ST. PlUS X ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

37 EAST EMERSON STREET

CHULA VISTA, CA 91911

Phone -(619) 422-2015 Fax -(619) 422-0048
email:  stpius@cox.net

website:  http://school.saintpiusx.org

 

 

A Catholic School of the Diocese of San Diego, CA

-       Member of the National Catholic Education Association

-       Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges

                         and the Western Catholic Education Association

 

 

OFFICE HOURS 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

 

Appointments -Due to the normal/busy and hectic schedule of teachers and administrators, appointments are necessary if you wish to conference. Please do not just "drop in" as adequate time cannot be given to you. Please, always make an appointment first. Appointments with the principal and or teachers may be arranged by calling the school secretary.

 

The Diocesan Administration Handbook establishes the policy parameters within which this school operates. A copy of this handbook is always available in the school office. Copies may be purchased from the Diocesan Superintendent's Office. Policy numbers in this school handbook refer to the Diocesan Administrative Handbook.

 

The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego,. mindful of their mission to be witnesses to the love of Christ for all,. admit students of any race,. color,. and natural and / or ethnic origin to all the rights,. privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, and national and/ or ethnic origin, age, sex or disability in the administration of educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

 

Likewise, the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of sex, age, disability , race, color and national and / or ethnic origin. ( California Catholic Conference, March 1994; revised January 1997) .

 

The principal of St. Pius X School reserves the right to change, and/ or update this handbook. Parents and students will be notified of any changes. This handbook is based upon and subject to the diocesan School Policy Handbook.

 

ST. PIUS X SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

 

Students at St. Pius X School learn in a Christ-centered educational environment. Their education and formation is student-centered to encompass spiritual, academic, psychological, social, cultural and physical growth. This is the top priority of the administration, faculty, staff, and parents/ guardians.

 

Students with their various cultural backgrounds learn to know, love, and serve God and to see themselves and others as special persons created in God 's image, loved and cherished by God, and therefore, to view themselves as unique individuals of great dignity and worth.

 

Our students develop a desire for prayer, reflection, and reverence for all creation, and they take advantage of provided opportunities to share the Good News, to build Christian community and to be of service to others.

 

St. Pius X students learn to bear witness to Christ and to His values through their interactions with others. Students at St. Pius X School learn that God loves everyone and that a loving response to God leads to a more fu1filling life.

 

Students work to achieve mastery in basic skills. They do so using a variety of materials and techniques which honor different learning styles and multiple intelligences to develop effective skills in creative and critical thinking, in decision-making , in problem solving, and in making moral choices. Students build on their learning to prepare themselves for higher education and their future roles as Catholic/Christian members of an ever-changing world, under the direction of teachers and staff in cooperation with parents.

 

Mindful of the lifelong learning process, our students become life learners who integrate Christian truths and values into their daily lives, as they work for justice and peace as vibrant members of family, Church, school, and society .

 

The administration, faculty, and staff at St. Pius X School, in partnership with the parents who are the primary educators of their children, are committed to assisting students in developing their full potential.

 

ST. PIUS X SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

 

The mission of St. Pius X School is to provide a Christ centered educational environment which is student focused. We strive to provide a quality education that allows each student to:

            - Have a deeper relationship with God

            - Improve academic achievement .develop physically

            - Grow socially

            - Mature emotionally

 

At St. Pius X School, we work with our students so that they become life learners who integrate Catholic truths and values into their daily lives, while becoming vibrant members of family, Church, school and society.

 

SCHOOL HISTORY

 

St. Pius X School has operated in St. Pius X Parish since 1960. Through June 30, 1986 our school was staffed by the Sisters of Saint Clare and lay teachers. Beginning with school year 86-87, the entire school staff has been comprised of laywomen and laymen.

 

St. Pius X School operates under the policies of the Diocese of San Diego and is governed by St. Pius X School Board. It provides Catholic education for children in grades K-8.

 

ADMINISTRATION

 

Pastor: Rev. Luke Jauregui                               Senior Priest: Rev. Donald R. Kulleck 

Principal: Mrs. Eileen Hanson                           

 

FACULTY AND STAFF

 

Kindergarten:                                                                           Mrs. Jennifer Dixon

Grade 1:                                                                                  Mrs. Gail Ivary

Grade 2:                                                                                  Mrs. Mary Dohman

Grade 3:                                                                                  Mrs. Zena Lujan

Grade 4:                                                                                  Mrs. Kathleen Patacsil

Grade 5:                                                                                  Ms. Terri Francois/ Ms. Brenda Randol

Grade 6:                                                                                  Mrs. Guadalupe Vecchitto

Grade 7:                                                                                  Mrs. Marion Montgomery

Grade 8:                                                                                  Mrs. Kayte Russell

 

Assistant-Principal:                                                                 Ms. Brenda Randol

Computer:                                                                              Ms. Brenda Randol

Physical Education:                                                                 Mr. Patrick Gonzalez

 

Music:                                                                                    Mrs. Ami Abrigo

Art:                                                                                        Mrs. Kathleen Patacsil

Classroom Aides K-8:                                                            Ms. Ermelinda Rivera, Mrs. Ann Cortes Ms. Maria DiMase, Mrs. Holly Desbien,

                                                                                              Mrs. Kim Vitha, Mrs. Florence Burgos, Mrs. Connie Limon, Ms. Ruby Smith

Library-Aide:                                                                          Mrs. Elva Gonzalez

Secretary:                                                                               Mrs. Kathleen Espinoza

Health Aide/Clerical Aide:                                                       Mrs. Clare McGrath

Bookkeeper                                                                           Mrs. Cleme Lopez

Maintenance:                                                                          Mr. Bert LeMieux

Daycare Lead                                                                        Mrs. Holly Desbien                                   

After School Sports Coordinator:                                           Mr. Patrick Gonzalez

Yard Supervisors:                                                                   Mrs. Kim Vitha, Ms. Ermelinda Rivera, Mrs. Holly Desbien, Ms. Ruby Smith

                                                                                              Ms. Florence Miller, Mrs. Ann Cortes, Ms. Cindy Dantzler, Mrs. Limon

 

ST. PlUS X SCHOOL BOARD (2205.2)

 

The general purpose of this Board is to support and implement the philosophy of St. Pius X School, whose aim is to integrate the teaching of gospel values with the curriculum, and then to create an environment where Christian community can be experienced through liturgy, Sacraments and social action.

 

The proper role of this Board is advisory in policy formulation, school planning and development, and program review, not administration. The policies formulated by this Board must be consistent with and supportive of the policies of the Bishop and Diocesan Board. No policy of this Board shall become binding without the approval of the Pastor, unless formally appealed to the Diocesan Board.

 

Meetings are usually held on the third Tuesday of each month arid are open to the public unless an executive session is called. Time and specific dates are always listed ahead of time in the school Highlights. Parents wishing to address the school board must contact the president a week before the meeting and ask to be put on the agenda. A written form, available in the office, must be submitted with the request to speak.

 

COMPLAINTS

 

Complaints about a person or a personality are not handled by the school board, or by any board connected to the school. These concerns should be discussed privately with the person involved, and with the principal, if necessary. All such issues are handled privately with the utmost concern for one's reputation.

 

ST. PlUS X DEVELOPMENT BOARD

 

The general purpose of this board is to investigate ways which will insure future financial security for St. Pius X School. This board is comprised of the principal, parents, and parishioners. The St. Pius X Development Board is always looking for individuals who would like to become active members. For more information please contact the school office.

