MARIA IMMACOLATA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

"ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE WITHIN A CHRISTIAN SETTING"

VISION STATEMENT

Maria Immacolata Catholic School, founded in 1965, continues as a unique elementary school educating students in Pre-K through grade seven. When our students leave they are prepared to become productive members of our society through the individual care and concern of the faculty/staff, active family involvement, and a loving relationship with God.

MISSION STATEMENT

Through the curriculum Maria Immacolata Catholic School conveys academic success, Catholic teachings, beliefs, and values to our students.

PHILOSOPHY

Maria Immacolata is a Catholic parochial school, established to impart Catholic Christian values and principles as well as secular knowledge to the children through the curriculum and the attitudes of all in the school.

Through these Christian values and the principles that are taught, students will be motivated to maintain self-discipline. Students will gain knowledge of God and His divine love. They will be helped in all activities to attain peace of soul and eternal salvation.

Students will be encouraged through a thorough teaching of all academic areas in accordance with Gospel values and in preparation for living in the twenty-first century.

It is the aim of the faculty and staff, aided by the students, to make Maria Immacolata Catholic School a place of growth to attain happiness, justice and fairness for all, and to gain knowledge of the presence of our loving God, who rules and guides us.

SCHOOL DESIGN

MICS is an Advanced SACS/CASI accredited parochial school serving students in PreK through grades 7. All teachers are degreed. All employees must be dedicated to professional and spiritual growth.

MICS strives to provide a balanced curriculum that develops the mind, body, and spirit. Technology is integrated across the curriculum. Extra-curricular offerings include band, Just Say No Club, 4-H club, and Beta Club.

The Student/Parent Handbook is subject to enforcement of all state regulations as issued in the Nonpublic School Commission Handbook and in diocesan regulations as published in the Handbook of Policies for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

GOVERNANCE

The Pastor is the head of the school and is assisted by the School Advisory Council. The principal is the administrator of the school who collaborates with the Pastor and the School Advisory Council.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

PRE-KINDERGARTEN

1. A child must be four years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year to be accepted to preschool.

2. A parent interview will be held with the administration.

KINDERGARTEN

1. A child must be five years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year to be accepted to kindergarten.

2. Admission is based on the Gesell Screening results.

3. A parent/student interview will be held with the administration.

FIRST GRADE

1. The child must be six years old on or before Sept. 30 of the current school year.

2. Admission will be based on academic and conduct records from the previous school.

3. The records will be evaluated by the school administrator.

4. A parent/student interview will be held with the administration.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

1. Baptismal Certificate (if the child is a Catholic)

2. Copy of Birth Certificate

3. Signed updated immunization record

4. Copy of Social Security Card

NEW STUDENTS - GRADES 2 – 7

1. All of the documents that are listed above must be presented.

2. Previous report cards and Standardized Test results must also be available.

3. A parents/student interview will be held with the principal.

ADMISSION POLICY

Maria Immacolata Catholic School admits students of any race, color, and national and ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, and activities generally available in the school. Order of admission is determined annually by the School Advisory Council.

STUDENT TERMINATION POLICY

Students and parents who accept the privilege of attending MICS accept the responsibility to respect and implement all school policies, rules, and regulations without exception. The MICS administrator reserves the right to refuse continued attendance for existing students whose parents do not conform to school policy, rules, and regulations. Any parent who makes unreasonable demands which can be viewed or interpreted as harassment on faculty, staff, and/or administration, on or off campus, will be required to withdraw his/her child from MICS.

REGISTRATION AND FEES

1. Tuition/fees are determined annually by the School Advisory Council.

2. A per-student registration fee is paid at the time of registration. This is a non-refundable fee and cannot be included in the student tuition loan.

3. A per-student administration/book fee covers the cost of all religion books, workbooks not included in the state textbook allotment, state testing fees, insurance, and the diocesan student assessment.

4. Non-Catholic families are assessed an additional fee.

5. The home parish of out-of-parish Catholic students will be assessed an annual fee per student.

6. MICS adheres to a prepaid tuition plan. All tuition/fees must be prepaid by the date designated by administration. Coastal Commerce Bank provides low-interest student tuition loans for families preferring paying monthly tuition. Loans that are thirty (30) days delinquent are canceled by MICS. In such instances, MICS expects immediate payment. Failure to comply will result in the child being dropped from the school enrollment.

