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St. Mary's School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. St. Mary's does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
This handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of St. Mary's. To meet this objective, the School administration is given flexibility and the ability to exercise discretion. In appropriate circumstances, the Principal has the discretion to take actions other than those specified in this Handbook. This Handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create any additional rights for students or parents/guardians.
This Handbook is subject to change at any time when determined to be necessary by the School administration. If changes are made to the Handbook, parents/guardians will be notified promptly.
The non-Catholic student is welcome at St. Mary's. The non-Catholic student is expected to understand and agree that the School exists to educate in the framework of Catholic values. Non-Catholic students must participate in the Religion classes and liturgical services scheduled for students during the school year.
St. Mary's School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges, April 1995 and updated in 1998 and again in 2001.
All teachers who are hired in a Catholic School of the Archdiocese must have a B.A. or B.S. degree and state certification, or are working toward certification. They should also have a commitment to the philosophy of Catholic Education and a willingness to work for the development of a Faith Community.
We, the members of St. Mary's parish, are committed to being a dynamic faith community in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. As baptized Catholic Christians we strive to help each other grow in our knowledge of and love of Christ.
All parishioners are invited to participate actively in the life of the parish community, to increase their awareness of the Catholic Faith, and to use their gifts for the good of the total community.
We strive to become a warm, loving and hospitable community.
Commentary;
a) We recognize our past and strive to grow on it, and out of it. We maintain the good we have and nurture the faith of each other...
b) We are a faith community; it is our faith that brings us together... We are believers...and belief is nourished in community... "where two or three are gathered in my name I am there in their midst." We come together in liturgy, social life, outreach to others, through our sharing in financial offerings and food offerings.
c) We have a vision of Church (people) steeped in the documents of Vatican II. We are a progressive community of growth... We need to study and define clearer the vision of a Vatican II church... the role of the people emphasized...We are the Church. Each person is important in the growth of the life and direction of the church... We all need to come to more and continuous knowledge and love of Christ. We all need to grow... Christ is the center and focus of our life...Our priorities are set around His teachings.
d) We encounter Christ in many ways: sacraments, Eucharist, word and in each person we meet.
e) As baptized we share a special bond with Christ in His mission and with fellow Christians.
All invited to participate:
a) Each person shares actively in the mission of the Church. The mission of the local Church is part of the mission of the universal Church; as seen through the teaching of the Pope, the Archbishop, the local representatives of both. Membership and active involvement in the mission of the Church is envisioned by Vatican II documents. b) A faith life is subject to growth...to be alive is to grow...but, what does it mean to grow in faith life, what does it mean to be Catholic today? c) Participation calls for sharing our gifts...Baptism is the beginning of life in the Spirit, and the Spirit endows each person with special gifts. Each person is invited to pray and to discover their special and unique gift and to use it to serve the mission of Christ which is the mission of the Church. Each person is special. 1 Cor. 12 d) St. Paul reminds us gifts are given for the whole community, for the good and welfare of the whole Church. 1 Cor. 12:7 Our special gifts are used, therefore, for St. Mary's Parish and at the same time for the community of Rahway, the larger community. As members of the local Church we are also called upon to use our gifts for the universal Church; therefore the Archdiocese and the Church at large. Everyone of God's children are brother and sister to me, therefore my gift and resource is for the whole community. Called to be a warm, loving and hospitable community: a) Each person must feel that he/she belongs... b) a friendly, welcoming people and community...we care about each other...all are welcome regardless of race, color, creed, nationality, politics, etc... As Parish/Community we are one family.
We, the members of St. Mary's Parish and School, are committed to being a dynamic faith community in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. Our school aims to fulfill this commitment to young people with respect to their immediate environment and their ultimate goal for the future.
Fulfillment of this commitment calls for active participation in the sharing of our special gifts. Our gifts are used for St. Mary's Parish and School and, at the same time, for the larger community of Rahway. Each of God's children is brother or sister to me; therefore, my gifts and resources are for the whole community. All people must feel they belong to a community that cares about the individual regardless of race, color, creed, or nationality. As a community we are one family.