 

ST. PlUS X PTG (1210.11)

 

The purpose of this organization shall be:

1. To promote a broader appreciation of the ideals of Catholic education.

2. To enlist the spiritual, educational and social resources of home and school in providing the best Catholic education possible.

3. To function as a forum of exchange for parents and teachers and an informal advisory group to the school administrators.

4. To provide an effective organization for school fund raising efforts.

5. To foster the integration of families into the life of the parish community.

 

MEMBERSHIP: All teachers, parents and guardians of children presently attending St. Pius X School are eligible for active membership. All meetings are open to any member of 5t. Pius X Parish.

 

Meetings are held throughout the year -October, December, February and April. The specific dates, time and location are always listed ahead of time in the Parish bulletin and school Highlights.

 

Annual dues are payable at the beginning of each school year. The fee is $25.00 per family and are collected at registration.

 

SCHOOL INFORMATION

 

School Hours (6122): 8:00 AM - 2:45 PM

 

Supervision is provided from 7:45 a.m. unti1 3:00 p.m. on full days and from 7:45 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on minimum days.

 

Children arriving before supervision must report to Extended Day Care.

Non emergency absences (such. as vacations) are not encouraged during school time.

Students will have no more than 2 weeks after their return to complete missed work and tests.

 

MINIMUM DAY HOURS (6113): 8:00 AM -12:15 PM

 

Minimum days, holidays, Professional In-Service and vacation schedules are noted on the official school calendar. Changes would occur in the event of emergencies only.

 

TRAFFIC PATTERN

 

All cars picking up students after school need to follow the traffic pattern. The traffic pattern runs for fifteen minutes after school dismissal. After that students may be picked up at the Day Care. In the morning the traffic pattern begins at 7:45 -8:00 AM .

 

ADMISSIONS

 

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY (5010.1-2, 51110)

 

The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego, mindful of their mission to be witnesses to the love of Christ for all, admit students of any race, color, and natural and / or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and

activities generally accorded or made available to students at the schools. The Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, and national and/ or ethnic origin, age, sex or disability in the administration of educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

 

Likewise, the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of San Diego do not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of sex, age, disability , race, color and national and / or ethnic origin. ( California Catholic Conference, March 1994; revised January 1997 )

 

PRE-ADMISSION INTERVIEW (5111.2)

 

Prior to a final decision regarding the admittance of a student to the school, the principal may interview the parents or guardians of the perspective student for the purpose of:

            - exploring the goals and motives of the parents or guardians in making application to a Catholic school .clarifying mutual expectations, and

            - eliciting and/ or confirming those attitudes and value commitments that are essential preconditions for the success of the school's total program of   Christian education and formation

 

KINDERGARTEN ADMISSION (5112)

 

A child who is five years of age by September 1, and who is developmentally ready, may be admitted into Kindergarten.

 

Developmental readiness will be determined by the school. St. Pius X School will use a standardized screening process which is approved by the Superintendent's office. This assessment will be administered by a qualified tester appointed by St. Pius X School. The results of this assessment will be the basis used

            - to determine developmental readiness and

            - to determine acceptance into St. Pius X School Kindergarten program, if a child meets the above stated age requirement

            - students must be able to attend to their own bodily needs

 

ADMISSIONS FOR GRADES K-8

 

Students seeking admission to grades K-8 will be tested to determine the level of their basic skills, and to ascertain at which grade level they would be most successful. Incoming students will be placed at the grade level judged by St. Pius X School to be the best grade level for that particular student. Students will be admitted as space allows.  To be considered for admission to St. Pius X school families must agree to accept all school and parish policies.

 

IMMUNIZATION AND HEALTH SCREENING

 

No child may be admitted as a student unless he/she has been immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles. Hepatitis immunizations are required for 7th grade admission.

 

HEALTH SCREENING EXAMINATION (5142)

 

California Law requires specific health screening procedures for all children entering school for the first time. Perspective kindergarten, first grade and all transfer students shall be notified of this obligation at the time of registration. .

 

The school shall make every effort to arrange vision and hearing screening for students in grades kindergarten, three, five and eight. Scoliosis screening is required for all seventh grade students.

 

 

ATTENDANCE (5113)

 

TARDINESS AND ABSENCE

 

Tardiness should be the exception not the rule. It is very important for students to be on time for school in order to form good habits of responsibility. Parents/ guardians should play an integral part in insisting their child/ children are not late for the 8:00 AM bell.

 

A child who is late twice in one week shall be assigned the up-coming detention. Any student who is absent from school without a valid excuse more than three days or who is tardy in excess of 30 minutes each of four days or more in one school year, is a truant and can be reported to the attendance review board of the local public school district for action. (5113.1)

 

The exception to this shall be for students detained at the border. These situations will be handled on an individual basis by the principal.

 

A student who has been absent is required to present a written excuse stating the reason for his/her absence and signed by a parent/ guardian. If a child is going to be absent, a parent/ guardian should call the school office before 9:00 AM that day. When the child returns to class a note must be presented to the homeroom teacher. .

 

If students are absent 10 days a quarter they may lose credit for classes. Excessive absences may require home schooling or summer school. Remember family vacations count as being absent.

 

VACATIONS DURING SCHOOL TIME

 

Family vacations during school time are highly discouraged. Vacations should be taken outside of classroom times. If a vacation cannot be postponed, the following procedures are to be followed:

            - Principal approval must be obtained at least one week prior to a vacation of more than two days.

            - The child's teacher must be notified immediately after principal approval is given.

            - Parents must also notify the school office.

 

Please Note: Teachers cannot do advanced lesson plans for vacations. Students need to check with their teacher, upon returning, to see if they need to make up tests or assignments. Students will have no more than 2 weeks after their return to complete missed work and tests. Homework is posted daily on the school website:  http://school.saintpiusx.org

 

ILLNESS AND INJURY (5141.2)

 

Should a student be injured or become ill during school hours, the parent/ guardian will be contacted. No student shall be permitted to go home unless this contact is made.

 

If a parent or guardian cannot be reached and the illness is serious enough to require medical attention, the principal or her appointee, shall consult the student's emergency care authorization form and arrange for the treatment authorized.

If a child is absent more than 10 days in a quarter, grades may be withheld until work is completed and/ or home schooling may be recommended. Students will have no more than 2 weeks after their return to complete missed work and tests.

 

DOCTOR/DENTAL APPOINTMENTS (5141)

 

Parents or guardians should make every effort to schedule doctor / dental appointments after school hours. If a child must be dismissed for such an appointment, a parent/ guardian must sign the student out. A note must be received from the doctor/dentist upon the child's return.

 

VISITATION OF STUDENTS DURING SCHOOL HOURS (5116,1250)

 

All persons entering St. Pius X School shall go first to the school office to obtain the proper authorization to visit the school. Items that need to go to the classroom must be dropped off at the office, including lunches.

 

Parents or guardians must confer with teachers before or after school hours or at other appointed times so as not to interrupt class instruction. Teachers and principals are available by appointment.

 

Observation of classrooms may be arranged with prior approval by the principal and teacher. Requests must be made in advance of the visit and must not last longer than an hour so as not to disrupt the class.

 

No person, agency or organization shall contact an individual student during the school day without permission from the Principal or Assistant Principal.

