OUR MISSION

St. Matthias School exists to establish a strong foundation based on the teachings of the Catholic Church and to prepare students to become knowledgeable and competent learners.

Date 12/16/02

OUR BELIEFS

v     St. Matthias School collaborates with parents in their primary responsibility of forming their children in the Catholic faith.  Students grow in their faith by learning and experiencing Catholic teachings and traditions.

 

v     St. Matthias School’s academic program meets or surpasses state standards, and supports students in reaching their academic and creative potential.

 

v     St. Matthias School students are guided by a dedicated staff that demonstrate educational excellence and serve as positive role models in the Catholic faith.

 

v     St. Matthias School is characterized by its sense of belonging, which is promoted by parents, staff and students

 

Date 12/16/02

 

 

RIGHT TO A CATHOLIC EDUCATION (5110.0) 9/02

St. Matthias School admits students of any race, color, gender or ethnicity to all its rights, privileges, programs, and activities.  In addition the school will not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, or ethnicity in the administration of its educational programs and extra curricular activities. Preference is given to members of Catholic parishes.  Others are welcome on a space available basis at the discretion of the pastor and/or principal.

 

REGISTRATION

Grades K-8:  All incoming students will be enrolled on a conditional basis, i.e. the student’s successful adaptation to the St. Matthias learning environment.  If this is not accomplished within the first nine weeks, the family will be requested to make other accommodations for the child.

 

Currently enrolled students will have the opportunity to re-enroll in May for the following year.

A place for students will automatically be held for each succeeding grade upon receipt of a nonrefundable registration fee due by May 15.  The registration fee will be applied to the instructional fee for the upcoming school year.

Parents/Guardians are responsible for notifying the office of changes in address, phone number, or custodial status.  The custodial parent is required to provide to the principal a certified copy of any court order or decree pertaining to child.

 

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AREAS

The location of the residence of the student’s legal guardian is used to determine the assigned high school (as defined by specific street address) St. Matthias students are assigned to St. Francis DeSales High School.  Boys may also attend St. Charles High School.

 

TUITION AND INSTRUCTIONAL FEE INFORMATION

Tuition and instructional fees are determined annually by the School Advisory Board in conjunction with the Finance Committee and approved by the Pastor of the parish in early spring.   Specific amounts will be published in the end of the year parent letter and in the school packets.

 

The Diocesan Tuition Assistance Fund is a program that provides tuition assistance to eligible families.  The St. Matthias School office will notify families receiving assistance.  Request forms for assistance   available in early spring. If this applies to you, please check with the Principal for these important dates.  Families should not expect parish aid if they have not requested aid from the diocesan office first.

 

OUTSTANDING TUITION POLICY

According to Diocesan Policy 3240.1:  A Catholic school will not accept a student whose financial obligations to another Catholic school have not been met.

 

Unpaid balances not paid in full by May 15 will warrant a child’s removal from the school enrollment roster and the final report card will be withheld.  A student on the St. Matthias waiting list will then be given that vacancy.  Please contact the principal or pastor of St. Matthias School if payments cannot be made due to unemployment, illness or other difficult family situations.  The school is willing to make alternate financial arrangements. 

 

TUITION REFUND POLICY

Enrollment for any part of a quarter is considered as enrollment for the entire quarter.  Tuition paid beyond said quarter will be refunded upon request.

SUPPLIES

Students are given a list of needed supplies that parents are expected to provide.  Copies are sent home at the end of the school year and are available again outside the school office two weeks before school starts.

 

PRINCIPAL’S OPEN DOOR POLICY

The Principal has an open door policy.  Students are permitted to come to the office to discuss concerns as well as ask questions.  The student must get permission from the teacher to leave the class.  The policy is extended to parents as well.  However, it is recommended that parents having urgent business make an appointment to insure adequate for discussion.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

Written communications are sent home at the end of each week or prior to an upcoming event.  Such communications are sent with the oldest child of the family.   Please check with your child and make sure you receive notices and information sent by the school.  Once the teacher hands out the communications, it is the responsibility of the parent to check and see that the information is received.  Any suggestions for the weekly newsletter should be sent to the school office by Wednesday.

 

Families and school staff are encouraged to communicate on a regular basis.  The recommend way to do this is through written communication, scheduled meetings, or by telephone conversations during school hours.  Please call the school office to schedule appointments.  Spontaneous visits to the classroom are not permitted because they interrupt the educational process.  Parents/Guardians should discuss concerns with the teacher first.  If the concern is not settled to their satisfaction, they should discuss the problem with the principal.  If the concern is not resolved, then the pastor may be consulted.