We propose to encourage the individual to seek ways to grow spiritually and to develop God-given abilities wisely. We propose to develop skills, virtues, and habits of heart and mind required for effective service to others, as well as in accordance with the ideals of the American democratic society.
Our primary purpose in Catholic Education is to prepare students to become active and beneficial participants in their physical, as well as spiritual communities, presently and in the future. To achieve this goal we must:
1) make them proficient in language, mathematics, reading, social studies, library skills, science, computers, physical education, health and art. 2) aim to form students as true lovers of freedom and disciplined seekers of truth to foster self-discipline and responsibility through sound reasoning and Christian guidance weighing moral values with an upright conscience, embracing personal choice, and to come to a greater knowledge and love of God. 3) celebrate diversity amongst peoples and assume a positive, active role in a democratic society. 4) instill in them a need for prayer and a discovery of their special and unique gifts and how it serves the church, community, nature and the arts.
In our attempt to fulfill this ultimate design, we involved in the Catholic school - parents, pastor, priests, administrators, teachers and students - must endeavor to make it a Community of Faith which is indeed alive, alert and active, trusting not only in ourselves, but also in Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
St. Mary's gives preference to:
AGE. A birth certificate must be submitted for proof of age.
The Nursery child must be three years old on or before October 1.
The Pre-Kindergarten child must be four years old on or before October 1.
The Kindergarten child must be five years old on or before October 1.
The First Grade child must be six years old on or before October 1.
Diseases Meets Immunization Requirements D.T.P. 4 doses, with one dose given on or after the 4th birthday, OR any 5 doses Oral Polio 3 doses, with one dose given on or after the 4th birthday Polio Salk 3 doses of IPV, with one dose given on or after the 4th birthday Measles 2 doses of a measles containing vaccine, if born after 1/1/90 and entering school at the Kindergarten or 1st grade level for the first time after 9/1/95 Rubella 1 Dose Rubella Vaccine OR Laboratory Evidence of Immunity Mumps 1 Dose Mumps Vaccine OR Laboratory Evidence of Immunity Haemophilis B 2 doses (Hib)AN APPLICANT WHOSE IMMUNIZATION RECORD IS INCOMPLETE WILL NOT BE ADMITTED.
For the health of our students, please do not let your child return to school until 24 hours after his temperature is normal.
As part of your enrollment agreement/tuition agreement, you MUST actively take part in the Fundraising events organized by the Home School Association. They are as follows;
1 - Purchase of at least one (1) book of Parish Monthly 50/50 chances. You can purchase all six chances yourself or sell them to others.
2 - Purchase a minimum of $75 worth of Food Certificates monthly (on average) to equal $750 in total for the school year.
3 - Participate in the Gertrude Hawk Candy Sale at Easter time (minimum committment is $36 in candy sales).
4 - Donate either a merchandise basket or $25 to Tricky Tray.
5 - Work 4 Bingo's each year.
The above mentioned events are mandatory and supported by St. Mary's Parish Financial Council and the Executive Board of the HSA. Failure to actively participate in these events will result in a Non-participation assessment of $300 for items 1-4; and an additional $300 for item 5.
Review of activities will be on a monthly basis. The Non-participation assessment must be paid before your child/children cen enter for the following school year.
Tuition payments begin each June, after registering, and continue through the month of March of the school Year. In January re-registration and registration takes place and a $85.00 non-refundable fee is charged plus a $75.00 Home School Fee. No child will be re-registered unless all tuition payments are up to date.
Payments for tuition should be made to SMART Tuition.
Payments to SMART are duw by the 10th or 20th of the month according to your payment plan. If not paid by the date stated in your coupon booklet, a late fee of $10 will be charged.
If a newly registered parishioner applies for admission, the School imposes a trial membership period of six months to determine if the family is attending church services and contributing through their church envelopes. At that time the tuition will be adjusted to the in-parish rate.
Catholic Applicants: A Baptismal Certificate and verification of reception of any additional sacrament(s) is required.
