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TRANSCRIPT
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
History ………………………………………………………………………………………….…… 5
Mission……………………………………………………………………………………….……… 5
Crest……………………………………………………………………………………….…………..5
Philosophy of Holy Family Core……………………………………………………………. 5
Contact Information………………………………………………………………………….... 5
SECTION 2: ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
Class Size………………………………………………………………………………………….... 6
Enrollment/Non-Discriminatory Policy………………………………………………... 6
Registration…………………………………………………………………………….………….. 6
Requirements for Admission……………………………………………………….……….. 6
Tuition & Fees 2016-2017…………………………………………………………….………. 6
SECTION 3: GENERAL INFORMATION
Board of Directors………………………….……………………………………………………. 7
Tutors………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7
Academic Program……………………………………………………………………….……… 8
Assessment/Testing…………………………………………………………………….………. 8
Grading…………………………………………………………………………………….………… 8
Program Calendar……………………………………………………………………….………. 8
Cancellation/Delay…………………………………………………………………….……….. 8
Safe Environment Training……………………………………………………….…………. 8
Arrival & Departure Schedule………………………………………………….……………. 9
Authorization for Pick-Up……………………………………………………………………. 9
Class Rules ……………………..…………………………………………………….…………… 9
Lunch Information………………………………………………………………….…………… 9
Recess……………….……………………………………………………………………………….. 10
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Visitors…………………………………………………………………………………….………… 10
Parking……………………………………………………………………………………….……… 10
Email Communication………………………………..……………………….………………. 10
SchoolSync……………………………………………………………………………….………… 10
Health & Medical Information…………………………………………….……………….. 11
Medications………………………………………………………………………………….…….. 11
SECTION 4: PARENT INFORMATION
Arrival & Departure……………………………………………………….……………….…… 12
Late Arrivals…………………………………………………………………………….…………. 12
Late Pick-Ups……………………………………………………………………………………… 12
Attendance………………………………………….……………………………………………… 12
Homeschool Assignments…………………………………………………………………….. 12
Parent Responsibilities…………………………….………………………………………….. 13
Quarterly Reports…………………………………………………………………………………13
Additional Academic Assistance……………………………………………………………. 13
Parent-Tutor Conferences……………………………………………………………………. 13
Parent On-Site…………………………………………………………………………………….. 14
SECTION 5: STUDENT INFORMATION
Water Bottles…………………………………………………………………………….………… 16
Uniforms………………………………………………………………………………….………… 16
Backpacks & Belongings………………………………………………………………………. 16
Student Badges………………………………………………………………………….………… 16
Student Conduct………………………………………………………………………….……… 17
Student Respect………………………………………………………………………….………. 17
Student Responsibilities………………………………………………………………….…… 17
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SECTION 6: POLICIES
Peanut-Free Policy………………….…………………………………………………………… 18
Sick Policy………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
Lice Policy………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
Phone Call Policy……………………..………………………………………………………….. 18
Electronics Policy………………………….…………………………………………………….. 19
Candy & Caffeine Policy…………………………….………………………….……………… 19
Discipline Policy………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
Disciplinary Actions, Probation, Suspension & Expulsion……………………….. 19
Harassment Policy…………………………………………….………………………………… 20
Grievance Policy…………………………………………….……………………………………. 21
Search & Seizure Policy………………………………………………………………………… 21
Drug Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………. 21
SECTION 7: BUILDING & GROUNDS SAFETY
Emergency Drills…………………..…………………………………………………………….. 23
Emergency Kits…………………………………………………………………………………… 23
Emergency Procedures………….…………………………………………………………..… 23
Code Alert…………………………………………………………………………………………...24
SECTION 8: STAFF INFORMATION
Staff Arrival & Departure………………………………………..……………………………. 25
Morning Prayer…………………………………………………………………………………… 25
Staff Absences………….…………………………………………………………………………. 25
Staff Lunch/Recess/Planning Period……….……………………………………………. 25
Lunch & Recess Duty…………………………………………………………………………… 25
Classroom Cleanliness & General Care………………….…………………………….... 26
Staff Code of Conduct………………………………………………………………………….. 26
Staff Dress Code………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
Staff Communication…………………………………………………………………………… 28
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Outdoor Classes…………………………….……………………………………………………. 28
Lesson Plans…….…………………………………………………………………………………. 29
Quarterly Reports…………………………………………………………………………………29
Orientation of New Employees……………………………………………………………… 29
Professional Development……………………………………………………………………. 29
Substitutes/Substitute Folder…………………………………………..………………..…. 29
Temperature Control…………………………………………………………………………… 29
Staff Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
Paychecks…………………………………………………………………………………………… 29
Copyright Laws…………………………………………………………………………………… 30
Employment Forms…………………………………………………………………………….. 30
The Parent, Student & Staff Handbook has been prepared for your information. We ask that you and your children read through it carefully and become acquainted with its contents.
Rules and regulations in this booklet have been established for the safety of each student and the betterment of the program. Violators of the rules and regulations will be subject to disciplinary measures as listed herein.
Please read, sign and return the acknowledgement, on page 31, to the HFHA Board of Directors by August 8, 2016.
All information subject to change with approval by the HFHA Board of Directors.
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Introduction HISTORY
In an answer to the call of the Holy Spirit and a desire to serve the needs of the Catholic homeschooling community, Ashley Gervais and Katherine Wayert opened the first Catholic educational cooperative on the Northshore in 2013. Located at St. John the Baptist Parish in Folsom and using the Catholic Schoolhouse curriculum, the cooperative began with seventeen families meeting once a week. In its second year, it grew to twenty-four families and fifty-seven students. In the spring of 2015, after reassessing the needs of the community, together with a team of parents, Holy Family Homeschool Apostolate (HFHA) was formed.