7. School Advisory Council policy requires the following:

a. A child will not be allowed to take midyear exams or receive a report card at midyear if all outstanding bills have not been paid.

b. A child will not be readmitted for the spring semester if all outstanding bills have not been paid.

c. A child will not be allowed to take final exams and grades will be marked "I" for incomplete for the year for upper grade levels. Lower grade students will be graded for the last two weeks of school and final grades will be marked "I" for incomplete. No students will be allowed to participate in the end-of-the-year awards program if the school is owed money for any unpaid bills.

d. A child will not be accepted for the upcoming year if tuition and all outstanding bills have not been paid.

e. Parents are asked to contact the office in the event of hardship cases.

8. Tuition Refunds

Prior to the first day of school – 100% tuition refund

Between the first day of school and September 30 – 80% refund

Between October 1 and November 30 – 60% refund

Between December 1 and January 10 – 20% refund

After January 10 – no tuition refund

Parents who finance tuition are required to pay out any balance owed within thirty days of withdrawal.

9. Parents must call the school and the bank to report late payments.

10. Limited tuition assistance is available; therefore, please contact the principal for information.

11. Free/reduced lunch forms are available in the office.

12. All NSF checks will be assessed a $15.00 processing fee.

SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL

1. Nine members serve three year terms that rotate. Three of the members are appointed by the principal, three are appointed by the MI Church Council, and three are appointed by the Pastor.

2. A tenth School Advisory Council member is the CO-OP President who serves for a two year term.

3. Parents wishing to serve should contact the principal or the Pastor.

4. Parents wishing to submit an idea for consideration should send a written request to the Council President.

5. The Council acts only at official Council meetings and only as a body.

6. The Council follows the Handbook of Policies for Catholic Schools guidelines.

7. The principal is available for concerns regarding school matters.

8. Please do not contact Council members with school concerns. Contact the teacher first and then the principal if further help is needed. Council members cannot act on administrative matters.

DRESS CODE

NOTE: All regulation uniform parts are available at School Time, Jake’s, or Young Fashions. Uniform shoes are available at Felger’s Footwear as well as several other locations. Please make certain that the uniform parts conform to the MICS dress code. Any dress code violation will result in the parents being called immediately to correct the problem.

GIRLS’ UNIFORM

1. PreK - third grade girls may wear the two choices of plaid jumpers or the plaid skort with the Peter Pan collar blouse or the oxford blouse.

Second - third grade girls may also choose to wear the stitched pleat skirts.

Fourth- seventh grade girls may wear the stitched pleat skirt or the skort with the oxford blouse.

In grades PreK - third, the skirts may not be shorter than 3 inches above the knees when kneeling.

In grades fourth - seventh, the skirts may not be shorter than 2 inches above the knees when kneeling.

2. White oxford cloth shirts only; short or long sleeves; with the MICS emblem, tucked-in at all times. Sleeveless undershirts may be worn for fourth – seventh graders. They must be solid white and sleeveless!

3. MICS sweatshirts, solid navy or solid white sweatshirts may be worn; however, they must be worn over a regular uniform shirt. No emblems other than the MICS emblem or designs are allowed. Sweatshirts and sweaters may not be tied around the waist. No hooded sweatshirts or sweaters are allowed.

4. Light-weight jackets or sweaters must be solid navy or solid white. Again, no hooded jackets or sweaters are allowed.

5. Shoes: Black, brown, or navy lace-up dress shoes must be worn. No Sperry brand deck type shoes or alternate brand may be worn. Solid white tennis shoes may be worn on P.E. days. No high heels of any type are allowed. PreK students are required to wear their uniform buckle, Velcro, or slip-on shoes everyday. No lace-ups!

6. Solid white or navy socks must be worn. Ankle or tennis socks and socks with emblems or lace are not allowed. Girls may wear white or flesh tone stockings with socks on cold days.

7. Solid navy uniform type P.E. shorts must be worn under skirts and jumpers at all times. Biking shorts, umbro shorts, boxer shorts, leggings or thermal underwear are not permitted. Preschool and kindergarten students may also wear navy bloomers.

8. Small stud earrings are acceptable; however, dangling earrings may not be worn. Only one pair is allowed. No earrings will be worn in the ear cartilage.

9. A simple chain with a crucifix, Marian medal, or medal of a saint, or a scapular may be worn inside the blouse or shirt.

10. Navy, white, or uniform plaid hair ribbons only. Navy, white, gold, silver, or brown barrettes are acceptable.

11. Nail polish, sculptured nails, French nails, make-up, caps, or hats will not be allowed at school or at school-sponsored events. Fad hair cuts, hair coloring, or hair weaves are not allowed. Hair must be pulled back away from the eyes or bangs cut above the eyebrows.