Transfer Students. In addition to all of the above items, a transfer notification and most recent report card from the previous school is required. New students will be on probation for one marking period to insure they are following school rules.
In order to facilitate the transfer of a student from St. Mary's to another school, the parents must come in to fill out the appropriate form with the new school's name and address and transfer cards and health records will be given to the parent the last day of attendance. All other records will be sent to the new school after the authorization form has been signed. All tuition must be up to date and all books and library fines are due before the transfer is completed.
"Prompt, regular attendance is absolutely essential to academic success. The parent/guardian is expected to foster these good habits in the student, both for the benefit of the student's current academic achievement and to encourage mature adult behavior in the future."
A parent/guardian must call the School no later than 9:00 to report a student's absence. If no call has been received by 9:00, the School secretary will make a reasonable effort to reach a parent/guardian by phone to verify the legitimacy of the absence. These procedures represent a mutual effort to account for the presence of the student during school hours.
When the child returns to school, s/he must present to the Teacher a written excuse from a parent/guardian stating the student's name together with the dates and reason for the absence. An absence of five consecutive days requires a doctor's note.
School's responsibility for supervision of students begins at 8:15 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. For children properly enrolled in the School's extended care program, the School's responsibility for supervision begins at 7:30 AM and ends at 5:30 PM.
A child is considered late when the second bell has rung and the students have entered the building. When the doors have closed the parent must accompany the child to the office and receive a late slip to enter class. Punctuality is a sign of both responsibility and self-discipline, traits which we expect to develop.
CARE program will operate on a full calendar schedule, closing for legal holidays only from Sept. - June. A summer program will be available.
If a student is absent from school because of illness or disciplinary action, s/he will not be permitted to take part in extracurricular or athletic activities that afternoon or evening.
If a student is absent from school for a reason other than illness or disciplinary action, the School reserves the right to make an individual judgment regarding same-day extracurricular and athletic participation.
No student may be out the week in March when Scholastic Testing is being administered unless ill. This testing usually takes 15 hours of school time and is spread over a period of four days.
A student who deliberately avoids coming to school, contrary to the wishes of his/her parent/guardian, is considered truant. Habitual truancy will be reported to the Attendance Officer of the child's district of residence. A student who is chronically truant will be subject to discipline.
In the event of severe storm or other emergency, special announcements will be made over the radio that schools are closed or we will have a delayed opening (10:00 AM). St. Mary's will conform to the decision of the Rahway Public Schools.
This announcement will say "ALL RAHWAY SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED" THIS INCLUDES ST. MARY'S
The announcement will be carried by the following radio stations:
WNJN - 101.5 FM WINS - 1010 AM CABLE TV - Channel 36In case of bad weather when no announcement is made, parents are advised to use their own judgment, in sending their child to school, particularly with younger children who must walk.
Appointments with School Personnel. Parents who wish to meet with the Principal, a teacher, or any member of the School staff must contact the Office to arrange a mutually convenient meeting time. For the sake of good order in the School, parents may not approach staff members during the school day without arranging an appointment beforehand.
Staff members who wish to communicate with the parents of a student may do so by phone, letter or a mutually convenient appointment. Teachers will not schedule an appointment at times that conflict with teaching or supervisory duties.
When appointments are made, both the parent and the staff member should be aware of the purpose of the conference so that all concerned may be appropriately prepared.
Regular Communication with All Parents. This parent handbook is your major source of information on policy. A yearly calendar is sent home in June. A monthly calendar and newsletter are sent home during the school year with each student. At special times, school brochures will be mailed home, or distributed through the children.
Children bringing cash to school. Money that is sent to school should be placed in a sealed envelope and identified with the child's name and room, the amount enclosed and its purpose.
Home-School Association Responsibilities.
To provide parents the opportunity to become fully aware of the content and style of the school's educational programs.
To foster frequent and positive parent-teacher-child interactions as they affect the religious and general education of the students.
To encourage those specific areas of parental support required by the teachers in order to make the classroom teaching more effective and thus ensure a quality education.