MISSION
The mission of Holy Family Homeschool Apostolate is to serve the homeschool community by offering educational experiences that support and encourage families in their vocation. All things are done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit in accordance with the Roman Catholic faith and moral teachings.
CREST
Discovering all that is true, good and beautiful with the help of Mary (fleur-de-lis), who encompasses all beauty; Joseph (tools), who recognized God’s truth; and Jesus (Eucharist/cross), who is all good. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit (dove), and in accordance with the Roman Catholic faith (St. Peter’s keys).
PHILOSOPHY OF HOLY FAMILY CORE
The philosophy of Holy Family Core embraces the sacred truth that parents are privileged to be the primary educators of their children. Holy Family Core intends to work in partnership with parents in order to assist them in living this vocation. It desires to extend the domestic church established within the home by blending the best of home education and the classroom into one balanced system. This system meets the obligation and sacred duty of the parent in accordance with natural law and the teachings of the Catholic Church, while providing a quality education that is cost effective. Holy Family Core is intended to complement, not replace, the education the students will receive at home.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2303, Covington, LA 70434
Website Address: www.holyfamilyhomeschoolapostolate.com
HFHA Board Email: [email protected]
SchoolSync Site: http://schoolsync.net/schools/holyfamilycore/
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Admissions Information CLASS SIZE
Desiring to meet the needs of each student, Holy Family Core has a maximum class size of 16 students. Enrollment of students beyond the maximum class size must be approved by the HFHA Board of Directors. Assistants will be hired, if needed.
ENROLLMENT/NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY
Holy Family Core admits homeschooling students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities available to students. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin. However, due to its limited resources, Holy Family Core may not be able to accommodate students with severe special learning needs.
REGISTRATION
Priority of admission is given to returning Holy Family Core families and HFHA Board of Directors’ children.
Registration of returning students will be held in February of 2017. Registration for new students will be held in March of 2017. Parents wishing to enroll must register online.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
1. A child must be five (5) years of age on or before October 1 of the current year in order to enter kindergarten.
2. Parents are required to inform HFHA of their child’s specific academic, emotional, or physical needs. HFHA has the right to discern if Holy Family Core will best meet an individual child’s special needs.
TUITION & FEES 2016-2017
Registration $100 per family Due upon registration
Student Fee $75 per student Due by June 1, 2016
Tuition* $1,500 per student Due by August 1, 2016
Tuition must be paid in full by August 1st or through 10-monthly installments set up at Parent Orientation.
* Tuition does not include required books or optional Seton enrollment. A list of required books will be emailed to all registered families.
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General Information BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The HFHA Board of Directors is a group of parent volunteers who oversee the programs
and employees. The 2016-2017 HFHA Board of Directors are:
President Katherine Wayert Vice-President Daniel Burns, Ph.D. Secretary Michele Marsh Treasurer Sarah Hull Ex-Officio Ashley Gervais
Please contact the appropriate officer as listed below:
For questions or concerns regarding HFHA programs or employees, please contact Katherine Wayert or Daniel Burns.
For information regarding Safe Environment training, please contact Daniel Burns.
For questions regarding tuition, fees, payroll, taxes and payments, please contact Sarah Hull.
For questions regarding the schedule, insurance or the calendar, please contact Michele Marsh.
TUTORS
All tutors and assistants recognize parents as the primary educators, support them in that vocation and understand that our program is intended to complement, not replace, the home education of the students. Tutors are not guaranteed to be certified. A love for children, joy for teaching and strong classroom management skills are qualities HFHA looks for.
POSITION TUTOR Kindergarten & First Grade Jamee Hood
Second & Third Grade Mary Frank
Fourth – Seventh Grade Math Patricia Phillippi
Fourth – Seventh Grade Religion, Language Arts & Reading Donna Damare
Fourth – Seventh Grade History & Science Angelle Damare
Tutor Assistant Susan Putnam
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ACADEMIC PROGRAM
Holy Family Core is a parent-led program under the direction of the HFHA Board of Directors. Holy Family Core primarily follows the Seton Home Study lesson plans and curricula focusing on the following academic areas:
Math: to understand the numerical process & master the skill of problem solving
Reading: to master reading comprehension and develop thinking skills
Language Arts: to develop in the skill of communication
Religion: to understand and love the truth of our Catholic faith and Church
History: to develop an understanding of history and events, and how the impact
of the Catholic faith relates to the history of the world
Science: to understand, explore and ask questions about the world around us
ASSESSMENT/TESTING
Recognizing parents as the primary teachers, Holy Family Core will not administer any tests. Optional testing will be left for parents to administer on homeschool days. However, in an effort to place students in proper skill levels, a mandatory math placement test will be administered for students in grades 4-7.
GRADING
All assignments completed in class will be graded in class. All homeschool assignments should be graded by the parents. Tutors will not correct assignments completed on homeschool days.
PROGRAM CALENDAR
The Holy Family Core academic calendar can be downloaded from the HFHA website. If exceptions to the calendar are made, they are done so with the approval of the HFHA Board of Directors. Parents will be notified via email if any changes are made to the calendar.
CANCELLATION/DELAY
In the event of inclement weather, outbreaks of illness, etc., the HFHA Board of Directors will notify all families by email if classes are cancelled. Make-up days will be announced if necessary. All staff will be notified of class cancellations and delays via text.
SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING
In obedience to the Archdiocese of New Orleans, every adult (person 18 years or older) whether on staff, a parent or serving as a volunteer, who has ongoing contact (more than
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once) with children, MUST complete a Safe Environment training session and have a current background check. The training and background check must be repeated every three years. There is no cost for participants. Safe Environment is a program of training and response for identifying, reporting, and dealing with cases of abuse, particularly sexual abuse against children.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE SCHEDULE
8:30 a.m. Staff & Parent On-Site Arrival
8:40 a.m. Student Drop-Off (via carline)
8:50 a.m. Morning Offering & Classes Begin
1:10 p.m. Pack-Up
1:15 p.m. Carline Dismissal
1:30 p.m. Staff Dismissal
AUTHORIZATION FOR PICK-UP
Only persons who are listed on the Student Pick-Up Authorization Form as responsible parties will be allowed to pick up students from class. Forms will be available at Parent Orientation.
CLASS RULES
HFHA classroom rules will be reviewed at Student Orientation. The rules will be posted in the classroom and will be referenced as often as needed in order to create class unity, and promote virtue and self-regulation of student and class behavior. HFHA Class Rules are:
1. COME ready to learn 2. FOLLOW directions quickly 3. LISTEN when others are speaking 4. WORK quietly 5. RAISE YOUR HAND if you have a question or need help 6. KEEP hands, feet and objects to yourself
LUNCH INFORMATION
All students will eat lunch at the same time in the cafeteria, or outside if weather permits. All students should bring a cold lunch in a lunch bag (with an ice pack) labeled with the student’s name. A microwave is available for use by staff only. Students are not permitted to ask staff to heat up lunches. Students should not pack beverages containing caffeine. Our campus is a peanut-free zone; NO PEANUT products are permitted (see page 18 Peanut-Free Policy)
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Parents, grandparents and other guests are welcome to eat lunch with a student at any time as long as they check-in with the Parent On-Site (see visitor information below) and receive a Visitor Pass.
RECESS
Immediately following lunch, all students will have a short recess. Recess will be held in the field south of the picnic tables, away from the street and parking lot. For safety reasons, students are not permitted to climb trees, explore the woods or play any type of contact sport.
VISITORS
Holy Family Core welcomes parents, family members and friends. Upon entering the building, all visitors must report to the Parent On-Site to sign-in and receive a Visitor Pass. Visitors are required to present their Driver’s License. Any visitor who visits on a regular basis must be Safe Environment trained.
PARKING
Parents, staff, visitors and volunteers are to park in designated areas only. Please see the Carline Map to avoid parking in spots that will inhibit the carline process.
EMAIL COMMUNICATION
All email communication should be sent through the HFHA email addresses listed below. Please refrain from emailing to board/staff’s personal email accounts.
Board of Directors: [email protected]
Jamee Hood: [email protected]
Mary Frank: [email protected]
Donna Damare: [email protected]
Angelle Damare: [email protected]
Patricia Phillippi: [email protected]
SCHOOLSYNC
The Holy Family Core SchoolSync site will include all lesson plans, the program calendar, announcements, and tutor/program communication. Lesson plans can be printed directly from the site. Please make sure to set up a family or student account prior to the first day of classes by visiting http://schoolsync.net/schools/holyfamilycore/
1. Click on the “Parent or Student Sign Up” button at the top left of the page.
2. Fill-out the SchoolSync Account form, creating a username & password.
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HEALTH & MEDICAL INFORMATION
It is the sole responsibility of the parent to complete the Student Medical Form, ensure the information is current and to notify the program of any changes in students’ emergency contacts, physician, insurance, health concerns and/or medications.
If a major accident or serious illness occurs, the student’s parent will be notified. Emergency medical help and transportation will be secured, if needed. If a parent or other family member cannot be contacted, medical help will be secured, and the parent will be contacted as soon as possible. The following are to be considered emergency first-aid priorities:
absence of or difficulty breathing poisoning or ingestion of chemicals seizure control absence of pulse diabetic emergency allergic reaction broken or dislocated bones severe bleeding unconsciousness
MEDICATIONS
Medications will NOT be administered by any staff, parent or volunteer on campus unless a student has a life threatening allergy. In such situations a signed Medicine Authorization Form MUST be on file and accompany the allergy medication in a bag. Forms will be provided at Parent Orientation. In all other situations, if a student is in need of any type of medication, the parent will be called for pick-up.
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Parent Information ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
The doors to the Catechetical Center will open promptly at 8:40 a.m. No parents or students should walk in before or during drop-off. Students will be dismissed at 1:15 p.m. All students will line up in the Hall between 1:10-1:15 p.m. The tutor assistant will lead carline dismissal while tutors clean up classrooms.
During both arrival & dismissal, parents should:
1. Park in a line following the Carline Map. Dismissal only: display carline numbers in the front or driver’s side window.
2. Follow the direction of the arrival/dismissal staff.
3. Be considerate and patient, always keeping the safety of the children in mind.
LATE ARRIVALS
Students who arrive after 8:50 a.m., MUST be walked in by a parent and proceed to his/her homeroom classroom.
LATE PICK-UPS
Please be mindful of the time of the dismissal staff. Parents who arrive after 1:25 p.m. will be charged a $10 fee for each occurrence. In the event of an emergency, that prevents you from picking up your child(ren), please notify the Parent On-Site or make arrangements for another parent to pick up your child(ren).
ATTENDANCE
Students are not penalized for absences. However, it is the parent’s responsibility to ensure all class assignments are completed at home on absent days. Lesson plans can be accessed on the SchoolSync site. Please notify the tutor in the event of a child’s absence.
HOMESCHOOL ASSIGNMENTS
Homeschool assignments are designed to reinforce and complement classroom learning. Our timeframe does not allow all weekly required work to be completed in class time. Tutors will post home assignments on the SchoolSync site to be completed on homeschool days. It is expected that each student will complete work when it is assigned, in the specified time frame. It is the responsibility of the parents to check and correct all homeschool assignments. As primary educator, parents can choose to complete assignments orally etc., as long as the concepts are covered. If a student comes to class unprepared, it affects the quality of the entire program. If a student consistently does not complete assignments on homeschool days, a parent meeting will be scheduled with the tutor, parents and the HFHA President/Vice-President.