BOYS’ UNIFORM

1. Boys must wear navy uniform pants or shorts fitted at the waist with belt loops. No jeans or casual pants/ shorts.

2. Belts must be black, brown, or navy blue. Belts must be worn. PreK boys must wear navy blue magnetic belts.

3. MICS light blue knit or oxford cloth uniform shirts; short or long sleeves. Shirts must have MICS emblems only; shirts must be tucked-in at all times. All undershirts worn under uniform shirts must be plain white - no emblems.

4. MICS sweatshirts, solid navy or solid white sweatshirts may be worn; however, they must be worn over a regular uniform shirt. No emblems other than the MICS emblem or designs are allowed. Sweatshirts and sweaters may not be tied around the waist. No hooded sweatshirts allowed.

5. Non-hooded light-weight jackets must be solid navy or solid white.

6. Heavy coats may be any type/color but cannot be worn inside of the building. Starter Jackets or team jackets displaying team logos or emblems are not allowed.

7. Shoes: Black, brown, or navy lace-up dress shoes must be worn. Solid white tennis shoes may be worn on P.E. days. PreK students are required to wear their uniform buckle, Velcro, or slip-on shoes. No lace-ups!

8. Solid white or navy socks must be worn. Ankle or tennis socks with emblems are not acceptable.

9. A simple chain with a crucifix, Marian medal, a medal of a saint, or a scapular may be worn inside the shirt.

10. Fad haircuts, pony tails or hair coloring are not allowed. Boy’s haircuts will not be longer than or touch the eyebrows, top of the ears, or their shirt collar.

ATTENDANCE

1. Students are expected to be present at school unless they are ill.

2. Absences:

a. Parents must send a written excuse explaining the reason for the absence on the day the student returns to school.

b. Please inform the teacher in the event of an extended absence.

(surgery or any other kind of emergency situation).

c. Students who are absent for more than three consecutive days are required to bring a doctor's excuse.

d. Kinds of excuses: Parents should contact the principal for determination if an expected absence will be considered as being excused or unexcused.

3. Unexcused absences – A student is absent for an unacceptable reason or simply as a matter of convenience, such as vacation, fishing and/or hunting trips, shopping, visiting relatives, etc. The student loses the right to make up class work and homework. When the student returns, any missed class work/homework will be provided to the student for studying purpose, for future tests and/or exams. Tests missed during unexcused absences will be counted as an F. If a test is scheduled on the day of his return from an unexcused absence, the student must take the test.

4. Excused absences - Any absence for an acceptable reason such as student illness, death or serious illness within the family, or other circumstances permitted at the principal's discretion. Work missed as a result of an excused absence must be made up. For a prolonged absence, the student is allowed up to 5 days for make-up work. Make-up work or tests missed during an excused absence must be made up within 5 days of returning to school or the grade becomes an F. A written excuse must accompany the student on the day of return or this will be counted as an unexcused absence.

5. School related absences - This is not counted as a day of absence; however, school work must be made up for all classes that were missed.

6. Partial day absence - If a student misses more than two class periods, this constitutes a one half (1/2) day absence. The two class attendance also applies as a minimum to get credit for one half (1/2) day attendance.

7. School work is available in the school office after 2:00 P.M. each day for excused absences. You must call the school office by 10:00 A.M. to request school work for an excused absence.

8. There is a possibility that a child will not be promoted to the next grade, or may be disqualified from receiving end of the year awards, if the child has been absent for 20 or more days. Cases involving prolonged illness with verification from a doctor will be considered and evaluated by the principal.

9. School begins at 7:50 A.M. ALL STUDENTS MUST BE ON CAMPUS BY THIS TIME OR A TARDY WILL BE RECORDED. After the morning bell has rung, parents must park in the parking lot and accompany their child/children to the school office to sign them in and obtain an admit slip. Students must obtain an admit slip from the office to be admitted to class.

11. Unless a doctor’s excuse is provided, or there was an illness in the immediate family earlier in the morning, all other tardys will be considered unexcused (ie. Car trouble, traffic problems, alarm clock issues, airport trips etc.)

10. For PreK and Kindergarten students, parents must first obtain an admit slip from the office and walk their child to class.

11. Grades 1-7: After the third unexcused tardy for the school year, the student will serve a detention for one day. The next two unexcused tardies will also merit a detention. On the sixth unexcused tardy, the student will serve an in-school suspension for one day. On the seventh unexcused tardy, the student will receive an at-home suspension. If there are any additional unexcused tardies, the student may be subject to an expulsion.

The policy for students in grades PreK and Kindergarten requires that after the third unexcused tardy for the school year, the student and the parent will be required to meet with the principal before being allowed into the classroom in lieu of detention

12. Parents should plan all doctor and dental visits and all vacations for after school hours or holidays.

13. The MICS principal may report excessive absences to the Terrebonne Parish School Board Child Welfare and Attendance Department.