 

VISITORS

All visitors must report to the school office and sign in after entering the building using the church vestibule doors.  All other doors are locked.  Visitors are not permitted to interrupt a class unless accompanied by the principal or designated staff member..

 

 

RELIGION PROGRAMS/ SACRAMENTS

An important part of education at St. Matthias School is the religion program.  With the assistance of the teacher, pastor, and others capable in this field, children prepare the Liturgy in which they will take an active part.  There are other times during the year when the children and teachers celebrate the Sacraments and other aspects of the Church as a total community.  It is the parents’/ guardians’ responsibility to make sure a child receives the Sacraments frequently and attends Sunday Mass on a regular basis. 

The school assists the parents by providing instruction for the reception of the following Sacraments:

 

ž          Holy Eucharist - Grade 2

ž          First Penance - Grade 4

ž          Confirmation - Grade 8

Special meetings are held throughout the year for parents to better inform them about the particular sacrament and to help them with final preparation.

 

HOMEWORK AND SUGGESTED STUDY TIME

 

Grades	Minutes per day
K, 1 and 2	20-30
3 and 4	45
5 and 6	60
7 and 8	90

 

This is a suggested guideline.  Should your study time go beyond this, it is recommended that you discuss the situation with the teacher, since this could mean that the classroom work has not been completed.

At the discretion of the teacher, parents or guardians will be contacted if assignments are missed.  Students with missing assignments may be required to make up work during recess time, after school, or at the discretion of the teacher.

Teachers are required to instruct students in the opportunities to meet diocesan course of study objectives and provide intervention when needed.

 

 

 

SCHOOL NURSE

The school nurse is at St. Matthias one day a week.  Her duties include updating school health records, eye screening, auditory testing, weight and height records and a scoliosis check.  Testing is done on a yearly basis.  Parents should notify the school nurse regarding updated shot records.

 

DISPENSING MEDICATION

A student using prescribed medication during school hours must have on file a signed medical authorization form from the parent or guardian, and a properly completed physician’s statement.  The authorization must include the following:

 

1.                   Written permission from the parent(s) or guardian(s).

2.                   A physician’s verification of the necessity for the medication; name of medication; dosage; times or intervals at which it is to be taken; duration; and possible side effects.

3.                   Medication must be in original containers and have affixed label including student’s name.

4.                   Accurate records of the medication given must be kept in the student file.

5.                   A statement releasing and holding school personnel harmless from any and all liability for damages or injury resulting directly or indirectly from the presence of the medication in the school or its use by the student.

 

 

 

The possession or use of non-prescription, over-the-counter medication during school hours is discouraged.  Administration of these medications (i.e., throat lozenges, acetaminophen drugs, such as Tylenol and Advil) should be determined on the local school level, if the school judges that adequate personnel are available, and as long as appropriate permission forms are on file.  The school will not administer aspirin to students because of its connection to Reye’s Syndrome.

 

Employees of the schools of the diocese, and public school employees (e.g. school nurse) working in schools are permitted to administer prescribed medication to a student when conditions exist, which in the judgment of the employee, merit-giving assistance to the student (e.g., immaturity of the student, nature of the medication).  Employees of the schools of the diocese and public school employees working in schools of the diocese are not required to administer medication to students.

 

At the discretion of the principal, the school may require that medication be kept by school personnel until the student needs to use it.

 

 

 

 

PHONE CALLS

Children may not use the school phone without permission of a teacher, secretary or principal.  Students will, however, be asked to call home by a teacher in the event a form was sent home to be signed and not returned.  This call is made from the Principal's office.

 

SCHOOL HOURS

All students, except afternoon kindergarten, are expected to be at school by 7:50 AM.  The Principal or another staff member will provide supervision at 7:30 AM.  On rainy or bad weather days, students are to report directly to the gym.  Students will be considered late if they arrive after the 7:55 AM bell.

Morning kindergarten: Children will be dismissed at 10:45 am and can meet their rides at the front entrance of the building.

Afternoon kindergarten: Children are to meet their teacher at the front entrance of school at 11:20 AM.

 

Dismissal procedure: Students are dismissed on the following schedule:

ž          2:10 bus students

ž          2:13 walkers

ž          2:15 car riders

 

When dropping off or picking up your child, we ask that drivers follow the rules explained at the beginning of the school year.  Students are to cross streets only at crosswalks where patrols are stationed.  No one is to walk across DeSales' property unless permission is given.

