Trinity Catholic School

...forming Faith, Friendships, and Futures.

Parent/Guardian-Student Handbook

2017-2018


Table of Contents

Parent/Guardian-Student Handbook 2017-2018

  1. Philosophy...... Page 6
  2. Mission Statement of the Educational Apostolate
  3. Local Mission and Vision Statement/Religion Goals/Philosophy
  1. Catholic Dimension/Uniqueness...... Page 7
  2. Catholic Atmosphere
  3. Prayers, Practices, and Beliefs
  4. Spiritual Program
  5. Sacramental Preparation
  6. Liturgical Celebration
  7. Student Lead Prayer Services
  8. Retreats
  1. Admission Policies/Notice of Non-Discrimination...... Page 8
  2. Admission
  3. Equal Opportunity
  1. Academic Programs/Policies...... Page 9
  2. Assessment
  3. Copyright
  4. Field Trips
  5. Guidance
  6. Homework
  7. Human Sexuality Program
  8. Internet
  9. Media Center
  10. Multi-Cultural/Global Education/Gender Fair
  11. Physical Education Waiver
  12. School Parties
  13. School Day
  14. Special Services
  15. Substance Abuse Education
  16. Iowa Core Curriculum
  17. Student Assemblies-School Liturgies
  1. Communication...... Page 12
  2. Absence
  3. Complaints
  4. Dual Parent Reporting
  5. Early Dismissals - School Closing-Late Start-Policy
  6. Parent/School Communication
  7. Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences
  8. Progress Reporting
  9. Student Privacy Act
  10. Student Records
  11. Telephone
  12. Visiting Classes
  13. Attendance Procedure
  14. Locally Determined Goals-Technology
  15. School Board Meetings
  1. Discipline Code...... Page 16
  2. Discipline Code
  3. Fire Extinguishers
  4. Gangs
  5. Harassment/Bullying
  6. School Dress Code
  7. Search and Seizure
  8. Tobacco/Drinking/Use-of-Non-Prescribed Drug
  9. Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
  10. Corporal Punishment/Physical Restraint
  11. Beverages, Candy, Food, Gum
  12. Card Playing/Gambling
  1. Extracurricular Activities...... Page 20
  2. Activity options
  3. Public Conduct on School Premises
  4. Student Activities
  1. Health/Safety Issues...... Page 21
  2. Abuse
  3. AIDS
  4. Alcohol/Drug Policy
  5. Asbestos
  6. Chemical Right to Know Law
  7. Lead in the Drinking Water
  8. Prescribed Medication
  9. Safety Drills
  10. Smoking / Smoke Free Building
  11. Visitors
  12. Healthy Treats/Snacks
  13. Radon Testing
  14. Wellness Policy
  15. Healthy Kids Act
  1. Services...... Page 24
  2. Bicycles/mopeds/Automobiles
  3. Lunch
  4. Bus
  5. Lockers
  6. Lost & Found
  7. School Supplies
  8. Textbooks
  9. Tuition Tax Credits
  10. Tuition Grants
  11. Student Tuition Organization (STO)
  12. Archbishop Kurcera Grant
  13. Annual Fund Drive
  14. Trinity Tuition Reduction
  1. StaffPage 26
  2. Professional Staff listing
  3. Volunteer Aides
  1. Other ...... Page 26
  2. Birthday Parties/Invitations
  3. Annual Notices
  1. Prayers, Practices, and Beliefs...... Page 29

Policies of the Archdiocesan Faith Formation Commission and Archdiocesan Catholic School Board are referenced throughout this document. These policies can be found at the Archdiocesan website These policies are also available at the Trinity Catholic School office.