To clarify the specific responsibilities of parent, teachers, student, principal, pastor, and Home School Association for achieving the school's educational goals.
Generate fund raising activities to offset the expenses of the school, and to make contributions to the school in areas of sport as well as academics.
School Records. St. Mary's School abides by the provisions of applicable law with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary and upon request, the School will provide the non-custodial parent with access to the student's essential academic records.
Court Orders. If there is a court order specifying the rights and responsibilities of individual parents, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the School with an official copy of the court order. The custodial parent may wish to supply the Principal with the "custody section" of the divorce decree if it contains information which may be useful to the School in fulfilling its obligations.
Pick-Up from School. The School will permit only the custodial parent, or her/his designee, to pick up the child during or at the end of the school day. The non-custodial parent will not be permitted to remove the child from school during or at the end of the school day, unless there is written authorization from the custodial parent. In an emergency, a clearly defined, one-time telephone authorization may be acceptable.
Organization to help off-set school maintenance and improvement through volunteer services and fundraising.
Pastor's Cup Basketball Tournament to raise funds for Rahway Civic Organizations.
Contact Don Godfrey - 732-381-1239
Books & Equipment. Each student is responsible for the proper care and return of all books and equipment he receives from the school. Any book or piece of equipment which is lost, damaged or defaced in any way while loaned to the students for his use must be paid for in full prior to the end of the school term. No new book or equipment will be issued during the school year until proper settlement is made. Books are to be carried in some type of book bag to and from school; this bag should be marked with the pupil's name and address. All books must be covered throughout the entire school year.
Nursery/Pre-K Program. The Nursery program and Pre-K program are offered to students 3-4 years of age by Oct. 1 of the school year in attendance. St. Mary's offers a 1/2 day or full day program, 8:30 - 11:30 or 8:30 - 2:30.
The program offers the students a wide variety of activities including academic lessons, group and individual play periods, gym, library, computer and art classes, along with class trips and special assemblies.
Religious Education and Religious Services. The non-Catholic student is welcome at St. Mary's. The non-Catholic student is expected to understand and agree that the School exists to educate in the framework of Catholic values. Non-Catholic students must participate in the Religion classes and liturgical services scheduled for students during the school year.
School Lunch Program. St. Mary's School had initiated the Government Hot Lunch Program some time back. All children may purchase hot lunch provided a form given to the children at the beginning of school, has been completed by the parent and returned to school. A menu for the month is distributed and children may choose to buy or not.
Cafeteria Schedules.
1st Lunch 11:45-12:10
2nd Lunch 12:10-12:30
During inclement weather the first Lunch Group will be supervised in the gym
while the 1st Group eats lunch. At the bell, the positions will be
reversed.
The next Lunch Group will remain in the cafeteria at their respective tables until their homeroom teachers lead them to class.
Art classes are held once a week for all students in grades Pre-K to 8.
All grades Pre-K through 8 go to the library every week for supervision in library skills and to check out books.
Students may borrow the books from the library for a one-week period but may renew the books if needed.
The library also contains visual aids such as tapes, filmstrips, kits and records as well as audiovisual equipment. A rather large reference section is available for use by the students.
Computers with internet access are also available for research projects.
All grades Pre-K to 8 have physical education classes. The students in Pre-K and Kindergarten have physical education class once a week. Physical Education runs in 4 cycles from grades 5-8, two cycles of gym, 1 cycle of health and 1 cycle of swim instruction at the YMCA. three days a week during each cycle. Students in grades K-4 have 3 cycles of gym and 1 cycle of health, two times a week.
A written excuse by the parent, doctor or school nurse is the only reason a student will be exempt from taking part in the physical education program at school. The note will be regarded as a one-time excuse unless the length of excuse is otherwise indicated in the note.
Computers are available in all classrooms, as well as the computer lab and library. Copernicus is accessible to check with each individual class. Most classes and the computer lab have internet access
On occasion, St. Mary's will sponsor and conduct field trips for the educational enrichment of the students. Participation in field trips is a privilege. No student may participate in a field trip unless a signed parent/guardian permission slip for the specific event is submitted to the School. The permission slip form is provided by the School.