 

 

BIKE RIDERS

St. Matthias School is not responsible for bikes parked on the property during the school day.  All bike riders must walk their bikes to the bike rack.  Bike riders must lock their bikes on the bike rack.  They are not permitted to ride their bikes on the playground before, during, or immediately after school because of school traffic.  Failure to follow all the bike rules will cause a student's bike privileges to be suspended.

 

ABSENCES AND ILLNESS

If a student is going to be absent, the parent or guardian is required to notify the school before 8:30 AM and give the reason for the absence.  Parents who do not call in will be contacted through the school office to check the reason for the absence.

Upon returning to school after an absence, a student must present a note stating the reason for absence, the date(s) of absence, and the signature of parent or guardian.

 

EARLY DISMISSAL

If a student must leave before the end of the school day, a written request must clearly state the reason and the time for early dismissal and who will pick the child up from school.  The student and the parent or authorized adult will meet at the school office where the child will check out.  A student will be considered truant from school if they leave the building through any other manner.  The adult is required to sign the sign-out book when picking up the student.

MAKE-UP WORK

Students who are absent from school are expected to make up work missed during the absence period.  If a student is absent one day, one day is given for the make-up work to be completed.  If absent three days, three days are permitted for the work to be completed.  This does not apply to students who are absent the day before a long-term assignment is due because they had ample time to complete the assignment. 

 

If you need your child’s homework when they are ill, please call the school office and leave a message before 11:00 AM.  Assignments will be ready at 2:15 PM for pick up or they may be sent home with a sibling or friend.

TARDINESS

A student who arrives after the 7:55 AM bell is considered tardy.  The child must report to the office for an admission slip to class.  The number of times tardy will be reported on the report card.  Habitual tardiness (three or more times) will be discussed with parents.  If the parents do not correct the difficulty, the child will be given a demerit.  Parents/Guardians "running late" will be recorded as an unexcused tardy.

 

VACATIONS

The school cannot run its educational system around the vacation times of individual families.  The family must assume total responsibility for the educational needs of students.  The student is responsible for all work taught during the absence period, including classroom assignments.  All work and assignments must be completed within one week after returning from vacation.  Parents and students must realize that it will be impossible to duplicate much of the work that is missed.

PROMOTIONS AND RETENTIONS

Promotions in the elementary schools will be based on consideration of the welfare of the student.  Students will be placed where they can work to the best of their ability.  Retention is recommended only when a student has shown that he or she is not emotionally and or academically prepared for the next grade.  Retention is considered only if it will benefit the student.  If a student in grade 6, 7 or 8 fails two or more subjects, it is advised that the student enroll in another school.

Parents are required to attend a parent/teacher conference at the end of the first quarter to receive their child’s progress report.  Spring conferences are at the parent and or teachers request.  Teachers and parents are encouraged to schedule conferences on a needed basis.

 

SPECIAL SCHOOL EVENTS

Occasionally activities such as musicals or dramas are presented by the students under the direction of teachers, staff or volunteers.  All students must participate in required programs, and students’ participation and quality of performance will be reflected in their academic grade.

 

FIELD TRIPS

During the course of the school year, students and their teachers may plan an educational field trip.  Permission forms for trips must be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the school by the designated date.  Permission over the phone will not be accepted and the student will spend the day at school where suitable class work will be provided, if the permission form has not been signed.  All school staff and volunteers must have on file a current Bureau of Criminal Investigation criminal background check and attend - Protecting God’s Children sexual abuse awareness and prevention workshop before they can accompany the school children on any activity.

 

 

CRISIS PLAN

In the event of a special emergency, evacuation and/or lockdown procedures are available in the principal’s office. Our primary evacuation site is DeSales High School Little Theater

 

FIRE AND TORNADO EVACUATION AND EMERGENCY

Drills are conducted on a regular basis.  Students are instructed by their teachers on appropriate behavior and correct procedures to follow.  They are expected to respond to directions quickly, quietly, and safely.

 

 

DISCIPLINE

The basis of all discipline is respect.  Students who infringe upon the rights of others, neglect their responsibilities, or violate rules will be held accountable.  If appropriate methods of behavior correction are not successful, the student will be referred to the principal.

