G.    PARENTS

1.          Parents are the primary educators of their children.  Since the school is an extension of the home and has been delegated the care, discipline and education of their children, the school expects full parental support.

2.          Telephone calls to school:

Telephone calls should be infrequent.  Parents are asked not to phone during school hours unless it is an emergency.  Students are allowed to use the phone only in the case of emergency.

        3.       Telephone calls to teachers home:

                   Please, No class to any teacher's home.  All parents are to communicate with teachers during the school day.  The hours teachers are available to
                   conference are 7:30AM - 7:45AM and 2:30PM - 2:45 PM or duing some other agreed upon time.  In any case please make an appointment.

        4.      Non-scheduled meetings with staff:

Staff is always accessible to any parent who desires to speak with teachers or the headmaster.  An appointment should be made if the parent expects the meeting to be more than just a brief discussion.

        5.       Parent-Teacher conferences:

Parents are given the opportunity to meet with the teachers by appointment throughout the school year.  The Parent-Teacher Conference scheduled in November is mandatory and must be attended by both parents and students.

        5.       Tuition and Fees:

No bills are sent to the home.  Tuition is expected to be paid by the 1^st of each month unless other arrangements have been made.  If tuition is not received by the 3^rd a late fee will be assessed.

        6.       Fundraising:

                  All fundraising activities must have prior approval of the headmaster.

        7.       If a non-parent is to pick up a student, the school must be provided with a written signed note from the parent before the child will be released.

H.    ABSENCES AND ILLNESSES

        1.       Absences:

                  a.       If a child is absent, the school must be notified before 9:00AM.  The school accepts no liability for an absence that has not been reported to the school.

                  b.       When returning to school after an absence, a written excuse stating the reason for the child's absence must be presented to the teacher.  (State of California Education Code).  If a child is absent, the school must be notified before 9:00AM.  The school accepts no liability for an absence that has not been reported to the school.

                  c.       Continued unexcused absences will be cause for removal from the Academy.

        2.       Tardiness:

a.           A student arriving after 7:50AM is considered tardy.

        3.       Illnesses

                  a.       Parents are notified immediately of serious injury or sudden illnesses that occur during school hours. 

                  b.       Please notify the school office when there is a change of phone number or persons to be contacted when you cannot be reached. 

                  c.       Emergency Forms must be turned in on the first day of school.  It is understood that the school has the obligation to select emergency providers in the absence of the school's ability to reach the parents and that no liability would apply to such a decision in the event that the parents cannot be reached.                              

                  d.       If a student has a communicable disease (cold, flu, chicken pox, etc...), the student should remain at home until the period of contagion is passed.

                  e.       If a child has a health problem (diabetes, allergies etc,), it is absolutely essential that this information be given to the school.  State law forbids school personnel to administer any type of medication (even aspirin) to the students.  Medication may not be kept with a student.  If your child needs to take medication during school hours, the proper paperwork must be on file, and medication must be left in the school office.   If a student is to take medicine at school, parents should deliver the medicine and note to the school.

I.      STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE AND PROBATIONARY PERIOD

        1.       Standard of Excellence

                 A standard of behavioral and academic excellence is required of all students.  That means that all   students are directing their actions to the honor and glory of God and; therefore, putting forth their very best effort in all they do.

        2.       Probationary Period

A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required of all students in grades 3-12.  If a student falls below this requirement at the end of any quarter, his/her performance will be evaluated.  If it is determined that if the student's performance is a result of poor attitude, behavior, and effort; the student will be placed on academic/behavioral probation.  The student will then have one quarter to bring his/her grade point average to an acceptable level or face expulsion from the school.

        3.       Promotion/Retention

All students are expected to achieve at least grade level proficiency in order for promotion to the next grade level, with teacher evaluation and test score review as the basis for the decision.  Any decision concerning non-promotion will be made only after considering facts related to the student's development and consultation with the teacher and headmaster.  Parents will be notified as soon as possible in the possibility of retention.

J.  DISCIPLINE POLICY

        1.    Discipline is considered an important aspect of Catholic Christian development and moral guidance.  Students have the right to learn in a     distraction free environment and no student has a right to distract the learning environment of any student.