Halfway through each marking period Progress Reports will be sent home for all students. These evaluation reports are submitted to help both the students and the parent understand the reasons for unsatisfactory scholastic achievement or possible subject failure of the student or to verify that the student is progressing well. We ask the parent to sign the reports and return them to the School within three days of receipt. In addition to the indicated dates, reports may be sent to parents at the discretion of the teacher to within one week of Report Card date.
All children must maintain a "C" average in all major subjects to be promoted to the next grade level. Physical Education must be passed for promotion. Parents are asked to keep a check on report card grades but they will be notified of any serious problems regarding academics.
HOMEWORK is a very important part of the learning process. It reviews the work of the day and prepares for test taking.
NOTIFICATION will be made to the parents in March of any child who may be in consideration of retention. This will allow the parents time to work with the child to try and get the marks within the passing average.
All students must have a "C" average in all major subjects to be awarded a diploma. Any student failing one or two subjects must attend summer school to receive a diploma at the end of the course. A students failing three major subjects must repeat grade 8.
Dates for graduation must conform to the Archdiocesan Calendar of 180 days.
Tuition must be up to date, or no monies for graduation related activities will be accepted.
The standardized testing program at St. Mary's is designed to determine readiness, growth potential, and academic achievement. These tests have their limitations and are only intended to provide indicators of a student's year by year development.
The Archdiocese of Newark has adopted the Terra Nove Tests effective in 1999.
Report cards are given out 4 times during the school year. The purpose of report cards is to provide information to the parents concerning achievement, work and study habits, as well as performance. The kindergarten students do not receive their first report card until January. Letter grades will be given starting at the 2nd grade.
The grading system used by St. Mary's in Grades 2-8 is standard throughout the Archdiocese of Newark. The grading system is as follows:
A+ 97 - 100 C+ 78 - 82 A 92 - 96 C 73 - 77 B+ 88 - 91 D 70 - 72 B 83 - 87 U Below 70 S - Satisfactory I - Improvement U - Unsatisfactory
Honors will be given in grades 4-8.
FIRST A average in all subject areas Satisfactory conduct grades required SECOND A & B average or above in all subject areas Satisfactory conduct grades required
Homework is given every day except weekends. It is important that your child develop the habit of doing his or her work carefully and getting it done on time. Be sure your child gathers all school materials needed at night, so they come to school prepared in the AM.
Each child in grades 2 - 5 must have their assignment sheet signed by a parent or guardian on Thursday night and returned on Friday. Grade 6 - 8 will place assignments in a memo pad, to be checked nightly and signed on Thursday night.
Assignments must be completed and brought in on time.
Absenteeism - Assignments must be made up. The child is to ask the teacher or a friend for the assignments (class work and homework).
If your child does not understand an assignment have him/her ask the teacher to explain it before he/she leaves the classroom.
Children must always use the complete heading on the paper.
Select a quiet spot in your home to insure concentration on the given assignment. Please check your child's homework each night. Keep all school materials in one spot, including gym uniforms and sneakers.
Neatness and accuracy is expected. Untidy papers will not be accepted, this work will be returned and redone.
Suggested Homework Time: Grades 1 - 2 1/2 hour Grades 3 - 4 - 5 1 to 1 1/2 hours Grades 6 - 7 - 8 2 to 2 1/2 hours
A spirit of Christ-like charity, respect for authority and mutual cooperation are essential elements of the learning environment at St. Mary's School. Students are expected to act with courtesy and respect toward one another and toward all members of the staff. They must take seriously their obligation to develop lifetime habits of self-controol and concern for the well-being of others. Home and School will work together to help students to learn and live the qualities of responsible behavior and the elements of good citizenship.
A student who chooses to disrupt the good order of the School or to violate a policy or regulation will have to accept the consequences of those irresponsible choices. Appropriate discipline is within the discretion of the Principal. Accountability for uncooperative, disruptive or unsafe behavior may take any of the following forms: misconduct referrals or warnings; punishment assignments; denial of privileges; detention; in-school suspensions; out-of-school suspensions; or expulsion.