 

MEDICATIONS (5141.1)

 

Medications shall not be furnished to students by the school. No medication of ANY KIND shall be administered by school personnel. If a child needs medication, he/ she must turn the medication into the school office immediately upon his/her arrival. This includes all types of medication including aspirin, etc. It must be accompanied by a note stating clearly the instructions of time and dosage. At the appropriate time, the child shall return to the office and take the medication himself/herself in the presence of school personnel.

 

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES (5142)

 

Students shall participate regularly in fire and disaster drills. Proper procedures for evacuation shall be explained to the students. ORDERLY AND SILENT COMPLIANCE IS MANDATORY.   At school there are emergency bins for disaster supplies.  Every student is asked to provide a bag of emergency food to have on hand in case of a school disaster.

 

INSURANCE (5143)

 

All students in Catholic parochial schools participate in the Diocesan student accident insurance program. This insurance provides benefits for students injured at school, on the playgrounds while participating in athletic contests and while directly going or coming from a school related activity. All claims must be filed by the parent or guardian. The school's only responsibility is to give the form to the child. This is a secondary coverage.

 

The fee for student accident insurance is included in the student fees which are part of the tuition.

 

STUDENT RECORDS (5125.1)

 

Parents shall be responsible for providing the school with an accurate, complete and signed Emergency Care Information card for EACH CHILD they have registered at St. Pius X School. Parents will be provided with official Diocesan Emergency Care cards for this purpose.

 

ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS (5125.2C)

 

The student's parents or legal guardians have the right to inspect all of their child/children's records in the presence of the principal or her delegate. However, behavioral records, e.g.. counselor reports, shall be inspected in the presence of the person qualified to interpret them. The school has forty-five (45) days to comply with requests to inspect student records; it will make every reasonable effort to comply with facilitation of the request.

 

St. Pius X School voluntarily complies with the provisions of the Buckly Amendment. Non Custodial parents will be given access to unofficial copies of student records and staff will be available to discuss the student's records, unless a court order providing otherwise is filed with the school. It would be appropriate that divorced parents file a notarized copy of the custody section of the divorce decree with the school to help protect the rights of everyone in the family. This will also save time when non-custodial parents ask to see their child's records.

 

If one parent does not want the other parent to receive the school's communication materials the school must have a court order on file from the one parent stating this request.

 

RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION (5125.4)

 

Directory information includes: student's name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports events, dates of attendance, and names of schools previously attended.

 

Parents will be provided a form to give permission or deny permission for the release of the above mentioned information.

 

RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS TO SCHOOLS OR PARENTS (5125,5C)

 

Official transcripts will be mailed to the receiving school or delivered by a school official. They will NEVER be given to parents or students for delivery to the school. A parent/ guardian signature is required for release of such records.

 

INSTRUCTION PROGRAM

 

ACADEMIC PROGRAM (6120)

 

The school curriculum at 5t. Pius X encompasses all the learning experiences (cognitive, affective, spiritual and psycho-motor) planned and directed under the leadership of the principal and to be compatible with Diocesan and school policy.

 

RELIGION PROGRAM (6140,6141-6141.2)

 

The educational mission of the church and the reasonable expectations of parents require that the Catholic school be distinguished by an atmosphere and a formal program which relates religious beliefs and practice with the normal development and education of children. Regular religious instruction shall be an, integral part of the educational program for all students at St. Pius X School at all grade levels.

 

Student progress in acquiring an intellectual grasp of the Religion course material, will be tested, evaluated, graded and reported according to the same procedures established by the school for other subjects in the curriculum.

 

Regular planned liturgical and paraliturgical experiences shall be carefully integrated into the school program of St. Pius X.

 

Catechesis for First Eucharist and First Reconciliation shall be given in Grade 2.

 

FAMILY LIFE PROGRAM (6146)

 

St. Pius X shall inform parents of the general character of the school's Family Life program. A parent/ guardian may review the textbooks at any time by sending a written request to the classroom teacher.

 

All students are required to participate in all aspects of the school's Family Life program with the exception of those segments which deal with genitally explicit topics.

 

For students in grades 5-8, a parent/guardian consent shall be obtained for the child's total participation in the program. Parents wishing to remove their child from genitally explicit topics can return the permission form stating their wishes.

 

Absent written parent/ guardian instruction shall allow the school to presume to have authorization of the individual parent/ guardian to include their child/ children in all aspects of the program.

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM(6145)

 

The physical education program shall emphasize the development of life skills and positive personal attitudes. It shall be balanced and proportioned to the needs and abilities of all students.

 

Every student is required to participate regularly in his/her P.E. class. A doctor's note shall be an accepted excuse for non participation.

 

The school P .E. uniform or the uniform walking shorts are the only accepted apparel to be worn during the P .E. class. Failure to comply with the uniform policy may result in the denial of a student's participation in school privileges, such as field trips. Three infractions may be grounds for such a denial. .

 

 

HOMEWORK (6154)

 

Homework, designed to meet the needs of students has an essential place in the educational program. It is very important that homework be completed on a daily basis or as directed by the teacher. Chronic failure to complete and submit homework, will be reflected in the academic grade as well as responsible behavior.

 

The primary goal of homework is:

            - to reinforce concepts and skills that have been presented in class;

            - to foster the student's creativity and discipline through enrichment projects or research;

            - to train the student to work independently and to accept responsibility for completing a task.

 

The guidelines for daily homework time allotments are:

 

Grade 1            time will vary

Grade 2            30 minutes

Grade 3            45 minutes

Grade 4            1 hour

Grade 5            1 hour and a half

Grade 6            1 hour and a half plus reading time

Grade 7            2 hours plus reading time

Grade 8            2 hours plus reading time

 

A notification indicating a lack of homework or incomplete assignments will be sent to parents by the individual teacher.

 

Generally homework is not given on the weekends or vacation times, however teachers may choose to do so. The exception may be when a long term project/report or research project is assigned, a student may need to use weekend/vacation time to complete the assignment.

 

PROGRESS REPORTS

 

Progress reports will be sent home as follows:

            - Everyone will receive a progress report every quarter in grades 4 -8.

            - All students in grades K -3 will receive a progress report in the first and third quarters.

            - All students in grades K -3 who are having difficulties will also receive a progress report in the second and fourth quarters

 

TESTING (6162)

 

Students at St. Pius X shall participate annually in the standardized tests adopted by the Diocesan Department of Education. Presently, the Stanford Test of Basic Skills is used. They generally are administered in the fall and results are forwarded to parents/ guardians. The ACRE test for religion is given in February only to grades 5 and 8.

 

PROMOTION AND RETENTION (5122 -5122.1)

 

Only those students who complete the work of a particular grade in the basic skill areas shall be promoted to the next grade. In case of slow progress, each student shall be considered individually. .

 

If retention is recommended, it shall be done after careful analysis of data, parent/teacher conferencing and principal consultation.

 

WASC/WCEA  Accreditation

 

St. Pius X is a member of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Educational Association. The school has full accreditation in these organizations through June, 2003. According to Diocesan Policy, every six years the school shall submit to evaluation and accreditation procedures.

 

EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS

 

The number of extracurricular activities held each year is relative to the availability of adult, preferably parent volunteers, to coach or monitor the activity. To participate in extracurricular programs students must maintain a grade average of C and responsible behavior must be a C or above. A student must also turn in homework on a regular basis. If a student falls below a C in two or more academic subjects the student is suspended from play and practice until the grades are passing. Evaluation will be based upon report card/progress report times. A child's teacher may notify the athletic director if improvement is seen and the student can play. All financial accounts must be current for a child to be eligible for extracurricular activities.