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PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Parents must be fully committed to Holy Family Core for its success and must do their part intelligently and faithfully. Parents are expected to regularly check classwork and complete & correct homeschool work. If a homeschool assignment is completed orally, the parent should put a large check mark on the page with parent initials/signature to show the page was completed.
2. Parents are responsible for sending their children to class fully prepared with:
Books in an appropriate backpack
Refillable water bottle (no glass bottles are permitted)
Student Badge
Lunch (following the lunch rules and peanut free policy)
Correct Uniform
3. Parents must register child(ren) with State of Louisiana as a homeschooler(s).
4. If registering with Seton Home Study School, parents must administer all required
testing on homeschool days and complete and upload book reports.
QUARTERLY REPORTS
Ongoing communication with parents is vital to the success of Holy Family Core. At the end of each quarter a Quarterly Report will be handed out. Quarterly Reports will include students’ work habits, class behavior, etc. Parents are asked to copy, sign and return the Quarterly Report to the tutor.
ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
Parents will be notified if a student has significant difficulty understanding a concept. Working in partnership with the tutors, parents are responsible for reviewing and reinforcing concepts at home if needed. Some tutors may be available after class for additional tutoring. Rates are set and collected directly by the tutor. Tutors who schedule any after class assistance must first notify the HFHA Board of Directors.
PARENT-TUTOR CONFERENCES
Conferences provide tutors an opportunity to present parents with suggestions for complimenting the child’s work at home as well as giving parents the opportunity to express their observations and concerns, and to discuss with the tutor the uniqueness of each individual child.
Conferences, whether initiated by parent or tutor, must be scheduled outside of regular teaching hours. Tutors are not allowed to have a conference while on Lunch & Recess Duty. To schedule a conference with a tutor, please email the tutor requesting an appointment. Please do not attempt to discuss matters with a tutor before or after school
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without an appointment. A tutor’s time before class is limited and is used for immediate preparation and organization. The HFHA President/Vice-President will be notified of all parent-tutor conferences and may be invited to attend.
PARENT ON-SITE
It is mandatory that parents, with the exception of parents who are also employees, serve as the Parent On-Site in a 5-6 week rotation. Please see the Parent On-Site Schedule to view when you are assigned. For the safety of our students, a parent cannot bring other children, with the exception of nursing infants, on his/her assigned day. If a parent is unable to come on his/her assigned day, it is the responsibility of that parent to find a replacement and notify the HFHA Board of Directors.
The Parent On-Site must have a working, charged cell phone in the event that a parent or an emergency vehicle need to be called. Parents may also call the Parent On-Site to communicate any student pick-up changes.
Arrival Duty:
Arrive promptly at 8:30 a.m. A plastic container will be located in the K-1 classroom closet labeled “HFHA Parent On-Site”. In it you will find: a binder with all Staff & Student Medical Forms, Medicine Authorization Forms, Student Pick-Up Authorization Forms, Visitor Passes, a copy of the handbook, as well as the program’s first-aid kit. Please carry the container to the Parent On-Site desk, located at the intersection of the two hallways (see building map). Next, open the front door to the Catechetical Center (no earlier than 8:40 a.m.) and oversee student drop-off. At 8:50 a.m., close the door and proceed to the Parent On-Site desk. If any students arrive late, they should be walked in by a parent and proceed to their homeroom classroom.
Bathroom/Hall Monitor:
As bathroom/hall monitor, you are responsible for monitoring all students in the hall and bathrooms. Students should walk quietly to and from the restroom. As bathroom/hall monitor please be aware of who is entering the bathrooms. A student in the bathroom for more than 5 minutes should be checked on. No students should be in the hall or bathroom at any time without a hall/bathroom pass.
Visitor Passes:
All visitors, anyone who is not a tutor or student, must sign-in and receive a guest pass from the Parent On-Site. All visitors are required to show their driver’s license. If the Parent On-Site notices anyone in the halls without a pass and is with our program, they should be confronted. However, please keep in mind we share the building with the St. Benedict Parish Office; there may be people in the hall who are not associated with HFHA.
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Nurse:
The Parent On-Site desk is the designated area for sick or injured students and staff. The Parent On-Site will have a first-aid kit as well as a file containing all Staff and Student Medical Forms. If necessary, the Parent On-Site will call the student’s parent to be picked up. Sick students will wait with the Parent On-Site until picked up.
Dismissal Duty:
Between 1:10- 1:15 all students will proceed out of the classrooms and sit against the wall of the hallway. The tutor assistant will be on dismissal duty each day. The Parent On-Site will assist with dismissal by calling out the carline numbers on the cars in the front row. Once all students have been dismissed, please return the Parent On-Site container to the closet in the K-1 classroom.
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Student Information
WATER BOTTLES
Students are required to bring a reusable bottle (plastic or metal only, NO GLASS bottles) filled with water to class each day; other liquids are not permitted in classrooms. This will help limit the amount of trips to the water fountain and class interruptions.
UNIFORMS
Uniforms should display respect and modesty. Students should come to class neat, clean and well groomed.
Boys’ Uniform Grades K-7 White polo shirt or oxford & navy pants or shorts
Girls’ Uniform Grades K-3 White Peter Pan blouse & navy jumper
Girls’ Uniform Grades 4-7 White oxford or polo & navy skirt
Uniform Guidelines:
All jumpers and skirts must be knee length. Girls are recommended to wear
shorts/leggings under jumpers and skirts.
No midriff or low cut tops.