Actions which violate the law, threaten or cause harm to other students or staff members, disrupt or impede the welfare and progress of the School community, or bring discredit to the School will not be tolerated. Such actions or other severe violations of School rules may result in immediate expulsion. If a student persists in violating basic obligations of courtesy, consideration, respect, cooperation or safety, a Principal/Parent/Student conference will be scheduled. All subsequent discipline, counseling, consultation and corrective action plans will be viewed as positive home-School efforts to help the student improve behavior. If these cooperative efforts of parents and school staff prove ineffective, the student will be subject to expulsion or may be denied readmittance to the School.
Definitions: Controlled Dangerous Substances are defined in sections I through V of the NJ Criminal Code. They include but are not limited to: marijuana, heroin and anabolic steroids. The term controlled dangerous substance shall also include alcohol. Under the Influence: A student is judged to be under the influence whenever s/he exhibits physical or physiological symptoms (including but not limited to unsteady walk, dilated pupils, slurred speech, erratic or uncharacteristic emotional reactions) which are commonly associated with the use of controlled dangerous substances. Possession is defined as knowingly or purposely obtaining or possessing, actively or *constructively, a controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia: a) on or off school property; b) on the person; c) in an accessory (including but not limited to purse, book bag, gym bag or knapsack); d) in a locker or desk; and e) in a privately or school-owned vehicle. *Constructive possession refers to a student who intends or has the capacity to exercise control over the drug/paraphernalia even if s/he does not have physical possession of the item. For example, who hides drugs on school property or asks a classmate to hold drugs for him/her, constructively possesses the drugs. Distribution is defined as sharing, selling or dispensing a controlled dangerous substance a) on or off school property; b) with or without receiving payment; and c) to individuals enrolled or not enrolled in the school. Possession with Intent to Distribute applies regardless of whether or not a student intended a) to receive payment b) to distribute the controlled dangerous substance to an individual enrolled or not enrolled in the school; and c) to distribute the controlled dangerous substance on or off school property. Policy: 1) A student shall be considered in violation of school policy if s/he is observed a) to be under the influence, b) in possession, c) engaged in distribution, or d) have possession of a controlled dangerous substance. 2) Such a student shall be subject to the following provisions and to the general discipline policy stated in this Handbook. a) When a student is identified as being “under the influence” or “in possession” of a controlled dangerous substance, the principal MAY refer the matter to local law enforcement officials. b) When a student is identified as “distributing” or “in possession with intent to distribute” a controlled dangerous substance, the principal MUST refer the matter to law enforcement officials. 3) A student suspected of violating the policy governing controlled dangerous substances will immediately be placed under suspension for an indefinite period. The student and parents/guardians shall be given a reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegation as quickly as possible. 4) If the principal determines that there a) was no violation of policy, the student will be permitted to return to school. b) was a violation of policy, the principal may discipline the student according to the general discipline policy stated in this Handbook up to and including expulsion. 5) The principal may require the student to participate in an appropriate treatment or counseling program as a condition of the student’s eventual return to the school. 6) When violation of this policy involves “distribution” or “possession with intent to distribute”, the discipline imposed will normally be expulsion.
Discipline begins in the home at an early age. A well-disciplined child will direct his interests, efforts, and abilities toward greater achievement. Those who are well disciplined take advantage of the individual opportunities and help create a conducive learning situation for their classmates. When in school, discipline becomes the teacher's responsibility. At St. Mary's, discipline is considered an aspect of moral guidance. Our purpose in discipline is to promote a genuine pupil development, to increase respect for duly constituted authority. to assist the growth of supernatural motives for self-discipline, and to provide an atmosphere conducive to learning. Teachers, like parents, are sometimes tried beyond their patience, and greatly appreciate the cooperation of the home on those occasions.
After much discussion and thought the following guidelines exist for assurance of the safety and good education environment of the school children.