VISITORS

1. Visitors are asked to always check in with the office; even mom-volunteers who come on a regular basis. A visitor pass sticker will be given to each person that signs in for that day.

2. Parents must check with the office for permission to go to the classrooms to talk to the teachers or the children.

3. Teachers will not release students to anyone, including parents, without permission form the office.

4. Visitors and volunteers are asked to refrain from wearing short, flip flops, sleeveless or low cut tops to school and Mass. Appropriate attire should be worn as a model for our students.

5. Safe Environment training is ongoing and mandatory through out the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The training is MANDATORY for any person over the age of 18 who volunteers to work with the students in any capacity. This includes anyone volunteering their time in the classroom, cafeteria, field trips, etc. The National Child Protection Office of the United States Conference of Bishops has mandated this training for anyone who works or volunteers in any parish or school.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

1. The school day begins at 7:50 A.M. and ends at 2:40 P.M.

Please use the preview channel on the cable TV to set your clock for school time. You may also consult the large clock on the wall outside the cafeteria for synchronized bell time.

2. Students may arrive for morning drop off at school as early as 7:15 A.M.

3. Please drop the students off at the sheltered area in front of the cafeteria. Pick-up is also at the sheltered area in front of the cafeteria. When allowing your children to depart from the vehicle, please put your shift in PARK for safety purposes.

4. Students will only be allowed to call for forgotten items until the 7:50 A.M. bell rings. Parents can bring forgotten items to the office and the student will be allowed to pick it up at recess, no sooner.

5. Please do not park in the parking lot to drop-off or pick-up students during morning arrival and/or afternoon pick-up.

6. Parents must line-up behind the buses in the afternoon. Please do not pull up until the buses have left and a duty teacher is visible. Parents are asked to park in the parking lot and walk on campus only when they are signing out their children. All other students must be picked up by using the car line. NO STUDENT CHECK OUTS AFTER 2 P.M.

7. Please follow the circle to re-enter Estate Drive. The shell area will be used only by the buses.

8. Each morning, please inform your child if he/she will be a bus rider, car rider, or will attend Child Care and send a note to the school if there is a change in the routine. Phone calls will be accepted if there is a change in the routine during the day, however, no changes can be called in after 1:30 P.M. Please reserve these changes for emergency situations only as frequent changes can be confusing to some children in addition to the possibility of the office not being able to interrupt class time for last minute changes.

9. If a child will be going home with another child or an adult, the school must have a written note from the parent. No Exceptions!

Last year the TPSB Transportation Dept. discouraged riding different buses due to overcrowding. These changes have to first be cleared by the parents with the TPSB Transportation Dept.

10. PreK and Kindergarten students without siblings are dismissed at 2:20 P.M.

PreK and Kindergarten students with siblings are dismissed at 2:40 P.M.

11. Emergency Closing of School will occur in certain extreme cases, usually due to inclement weather. The decision to do so will be made as early as possible and will be announced over all local television and radio stations. We will update our Maria Immacolata website with emergency information as well as the Edline home page. We will also be closed if public schools are closed due to inclement weather.

SCHOOL LUNCHES

1. Hot lunches are provided by the St. Bernadette School cafeteria daily.

2. All students may choose to buy a school lunch or bring a lunch from home.

3. Parents/students are required to make this choice during the first full week of school and again during the first week of school in January. Students cannot switch from eating a school lunch to bringing lunch from home until January.

4. Students who cannot drink milk must provide the office with a current doctor's note at the beginning of the school year. These students will then receive juice instead of milk.

5. Students who bring a lunch from home are allowed to bring bottled water or fruit juice. These drinks must be stored in the child’s lunch box until lunch time. Carbonated drinks and/or candy are not allowed during lunch time.

6. Students are not allowed to exchange or share lunches. If this occurs, all parties involved will be assigned to detention.

8. Please do not send a fast food in your child's lunch. This practice jeopardizes the school's federal funds for the lunch program.

9. Extra milk, juice, or water may be sold to students when available. Extra milk, water and juice are $.50 each. Students must bring money for extra’s in order to receive them. No one will be allowed to charge it to their account.

10. Free/reduced lunch forms are available in the office. Please fill out all of the information that is requested and return the form to school in a sealed envelope marked "OFFICE". All information is kept confidential.

11. Parents will be able to begin to come to school for lunch with child/children after October 1^st. Parents must call the at least one day in advance to let the school office know they will come to have lunch with child/children. We need to let St. Bernadette cafeteria know ahead of time. Please pay for the lunch in the office.

12. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to volunteer to serve lunch in the cafeteria. This is done on a rotating basis; therefore, please call the office so we can place your name on the list. You must be Safe Environment trained!

13. Parent/Grandparent Luncheons will be held monthly beginning with 7^th grade. You will receive an invitation approximately a week and a half before the date of your child's luncheon. RSVP’s must be turned in on time and lunches pre-paid in order to inform the cafeteria of the additional amount of food needed to prepare. Fast food lunches cannot be brought to school for these luncheons nor are carbonated drinks allowed. Last minutes acceptances may result in you having to wait until all reserved places have been served in case of shortages.

CHILDCARE

The following guidelines must be followed for child care.

1. All students who use this service must have a completed Child Care Form on file. Please keep this information as current as possible.
2. Child care is offered daily from 3:00 P.M. until 5:30 P.M. Please note that child care ends at 5:30 P.M. A late fee will be assessed for every minute after 5:30 P.M of $1.00 per minute.

Ex: If your child is picked up at 5:31P.M. you will be responsible for $1.00. If your child is picked up at 5:35 P.M., you will be responsible for $5.00.

3. Child care begins at 3:00 P.M. If your child is not picked up in the car line by 3:00 P.M. they will be sent to child care. If you come to pick your child up at 3:01 P.M. or any time after, your account will be charged the $5.00 child care fee for that day. No exceptions.
4. Child care payments are due in advance on the 25^th of each month and must be in the office by the 5^th of each month. Effective in the 09-10 school year, usage for each month will be estimated and this amount paid in full. Any over payments will be applied to the next month. Late payments will be assessed a late fee of $5.00 per day for each day payment is not made.
5. When paying your account, you may give your payment to the child care director directly or send it to the office via backpack to your child’s teacher.
6. If the account is not paid in a timely manner, child care services may be denied.
7. Snacks are provided daily. If your child prefers not to eat the snack provided he/she may bring a snack from home. No sunflower seeds, gum, or candy allowed.

It is our goal to provide a safe environment for your child/children. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

CATHOLICISM

1. Parents are the first teachers for their children by being positive Christian role models.

2. All students must participate in prayer time and Mass.

3. Only students who have celebrated the Sacrament of First Eucharist

receive Holy Communion.

4. All students are expected to follow the basic Gospel values.

5. Please inform the school of family illnesses, deaths, etc. for prayer time by sending a note to your homeroom teacher.

6. Catholic families are expected to attend Mass each weekend. School Mass does not replace Saturday/Sunday Mass attendance. Students are taught the meaning of the weekend readings in preparation for a meaningful participation in the celebration of weekend Mass. Please look for those sheets on Fridays.

7. Envelopes - Students are reminded that the use of envelopes are highly recommended. Please make every effort to remind your child of his weekly offertory giving. The offertory envelopes may be used on Friday's during church services or on Sunday when the parish celebrates church services.

Please emphasize to the students the importance of Church support by using their time, talent or treasures.

THE CURRICULUM

1. MICS curriculum follows the requirements of the LA State Department of

Education standards, in Bulletin 741 for non-public schools.

2. Curriculum decisions are made jointly by the faculty and the administration.

3. New textbooks and support materials are purchased routinely.

4. Technology is integrated across the curriculum.

5. MICS goes through an evaluation process every 5 years and is Advanced SACS/CASI accredited.

6. Teachers and the administration participate in professional development classes, workshops, and conferences throughout the year.

7. The Special Needs Committee (SNC) is composed of the principal, the student’s present teacher, the student’s former teacher (if possible), the parents, and any other person deemed necessary. This committee meets to discuss the student’s performance as needed. The parents are informed of specific recommendations. Reasonable efforts will be made by the classroom teacher in order to carry out specific accommodations and recommendations. MICS does not offer Special Education services but speech therapy teachers and adaptive P.E. teachers are furnished by the Terrebonne Parish School Board.

8. Human Sexuality is taught as part of the religious curriculum at MICS, according to the Diocese of Houma/Thibodaux guidelines.

HOMEWORK

1. Homework is meant to be the child’s responsibility and the child’s work.

2. As the child progresses through the grades the objective of home assignments progresses also.

A. At the primary level our main goal is to form a day-to-day habit of homework as routine, as a fact of daily life. The work is geared to reinforce what is being taught at school. It is critical that parents at this level know and be a part of what the child is learning and how he/she is learning it. At this level, homework time should be about 30-45 minutes for first and second graders. For third graders, the time should be about 45-60 minutes.