Shorts may not be more than 3” above the knee.
Jackets and coats cannot be worn in class.
Athletic shoes are recommended for daily wear. No slick soles or open toe shoes
allowed for safety reasons.
Socks and tights may be any length; solid colors only.
Hats are not permitted indoors.
Sweaters and sweatshirts must be solid colored w/no logos.
BACKPACKS & BELONGINGS
All students should transport their books to class in a backpack. Students in grades 4-7 should consider a roller backpack due to amount of books needed for class (optional).
All students’ belongings should be clearly labeled with the student’s last name. Student belongings include: books, lunch bag, backpack, sweaters/sweatshirts, jackets, etc.
STUDENT BADGES
All students are required to come to class with their student badge clipped to their shirt. Student badges will have the program logo, student’s first & last name and carline number printed on it. If a student loses a badge, they should email the HFHA Board of Directors to obtain a new one.
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STUDENT CONDUCT
In accordance with Catholic theology, some of the consistent habits students should strive for are: politeness, cheerfulness, reverence for God, order, responsibility, and respect for oneself and others.
Students are expected to be Christian in their words, attitudes, and actions toward all members of the Holy Family Core community and cheerfully obey the stated rules, handbook policies, and requests made by Holy Family Core staff. Students are expected to monitor their own behavior, to accept responsibility for the consequences of their actions, to correct inappropriate behavior, and to develop self-discipline.
Students should remain silent and orderly in the hallways when changing classes, going to the restrooms and going to lunch/recess. Students are not to disturb other classes. Accessories, gum, candy, cell phones, iPods (anything that draws unnecessary attention) are not allowed. Bullying, teasing, and other threatening behaviors will not be tolerated (see Policies pages 18-22).
STUDENT RESPECT
Students are expected to respect themselves and others. HFHA insists on obedience to and respect towards those in authority—tutors, assistants, parents, board members, pastor, parish staff and all volunteers. Speech and behavior should be such as to reflect favorably upon the home and the program, therefore good manners and consideration of others are to be observed at all times. Students are expected to use appropriate polite communication with adults, including greeting their tutors and saying “Please,” “Thank You”, “Yes Sir” and “Yes Ma’am.” They are expected to open doors for others and stop to help anyone in need of assistance. Proper respect must be shown for program/parish property and the property of others. Students are to leave bulletin boards, posters, and other displays intact and untouched. Writing or defacing of any nature on the buildings, walls, or other program/parish property—including textbooks and desks—will not be tolerated. Students defacing parish/program property or the property of others will be held responsible for the damage and face disciplinary action.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Students are expected to be active, productive, responsible participants in the teaching and learning process. Students should take care of the building and keep it as clean, neat, and functional as possible. Restrooms must be left clean after use. Students should clean up after themselves in the cafeteria and be willing to sweep, clean tables, take out the trash and stack chairs when necessary. Students should do their part to keep their classroom space—desks, shelves, tables, and “cubbies”—clean and neatly organized and the parish grounds clean and neat.
Students are expected to arrive to class with all books, a pencil case, a backpack, a lunch bag, student badge and the correct uniform.
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Policies
PEANUT-FREE POLICY
Due to a student with a life-threatening allergy to peanuts and peanut products, no peanuts or products containing peanuts are permitted on campus either in the building or on the grounds.
SICK POLICY
Please do not send a sick child to class. Students should be fever-free for 24-hours prior to returning to class. If a student has been vomiting or had diarrhea (due to illness) in the last 48-hours please keep him/her home. If someone in your family has the flu, stomach bug, or other highly contagious illness, please keep all students home. If a student becomes sick at Holy Family Core, the tutor will send the student to the Parent On-Site who will call the parent or other emergency contact on file.
In an effort to keep students & staff healthy hand sanitizer will be available in all classrooms. We recommend students wash their hands/use sanitizer immediately when they return home as well.
LICE POLICY
Lice are parasites of the human host; they are not known to transmit communicable diseases. Transmission usually occurs from person to person after direct contact with an infected individual. If a student is detected to have lice, the parent will be contacted and required to pick up the child.
If lice are found in the building, all parents and staff will be notified that lice have been detected and that they are to inspect their own children for evidence of head lice.
If a parent detects lice on his/her child’s head, the parent MUST notify the HFHA Board of Directors.
PHONE CALL POLICY
Unless an emergency arises, phone calls should be made before/after class, or during lunch, recess or planning. The use of cell phones to make or receive personal calls during class time is strictly prohibited. Staff will not be asked to take phone calls during instructional time unless an emergency occurs. Students are not allowed to have cell phones turned on while on campus. Students who bring cell phones on campus must keep them turned off and stored in their book bags. Students are not allowed to make phone calls on their cell phones during the program day except in an emergency. Students who use cell phones during class time will have them confiscated until a parent comes to retrieve them.
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ELECTRONICS POLICY
Electronics are not allowed in any student’s possession during HFHA hours. Electronics include, but are not limited to: iPods, mp3 players, tablets, Kindles, hand-held video games, etc. Any electronics found on a student while on campus will immediately be confiscated, whether in use or not. The Parent On-Site will keep the item until dismissal.
CANDY & CAFFEINE POLICY
Candy, including gum, and caffeinated drinks are not allowed to be consumed by students during Holy Family Core hours.