 

 

CODE OF CONDUCT

This system is designed to make students accountable for their behavior and academics. Demerit/Academic Warnings will be given to a student at the time of the incident and must be signed by a parent/ guardian and returned to the principal’s office the next school day.  After five conduct demerits, a student is issued a detention to be served at a designated time and day.

 

SAMPLE CONDUCT DEMERIT STUDENT NAME _______________  Date ______ STAFF INITIALS  ____________ CONDUCT CODES: ______1. Disruption of class ______2. Inappropriate behavior ______5. Failure to observe school rules ______6. Failure to observe classroom rules ______7. Dress code violation ______8. Other – Specify COMMENTS: Parent/Guardian Signature ________________

SAMPLE ACADEMIC WARNING STUDENT NAME _______________  Date ______ STAFF INITIALS  ____________     ______1. Failure to complete homework ______2. Failure to complete classwork Specify___________________________     COMMENTS: Parent/Guardian Signature ________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Faculty and staff may also use the Diocesan Life Skills form as a tool of notification to parents when their child is not meeting academic and behavior expectations.

 

 

 

 

 

DETENTION POLICY (per semester)

Detentions will be served with the Principal or staff member after school until 3:00 PM unless another time is designated.  When a demerit and or academic warning is issued it must be signed by parent/guardian and returned to school the following morning.  A second detention will be issued for failure to serve an assigned detention.  Detentions will be placed in a student‘s file and removed at the end of the eighth grade year.

 

·        5 demerits  =  First Detention      -     Detention is served on designated day and time

·        10 demerits = Second Detention  -    Conference with parent/guardian, pastor, principal,  and/or teacher

·        15 demerits = Third Detention    -      Student is given a one day at home suspension

·        20 demerits = Fourth Detention  -      Student is asked to withdraw from school

 

BEHAVIOR OFF CAMPUS

The Diocese of Columbus has a concern with conduct by students at school or away from school that may bring discredit to the name of the school or the reputation of the student body.  Conduct that is inappropriate to Christian moral standards, violation of the law, threatening, harmful or offensive to other students or staff may subject a student to discipline at the sole discretion of the pastor and principal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Every student should respect the desks of the teacher and classmates and materials held on or within them.  Students are responsible for the care of all books, supplies, and furniture provided by St. Matthias School.  Students who damage or deface school property or equipment will be required to pay for all damaged items.  They will be responsible for replacing the items to St. Matthias School.

 

CHEATING

If a student is found guilty of cheating, the teacher will collect the student's paper and notify the parent/ guardian and the principal, for immediate action to be taken.  Whether a student gives or receives information during a test or assignment, the offense is the same.

 

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

According to Diocesan Policy 5140.12, any student in possession of any kind of narcotic or suspicious substance at school will have the suspicious substance confiscated and the parent or guardian will be contacted immediately.  The parent/guardian, teacher, and principal will then decide what actions to take.

 

 

SUSPENSION (IN-SCHOOL AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL) (Diocesan Policy 5114.0)

Suspension from a Catholic school is always a serious matter and is administered only when circumstances warrant.  As soon as it becomes evident that the suspension of a particular student is appropriate, the student's parents will be notified and a conference set up to discuss the matter and its consequences.  Written record of the suspension will be kept on file for the duration of the student's enrollment in St. Matthias School.  Parents have the right to petition if they consider the expulsion unjust.

DUE PROCESS

To be fair, when an incident occurs between students, a staff member will provide an opportunity for the students to discuss the incident as soon as possible.  After each student presents his/her side of the story, the staff member will determine how to handle the situation.

 

EXPULSION FROM SCHOOL

Expulsion may take place for conduct "...which disrupts the academic atmosphere of the school, endangers fellow students, teachers, or school officials, damages property, or flagrantly or repeatedly violates regulations or policies of the Diocese or St. Matthias School." (Diocesan Policy 5114.0) The Principal has the right to make exceptions to disciplinary actions because of mitigating circumstances.  The principal and pastor have the final say in all disciplinary situations.

THREATS TO WELFARE AND SAFETY

No student will use, possess, handle, transmit or conceal any object that is or can be considered a dangerous weapon or instrument of violence.  Objects which are explosive or incendiary in nature, or any object reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety or security of any person, are prohibited on school premises, and at school related functions. (Diocesan Policy 5140.1 1)

If a student is found to be in violation of Policy 5140.1 1, any or all of the disciplinary actions listed below may be imposed by the administration:

ž          detention

ž          approved school/community service

ž          in-school suspension

 

 

ž          referral to Juvenile Court or law enforcement agency

ž          suspension from school

ž          expulsion from school following suspension

 

UNACCEPTABLE LANGUAGE

Should a child be heard using obscene and/or profane language, the exact words will be recorded in writing and signed by the student.  This document will be sent to the parent/guardian and contact will be made to discuss the situation.