B. It is at the fourth grade level that the child should begin to make the transition to total independence in doing their homework. The maximum amount of time that it should be taking for homework at this level is 60-75 minutes. It is important that:

(1.) The child is limited to that time unless interest in continuing is genuinely his/hers.

(2.) The parent stops the study period after this time. If the work is not complete, then the child should face the natural and logical consequences to follow at school for incomplete homework. If homework is taking longer than the stated time, one of two things is happening: your child is not working in class (and thus his/her homework load is homework plus unfinished class work) or the child is not on-task during the time allotted for homework. By way of supervision, parents should look into how the homework time is being spent. If homework is taking your child longer than the stated time please send a note to the teacher. You can count on a response after the teacher investigates the problem.

C. Beyond fourth grade, a child should be deciding, on his/her own, how much time and in what way he/she should spend that time. Parents at this level are really doing their child an injustice if they are assuming responsibility for homework. Allow the child to benefit from good decision-making and wise use of time, or to suffer the logical consequences of avoiding personal responsibility. We feel this is our best means of enhancing self-discipline.

MICS GRADING SCALE FOR GRADES 1-7

A - Outstanding Achievement.....100-94

B - Above Average...................... 93-86

C - Average................................. 85-78

D - Below Average...................... 77-70

F - Unsatisfactory........................ 69-0

REPORTING GRADES

AND PROGRESS TO PARENTS

1. MICS Students in grades 1-7 are tested weekly on skills taught.

2. Packets are sent home on Tuesdays and should be returned signed on Wednesdays.

3. Each packet has a cover sheet with a weekly conduct grade, the number of papers that is contained in the packet, and a space for the teacher and/or parent comments.

4. Cover sheets must be signed by parents and returned on Wednesdays.

Detention begins on Thursday until the sheet is returned.

5. Progress Reports are no longer sent home. Because of the valuable tool that Edline has become parents can check their child’s grade daily for grades 1-7.

6. Report card dates will appear on the monthly calendars posted on Edline. The envelope in which it goes home should be signed and returned to the school the next day. Kindergarten report cards are due back to school the next day, signed by a parent or guardian. If a report card is kept to show a parent who is out of town, please send a note to the teacher informing her of the delay.

7. Lost or damaged report cards cost $5 to replace.

8. Early Childhood students are assessed once each semester. This is done by using a non-graded checklist and a portfolio assessment of progress.

9. Please contact the teacher if there are any questions or concerns.

CONFERENCES

1. During Open House activities, the teachers explain classroom procedures. They also discuss grading, homework, answer parents’ questions, and other important topics that pertain to their class. This meeting is strongly encouraged for our parents to insure a successful year.

2. Parent-Pupil-Teacher Conferences are scheduled annually in January. Teachers will plan for these conferences so that parents and students can be effectively informed about student progress. We ask that parents come to the conferences with questions and concerns to be discussed with the teacher.

3. Parents are encouraged to contact teachers at any point in the school year to discuss their child’s progress. Appointments should be made by sending a written request to the teacher.

EXAMS AND AVERAGES

1. Students in grades 6 and 7 take exams in each subject in each quarter.

Grade 5 students take one exam each nine weeks in alternating subjects.

2. In computing nine weeks averages, fractions of less than .55 will be

rounded off to the lower letter grade; fractions of .55 or above will be

rounded off to the higher letter grade.

3. At the end of the year, the grades for all four nine weeks’ periods are averaged to determine the final grade for each subject.

4. A student who appears to willfully fail the work of the fourth nine weeks

may be failed for the year regardless of the previous grades received.

This action must have the approval of the principal.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

1. Students in grades 1-3 will be retained if they fail either Reading or Math.

2. Students in grades 4-7 will be retained if they fail two (2) major subjects.

3. Major subjects in grades 4-7 are Religion, Reading, Math, English, Social

Studies, and Science. Minor subjects are Spelling, Writing, Health and PE

and Music/Art.

4. PreK students will participate in the Gesell Screening at the end of the school year to determine if they are developmentally ready for kindergarten.

5. Kindergarten promotion to 1st grade will depend upon the achievement and performance level of the student as determined by a committee consisting of the Kindergarten teacher, 1st grade teacher, and the principal.

6. In extenuating circumstances, a student with failing grades may be advanced to the next grade level by administrative placement. This

placement must be clearly marked on the report card and the permanent file.

7. Parental requested or teacher requested retention of a student who has

passing grades is decided by the parents, the teacher, and the principal.

8. The school reserves the right to deny registration for a child for the following

year if it is determined by the school that a child's needs cannot be justly served with the parent's choice of placement from number 7 above.

RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC AND CONDUCT

ACHIEVEMENT

Academic excellence is recognized each nine weeks in grades 1-7 in four ways:

1. "A" Honor Roll - all A's in academics; A or B in conduct.