DISCIPLINE POLICY
The focus of discipline at Holy Family Core will always be to lead students to learn self-discipline and self-respect rather than simply to punish or penalize them. Students will be given the opportunity to accept responsibility for their actions and live with the consequences of their decisions. The purpose of discipline is four-fold:
1. To provide a classroom environment conducive to learning
2. To help students develop a sense of responsibility and self-control
3. To foster values and virtues as a Catholic, Christian community
4. To nurture the formation of conscience
Appropriate behavior interventions include, but are not limited to, any combination of the following:
Review of HFHA rules, policies and expectations
Moving the student to a different desk or table
Note home (to be signed by a parent)
Parental phone call
Parent-tutor conference
Staff and parents will work to encourage and inspire students to become their best selves, including positive follow-up with a student after he/she has incurred a consequence. However, a student with persistent disciplinary issues may be required to come to class accompanied by his/her parent until behavior improves, OR the below measures may be enforced.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS, PROBATION, SUSPENSION & EXPULSION
If a student violates the school rules and expectations, or acts in a way that is contrary to our mission, disciplinary consequences will be determined by the tutor and the HFHA Board of Directors.
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In grave situations, the following disciplinary actions may be enforced:
OFFICIAL DISCIPLINARY WARNING: An official warning will be given in grave situations or when a student’s behavior has not improved after enforcing the measures listed in the previous section. A student’s failure to improve behavior after a warning will merit Disciplinary Probation.
DISCIPLINARY PROBATION: Probation is a disciplinary procedure by which a student is evaluated by the tutor and the HFHA Board of Directors with regard to his/her attitude and behavior over a specified period of time. This procedure is followed in order to determine the student’s resolve to remain in the program.
TEMPORARY SUSPENSION: A suspension may be used if a student fails to cooperate with HFHA authorities or gravely violates the programs’ regulations. Any action that would endanger the student or another person or any action deemed by the HFHA Board of Directors to be contrary to the philosophy of Holy Family Core may result in suspension.
EXPLUSION: Expulsion is an extreme measure taken for certain acts that are flagrantly opposed to Christian behavior. Holy Family Core reserves the right to expel any student whose actions seriously impacts the safe and learning environment of the program in a negative manner. Expulsion is a disciplinary procedure by which a student is removed from the program indefinitely.
HARASSMENT POLICY
Holy Family Core does not condone any form of harassment. All staff, volunteers, parents and students are to be treated with Christian dignity and respect. Harassment in any form is prohibited. The prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all employees, volunteers, parents, students, parish staff, vowed religious and lay persons. Holy Family Core will not tolerate any form of harassment including:
• Sexual: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature
• Verbal: derogatory comments, jokes, or slurs, as well as belligerent or threatening words spoken to another person
• Physical: unwanted physical touching, contact, assault, deliberate impeding or blocking movements, and any intimidating interference with normal movement.
• Visual: derogatory, demeaning, or inflammatory posters, emails, cartoons, written words, drawings, novelties, and gestures.
Consequences of Harassment include:
formal apology immediate suspension
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possible loss of employment referral to the appropriate law enforcement agency regardless of the
recommendation of either the offended or offending parties any other action deemed necessary to resolve the issue by the HFHA Board
of Directors
GRIEVANCE POLICY
Authority as exercised in Holy Family Core depends in large measure upon a spirit of charity and willing cooperation among the HFHA Board of Directors, staff, parents, volunteers and students. However, honest disagreements can and sometimes do occur between personnel at various levels.
It is counterproductive and detrimental to the program, staff and students for anyone to engage in gossip regarding the program or staff. Anyone who has a question, problem, or concern must take the issue directly to the person(s) involved. Please do your best to resolve the issue with those most closely involved and with discretion.
It is assumed that all persons involved in a complaint situation will be attempting to find the simplest, most effective way to resolve differences. Normally, disagreements or complaints should be discussed and resolved at the level closest to the disputed question. For those instances when persons involved cannot reach an agreement that is mutually satisfactory, the HFHA President/Vice-President should be notified.
SEARCH & SEIZURE POLICY
If any staff member believes that a student is carrying a dangerous item on his/her person, they should ask the student for the item. (Dangerous items include but are limited to: pocket knives, multi-tools, bb guns, knives, toy guns, etc.) If the student refuses, the student can be asked to empty his/her pockets, backpack, purse, etc. If the student continues to refuse, the parent will be called to pick up the student from the program.
DRUG POLICY
The possession, use, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol is subject to disciplinary action. If a student brings to or from campus, or has in possession on parish grounds, before/during/after an HFHA sponsored event or during/after class hours, any illegal drugs or alcohol, look-a-likes, or paraphernalia, they are subject to disciplinary action which may include dismissal from the program.
If a student is found in possession of or distributing or selling alcohol or other illegal drugs, look-a-likes, or paraphernalia on the way to or from class, on campus, or before, during or after a class event:
1. The substance will be taken away from the student
2. Parent/guardian will be called to take the student home unless emergency help is necessary.
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3. The HFHA President/Vice-President will be notified and consulted.
4. A conference with the student, parent/guardian, and HFHA President/Vice-President will be scheduled.
5. Law enforcement authorities will be informed if necessary.
If staff suspects that a student may be using, distributing, in possession of, or selling illegal drugs or alcohol, the HFHA President/ Vice-President should be notified to discuss the situation and contact the parent/guardian. If a suspicion is confirmed, the program will follow its policies. If no evidence is found to support the expressed concern, the matter will be dropped.
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Building & Grounds Safety Keeping everyone in the program safe and secure is a top priority. For this reason, students and staff are instructed NOT to allow entry to anyone trying to enter a locked exterior door. All visitors must enter via the Catechetical Center main entrance.
• Tutors are to make sure that visitors to their classroom have an official HFHA Visitor Pass distributed by the Parent On-Site.
• Students must be issued a Bathroom/Hall Pass if they leave the classroom.
• The kitchen is not to be used by students or visitors.
• If a suspicious person and/or vehicle is discovered on the parish campus, notify the parish office immediately. If there is a clear and present danger, call 911 first and then notify the Parent On-Site.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Weather emergency drills will be taught and practiced at Student Orientation. A detailed floor plan is posted in every classroom, including the kitchen and cafeteria.