Parent/Guardian-Student Handbook 2017-2018

I. Philosophy

A. Mission Statement of the Educational Apostolate — Archdiocese of Dubuque

The mission of the Educational Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Dubuque is to promote lifelong faith formation, which challenges individuals to:

  • respond to God’s continuous call for conversion to Jesus Christ
  • form and be formed in Christian community life
  • grow in knowledge of faith
  • participate in liturgical celebrations and prayer
  • collaborate in the Church’s mission of evangelization

B. The mission of Trinity Catholic School is to form faith, friendships, and futures...

-by inspiring each child to develop to their full potential intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, physically, socially, and morally

-by establishing an atmosphere of responsibility and respect for others and the environment

-by valuing the partnership between school, community, and parents in providing the foundation for lifelong learning and independent thinking

-by inspiring students to respond to God's call in their personal lives

Mission Statement

The mission of Trinity Catholic School is to form faith, friendships and futures

-By introducing students to Jesus Christ and the joy of a relationship with him in his Church, so that they can communicate his love to others

- By inspiring children to develop to their full potential.

- By establishing an atmosphere of responsibility and respect for others and the environment.

- By valuing the partnership between school, community and parents in providing the foundation for lifelong learning and independent thinking.

Vision Statement

The vision of Trinity Catholic School is to ensure the success of every student by improving teaching and engaging students in a rigorous and relevant curriculum that produces parishioners who are missionary disciples, life-long learners, productive adults, and engaged citizens who respond to God’s call in their personal lives.

Religion Goals

  1. Students will recognize that as Catholics, by virtue of Baptism, they are called to life in Christ.
  2. Students will form a knowledge and appreciation of the sense of the Church and of the fundamentals of Catholic teaching.
  3. Students will form the beginnings of a spiritual life experienced through the liturgy and sacraments with the Catholic community.
  4. Students will participate in all forms of prayer, both personal and communal, and learn to experience the riches of God’s word through regular reading of the Bible.

Local Philosophy

-We believe that our primary responsibility as Christian educators is to inspire each child to develop to his/her potential intellectually, spiritually, morally, physically, emotionally, and socially.

-We believe that our students must be prepared for his/her role in society and in the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, we must reflect a realistic assessment of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes, which students will need to live effectively in a rapidly changing world. This includes effective communication and respect of others ideas and opinions.

-We believe in the identity of each individual and we respect the uniqueness of each person's self concept; we do expect that all students show respect to their peers, all staff members, school environment, and facilitate growth in each other.

-We believe that all school resources and personnel should be used effectively in order to provide our students with meaningful educational experiences. Therefore, we recognize and respect a variety in individual teaching and learning styles. These will foster creativity and skills in the performing and fine arts.

-We the students and educators believe we must be held responsible for our performance. Therefore, we must realize that our responsibility includes the teachers, students, and their parents in determining and achieving goals.

-We believe that we must reinforce the goal of the Archdiocese to guide individuals to a strong faith community based on Gospel values.

-We believe our students need to become responsible members of local and global communities, respectful of the environment, and demonstrate a moral use of technology.

II. Catholic Dimension/Uniqueness

Catholic Atmosphere

Religious education at Trinity Catholic School occurs in two major areas: the study of the Catholic faith and integrating faith experiences into the life of each student.

Besides classroom instruction in religion, liturgical and sacramental preparation and Mass participation is part of our school program. Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, all school liturgies, and opportunity to participate in Mass during the week are part of the spiritual life of the school.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to become aware of and encourage their child(ren) in his/her faith life. The school can only support what is taught and experienced at home.

Prayers, Practices, and Beliefs

A list of prayers and other basic beliefs and practices for students has been developed. Prayers may be introduced at one level and students may not be expected to have them memorized until the next year. However, students are expected to have an understanding of these prayers and they will be a part of our prayer at school. We encourage you to also pray with your child at home.

Spiritual Program

The spiritual program of the school recognizes that “to provide a sound academic program which includes emphasis on Catholic teachings within the atmosphere of Christian living” cannot be gained in the formal classroom only. The formal classroom learning is the beginning.