2. "A-B" Honor Roll - a combination of A's and B's in academics; A or B in

conduct.

3. "A" Honor Conduct - all students who earn an A in conduct regardless of

other grades on report card each nine weeks. Students in grades 4-7 must have A's in conduct from all of the teachers in order to merit this award.

4. Up in Two and Down in None - recognition of extra effort to improve grades

in at least two subjects without going down to a lower grade in any academic subjects. Improvement in band and conduct count positively but not negatively. Please note – a child cannot have a “C” or lower in conduct in order to be recognized for any honor roll.

*Certificates of recognition are awarded and lists are sent to the newspaper for public recognition.

DISCIPLINE PLAN

Maria Immacolata Catholic School affirms that each person is a significant and capable gift from God. We promote a positive environment of academic and spiritual growth. We empower each person with the skills to act respectfully and responsibly in a Christian manner.

In order to promote academic excellence and spiritual growth we, the MICS community, establish these policies and expectations for all:

1. Be courteous

2. Be prepared

3. Treat others as you wish to be treated

4. Do your best at all times

5. Uphold a safe learning environment

6. All who come here will learn

Students at MICS will practice the above policies and expectations. The ideal of discipline within all Catholic schools, especially MICS, is to help students move from externally imposed discipline to self-discipline to discipleship. Disciplinary action taken as a result of student misconduct is intended to help students develop self-discipline and internalize appropriate behavior skills. It also serves to create and maintain a positive, Christian atmosphere conducive to learning.

The Maria Immacolata Catholic School discipline plan is designed to be positive, proactive, and progressive in nature and will help provide for the welfare and safety of all. All attempts will be made by the classroom teacher to correct misconduct. In unacceptable behavior continues more serious interventions outlined in this plan will be utilized as listed below.

General Rules

1. Classroom and classroom-related behavior is the teacher’s responsibility. As much as possible, the teacher will discipline the student. A student is referred to principal when it is judged necessary because of the seriousness of the circumstances.

2. Directions given to a student by staff members including office personnel, teacher’s aides, cafeteria workers, custodial workers, duty teachers, or other supervising adults must be followed with courtesy and obedience.

3. In cases of minor offenses, the teacher will discipline the student.

Minor infractions can result in loss of privileges, extra work, phone call to parent, or other penalties deemed necessary by the teacher as outlined in the classroom policies.

4. When repeated and continuous efforts on the part of the principal, teachers/faculty member fail to motivate a student toward positive conduct results, more serous action will be taken.

Violations

Detention may be issued by the principal for the following violations:

· Accumulation of three (3) dress code/hair violations

· Accumulation of three (3) unexcused tardies

· Fighting, encouraging, or instigating a fight

· Being disrespectful to faculty, staff, or school visitors

· Inappropriate language (profanity), pictures, writing, actions or gestures

· Harassing, teasing, bullying with cruel remarks, actions, or exclusions

· Pushing, hitting, or tripping

· Leaving the classroom or school grounds without permission

· Inappropriate/unacceptable use of technology (internet, computer, other resources)

Any other behavior deemed inappropriate by the principal, faculty, or staff.

Before School Detention

Before school detention will be held on Friday mornings from 7:15 A.M. to 7:45 A.M. in the Library. A parent must bring their child to the Library in order to sign-in.

Major Violations

· Any act of disrespect, injury to others, threats (verbal or otherwise) to students, faculty/staff, or visitors

· Defacing/destroying school property. (Students maybe required to pay for damage or replacement.)

· Vandalism or destruction of school or other individual’s property

· Carrying or possessing a weapon or instrument which could cause bodily harm

· Possession or use of any product of alcohol, tobacco, or controlled substances (drugs)

· Leaving school grounds without permission

· Bringing to school cell phones, electronic media devices (iPods, etc) laser lights or similar devises

· Plagiarism, stealing, cheating, or lying

· Behavior occurring off school property or non-school related functions which reflect negatively on the school’s image, philosophy or mission

· Any other behavior deemed inappropriate by the principal, faculty or staff.

Suspension-Action of suspension is reserved for the principal. The parents will be immediately notified of the suspension. The student will receive an “F” for all tests that are missed. No suspension will last longer than three days.

1. In-school suspension- If a student receives an in-school suspension, he/she will be expected to take his/her books to a designated room and study and keep up with the class material.

2. At home suspension-The student will be expected to take his or her books home to study and keep up with the class material. A conference with the parent and the teacher must be held with the principal before the student can return to school.