        2.    Referrals are given to all students who do not follow school rules.  Referrals fall into one of two classes:  behavioral or non-behavioral.  A behavioral referral will result in detention the following day.  Siblings of students serving detention are not to be at school while the detention is being served.  Parents will be notified immediately and asked to come and pick up their child when a serious offense is committed.

K.    SUSPENSION

1.     Suspension is a disciplinary action to be used at the discretion of the headmaster.

           a.       Ordinarily, suspension should not exceed more than five consecutive school days.

                  b.      A student may be placed on suspension for serious misconduct on school grounds, off school grounds during school-related activities, or for non-school related activities if such conduct reflects adversely on the school.

                  c.      Immediate suspension is imposed if there is a threat of danger to the health and safety of others. The headmaster may remove the offending student from the classroom, yard, etc... and contact the parents as soon as possible.

        2.       Procedures For Suspension

                  a.       The student is given notice of the violation of rules or regulations that constitute a suspendable offense.

                  b.       Parents are notified by phone as soon as possible.

                  c.       A conference is arranged with the parents, student, headmaster, and teacher.

                  d.     The parents, headmaster, and teacher must sign a written form of suspension.  The reason for the suspension must be clearly noted and the length of time for the suspension must be specified on the form.

                  e.       The headmaster is required to maintain a dated written record of the facts, procedures, and conferences involved in each suspension case.

                  f.        Parents and students must be informed that continued or repeated misconduct may result in expulsion.

        3.       Reasons For Immediate Suspension Leading To Expulsion

At the discretion of the headmaster, the following offenses committed by the students are potential reasons for immediate suspension leading to expulsion.  This list shall not be considered exhaustive:

                  a.       Serious disobedience, insubordination or disrespect for authority:

                            *       Refusal to obey school rules;

                            *       Refusal to follow directions;

                            *       Refusal to answer when spoken to directly;

                            *       Giving sharp, rude answers;

                            *       Causing interruption in classroom procedures.

                  b.       Language or behavior that is seriously immoral, profane, vulgar, or obscene.

                  c.     Use, sale, distribution, or possession of cigarettes, drugs, alcohol or any other legally controlled substance. (May be cause for automatic expulsion)

                  d.       Injury or harm to persons or property or serious threat to same

                  e.       Sale of any material on school grounds without proper authorization

                  f.        Unauthorized absence or continued tardiness

                  g.       Assault with, or possession of, a lethal instrument or weapon (may be cause for automatic expulsion)

                  h.       Serious theft or dishonesty (may be cause for automatic expulsion)

                  i.        Cheating (will also result in a failure grade on the test)

                  j.        Outrageous, scandalous or seriously disruptive behavior

                  k.       Conduct at school or elsewhere that would reflect adversely on the Catholic school or Church (may be cause for automatic expulsion)

L.    APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR AND MANNERS

        1.      Praying at the beginning and ending of each class with a devout attitude, realizing God's presence and watchfulness over the proceedings of the classroom.

        2.       Maintaining a modest, neat, and well-groomed appearance in full accord with the uniform policy.

        3.       Address all adults by name. (Father, Mr., Mrs., Miss)  In the event you do not know the name of the adult, use "Yes, sir" and "No ma'am".

        4.      If an adult visitor comes into the classroom, stand and greet the visitor and remain standing until you are told to be seated by the visitor or your teacher.

        5.       Raise your hand if you have a question or statement to make.

        6.     Only one person may be talking at one time.  Talk in turns and patiently wait for the teacher or student to finish what they have to say before raising your hand to contribute to the conversation.

        7.       Use proper English, not slang, at all times in class and on school grounds.

        8.       Compliment other students on their appearance or work.

        9.       Give assistance to other students when needed and appropriate.

        10.     Work quietly when the teacher is talking to another adult or when helping another student.

        11.     Have all necessary supplies for class at the beginning of class.

        12.     Keep work areas neat and clean.

        13.     Keep an accurate daily record of homework assignments.

        14.     Keep notes in an orderly manner in a subject binder or notebook.

        15.    Submit all homework and classroom assignments in a prompt manner neatly written with the proper heading on acceptable paper (paper that has not been ripped out of a notebook resulting in jagged and torn edges).  All assignments are to be handwritten unless directed.