EMERGENCY KITS
Tutors are responsible for bringing the class emergency kits with them during all emergencies. Each emergency kit will be equipped with the class roster & a flashlight (w/batteries).
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Tutors will review safety procedures for fire, tornado or other severe weather situations with students at Student Orientation.
Fire: If the alarm sounds
All staff, volunteers and students will walk single-file out of the building via the nearest exit (refer to posted emergency drill map posted in each classroom) and meet at the field directly across from the Parent & Staff Parking Area.
Tutors are to take roll immediately
Remain quiet and calm.
Tornado: Tornado drill posture
All staff, volunteers and students should kneel with head and knees facing an interior wall, away from windows.
Bend head toward knees and clasp hands around back of neck
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Cover ears and side of face with arms.
Remain silent and calm.
CODE ALERT
In-house emergencies not related to fire, tornado, hurricane or earthquake may include an intruder or a suspicious person on campus or any situation that occurs in the building that is potentially dangerous. All staff are to take the following steps:
All doors and windows are to be closed and locked.
Move students to a position out of sight and away from doors and windows.
Classes meeting outside the regular classroom setting are to go to the closest secure room.
Any staff or volunteers not in a secured setting must seek the closest secure room that can be locked.
Tutors should take roll and maintain quiet and calm.
Doors should not be opened for anyone unless it is a student, a staff member/volunteer, HFHA Board Member or the police.
Contact the parish office ONLY if you have information relevant to the situation.
Any tutor who is outdoors with students or at the church will be contacted by cell phone and given specific instructions for the situation at hand.
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Staff Information
STAFF ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
All staff should arrive promptly at 8:30 a.m. The time to set up your classroom is limited before students begin to arrive; please always arrive prepared for class. Student drop-off begins at 8:40 a.m. Students will walk directly to their homeroom class. It is suggested that tutors have independent work ready for students to work on (i.e. math facts sheet/spelling/coloring) until classes begin.
Staff must remain in the building until 1:30 p.m. Classrooms should always be left in an orderly fashion.
MORNING PRAYER
Each day will begin with classroom prayer lead by the tutor. The following morning offering should be prayed together as a class:
O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys and sufferings of this day, in union with the holy sacrifice of the Mass throughout the World. I offer them for the intentions of your Sacred Heart, the salvation of souls, reparation of sin, and the reunion of all Christians. I offer them for the intentions of our bishops and of all apostles of prayer, and in particular for those intentions recommended by Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, for this month. Amen.
STAFF ABSENCES
All staff absences are unpaid. It is the responsibility of the tutor to call a substitute on days of absence. A list of substitute tutors will be given to all tutors. Tutors are required to give substitutes detailed lesson plans for the day.
STAFF LUNCH/RECESS/PLANNING PERIOD
Staff will receive 30 minutes of lunch/recess/planning time. Staff may not leave campus during this time. This period can also be used to work with a student if he/she is struggling in a subject and needs individual instruction (only if the tutor is not on Lunch & Recess Duty).
LUNCH & RECESS DUTY
Tutors will rotate on Lunch & Recess Duty; two tutors each day. All students should be walked to the cafeteria by the class tutor. Students and staff will say grace before lunch. Staff are asked to train students to put all trash in trash receptacles after lunch.
Weather permitting, lunch can be eaten outside on the picnic tables. Lunch & Recess Duty staff are responsible for monitoring all students and should establish and maintain rules for student behavior.
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Recess will be held in the field south of the picnic tables, away from the street and parking area. Below are several general rules to follow:
All recess equipment must be picked up by the students before returning to class.
Dodgeball, tackle football and other contact sports are not permitted.
Recess should start and end in a timely manner, so as not to interfere with class schedules.
Students should not enter the wooded areas or play near the street or parking lot.
Lunch & Recess Duty Staff Schedule:
*Staff are welcome to switch days if needed and mutually agreed by both parties, as long as two staff members are on duty at all times.
CLASSROOM CLEANLINESS & GENERAL CARE
Staff are responsible for doing their part to maintain a clean, neatly organized work environment. Tutors should complete the Classroom Clean-Up Checklist, provided by HFHA, to keeping the classroom clean and neat at all times:
1. Take out trash when full 2. Wipe desks/tables 3. Erase chalk boards 4. Pick up pencils, pens, paper, etc. from floors and work spaces 5. Push in chairs 6. Re-arrange tables if necessary 7. Turn off air/heat unit 8. Turn off lights
Food and drink must never be left overnight in classrooms.
Care must be taken not to damage the walls, doors, or windows with adhesives, nails, or other display materials. No one may alter the landscape or the interior of any classroom or work area without prior approval from the HFHA Board of Directors. No candles, hot plates/warmers, lamps, are permitted.
STAFF CODE OF CONDUCT
Staff are to maintain respectful, courteous and Christian behavior at all times. All staff are to be role models for their students. Therefore, all staff are to follow the HFHA rules, be models of professionalism and virtue and use confidentiality and discretion at all times, especially when students are present.
Monday Jamee & Patricia
Tuesday Donna & Mary
Thursday Angelle & Susan
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Specific conduct requirements for staff are as follows:
1. Be on time and be present in your work area at the designated times
2. Do not smoke in the presence of any student or staff member at any time on campus. If you smoke, you must do so on a scheduled break and out of view of students or staff. Cigarette lighters and cigarettes must be kept out of sight.
3. Be responsible. If you observe something that you feel should be reported, please report it to the HFHA President/ Vice-President. If you break something, damage something or lose something, notify the board.