Every Christian has the responsibility to use one’s gifts for the good of the community and to minister as Jesus did. This is the core of the Christian life.

Parents/guardians are always invited to the school liturgies. Please call the office or check the website to make sure of the Mass schedule.

-Sacramental Preparation - Preparation for the first reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist will be given in second grade. Parents/guardians should be directly involved in the religious education of their children.

-Liturgical Celebration — Students and teachers plan and participate in liturgies. Parents/guardians are always welcome to attend. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is provided during Advent and Lent. Stations of the Cross occur during Lent and a Living Rosary is held in October.

- K-3 classes lead two prayer services during Advent, 4th leads one prayer services during Lent, and 5th-6th grade leads the Passion Play during Holy Week.

-Retreats: K-1 participate in a day-long Advent Retreat, 2nd graders take part in a Reconciliation retreat, 3-6 participate in Lenten retreats, 5th and 6th participate in a Marian retreat every other year, and an Inner Beauty retreat in May opposite the Marian retreat.

III. Admission Policies/Notice of Non-Discrimination

Admission

Children who are five years of age by September 15 are eligible to enroll for entrance into kindergarten. Children who are six years of age by September 15 are eligible to enroll for entrance into the first grade. Exceptions to this policy are not allowed. (AFFC/ACSB Policy 5112)

Children are charged tuition. Trinity Catholic School will accept students of any religious conviction. However, as a student, everyone is considered a part of the total school community and will be included and expected to participate in all activities scheduled as part of the class day, and all required classes even those of a religious nature.

Equal Opportunity

Trinity Catholic School is an equal opportunity employer and school. No student will be discriminated against because of his or her race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, socioeconomic status, marital status, or disability. However, students are required to meet the school’s academic and financial requirement(s). As a bona fide religious institution, educational programs governed by the Archdiocesan Catholic School Board may consider a student’s religion, sexual orientation and/or gender identity a qualification for enrollment when such qualifications are related to a bona fide religious purpose.

IV. Academic Policies/Programs

Assessment

Students in grades 1-6 take the Iowa Assessments. FAST Testing is administered three times per year to students in Kindergarten through 6th grade. We administer other assessments as required. This is at the discretion of the classroom teacher. The ACRE test is taken in the Spring in grade 5, and I-ELDA are taken in the spring by English Language Learners.

When test results have been returned and analyzed, parents/guardians will receive appropriate information. In addition, personal conferences are available with parents to go over the results in more detail. Parents are encouraged to set up appointments if they wish more information.

Copyright

It is the policy of the educational programs governed by the Archdiocesan Catholic School Board (AFFC/ACSB #2510) that all employees, volunteers, and students will abide by the federal copyright laws. Employees, volunteers, and students may copy print or non-print materials allowed by:

  1. copyright law
  2. fair use guidelines
  3. specific licenses or contractual agreements
  4. other types of permission

Employees, volunteers, and students who willfully disregard copyright law are in violation of Archdiocesan policy, and are doing so at their own risk and assuming all liability.

Field Trips

Field trips aid the instructional program by enabling the children to experience educational resources not found in the classroom. All students are expected to observe school policies when they are on field trips. Students are also expected to provide a signed permission slip from their parents/guardians. The school tries to send these slips home early in order to provide more than adequate time for the forms to be completed and returned. Without a completed form, according to Archdiocesan policy students are not allowed to take part in the trip and will remain at school. No part of the field trip form can be left incomplete, nor can any portion be crossed off.

Students will leave school, remain, and return together with their assigned group and chaperone. They may not be excused to leave the group during the trip. Parents may provide a written note in order to take their own child home from the field trip location.

Guidance

Our counseling program complements the curricular offerings by offering support to students in a number of areas.

