavior or activity occurs where there is the potential for further inquiry (i.e. an injury), chaperone(s) having information respecting the incident shall be asked to complete a report documenting the matter. This report shall be completed by the chaperone(s) as soon as practical.

Where an event is of sufficient length to require different “shifts” of chaperones, the sponsor shall provide for the foregoing steps for each new “shift” of chaperones. If the “shift” of a chaperone is an overnight shift, the responsibility of the chaperone is to remain awake at all times during his or her “shift.”

The sponsor shall keep a record of the names of the chaperones for each event for a period of four (4) years.

Chaperones should be given an appropriate expression of appreciation for their efforts at the end of their service.

The term “minors’ activities” as it is used in the policy and administrative regulation relates to any activities (other than clubs, Scout troops, and the like) which primarily involve participation of pre-college age children.  (Catholic Diocese of Peoria;

Administrative Regulation Issued: 1/03)

St. Mary's School will limit the number of students in each class to a maximum of thirty (30) students for Grades Two through Eight. Enrollment in kindergarten and Grade One will be limited to twenty-eight (28) each in order to accommodate retentions when necessary. Class size with retentions is not to exceed 30. If additional space becomes available, this policy will be reviewed. (1/16/96)  The Pastor reserves the right to make changes to this policy if warranted. (2/28/08)

As defined in Diocesan Policy G-210, the role of the St. Mary's School Commission on Education for the Pontiac Area is a consultative one to the pastor and the principal. In this capacity, the Commission has three basic roles: (1) to provide counsel and advice in the operation of the school, (2) to develop, define, and recommend policies which govern the operation of the school, in full accordance with the policies established by the Diocesan Commission on Education, and (3) to promote the implementation of the policies which have been developed and defined.

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The faculty and staff of St. Mary’s School are mandated to maintain the confidentiality of personal, academic, health, and financial records. Parents, the custodial parent, or the legal guardian will be involved in any decisions to share information with District #429 or the Livingston County Special Services Unit in the event that their child requires special services.

Teachers and administrators will keep confidential information entrusted to them as long as no one’s life, health, and/or safety is at stake or as mandated by law or Diocesan policies in regard to the "Protecting God’s Children" program.

It is the policy of the Diocesan Office of Catholic Education and this school that NO CORPORAL PUNISHMENT be administered by the principal or teachers.

St. Mary’s School has in place a crisis plan called "Code Red," which was developed in conjunction with local police agencies and Pontiac C. C. School District #429. The plan outlines emergency situations and contingencies and is reviewed and updated annually.

Although St. Mary’s School does not employ a guidance counselor, the services of a school psychologist and a school social worker are available through the Livingston County Special Services Unit. Parish priests are available for family or individual counseling in matters of faith, and the school principal and classroom teachers may also provide information about outside guidance resources.

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In cases where custody of a child resides with only one parent or is shared by separated or divorced parents, a copy of the custody agreement or court order should be placed in the child’s school records so that school officials are aware of the arrangement. In cases where a child is not to be allowed to be picked up from school by one of the parents, a written statement signed and dated by the custodial parent must be presented to the school principal.

Dances at St. Mary's School for fifth through eighth grade students of St. Mary's School and other schools invited to attend will be limited to two dances during the school year. The following are points to be observed:

1. Sufficient chaperones, including parents and teachers, must be obtained.

2. Appropriate dress, depending on the occasion, must be worn.

3. Dances will last no longer than three hours and end by 10:00 p.m.

4. Once a student leaves the gym, he/she may not return to the dance.

5. An admission fee will be optional, depending on the purpose of the dance.

6. A note will be sent to parents to inform them of the time the dance will begin

and end. (4/6/93)

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A detention for misconduct may be issued by the principal or any faculty member. Parents will be notified in writing or by phone prior to the day the detention is to be served. Teachers may seek permission by phone to have the detention served on the day of the offense. The detention will be supervised by the person issuing it or by another staff member. Detentions will start at 3:00 p.m. or at the end of the school day and will last no longer than 60 minutes per day.

1. The teacher will determine what the student does in regard to homework, written work, and so on, during the detention period.

2. Students will sit in an upright position with both feet on the floor. Absolutely no talking or communication with other students will be allowed.

3. Students who disregard detention rules will receive an additional detention.

4. Students who skip a detention without a good reason (as determined by the principal) will serve two (2) additional detentions.

5. Students who are absent from school on the assigned detention day will automatically be placed in detention the next detention day following their return to school, with no additional notice being given to parents.

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The goal of St. Mary's School is to assist students in using self-discipline and Christian behavior in every aspect of their lives. All members of the student body and all employees of the school are expected to treat every person with dignity and respect. Any student who engages in conduct that is detrimental to the reputation of the school and/or inconsistent with the mission, philosophy, or teachings of the Catholic Church may be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion."

Teachers and administrators are responsible for maintaining a safe, peaceful environment in which learning, communication, and faith development may take place. They have the authority to act in place of the parents in maintaining discipline during the school day and at school-related events.

Any acts of disobedience or misconduct may be disciplined by withholding privileges, such as recess, or by issuing detentions, suspensions, or expulsions depending on the age of the student, and the circumstances, frequency, and severity of the offense. However, the major emphasis will be on learning from the mistake. A student may be asked to write a behavior plan to correct the problem.

The following are considered serious misbehaviors and will usually result in the student being given detentions or sent to the principal for more serious punishment:

1. Disruptive behavior in the classroom, on or near school property, or at school-related functions.

2. Cheating on any academic work.

3. Possession of, use of, or distribution of alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, marijuana, or any other substance or weapon which is otherwise unlawful for a student to possess, use, or distribute. (See also "Alcohol and Illegal Drugs" and "Weapon Possession Policy")

4. Fighting or assaulting any person.

5. Theft or intentional damage to or destruction of school property, or personal property of others.

6. Other acts which directly or indirectly jeopardize the physical or psychological health, safety, and welfare of self and others at school.

7. Insubordination to school personnel.

8.