4. Do not leave students unattended for any reason. Even if you are not assigned the duty of monitoring a student or group of students, if you observe students who are not supervised, you become the responsible party and must take on the supervisory role until the designated monitor is notified/located.
5. Do not fraternize or socialize with other staff members while in charge of teaching or monitoring the students.
6. Be a model steward. Share your time and talents whenever and wherever possible. Never ask or require of students what you are not willing to do yourself.
7. Be respectful to your colleagues at all times. Never engage in public arguments or disagreements.
8. Be familiar with your job requirements.
9. Always observe quiet in the halls and insist on the same from students and staff around you.
10. Demonstrate good conduct and manners to your students; always insist on proper etiquette from them.
11. Do not participate in the spreading of gossip/rumor, especially as they pertain to colleagues, parents, or students.
12. Confidentiality must be maintained in and outside the program. A student’s disciplinary infractions, learning challenges, and other private information may not be discussed or shared in any way with staff who do not teach the student. Staff will not discuss at any time any personnel or student conflicts, emergency situations, or confidential matters outside the program setting with parents and other members of the community. Breaches of confidentiality observed by other staff members must be reported to the HFHA President/Vice-President. Any confirmed breach of confidentiality will be subject to probation or other disciplinary action, including dismissal if seen fit by the HFHA Board of Directors.
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13. Treat students with respect at all times. Never criticize a student in front of classmates or others, or use punitive measures that are not in accordance with HFHA policy. Sarcasm, threats, and threatening gestures will not be tolerated.
14. Recognize your role in promoting Holy Family Core. Be loyal, positive and supportive of the program and its personnel, policies and procedures, as well as those of the parish. Most importantly, expect the same from those with whom you communicate and socialize.
15. Be positive! Smile! Support and compliment your students and colleagues whenever possible. Do your part to create a family atmosphere in the workplace.
16. As in any family, conflicts will arise. Be sure to handle them properly and seek help if needed. All conflicts should be communicated to the HFHA President/Vice-President.
STAFF DRESS CODE
All staff are expected to dress in a manner that reflects both their profession and modesty. Staff should also practice good hygiene and personal grooming habits. The following items are NOT to be worn by staff: jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sweat pants, sports clothing, flip flops, shorts/skorts and low-cut/revealing attire.
STAFF COMMUNICATION
The most important communication tools tutors have are: the opportunities that they create to make positive connections with parents and students; and the timeliness with which they make the communication. For these reasons, tutors are to:
Utilize email, post-it notes, and written comments on student’s work as frequently as possible to encourage students’ work and conduct.
Keep parents informed about student progress through notes and emails.
Set up a classroom distribution list on your email account that includes all of the email addresses of your students’ parents or via SchoolSync.
When a parent requests a meeting to discuss a child’s academic progress or behavior issues, tutors must notify, by email, the HFHA Board of Directors prior to any meeting that takes place. The HFHA President/Vice-President may be invited to attend the meeting.
The HFHA Board of Directors should be copied on all parent communications.
OUTDOOR CLASSES
Tutors are welcome to take their class outside if deemed appropriate. Tutors are required to notify the Parent On-Site before doing so. Staff members who are outside the building with their students should keep their cell phones turned on so the Parent On-Site or other staff can reach them if necessary.
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LESSON PLANS
All tutors are required to post a lesson plan for each day of the week. Lesson plans should be entered into the SchoolSync site no later than Monday at 5:00 p.m. each week so parents, students and the HFHA Board of Directors have access to them. If a tutor is consistently late in posting assignments, a meeting will be held with the HFHA President/Vice-President for a review of expectations.
QUARTERLY REPORTS
On the last class day of each quarter, Quarterly Reports will be passed out to all students. These reports will help ensure communication between parents and tutors. If a student is having significant difficulty in one or more areas, a parent meeting should be set with the tutor and parent.
ORIENTATION OF NEW EMPLOYEES
New staff members will meet with the HFHA Board of Directors to review policies and procedures.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
All staff are required to attend a Tutor Workshop prior to the beginning of classes. Tutors may also be required to attend an additional meeting mid-year to reassess the program.
SUBSTITUTES/SUBSTITUTE FOLDER
If a substitute is needed, the tutor must call the substitute to make arrangements. Lesson plans must be given to the substitute. An up-to-date Substitute Folder containing information about the schedule, class rules, and specific information regarding student and class procedures, as well as assigned morning or dismissal duties should be given to the substitute.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Only staff are allowed to adjust thermostats, not students. Please be mindful of the cost of heat/air. To help conserve energy, adjust your wardrobe to account for cooler temperatures in winter months and warmer temperatures in spring and fall.
STAFF TUITION
Tuition will be deducted from the salary of all staff members who have children in the program. The remaining salary balance will be spread over 10 monthly payments beginning September 1st and ending June 1st.
PAYCHECKS
Paychecks will be handed out or deposited by automated deposit on the 1st of each month in 10-monthly increments beginning in September and ending in June.
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COPYRIGHT LAWS
U.S. copyright laws prohibit photocopying of any copyrighted materials without permission. All staff are required to check all materials prior to copying to determine copyright status.
EMPLOYMENT FORMS
All staff members are responsible for filling out, signing and returning to the HFHA Board of Directors the following documentation:
Employment Agreement Insurance Form Staff Medical Form W-2 Direct Deposit Form, if desired
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Holy Family Core Parent, Student & Staff Handbook
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I have read the Holy Family Core Parent, Student & Staff Handbook, and I fully understand and agree to abide by the policies and procedures therein. I also understand that the HFHA Board of Directors has power to amend any items in this handbook at any time. Any changes to the handbook will be communicated via email to all registered participants and staff members.
Signature_________________________________Date ___/___/____
Please return this form to the HFHA Board of Directors by August 8, 2016