Homework

Homework is encouraged in order to teach students the importance of practice, review, and application. Teachers will try to assign homework in accord with the age of students. Parents/guardians should not have to instruct students but are encouraged to support the process through questions and suggestions when appropriate. If you feel like your child is receiving too much homework and/or work that is too difficult or too easy on a regular basis, please contact your child’s teacher. A good rule of thumb is ten minutes of homework daily for each year of school. In other words at 6th grade students should have about sixty minutes of homework. This would include reading and studying spelling words, as well as daily assigned work.

Human Sexuality Program

Human sexuality instruction is integrated into the Religion program and is presented from the Catholic perspective in the context of total growth. Parental/guardian support and involvement is an essential component of this program. Information will be sent to parents/guardians as the time for this program approaches. An option is provided for students whose parents/guardians do not want them to participate in these classes. A request for exemption must be in writing to the principal. Parents are permitted to review the course materials at any time. Please refer to AFFC/ACSB policy #6141.11 for specific details.

Internet

It is the policy of educational programs governed by the Archdiocesan Catholic School Board to require the ethical use of the Internet and related technologies by all employees, volunteers and students. (AFFC/ACSB #2511,AFFC/ACSB #5144.3) Access privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action taken for any violations that are unethical and may constitute a criminal offense.

Media Center

The students will be able to use the media center with supervision of school personnel.

Multi-Cultural/Gender Fair/Global Education

Trinity Catholic School offers a global, multi-cultural, gender fair approach to the educational program. Trinity Catholic School is committed “to a curriculum that fosters respect and appreciation for cultural and racial diversity and an awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of each individual as a member of a multicultural, gender fair society.” (AFFC/ACSB #6144.2) The education program is one of permeation and action for the implementation of the global, multicultural, and gender fair elements of the students’ education.

Physical Education Waiver

A pupil shall not be required to enroll in either physical education or health courses if the pupil’s parent or guardian files a written statement with the school principal that the course conflicts with the pupil’s religious beliefs. (AFFC/ACSB #6144.3)

School Parties

Parties that consume valuable school time are discouraged. However, students may bring birthday treats. Healthy treats are recommended. If a student should wish to do this, the treats will be passed and shared.

After school parties are the responsibility of parents/guardians. Late evening parties are discouraged during the school week.

School Day

School begins at 8:20 A.M. and dismissal is at 2:55 P.M. Bus riders will be dismissed first. Once the bus has left, walkers and students being picked up will be dismissed. Parents may pull into the parking lot and wait for their child(ren) to exit the building. Students are dismissed under supervision of the school principal.

Special Services

The service of a psychologist, school nurse, social worker, speech therapist and diagnostic testing for learning disabilities are available through AEA 1. Requests for these services are made by parents, or by teachers in agreement with parents and the school principal through the Problem Solving Team at school. All parental rights are strictly maintained.

When your child has been referred for special education services, federal and state laws give you certain rights. Some of these are:

  1. The right to be contacted and told what the school plans to do about your child’s educational program. This must be done before your child is tested or placed in a program.
  2. You have the right to consent. This means the school must have your permission prior to placing your child in a special education program.
  3. The right to a full evaluation of your child’s needs. If you don’t agree with the school’s findings you may request an outside evaluation.
  4. The right to see your child’s records kept at school.
  5. The right to privacy of information. With a few exceptions, no one may see your child’s record without your permission, given in writing. Exceptions are people such as your child’s teacher, or other school officials engaged in planning your child’s educational program.
  6. The right, as much as possible, to have your child in classes with children who are not in special education programs.
  7. The right to be involved in the development of your child’s IEP (individual education program).
  8. The right to have someone present to help you in the development of your child’s IEP. This could be another parent, a teacher, a lawyer, or an advocate.
  9. The right to appeal decisions made by the school regarding your child’s diagnosis or placement.

If you desire additional information, please contact your child’s principal.

Substance Abuse Education

A substance education program is one component of the guidance program. It includes basic student education reinforcing activities/events, family education (through parent meetings), and utilization of appropriate community agencies.