 

SPORTS PROGRAMS I CHEERLEADING

 

As members of the Center City Parochial League, we are eligible to participate in any sports program sponsored by the League, once we agree to the appropriate fees.

 

Students in grade 5 -8 will be eligible to participate in athletic programs, (cheerleading programs for grades 6 -8) provided that

            a. they meet academic and conduct requirements and stay in good standing in this regard for the duration of the activity;

b. academic requirements mean that a child must have an overall grade average of C , with no two grades lower than C, during the marking

    period.         

    in which he/she is participating in the extra curricular activity and conduct must be not less than a C;

            c. they pay the required fee.

            d. financial responsibilities need to be paid in full before applying for school admission for the following year.

 

Parent/Guardian signatures and teacher signatures are required for participation in the sports program. The above requirements apply to participation in all extra curricular activities.

 

Please be aware that while St. Pius X School tries to include all students in a particular sports team this may not always be possible.  Unfortunately sometimes students who try our for a particular team may not be chosen to play.

 

STUDENT COUNCIL

 

St. Pius X provides an opportunity for students in grades 7 and 8 to assume leadership roles to help facilitate a community climate, and to provide a service oriented schedule of activities. Students may not have any academic grade below a C or a behavior grade below a B.

 

PEACE PATROL

 

St. Pius X School participates in a school wide Peace Program which is designed to allow students to help one another come to peaceful solutions when faced with disagreements. Students in grades 6, 7, and 8 are eligible for participation provided all academic and conduct requirements are met.

 

SAFETY PATROL PROGRAM

 

St. Pius X School participates in the School Safety Program sponsored by the Chula Vista Police Department. Leadership, service, and team work are emphasized in the program. Students in grades 5 and 6 are eligible for participation provided all academic and conduct requirements are met.

 

HOLY CHILDHOOD ASSOCIATION

 

St. Pius X School is a member of the Holy Childhood Association. Various activities are planned during the school year and the proceeds are sent to the Missions through the Diocesan Mission Office. The involvement of all students is encouraged as it fosters the awareness of the needs of their less fortunate brothers and sisters throughout the world.

 

FIELD TRIPS (6156)

 

Field trips must have specific educational goals clearly related to the curriculum, and with the Principal's approval. They shall be planned prudently

and with the Principal’s approval

 

If a field trip is held, students must have SIGNED AND DATED, THE PERMISSION SLIP PROVIDED BY THE SCHOOL. If individual drivers are solicited from the school, the driver must be in the possession of a valid California driver's license, insurance and sufficient safety belts for each passenger. Drivers shall be 21 years or older. Permission cannot be given over the phone or on any slip of paper other than the official school permission slips.

 

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE

 

St. Pius X School provides a program for before and after school care. In order to participate the child must:

1. Be registered at 5t. Pius X School
2. Be in good health

c.   Abide by all discipline policies

 

Families participating must pay for services at the end of each week during which services are rendered.

Families who fail to meet their daycare financial responsibilities on time must pay to reinstate their child/ren.

 

The daycare program is a service provided at this time and is always subject to financial evaluation. The program must pay for itself and failure to do so could result in termination of the program with a thirty days notice.

 

St. Pius X School provides supervision on the school grounds before school and after school for 15 minutes respectively. Children arriving before or after supervision is provided must report to the Before and After School Care Program. Costs are minimal ($3.50 per hour) and the safety of a child is an important issue and rules for children's safety need to be followed. This also pertains to children waiting on sidewalks within 50 feet of the school grounds. They too must go to the Before and After School Care Program.

 

LIBRARY I LEARNING CENTERS (6163)

 

St. Pius X Library is located in the Mother Seton Center. Students can use the library individually only with permission or with their class as a classroom period. Students are responsible for materials "borrowed" and must behave and be quiet while in the library .Students who damage or lose books will be required to pay for the loss. Repayment is an incurred financial responsibility and library privileges will be denied and report cards withheld for failure to meet these responsibilities. Library fees are five cents a day for over due books and an additional fifty cents per month for every month a book is out.

 

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING (6165)

 

St. Pius X School has no counselor on campus.  We can offer referrals for a family if a family desires.

 

GRADUATION (5123,6111)

 

Diplomas will be awarded to students who have completed the academic requirements and the required service hours of the school for successful completion of an eighth grade course study. Students who do not pass 8th grade will be issued a "limited K-7"' diploma. This limited diploma can be restored to the full diploma upon successful completion of High School summer school.

Graduation is usually held a few days prior to the regularly scheduled closing date of school. A graduation fee will be charged each student. It is a one time fee and may be paid in installments. The entire fee must be paid by February 1st of the current school year. This fee covers the cost of diplomas, graduation gowns, end of the year awards and graduation expenses. This fee shall be determined at the beginning of the year by the Principal and is non-refundable.

All financial responsibilities to the school (tuition, completed service hours, daycare, graduation, student activity fees, sports, lunch and library fees,   textbook and other fees) must be paid before any 8th grade graduation activity such as parties and field trips in order for a student to receive his/her report card or diploma or for participation in such activity. A student whose family has failed to meet its financial responsibilities to the school by graduation may be denied participation in any/all 8th grade activities connected with graduation. 

 

 

COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS

 

ORIENTATION

 

Shortly after the opening of school, a BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT will be held to provide an opportunity for parents/ guardians to meet the teachers and become acquainted with school policy. This evening shall also give the Principal the opportunity to welcome everyone and to highlight yearly goals and review any new policy.

 

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES (1110-12,5124)

 

St. Pius X School believes that parents have the right to expect the school to confer with them regarding the progress of their child / children, therefore;

 

a. First quarter report cards will be distributed only by means of a parent/ guardian conference

b. Progress reports will be sent home as follows:

-        Everyone will receive a progress report every quarter in grades 4 -8.

-        All students in grades K -3 will receive a progress report in the first and third quarters.

-        All students in grades K -3 who are having difficulties will receive a progress report in the second and fourth quarters

            c.     Parents/guardians are encouraged to inquire and ask about the progress of their child/children. Parents must be sure to make   

                   appointments with the teachers beforehand.

 

HONOR ROLL

 

Certificates of honor will be presented at the end of each marking period to students in grades 4-8 who have achieved the following criteria:

 

First Honors                        93% or above in all major subject areas including (Religion, Reading, Language, Spelling, Math, Science, and Social Studies) All other subject areas must be a C/G grade or above

 

Second Honors              85% or above in all major subject areas (see above) All other subject areas must be a C/G grade or above

 

Responsible behavior must be positive. All Honor Roll students must have a B or better in responsible behavior. An honor roll student may not have disruptive behavior which in the opinion of the teacher prevents or interferes with the learning of other students.

 

CJSF

 

Requirements for C J SF:

The following six subjects are used for participation in C J SF -Religion, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Math,

Reading/Literature

 

"A" = 3 points    "B" = 1 point

A student must have 12 points to qualify. The student also needs to follow Honor Roll rules for all other subjects: no grade lower than a "B".

 

The program begins with seventh grade. Students need 3 of 4 semesters in grades 7 and 8 to qualify for graduation seal and cord.

 

CITIZENSHIP AWARDS

 

Monthly, students from each class will be honored for their efforts in conduct and attitude. They will be selected by homeroom teachers and will be honored in front of their peers. These students will be cited for their all around respect for life, their own and that of their peers.