 

BUS CONDUCT

The following rules and regulations apply to ALL students riding school buses.

 

1.       The bus driver represents an extension of the authority of the school, and is in complete charge of the bus.  The bus driver may assign seats to those students, as the driver deems necessary.  Students are required to comply with the seat assignment.

2.       Consumption of food, gum, candy beverage, etc. is strictly forbidden.

3.       Orderly conduct must be maintained at all times.

4.       Students must remain seated at all times.

5.       A student’s bus riding privileges may be suspended for a period of up to five (5) days and/or detention may be issued for any of the following reasons:

A.      Failure to remain seated at all times.

B.      Refusing to obey the bus driver or conduct that endangers the safety of the driver or the passengers.

C.      Obscene or profane language or gestures.

D.      Fighting or vandalism.

E.      Smoking, eating, throwing objects, and littering.

F.      Hanging out the window.

G.     Disobeying safety rules when entering and exiting the bus.

H.      Transporting weapons.

I.         Excessive tardiness to the bus stop.

 

ATHLETICS

Athletics are offered by the parish in Grades 4 - 8. Athletics should be an educational experience, aimed at providing a healthful, enjoyable atmosphere conducive to the growth and development of every participant.  St. Matthias Parish through St. Matthias Athletic Club and the Athletic Director and Commissioners sponsor the sports program.  If there are any questions or concerns about athletics please contact the coach, followed by the athletic director and pastor. Students who are not meeting the academic or behavior standards may become ineligible to participate in athletics and or cheerleading.  Refer to the Ineligibility Policy. 

FALL:  Soccer, Football, Volleyball, Cheerleading

WINTER:   Basketball, Cheerleading

SPRING:  Softball, Baseball, Track

 

LUNCHTIME

The option of a hot lunch is available to students every day, unless otherwise informed of changes in the schedule by the cafeteria manager.  A menu envelope will be sent home with each student every month so that lunch selections can be made for the following month.  Milk is included in the cost of the hot lunch.  Prepayment for all selections is required when students return the envelope to school. 

Students have one-half hour for lunch and are not permitted to leave the school grounds.  No food may be taken out of the lunchroom to eat on the playground or in the classroom.  Students are responsible for cleaning up after themselves at their table and for following all of the appropriate codes of conduct set by St. Matthias School.

If a student forgets to bring a lunch to school, the cafeteria manager will provide the child with peanut butter crackers.  If a parent/guardian wishes to bring a lunch to school for the child, it is to be brought to the school office for the child to pick up on the way to the lunchroom.

Two percent white or chocolate milk is available for the students to purchase every day.  On days that a hot lunch is not served, students may bring money to purchase milk.  Payment for milk can be made by the month, half year or full year.  Checks should be made payable to St. Matthias School and sent in an envelope clearly marked “milk money”.  Please do not include milk money with tuition payments because the payments are posted to separate accounts.

 

WELLNESS POLICY

St. Matthias School recognizes that it is essential to educate the whole child, spiritually, academically, physically, socially and emotionally.  St. Matthias School aids the emphasis on total wellness by embracing the reverence for life, self respect, and respect for others. Wellness education must be multi dimensional and encompass all areas in order to promote ultimate health.

 

 

FRUIT BREAK

At the teacher’s discretion, students are permitted to have a midmorning snack: fruits, vegetables, unsweetened cereals, fun fruits, fruit roll-ups, bagels, pretzels, cheese, or assorted varieties of crackers.  No junk food items, such as potato chips, hostess cakes, candy, pop tarts, or chocolate covered granola bars are permitted.  Anything that requires peeling or the use of a spoon is prohibited.

 

POP POLICY

Students are not permitted to bring pop or any other type of carbonated beverage to school or purchase at school during school hours.

 

BIRTHDAYS

Students are permitted to bring a snack to share with the entire class for their birthday.   Home baked items should be individually wrapped for each student.  Cupcakes are strongly discouraged.  With teacher approval, students are permitted to bring party invitations to school to pass out, but only if they include the entire class or everyone of the same gender   If only a few children are invited to the party then they should be mailed out individually.