If a child is consistently disruptive the parents will be notified. This may be by conference, telephone, mail. Any serious infraction that hurts the child, classmate, or endangers anyone will come into consideration.
In the corridors, schoolyard, streets, as well as classroom, we must have children who behave in a polite and safe way.
Repeated commitment of the following infractions will result in I or U in conduct on the report card.
1. Consistent Classroom disruption 2. Corridor Misbehavior 3. Lunchroom Disruption 4. Repeated Lateness 5. Failure to do Homework 6. Lack of Christian attitudes toward Adults and Classmates 7. Playground Roughness 8. Not following Patrol Orders 9. Consistent Uncooperation with Teachers 10. Misconduct during Fire Drills 11. Destruction of any school property - this will also require full payment on the part of the parents 12. Alcohol and Drug Use 13. Truancy 14. Weapons in School
The faculty feels that a detention policy is needed to prevent constant disregard of school rules. This detention will be served in the morning, anytime from 7:30 to 8:30, depending on the infraction. If a student receives a warning that they are in violation of a school rule, and continues to violate hat rule, a detention will be given. It will be the responsibility of the parent to insure their child is present to serve the detention.
If there is no improvement in conduct by then more serious consequences will be instituted; such as suspension, or eventual expulsion.
Any student having a repeat of U in personal development for two consecutive marking periods will be removed from any sport, or patrol, if they belong to them. These are special honors and if they do not learn self-discipline, courtesy, proper behavior, they could not possibly be part of such special groups.
If a student's behavior is generally disruptive and uncooperative, it will be necessary to ask parents to choose another school for their child. We cannot sacrifice the education of the whole class because of the disruptive behavior of one student.
No child will be permitted to use the telephone (public telephone included) during the school day without the permission of the principal. Children become too dependent upon parents to bring assignments, lunch, sneakers, etc. to school because the child has forgotten them.
We are striving to teach the student a sense of responsibility. In an emergency the Nurse or the Secretary will call.
St. Mary's School strongly discourages the administration of either prescription or non-prescription medication in school or on field trips. However, if it is absolutely essential that a student receive medication while under school supervision, the following procedures apply.
1. A parent/guardian should come to the School and personally administer the medication. 2. If this arrangement is not possible, the School Nurse or the Principal (or his/her designee) will administer the medication under the following conditions: a. The medication must be given to the School Nurse or Principal by the parent/guardian; b. The medication must be in the original pharmacy-labelled container; and c. The parent/guardian and the student's physician must complete and sign an "Authorization to Administer Medication in School" form. This form is available from the School.
Students will be permitted to self-administer medication only for life-threatening illnesses or conditions. The parent/guardian must schedule a conference with the school nurse to discuss in detail the need for the medication. The parent/guardian and the student's physician must complete and sign an "Authorization for Self-Administration of Medication in School" form. This form is available from the School.
To insure a safe dismissal for our children, free from accidents, it is necessary that an orderly and organized dismissal be maintained. Therefore, if you drive your child to school and pick him/her up at dismissal time, please leave and pick up your child at the playground.
You may drive onto the playground to pick up your child for after school dismissal providing you park behind the cone and roped area during the day.
DO NOT DRIVE ONTO THE PLAYGROUND DURING THE DAY.
Please remind your child to cross only at the corner, serviced by the Crossing Guard - NOT BETWEEN CARS.
New Jersey School law required two fire drills per month in each school. The objective of these drills is to evacuate the building in the shortest possible time in an orderly manner. They simulate emergency conditions and last approximately five minutes. Fire drills will not be held during inclement weather.
To provide for our students physically as well as mentally, the following services are available:
Dental: Topical dental screening is done each year in certain grades.
Hearing: Students are tested for hearing loss. Parents are notified if hearing loss is evidenced.
Height and Weight: Each student's height and weight is taken and recorded annually.
Physical Examination: In accordance with the State's School Health Act, physical examinations are required three times in the 8 years of school.
1. Prior to original entry of the child into school by a private physician
2. In Grades 3 and 6 by school or private physician.
If the parent chooses the services of a private physician, the school will provide them with the necessary form.