 

 

NEWSLETTERS

 

The school will publish weekly HIGHLIGHTS for the purpose of keeping families aware of weekly events or any changes in scheduling or programs. It will be the student's responsibility to bring these HIGHLIGHTS home and the parent/guardian's responsibility to read them.

 

TELEPHONE

    

To help students develop organizational and planning skills, students are discouraged from using the telephone for routine daily matters. In an emergency, school personnel will contact the parent/guardian. Cell phones must be turned off and remain in backpacks and are not to be used in school, at recess, or during daycare.  If cell phone rule is not followed, the cell phone will be confiscated and turned into the principal.  Parent/guardian must come to pick up cell phone from the principal..

 

VIDEO CAMERAS

Parents who wish to video tape their children during a regular school day must ask permission of the teacher before doing so.  General video taping of school children is not allowed except for special occasions such as:  May Crowning Advent Program, Colonial Day, and class plays, etc.

 

DISCIPLINE (5114-49.3)

 

As a Catholic School we attempt to create a climate that will facilitate the development of the whole person. Therefore, we have standards of appropriate behavior.

 

Our philosophy demands that we work toward the integrating of religious and moral values as a way of life and therefore we will demand accountability for responses and behavior that interfere with the quality of life. Respect for the person is a priority of humanly relating at our school.

 

The rules and behavior policies of our school are not set down to punish, but rather to teach good behavior -behavior we sincerely believe is appropriate not only at school, but for every minute of the day. Students are expected to be accountable for their behavior .

 

The following are the guidelines for the discipline program at St. Pius X School:

 

1. We will respect all people, all property and our fragile earth
2. We will treat others with kindness
3. We will come to class prepared, with our homework completed
4. We will work quietly and raise our hands to speak
5. We will follow the school and classroom rules

 

GENERAL SCHOOL RULES

 

1. Toys and games are not allowed in school unless requested by a classroom teacher.
2. Radios; walkmans, C D players, cassette recorders, iPods, etc. are not allowed in school or Day Care.
3. Gum is never allowed in school.
4. Bicycles must be locked in the bike rack and may not be used or ridden during school time or on school property. (The school is not responsible for bikes brought to school.)
5. Students involved in fighting or biting will be sent home immediately. Consequences for the fight will be given the following school day.
6. Serious offenses, or repeated misbehavior will be referred to the discipline board, if school time permits.

 

Specific unaccepted behavior is:

      1.   Disrespectful language/gestures

      2.   insubordination to adults -teachers, visitors or volunteers

      3.   fighting, throwing of any objects, stealing or cheating or the destructi9n of any property of the school or what may belong to any other student 

      4.   possession of any harmful device or substance: to include tobacco, alcohol, drugs, weapons or any such items

      5.   any type of bullying and/ or harassment

      6.   any type of behavior that will cause injury to another. This includes biting or any serious threats of harm

      ·Destruction or defacement of property demands reimbursement.

      ·Possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons or any harmful item that threatens the safety of the students are grounds for 

        suspension/expulsion.

      ·Students who are asked to leave the classroom for inappropriate behavior will be sent to the office, given a detention, and the student will call parent/guardian to report his/her behavior.

            ·Students who fight or bite will be sent home immediately.

 

 

POLICY FOR STUDENT TO STUDENT HARASSMENT

 

The Diocese of San Diego affirms the Christian dignity of every student. It is the policy of the diocese to provide an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect. Harassment is unacceptable conduct. This policy addresses harassment occurring in a school environment when an individual is subjected to treatment which is hostile, offensive or intimidating because of the individual's race, creed, color, national origin, physical ability , gender, or other personal characteristic.

 

A charge of harassment shall not, in and of itself, create the presumption of wrongdoing. However, acts of harassment will result in disciplinary action up to, and including expulsion. Students found to have filed knowingly false or frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action up to, and including expulsion. depending on the nature and extent of the charge, if reasonable suspicion of misconduct is determined, the parents of the alleged harasser will be called to take the student home pending conclusion of the investigation by the school.

 

Disciplinary action for Harassment will follow the Student Discipline Policies, #540, in Handbook for Schools.

 

BULLY POLICY

 

Bully behavior is not allowed at St. Pius X School. If you do any of the actions below, you are acting like a bully and this is not allowed:

 

1. Pushing others around
2. Calling others names
3. Spreading rumors about others
4. Talking about others behind their back
5. Excluding others from your group
6. Telling people not to like someone
7. Bossing others around
8. Hitting or kicking or hurting others
9. Taking other people's things
10. Laughing at others in a mean manner.

COMPUTER/INTERNET POLICY

Language and behavior that is not consistent with the mission and philosophy of the school, when using popular web sites such as Facebook, Myspace or Youtube is subject to the policy as outlined under student threats in this handbook.  Photos and demeaning comments about schools, teachers and students are not acceptable.

See appendix for Computer/Internet Policy use by students.

SAFE CAMPUS POLICIES

 

At St. Pius X School, we strive to provide a safe environment for all our students. Our students have the right to learn without fear of threat, injury or violence (physical harm to another person). Because we have students from grades Kindergarten through grade 8, the policies below may fluctuate a bit for a younger child. And, because some situations may have extreme mitigation factors, the pastor and the principal are the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any and all regulations for just cause at his/her discretion.

 

The following actions are not allowed:

Bully Behavior

1st. offense -benched at recess and/ or lunch

2nd. offense -detention with school counselor -repeat offenders go before the disciplinary board

 

Biting

lest. offense -sent home from school on day of incident

2nd. offense -sent home from school and given 2 days in house suspension

-repeat offenders are sent home from school and appear before the disciplinary board

 

Fighting

1st. offense -sent home on day of incident and given 2 days in-house suspension

2nd. offense -sent home from school, given 4 days in-house suspension, and appear before the disciplinary board -repeat offenders will face expulsion

 

Verbal threats of serious harm to another

1st. offense -parents called, police called, student sent home from school and not readmitted until completion of psychological risk evaluation. Please see Diocesan policy.

 

Actual physical harm to another of a serious nature

-parents called

-police called -possible arrest and booking in juvenile hall -immediate suspension until disciplinary board

-immediate suspension until disciplinary board meeting

-possible psychological risk evaluation may be required

-probable expulsion

Bringing play weapons to school

(depending on the situation) Diocesan Policy of verbal threats of serious nature will be followed

-probable expulsion

 

Bringing weapons, or illegal substances to school

            -parents notified

-police called- possible arrest and booking in juvenile hall

-immediate suspension until appearance at disciplinary board

-probable expulsion

 

Harassment

1st. offense -removal from classroom, parents called, and 2 days in-house suspension

2nd. offense -4 days in-house suspension, appear before the
            disciplinary board

-repeat offenders -may be expelled depending on the nature, circumstances, and extent of the charges

                - harassment of a very serious nature may result in expulsion

Please note: Making false charges against someone is very serious and will be treated as such.