 

PLAYGROUND

Following lunch, a period for playtime is provided for the children.  To insure the safety and well being of the children during recess, the following regulations will be enforced:

 

ž          Students are to play in the designated class areas on the playground.

ž          Games are to be played by established rules.

ž          Snowballs, water balloons, etc. and games that endanger the health and well being of students are forbidden.

ž          Students may not play off the blacktop area without permission.

ž          All injuries and problems must be reported to the Principal and/or the playground parent on duty.

ž          Children are expected to obey adults who are on duty.

ž          Children are expected to go outside for recess and to dress appropriately for weather conditions.

ž          Use of inappropriate or abusive language is forbidden.

ž          When the bell rings signaling the end of recess, the children are to line up in the designated area where they will be met by the teachers.  They should return all playground equipment and pick up their personal belongings.

ž          No food, candy or chewing gum is permitted on the playground.

ž          Only one child is permitted on a swing, ladder, slide or chinning bars at a time.  No one is permitted to climb the poles.

ž          No jumping off the swings.  No standing at the top of the slide.

ž          On bad weather days, when children do not go to the playground, they are to report to their classroom or the gym.  While in the classroom, children will remain seated doing homework, chatting with a friend or playing quiet games.  They are not permitted to visit other classrooms, run, skip or jump.  Children must ask permission to use the restroom and are permitted to do so, one at a time.

DRESS CODE

Dress code will be recorded daily by homeroom teacher.  The following action will be taken for dress code violations; 1. Verbal warning   2. Written warning   3. Phone call/demerit    4. Student is sent home.

Students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade are required to wear school uniforms.   A clean and neat appearance is expected as part of the uniform. Logos are not permitted on any uniform clothing.

 

SWEATERS – Only sweaters of cardigan style may be worn.  They must be solid-colored red and have no hood, trim, appliqué, or logo.

 

SWEATSHIRTS - School sweatshirts are permitted.  They must have the St. Matthias logo (either the solid M or the patterned M) and can be purchased from the uniform company.  A uniform blouse, shirt or turtleneck must be worn underneath sweatshirts at all times.

 

BLOUSES AND SHIRTS - Blouses and shirts must be solid-colored, red or white, oxford or polo style, cotton or cotton blends, and must have a collar.  All blouses and shirts must have sleeves (long or short) and must be tucked in at all times.  White, plain tee shirts are permitted under the uniform shirt or blouse.

 

TURTLENECKS -Turtlenecks must be solid-colored, red or white, and must be tucked in at all times.  Turtlenecks of the same color as the top shirt may be worn under a long sleeve blouse, shirt, sweater, sweatshirt or jumper.  In keeping with modesty, only boys may wear a turtleneck alone.

 

PANTS - Pants must be solid-color black and a uniform company style only.  Levi-style, patches, rivets, or colored stitching is not permitted.  Leggings, stirrup pants, sweat pants, corduroys, stretch pants/shorts, exercise wear, bicycle pants/shorts or any other fashion trend that may arise are not permitted either alone or under the uniform if they extend below the hemline of the jumper.

 

SHORTS - School shorts may be worn in August, September, May and June or when given permission by the principal.  These must be plain, solid-color black walking shorts above the knee at mid-thigh or longer.  All exclusions listed under pants apply to shorts also.

 

BELTS - Belts must be solid-colored and can be dark brown or black. Belt buckles must be nondescript.   Belts are optional for kindergarten and first grade students.  For all other students, belts must be worn if pants or shorts have belt loops.

 

JUMPERS – For girls grades K through 8 are of the plaid style from the uniform company.  They must be no shorter than 2” above the knee.

 

SOCKS - Socks/tights must be worn at all times.  Socks must be solid-colored, black, red or white and at least 2” above the ankle or knee length.  Solid red, white or black nylon or knit tights are permitted.  Hose are not permitted.  If socks are worn with tights, they must be the same color.

 

DRESS SHOES - Dress shoes must be cut below the ankle.  Heels and soles may be no higher than ½”.  They must be solid-colored brown or black.  Shoes must be laced to the top and tied.

 

TENNIS SHOES - Tennis shoes may be worn as an alternative to dress shoes.  Tennis shoes must be cut below the ankle, solid-colored, white or black, and have no decorations or logos.  Laces must be the same color as the shoes and laced to the top and tied.

 

BOOTS - Snow, hiking, athletic, or any other type of boots are not permitted to be worn the entire school day because of health factors, but they may be worn to and from school during bad weather. Plain colored red or white sweatshirts and pants without any type of logo are also permitted.