3. Bus suspension-Students are to observe proper behavior on the school bus and abide by all school bus rules and regulations. If a student does not behave properly on the school bus, he/she may receive a bus suspension. In this case the parents will have to furnish transportation to and from school for the duration of the suspension. A parent conference must be held with the principal before the student can resume normal bus activities.

Expulsion- Expulsion takes place only at the discretion of the principal in the extreme cases where the student habitually violates school rules/policies or the behavior is detrimental to the safety of others and/or the reputation of the school.

PARENT –SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

NEW POLICY: EFFECTIVE 2009

1. The principal, faculty, and staff welcome parental questions and concerns.

Please do not hesitate to call the school.

2. All letters, notes, etc. coming in or going out from school from faculty or staff must have the principal’s initials or signature. Please notify the principal when the principal’s initials or signature are not on the letters, etc.
3. Parents are encouraged to contact the teachers when they wish to discuss their child’s progress. This should be done in the form of a written request to the teacher. The teacher is responsible for forwarding the request or information to the principal. In this way, the principal is aware of the request for a meeting. After the request is initialed by the principal, the teacher will then contact the parent with the date and time. Please notify the principal when the principal’s initials or signature are not on the letters, etc.
4. If parents want to meet with the principal concerning school matters, they will call the office to schedule an appointment. The principal will return the call as soon as possible that same day.
5. Parents are expected to inform the principal and classroom teachers concerning students having physical, emotional, or mental conditions that require special considerations/accommodations. In order to keep emergency information current, parents are required to notify the school office, in writing, of any change of address, telephone, cell numbers, or change of parental job information. If parents become divorced and custody of the child is part of the decree, a copy of the court decree must be secured as part of the student’s file. This information should be an official document signed by a judge.

6. Emergency Closing of School will occur in certain extreme cases, usually due to inclement weather. The decision to do so will be made as early as possible and will be announced over all local television and radio stations. We will update our Maria Immacolata website with emergency information as well as the Edline home page. We will also be closed if public schools are closed due to inclement weather.

FIELD TRIPS

1. Field Trips are permitted if they relate to a sound educational value.

2. All Field Trips must be organized so that students will have on file a specific form signed by the parent granting parental permission for the Field Trip. Students will not go on the Field Trip without a properly signed form.

3. All Field Trips will be taken by bus.

PARTY/HOLIDAY GUIDELINES

Birthdays

1. Please coordinate an agreeable date for the celebration with the teacher.

2. Cupcakes or cookies and small containers of drinks are recommended. Please do not bring cakes that must be cut.

3. Refreshments will be served after 2:00 P.M. Food may be brought to the office earlier in the day for those parents not staying to participate or not Safe Environment trained.

4. Gifts, balloon bouquets, etc are not allowed.

5. Invitations to parties at home must include all girls or all boys in the class or the entire class if the invitations are given at school.

Thanksgiving-Preschool and Kindergarten classes have a traditional feast before the holiday begins. The details will be sent home by the teacher. Traditionally, MICS celebrates Grandparents Day on the last day before the Thanksgiving break. This day begins with Mass, and the grandparents can visit classrooms, and then a picnic lunch is enjoyed by all.

Christmas

1. The last day of school before the Christmas holiday begins is a full day with a regular lunch schedule.

2. The room mothers will coordinate the refreshments for each class.

3. Students are not allowed to exchange gifts on the school premises.

Valentines Day

All classes can exchange Valentine cards in class if the teacher approves.

Mardi Gras

There will be a Mardi Gras parade hosted by our Pre K and Kindergarten classes. All students are allowed to attend.

Easter

1. Preschool and Kindergarten may have an Easter egg hunt. Since we are in the season of Lent, no parties swill be held.

CO-OP BOARD

1. The MICS CO-OP, or PTC, is a means of having valuable family/school participation that focuses on the mission of the school.

2. The furthering of the school's Mission can grow best with excellent attendance and full participation by all families of MICS.

3. There will be at least two meetings per year, usually on the first Tuesday of a month.

4. At times, a ballot may be sent home so all families can have a voice not only those in attendance at meetings.

5. The officers are elected annually with the president serving a two-year term on the MICS School Advisory Council.

6. Parents wishing to serve as officers or who would like to submit ideas or suggest speakers for the meetings should contact the principal.

7. There is an annual family fee assessed for CO-OP functions.

8. Dues are used to pay for speakers and refreshments for the meetings. Fifty dollars is allocated to each teacher to be used for purchases for the classrooms. The remainder of the funds is used for the benefit of the children.

STEWARDSHIP

1. The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux embraces the concept of stewardship as the total commitment of self to Christ. This is done through the sharing of time, talent, and treasure.