 

 

DIOCESAN POLICY AND PROCEDURE -STUDENTS THREATS

 

1. Any and all student threats of harm to self or others must be taken seriously.
2. Whoever hears the threat will report it to the principal immediately.
3.  Police will be notified immediately.
4. The parent/guardian of the student who has made the threat should be notified immediately. .
5. The student will be kept in the principal's office under supervision until the police/parents arrive.
6. The parent/ guardian of any student who has been mentioned as a potential victim, as well as any adult who has been mentioned, either verbally or in writing, or listed in writing will be notified immediately.
7. The student will work from home and will not be considered for readmission to the classroom unless and until the following steps have been completed.

a.       The principal must receive a report from the police, either written or verbal. That report should include notification of whether the child will be charged with any crime as well as an assessment of the child's access to weapons.

b.       A comprehensive mental health evaluation and risk assessment must be conducted by an independent psychiatrist or psychologist. If a psychiatrist performs the primary evaluation, he/she will determine if it is necessary to utilize a psychologist for psychological consultation or testing. If a psychologist (Ph.D.) performs the primary evaluation, he/ she shall determine the need for psychiatric consultation.

c.       The principal will, after obtaining the permission of the parents, provide the mental health care professional with all relevant facts, including but not limited to aggressive behavior, details of the threat as known to the principal, copies of any drawings or writings, disciplinary history of the student, behavioral concerns, and the names of any known victims or potential victims.

d.       The principal shall receive a written comprehensive, detailed evaluation and report and documented treatment plan from the mental health care professional stating the basis (factual and risk factors and testing results) upon which it has been determined that the student does not pose a danger to self or others. The report must also address the concerns raised by the principal to the mental health professional. The evaluation and report must be delivered to the principal. The principal will share them with legal or administration who will assist the principal in the decision regarding readmission of the student to school

8. If the psychiatrist or psychologist recommends re-admittance, and if the principal is satisfied with the report given, the principal will, after due consideration, including a conference with the parents, decide whether to re-admit the child. The outcome of the investigation, including police and mental health reports will be considered as determining factors in the decision whether to re-admit. This decision will not be made or announced at that meeting. Any decision on whether to re-admit will require consultation with the pastor.
9. Disciplinary action including suspension/expulsion will be administered as appropriate.

   10.   If the student is re-admitted to the school, the mental health care professional must at the principal or

          pastor's request provide a follow-up assessment of the student within 30 days. The principal must be provided , with a copy
         of the follow-up assessment and evaluation and with any recommendation for therapy, counseling, or other treatment.
         Cooperation and      recommendations for continuing care will be a condition of re-admittance and continued enrollment.

  11.   Counseling will be made available to children who are victims of the threatening behavior or who observed the threatening
          behavior if it is determined that such counseling is needed and parental permission is granted.

  12.   Documentation from the mental health care professionals concerning the student is to be placed 'in a separate, confidential
         file and should not be part of the student's academic or disciplinary file. Only the principal and/or pastor should have access to
         these files This documentation will be kept for a period of one year beyond the time when the child leaves the school as a
         result of expulsion, withdrawal by parent/ guardian, or graduation before being destroyed.

 

 

DISCIPLINE

 

To provide a strong discipline program of consistency throughout the school in areas of discipline, St. Pius X School has an age appropriate system of using rules, consequences and rewards. The program provides firm and consistent limits and positive rewards. If the limits are gone beyond, then the child must take the consequences.

 

During the BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT, each teacher will outline for parents/guardians the rules and policies particular to his/her classroom. These same rules will be explained to the students on the first day of school. The discipline program clearly establishes the perimeters of what is expected from the student and what the student can expect in return.

 

If a student receives a detention the student must report to the assigned room on the detention day. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR MISSING DETENTION. No sports event, music or dance lesson, planned activity associated with the school or not, takes precedence over detention. If the student is absent that day he/she is to make up the time the following week. If detention is deliberately missed, the detention time will be doubled.

 

If a DETENTION SLIP is sent home, it must be signed by a parent/ guardian and returned the next day. The receipt of a Detention Slip should be taken as very serious as it indicates that the student has not only tested the limits of a given rule/policy, but with warning has gone beyond. Any child who receives Three detentions during one marking period may be referred to the DISCIPLINE BOARD for disciplinary action.

 

DEMERITS

 

Grades 5 -8 use the demerit system in their classroom and list the codes used in their rooms. One detention equals 3 demerits, two days suspension equals 4 demerits, and three days suspension equals 5 demerits.

 

PROBATION (573)

 

A student may be placed on probation if his/her conduct/academic record is seriously deficient,

 but not so serious as to warrant expulsion. Students placed on probation will have the term and conditions spelled out in a letter. Generally probation is for one marking period. A conference will be held with the parent/ guardian. Violation of the probation may result in expulsion. A positive change in behavior is expected in order to remain at St, Pius X School. The school will make every effort to work with the child to assist in a change for the better.

 

SUSPENSION (574)

 

Suspension means that a student is to remain away from classes for a definite period of time. Suspension will be handled on an individual basis. Suspension is meant to suspend the student from all academic and extra curricular activities during the time of suspension. Parents are responsible for a student during suspension. THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY WORK OR MAKE UP ASSIGNMENTS. Work and assignments missed are the total responsibility of the student when he/she returns to school. It may be "in house" (at school) or "off campus" (at home).  This will be decided on an individual basis.

 

EXPULSION (575)

A student may be expelled from school for misconduct of a very serious nature calling for immediate dismissal without suspension, or for repetition of behavior for which the student has already been placed on probation or suspended one or more times. Expulsion, the permanent termination of a students enrollment, is the most serious penalty which the school can give and therefore, it is given only as a last resort for clear and serious cause. .

In the case of an accused felony, the accused will resume study in a home study program until guilt or non guilt is determined. If found not guilty, the accused may return to school. If found guilty, the decision to return to school or not will be made by the principal, pastor, and superintendent.

 

DISCIPLINE BOARD

 

The purpose of the discipline board is to review serious cases of misconduct or repeated rule breaking. The discipline board will suggest a course of action as a consequence. The suggestions will be given to the Principal and Pastor for final approval. Suggestions may include denial of privileges, probation, suspension, counseling, expulsion or other disciplinary actions.

 

Serious offenses shall include:

 

• Actions gravely detrimental to the moral and spiritual welfare of other students.
• Incorrigible or disruptive behavior which impedes the progress of the rest of the class.
• Damage to, or theft of school, church or private property.
• Intentional infliction of, or threatened physical injury to another person.
• Possession or sale of weapons.
• Possession or sale of drugs, including controlled substances or intoxicants
• Possession, sale or use of tobacco.
• Commission of obscene act(s) or engagement in habitual profanity or vulgarity.
• Disruption of school activities.
• Defiance of school authorities.
• Habitual truancy.
• Actions that cause injury to another.
• Repeated Bully type behavior.
• Repeated Harassment type behavior.
• Receiving an F in responsible behavior on the report card for any quarter
• Hazing.

 

In regard to offenses which take place off school premises and which constitute grounds for expulsion, the school must have evidence of the offense and establish its relationship with school discipline and the welfare of students.

 

Students who are referred to the Disciplinary Board MUST appear at the hearing with a parent or legal guardian at the appointed time. If this time is not convenient, the parent/ guardian must contact the principal before the assigned meeting of the board to make other arrangements. Failure to appear before the board will result in severe action by the board, which may include suspension or expulsion.

 

UNIFORM REGULATIONS

All clothing must be clean and mended

 

Uniform for Mass - Dress uniforms are to be worn on Mass days, skirts and jumpers for girls and long pants for boys. No shorts.  Students in Grades K - 3 may wear their P.E. uniform since Mass is often on their P.E. day.