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM - The St. Matthias gym uniform may be purchased by contacting the school office.  Plain colored red or white sweatshirts and sweatpants without any type of logo may be worn over the gym uniform. Sweatpants must have elastic waist and elastic at the ankles.

 

JEWELRY AND MAKE UP - Girls may wear one pair of studded post or clip-on earrings on the earlobe only - no dangling earrings or hoops.  Boys are not permitted to wear earrings.  One necklace with a religious symbol is acceptable.  Bracelets/wristbands are not acceptable. No rings.  Girls in the seventh and eighth grades are permitted to wear natural looking makeup at the discretion of the school staff.  Nail polish must be clear or natural looking.

HAIR -

Girls; No ostentatious hair jewelry, or hair decoration, streaked or outlandish hair color or styles.

Boys; No hair jewelry, or hair decoration, streaked or outlandish hair color or styles. Boys hair is permitted to cover the ear but not to exceed the lower tip of the ear. Hair (in back of head) may be no longer than the top of the shirt collar). Hair (on front) may be no lower than the eyebrows. Hair must be kept neat at all times. Facial hair is not permitted except neatly trimmed sideburns. Sideburns may not extend below the earlobe. Eccentric (extreme) hairstyles (this includes hair color) are not permitted. Earrings may not be worn during the school day or to any school sponsored activity.

 

 

SPECIAL OCCASIONS - The principal may give permission for modest casual clothes to be worn on field trips.

 

Organizational uniforms (scouts, teams, etc.) may be worn with permission of the principal.

 

Students may receive out-of-uniform passes as a special privilege.  These passes must be given to the homeroom teacher when attendance is taken.

 

It is suggested that parents put their child’s names in all clothing.

 

The principal determines if a student is in proper uniform.

 

ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS

No data shall be released about student records without the written consent of the parent(s)/guardian(s). Parent(s)/guardian(s) of a minor child may request a copy of any item in a student file.  Those permitted to view a student’s records are:  school personnel, parent(s)/guardian(s), non-custodial parent unless denied by a court order, or school officials to which a students transfers.

 

HARASSMENT POLICY

1.                   Harassment can take many forms.  Harassment can occur at any school activity, and/or can take place in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, or even at programs sponsored by the school at other locations.  It des not include compliments of a socially acceptable nature.  Harassment is verbal or physical conduct that embarrasses, denigrates, or shows hostility toward a person because of his/her race, color, religion, gender, sex, national origin, age or disability.

 

 

2.                   It is the policy of the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Columbus to maintain a working and academic environment, in all programs and activities, free of all forms of harassment and intimidation.  No student, teacher, other staff member, or volunteer should be subject to harassment in any form, and specifically not to unsolicited and/or unwelcome sexual overtures or conduct, either verbal or physical.

 

3.                   Conduct which constitutes sexual harassment is prohibited.  Sexually harassing conduct includes but is not limited to, the following:

 

Offensive sexual flirtations, advances, propositions;

Continued or repeated verbal abuse of a sexual nature;

Explicit or degrading sexual or gender-based comments about another individual or his/her appearance;

The display or circulation or sexually explicit or suggestive writing, pictures or objects;

Any offensive or abusive physical or verbal conduct which shows hostility or aversion toward an individual because of gender or sex;

Graffiti of a sexual nature;

Fondling oneself sexually or talking about ones sexual activity in front of others;

Spreading rumors about or categorizing others as to sexual activity.

 

 

 

4.                   A sexual hostile environment can be created by a school employee, volunteer, another student, or a visitor to the school.

 

 

5.                   Anyone who experiences what they believe is harassing conduct must bring it to the attention of an appropriate person at the school, or at the superintendent’s office.  Any person who believes they are subject to harassment or intimidation should contact either the principal, assistant principal, or pastor at the elementary level; and the principal, assistant principal or superintendent at the secondary level.  A complaint should be filed in writing.  In the case of harassment involving a student or students, the parents or guardians of the respective students shall be duly notified.  In the event that an individual alleges harassment by a principal, assistant principal or a pastor, the individual may file the complaint with the superintendent.  All complaints will be promptly investigated, and the person initiating the complaint will be advised of the outcome of the investigation.

 

A student who believes he or she has been sexually harassed (or a parent who believes that their child has been harassed) should immediately report it to a responsible school official.