Vision: Every student is given a vision test annually, and parents are notified if further testing is needed.
The school carries insurance to cover student accidents through the Archdiocese. This insurance will help pay accident costs only after Parent/Guardian Insurance fulfills its obligations.
New Jersey State law requires that any person who has reasonable cause to believe that a child may have been subjected to abuse or neglect, must make a report to the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services.
The School's Asbestos Management Plan is on file in the School office, as required by the federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). This document is available for examination upon request.
UNIFORM - Improper uniforms will receive a warning, followed by a note to the parent. The BOYS K-8 School Uniform Consists of: Navy School Pants White or Blue School Dress Shirt (Long or Short sleeve) Navy Uniform Sweater Vest with School Emblem Navy Tie Sturdy Shoes - Buckle or Ties, no boots above the ankle (shoes may be purchased from Greene’s Uniform Co. or B&J Shoes, Rahway) The BOYS Summer Uniform (Sept/Oct/May/June) Consists of: Blue or White 1/2 sleeve Knit Shirt w/school name embroidered Navy Uniform Walk Short Sneakers/Shoes The BOYS Gym Uniform is: Gym Tee Shirt w/school logo Navy Fleece Gym Short Navy Sweat Shirt w/school logo Navy Sweat Pants w/school logo DRESS CODE - GIRLS The GIRLS K-4 School Uniform Consists of: Plaid School Jumper w/emblem White or Blue blouse with rounded collar (long or short sleeves) Blue Knee socks or Navy Tights Blue Cardigan Sweater w/emblem (Optional) The GIRLS 5-8 School Uniform Consists of: Grey Box Pleat Skirt White or Blue blouse with pointed collar (long or short sleeves) Blue Cardigan Sweater vest w/emblem Blue or Grey Knee socks Sturdy Shoes - Buckle or Ties (no heels over 1" will be allowed) (shoes may be purchased from Greene’s Uniform Co. or B&J Shoes, Rahway) The GIRLS Summer Uniform (Sept/Oct/May/June) Consists of: Blue or White 1/2 sleeve Knit Shirt w/school name embroidered Navy Uniform Walk Short Sneakers or shoes The GIRLS Gym Uniform is: Gym Tee Shirt w/school logo Navy Fleece Gym Short Navy Sweat Shirt w/school logo Navy Sweat Pants w/school logo Sneakers MUST be worn or students will receive an incomplete. On Gym days, full uniform will be worn. Sweats may be removed at discretion of gym teacher. Properly label all clothing.
Appropriate shoes will be worn. No boots over the ankle or shoes with over a one inch heel will be allowed. Shoes may be purchased from Greene’s Uniform Co. or B&J Shoes, Irving Street, Rahway.
In order to insure our students the fullest opportunity for good health, safety and learning, the administration reserves the right to exercise discretion in determining what is appropriate dress and grooming. Therefore, we will not permit nail polish and make-up to be worn or brought to school. The boys hair should be cut and trimmed to the top of their shirt collar as well, no designs cut into hair and no tails will be allowed. So as not to discriminate, all students will not wear jewelry to school including earrings. This is necessary to meet gym requirements and to insure that jewelry is not lost or misplaced.
Walkman, radios, tape/cd players, cell phones are not allowed.
St. Mary's School tries to accentuate the positive by developing in a student pride both in achievement and effort. Certificates of merit are awarded to students whose accomplishments are note-worthy. Personal recognition and the development of a good self image are fostered through the various sports events and school programs.
An interscholastic sports program including track, basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball is available.
Since the school shares with the family and the wider community a responsibility for the education of the whole child, one major aim of St. Mary's is to teach social awareness, values, and a knowledge of the dynamics of human relationships. Through adult example and activities that require social interaction students have the opportunity to grow in these important areas.
ACTIVITY GRADE Patrols 6 - 8 Peer Facilitators 6 - 8 Athletics Basketball 3 - 8 Volleyball 5 - 8 Softball 5 - 8 Cheerleading 1 - 6