 

All Students K-8

1. Navy blue or khaki uniform walking short  (no shorter than 4’’ above the knee) no cargo pockets on shorts
2. White or navy knit polo shirt with SPX logo

3.        Navy blue long sleeve sweater may be worn

4.        Navy blue sleeveless sweater vest with SPX logo may be worn

5.        Long sleeve white or navy blue turtlenecks may be worn

6.        Plain white T-shirt only under blouse or shirt

7.        Shirts must be tucked in

8.        School sweatshirt/school jacket only (St. Pius logo only jacket/sweatshirt may be worn in class)

9.        Plain white crew socks with full cuff that folds over or white SPX logo socks

 

GIRLS KDG. - 8

1.        School uniform jumper

2.        Short sleeve white blouse with pointed collar

3.        Girls in grades 6-8 wear a uniform skirt instead of a jumper with the above mentioned blouses or polo shirts

4.        All jumpers and skirts may not be shorter than 3" above the knee

5.        Navy blue or khaki twill uniform pants are allowed (no cargo pockets)

6.        No bell bottoms, hip huggers, or low rider pants are allowed; must wear uniform pants

7.        If girls choose to wear a belt it must be plain solid black, brown, or navy blue

 

*Do not cut off the hem of the skirt or jumper since they may be let down to allow for the child’s growth.

 

BOYS KDG. -8

1.        Navy blue or khaki twill uniform pants with white or navy knit polo shirt with SPX logo (no cargo pockets on uniform pants or shorts)

2.        Belts must be worn through belt loops at the waistline and be plain solid black, brown, or navy blue

 

SHOES K - 8

1. Must be solid black, brown, white or uniform blue (including athletic shoes)
2. Shoelaces must be solid black, brown, white or navy blue   No other colors allowed
3. Shoes must tie, buckle, strap or Velcro (including athletic shoes)
4. Shoelaces must be tied
5. All shoes must have rubber soles
     
6. No heelies are allowed
7. Shoes may have a very small amount of approved colored trim (black, brown, white or navy blue)
8.  No patterns or decorations allowed on shoes
9. Shoes must not have heels / soles higher than 2 inches

 

 

P.E. UNIFORM    P.E. uniforms can be worn only on student's P.E. days (check with teacher on days)

·  Uniform walking short                                                     ·  Navy blue or white knit polo shirt with St. Pius logo

·  Uniform royal blue color sweat pants                                ·  Navy blue or white polo P.E. shirt with St. Pius logo

·  Athletic shoes                                                                 ·  Special “50” year T-shirts and sweatshirts are allowed

·  P.E. uniform shorts (fleece or mesh)

 

We highly recommend that the uniform items be purchased at True Grit Uniforms, so as to have the proper uniform for St. Pius X School.

 

                                                                                                                               

ITEMS NOT ALLOWED

 

The uniform is as previously stated, however, to be specific the following items will not be allowed.

 

1.        Shoes: The school reserves the right to make decisions on whether shoes are safe on the school grounds. No boots are allowed for boys or girls. Shoes are not to have decorations. No sandals or heelies are allowed.

 

 

2.        It is important to note that only the school sweatshirt or school jacket will be allowed as part of the uniform and may be worn in class. Other kinds of jackets and all other sweatshirts may not be worn. Heavy outer coats may be worn outside over school uniform jacket or sweatshirt during cold weather.

 

 

3.        Only the St. Pius X P.E. uniform may be worn for P.E.  Royal blue sweat pants for P.E. may not be cutoffs.

 

 

4.        Plain white T -shirts are not allowed as part of the P.E. uniform.

 

 

5.        T-shirts worn under the uniform shirt or blouse must be solid white and free from all decorations/ advertisements.

 

 

6.        No oversized blouses, or baggy clothing may be worn. Pants and shorts must be worn waist high. Shirts must be tucked in and stained or dirty shirts are not allowed. Pant cuffs cannot be frayed.

 

 

7.        No article of clothing that has been identified as gang related is allowed. The principal may use her discretion in            identifying gang related clothing.

 

 

8.        Jewelry is not part of the school uniform and may not be worn.

1. No bracelets, no dangling earrings, no necklaces (except one chain with a small religious medal)
2. Body piercing is not allowed (except for girls’ ears)
3. One watch and one ring on each hand,
4. One pair small earrings only (no larger than a dime) are acceptable.
5. Boys are not allowed to wear earrings. The principal and teachers have the discretion to ask any student to remove any jewelry that is inappropriate.

 

 

9.        Make up in any form is not acceptable

1. -no lipstick                    -no lip gloss                                         -no rouge
2. -no eye shadow             -no eye liner                                        -no fingernail polish
3. -no fake fingernails        -no dyed, streaked or bleached hair       -no mascara -no tattoos

 

10.     Hats are not worn during class, and are not allowed on the school grounds, except in the case of heavy rain.

 

11.     Only glasses medically prescribed may be worn.

 

12.     Boys must be clean shaven

 

13.     Shirt and blouses must be tucked in during class. The only exception is P.E.

 

14.     Haircuts must be simple and non-distracting. Heads may not be shaved or feathered. Spiked hair, rattails and other styles of this nature are prohibited. The addition of any coloring to the hair is also prohibited.

 

15.     Boys’ hair must not reach the collar of their shirt. Boys may not wear ponytails or pin their hair up. Hair length cannot exceed 2-inches.  Again, it is better to be simple about this matter. The principal's discretion will be the guideline.

 

FREE DRESS

 

MUST BE APPROPRIATE FOR A CATHOLIC SCHOOL.

 

      All free dress must be appropriate for our Catholic School.  Students who do not wear appropriate dress will be asked to call home for a change of clothes and/or lose recess and lunch free time.  On designated free dress days, clothing must be appropriate.

 

1. Shirts must be free of improper messages or advertisements of alcohol, drugs, rock groups, or of sadistic, satanic destructive theme.

2. Shirts and blouses must be long enough to cover all stomach and back skin while sitting down or standing.  No bare midriffs are permitted.  No low rider pants are permitted.

3. Shirts, dresses or blouses must have sleeves and appropriate necklines and backs.  Therefore no tank tops or sleeveless blouses or dresses of any kind are permitted.

4. Girls' skirts must be of a modest length.

5. Shorts, if worn must the "walking short" length, no shorter than 4 inches above the knee (No short shorts are allowed).

6. Shorts must be visible beneath any top that is worn over them.

7. Bicycle shorts and/or pants or shorts made of spandex material are not allowed.

8. Clothing should not be to tight.

9. Socks must be worn at all times.

10. No sandals or backless shoes may be worn.
     

 

IF shorts are determined to be too short or any other inappropriate attire is worn to school, students will call home for a change of clothing and/ or lose recess and lunch free time.  May in some cases next free dress day privileges.

 

All the before mentioned regulations regarding, shoes, jewelry, make-up, glasses, hats, and haircuts must also be observed on free dress days.

 

The principal must approve all free dress days.

 

These uniform policies are not meant to be unreasonable, but rather to minimize distraction and as much as possible maintain a uniform appearance.  Our priority with our time should be with the children and not dealing the extremes of cosmetics and clothing.  It seems fair to expect that as long as the school requires school uniforms, individuality of expression through dress will have to be experienced outside of school hours.  The Principal's discretion may be exercised in any situation where there is a question about appropriateness of uniforms.  Your cooperation is expected and appreciated.   

All students may wear free dress on faculty meeting days only.  Students who have a free dress pass or who are celebrating a birthday may wear free dress on the designated day of the month.