 

 

 

 

6.                   Where it is determined that improper harassment has occurred, the school will take immediate disciplinary action against any administrator, teacher, staff or student engaging in harassment.  The response shall take into account and be considered to be appropriate for the ages of the individuals and circumstances.

 

7.                   No retaliation against anyone who reports harassment will be tolerated.  The Diocese prohibits such retaliation and will take appropriate responsive action if retaliation occurs.

 

8.                   Any knowingly false charge of harassment made for the purpose of harming a person’s reputation will have very serious consequences, which may include, depending on the circumstances, termination of participation in programs, suspension, or expulsion.

 

 

BULLYING (5140.02)  9/02

 

St. Matthias School Staff shall not tolerate any bullying on school grounds or at any school activity.  Consequences for students who bully others may include counseling, parent conference, detention, suspension and/or expulsion depending on the results of the investigation.

 

 

 

 

 

Sexual harassment also includes the taking of, or refusal to take any school or academic action on the basis of a person’s submission to or refusal of sexual overtures.  No person should so much as imply that an individual’s “cooperation” or submission to unwelcome sexual activity will have any effect on the individual’s assignment, advancement, development, academic evaluation, participation in school programs, or activities, or any other condition of school, or athletic achievement.

 

 

 

Not all physical conduct is necessarily considered sexual in nature.  (For example, a coach hugging a student after an accomplishment, a teacher consoling a child with an injury, or physical conduct during athletic events would not be considered sexual conduct.)  However, peer-based sexual harassment (e.g., student to student) can be a form of prohibited conduct where the harassing conduct creates a hostile environment.

 

 

PUBLISHING STUDENT INFORMATION

A school, school employee, school organization or the Diocese may publish student information in various formats including websites under the following conditions:

 

If proper notice is given and the parents of a student do not object, directory information may be released.  Directory information includes names of students, grade level, honor roll, activities, sports, awards, and date of graduation.  (See Regulation 5126.2)

 

A consent signed and dated by the parent(s) of a student must be obtained to release personally identifiable information.  Personally identifiable information is information that makes the identity of a student more traceable.  Personally identifiable information includes pictures with and without names, addresses, social security numbers, ID numbers, personal characteristics (height, weight, etc.), educational records.  (See Regulation 5126.2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The following release form must be signed and dated by the parent of a student prior to releasing personally identifiable information as defined in Policy 5126.0

This form if needed will be sent from the school office

PARENT’S CONSENT FOR RELEASE OF PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION

The undersigned parents of (student name) a student at St. Matthias School hereby consent to the release of the following personally identifiable information.

Specific information to be released:

Reason for release:

Information to be released via:

 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

The undersigned consent to the transfer of the above information to a third or subsequent party.

 

 

DIRECTORY INFORMATION NOTICE

 

The following notice must be printed annually in the school handbook which is distributed to parents

 (See Policy 5126.0)

 

“Directory information regarding students will be released in various formats including websites unless a parent notifies the school that such information is not to be released regarding his/her child.  Directory information includes names of students, grade level, honor roll, activities, sports, awards and date of graduation.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE PRIMARY ROLE OF THE PARENT/GUARDIAN

 

To help young people develop the self-control necessary to succeed, parents are obligated to teach and model good habits of behavior as well as proper attitudes toward school.  To do that, parents/guardians should:

 

 

v     Show commitment to their religion by attending Sunday Mass with their children regularly

v     Recognize that the teacher takes the place of the parents while the student is at school

v     Expect children to respect authority, the rights of others and public and private property

v     Share an interest in student progress

v     Praise improvement demonstrated by the child

v     Insist on prompt and regular school attendance

v     Arrange for a consistent time and place for students to complete homework

v     Understand and comply with the rules of the school concerning student conduct and cooperate with the school in carrying out disciplinary actions

v     Periodically review the bus behavior expected of bus students

v     Be financially responsible for student fees and parish support, according to St. Matthias guidelines

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 PARENT AND STUDENT AGREEMENT    

****** This is a SAMPLE form, please complete the form which has been inserted in your family packet. 

          The completed form is due the first day of school

We have read and agree to be governed by the policies put forth in the St. Matthias Parent Handbook.

 

____________________________                       ____________

Parent signature                                                            Date    

 

____________________________                       ____________

Student signature                                                          Date    

 

____________________________                       ____________

Student signature                                                          Date    

 

____________________________                       ____________

Student signature                                                          Date    

 

____________________________                       ____________

Student signature                                                          Date    

 

____________________________                       ____________

Student signature                                                          Date