        16.     Apologize for inappropriate behavior.  Quietly and respectfully accept the consequences of your actions.

M.  INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

        1.       Displaying irreverence during daily prayers and at Mass.

        2.       Disrupting the class with unnecessary and excessive noise, conversations, or antics.

        3.       Using rude, obscene words, gestures, or actions towards fellow student or adults.

        4.       Using slang expressions or improper English in the classroom or at any time on school grounds.

        5.       Ridiculing a student at any time, especially a student who is being instructed, corrected, or disciplined.

        6.       Talking back or arguing with the teacher.

        7.       Interrupting a conversation between two people in class.

        8.       Taking or using, without permission, another students' or teacher's possessions.

        9.       Lying.

        10.     Cheating.

        11.     Leaving a mess of your work area.

        12.     Turning in homework late.

        13.     Turning in homework and classroom assignments carelessly done.

        14.     Complaining openly and disrespectfully in class.

        15.     Displaying a disrespectful attitude toward the teacher or fellow students.

        16.     Inattention, inactivity, and laziness during class.

N.    VOLUNTEER HOURS

        1.       Each family is required to complete thirty service hours throughout the school year.

                  a.      These could be time spent organizing fundraising, doing recess/lunch supervision, custodial work, organizing field trips or other areas as needed.

                  b.       A non-participation fee of $600.00 may be paid.

O.    GRADING POLICY

        St. Ephrem Academy has adopted the following grading scale:

        Grades K-2

        O = Outstanding          VG = Very Good                   G = Good

        S = Satisfactory        NI = Needs Improvement

        (Teacher has option to use letter grades – see below)

        Grades 3-12

        A = 100-97                 A- = 96-93                  B+ = 92-89                             B = 88-86                                B- = 85-83

        C+ = 82-80                 C = 79-75                    C- = 74-70                              D = 69-65                                F = 64 and Below

P.    HOMEWORK POLICY

        1.   Homework is for reinforcing concepts and skills, fostering creativity and discipline through projects and research, and teaching the students to work independently.

                  a.       Homework will be assigned regularly.  Students are required to keep a homework notebook and parents are required to check it and sign it nightly.

Q.    REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS

        1.       Report cards are issued quarterly to keep parents updated on students' progress.

        2.       Progress reports will be issued mid-quarter.

        Parents, too often, do not clearly know what the policy of the school is concerning the grades on progress reports and report cards.  Unfortunately, this leads to misunderstanding and frequent criticism of the teacher or pressure-bearing on the child.

        Parents should know and keep in mind that, at best, report card marks are a relative measure rather than an exact measure of pupil achievement.  Mental achievement is difficult to measure; we can only with some accuracy measure that which is formally taught; certainly more is learned.  Every child is capable of earning an “A” for effort, and it is the effort which is most significant.

        The following finding set down by statistical experts should help to a better understanding of our grading system.  Out of every 1000 children:

                            5 to 8 earn an            A             (93 - 100)

                            20 to 25 earn a           B             (83 – 92)

                            34 to 50 earn a           C             (70 – 82)

                            20 to 25 earn a           D             (65 – 69)

                            5 to 8 earn an            F              (below 65) 

        Classes will vary and this division of marking will not fit every group.  It is, however, a safe guide and norm for teachers.

        For most boys and girls, marks in the “C” range are to be considered Good marks.  Marks in the “B” range are to be considered Very Good.  Marks in the “A” range are recognized as those who earn superior achievement.

GRADE DEFINITIONS

        A Student Merits Grade “A” When He:

        1.       Always does more than is required.

        2.       Has a wide vocabulary at his command.

        3.       Is always alert; takes an active part in discussions.

        4.       Is dependable in taking assignments.

        5.       Is prompt, neat, precise and thorough in all work.

        6.       Knows how to select books, tools, and materials and begins work promptly.

        7.       Has initiative and originality in attacking problems.

        8.       Associates and re-thinks problems in new situations.

        9.       Has enthusiasm for and interest in his work.

        10.     Applies ideas gained in study to every day life.

        A Student Merits Grade “B” When He:

        1.       Frequently does more than required.

        2.       Has good vocabulary and speaks with conviction.

        3.       Is usually alive to the situation at hand.

        4.       Is careful in complying with assignments.

        5.       Is eager to attack new problems; profits from criticism.

        6.       Is prompt, neat, and thorough; is usually accurate in all work.

        7.       Is able to apply general principles.

        A Student Merits Grade “C” When He:

        1.       Does only what is required.

        2.       Possesses a moderate vocabulary.

        3.       Willingly applies himself during class hours.

        4.       Does daily assignments completely free from carelessness.

        5.       Is attentive to assignments.

        6.       Is able and willing to comply with instructions and cheerfully responds to correction.

        7.       Has average neatness and accuracy in all his work. 

        A Student Merits Grade “D” When He:

        1.       Usually does what is required.

        2.       Attends school irregularly.

        3.       May lack tools and equipment at times.

        4.       Frequently “misunderstands” assignments.

        5.       Is willing but slow in complying with instructions and corrections.

        6.       Is careless in preparation and presentation of work.

        7.       Lacks thoroughness and sometimes is tardy with work.

        8.       Is often unable to apply in daily life principles learned in school.

        A Student Merits Grade “F” When He:

        1.       Does less than is required.

        2.       Is listless and inattentive in class.

        3.       Frequently lacks tools and equipment for work.

        4.       Frequently is tardy with work.

        5.       Seldom knows anything outside of his lesson.

        6.       Retains only fragments of general principles of the subject. 

R.    CHILD ABUSE REPORTING OBLIGATIONS

        1.     In accord with California state law, the headmaster and school staff are obligated under penalty of fine and jail term to report the reasonable suspicion of physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional deprivation, physical neglect, inadequate supervision, or sexual abuse and exploitation.

                  a.     In this very serious and legally narrow area, the school will not contact parents in advance of making a report to legal authorities which would be the procedure followed inmost other legal matters.

                  b.      The clear intent on the law, based on the seriousness of the crimes listed above is to mandate that a report of reasonable suspicion of abuse be made.

                  c.      School staff will make such reports in the best interests of the affected child and do not, once reasonable suspicion is established, have any legal alternative except to make the report to the proper authorities for their investigation and review.

S.    NATURAL DISASTER

        1.       Students have been instructed in evacuation procedures for fire and earthquake emergencies.

a.           Students will remain with faculty personnel on or near school property unless parents are notified otherwise.

b.           Students will be released to parents.  A signed note must be on file before the child will be released to a non-parent.

T.    RECORDS

        1.       Release of records to any person is not permitted without written permission of the parent. 

                  a.       The parents or legal guardians have the right to inspect all of their student's records in the presence of the headmaster, provided twenty-four hour written notice is given.

        2.       Medical - California law requires specific health screening procedures for all children entering school for the first time.

                  a.      Proper evidence is the completed CERTIFICATION OF EXAMINATION FOR ENTRY INTO GRADE ONE, which will be placed in the student's file.   No child will be admitted unless he/she has been immunized against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, and measles. (E.C. 11704-DP-5141.5)

U.    STUDENT DRESS CODE

School uniforms are supplied by Royal Blazers.  Please see the Royal Blazers handout for uniform specifics.  Uniforms are to be worn during school hours.  Parents are expected to make sure their student leaves home dressed appropriately.

        1.       Girls Attire:

                  a.       Girls' skirts shall cover the knee (touch the floor when kneeling).

                  b.       Tasteful earrings and rings, no more than one on each ear/hand; necklaces and small pins of a religious nature.

                  c.       Black, brown or navy dress shoes are to be worn daily.  Tennis shoes, sandals, hiking boots and the like are unacceptable uniform shoes.  Tennis shoes are to be worn at recess and P.E. only.

 d.      The school sweater is the primary outer garment.  No other sweater is to be worn in the classroom.  A dark green sweatshirt/sweatpants may be worn on cold days at P.E.  On extremely cold days an outer jacket may be worn outdoors over the sweater.