 

     

 

 

TEXTBOOKS -CARE and COSTS

Each student is responsible for the proper care of his/her textbooks.. Hard cover textbooks have become very costly and must be covered and taken care of at all times. However, any textbooks or workbooks damaged, destroyed, lost or for any reason are in need of replacement, the cost will be assessed at the current costs .the school pays. Included will be current taxes and fees for shipping and handling. Please see the school office for the price of a lost or damaged book.

BACKPACKS

Backpacks on wheels must have straps and working retractable handles. Suitcases on wheels are not allowed.

 

 

PTG AND CONTRIBUTIVE SERVICE

 

Strong and total involvement in the school community has and continues to be one of the main objectives of St. Pius X School. Support of the school will always be a key component to the success of the school, and integral to that support is the volunteer system of CONTRIBUTIVE SERVICE.

 

The purpose of the Contributive Services program is to encourage strong and total. involvement of

parents/ guardians in the affairs of the school. A Catholic parochial school cannot function without the services of volunteer help. Parental involvement is the life blood of our school providing it with ideas and spirit which cannot be bought. The time and talent received from parents/ guardians keep tuition within range of our community .Without the volunteer help, tuition would have to be markedly increased.

 

Every family enrolled at St. Pius X School will be requested to participate in a volunteer Services Program. The parents/ guardians for each family will contribute a minimum of thirty (30) hours of service to the school by May 1.

 

A system of recording volunteer hours has been developed by the PTG and it is the responsibility of each family to make sure the hours are recorded in order for proper credit to be given.

 

A volunteer list will be presented to each family the first week of school. This list will describe the various services needed by the school, allowing each family to choose fields of their interest.

 

The school bookkeeper will be responsible for the accounting of time and the billing and collecting of money in lieu of services. All questions regarding service should be directed to the school bookkeeper.

 

 

 

DISPUTES/GRIEVANCES (2450)

 

Every effort should be made to resolve all differences and disagreements as quickly as possible at the organizational level as close to the dispute as possible.

 

All communication regarding questions or differences that occur should be directed to the person responsible for the situation. If resolution cannot be obtained, then the appropriate level of authority should be

contacted. If you have a question regarding a class situation you should first meet with the teacher and then if necessary the teacher and principal.

Other school related issues should be directed to the principal, then if necessary, the school board. School related issues should not be discussed at PTG meetings as this is not the proper forum.

Parents may bring policy issue concerns to the attention of the 'School Board. This should occur only after the issue has been discussed with the school person involved and with the principal. Please see School Board II on page 3 for specifics on the procedures needed to address the School Board.

 

Please note that any letter with suggestions and concerns that are sent to the principal must be signed. The principal cannot properly act upon unsigned concerns. Please know that the principal is always open to anyone who identifies himself and has a justified concern. At St. Pius X School respectful communication between all parties is expected as indicated in Education code # 44812.

 

Education Code # 44812 -Any parent, guardian or other person who insults or abuses any teacher in the presence or hearing of other school personnel or students at a place which is on school premises or public sidewalks, streets, or other public ways adjacent to school premises or at some other place, if the teacher is required to be at such other place in connection with assigned school activities, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is punishable by a fine of not less then $50 nor exceeding $500.

 

TUITION AND FEES

 

The annual school tuition is established each school year by the School Board and approved by St. Pius X Parish Council. Tuition is paid through the "FACTS" Program.  Several payment options are available through "FACTS" including a payment in full, before September, which earns a 2% discount.

 Tuition payment in full or participation in the FACTS program are the only way to pay tuition.  Please remember to qualify as a contributing parishioner at least $400 needs to be donated to the parish the calendar year before the new school year begins.  Tuition cannot be changed in the middle of the year.

 

A registration fee of $250 per child is due February of each year This is paid directly to the school as a non- refundable deposit to secure placement in the school for the next school year

 

Guidelines for determining the status of contributing/non-contributing families in assigning tuition rates for
St. Pius X School

1         Each school family must be attending Mass regularly and contributing regularly to the parish.

2         Contributions are posted to the school family under the name of the parent(s).

3         Contributions are not accepted from grandparents for the family of a child in the school unless one of the following conditions is the case:

1. The grandparent(s) is the legal guardian of the child.
2. The grandparent(s) does not have legal custody but the child is living with the grandparent and all expenses for the child are provided by the grandparent.

4         If one of the parents is living with the child in the home of the grandparent, this parent should be registered as a parish family, be attending Mass regularly, and contributing to the parish under his/her own name. If the parent is not attending Mass regularly, they shall be considered ( for purposes of contributing/non-contributing tuition) outside the parish.

 

TUITION AGREEMENT (3241)

 

Every parent or guardian who enrolls a student in the school shall sign a written agreement to pay specified tuition and fees and to comply with all diocesan and school policies and regulations, including those governing tuition delinquency.

 

When tuition and/or fees are delinquent, report cards will be withheld at the end of each quarter. Failure to fulfill financial responsibilities to the school may result in the student's withdrawal from the school. Returned checks incur a $25.00 service fee to the school. All tuition fees and other Monies owed including fundraising and service hours must be completed and paid in full by April 30 for a student to participate in graduation activities.

TUITION ASSISTANCE (3245)

Tuition assistance is available and families in need (families must be a contributing parishioner) should contact the school office for the appropriate forms. Tuition assistance forms should be completed in May for the following year . Re-registration for the upcoming school year is due by the end of February.   There will be a fee to process any late registrations.   (See appendix on Tuition Assistance/Financial Aid)

Credit Card Fees  Credit Card companies may change their interest fees without notice and this fee will be passed onto the credit card holder.  The school charges a 2% fee for all transactions via credit card.

Student Fees

$250 Re-registration fee per student per year

$25 PTG enrollment per family per year

$100 - Graduation fee for 8th grade students

$20 - Seventh grade fee for refreshments for the 8th grade graduation

Also please remember there is a fee for sixth grade camp

Students may also incur fees from the library if books are lost or not returned on time.

 

 

LUNCH/MILK

 

Students may order lunch from our school lunch program or bring lunch from home. The lunches from home should be of the nature that they do not require any heating or preparation. No microwaving of lunches will be allowed. Families should ensure that each child has his/her lunch when he/she comes to school. Dropping a lunch off at the office or delivering it to school, should be the EXCEPTION NOT THE NORM. It will be considered inappropriate for children to receive fast food lunches. Such special lunches can cause problems in school and do have a way of setting a child a part from his/her peers. When asked, "JUST SAY NO". The school office assumes no responsibility to deliver any lunch to a child.

 

The school lunch program is ordered a month in advance. Menus are sent home and must be returned by the due date along with a check for the amount of the lunches.

 

Milk cards may be purchased for $3.50 and are good for twelve purchases. St. Pius X School does participate in the Federal Milk Program and applications for free milk are distributed each year at the beginning of the school year.

 

ROLE OF THE PARENT (1200)

 

Parents have the primary responsibility for the education of their children. Specifically I this includes the responsibility:

 

1. To  establish a home environment which teaches the moral values, religious habits, social skills, self discipline, and commitment toning   upon which successful Catholic schooling is based;
2. To make a wise and informed choice of schools for their children, keeping in mind that each school has its own unique character, tone, and strength;
3. To be fully informed regarding all aspects of their children's developmental progress, and where needed, to take and/or support the remedial action; and
4. To make every effort to establish and maintain a collaborative and mutua1ly supportive relationship with the school which they have selected for their children.
5. To work cooperatively with your child's teacher and to follow the classroom protocol
6. To support the policies of the parish, school, and classrooms