        2.       Boys Attire

                  a.       Shirts must be tucked into trousers.

b.           Boys must wear the navy blue school tie every day.

                  c.      Black or brown dress shoes are to worn daily.  Tennis shoes, sandals, hiking boots and the like are unacceptable uniform shoes.  Tennis    shoes are to be worn at recess and P.E. only.

 d.     The school sweater is the primary outer garment.  No other sweater is to be worn in the classroom.  A dark green sweatshirt/sweatpants    may be worn on cold days at P.E.  On extremely cold days an outer jacket may be worn outdoors over the sweater.  No trench coats are to be worn!

 e.       If there are belt loops on the pants, a black or blue belt must be worn (no white belts please!)..

 f.        Earrings are not allowed for boys.

V.    ABUSE OF TEACHERS

       Any parent, guardian, or other person who insults or abuses any teacher in the presence or hearing of other school personnel or students and at a place which is on school premises or public sidewalks, streets other public ways adjacent to school premises or at some other place; if the teacher is required to be at such other place in connection with assigned school activities, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is punishable by a fine of not less that fifty dollars nor exceeding five hundred dollars. (E.C. 13560)

W.   EXTENDED DAY CARE

Any student arriving before 7:20AM or not picked up by 2:45PM (12:15PM on an early dismissal day), will be charged $2.50 per hour or any part of an hour.  Students must be picked up by 4:00PM Monday through Thursday.  There will be no extended day care on noon dismissal days or Fridays.

X.    COMMUNICATIONS

1.             Each family will receive important items of class-school business every Monday
        A newsletter will be sent home monthly.

Y.    Parish InvolvEment

       All Academy families are expected to participate in the life of St. Ephrem Church
       This participation includes:  monthly participation in Sunday Liturgy and a tithe of at least $250.00 yearly.

Z.    REFERRAL POLICY

       Referrals will be categorized as Behavioral and Non-Behavioral for grades 4 and above.

       Behavioral Referrals:

       Examples:  See Handbook for listing of appropriate and inappropriate school behavior.
       All behavioral referrals will be dealt with on an individual basis!  Possible penalties may include:  no recess; no field trip; detention and others.

       Non-Behavioral Referrals:

       A non-behavioral referral will result in a penalty for every three infractions.
       Examples:  Out of Uniform; Incomplete homework
       Note:  Lack of PE uniform will result in lowering of PE grade.

AA.    HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

STUDENTS ATTENDING ST. EPHREM ACADEMY ALL FOUR YEARS
St. Ephrem Academy requires 34 units of credit, each one-year course being 1 credit. Required courses include:

• English: 4 credits (English 9, English 10, English 11, English 12)
• Literature: 4 credits (World Literature, American Literature)
• Foreign Language: 4 credits
• Mathematics: 4 credits (Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Advanced Math)
• Science: 4 credits (Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• Social Studies: 4 credits (World History, U.S. History, Church History, U.S. Government/Economics)
• Religion: 4 credits
• Physical Education: 4 credits
• Art: 2 credits

TRANSFER STUDENTS
In order to earn a high school diploma at St. Ephrem Academy the student must fulfill minimal graduation requirements.  Graduation requirements differ from school to school – but the state mandated requirements are the minimum required for a student who has transferred to St. Ephrem Academy from another setting (homeschool or otherwise).  The minimum state requirements are as follows:

English:                           3 years

Mathematics:                 2 years including one year of Algebra I

Science:                            2 years including Biological and Physical Sciences

Social Studies:               3 years including U.S. History, World History and American Government/Economics

Foreign Language:        1 year

Physical Education:      2 years

Proof of the above must be in the form of an official transcript or report card(s) from a recognized academic institution/homeschool provider.  The Academy realizes that not all transferees will come from a formalized educational background.  In response to this St. Ephrem Academy has adopted alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study, which includes the practical demonstration of skills and competencies through a competency exam.

BB.  PE POLICY

 Each student begins the quarter/semester with 100 points (A grade).  Points will be deducted for irresponsibility.  The following will be considered:

        Out of uniform:  -2 points
        Unexcused Non-Participation:  -3 points
        Unsatisfactory Participation (poor sportsmanship, not following rules/directions):  -2 points
        Tardiness:  -1 point

A student also has the possibility to make-up lost points by:

         Extraordinary Effort:  +2 points

CC.     Miscellaneous

There will be NO microwave access for students this school year.